While the Healthy Living Summit is billed as an event for healthy living enthusiasts, we know that many attendees have considered bringing along their spouses and kids to turn the conference weekend into a bit of a family vacation. If you’re thinking about making your trek to Madison a family affair, we have a few family-friendly outings and activities around the city to recommend! Below, Kelly and Kim, both Madison residents, share a few of their favorite free or cheap kid-friendly activities and locations in our 2014 host city of Madison, Wisconsin.
Kids in the Rotunda is a fun family event that takes place every Saturday at the Overture Center for the Arts, just a few blocks away from the Summit hotel. The performances are different every week and range from musicians to theater to dancing, and more. Plus, it is free!
The Dane County Farmers’ Market may not be the first thing you think of when you think about kids’ events, but it really is fun for the whole family. The market wraps around the Capitol building, and there is a large grassy area for children to play and eat their local treats from the market. On sunny summer and autumn days, the lawn is filled with families lounging and enjoying the day.
The Madison Public Library system has several libraries throughout the city that offer free or inexpensive events for kids every week. Stop by for crafts, movies, story time, and more!
Located just steps from downtown, Madison’s free Henry Vilas Zoo is an absolute must-see, perfect for kids of all ages. Kim has spent many summer afternoons there and her 2-year-old is always in heaven. In addition to the wide variety of animals in the main exhibits, Henry Vilas also features a separate Children’s Zoo with a carousel, tree house play center, and a zoo train that weaves around the grounds. We recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at the adjacent park or beach area (Yes, there’s a beach!).
If you’ll have access to a car, check out Eplegaarden, “da apple orchard vit da Norvegian exposure.” Just a 15-20 minute drive away, Eplegaarden offers hay rides, a corn maze, and pick-your-own apples and pumpkins. They also offer various events and activities on the weekends!
These are just a handful of the free or cheap fun things that Madison has to offer! If you have a family, we hope you’ll consider bringing them to the Healthy Living Summit with you in September!