Playgrounds
44 parks with a playground, closest to downtown first.
- Reynolds Park0.7 mi from downtown
- B.B. Clarke Beach Park0.8 mi from downtown
- Willy Street Park0.9 mi from downtown
Family
Things to do in Madison with kids
4 kinds of family outings, with the closest picks for each.
Family-friendly ideas around Madison, built from the city’s parks, libraries, local businesses and nearby public lands. Pick a section for the full list, a map and directions, and check the events calendar for this week’s story times, festivals and shows.
Libraries
Story times, homework help and summer reading, free with a library card.
- Madison Public Library201 W. Mifflin St.
- Monona Public Library1000 Nichols Rd.
- Fitchburg Public Library5530 Lacy Rd.
Picnic spots
Day-use areas for a family picnic.
- Wisconsin River Islands32 mi north
- Horicon National Wildlife Refuge52 mi northeast
- Grant River73 mi southwest
Wildlife and nature
Refuges and lakes to spot birds and animals.
- 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 is there to do in Madison with kids?
Playgrounds (44), Libraries (11), Picnic spots (13), Wildlife and nature (21). Each section links to the full list with maps and directions.
What can kids do in Madison for free?
Parks and playgrounds, library story times and many community events are free. See the free things to do and kids events pages for this week’s options.
What can families do in Madison when it rains or it’s hot?
Try the indoor ideas and the library, or check the kids and family events calendar.