• MCM Roadshow: Kennedy Heights End of Summer Camp Event Celebration

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our 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.

  • MCM Roadshow: Black on State Event

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our 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.

  • Open Tuesday (special for August)

    We’re adding an extra day of play throughout August! The museum will be open every Tuesday this month, giving families more opportunities to visit their favorite exhibits, try out activities, and enjoy the last days of summer. Make your plans now for a special Tuesday outing!

  • Cabin Life: Quill and Ink

    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.

  • Music with Junebug

    Sing, stomp, and hop to the beat with Junko "Junebug" Yamauchi. These energetic, interactive sessions blend lively music, playful rhythms, and storytelling elements that spark imagination. Junko’s joyful energy builds connection, confidence, and community—all through the magic of music and movement. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

  • Free Thursday Evenings

    Free Thursday Evenings

    Madison Children's Museum 100 N. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI, United States

    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 […]

  • MCM Roadshow: YWCA Annual Block Party

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our 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.

  • Music with Junebug

    Sing, stomp, and hop to the beat with Junko "Junebug" Yamauchi. These energetic, interactive sessions blend lively music, playful rhythms, and storytelling elements that spark imagination. Junko’s joyful energy builds connection, confidence, and community—all through the magic of music and movement. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

  • Clay It Forward!

    Roll, shape, and sculpt with us on Friday afternoons! Join Art Studio staff to explore the magic of clay while creating pots, tiles, and shapes that will find a home here in the museum. It’s a hands-on way to leave your creative mark while learning the basics of ceramic art.

  • MCM Roadshow: YWCA RAINDATE

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our 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.

  • Live from the Wonderground: Shakey – A Neil Young Tribute Band

    Every month this summer, enjoy free concerts at MCM 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! Tonight we're welcoming Shakey, a Neil Young tribute band that captures the essence of Neil Young's […]

  • September Member Morning

    Start your weekend with a quiet hour of members-only playtime before the museum opens to the public! Sip complimentary coffee (while supplies last) and enjoy exploring exhibits in a relaxed setting without the crowds.Not a member yet? Join today—your membership starts immediately and gives your family unlimited free visits all year.

  • Early Explorers Playgroup (Saturday special)

    Join us for a special fall Saturday edition of our Early Explorers playgroup.  Get out of the house, play with some different toys, see new faces and meet new people! Best for ages under 2. 

  • MCM Roadshow: Urban Triage Harvest Festival

    We’re taking the museum on the road! At community events all around Madison, you can stop by our 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.