
Monona Bay and Brittingham Park
A vibrant lakeside park with accessible playgrounds, scenic trails, and year-round activities from picnics to ice fishing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene sunrises & fewer crowds

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park
Best Time
Serene sunrises & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant lakeside park with accessible playgrounds, scenic trails, and year-round activities from picnics to ice fishing.
"Two playgrounds in one area!! 3 mile loop around the lake. Community garden flowers were poppin!"

🎯 Two Playgrounds for Double Fun
Discover two distinct playgrounds, one with an accessible 'course' for varied play options! :child:
🚶♀️ Scenic 3-Mile Loop
Enjoy a beautiful 3-mile paved path around Monona Bay, perfect for walks or bike rides. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Accessible Playgrounds
Multiple locations within the park
Innovative, accessible play areas cater to all ages and abilities, ensuring fun for every child.
Monona Bay Lake Loop
Circumference of Monona Bay
A scenic 3-mile paved path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking with beautiful bay views.

Community Garden Blooms
Near the park entrance
Vibrant community garden plots bursting with colorful flowers, offering a picturesque backdrop.
Sunset & Sunrise Views
Along the bay shoreline
Breathtaking panoramic views of the sun dipping below or rising above the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunsets & Sunrises
Embrace the Outdoors: Activities Galore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Two Playgrounds for Double Fun
Discover two distinct playgrounds, one with an accessible 'course' for varied play options! :child:
🚶♀️ Scenic 3-Mile Loop
Enjoy a beautiful 3-mile paved path around Monona Bay, perfect for walks or bike rides. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Don't miss the stunning sunsets and sunrises over Monona Bay for incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash:
🎣 Year-Round Fishing
From open water to ice fishing, Monona Bay offers angling opportunities throughout the year. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Two Playgrounds for Double Fun
Discover two distinct playgrounds, one with an accessible 'course' for varied play options! :child:
🚶♀️ Scenic 3-Mile Loop
Enjoy a beautiful 3-mile paved path around Monona Bay, perfect for walks or bike rides. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Don't miss the stunning sunsets and sunrises over Monona Bay for incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash:
🎣 Year-Round Fishing
From open water to ice fishing, Monona Bay offers angling opportunities throughout the year. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including sandhill cranes, in this natural setting. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's dual playgrounds, especially the accessible features, and the scenic 3-mile loop around Monona Bay. The community garden's beauty and the opportunities for year-round fishing are also frequently highlighted. Some minor drawbacks include the lack of on-site concessions.
"Two playgrounds in one area!! 3 mile loop around the lake. Community garden flowers were poppin!"
Steph C
"A very nice park along Monona Bay with parking, playground and of course, the Bay. In the spring of 2022, Madison's city parks on lake shores are trying to deter the gathering of geese on park lands by adding a coyote intently looking out on the water in each park. Each coyote has a fake fur tail that can move in the wind. From a distance, they look quite real. The park also is the first of the over 260 city parks to have an accessible playground. Many birds can be seen in the park including sandhill cranes."
Craig W
"They have two playgrounds on opposite ends of the park..
They have two fire pits.
Do you have a very big gazebo great for all kinds of events family get-togethers for picnics.
It's a great place to see all kinds of neat things to even watch things on the lake fishing all year round ice fishing.
They have sand volleyball courts out there.
They have a field been used periodically for people practicing ultimate Frisbee.
And I'm literally enjoying to drink a cup of coffee or tea and watch every sunset and sunrise ..
You gotta love it!!!"
ʙʀʏᴀɴ WOBIG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by car, with parking available. It's also a popular spot for biking, with many cyclists using the paths to commute or explore Madison. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, there is parking available at Brittingham Park, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are very bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and a scenic 3-mile loop around the bay.
The park has a large gazebo that's great for events, and community gatherings like the Good Neighbor Gathering have been held here. It's worth checking local event listings for any upcoming activities.
While specific routes can vary, Madison's public transport system generally serves its parks. It's recommended to check the Madison Metro Transit website for the most up-to-date information on bus routes that stop near Monona Bay and Brittingham Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are public parks and do not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific facilities like restrooms might have limited hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Madison Parks website for any specific advisories.
