location_onDiscover History Maker Space in downtown Madison—a hands-on museum and shop for Wisconsin-made gifts, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly workshops!
If you’re curious about Wisconsin’s past or just looking for a hands-on, family-friendly spot in downtown Madison, the History Maker Space is worth a look. This isn’t your typical museum—it’s a pop-up, interactive space run by the Wisconsin Historical Society while their main History Center is being built. You’ll find it right on the main floor of the U.S. Bank Plaza, with a mix of educational activities, programs for kids, and a welcoming vibe that’s more about participation than passively reading plaques.
What really stands out about the History Maker Space is how it turns history into something you can actually do. From summer camps for kids to hands-on exhibits for all ages, it’s a rare place where the “do not touch” signs are replaced with open invitations to get involved.
Parking: On weekdays, you can park onsite at the U.S. Bank Plaza. On Saturdays, there’s no onsite parking, so plan to use public parking meters or the Capitol Square North Garage at 218 E. Mifflin Street—both are a short walk away. There’s no mention of parking on Sundays, but since the space is closed then, it’s not an issue.
Accessibility: The building is ADA compliant, with two handicapped parking spots near the elevator vestibules. Entryways are accessible, and there’s a wheelchair lift for conference room access. If you have specific needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead to make sure everything’s set up for your visit.
What's the Deal
Best for
Families, school groups, and anyone looking for hands-on history in a casual, interactive setting
Time needed
Plan for 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest in activities and exhibits
Budget range
Free admission; bring extra if you want to pick up something from the gift shop
Worth knowing
This is a temporary space—once the new Wisconsin History Center opens, the Maker Space will likely close or change. It’s a unique chance to catch these programs downtown before they move!
The Shopping Reality
What Sets This Store Apart
The History Maker Space isn’t your standard museum or gift shop. Instead, it’s an educational pop-up that’s all about making history interactive and relevant. Since it’s run by the Wisconsin Historical Society, you get programs and exhibits that are thoughtfully designed for real engagement—think “try it yourself” activities, not just glass cases. The fact that it’s meant to fill the gap while the new Wisconsin History Center is under construction gives it a kind of creative energy you won’t find in more permanent spots.
The Offering
Signature items/services: Interactive exhibits and hands-on history programs, especially for kids—like summer camps and field trips. While specific exhibit names rotate, the focus is always on letting visitors participate, whether that’s through crafts, historical “maker” activities, or educational workshops.
Quality highlights: Programs are run by the same experts behind the Wisconsin Historical Society, so you can expect experienced educators and well-researched material. The space is described as large and bright, with movable chairs and tables that allow for flexible programming and easy group activities.
Range & variety: The offering changes with the calendar—expect everything from drop-in activities for families to structured summer camp sessions. It’s also a go-to spot for local school groups looking for hands-on learning outside the classroom.
The Experience
The interactive, educational atmosphere means you’re encouraged to explore, try things out, and even move the furniture around as needed. It’s a lively space that welcomes kids’ energy, making it ideal for families who want to learn together. The bright room and flexible setup create a casual, inviting vibe—no stuffy museum hush here!
Service reality: Staff and volunteers are described as friendly and knowledgeable, often leading activities or answering questions with enthusiasm. Since the space is designed for engagement, expect a lot of interaction and guidance, especially during programs or group visits.
FYI (For Your Information)
Timing & Logistics
Best times: Mid-mornings or early afternoons Monday through Thursday, when it’s open and crowds are manageable. • Peak periods: Expect more school groups and families during summer camp season and on weekdays when field trips are common. • Seasonal notes: The programming shifts with the school year and summer break, so check the calendar for special events or camps.
What You Need to Know
Booking/Access: Most activities are walk-in, but group visits (like field trips or camps) may require advance arrangements. For the latest on reservations or wait times, it’s best to call ahead.
Payment & Costs: Admission is free. If you want to purchase something from the gift shop, check with staff about accepted payment methods as these aren’t specified online.
Facilities & Amenities: Onsite parking is available weekdays only. The building is ADA accessible, with handicapped parking and a wheelchair lift. Restroom locations and quality aren’t detailed, so ask staff if you need them.
Preparation: No dress code—just wear something comfortable for hands-on activities. There aren’t age restrictions, but it’s especially geared towards kids and families. If you’re coming with a group, call ahead to coordinate.
Final Assessment
Overall Recommendation
Bottom Line: The History Maker Space is a rare, hands-on history hub right in downtown Madison. It’s a perfect fit for families and educators looking for something interactive and free, but its temporary nature means you shouldn’t wait if you want to experience it. The flexible, bright environment and friendly staff make it approachable for all ages. Just keep in mind the weekday-only hours and the fact that permanent museum-style exhibits aren’t the focus here.
Best For
Families with kids who love hands-on learning
School groups, educators, and anyone curious about Wisconsin’s history in a relaxed setting
If you’re craving a deep-dive museum experience with major permanent installations, you’ll want to check out the new Wisconsin History Center when it opens. But for now, the History Maker Space is a lively, accessible way to get involved with history—especially if you enjoy learning by doing. It’s a limited-time opportunity, so take advantage while it lasts!
