Madison, Wisconsin isn’t just a capital city—it’s a creative hub brimming with music, murals, live performances, and gallery spaces. For meeting planners looking to add a spark of culture and inspiration to their event, Madison’s arts scene offers a unique opportunity to engage attendees both during and after scheduled programming.

Walkable Access to Arts & Culture
The Madison Concourse Hotel sits in the heart of downtown Madison, just steps from some of the city’s most iconic arts venues. Attendees can stroll to the Overture Center for the Arts to catch a Broadway touring show, symphony concert, or dance performance—or explore fine art exhibits of a variety of genres and movements at MMoCA (Madison Museum of Contemporary Art) or Chazen Museum of Art on the University of Wisconsin Campus. Unlike museums in some large cities, admission to both of these museums is free, and both have permanent collections and special exhibits. The Overture Center and the University of Wisconsin Union also have art galleries that offer free admission.

Local Color That Feels Authentic
Looking for ways to tie in local flavor? Incorporate a visit to Gallery Night, Concerts on the Square, or Jazz at Five into your itinerary. Or host a reception featuring live music from local artists, pop-up performances, or even an artist talk from a UW-Madison faculty member. Madison’s creative community is accessible, talented, and passionate—ready to help make your meeting stand out.

In early-to-mid July, Art Fair on the Square brings in 500 artists from around the country and draws in around 200,000 visitors for a weekend of art, food, music, and more. This year’s fair takes place on July 12 & 13. Admission is free, providing a good opportunity to browse a great variety of art in scenic downtown Madison. There are so many festivals and fairs full of art, music, and culture throughout the summer, we are truly spoiled for choice.

Art as a Team-Building Tool
Art can be more than entertainment—it can be interactive. Bring your group together with hands-on experiences like collaborative mural painting, art workshops with Revel. These creative team-building options encourage expression, innovation, and group connection in ways that traditional sessions often can't.

There are many performances and special events at other local music venues such as Majestic Madison, The Sylvee, and Orpheum. Perhaps your group can catch a show during the week to relax, sit back, and enjoy the music.

Looking for a laugh? Comedy on State features comedic talents from across the country.

Madison is where business meets inspiration. Add a layer of local creativity to your meeting, and leave your attendees energized, connected, and talking long after the final session.