Our visit to GLEAM was hosted in exchange for content, but all opinions are my own—and I highly recommend it!
We went to GLEAM at Olbrich Botanical Gardens last year and knew we wanted to go back to check out the new art installations this year. And after going again, I can confirm: it is SO cool. This has become an annual family favorite.
If you're looking for unique things to do in Madison this fall, GLEAM is definitely one to add to your list.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens completely changes after dark for GLEAM, with large-scale light installations throughout the 16-acre Gardens and tropical Bolz Conservatory. The installations are created by local, regional and international designers, so you're seeing some really unique pieces that you aren't going to find anywhere else around Madison.
And you can explore it completely at your own pace. Walk around, stop at whatever catches your eye, take pictures, let the kids check things out and keep moving. There's no show you have to sit through or schedule you have to follow—other than selecting your ticket time.
Honestly, this is one of those activities that feels like something you'd find while on vacation and think, “Wow, that was really cool and memorable.”
Except it's right here in our own backyard.
GLEAM runs Wednesday–Saturday evenings through October 24, 2026.
š Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison
šļø Tickets are required. Check Olbrich's GLEAM website for current ticket information.
