The 13 Best Free Things to Do in Wisconsin!
You heard that right! And who doesn’t like free things? It’s not always easy trying to find ways to have fun without spending a dime, but we’re here to help. From bratwurst festivals, to arboretums, to brewery tours, the list goes on. Check out these 13 free things Wisconsin has to offer.
Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison, WI
Located in Madison, Wisconsin the Henry Vilas Zoo is completely free to the public. They do ask for donations at their donation boxes. See the penguins, giraffes, monkeys, rhinos, lions and tigers, bears, and many more. Check out seasonal exhibits as well—all included in the free admission to the zoo.
Dane County Farmers Market, Madison, WI
Mosey around the famous capitol square on any given Saturday in the summer and fall months. Look around or purchase fresh produce, hand made crafts, beautiful flower arrangements, breads, jams, nuts, and much more. There is no admission to walk around and take in the beautiful views of the Wisconsin state capitol.
Fred Smith’s Concrete Park, Phillips, WI
In Philips, Wisconsin, lies Fred Smith’s Concrete Park. The park itself has been named one of the Seven of Man Made Wonders of Wisconsin. Walk around and look at the concrete sculptures of local legends, Smith’s friends and family, along with mythical heroes. This is perfect weekend adventure for any artist in the family.
Milwaukee Public Market, Milwaukee, WI
Located in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward is the famous Milwaukee Public Market. Check out local kiosks, shops, and eateries. Getting inside the enclosed Milwaukee Public Market is free and a great way to get the Milwaukee experience. Visitors don’t need to purchase anything to have fun here!
Wiouwash Trail
Walk, bike, or run on the Wiouwash trail that covers over four different counties and about 40 miles. Unlike most trails in the area, the Wiouwash Trail does not require a pass or permit—making this a completely free activity for the public. Get some fresh air and take in some of Wisconsin’s jaw dropping views.
Brat Fest, Madison, WI
Did you know the World’s Largest Brat Fest is held in Madison, Wisconsin? On top of that, its admission is free. Enjoy free music and free parking every Memorial Day weekend in Madison.
Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Shows, Minocqua, WI
Let the Min-Aqua Bat’s entertain you every Sunday, Wednesday and Fridays at 7 p.m. The Min-Aqua Bats are the United States oldest ski shows team. Drive up and anchor your boat just outside the ski zone or watch from the bleachers on land.
University of Wisconsin Arboretum, Madison, WI
The arboretum is part of the University of Wisconsin campus. The arboretum is free to the public and hosts many free events throughout the year. With well over 1,000 acres, the arboretum restores many different types of ecosystems and is said to be the most extensive in the United States.
New Glarus Brewing Company, New Glarus, WI
Located in small town, New Glarus—take a free self guided tour of the New Glarus Brewing Company. On top of that there are free tastings with a military ID. Check out how the famous Wisconsin Spotted Cow is brewed.
Tailgating a Badger football game
While buying the food and drink might not be free, tailgating in itself is completely free. If you are in Madison and it’s Badger football Saturday—stop by a tailgater and get the real Big 10 experience from one of the United States biggest party schools.
Bradford Beach, Milwaukee, WI
Bradford Beach is a public beach in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Enjoy the sandy beach, swimming, and sand volleyball courts on a hot Wisconsin summer day. Take in the serene views of Lake Michigan on one of Milwaukee’s County Parks—Bradford Beach.
National Mustard Museum, Middleton, WI
The National Mustard Museum is a free of charge museum. Taste test different mustards and shop from their 5,500 different mustard flavors. Mustards come from all 50 states and over 70 different countries—not that’s diversity!
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, Green Bay, WI
With over 700 acres, it’s no surprise that the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is Green Bay’s largest park. The sanctuary aids around 4,500 injured animals every year. The park is free all year, so take advantage of their hiking/skiing trails, mini waterfall, and lake.
