Open Wed–Sun 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get tickets
We’re taking MCM on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our MCM Roadshow station to dive into hands-on maker activities, design a small take-home art project, and experiment with creative fort-building. Our traveling play station sparks curiosity, encourages problem-solving, and brings museum-style learning to local events. ------ Location: Orton […]
Enjoy free concerts at MCM the first Friday in July, August and September, featuring an eclectic mix of Madison bands. Adults get to dance and chat, kids climb and play, and caregivers enjoy low-stress social time in an outdoor space like no other! Live from the Wonderground admission is free! You may choose to provide a […]
Member-only time from 8-9am . Enjoy quieter times to enjoy the museum. Come before or after the farmers market for a perfect Madison morning! Enjoy coffee and treats as supplies last! Contributing support for MCM's Membership Program is provided by
What's in the air we breathe every day? Get ready to explore the science of breathing as we learn about Wisconsin air quality and how our lungs help keep us healthy through crafts, games, and interactive activities. Walk through giant lungs, spin a prize wheel, or enjoy a lively puppet show along the way. Come […]
BYOB: Bring Your Own Baby Got a baby? Haven’t seen a date night since the second trimester? Come to a stand-up comedy show made for exhausted grown-ups—where your baby is not only allowed, but basically the guest of honor. The BYOB Comedy Hour is coming to the Madison Children’s Museum on September 5, featuring a […]
Settle in for a special storytime that brings generations together. Eleanor Dougherty shares beloved picture books with young listeners in a warm, welcoming setting. This gentle program invites children ages 0–8 and their caregivers to connect through stories, imagination, and the simple joy of reading together.
Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dance parties, group games and balance activities, we’ll enjoy different opportunities to move our bodies every day. Program location is subject to change, depending on the weather. Please check our Welcome Wall for the most up-to-date location information. This event is free with general […]
Join us for an interactive circle time that includes songs, a puppet show, and a book reading that connect children to nature and kindness.
Explore the world of music and rhythm! Each week, Tim leads children in singing and other musical activities that inspire creativity and connection. It’s an engaging experience for kids and families—free with admission.
Do you have a dancing baby? Discover Junko's weekly music session where babies and toddlers can explore their natural love of rhythm. Together, you and your tiny dancer will bounce, sway, and rock with the music while learning simple rhythm patterns. They'll build critical social skills over the weeks as they interact with new faces […]
Join us for story time and hear Teresa read some of her favorite books using her DynaVox. With this speech-generating device, Teresa shares stories that help us build listening skills, develop early literacy, and celebrate each other’s differences. This event is free with general museum admission.
Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dance parties, group games and balance activities, we’ll enjoy different opportunities to move our bodies every day. Program location is subject to change, depending on the weather. Please check our Welcome Wall for the most up-to-date location information. This event is free with general […]
Take storytime to new heights! Join Paula Panczenko on the museum rooftop for a cozy read-aloud surrounded by fresh air, gardens, and views of our Capitol and the lake. Settle in, listen to engaging picture books, and enjoy stories together in one of MCM’s most unique spaces. Bring your imagination and discover where a good […]
Join MCM art educator Ms. Laurie for a weekly burst of color, texture, and joyful experimentation. Young children can freely explore art materials in a welcoming space designed especially for our youngest artists. It’s creativity without limits—or cleanup. Come make a beautiful mess with us! Free with general admission.
Uncover the hidden landscapes waiting right beneath your fingertips! Using a specialized colorful probe, young explorers will dive into mystery boxes to measure concealed terrain they can't see. By recording depth colors from point to point, kids will assemble their very own three-dimensional topographic map. Join us to transform simple observations into an exciting journey […]
