Spring Break Guide 2026 | Day Trips from Madison, WI
Matt Winzenried
Matt has worked in Real Estate since 2005. He has experience in changing markets and economies...
Matt has worked in Real Estate since 2005. He has experience in changing markets and economies...
Spring break's almost here!
If you're staying in the Madison area for the week and are looking for some fun day-trip ideas, we've got you! We collected ideas that are easy, family friendly, and good in all types of weather. Plus we've included quick links for hours, ticket info, and directions from Madison!
What did we miss, where else would be good to visit? Let us know!
Milwaukee
90 minutes from Madison
Milwaukee Art Museum / More Info | Location
Milwaukee Public Museum / More Info | Location
Discovery World / More Info | Location
Milwaukee County Zoo / More Info | Location
Historic Third Ward area / More Info | Location
Mitchell Park Domes / More Info | Location
LaCrosse
2 hr 20 mins from Madison
Grandad Bluff / Location
Perrot State Park (30 mins from LaCrosse) / More Info | Location
Children’s Museum of La Crosse / More Info | Location
Riverside Park / Location
Jump Start Adventure Park / More Info | Location
Chicago
2 hr 30 mins from Madison
Garfield Park Conservatory / More Info | Location
Shedd Aquarium / More Info | Location
Chicago Children's Museum / More Info | Location
Lincoln Park Zoo / More Info | Location
Art Institute of Chicago / More Info | Location
Chicago History Museum / More Info | Location
Chicago Sports Museum / More Info | Location
Field Museum / More Info | Location
Grant Park / Location
Lakefront walk / Location
Spring Break Faves
Have some more Wisconsin area favorites? We'd love to add to our guide! (Or ask us for tips on the best Madison area neighborhoods to explore this season)