Are you searching for creative and engaging activities for your artistic kids in Madison? From preschoolers to adolescents, the vibrant arts scene in Madison offers a plethora of opportunities for young artists to explore their creativity. Whether it’s hands-on workshops, interactive exhibits, or outdoor art festivals, there’s something to ignite the imagination of every child.
We are excited to highlight our 8 favorite artistic activities and events in the Madison area, providing parents with a guide to inspire their kids and foster their love for art. Let’s explore the artistic adventures waiting for your family in this beautiful city!
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
Located adjacent to the Overture Center for the Arts, the MMoCA is a free admission destination for the local art-lover. There are lots of events for musically-inclined kiddos next door, so this is the perfect opportunity to nurture the creative mind in new ways.
- What: Family-friendly exhibitions and art activities.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Check for family workshops and interactive art days throughout the year.
Monroe Street Arts Center
By providing high-quality private and group instruction to all ages, Monroe Street Arts Center is keeping the door open for a lifetime of creative expression and appreciation of the arts. MSAC is a welcoming, inclusive environment where we come together to learn, make, and share music and art.
- What: A community art studio offering classes and workshops.
- Ages: Preschool to adults.
- Details: Offers various classes in painting, mixed media, music, and so much more, all tailored to different age groups. They even offer “Day Off Classes” for the days when school isn’t in session!
Chazen Museum of Art
Open daily and always free! The beautiful Chazen Museum of Art is located squarely in the heart of the UW-Madison campus, making it the perfect stop for a fun day out in downtown Madison. There’s also a café inside, offering a wide selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and lunch items.
- What: Free admission and special family programs.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: The museum hosts family art-making events and workshops related to their exhibitions.
Bubbler at the Madison Public Library
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library is an ever-growing network of people and ideas, fostering community through art and hands-on learning. Resources are available for budding artists of a variety of ages as well as for educators, librarians, community leaders, parents and caregivers, and more.
- What: A creative space offering hands-on art and design projects.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Features workshops on various art techniques and encourages exploration and creativity.
Madison Children’s Museum
The Madison Children’s Museum is a vibrant and engaging space, bursting with chances to play and learn: to stretch bodies and minds, solve problems, create art, make friends, and, most of all, have fun
- What: Interactive exhibits and art-making stations.
- Ages: Preschool to early adolescents.
- Details: Offers art activities that change with the seasons, including nature-inspired crafts.
Local Art Festivals
As everyone in Madison knows, we certainly know how to do a city festival to the max. There will almost always be local artists present at city festivals, but there are two that are really perfect for art-lovers of all ages – Art Fair on the Square and the Winter Art Fair Off the Square.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Family-friendly activities often include art-making stations where kids can create their own pieces.
Bucky on Parade
Bucky Badger sure likes to make his presence known around town! There are dozens of statues of our beloved mascot all over the city, many in beautiful landmarks like the State Capitol and the UW-Madison campus.
- What: A walking tour of public art installations of Bucky Badger, displayed throughout the city.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Explore Madison’s artistic side while getting some fresh air—kids can “collect” their favorite Buckys along the way, while enjoying the fun places the statues are found, including the free Henry Vilas Zoo!
Public Murals
There’s no doubt that we live in a beautiful city. And thanks to local artists, our city has even more charm, character and beauty. We love to explore and today we are featuring some of our favorite murals throughout Madison, WI! Check out THIS LIST of our favorites and where to find them.
These activities provide a wonderful array of options for nurturing creativity and artistic expression in kids, ensuring that families in Madison can enjoy a variety of enriching experiences together!
