Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
Capture the calming scents of the season. We’ll use herbs harvested from our garden to create sweet-smelling sachets, just like folks did long ago. Hang yours to dry at home and enjoy a little museum magic every time you catch a whiff.
Shake, churn, and spread! Kids help turn cream into butter just like early settlers did—then taste the results on a crunchy cracker. A perfect blend of history, movement, and taste—and a delicious way to get hands moving and minds curious. Ideal for kids ages 2–12.
Breathe in the scent of fresh herbs and feel the textures of petals and stems as you weave a one-of-a-kind botanical creation. This nature-based activity encourages fine motor skills and close observation. Ideal for ages 3–12 and anyone who loves mixing art with the outdoors.
Practice patience, coordination, and creativity as you build your own beaded bracelet or necklace—just like kids might’ve done long ago. This calming, hands-on activity is ideal for children ages 3–12. Come string a little history together!
3... 2... 1... Blast off with some out-of-this-world rocket science! Launch your very own air-propelled rocket from the Rooftop Ramble. How many fins fly the farthest? Does your rocket need a nose cone? Test out different features and see how high your designs can fly. This event is free with general museum admission.
Join the hottest party in town—MCM's Baby Beach Party! Babies and toddlers take over the Wonderground for an evening of fun in the setting sun. Enjoy summertime activities just for littles, including taste-safe sand, splashin' in the water (don't forget a change of clothes!), adorable footprint craft, and a sing-along! Cool drinks will be available, but […]
Drop by for hands-on fun at the museum’s favorite maker station! Each session features a new activity designed to spark curiosity and creativity—ranging from art projects and nature crafts to beginner-friendly STEM explorations.Perfect for ages 3–12, with plenty of room for grown-ups to join in. No two visits are the same!
Drop by for hands-on fun at the museum’s favorite maker station! Each session features a new activity designed to spark curiosity and creativity—ranging from art projects and nature crafts to beginner-friendly STEM explorations. Perfect for ages 3–12, with plenty of room for grown-ups to join in. No two visits are the same!
No screens, no batteries — just classic fun! Today's program relocates from the Log Cabin to the Celebrations Room due to weather. Try out classic games from many time periods and cultures. Families are welcome to join in. Ideal for kids ages 3–12.
Before refrigeration, families had to get creative to keep food all winter long. Let's explore how people in the past dried herbs and fruit to prepare for the cold months ahead—and then sample some sweet pears from our rooftop orchard! This tasty, hands-on program blends science, storytelling, and seasonal fun for the whole family.
Before ballpoint pens and touchscreens, writing meant dipping a feather into ink brewed from walnuts. Visit the cabin to learn how early Wisconsinites recorded their thoughts and letters—and make your own old-time bookmark with quill and ink. Perfect for curious kids and nostalgic grownups alike.
Turn pedal power into tasty salsa! Hop on our bike blender and help whirl together garden-fresh veggies grown on the museum’s rooftop. When the salsa’s ready, stick around for a sample and taste the results of your hard work. It’s science, fitness, and flavor rolled into one delicious Exploration Station experience!
Mark International Kids for Peace Day with a celebration of creativity and connection. A half-hour Suzuki violin performance kicks off the morning, followed by a community art-making experience where kids can arrange garden cuttings into a beautiful, large-scale mandala on our garden rooftop. You can also search for peace in the Wonderground, and make peace […]
Celebrate Worldwide Day of Play at Madison Children's Museum on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Find brand new ways to play in the Wonderground, bring your crawler and connect with other parents, and let your creativity flow in the Art Studio! Featured Activities Early Explorers Playgroup: Saturday Special, 10:30 am–12:00 pm on the Rooftop Ramble Saturday […]
Create your very own pet rock! Customize your pet by giving it their own name, personality, and style! Then take your pet home to live with you!
