Things to do in Madison

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A street lined with historic buildings, including a restaurant named 'The Hammond Family Restaurant'.
A sign for the Nature Center, Trail 1, and Observation Tower.
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Things to do

Downtown Madison Sightseeing & History with Self-Guided Audio Tour

Downtown Madison Sightseeing & History with Self-Guided Audio Tour

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Downtown Madison Sightseeing & History with Self-Guided Audio Tour
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What to do in Madison

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Camp Randall Stadium

9.0/10 (1,067 reviews)
Camp Randall Stadium, the historic home of Wisconsin Badgers football since 1895, is the Big Ten's oldest stadium. Experience the electrifying "Jump Around" tradition as fans leap between the third and fourth quarters.
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Where to stay in Madison

Find the best Madison areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Madison
Learn more about Madison
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Downtown Madison

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Madison. A stop by Orpheum Theater or Overture Center for the Arts might round out your trip.

Campus Area

If you're spending some time in Campus Area, Memorial Union Terrace and Lake Monona Shoreline Run are top sights worth seeing.

Vilas

If you're spending some time in Vilas, Henry Vilas Zoo and Vilas Park are top sights worth seeing.

Monona Bay

Monona Bay might not have many top sights, but Kohl Center and State Street Shopping are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Schenk Atwood

If you're spending some time in Schenk Atwood, Barrymore Theatre and Olbrich Botanical Gardens are top sights worth seeing.

Popular day trips from Madison

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Middleton

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Fitchburg

Frequently asked questions

Is Madison worth visiting?
Known for its dining and culture, discovering fun things to do in Madison is easy. Remember to add Orpheum Theater to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Madison?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Willow Beach and James Madison Beach. Then, check out other parts of Madison for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Madison?
Don't go home without visiting Orpheum Theater, rated the top tourist attraction in Madison.
Is three days enough to stay in Madison?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Orpheum Theater, Chazen Museum of Art and Willow Beach with a three-day break in Madison. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and head to Middleton.
Is Madison a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to see and do in Madison. Several sights, including Orpheum Theater and Chazen Museum of Art, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Madison's best neighborhoods, Regent is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Marquette is 3 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Madison with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Madison with kids.

What to do in Madison for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Madison, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Wisconsin State Capitol or National Mustard Museum.
Are there free things to do in Madison?
In Madison, Chazen Museum of Art is a popular spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Madison.