Open Wed–Sun 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get tickets
Calling all dinosaurs, princesses, monsters, bumble bees, skeletons, and kitty-cats: it's time to boogie! Join Abby for a Halloween-themed dance party that welcomes dancing of all kinds, from the monster mash to the zombie jamboree! Staff dress-up theme for the day: The Leftovers (Dress as food!) Costumes are welcome but never mandatory!
Spend your Saturday making something unexpected! School-age kids and older visitors can explore a changing mix of art materials, techniques, and creative challenges. Experiment with new ways to make art, solve problems as your ideas develop, and find inspiration alongside other artists. There’s no single right answer—just plenty of room to imagine, explore, and create.
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 dances, 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 museum admission.
Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dances, 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 museum admission.
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.
Launch into the world of creative engineering by designing and building your very own working pinball machine! Using simple materials like cardboard, clothespins, and cups, young inventors will craft custom ramps, launchers, and obstacles. They will test their machines, tweak the physics, and problem-solve to create high-scoring arcade action. Step right up and watch imagination […]
Celebrate creative ways to care for our planet at MCM’s Sustainability Fall Festival! Explore hands-on activities, meet community partners working toward a more sustainable future, and discover how everyday choices can make a difference. Across three days of playful programs, families can create, investigate, experiment, and find new ways to connect with the world around […]
Celebrate creative ways to care for our planet at MCM’s Sustainability Fall Festival! Explore hands-on activities, meet community partners working toward a more sustainable future, and discover how everyday choices can make a difference. Across three days of playful programs, families can create, investigate, experiment, and find new ways to connect with the world around […]
Create a planter for a succulent using upcycled materials. Plant a succulent to bring home and care for.
Madison Children’s Museum welcomes children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and sensory challenges to experience the museum during sensory-friendly hours, free of charge. This program aims to bring families together to learn through play in an environment that supports the unique needs of children with ASD. This program is free to all attendees! […]
Celebrate creative ways to care for our planet at MCM’s Sustainability Fall Festival! Explore hands-on activities, meet community partners working toward a more sustainable future, and discover how everyday choices can make a difference. Across three days of playful programs, families can create, investigate, experiment, and find new ways to connect with the world around […]
Unleash your imagination as you build a miniature haunted house filled with curious creatures and uncanny charm. This project blends nature, art, and storytelling in a tiny world you create. Build a house that’s mysterious, magical, creepy, or outlandish. There’s no single right answer—just plenty of room to imagine, explore, and create. Staff dress-up […]
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.
