The UW–Madison campus offers beautiful lakefront views, world-class museums, peaceful gardens, hands-on science exhibits, and plenty of places to explore between conference sessions. Whether you are looking for a quiet walk, a sweet treat, a bit of local history, or time on the water, these campus destinations offer a memorable way to experience Madison.
- Allen Centennial Garden. A scenic outdoor garden surrounding the historic Agricultural Dean’s House, a Queen Anne-style home built in 1896. Stroll through beautifully designed garden spaces, enjoy a quiet place to relax, and take in one of campus’s most charming green spaces.
- Babcock Dairy Store. A campus favorite for ice cream, cheese, and other dairy specialties made right here at UW–Madison. The store also offers breakfast and lunch items, making it a great stop for a quick meal or a classic Wisconsin treat.
- Botany Garden and Greenhouse. A peaceful destination for plant lovers and curious visitors alike. The outdoor garden offers a place for leisure and reflection, while the greenhouse showcases plants from around the world and has long served as both a teaching laboratory and an oasis of tranquility.
- Chazen Museum of Art. A free art museum located at the heart of campus, featuring collections that span cultures, time periods, and artistic media. It is an ideal stop for visitors looking to enjoy a quiet, inspiring break indoors.
- Geology Museum. A family-friendly museum where visitors can explore Wisconsin’s deep geologic past. Touch ancient rocks, see fossils from seas that once covered the region, and stand beneath the tusks of a mastodon while imagining life during the Ice Age.
- Ingersoll Wonders of Physics Museum. A hands-on museum featuring more than 65 interactive exhibits that bring physics concepts to life. Many exhibits were designed and built by UW–Madison faculty, staff, and students, making this a uniquely campus-based science experience.
- Lakeshore Nature Preserve. A 300-acre natural area along Lake Mendota with trails, shoreline views, restored landscapes, and quiet places to walk or reflect. Visitors can also explore the Audio Field Trip & Poetry Trail to hear stories about the cultural and natural history of the Preserve.
- Memorial Union Terrace. One of UW–Madison’s most iconic gathering places, featuring lakefront seating, live music, food, and the famous sunburst chairs. The Terrace is a perfect place to relax, meet up with colleagues, and enjoy views of Lake Mendota.
- Nancy M. Bruce Center for Design and Material Culture. A free campus destination with two open galleries focused on design, material culture, and contemporary textiles. Exhibitions highlight both the process and products of design, including work by national and international makers.
- Outdoor UW. Located at Memorial Union, Outdoor UW offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals on Lake Mendota. It is a great option for visitors who want to experience campus from the water and enjoy one of Madison’s signature summer activities.
- UW Arboretum. A beloved Madison destination with miles of trails through restored prairies, wetlands, savannas, and woodlands. The Arboretum offers a peaceful way to experience Wisconsin landscapes and explore one of the university’s most treasured outdoor spaces.