While the park has a large gazebo that's great for events, it's usually first-come, first-served for general use. For larger gatherings or guaranteed use of the gazebo, you might need to inquire about reservation options with the Madison Parks Department.
Entry to the park itself is free. If there are specific organized events like concerts or festivals held at the park, those might have separate ticketing requirements, but this is not typical for general park use.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Monona Bay year-round, including ice fishing during the winter months. Remember to check Wisconsin fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include two distinct playgrounds (one accessible), a 3-mile loop for walking/biking, a community garden, fire pits, a large gazebo, and beautiful views of Monona Bay.
Yes, the park features two playgrounds. One is particularly notable for its accessible design and 'course' for older kids, ensuring fun for a wide range of ages and abilities.
You can enjoy walking, jogging, biking on the 3-mile loop, playing on the playgrounds, picnicking, fishing, birdwatching, and even playing sand volleyball or ultimate frisbee.
Absolutely! The park offers stunning opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset over Monona Bay. The community garden also provides colorful subjects.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the park itself. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
The park is located in Madison, WI, which has a vibrant food scene. You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars a short drive or bike ride away, offering a variety of cuisines.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Monona Bay and Brittingham Park. There are open spaces and a large gazebo that are perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
The park has two fire pits, which can be used for gatherings and potentially for cooking, weather and park regulations permitting.
Madison offers a diverse culinary landscape, from casual eateries and food trucks to upscale dining. You can find everything from local Wisconsin fare to international cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline of Monona Bay offers the best vantage points for capturing stunning sunsets and sunrises. The community garden also provides colorful and vibrant backdrops.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at the park.
Look for the sandhill cranes and other birdlife for wildlife photography. The accessible playground's unique design also offers interesting shots.
Drone usage in city parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and ensure public safety. It's crucial to check the official Madison Parks Department regulations regarding drone operation before flying one in the park.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. A tripod is highly recommended for capturing sharp images during sunrise and sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the gazebo or one of the open grassy areas. The park also features fire pits, which can add an extra element of fun for family gatherings. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site.
🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Fitness Enthusiasts
Fitness groups, like the one mentioned in a social media post, sometimes host outdoor bootcamps here, taking advantage of the scenic and spacious environment. It's a great place to combine exercise with beautiful lake views.
🎣 Anglers & Winter Sports Fans
For those who enjoy winter activities beyond ice fishing, the park's open spaces can be suitable for sledding or simply enjoying a brisk walk in a picturesque, frozen landscape. The accessibility of the park makes it easy to enjoy these seasonal pastimes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Accessible Playgrounds
This thoughtful design ensures that families with children of varying ages and physical capabilities can find enjoyment and shared experiences within the park. The presence of two separate play areas also helps to distribute crowds and offers different play experiences, catering to diverse preferences.
The innovative design of the accessible playground is a significant draw for families, making it a standout feature of the park and a testament to the city's dedication to creating welcoming public spaces.
Year-Round Activities: From Picnics to Ice Fishing
As the seasons change, so do the activities. The park is a fantastic location for birdwatching, with various species, including sandhill cranes, frequently spotted. Anglers will appreciate that Monona Bay is a prime spot for fishing year-round, transitioning from open-water fishing to ice fishing as winter sets in. This makes the park a destination for outdoor enthusiasts regardless of the weather.
The park's versatility ensures there's always something to do, whether you're looking for a leisurely afternoon stroll, an active day of sports, or a unique winter adventure like ice fishing. The community garden also adds a splash of color and life to the park's landscape.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Monona Bay
Beyond the landscapes, the park is also a great spot for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including the majestic sandhill cranes, which can provide unique and captivating subjects. The vibrant community garden also offers a colorful and textured environment for close-up shots or scenic compositions.
For the best results, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset to ensure sharp, high-quality images. The park's diverse elements, from natural beauty to recreational activities, make it a rewarding location for photographers of all levels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit