20 Best Summer Programs In Madison, WI (2022 Updated)

I recently finished my second Technical degree for Metal Fabrication as a returning student. I delayed going back to school for years for lots of reasons, but mostly because I thought it would be as awful of an experience as High School was. Instead the teachers in my program were excellent. I was always challenged by the projects and supported in my learning in equal measure. If you're looking to get into welding or Metal Fabrication, these programs are career fields that need people, pay well, and you can learn them here! Don't sleep on the trade skills that can be taught here. Go to the open houses, see if these are things you're interested in doing. A 4 year degree isn't The guarantee of employment it used to be, but these one year Technical degrees, leading to in demand fields are.Travis H

Very nice tech college. Almost everyone you come across on campus can point you in the right direction. I just started school today online. But tomorrow I get to go to campus. It's a clean sanitary environment. There is currently some remodeling going on, so part of the building you cannot access… yet! AC was on, felt awesome. temperature didn't change much room to room either. All the employees seem to know their job very well and are willing to help. I chose Madison Area Technical College because I know many people that have graduated and successfully got into a job they wanted. This school is also smaller than UW Madison so I feel like the learning experience is better, more hands on, more participation versus a large school such as UW Madison.Shane Toycen

The good profs here are all just professors moonlighting from UW Madison, I'd honestly say you should apply to and go to literally any other UW system school before here. The quality of education isn't bad- but they somehow managed to misplace finances and put 650 bucks into collections randomly – without mailing me any notifications, and without a notifications on the online portal. You won't get competency from any of the administrative staff, expect 5 week long waits to see a counselor for any sort of urgent need. If you are a student with a disability – make sure you have additional copies of any medical documentation, they will claim to lose it. Most of the education staff despises the administrative staff and yeah, I can see why.Bee

I am a first grade teacher. Yesterday I took my students to Aldo Leopold Nature Center for the Pioneer Days program they offer. It was so wonderful!! They do such a fabulous job with the kids; the docents lead well and are so kind to the students! We had Miss Grace and Miss Katherine yesterday and they were phenomenal! The Pioneer Days program is full of hands-on activities. This was my fourth year taking a class and I have yet to be disappointed!Sylvia Meinema

A great nature refuge in the city. There are several paths to explore including a small pond. There are not landscaped as in a park but simple rugged paths. In the building, they provide a variety of classes and activities. The building is handicap accessible however, the paths are rough. (The staff is very helpful and I suspect that if you contacted them in advance some accommodations would be made – but the paths are rough.)Dave Shapiro

Beautiful nature center located just outside the city! They've got a lovely prairie full of diverse plant life, squirrels and a wide array of birds including a nesting pair of sandhill cranes. There's a nice array of trails through the nature park and inside there's an awesome exhibit of climate and the earth, including two very cool movie presentations in unique little theaters.Boaz Frankel

It is free entrance, they have Lions, polar bears, otters, reptiles, rhinoceros, flamingos, petting area for certain animals close to the children's side with play area. They have sanitize stations all around the zoo outside almost every exhibit. I saw about 2 bathroom areas and 2 family bathrooms. They also have a train and carousel ride which cost a small fee. The gift stores are a bit expensive but when everything else about is free I would expect that. Lastly the concession stands and food courts are also a bit pricey but the cost of water was only $1.00 so remember to stay hydrated on those hot days. . Not to mention there is a park right outside with benches and playgrounds perfect for a afternoon picnic and a beach on the other side. Overall we are definitely visiting here again. Kids and I had a blast. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No waitJamie M.

