10 Fun Things To Do Near Sun Prairie, Wisconsin (Dane County)
If you’re looking for a laid-back getaway in southern Wisconsin,
Sun Prairie is a great place to start. This friendly city just northeast of Madison mixes small-town charm with easy access to big-city fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or you live nearby and need ideas, there are plenty of things to do in and around Sun Prairie.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Sun Prairie, WI, all within an easy drive in Dane County (and just beyond).
1. Stroll, Shop & Snack in Downtown Sun Prairie
Downtown Sun Prairie feels like the kind of place where everyone still says hello when you walk by. It’s compact, walkable, and full of local flavor.
What you can do:
- Browse local shops for gifts, antiques, and Wisconsin-made goodies.
- Grab a coffee or ice cream and enjoy a slow walk down Main Street.
- Check out murals and small public art pieces tucked along side streets.
If you like “classic Main Street” vibes, you’ll enjoy downtown Sun Prairie. It’s an easy place to park once, walk around, and just see where the day takes you.
2. Visit the Historic Sun Prairie State Bank Clock Tower
Right in the heart of downtown you’ll spot the
Sun Prairie State Bank clock tower. It’s one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and gives the area a nostalgic, old-town feel.
Why stop here?
- It’s a great photo spot and an easy landmark when meeting friends.
- You can pair a quick look with nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- It’s a fun add-on if you’re exploring Sun Prairie on foot.
Is it an all-day attraction? No. But it’s part of the charm that makes downtown Sun Prairie feel special and rooted in history.
3. Get Outside at Wetmore Park
If you’re traveling with kids—or you just want a quiet place to relax—
Wetmore Park is one of Sun Prairie’s most popular green spaces.
What you’ll find:
- Open lawns perfect for tossing a football or frisbee.
- Playground areas for younger kids.
- Walking paths and shady spots to sit and recharge.
In warmer months, the park often hosts
local events and concerts. On a sunny day, it’s an easy place to unwind, picnic, or just stretch your legs after a long drive.
4. Cool Off at the Sun Prairie Aquatic Center
When Wisconsin finally heats up, you feel it. That’s when the
Sun Prairie Family Aquatic Center becomes one of the best places in town.
Here’s what makes it fun:
- Outdoor pool with plenty of space to swim and splash.
- Water slides and play areas that kids love.
- Lounge chairs so adults can relax in the sun or shade.
If you’re visiting in summer, pack your swimsuit and plan at least a couple of hours here. It’s a classic, no-fuss family activity that doesn’t require a long drive.
5. Explore the Sun Prairie Dream Park (Carriage Hills Park)
The
Sun Prairie Dream Park is one of those playgrounds that kids remember long after vacation ends. It’s a large, castle-like wooden play structure designed with imagination in mind.
Highlights:
- Huge wooden playground with towers, bridges, and secret corners.
- Plenty of space to run, climb, and burn off energy.
- Benches and open areas for parents and grandparents to relax.
If you’re road-tripping through Wisconsin with kids, this is a great place for a break. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s one of the most beloved spots in Sun Prairie.
6. Experience Sun Prairie Corn Fest (Seasonal)
If your trip lines up with late summer, you might catch one of the city’s signature events: the
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival. It’s a classic Wisconsin small-town festival with a tasty twist.
What to expect:
- Loads of fresh sweet corn, often all-you-can-eat style.
- Carnival rides and family-friendly entertainment.
- Live music, food vendors, and beer tents.
Events like Corn Fest give you a real feel for local culture. If you’re planning travel in August, check the dates and consider building your visit around this festival.
7. Take a Short Drive to Downtown Madison & State Street
One big perk of staying in or near Sun Prairie is how close you are to
Madison, the state capital. In about 20–25 minutes, you can go from small-town calm to lively city streets.
Don’t miss:
- State Street – A pedestrian-friendly stretch full of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
- Wisconsin State Capitol – Free tours, beautiful architecture, and great city views from the observation deck.
- Local cafes and bars that show off Madison’s college-town energy.
If you like to mix quiet nights with more energetic days, Sun Prairie makes a great home base while you explore Madison.
8. Walk the Wisconsin State Capitol & Farmers’ Market (Madison)
Speaking of Madison, the
Capitol Square is worth its own mention. The building is impressive, but the area around it is just as fun—especially on weekends.
Things to do:
- Tour the Capitol and walk through its grand halls and rotunda.
- Visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market (seasonal), one of the largest producers-only markets in the country.
- Snack your way around the square with cheese curds, baked goods, and fresh produce.
If you’re into local food and culture, spending a Saturday morning at the market, then heading back to the quieter pace of Sun Prairie, makes for a perfect day.
9. Relax by the Lakes: Mendota & Monona
One thing that surprises many visitors is how many lakes are near Sun Prairie and Madison. Two of the biggest are
Lake Mendota and
Lake Monona.
What you can do by the water:
- Take a walk along lakeside trails and enjoy the views.
- Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard in Madison during warmer months.
- Enjoy a lakeside meal at one of the many restaurants and patios.
In summer, the lakes are great for boating and sunsets. In winter, you may see ice fishing shanties dotting the surface. It’s a true Wisconsin experience either way.
10. Explore Dane County’s Parks & Trails
If you love the outdoors, there are several
Dane County parks and trails within an easy drive of Sun Prairie.
A few ideas:
- Head to a nearby county park for hiking, bird-watching, and picnics.
- Bring a bike and ride along local paths that wind through fields and wooded areas.
- Visit in fall to soak in classic Midwest autumn colors—reds, oranges, and golds everywhere.
The nice thing about staying in Sun Prairie is that you’re close to both city attractions and peaceful natural spots, without a long drive either way.
Planning Your Trip to Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Sun Prairie is a comfortable, easygoing place to visit. You can:
- Spend a day exploring local parks, downtown, and events.
- Use it as a home base while you visit Madison and the surrounding lakes.
- Mix low-key afternoons in Sun Prairie with more energetic evenings in the city.
If you’re looking for things to do near Sun Prairie, WI, you’ll find a nice balance: family-friendly parks, fun seasonal festivals, and big-city experiences just a short drive away.
What Would You Add to This Sun Prairie Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
Sun Prairie or Dane County?
Do you have a favorite local restaurant, park, or hidden gem that didn’t make this list?
I’d love to hear from you.
Share your tips, questions, or stories about Sun Prairie in the comments below.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to southern Wisconsin—it might help them plan their own Sun Prairie adventure.
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