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
As voted by visitors in our kids-only election: the Lunchbox will offer a Cereal-for-Dinner service every third Thursday of the month! Cereals featured will be Frosted Flakes, Cheerios, and granola. Cow's milk and oat milk will also be provided. Crunch to your heart's content, as long as supplies last!
Explora el otoño a través de arte con hojas, historias y manualidades familiares. Celebrate fall with leaf crafts, stories, and hands-on family fun. Tendremos actividades bilingües para explorar los colores y sonidos de la temporada. Enjoy bilingual activities inspired by autumn’s colors and sounds.
Back for its eighth year, the ever-popular Science on the Square event offers free science demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout Downtown Madison as part of the Wisconsin Science Festival. Join us for drop-in science fun from 5-8 pm, with activities led by: Wisconsin Center for Origins Research: Exploring Exoplanets UW Chemistry Department—Alpha Chi Sigma Wisconsin […]
This playgroup is expertly designed for our earliest visitors. We will provide a space for infants and toddlers (2 years and under) and their caregivers to explore and play together, and engage in unstructured play that supports various aspects of child development. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with one another over […]
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.
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.
Turn craft sticks and rubberbands into musical magic! In this STEAM-forward activity, kids will build their own instrument and explore how vibrations turn into sound. It’s all part of the Wisconsin Science Festival’s “Rock and Roll” theme—linking the science of Earth and the science of music in one joyful noise.
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.
Little monsters take over the museum at our members-only Halloween bash! Step into your silliest costume and celebrate the spirit of the season with frightfully fun activities and (free!) light refreshments, courtesy of MCM. This event is for current museum members only. Registration is $10 per family (after MCM member discount.)
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.
Unearth ancient mysteries in this spine-tingling science adventure! Kids will create their own fossil impression while discovering how rocks preserve creatures from millions of years ago. Plus, meet the trilobite—Wisconsin’s state fossil and a real-life prehistoric critter! This activity is part of the Wisconsin Science Festival, celebrating the wonders of geology and deep time.
Unleash your imagination as you build a miniature scene filled with curious creatures and uncanny charm. Our “terrorium” project blends nature, art, and storytelling in a tiny world you create. Kids can build a diorama that’s mysterious or magical—whatever feels just right. All materials provided, and free with 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.
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.
