Known famously for a big party and drinking culture, some Wisconsinites pride themselves on that fact. Slogans like “Drink Wisconsinbly” and the general attitude towards it in the state can be difficult to avoid. However, there are plenty of fun things to do in the capital city of Madison that do not require an ID. There’s something for everyone, including art, sports, comedy, and even dinosaur fossils!
Here’s a list of 21 things you can do, see, and experience while under 21 in Madison.
1. Comedy on State
Get a good laugh to make it over the midweek slump at Comedy on State. Located a little more than a block away from the State Capitol, Comedy on State lives in the heart of downtown. No minors are allowed, but people ages 18 and up can see a great set nearly any day of the week. See some critically acclaimed comedians on their national tours. Or, pop in on Wednesday where you’ll never know what you’ll get during open mic.
“Go to the comedy club! It’s called Comedy on State and they have an open mic every Wednesday for only a $5 entrance fee. It’s 18+, and it’s always a good place to bring some friends for a night out that doesn’t necessarily need to involve drinking,” University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Augustus Schrader said.
Yuk it up by yourself or with friends, no alcohol necessary! With an affordable entrance fee, Comedy on State can be accessible to everyone. Attending a comedy show, while unique and different each time, would be well worth checking out at least once. Or for the brave souls, try your hand at live comedy during open mic night. Everyone with all types of humor are welcome at Comedy on State.
2. Badger Games
A to-do on every Badger’s bucket list: see Wisconsin teams play at Camp Randall and the Kohl Center. With no legal ID required, all ages are invited to “jump around”. Show your school pride for some of the best college sports teams in the country. There are games all year round, so don’t miss out. Even when the Badgers aren’t playing, swing by to support other local teams.
“If you’re a sports person, take advantage of whatever sports games the Badgers are playing. Not just the Badgers, but Forward Madison FC, Madison Capitols, etc. It’s always a fun time in my experience. There’s always something more to do than just watching the game no matter the result, whether it’s activities in the stadium/arena, the places that are nearby, or in general interacting and fueling the energy of the people,” University of Wisconsin-Madison junior Kevin Felix said.
Be a part of the tight-knit community at a Badger football game. Fans take “Jump Around” literally. Fans jump so much it can be measured on the Richter scale for earthquakes. Don your red and white and watch Bucky the Badger do a push-up for every point earned by Wisconsin. Or head to the Kohl Center for an intense and high-energy game of basketball or volleyball. Any game you see on the UW campus is sure to be a blast.
3. Dane County Farmers Market
Are you interested in fresh food and supporting the local Madison community? Look no further than the Dane County Farmers Market! Located conveniently near the steps of the state capitol, anyone can check out the large selections. People of all ages can browse and stock up on their favorite fresh fruits and veggies. And for those who can’t make it during the daytime hours, they also have hours in the evening.
“The farmers and night markets on state by the capitol are super cool to check out and have some great food,” University of Wisconsin-Madison junior Claire Foote said.
Sometimes college students are limited in what food they can eat, often settling for dining halls and frozen dorm room snacks. The Dane County Farmers Market offers fresh and varied foods. You won’t be stuck with just pizza rolls and ramen noodles anymore. Support local farmers and businesses as you shop. Walk or bike through and see the amazing selections!
4. Kayak on the Lakes
Situated on an isthmus, Madison has many activities centered around the two lakes. Students and the general public can get out and enjoy the outdoors without being far from the city. No need to be 21 to have fun on Lake Monona or Mendota. Rent a kayak or canoe from Madison Boats and paddle as you see the city from a new perspective. Or set sail with the Wisconsin Hoofers, one of UW-Madison’s oldest student orgs.
“Lake activities (kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, etc.) through Madison Boats or Hoofers. A little expensive but worth it once or twice for the gorgeous views,” University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Joey Thomas said.
Get some exercise and sunshine to help relax after a long study day. Visit one of the many access points to the lakes and try your hand at rowing. Spend your time floating on the lakes as you take in the sound of the water Whether you choose a kayak or a paddleboard, a loop around either of the lakes makes for an amazing experience. And, no legal ID is required to enjoy the water.
5. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
With 16 acres of outdoor gardens and a large indoor conservatory, anyone can enjoy the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Located on the east side near the edge of Lake Monona, the gardens are well worth a day trip. See more than 650 unique plants and flowers throughout your trek. Go alone or bring a friend to walk through more than 15 distinct meadows and prairies on the campus. They even have some rare flowers that don’t bloom very often, making for a unique experience.
“Olbrich Gardens is magical, especially the two story glass conservatory. Never seen anything like it. Excellent date spot too,” University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate Paul Buttles said.
You can literally stop and smell the roses at Olbrich. They offer more than just wonderful scenery. Sign up for a guided walk, a watercolor painting workshop, or a yoga session among many others. And, depending on when you go, they have various art installations set up throughout the year which can make for a different experience each time you go. There’s something for everyone at Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
6. UW Arboretum
Madison, despite having a bustling downtown city life, also has large areas that are preserved and kept natural. The University of Wisconsin’s Arboretum covers a whopping 1,200 acres next to the busy Beltline Highway 12. The Arboretum, located about 4 miles south of the heart of the UW campus, has free admission for all ages to enjoy. Take one of many guided tours and learn the fascinating history of the land and community. Or grab a map and follow the designated trails on a self-guided stroll.
