Top Madison Art & Culture

Madison's original ghost tour. This haunted history walking tour of Madison’s historic Capitol Square will give you a unique perspective on the history of the city. Your guides are expert storytellers who will let you in on the ghost stories, urban legends, and paranormal activity that are sprinkled throughout Madison’s past. This is an outdoor walking tour, so please check the weather before coming and dress accordingly. The tour runs in cold temperatures and light rain. Please wear walking shoes and dress appropriately for walking around outside.

Travel between two lake-side terraces and enjoy some of Wisconsin's best cultural sites along the way with this self-guided and self-paced walking tour! • Visit some of Madison historically rich architectural gems such as the State Capitol, Der Rathskaller, Bascomb Hill, Memorial Union and much more • Hear from producer Frank Burge, an award-winning writer, essayist and midwestern local • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Unleash your inner artist with the Introduction to Glassblowing class in Madison, designed for ages 6 and up, and perfect for beginners or those looking to enhance their skills. In this hands-on session, participants will craft stunning glass ornaments, stirring rods, pendants, or watering globes while mastering essential techniques in a safe and supportive environment. Under close supervision, you’ll gain confidence in handling tools and materials, ensuring a worry-free creative experience. Each participant leaves with a unique handcrafted piece and a newfound appreciation for this intricate art form.

Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Lake Superior North Shore road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along Highway 61, all based on your location. You'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including one of Minnesota's most photographed lighthouses, a historic mansion that's also the site of a famous murder mystery, and an iconic 932-foot-high scenic lookout over Lake Superior. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you. - Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location - Travel at your own pace - Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed - Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use - Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates - Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Leave behind the group walking tours and explore Madison in a wilder way—via a photo scavenger hunt. Using just your smartphone, you and your crew wander from the Wisconsin State Capitol and famous State Street to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the lakefront Union Terrace, and beyond. Along the way, complete crazy photo challenges, collect clues and points, and experience Mad City’s musical side.

Make memories to last a lifetime and step into a fantasy during this private photoshoot, complete with an eye-catching gown designed to flow far behind you and catch in the breeze. Don’t worry about being camera-shy, because the team is there to make sure you are comfortable and having fun. Get eye-catching, unedited pictures that you can share with your family, friends, and followers.

Turn exploring the UW–Madison campus into a fun, spooky adventure with this haunted walking tour. Concentrating on Library Mall and Bascom Hill, you’ll follow along with your guide as you discover ghostly and ghastly tales of legends, spirits, and documented paranormal experiences—if you’re lucky, you might even have an otherworldly experience yourself.

Get ready to dive into Madison—the city of four lakes and the ultimate college sports town! Explore its fascinating history, from its founding by James Doty to its reputation as a hub for sports fans. Admire the world’s largest granite dome, tackle riddles at the State Street Capitol Parking Garage, and discover the city’s unique ties to buffalo robes. Be sure to capture a team selfie at the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol!