Spring is finally here! Are you eager to get outside and enjoy the nicer weather with family, friends, coworkers, etc.? Here are five free spring activities that are available to you in Madison, Wisconsin:

1. Henry Vilas Zoo
Henry Villas Zoo, located at 702 S Randall Ave, is a 28-acre zoo that is free to the public. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Conservation Carousel and Zoo Train are currently closed for winter rides, but they will resume operation in mid to late March 2022. The zoo has both indoor and outdoor exhibits.

2. Concerts on the Square
Concerts on the Square will be located on the King Street corner of the Capitol Square. These concerts will be coming back this spring/summer starting June 29th! Six concerts will be performed on Wednesday evenings at 7 pm from June 29th – August 3rd. For more information about these upcoming concerts, visit: https://wcoconcerts.org/concerts-tickets/concerts-on-the-square.

3. University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum
The Arboretum is located at 1207 Seminole Highway and is open to the public daily from 4:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Here you can explore prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and gardens in all seasons. There are also tours, classes, and other programs available. From March 20th – May 29th the arboretum will be offering spring nature hikes!

4. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Olbrich Botanical Gardens, located at 3330 Atwood Ave, is open to the public daily from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The outdoor gardens feature 16 acres of beautiful landscape and Midwest-hardy plants. The tropical Bolz Conservatory – filled with exotic plants, orchids, birds, and a waterfall – is free to all on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

5. Dane County Farmer’s Market on the Square
The Dane County Farmer’s Market will be held at the Capitol Square starting on Saturday, April 16th. This weekly outdoor market will run on Saturdays from 6:15 a.m. – 1:45 p.m from April 16th – November 12th. Some foods you can expect to see at the market include bakery, meat & dairy, cheese, vegetables, fruits, plants, and some other specialties including dog bones, salsa, nuts, hummus, etc.