University of Wisconsin Space Place

About this museum

Spark your curiosity about the cosmos at the University of Wisconsin Space Place, a welcoming science outreach center in Madison that makes astronomy accessible to visitors of all ages. Admission is free, putting the wonders of the universe within reach of every family, student, and space enthusiast in the area.Located inside the Villager Shopping Center, Space Place may surprise newcomers with its unassuming storefront location - but the exhibits inside are anything but ordinary. Interactive displays invite hands - on exploration of planets, stars, and the physics that govern our solar system. Kids can engage with tactile exhibits while adults dive deeper into topics ranging from spectroscopy to satellite imaging. The center hosts regular Kids' Science Saturday events that combine demonstrations, activities, and guided learning in a format that consistently delights young visitors and their parents alike.Run by the University of Wisconsin - Madison's astronomy department, Space Place benefits from direct connections to active scientific research. Exhibits are designed by people who study the universe professionally, lending an authenticity and depth that sets this venue apart from typical children's science centers. It is small enough to feel personal yet rich enough to warrant repeat visits, especially as programming changes with the seasons.The University of Wisconsin Space Place is located at 2300 S Park St, Suite 100, Madison, WI 53713. Accessible parking and a barrier - free entrance are available. Check spaceplace.wisc.edu for current hours and upcoming event schedules.Among the many things to do in Madison, this free museum and science center stands out as a destination where learning feels like play. Whether you are a lifelong stargazer or introducing a child to the night sky for the first time, Space Place offers a down - to - earth gateway to the extraordinary universe above us.