Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Madison, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Madison, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America by month

January

January in Madison is unbearably cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) to 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Madison in February, you will notice that it can be extremely cold and snowy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Madison is brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows sometimes. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Madison in April, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Madison during May, you might notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

In June, Madison is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Madison, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Madison is hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Madison is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Madison is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you visit Madison during October, you will probably find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Madison is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows sometimes. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Madison is frosty, snowy and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Madison. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America

Madison, Wisconsin, is one of the most picturesque and unique cities in the United States of America. Known for its scenic lakes, stunning parks, and numerous cultural institutions, Madison is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Madison, Wisconsin, that you shouldn't miss on your next visit:

1. The Wisconsin State Capitol

The Wisconsin State Capitol building is a magnificent structure that dominates the city's skyline. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madison, Wisconsin, and offers a breathtaking view of the city. The building, which was built in 1917, is open to the public and is free to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Capitol's interior, which is decorated with murals, stained-glass windows, and other artwork.

2. The Chazen Museum of Art

The Chazen Museum of Art is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Madison, Wisconsin. It is home to a vast collection of art from around the world and features exhibits that range from ancient to contemporary art. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and other events that are open to the public.

3. The Henry Vilas Zoo

The Henry Vilas Zoo is one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Madison, Wisconsin. The zoo is home to over 800 animals from around the world, and visitors can explore its numerous exhibits and attractions, including the Arctic Passage, the African Savanna, and the Tropical Rainforest.

4. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens

The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are a stunning, 16-acre oasis located in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin. The gardens feature numerous outdoor exhibits, including rock gardens, rose gardens, and a Thai pavilion. Visitors can explore the gardens on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the plants and flowers that grow there.

5. The University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the most renowned institutions of higher learning in the United States. It is home to a vast array of museums, galleries, and cultural centers, including the Wisconsin Historical Society, the Geology Museum, and the Wisconsin Alumni Association. Visitors can explore the university's numerous attractions and learn more about its history and culture.

6. The Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center

The Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center is located on the shores of Lake Monona and is one of the most popular event spaces in Madison, Wisconsin. The center boasts stunning views of the city and is home to numerous cultural events, conferences, and festivals throughout the year.

In conclusion, Madison, Wisconsin is an impressive place to visit. From the State Capitol to the Monona Terrace Convention Center, the city has numerous impressive tourist attractions to offer visitors. The listed attractions are the top-rated tourist destinations in Madison, Wisconsin, that you shouldn't miss on your next visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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