We love coming to this zoo. It's the perfect size for little kids to be able to walk and not get too worn out. It's nice in the winter too, if you bundle up and it's not too cold you can still have a great experience. The lions are often active and roaring. The polar bear is very active and likes to swim. There is a family of 5 otters to see too. We miss being able to go into the monkey and reptile area that has been closed to the public since COVID started. In the summer time the playground is open and is a great place to run around and play. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeJ Hyttsten

I was glad to see that they have more animals now, there's more places to eat/snack inside the zoo. Last time we were here(6 yrs) they were doing some construction and they didn't have a lot of animals. We all had a great time. My personal favorite was the tiger. There is no fee to enter the zoo, they just ask for a donation. The parking lot is small so I would recommend going early. You can also park on the street around the park. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeMaria Fernandez

I went here with my class for a confirmation retreat and I cannot tell you how much I actually loved it. Of course it was awkward at first, but as we got to know our counselors and classmates, it became extremely enjoyable. The food was super good and the gym, dining hall, chapel, and sleeping areas were all super kept up and clean. When we went, it was freezing cold but the outside views were still gorgeous. My favorite place was the rock climbing wall in the gym, nearly tied with the common room between the dorms. Plus the counselors were extremely kind, relatable and honest and openly shared their stories about their faith with us. My personal favorites were Caroline and Ryan. I recommend this place to other confirmation groups 110%.Sarah Naber

I was physically abused and humiliated by a camp counselor in front of whole camp because I had a fear of swimming due to a incident that happened at Jack's Lake near Antigo. This happened back in the early 70's. I never go back there or send anyone I know there. I hope that was an isolated incident. The snipe hunt was fun and wonder if they still did thatStarwalker

I went here for a school field trip and stayed over night I got food poison from idk what meal it was awful the camp counselors are awful and I don’t recommend it I was throwing up for three days.Jayley Schmelzer

It’s a touch on the expensive side if you’re just doing a day visit ($36 for 2 adults and 1 child); however in my opinion it’s worth every penny if you stay a few hours or more. The main area is pretty good size and 2.5 floors. There’s lots to do there with a few large playground type areas. I was disappointed at first until I realized (because it’s not very well marked) that there’s a great rooftop area and of course the ground level playground. When you add those in- along with a craft room for slowing down between runs- the place is an excellent overall experience. Plenty of bathrooms and some shared coats if you’re visiting in the winter like we did. Fun place- kid was happy!M Sumner

Don't miss this place! Guys if you have little kids you need to check this out! It's worth every penny! I went with my daughter she 8 years old ticket is $12 for her and $12 for me. We been there on Sat. since noon and no line to wait staff is very nice. Facilities is clean, restroom is clean… Ton of things to do and explore! Also things that they're can learned… In door and out door play ground in one place such an amazing fun place for kids with tiny budget. Totally satisfy and recommend! Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$11–15Traveling with The Lowing's

This place is very well thought out and a sensory overload of fun, interesting, and interactive things!! There is a small "pay your own price" meals in a sitting area. Staff was great and had geckos and chickens to pet. Overall a great time and easily spent 2 hours exploring, learning, and playing! Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
YesChris Wes

I've already written a review for the Arboretum, but here's another one, just a little shorter (maybe). This time, I chose to come here for my online bipolar support group. It's a nice, quiet, peaceful place and big enough that even with many hikers, bikers, etc, it's still easy to find a spot that's quiet and private. I'm an open book and don't care if people hear me talk about my stuff, but I also give feedback and such to others in the group so it's important that I protect their privacy and the Arboretum allowed me to do that. I've been in the group only a couple weeks and now I'm fully participating so I'll likely be using the arboretum again for this purpose.Bub Zilla

I stumbled across the history of the arboretum while in town on vacation. I figured it was worth a hike, and I was not disappointed. We did the trails north and northeast of the visitor center with the Native American effigy mounds and ponds/wetlands. We spotted a small group of turkeys, a fawn, and even spotted a coyote. The trails were clean. The upland forest near the mounds is dominated by old oaks and hickories, with an understory of maples. It created really gorgeous fall colors. The prairie was beautiful as well with its fall oranges, yellows, and reds. Can’t wait to come back!David Hahn

Incredible arboretum. Walking through the prairies was absolutely magical. So many beautiful flowers, grasses, and insects. The colors were incredible, the paths were nice to follow, and there were good signs around. The pond had such an amazing variety of colorful dragonflies. I would come here again in a heartbeat and explore more of it. So nice on a summer day. Walking through the pines was nice and cool even though it was a pretty hot day.Amaranth Sander