“The UW Arboretum is amazing. A great, quiet place for a walk in nature,” University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate Petr Ugarov said.
With over 100 unique species and types of plants and trees, the UW Arboretum is a well-maintained spot of nature surrounded by the city. On the Lost City guided tour, volunteers will take you to the remains of 100-year-old house foundations and crumbling roads. Developers in the 1920s wanted to turn the area into a wealthy subdivision. However, after discovering the land was too marshy to build on and some shady business deals, the land ended up being preserved and maintained by the university. Learn about that history and so much more by visiting the UW Arboretum.
7. UW-Madison Geology Museum
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a cool display of fossils, minerals, and other natural history right on campus. Right across the street from the current computer sciences building, the convenient location makes for a good visit before or after classes. See a woolly mammoth and dinosaur bones as you walk. Colored rocks and minerals make for a stunning display. Watch as some of them even glow in the dark!
“I feel like no one knows that we have so many free little museums all around campus and the Geology Museum is the best. It has dinosaur bones and of course rocks. Normally you can find volunteers walking around. They are always so excited to tell you about everything! The first time I went, a volunteer even let me touch the meteorite. If you go at the right time, you will see people cleaning up dinosaur bones from a viewing window,” University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Alexandrea Jenkins said.
The Geology Museum has exhibits for visitors to touch, making for an interactive experience. The museum also has a collection of meteorites and other debris from space, a cool sight for aspiring astronomers. Visitors can sign up for a guided tour or view the exhibits by themselves. With no entrance admission fee, all ages can enjoy the geology museum. Who knew about all of the natural history that’s present in Madison?
8. National Mustard Museum
Ever wonder what condiments look like in different countries? If so, the National Mustard Museum in Middleton has you covered. Located a bit farther away from downtown Madison, the museum is only a 20-minute drive away. Take a day trip and spend the afternoon learning about mustard in all of its forms all around the globe. The museum promotes itself as being the world’s largest collection of mustard that sells a wider variety of mustards than anywhere else.
“It has exhibits of mustard from all over the world. You can even try mustards from either around the world or locally. The gift shop has funny shirts and of course lots of mustard,” Jenkins said.
The National Mustard Museum doesn’t just showcase the bright yellow American classic condiment. They sell different types with ingredients that combine really well with mustard, like dill & garlic, smoky chipotle, and even ginger curry. The historical displays feature more than 6,000 containers from all US states and nearly 100 countries. Remember your trip through the gift shop, where you can purchase a “Peace, Love, and Mustard” hoodie or mug! The National Mustard Museum does not have an age restriction, so everyone can experience this unique one-of-a-kind establishment.
9. Madison Public Library
Ready to dive into a new book? Stop by the Madison Public Library! There are nearly countless activities offered at their central location on West Mifflin Street right off the state capitol. Check out some new reads or find a quiet study spot. Or sign up for a workshop or class and learn a new skill.
“Madison Public Library has a lot of good events and weekly mending sessions.” University of Wisconsin-Madison junior Parker Harmon said.
The Madison Public Library offers more than just books. They have crafting and art-making sessions for people of all ages and skill levels. They offer movie screenings and even free vision screenings. Stop by and see their “library of stuff” available for checkout, including a full disk golf kit, graphing calculators and so much more. They also have a seed library, no library card needed, where patrons can take herb, flower, and vegetable seeds to grow at home! There are plenty of activities to fill up an afternoon at the Madison Public Library.
10. IO Arcade Bar
Itching to play a game of pinball or an old-school arcade game? Look no further than IO Arcade Bar. They have a wide variety of game cabinets and themed pinball machines to play. During regular weekday hours, the bar only allows people 21+. However, there are select days and hours where the arcade is open to all, including Saturday and Sunday.
“While normally 21 and over, on Sunday afternoons IO Arcade Bar is open for all ages. It’s got a ton of old arcade games that all cost 1 or 2 quarters to play, so it’s easy to make $5 last an hour or more there,” University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Kaden Almizyed said.
Bring some friends and a roll of quarters for a fun afternoon. If you don’t have quarters on hand, they have an ATM onsite. Located on Williamson Street, lovingly known as “Willy Street” by locals, the arcade might be a bit of a trek to walk to from campus. But don’t fear, there are bus lines that run by and Madison has electric B-Cycle bicycles available for rent as well. Feel like you’re transported back to the 1980s with the classic arcade feel of IO Arcade Bar.
11. Vitense Golfland
Tee up and get ready to putt at Vitense Golfland. A quick bus ride makes for a fun day trip to practice your swing. Vitense has a large driving range for avid golfers. If regular golf isn’t your thing, they also have a large mini-golf course. Complete with fun animal statues and obstacles, Vitense mini-golf makes for a cute outing with friends.
“Vitense is an awesome top golf style range about 5 miles out from campus. Super fun games and a great way to pick up the sport. You can get straight there from campus using the E bus,” University of Wisconsin-Madison senior Peter Davis said.
