Madison Children's Museum
A vibrant, 3-story museum with interactive exhibits, an innovative outdoor play space, and a community-focused cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Madison Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, 3-story museum with interactive exhibits, an innovative outdoor play space, and a community-focused cafe.
"Absolutely in love with this place! So much to do for children of all ages!"
Pack for the Wonderground
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing and exploring the outdoor Wonderground.
Check for Deals
Look for Groupon deals on admission to save money on your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wonderground Outdoor Play Area
Outdoor space
An innovative, multi-level climbing structure made from natural tree elements, offering endless exploration.
Pay-What-You-Can Cafe
Ground floor cafe
Affordable and accessible food options for every budget, ensuring no child goes hungry.
Art Studio & Creation Stations
Various exhibit areas
Engage in hands-on art projects, from painting to sculpting, fostering creativity for all ages.
Rooftop Animals
Rooftop
Meet live chickens, reptiles, and fish on the rooftop, a delightful surprise for curious minds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Wonderground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Wonderground
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing and exploring the outdoor Wonderground.
Check for Deals
Look for Groupon deals on admission to save money on your visit.
Embrace the Art Areas
Don't shy away from the art stations; bring old clothes if you plan on painting!
Utilize Lockers
Free bins and lockers are available to store your belongings while you explore.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Wonderground
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing and exploring the outdoor Wonderground.
Check for Deals
Look for Groupon deals on admission to save money on your visit.
Embrace the Art Areas
Don't shy away from the art stations; bring old clothes if you plan on painting!
Utilize Lockers
Free bins and lockers are available to store your belongings while you explore.
Kid-Friendly Food
The cafe offers kid-approved meals and a 'pay what you can' option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Madison Children's Museum for its innovative outdoor 'Wonderground,' inclusive 'pay-what-you-can' cafe, and engaging art activities. While some feel it's best for younger children (2-5), the unique features and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for families. Some areas could benefit from a refresh, but the overall experience is positive. +1
"I feel like my kids (ages 7 & 10) were just a little old for this museum. Some areas could have benefitted from a good scub. My daughter liked the crafting area but better scissors would be a nice addition. The paint plexiglass area was cool, I didn't notice any smocks so my kids didn't participate. The outdoor space was nice. There is a multi-level climbing structure that my son enjoyed. We stayed for about 2 hours, my kids just didn't love it. It's great for kids ages 2-5."
Lianne Wojtanek
"Welcoming staff. The views from the rooftop are wonderful. The wonderland backyard was endlessly entertaining and the climbing structures were well thought out. Some many recycled elements included added artistic flair. Easy parking, inexpensive too."
Kevin Bergeson
"Absolutely in love with this place. Husband and I visited from NYC and my sister, who lives in Madison, recommended the museum for our toddler. There's so much to do for children of all ages! Playgrounds, of course, but also crafts areas, places to experiment, to read, learn, and explore. I was pleasantly surprised to see that food was available on a "pay what you can" basis, so there is literally food for every budget even if your budget is $0. The food options were very kid friendly, and my kid devoured cheese sticks, watermelon slices, and a fig bar. A microwave was available to heat a Mac and cheese option that was also seen available in the fridge. The museum was clean and so well cared for. A side note: when using the bathroom I saw a toilet positioned closer to the ground for potty trained kids to easily access as well as an adult sized changing table for visitors who need it. This kind of inclusivity was very nice to see."
Raminess
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Madison, Wisconsin. Parking is available nearby and is generally inexpensive. Public transportation options are also available.
Yes, there is parking available near the museum, and it's noted as being inexpensive.
Madison has a public bus system that can take you to the downtown area where the museum is located. Check the local transit authority for routes and schedules.
The museum is designed with families in mind and is generally stroller-friendly, with elevators to access different floors.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Madison Children's Museum website for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any special closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are reasonable, and it's recommended to check their website for current rates. Keep an eye out for potential deals on platforms like Groupon.
Yes, look for deals on Groupon for discounted admission tickets.
It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for online ticket purchasing options to save time upon arrival.
Yes, the museum occasionally hosts 'Adult Swim' nights, offering a kid-free experience for adults to enjoy the exhibits.
The museum offers a 'pay what you can' option for food at their cafe, making meals accessible to everyone regardless of budget.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the outdoor 'Wonderground' climbing structure, the art studio, the rooftop animals, and the interactive exhibits on different floors. +1
Absolutely! The 'Wonderground' is a unique, nature-inspired outdoor play space with ramps and climbing structures.
While fun for many ages, it's particularly great for children aged 2-5. Older children might find some exhibits a bit young, but the outdoor area and art stations are still engaging.
Yes, there's a cafe with kid-friendly food options, including a 'pay what you can' program.
The museum offers accessible restrooms with changing tables and lower toilets for children, as well as lockers for storing belongings.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disturb exhibits or children.
The 'Wonderground' outdoor play area, the rooftop animals, and the colorful art stations offer great photo opportunities.
Weekday mornings often have softer lighting and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing clear photos.
Always check for any specific signage regarding photography, especially in areas with sensitive exhibits or live animals.
Short videos for personal use are usually fine, but for commercial or professional filming, you'll likely need to contact the museum for permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children (Ages 2-5)
The pay-what-you-can cafe is a lifesaver for parents needing convenient and affordable meal options. 👨👩👧👦 Families with Older Children (Ages 6-10)
The art studio and other interactive stations provide creative outlets. The rooftop animals are a unique attraction that appeals to a wide age range. 🧑🏫 Educators and School Groups
Exhibits focus on creativity, discovery, and engagement, making learning fun and memorable. The 'Adult Swim' nights also offer a unique opportunity for educators to experience the museum in a different context. 🧑🤝🧑 Adults Seeking a Unique Experience
Plus, the pay-what-you-can cafe offers a chance to relax and refuel while appreciating the museum's community-focused mission. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wonderground: Nature Meets Play
It's a testament to sustainable design and offers a unique, multi-level environment for children to explore and challenge themselves physically. The natural materials and organic shapes create an immersive experience that sparks imagination and encourages active engagement. Visitors rave about the thoughtful design of the Wonderground, noting how it caters to different climbing experiences and skill levels. It's not just a playground; it's an architectural piece that encourages children to interact with their environment in a creative and adventurous way. The use of recycled elements also adds an artistic flair, making it an educational as well as a fun space.
Inclusive Dining: The Pay-What-You-Can Cafe
This commitment to food accessibility is a significant draw for families, as noted in reviews. It demonstrates a thoughtful approach to visitor experience, recognizing that a museum visit should be enjoyable and stress-free for everyone. The availability of a microwave and kid-approved options makes mealtime convenient and enjoyable for even the pickiest eaters.
Creative Exploration: Art and Discovery
Beyond art, the museum provides spaces for order discovery and creation enjoying, as experienced by first graders on a field trip.
Exhibits are designed to be interactive and educational, allowing children to learn through play. Whether it's exploring robotic control and programming or engaging with water tables, there are diverse avenues for children to satisfy their curiosity and develop new skills. The museum's commitment to hands-on learning makes it an enriching experience for young minds. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit