Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Madison

"Botanical Gardens3330 Atwood Avenue Madison, Madison, WI 53704MoreLess Info. Voted as one of the top ten inspiring gardens in North America, Olbrich Botanical Gardens provide beauty and peace. With over 16 acres of gardens to see, visitors get their fill of exotic plants and appealing landscapes."

"Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a stunning 16-acre outdoor garden display that features an incredible mix of hearty Midwest plants and colorful tropical greenery. Every season offers something new to see. Stop by in the spring to check out the blooming bulbs."

"Located in 2 East Main Street, the Wisconsin State Capitol is one of the many marvelous landmarks that Madison is famous for. Its dome-shaped structure is an architectural wonder in itself, and lots of tourists make sure to have a picture with it while in the city. Home to the governing pillar of Wisconsin, including the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the office of the governor, Wisconsin State Capitol offers guided tours for scholars, academics, and interested parties through the Capitol Visitor Center."

"As Madison is the state capital of Wisconsin, you can’t visit here and not see the State Capitol building in all its glory. The Wisconsin State Capitol is conveniently located near to Madison’s gorgeous lakeshore in the downtown area of the city, so you can also explore this area on foot at the same time. The building dates from 1917 and is topped with a majestic 284 foot dome which rivals Washington’s State Capitol."

"This Roman Renaissance-style capitol would leave you in awe as soon as you enter. The building itself is really beautiful with magnificent architecture. Also, the tour is very informative."

"The UW Arboretum is officially known as the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. It spans about 1,260 acres and offers you at least 20 miles of hiking trails."

"Allen Centennial Garden is based on the grounds of the Horticulture Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and serve as an outdoor classroom for students and the public alike. The Gardens surround the historic Dean’s Residence, home of the first four Agricultural Deans of the University and act as a living laboratory for visitors of all ages. The Allen Centennial Gardens offer several internships and educational classes, including ‘The Outdoor Display’, where the intern maintains herbaceous and woody plants in various sections of the Gardens and the ‘The Public Garden Leadership’, where the trainee learns about the management of a public garden/cultural non-profit organization."

"This two and a half acre garden serves as an outdoor horticultural classroom. Located on the UW Madison Campus, the garden boasts a vast array of styles including rock, water, Italian, English, daylily, ornamental shade, Wisconsin woodland and many more. Whether you come to brush up on your plant identification or simply to enjoy the serene beauty of this space, the Allen Centennial Garden is the perfect spot to spend a sunny afternoon."

"Allen Centennial Gardens is a combination outdoor teaching garden for the Horticulture Department of the University of Wisconsin-Madison as well as a public garden. The gardens are open 365 days every year and are spread over 2.5 acres."

"If you’re searching for a place that’s easily accessible but still feels hidden and out of the way, then visit the cliffs located within Wally Bauman Woods. The vantage point is secluded and looks out onto the beautiful scenery of Lake Mendota. If you’re looking to seek out a little more thrill from this location, there are pathways that branch off to the right of the lake and lead to cliffs that are suitable for cliff diving and a rope swing that reaches out over the water."

"Lake Mendota is one of Madison’s larger lakes, offering beautiful, unblemished shorelines and a great spot to enjoy the outdoors. There are multiple beaches and well-kept parks, as well as outstanding opportunities for boating and fishing. Take a casual stroll along the shore, enjoy a picnic, or lay in a hammock as the sun goes down – you won’t regret it."

"You will still have a lot of activities to do here regarding the season. You can go boating during summer and ice skating or ice fishing in winter. A nice place to spend time with family or friends."

"Address: 3527 Atwood AvenueRestroom: YesDrinking Water: YesParking: Parking LotAmenities: Boat Ramp, Canoe/Kayak Rental, Concessions, Picnic Tables, Volleyball. Swim Ropes: YesLifeguard: No"

"Westmorland Park is a neighborhood park with several interesting activities to enjoy. You can play a game at the tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court, or softball field. Kids love the large playground in the park, and the rock garden is a fun place to take a stroll."

"Located on Madison's near west side, Westmorland Park features a rock garden, reservable shelter, large playground, volleyball court, tennis courts and softball..."

"A post shared by Cafe CODA (@cafecodamadison) on Apr 27, 2019 at 1:31pm PDT. Turn your boring night into a jazz party by checking out the vibes at the fantastic Cafe Coda on 1224 Williamson Street. It is a lovely jazz bar with romantic vibes and friendly ambiance."

"For a sunlit, atmospheric setting, head to the Aldo's Cafe, which is in the more central side of campus inside the Discovery Building. They have lots of healthy options food-wise such as their Quinoa Bowl or Steel-Cut Oatmeal. As a bonus, they also accept Red Card."