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
When the doors close to the public, the Girl Scouts' fun begins! Spend an exclusive evening exploring every corner of the Madison Children's Museum—from the underground wonders of Down Under to the fresh-air views atop the Rooftop Ramble. Get hands-on in favorite exhibits like the Wildernest, Possible-opolis, the Art Studio, Wonderground, and the icy-cool Nice […]
Transform a simple stick into a one-of-a-kind yarn-wrapped figure. Choose your colors and personality—will your figure be a superhero, a sprite, or a stylish nature explorer? This creative challenge builds fine motor skills while sparking storytelling and imaginative play.
Turn imagination into architecture! Use wood blocks, fabric, buttons, beads, and more to build your own whimsical, mixed-media house sculpture. Whether it’s a fairy cottage, robot apartment, or treehouse with a twist, this open-ended art adventure encourages creativity through construction and storytelling.
Step into the world of kamishibai—a traditional form of Japanese picture storytelling! Enjoy lively tales, sing along to simple songs, and play group games that bring the stories to life. Join us for a magical cultural experience perfect for young learners and curious imaginations. Included with museum admission.
Explore the world of music and rhythm! Each week, Tim leads children in singing, rhythm games, and musical stories that inspire creativity and connection. It’s an engaging experience for kids and families—free with admission.
Through fun, movement-based games and challenges, children strengthen hand-eye coordination, balance, and core muscles without even noticing—they’re too busy playing! With new activities each session, this playful program supports physical development and joyful learning through active exploration. Let’s get moving!
Watch ink swirl and dance as you create a mini tile masterpiece using vibrant alcohol inks. With a few drops and a swirl, you’ll reveal mesmerizing patterns that are totally your own. It’s color-mixing meets chemistry, with results that are part science, part magic, and all you!
Snuggle in for a delightful mix of stories, puppets, and songs! This trail-side program invites young children to explore emotions, rhythm, and imagination through movement and mindful moments. Grown-ups welcome, too—this is a peaceful pause for the whole family.
Explore the world of music and rhythm! Each week, Tim leads children in singing, rhythm games, and musical stories that inspire creativity and connection. It’s an engaging experience for kids and families—free with admission.
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.
Visit MCM for free every Thursday evening, 4–8 pm! Enjoy extended hours each Thursday, completely free of charge. Please check in at the admissions desk when you visit during free hours. Looking for more affordable ways to visit? During the rest of the week, MCM offers reduced cost admission and memberships every day to families […]
Join our friends from the UW Neuroscience Training Program outreach team for brain-building activities and interact with REAL neurological specimens. Come learn how we think!This program is part of our Free Thursday Evenings, 4 pm to 8 pm each week.
Enjoy exclusive, members-only playtime in the museum before things get busy! Enjoy complimentary coffee to accompany the calm, crisp morning (while supplies last.) Not a member yet? Become one today! Membership starts immediately, so you can visit for free anytime the museum is open. Learn more about membership.
Snuggle in for a delightful mix of stories, puppets, and songs! This trail-side program invites young children to explore emotions, rhythm, and imagination through movement and mindful moments. Grown-ups welcome, too—this is a peaceful pause for the whole family.
Explore the world of music and rhythm! Each week, Tim leads children in singing, rhythm games, and musical stories that inspire creativity and connection. It’s an engaging experience for kids and families—free with admission.
