Family Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Madison, Wisconsin

Day 1: Explore Downtown

Madison, Wisconsin

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ella's Deli

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ella’s Deli, known for its whimsical decor and delicious pancakes.
Drive or bike to Ella’s Deli, located in the heart of downtown.
USD 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol

After breakfast, stroll to the Wisconsin State Capitol for a guided tour of this stunning building.
Short walk from Ella’s Deli, just 0.5 miles.
USD 0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Madison Children’s Museum

Continue the fun at the Madison Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits inspire creativity in children.
Walk/bike from the Capitol, approximately 0.6 miles.
USD 10 per person, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Old Fashioned

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Old Fashioned, serving up classic Wisconsin dishes and local favorites.
A brief walk from the Children’s Museum, only 0.3 miles.
USD 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at the Memorial Union Terrace

Head to the iconic Memorial Union Terrace for lakeside views and a chance for the family to relax and enjoy some ice cream.
A beautiful lakeside walk from the restaurant, about 1 mile.
USD 15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Marigold Kitchen

Conclude your first day with a delicious dinner at Marigold Kitchen known for its farm-to-table philosophy.
Drive from Memorial Union, approximately 1.2 miles.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Walk at State Street

Take a leisurely evening walk down State Street, filled with shops and street performers.
Walk to State Street from Marigold Kitchen, about 0.5 miles.
USD 0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Discovery

Madison, Wisconsin

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee Gallerie

Fuel up with a scrumptious breakfast at Coffee Gallerie offering a range of pastries and coffee.
Drive to Coffee Gallerie, located about 1.5 miles from downtown.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautiful Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a perfect spot for families to learn about diverse plants and ecosystems.
Short drive from the coffee shop, 2 miles.
USD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Picnic Lunch at the Gardens

Pack a picnic or grab sandwiches nearby for a peaceful lunch surrounded by beautiful flowers.
Enjoy lunch in the gardens.
USD 35, 1 hour

1:00PM

Tour the Henry Vilas Zoo

Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo, which is free and home to many fascinating animal exhibits perfect for children.
A quick drive from the botanical gardens, approximately 2 miles.
USD 0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Ice Cream at The Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co.

Treat everyone to specially-crafted ice cream at The Chocolate Shoppe, renowned for its unique flavors.
Drive from the zoo, just around 1 mile.
USD 25, 1 hour

4:30PM

Evening at Lake Wingra

Spend the late afternoon kayaking at Lake Wingra, a fun family activity surrounded by nature.
Short drive about 1.5 miles from the ice cream shop.
USD 50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bluephies

Enjoy a lively dining experience at Bluephies, where the kids can try different pizzas and specialty dishes.
Drive from Lake Wingra, approximately 2.5 miles.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Madison, Wisconsin

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Bear

Indulge in a cozy breakfast at The Coffee Bear, where freshly baked pastries and coffee await.
Drive to The Coffee Bear, 2 miles.
USD 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Chazen Museum of Art

Explore the Chazen Museum where families can admire a diverse collection of artwork interacting with various exhibits.
Drive back to campus area, about 1 mile.
USD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co.

Savor a family-friendly lunch in a casual setting at The Great Dane with excellent local brews and hearty meals.
Just a half a mile drive or walk from the museum.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Aldo Leopold Nature Center

Visit the Aldo Leopold Nature Center for educational opportunities in conservation and nature.
Drive from the restaurant, approximately 5 miles.
USD 30, 3 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Noodles & Company

Wrap up your trip with a delicious dinner at Noodles & Company, where everyone can customize their own noodle dishes.
Drive from the nature center back towards downtown, about 5 miles.
USD 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Stroll at the Monona Terrace

End your trip with a relaxing stroll at Monona Terrace, enjoying the last views of Lake Monona.
About 1.5 miles from Noodles & Company, easy to reach by car.
USD 0, 1.5 hours
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