Discover the Stories of Wisconsin’s Heroes at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum
A Free, Family-Friendly Experience in the Heart of Downtown Madison
Looking for a meaningful and educational day out with your family? Step into history at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, located right on the Capitol Square. This free museum offers an inspiring journey through the past, showcasing how Wisconsinites—both service members and their families—have shaped our nation’s military history.
Every Veteran Is a Story
At the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, every exhibit tells a personal, powerful story. Through permanent and rotating exhibits, you’ll learn about the people behind the uniforms—from Civil War soldiers to veterans of modern-day conflicts.
Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the iconic UH-1 Iroquois “Huey” helicopter, which flew in Vietnam, and by artifacts ranging from Civil War battle flags to items from World War I, World War II, and beyond. The museum honors all branches of service and includes stories of both men and women who played vital roles in our nation’s defense.
Exhibits for Every Age and Interest
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19th Century Gallery: Step back into the Civil War and Spanish-American War with artifacts like battle-damaged flagpoles from Antietam and Gettysburg and Wisconsin’s Civil War battle flags.
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20th Century to Present Gallery: Discover Wisconsin’s role in World Wars I & II, Korea, Vietnam, and today’s conflicts. Listen to veterans’ stories in their own words, explore women’s roles in the military, and learn about our state’s Medal of Honor recipients.
Make It a Family Outing
The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is a great place to spark meaningful conversations with your children about service, history, and patriotism. Whether your kids are curious about the military or just enjoy exploring hands-on exhibits, they’ll come away inspired.
After your visit, take a stroll around the Square or grab lunch at one of the nearby family-friendly spots—making it a fun and full day downtown!
Plan Your Visit
Location: 30 West Mifflin Street, Madison, WI
Phone: 608-267-1799
Hours:
- Tuesday–Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
- Sunday (April–September): 12 PM–5 PM
Special Sunday hours in December
Parking:
Limited street parking is available nearby. We recommend the State Street Capitol Garage (214 N Carroll St), just a short walk from the museum.
Admission: FREE!
Whether you’re a lifelong Madisonian or just visiting for the day, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum is a must-see destination that brings history to life. Come honor the past—and discover how it connects us all to the present.
Learn more and view upcoming events at: www.wisvetsmuseum.com
