Disability-Friendly Activities for Young Adults with Disabilities in Madison, WI

As the CEO of the Ability Resource Center, I’m thrilled to be writing the very first blog for our newly redesigned website! My husband, Art, and I have been proud residents of Madison for many years. Both of us attended UW-Madison, and we chose to stay here to build our careers and continue being part of this amazing community.

One of the things I love most about Madison is the wide variety of places and activities that are accessible and welcoming to young adults with disabilities. I wanted to share my personal top picks—places that I believe deserve an A+ rating for inclusivity, accessibility, and overall enjoyment.

Here are my favorite disability-friendly spots in Madison:

Dane County Farmers Market on the Square

A perfect place to enjoy the local produce, crafts, and a lively atmosphere.

Overture Center for the Arts

Offers a range of accessible performances and events that are great for everyone.

Wingra Boat Rentals

A fantastic option for those who love being out on the water with accessible boat rental options.

Memorial Union Terrace

A Madison classic, where everyone can soak in the lakeside views, and the accessibility makes it even better.

MyArts Center

This creative space is great for engaging with the arts in an inclusive environment.

Ian’s Pizza on State Street

It’s not just the pizza that makes Ian’s a favorite, but the friendly, welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Nitty Gritty Birthday Bar

A Madison tradition for celebrations, with an inclusive and fun environment.

The Original Madison Ghost Tour Walk

Accessible tours that share the spooky history of our city.

Wisco Fitness BarBell Club

A gym focused on inclusivity and making fitness accessible for all.

Harmony Bar & Grill

A neighborhood gem with good food, music, and a welcoming vibe.

Weary Traveler Freehouse

A cozy, relaxed spot that makes everyone feel at home.

These places truly reflect the spirit of Madison—friendly, inclusive, and full of opportunities to have fun!

Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite disability-friendly spots in Madison? Send me your recommendations, and I’ll be sure to add them to this blog. Let’s keep building a community where everyone can enjoy the best of what our city has to offer.

Let’s have fun!

Dedra Hafner