Updated for Winter 2025-2026
When the temperatures drop in Madison, our five lakes transform into sprawling frozen playgrounds, proving that winter in Wisconsin is far from a season of hibernation. From the beloved tradition of the UW-Madison Winter Carnival—complete with the iconic inflatable Lady Liberty—to exploring 200 miles of snow-dusted trails and the indoor warmth of the Dane County Farmers' Market, there is an activity for every pace. This guide explores the best ways to embrace the chill and discover why Madison truly shines in the winter.
Events
Garver Feed Mill, 8am-12pm Saturdays
Until the Dane County Farmer’s Market returns to the square, you can still grab your favorite locally-produced and farmed goodies indoors, away from the cold, in Garver Feed Mill. It’s the same market, just in a warm space away from the freezing winter weather.
The Winter Market runs at Garver Feed mill runs January 3 - April 4, 2026.
Wisconsin Memorial Union, February 5-7, all day
Have you ever seen that iconic image of the statue of liberty out on the ice of Lake Mendota in winter? Well, that famous art installation is celebrated through an inflatable replica of this fun part of Madison’s pop culture history that will be surrounded by a flurry of winter activities including performances by snowboarders and skiers, broom ball, ice skating, and other activities to keep you warm. Of course, there will be hot chocolate.
There’s always something happening at the Overture Center of the Arts, whether it is a play performed by Forward Theatre, a Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra concert, the Madison Ballet, a or Broadway show, there is something in their program for everyone. They are a short walk from the hotel on State Street. Check out their current season and see if there is anything you’d like to attend, especially during these first few cold months of the year.
Up for a laugh? The Comedy Club is also a neighbor of ours on State Street. Comedy on State is a female-owned and operated premier comedy club located in the heart of downtown Madison, Wisconsin. The club, owned by the Paras family since 2001, has a reputation for bringing in top-notch comedic talent from around the country. The club’s intimate setting creates an up-close and personal experience for the audience, making it a favorite spot for performers and comedy enthusiasts.
Outdoor
If it’s cold enough, you can set foot on a skating rink with your own blades or you can rent a pair from select city parks. Ice skating has always been a part of the Madison experience whether it is figure skating, speed skating, hockey, broom ball, or just going around the rink for fun.
Well….this option isn’t completely outdoors, but the easy walk from shop-to-shop is. Madison’s pedestrian-only thoroughfare of State Street is home to dozens of shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy. Get your steps in and treat yourself to a gift from a locally-owned shop, or a warm beverage from one of many independent or local-chain coffee shops.
Winter Walks and Hikes
If you’re willing to enjoy a scenic winter wonderland in the great outdoors, Madison has plenty of walking trails in which to enjoy the season such as the Lakeshore Path, Picnic Point, and other Dane County Parks. You can also immerse yourself in nature at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center.
Dane County Parks tends to offer many different events over the season, visit their events calendar to see if there is an outdoor winter event you would like to partake in!
Escape
Escape to a tropical paradise during this frigid time of year by walking through the conservatory at Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
If you’re willing to enjoy a walk outside, their 16 acres of outdoor gardens are usually open year-round if you’re looking for a peaceful walk in the snow.
Visit their events calendar here.
Staycation at the Madison Concourse Hotel
Sometimes it is nice to be a tourist of your own city or state, and if you’re looking for a cozy spot for a getaway, we’d love to have you as our guest. Our central location offers short-distance walkability to many popular shops, restaurants, venues, museums and more right in the heart of downtown Madison. Whatever the excuse, a romantic getaway or otherwise, we’ve got you.
You can upgrade your stay by booking a guest room in our Governor’s Club executive level. Floors 11-14 have access to an exclusive lounge and library looking over the Wisconsin State Capitol. In addition to our lobby, the 12th floor lounge and library share a cozy fireplace to relax by keeping you warm while you enjoy complimentary hors d’ oeuvres, continental breakfast, desserts, and top-shelf cocktails.
We know that winter in Wisconsin can be long, but we’re so fortunate that Madison has so many wonderful activities where we can get outside our homes and enjoy this season.
Looking for our holiday guide to start of the winter season? Check it out here.
See more events from our friends at The Isthmus