Students pay tens of thousands of dollars for their nursing degrees only to sit in a 30 minute graduation ceremony with no cap and gown. It's very unfortunate that the staff here downplays such a wonderful achievement. Let's also not forget all of the "refreshments provided afterward"…. there were none. There was a student that passed away and her name was never acknowledged during the ceremony. Sad. Very sad.Tony Robertson

This is a top notch exhibition! And, it was free admission! I had a wonderful time learning about the Civil War through a lifelike exhibition of men in uniform, in exhibits which make the experience come to life! The pictures, the stories, the personal artifacts, the medical tools and the ammunition examples! Wow! What an experience! This exhibition moved you through the succession of various wars with an emphasis of the role Wisconsin played in each. There were scenes set up that gave you a real experience of what it might have been like to see that bomber plane overhead, or be in the snow-covered landscape with what they had for provisions. There were model ships to depict how they contributed to the wartime efforts. Pictures of women's contributions, the multitude of soldiers Wisconsin sent into battle. From historical to more recent wars, every part of this museum touches your heart, offers a peak into the action and leaves you with a deep sense of both pride in the people that fought for our freedoms and a tenderness for those who lost their lives for ours. This museum is a must experience in Madison, WI. Additionally, the location directly across from our state's capitol, adds a unique aspect! Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeSarah Dennis

I did not think this would be so interesting, but it was! There is no cost to go in, and the way things are set up, is very life like. Sure makes one think twice of all that our veterans go through and have to carry for survival. Very well worth seeing. Self guided tour, so you can spend as much time as you want to checking out the exhibits. There is a helicopter and some airplanes in it as well. Wow is all I can say. Well done. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeGail Raymond

A very nice, free museum that is simple and to the point. I enjoyed browsing the war artifacts and the models of tanks and airplanes. The Veterans Museum also has very fun interactive exhibits, ranging from looking up potential relatives that served in the Civil War to hearing the war stories of WWII veterans. I definitely enjoyed this museum and I would definitely be back! Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
No

Price for adult entry
FreeGriffin May

I was in ENV engg during 1970 1972 for MS studies Dr RK Ham Dr PM Berthouex Dr WC Boyle Dr Polkowski taught ENV engg. Dr ham was supervisor to help me. The more building constructed. Engg building was then done. I like the university of Wisconsin , Madison, the most then after coming back to India I served teaching at National Institute of Technology VNIT Nagpur Maharashtra 1974 to 2010, for 35 + years taught MS students also Undergrad students.Ramesh Gawalpanchi

This is by far the most integrated, comprehensive, and supportive gym I've experienced. The trainers and the owners are passionate, welcoming, and extremely knowledgeable, the classes are small, and the general atmosphere is super down to earth and encouraging. There are also so many disciplines to practice, so there's no way to get "bored" with your workouts. Can't recommend this place enough. Definitely a hidden gem of Madison that welcomes people of all backgrounds, all ages, and all fitness levels.Moselle Singh

Iron Pagoda is filled with fun and energetic people and their instructor are very knowledgeable. I would recommend this place to anyone that is looking to start a workout or to continue one with the help from one of the instructors. One other thing if you are looking to take martial arts, Iron Pagoda has three styles, Tai Chi, Southern Praying Mantis, and Eskrima.Iron Pagoda is definitely a place worth checking out.Colton Wetzel

This gym is the best in Madison. And Alicia is an awesome trainer. From 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. Monday Wednesdays and Fridays we're getting it in and getting fit. A good workout is right up there with having great cars. I would highly advise going to this gym over any other gym that I've ever been to In the last 30 years. And I'm 58 years old. Dave, Sarah, Alicia, the whole gang. They are the best.Daniel Schmidt

