WINTER WONDERLAND

The Greater Madison area offers four seasons of fun and winter is no exception!

Make the short drive to Merrimac to discover Devil’s Head Resort, a don’t-miss winter destination that includes 30 scenic runs and five restaurant choices where you can dine when you’re done for the day. If getting out and about when it’s winter out is better for you in small doses, stop by one of Madison’s 260 parks to play! From ice skating lessons to candlelight snowshoe events, there’s an activity for every ability and the City of Madison Parks interactive map will get you there! One outdoor option is The Edgewater hotel ice rink, Madison’s version of Rockefeller Plaza. Or check out our Winter Sports page for more information (including places to cross-country ski).

Madison’s downtown library is home to much more than books. Visit the Bubbler, offering a wide range of lectures, demonstrations, performances and make-and-take workshops. Close-by are a variety of museums, such as the Madison Children’s Museum  and the Wisconsin Historical Museum, as well as art galleries like the Chazen Museum of Art.

Cave of the Mounds is educational, yet fun, family adventure. One-hour tours of this geologic wonder depart daily and the cave’s consistent 50 degree temperature makes the cave feel warm—even in winter. Studio, You Paint It Pottery is another great place for families, and artists of all ages! For active families, bounce on over to Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park and play on their climbing wall and trampolines. For spectator sports, catch a Madison Capitols Hockey game from September to April or one of the many UW-Badger sports.

Is your perfect picture of winter fun a more relaxing one? Visit one of the country’s most luxurious spas: Sundara Inn & Spa. Nestled in 26 acres of fragrant pine forest, this tranquil retreat provides the perfect place to relax and give your body a break from the harsh winter weather. Or indulge at Indulge Spa, and receive the best in massage therapy, skin care and boy and nail treatments.

No matter what brings you winter excitement, warm up with some coffee or hot chocolate at Marigold Kitchen near the Capitol Square. Then, take a stroll around the Capitol Square and down State Street to explore more Madison-only shops and restaurants, including handcrafted chocolates and distinctive desserts at Kilwins, or cheese, spreads and breads at Fromagination. Finish off your winter day by taking in a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts. From ballets to Broadway musicals to comedic acts and more, you’ll adore any show you see in this stunning arts complex.

http://www.visitmadison.com/plan-your-trip/itinerary-ideas/madison-winter-wonderland/