Rainy days don’t have to put a damper on family fun in Madison! Whether your kids are looking for adventure, creativity, or a little bit of learning, this vibrant city offers a variety of indoor activities that will keep them entertained and engaged. From interactive museums to thrilling indoor play spaces, there’s something for everyone.
Check out these 20 of our favorite places in Madison to keep your kids happily occupied when the weather outside is less than perfect. Let’s dive into the fun!
You can also check out our Guide to Indoor Destinations in Madison for more ideas.
- What: An interactive museum filled with hands-on exhibits.
- Details: Kids can explore art, science, and nature-themed activities.
- What: A museum showcasing Wisconsin’s history.
- Details: Engaging exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
- What: A creative play space for young children. Programs revolve around active play and give children a safe and inspiring space to direct their energy, build confidence, and develop key skills.
- Details: Features imaginative play, gymnastics space, and even birthday parties.
- What: Family-friendly brewery tours.
- Details: While the adults learn about brewing, kids can enjoy non-alcoholic options and snacks.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Conservatory
- What: A beautiful indoor garden and conservatory, a tropical paradise year-round in Olbrich’s Bolz Conservatory. Stroll through a glass pyramid filled with exotic plants, bright flowers, a rushing waterfall, fragrant orchids and free-flying birds.
- Details: Explore exotic plants and a butterfly garden, perfect for nature lovers.
- What: Explore Children’s Museum is home to a wide range of both permanent and rotating exhibits specifically selected and curated to encourage imaginative play, creative thinking, and hands-on learning.
- Details: Engaging exhibits, opportunities for artistic expression, building and more.
Kohl Center Children and Youth Events
- What: Check for family-friendly sports and entertainment events.
- Details: Enjoy games or concerts that cater to kids and families.
Bubblers at the Madison Public Library
- What: Creative spaces for hands-on activities.
- Details: Offers art projects and storytelling sessions for all ages.
The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
- What: A museum featuring modern art.
- Details: Offers family workshops and interactive exhibits.
Indoor Pools and Swim Schools
- What: Swim and splash indoors.
- Details: Check out community centers like the Madison YMCA for family swim times or local swim schools like Goldfish Swim School or Swim West Swim School.
- What: Indoor amusement park.
- Details: Features trampolines, obstacle courses, and climbing walls.
- What: Indoor ice skating rink.
- Details: Public skating sessions are available for all skill levels.
- What: A sensory enrichment space designed to be a therapeutic and inclusive environment for kids of all abilities to play.
- Details: Get a play pass for The Zone and children of ALL ages can explore and have fun in all 6 play areas, including the sensory gym, foam pit, or climbing walls.
- What: Engaging science exhibits and activities.
- Details: Hands-on experiments and demonstrations for curious minds.
The Overture Center for the Arts
- What: Hosts various performances and art events.
- Details: Look for family-friendly shows, musicals, and concerts.
- What: Indoor sports facility.
- Details: Offers activities like soccer, basketball, and rock climbing.
The Fieldhouse at the University of Wisconsin
- What: Sports complex with various activities.
- Details: Check out their schedule for family-friendly events and sports activities.
Hello Art Hatchery Creative Reuse Center
- What: A creative reuse center.
- Details: Kids can engage in art projects using repurposed materials.
- What: Arcade and entertainment venue.
- Details: Offers games, dining, and fun for the whole family.
- What: Check for family art classes and workshops.
- Details: Engage in painting, pottery, and other creative projects.
With this list, you’re all set to turn a rainy day into a fun-filled adventure in Madison! No matter the age or interest, these indoor activities will keep your kids entertained and engaged, making even the gloomiest days bright.