Our two children have been at Infinity in Middleton for the past three and a half and one and half years, respectively. I cannot say enough good things about the program and the staff. Karate has become a big part of our kids’ lives and has been formative in their development. Our daughter loves physical activity and karate gives her an outlet for her energy and teaches her invaluable skills like self-control, respect for herself and others, and perseverance. She has recently progressed into their black belt training program, and she feels a tremendous sense of accomplishment and pride and sees the rewards of committing to something and working hard. Our son has had some physical challenges since infancy, and the Infinity program has been a highly effective add-on to his therapies. His strength and coordination have improved by leaps and bounds. And the discipline and character principles taught in their classes have helped him develop personal skills that serve him beautifully in his daily life and at school. Karate has helped him catch up developmentally to his peers and has increased his self-confidence. The instructors at Infinity have been amazing with our children. They take interest in each child and really care about their success. They strike the perfect balance between being encouraging and gentle and high expectations for the kids. My background is in education and curriculum development, and I have noticed from the beginning of our time there that the curriculum and methodology at Infinity are well designed and effective. They aren’t just masterful in their sport, but also in their instruction of it, and I know my kids are learning from the best. We've had an overall excellent experience at Infinity and we'd choose them again over and over without hesitation. Highly recommend.Leslie H

I can't speak highly enough of Infinity Martial Arts in Middleton. My family has had a great experience there for 10 years. My older son benefited from learning about focus, respect, and goal setting, and gained the ability to present himself to others with confidence. My younger son began attending when he was 4 years old and has come up through the ranks and is currently a second degree black belt and a member of the nationally-ranked competitive Team Infinity, and is now learning to assist with class instruction. There have been so many opportunities for him and I'm thankful for his instructors who have believed in him and helped him grow and develop. I began taking karate in my forties and am currently on my final step before testing for black belt. The classes have been challenging and fun and there is always a good group to learn with. The instructors are fantastic and gifted at working with different students in a manner that challenges and supports them as individuals. I can't imagine there being a better place to learn the benefits of martial arts.Denise McKinley

Our son has been a student since he was 5 years old. The Little Ninja and Kinder Kickers programs are fantastic to helping instill values of discipline, respect, and responsibility in young kids. The LN and KK program helped to set a great foundation for him as he enters into Level 1 classes now. Being taught by black belts who have come through the program, and seeing demos done by the black belts who are prepping for competitions helps to build the motivation by having to exposure to what the future could look like for a student starting out. I like the way the program integrates parents, instructors, and school teachers in a multi faceted approach to discipline. By partnering together, we've been provided more parenting tools that we use to help guide our son in his home and school lives as well. I would 100% recommend Infinity Martial Arts for any parent or student looking for a good home to learn martial arts!Christine Kuzdas

What a joy-filled and nourishing two weeks of summer Jedi Camp for our daughter! We love how each child in camp is supported and celebrated by the camp leadership and mentors for who they are, in an environment that is the epitome of safe and nurturing. It is beautiful to see the kids immerse themselves in nature and learn to use their senses to guide their play in the woods. Mo is such a positive force, and is someone we hope can be part of our kids’ lives indefinitely!Britta Schoster

Moira has lead various leadership training for staff – ranging from mindfulness practices to leadership development. She executes Professional Development with well thought out processes, and has a way of connecting with people that makes them feel at ease & willing to go outside of their comfort zone. I feel honored to have her on my staff to be able to utilize her talents here in the building, while I know she is sought after by many organizations.Rebecca J Galvan

My daughters have participated in the Jedi Training Summer Camp session for multiple summers. It's always their first request for summer activities! The camp is fun, organized, and a great way to get out and appreciate nature in safe environment. As a parent I love the daily updates with pictures and videos. It makes it so easy to talk to them about what they did or learned that day. We love it and will be back!Melissa Lindemann

Scott Zettek is the owner. First, I'll share how Scott treats his staff. This is what "John Smith" (changed name) said in a previous review: "He's extremely rude to his second-in-command, and his criticism is both derisive and condescending. After a tough day with Scott berating me, I went home and just completely broke down." Today (June of 2022), my son and I went in for him to do an assessment to see where he's at and what he can learn. Scott treated us the exact same way. He kept degrading us over and over, telling us that my son should have learned this, and should know this already, and that his math teacher surely taught it to him. He told me it wasn't right that my son received grade 4/4 on his report card when he doesn't know all of the grade-level material. My son actually did great on what he was taught. That's why he received 4s. I think the pandemic may have affected the material that the math teachers were supposed to teach, and they might not have gotten to all of it. After all, he was almost completely virtual during the last school year, 2020-2021. Regardless, Scott treated us so unkindly. After I got upset and called him out on how he was degrading us over and over, he said, "I want your business, but I don't need your business. We are very successful." I said "That's fine," and left. After we exited the building, my son started crying so hard, feeling so bad about himself, saying he never wants to go back to school. I can say one thing for sure – we will never go back to Mathnasium ever again.Jessica St. Clair

