UW-Madison Continuing Studies

Experience breathtaking scenery and landmarks, behind-the-scenes insight from experienced guides, and world-class performances

From four-day weekends to several weeks overseas, our educational cultural tours focus on performing arts, theatre, visual arts, history, and archaeology. These trips provide you with unique and enriching travel experiences with no planning required from you and none of the typical travel hassles along the way. We schedule plenty of free time for you to shop, rest, or pursue your own interests.

Doug Whittle is the Director of UW-Madison Educational Travel. He served for two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zaire and has traveled independently in Asia, Africa, Europe and throughout Central and North America. In the past nine years he has led more than 50 UW-Madison Educational Travel trips spanning five continents. Email Doug or call him at 608-263-7787.

Spoleto Festival USA

Join us for an extraordinary weekend of performances by some of the world’s most accomplished musicians, actors, dancers, and artists. Unlike any other destination in the USA, Charleston, South Carolina comes alive for three weeks every summer for Spoleto Festival. We'll be there for an entire weekend of the best that the festival has to offer!

When: May 31-Jun 3
Cost: $1,449 plus airfare
Complete info and register»

Shaw Festival

Join UW-Madison as we return to one of the continent’s most delightful towns, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, for the unparalleled theatre experience of the Shaw Festival. Join us for what New York Magazine calls “North America’s premier repertory company,” and see for yourself why this is our most popular trip every year.

When: Sep 6-9
Cost: $1,599 plus airfare
Complete info and register»

Discovering Quebec

This trip focuses on the rich history and culture of Quebec. Learn about its French settlements and first nations, and experience dynamic Montreal. Sites include Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint-Joseph's Oratory, Fort Stewart, Quebec City, Chateau Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham. Montmorency Falls, the Ile d'Orléans, and the scenic Beaupré Coast conclude our tour.

When: Sep 14-21
Cost: $2,440
Complete info»

Turkey: History, Culture and Religion

Join UW-Madison for our return visit to the crossroads of civilization: Turkey! A place like no other, Turkey will fascinate you, surprise you and, ultimately, seduce you. With unrivaled historical and archaeological sites of interest, outstanding religious and secular architecture, natural beauty, cultural variety and geological wonders, Turkey is an unparalleled destination.

When: Oct 27-Nov 13
Cost: $5,699
Complete info and register»