All ages can learn how to golf at Vitense. You can compete with your friends all while getting good practice. If you feel hungry during your visit, Vitense has you covered with their onsite kitchen “The Signature Hole Bar & Grill.” Get something to eat or a refreshing drink in between rounds. Or, a cup of Chocolate Shoppe ice cream will sure hit the spot after a hole-in-one.
12. Henry Vilas Zoo
Flamingos, giraffes, rhinos, chimps, and frogs, oh my! The Henry Vilas Zoo makes for a fun afternoon in Madison. Just 1.5 miles south of the UW-Madison campus, there are many different ways to get there. People of all ages are welcome as the zoo remains admission-free. Roam through the 28-acre campus and see some beautiful animals.
13. Chazen Museum of Art
Take in paintings, sculptures, and different art installations at the Chazen Museum of Art. With free admission, the Chazen is welcome to the public. Located near the heart of the UW-Madison campus next to the humanities building, this art museum makes for a great spot to stop in between classes. Exhibits rotate frequently, so you never know what you’ll see. The Chazen has a screening room as well, showing selected films for free. It also has a cafe with a seating area, which students can utilize while studying.
14. B-Side Records
Support your favorite artists and local businesses by stopping in B-Side Records on State Street. No need to be 21, just have a love for physical music media. Browse through the extensive catalog of new record releases mixed with older classics. Thumb through the bins of vinyl or look through the CD shelves to find your favorites. Starting a collection has never been as easy as starting at B-Side Records.
15. Hike the Lakeshore Path
Looking to get away from the hectic downtown area? Take a hike, literally! The Howard Temin Lakeshore Path loops around Lake Mendota, starting by Memorial Union and ending at Picnic Point. The dirt path runs along the lake and acts as a quick route for students in the lakeshore dorms to get to class on time. Open to the public and free of charge, the Lakeshore Path allows people to get fresh air and exercise while listening to the waves of the lake. One destination at the end of the path is Picnic Point, located at the end of a small peninsula that forms University Bay. See the state capitol and the beautiful Madison skyline. Enjoy the scenery as you walk or bike. Stop and rest at any of the benches along the path for some serenity. For the more avid hiker, Frautschi Point may be another destination. Located one-mile northwest of Picnic Point, Frautschi Point offers equally stunning views of the lake.
16. UW Cinematheque
Are you a film buff looking for classic movies on the big screen? The Cinematheque has you covered. Located in Vilas Communications Hall on the UW-Madison campus, the Cinematheque has free screenings each week. See original film presses of obscure flicks and old classics. The Cinematheque also shows an array of films during the Wisconsin Film Festival each year, often hosting talks with directors. With it being open to the public and seats being first come first served, check the Cinematheque website for showtimes.
17. Climb at the Bakke
The Bakke Recreation and Wellbeing Center opened on the UW-Madison campus in 2023. New updated equipment and facilities make it a great destination if you’re looking for a good workout. There’s no age requirement, but you do need a membership. UW-Madison students have free access with their student ID. Some fun activities at the Bakke include their 13-foot tall bouldering wall and their 32-foot tall climbing wall. Gear like harnesses and shoes are free and available to all members. No experience needed for either wall, and the staff would be more than happy to assist you in your climbs.
18. The Orpheum
One of many venues near State Street, the Orpheum has been a part of Madison’s history. Built-in the 1920s and on the National Register of Historic Places, the Orpheum sets the stage well for every kind of live act. Fun fact: it was the first building in Wisconsin to have air conditioning installed. In the modern era, hundreds of acts take the stage throughout the year. See a band, comedian, or any touring act that passes through Madison. Most shows are for all ages unless otherwise noted.
19. Der Rathskeller
Take it back to Wisconsin’s German roots at Der Rathskeller in Memorial Union. Open to everyone, you’ll often see UW-Madison students studying during the day and more of the general public in the evenings. There are tables, chairs, and booths to sit in under all of the vintage solid archways. Or, take your food outside and enjoy it with a stunning view right off of Lake Mendota. Watch sports games and root for your favorite teams while enjoying fresh Wisconsin cheese curds.
20. Brittingham Park
Get a friend or a group together to play some sports at Brittingham Park! Located on the coast of Monona Bay off of Lake Monona, Brittingham Park has a variety of things to do. Walk along the path around the bay, rent a kayak from Brittingham Boats or play a game of beach volleyball, basketball or pickleball at the courts. They also have an ultimate frisbee field. A high-energy game would be worth the mile trek south of downtown. And you get a stunning view of the lake as you play.
21. Grab a slice of Rocky Rococo Pizza
Rocky Rococo Pizza and Pasta first opened on Gilman Street in Madison in 1974. Since then, other locations have opened around the city and in south central Wisconsin. Dig into a thick pan-style slice that will have you going in for seconds. Using Wisconsin cheese, Rocky Rococo supports local dairy farmers. And, they have a fun mascot who wears small circle sunglasses and a hat paired with a mustache. Each location has different cheesy movie-themed promotional posters featuring Rocky Rococo himself. Stop in and chow down on a super slice while supporting a local chain.
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