view facing Madison on Lake Monona
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Monona Bay and Brittingham Park

4.6
·542 reviews·Madison, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene sunrises & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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view facing Madison on Lake Monona

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene sunrises & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(542 reviews)

"Two playgrounds in one area!! 3 mile loop around the lake. Community garden flowers were poppin!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Accessible Playgrounds

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

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

Community Garden Blooms

Near the park entrance

Vibrant community garden plots bursting with colorful flowers, offering a picturesque backdrop.

Sunset & Sunrise Views

Sunset & Sunrise Views

Along the bay shoreline

Breathtaking panoramic views of the sun dipping below or rising above the water.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Sunsets & Sunrises

Catching the golden hour at Monona Bay and Brittingham Park is a must. Early mornings and late evenings offer stunning views and fewer crowds. It's the perfect time for a peaceful stroll or to enjoy a quiet moment by the water.

Embrace the Outdoors: Activities Galore

From playgrounds to volleyball and even ice fishing in winter, this park offers year-round fun. Pack your gear for ultimate frisbee, bring a picnic for the gazebo, or simply enjoy the scenic 3-mile loop around the bay.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Serene sunrises & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Spectacular sunsets & golden hour
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Ice fishing opportunities
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s #Friday and we will have mariachi from 6-9pm for #dinner tonight! #serving #CasaZaragoza #MadisonWI
@casa.zaragoza
2.7K likes • 40K views

🎯 Two Playgrounds for Double Fun

Discover two distinct playgrounds, one with an accessible 'course' for varied play options! :child: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic 3-Mile Loop

Enjoy a beautiful 3-mile paved path around Monona Bay, perfect for walks or bike rides. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Come tour a Madison Park apartment with me! This was a 1 bed 1 bath and was around $2300 per month. #apartmenttour #fyp
@littletingssss
1.4K likes • 38.7K views
Team work makes the dream work! Join us tonight at 6pm at Brittingham Park for WORTH Bootcamp. We train come shine or rain! #worthpersonaltraining #worthbootcamp
peterkrausfitness
309 likes • 0 views

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Don't miss the stunning sunsets and sunrises over Monona Bay for incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash: Reddit

🎣 Year-Round Fishing

From open water to ice fishing, Monona Bay offers angling opportunities throughout the year. :fishingpoleand_வத: Reddit

Just ran the Aruna Run with my daughter Danite! Running to Free women that are being trafficked. End human slavery! #arunarun #endslavery #madisonwi #madisonarunarun #fatherdaughter
travagnew
34 likes • 0 views

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: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic 3-Mile Loop

Enjoy a beautiful 3-mile paved path around Monona Bay, perfect for walks or bike rides. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Don't miss the stunning sunsets and sunrises over Monona Bay for incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash: Reddit

🎣 Year-Round Fishing

From open water to ice fishing, Monona Bay offers angling opportunities throughout the year. :fishingpoleand_வத: Reddit

🐦 Birdwatching Paradise

Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including sandhill cranes, in this natural setting. :bird: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(542 reviews)

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

Accessible playgrounds
Scenic lake loop
Community garden beauty

What People Dislike

No concessions

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. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Brittingham Park, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are very bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and a scenic 3-mile loop around the bay. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The park offers stunning opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset over Monona Bay. The community garden also provides colorful subjects. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available within the park. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

The park has two fire pits, which can be used for gatherings and potentially for cooking, weather and park regulations permitting. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Reddit

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at the park. Reddit

Look for the sandhill cranes and other birdlife for wildlife photography. The accessible playground's unique design also offers interesting shots. Reddit

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. Reddit

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👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park is a dream for families! With two distinct playgrounds, including a highly praised accessible play area with a fun 'course,' there's entertainment for every child. The 3-mile loop is perfect for strollers or little legs on bikes. Reddit

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

For those looking to stay active, Brittingham Park offers a fantastic 3-mile paved loop around Monona Bay, ideal for running, jogging, or cycling. Instagram The park also features sand volleyball courts and open spaces frequently used for ultimate frisbee, providing opportunities for group sports and casual games. Reddit

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

Monona Bay is a popular spot for fishing throughout the year. Whether you enjoy casting a line in the warmer months or braving the cold for ice fishing in the winter, this bay offers opportunities for anglers. Reddit

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

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are notable for their commitment to inclusivity, featuring not one, but two distinct playgrounds. One of these playgrounds is specifically designed to be accessible, incorporating features that allow children of all abilities to play together. This includes ramps and a unique 'course' that resembles a 'floor is lava' game, providing engaging challenges for older kids as well. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park are vibrant hubs of activity throughout the year. During warmer months, the park buzzes with families enjoying picnics under the large gazebo, children playing on the playgrounds, and individuals utilizing the sand volleyball courts or open fields for ultimate frisbee. The 3-mile loop around Monona Bay is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking, offering scenic views of the water. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

Monona Bay and Brittingham Park offer a picturesque setting for photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The expansive views across the bay provide a stunning canvas for capturing the changing colors of the sky. Photographers can find excellent vantage points along the 3-mile loop, offering unobstructed views of the water and horizon. Reddit

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. Reddit

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.

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