My recent experience at Mathnasium Madison West has been wonderful. The facility is welcoming, bright, clean and carefully designed to allow the students a positive and comfortable environment. The tutors are engaged, patient, and attentive, using encouraging language to ensure constructive and positive communication with children in need of assistance. The management, particularly the owner, Scott, is very knowledgeable, welcoming and accessible. He appears to know most student’s name, greeting them as they enter the facility and takes great care to ensure they have what they need to stay focused and on track with their tailored tutoring program. He is also present at the Madison West location during open hours and reachable, by cell phone, outside of business hours. If you are looking for a tutoring service for your child, you must check this place out!M O

Our daughter is routinely excited for each of her math sessions at Mathnasium. She is disappointed she cannot go more often. She talks non-stop about her lessons. We are so pleased her enthusiasm has continued each week this summer. Our daughter has confidence in her ability to do math! Our daughter has worked with approximately four or so tutors, and she has enjoyed working with them all. The tutors and students appear engaged and focused. We plan to continue visiting Mathnasium during the upcoming school year. Getting caught up on skills, and sustaining confidence, are priorities. The new location is so welcoming, and beautiful. Mathnasium- Madison West fosters a productive learning environment for all.Madison K Family

Our toddler attended this daycare for approximately 6 months. The biggest reason for fewer stars is COST–much more than similar daycare centers in the area. We switched to a different center and are saving $600/month, so it is a big deal. Like other daycare centers, this one has issues with turnover, so we had 3 or 4 changes during our tenure. In the end, we were concerned with the amount of attention the toddlers were receiving because at pick up and drop off, one caregiver was frequently sitting on the ground, not interacting with the children. The menu was another source of consternation for me as the food was the same every week, and was very carb focused, with very little meat. The admin were responsive when we reached out to them, but when I tried emailing the toddler caregivers specifically, I would not hear back.Karla Wetley

Bright Horizons Daycare Center (Madison/Sun Prairie WI) is the BEST! Staff is well trained and absolutely awesome with the kids. After 10+ yrs of not needing daycare I was scared going to check out different centers etc.. The center has a great feel to it, warm environment, and great staff… No complaints at all.. Thank You to ALL staff at Bright Horizons that has so graciously taken care of my son.. Appreciate it! =) <3Aimee Hilsenhoff

Great Preschool and early learning facility! I have 2 children one 3 yrs old and one 4 months old who are enrolled and I couldn't ask for a better place to take them. The staff are wonderful with my kids and the director and education coordinator are great! I would highly recommend.MJ Lens

I go to this library all the time and I love it. The staff is so amazing and kind you can get great books and movies from here. Before the pademic I use to use the study room where it is very quiet, and you can check out a laptop to use while you in the library. They also have great programs for children and adults here. Also way in the back of the library they have a cozy sitting place by the fire place where you can relax and read a book or paper. This library is so unbelieveable and amazing it is like a home away from home.Ditra Comer

I would highly recommend NOT using this Library for meeting rooms and probably not anything at all. They will reserve your room and then cancel you so all of your efforts for your event are wasted. I had spent hundreds on mailing to bring seniors together to help them. However, Seqouya doesn't care about helping people, but they will gladly take your money to rent you a room. Nothing but a cash grab and selfishness.Sean Larson

This is a wonderful branch of the Madison public library system on the West side, situated in a well-travelled shopping center. It is always quiet inside, with courteous staff and patrons. The shelves have a decent selection of newly arrived material. I especially appreciate the electronic self checkout stations, which may have been spurred by the pandemic but are now really efficient ways to check out materials!Andrew Dolan

