Parks
131 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Demetral Field2.5 mi from downtown
- Sycamore Park4.8 mi from downtown
- Reynolds Park0.7 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Madison
5 kinds of free outings in and around Madison.
Good days out in Madison don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Madison Public Library201 W. Mifflin St.
- Monona Public Library1000 Nichols Rd.
- Fitchburg Public Library5530 Lacy Rd.
Historic places
133 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Wisconsin State CapitolBuilt 1970
- Herbert and Katherine Jacobs First House
- Washburn ObservatoryBuilt 1881
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Leopold Wetland Management District31 mi north
- Horicon National Wildlife Refuge52 mi northeast
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail64 mi north
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Leopold Wetland Management District31 mi north
- Wisconsin River Islands32 mi north
- Horicon National Wildlife Refuge52 mi northeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Top 10 Things to Do in Madison, WI
A local activity Short shared by Destination Madison.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Free Things to Do in Madison, Wisconsin
A local activity Short shared by Samantha Angelie.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Madison?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Madison this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.