February in Wisconsin can be a challenge! By this time of year, many of us start feeling a little cooped up and longing for a change of scenery (and maybe some warmer weather). But winter in Wisconsin doesn’t have to be all about hibernation. There are plenty of exciting cold-weather activities to help you make the most of the season.

5 Fun Things to Do Around Madison

1. Get Active Outdoors

  • Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at outdoor rinks like Tenney Park or Vilas Park, or skate indoors at one of Madison’s ice arenas.
  • Skiing & Sledding: Hit the slopes at Indian Lakes or Elver Park for some downhill fun.
  • Snowshoeing & Hiking: Explore scenic winter trails at the UW Arboretum, Pheasant Branch Conservancy, or Cherokee Marsh.

2. Explore a Local Landmark

  • Wisconsin State Capitol: Tour this stunning historic building and take in the breathtaking views from the observation deck.
  • Bolz Conservatory at Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Step into a tropical paradise filled with exotic plants and warm, humid air—perfect for a winter escape!
  • Day Trips: Venture outside the city to explore the natural wonders of Cave of the Mounds or the quirky, one-of-a-kind House on the Rock.

3. Visit a Local Museum

  • Madison Children’s Museum: Perfect for families, with hands-on exhibits that engage kids of all ages.
  • Chazen Museum of Art: Enjoy free admission and an impressive collection of art from around the world.
  • UW Geology Museum: A hidden gem where you can see real dinosaur fossils and learn about Wisconsin’s geological history.

4. Enjoy a Show or Sporting Event

  • Overture Center for the Arts: Catch a performance like Kids in the Rotunda, a free Saturday morning show for families.
  • Comedy Club on State: Laugh away the winter blues at a stand-up comedy show or open mic night.
  • UW Badgers Sports: Cheer on the University of Wisconsin teams—especially men’s hockey—for a true college town experience.

5. Stay Active Indoors

  • Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself at Boulders Climbing Gym.
  • Bowling: Enjoy a few frames at Schwoegler’s or Ten Pin Alley.
  • Indoor Mini Golf: Test your putting skills at Vitense Golfland.

5 Fun Things to Do Around Milwaukee

 

1. Get Active Outdoors

  • Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at outdoor rinks like Red Arrow Park or Slice of Ice, or skate indoors at the Pettit National Ice Center.
  • Skiing & Sledding: Hit the slopes at The Rock Snowpark, cross country ski at Grant Park, or enjoy sledding at Whitnall Park.
  • Snowshoeing & Hiking: Explore scenic winter trails at the Urban Ecology Center, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, or Kettle Moraine State Forest.

2. Explore a Local Landmark

  • Milwaukee Art Museum: Tour this stunning museum and enjoy world-class exhibits.
  • Mitchell Park Domes: Step into a warm, lush environment inside these iconic botanical domes.
  • Day Trips: Venture outside the city to explore the natural beauty of Holy Hill or the architectural wonder of Ten Chimneys.

3. Visit a Local Museum

  • Discovery World: Perfect for families, with hands-on science and technology exhibits.
  • Harley-Davidson Museum: Learn about the legendary motorcycle brand and its deep Milwaukee roots.
  • Milwaukee Public Museum: Explore everything from a butterfly garden to a life-size replica of old Milwaukee.

4. Enjoy a Show or Sporting Event

  • Marcus Performing Arts Center: Catch a Broadway show, ballet, or concert.
  • Milwaukee Improv: Laugh away the winter blues at a stand-up comedy show.
  • Milwaukee Bucks or Admirals Game: Cheer on the Bucks at Fiserv Forum or enjoy a fast-paced hockey game with the Admirals.

5. Stay Active Indoors

  • Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself at Adventure Rock Climbing Gym.
  • Bowling: Enjoy a few frames at Holler House or Landmark Lanes.
  • Indoor Mini Golf: Test your putting skills at Nine Below.

Winter in Wisconsin can be magical if you embrace it! Have other ideas to add to the list? We’d love to hear from you—share your favorite winter activities in the comments below!

Photo credit: Steph Gronemus in our Meadow Crossing neighborhood