Beautifully restored and remodeled. It contains a small cafe that leads to a nice, open seating area that is lined with soft chairs, ottomans, and wheeled tables that make a nice desk. Great place to study/read. Not usually busy, either! Classrooms are clean and modern with various layouts.Joel Ondercin

I first start going to Pat's in 2018 as part of a program offered by the company I work for. Some of my coworkers, including my husband were already attending these corporate classes and I've heard a lot of positive reviews. At the beginning it was hard for me because I've never been regular to any gym, and I don't really like working out although I value its importance for my health. The incentive and support from the peers and instructors were what kept me going to Pat's on a regular basis. Roza and Gretchen understood my physical limits, but more important my mental limits and helped me push when I would probably just take it easy, (without getting to the tipping point). My family and friends started making quite a few comments about my muscle gains and how I looked stronger. (I've always been skinny and small so it was very surprising for people to see the improvements). Pat's Gym is a great place for any level and goals you want to achieve.Camila Glodowski

I have been training at Pat’s gym for the last couple of months and it has been an amazing journey. Everyone there is so supportive and knowledgeable, which makes it the perfect environment for great workouts. The workouts are challenging but fun! I like that every time I go in for my personal training sessions I am doing something different. They really listen to your goals and work with you. Also I can not speak highly enough about everyone that works there. They are incredibly welcoming and you immediately feel comfortable there. As someone who would get a little gym shy in the past, that has not been an issue for me here. If you’re looking to invest in your self and your health I would highly recommend going to Pat’s gym.Brynn Kowalefski

As an Ironman triathlete, I've spent most of my past focusing on getting lean for endurance, but Pat's workouts have helped me become so much stronger and physically well balanced for everything in my very active lifestyle. I've been attending group workouts for quite a few years because of how much energy and camaraderie the instructors create. Workouts are never the same, and instructors always help with modifications if you have any limitations or are nursing an injury. Definitely my favorite gym I've ever been to!Ross Glodowski

My daughter has danced with the Vibe teachers for years, and they are talented, committed, and dedicated to giving kids a solid dance foundation–building confidence, teaching teamwork, providing encouragement and an environment allowing students to thrive. The studio is clean, spacious, beautiful. The staff is organized, efficient and excellent at communicating. Class offering is extensive. Couldn't ask for more in a dance studio; highly recommend Vibe.Cathy Mays

My older daughter loves it. When I made suggestions to the studio to better support my younger daughter with disabilities, Vibe was incredibly responsive and made immediate changes. I so appreciated their dedication to helping my child with special needs in addition to teaching my older child new skills.Erin Cheers

We love Vibe. My girls have learned so much from the amazing instructors, but I especially appreciate the positive atmosphere and messages. The studio is beautiful, clean, and spacious which has been especially helpful this year to feel confident sending my girls there.Trisha Pinka

This school has real self defense that provides tools for everyone, no matter how big or small. Master Chris is one of the few masters in town that teaches every white belt kids class. His school is like the boutique of martial arts. He teaches EVERY class and will personally take every student from white belt to the highest belt they can attain. He is continuously growing his knowledge, training with masters in other martial arts across the country to take back to his school and students. Martingilio’s has the techniques that provide women and children the tools to protect themselves in real life situations.TurtleNews McGhee

Master Chris is an excellent instructor – from beginners to experienced and from children to adults. My son has absolutely bloomed during his first 6 months with Master Chris – he’s improved his confidence, coordination, balance, and is loving to learn martial arts. Chris has a background in special education which gives him a unique skill set to help children with special needs learn martial arts. Master Chris’ students respect and admire him, shown by their behavior in class and after when they go give him a hug or handshake!Laura Hubbard

GM Chris Martingilio is going above and beyond to keep his many students and peers around the world training and learning together during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has instructed countless individuals on their path towards mastery of combat-applicable martial arts for over 30 years. He is highly regarded, trusted and respected by his students and fellow instructors. His track record of success speaks for itself. Thank you for all you do, Master Chris.Agnes Maria