
Monona Terrace
A Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece on Lake Monona, offering stunning architecture and panoramic city views from its rooftop garden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & pleasant temps

Monona Terrace
Best Time
Live music & pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece on Lake Monona, offering stunning architecture and panoramic city views from its rooftop garden.
"The building's architecture is stunning, with Frank Lloyd Wright’s design giving it such a unique charm."

🚗 Parking Woes
Parking can be difficult; consider rideshare or public transport. Be cautious of car break-ins. :car:
🚶♀️ Explore the Rooftop
Don't miss the stunning lake views from the rooftop garden. Great for photos! :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rooftop Garden Views
Rooftop
Breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline. Perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture
Throughout the building
Experience the iconic curvilinear design and unique spaces envisioned by the legendary architect.

Concerts on the Rooftop
Rooftop
Enjoy live music with a stunning backdrop during summer evenings. A popular local event.

Lake Monona Promenade
Lakeside
A beautiful area for a stroll, offering great views and access to the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Frank Lloyd Wright Vision
Parking Pointers & Crowd Control
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking can be difficult; consider rideshare or public transport.
Be cautious of car break-ins. :car:🚶♀️ Explore the Rooftop
Don't miss the stunning lake views from the rooftop garden. Great for photos! :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright's unique design. Guided tours offer great insights. :classical_building:
🎶 Summer Concerts
Check the schedule for 'Concerts on the Rooftop' for live music. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking can be difficult; consider rideshare or public transport.
Be cautious of car break-ins. :car:🚶♀️ Explore the Rooftop
Don't miss the stunning lake views from the rooftop garden. Great for photos! :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Architectural Gem
Appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright's unique design. Guided tours offer great insights. :classical_building:
🎶 Summer Concerts
Check the schedule for 'Concerts on the Rooftop' for live music. :musical_note:
🛍️ Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop features Frank Lloyd Wright memorabilia. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Monona Terrace is widely praised for its stunning Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and breathtaking rooftop views of Lake Monona and the city skyline. Visitors appreciate the unique design and the pleasant atmosphere for strolling and events. However, some find the building's layout confusing to navigate, and parking can be a significant issue during busy periods.
"First time visiting Monona Terrace and it was such a beautiful experience! The building’s architecture is stunning, with Frank Lloyd Wright’s design giving it such a unique charm. The views of Lake Monona from the rooftop garden are absolutely breathtaking—perfect spot for photos and just soaking in the scenery. Everything felt clean, well-maintained, and welcoming. I also loved how close it is to the Capitol building, making it easy to explore both in one trip. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Madison!"
Venita Nance
"A fine convention center with a nice view but finding your way around this building just sucks so bad. Queues for all the elevators, hidden staircases, bathrooms are miles away from everything else. The lake view is nice but this place took my opinion of Frank Lloyd Wright from 'decent architect' to 'bumbling idiot' real quick"
Alex Locke
"A nice spot to stop to check out the lake. They have a water fountain and a huge seating area/event area on the roof as well as a Cafe. Good views of the lake from the terrace. Didn't get a chance to see the inside of the building though."
M Lewis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monona Terrace is located at 1 John Nolen Drive in Madison, WI. It's easily accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly during events.
Many visitors recommend rideshares or public transport due to parking challenges.Yes, Monona Terrace has an on-site parking garage. However, reviews suggest it can fill up rapidly, especially during events. Some visitors have experienced issues with parking availability and security, recommending alternative transport.
For convenience and to avoid parking hassles, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or utilizing Madison's public bus system. This is often recommended by locals and visitors alike.
If you are staying in downtown Madison, Monona Terrace is within walking distance, offering a pleasant stroll along the lakefront.
Yes, several Madison Metro bus routes stop near Monona Terrace, making it accessible for those relying on public transportation. Check the Madison Metro website for specific route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to Monona Terrace for sightseeing and enjoying the architecture is typically free. However, specific events, concerts, or tours may require tickets.
Monona Terrace is generally open to the public daily, but hours can vary depending on scheduled events and conferences. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours.
Yes, guided tours are often available, offering a deeper dive into the building's history and Frank Lloyd Wright's design. Check the Monona Terrace website for tour schedules and booking information.
Access to the rooftop garden for general viewing is typically included with your visit to Monona Terrace and does not require a separate admission fee, unless part of a ticketed event.
Monona Terrace is a popular venue for conventions, weddings, and other events. Information on booking and catering can be found on their official website.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop garden offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Monona and the Capitol building, making it a prime photography location.
The unique architecture throughout the building also provides excellent opportunities for striking shots.Drone usage is typically restricted in public spaces and around convention centers for safety and privacy reasons. It's advisable to check Monona Terrace's specific policies regarding drone photography before flying.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, some exhibits or private events might have specific restrictions. Always be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the architecture and lake views.
Weekday mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.The sweeping curves of the building against the lake backdrop, the rooftop garden with its floral displays, and the views of the Wisconsin State Capitol are all iconic photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Monona Terrace features dining options, including a cafe and sometimes a restaurant, offering convenient choices for visitors.
The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace also has onsite dining.Dining options typically include casual fare, snacks, and beverages. For more extensive dining, the adjacent Hilton hotel offers additional choices.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally acceptable to bring light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption in public areas. However, formal picnics might not be permitted. Check with the venue for specifics.
Yes, there is a cafe located within Monona Terrace, providing a place to grab coffee, snacks, and light meals.
The area surrounding Monona Terrace in downtown Madison offers a wide array of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. The Dane County Farmers' Market is also nearby for local produce and food vendors.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, enjoy the rooftop garden views, attend events like concerts or conferences, and explore the gift shop.
Yes, the promenade along the lake and the expansive rooftop offer pleasant walking paths. The building itself is also interesting to navigate, though some find it confusing.
Restrooms are available throughout the facility. Some reviews mention they can be a bit of a walk from certain areas.
Monona Terrace can be family-friendly, especially for enjoying the views and attending public events. However, the complex layout might be challenging with very young children.
Monona Terrace hosts a variety of events, including conventions, conferences, weddings, concerts, art fairs, and community gatherings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ Architecture Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright
Visitors often marvel at the organic flow of the interior spaces and the way the building seems to emerge from the lake itself. The use of natural materials and the emphasis on horizontal lines are hallmarks of Wright's Prairie School style, adapted here for a civic building. Exploring the various levels, from the main concourse to the rooftop garden, reveals different facets of Wright's genius. The building's design is not just about aesthetics; it was intended to be a functional civic hub, a place for community gathering and public engagement.
For those interested in architecture, a guided tour is highly recommended. These tours often highlight the challenges faced during construction and the innovative solutions employed to bring Wright's vision to life. Understanding the history and design philosophy behind Monona Terrace enhances the appreciation of its beauty and significance as a piece of American architectural heritage.
Navigating Monona Terrace: Tips from Visitors
To make your visit smoother, consider familiarizing yourself with a map of Monona Terrace before you arrive. If attending an event, arrive a little early to allow ample time to find your way. Some visitors suggest that while the building is beautiful, its design can be somewhat impractical, leading to frustration for those unfamiliar with its quirks.
Despite these navigational challenges, many visitors find the experience rewarding. The rooftop garden and the lake views are consistently praised as highlights, offering a peaceful escape and fantastic photo opportunities. The gift shop also receives positive mentions for its selection of Frank Lloyd Wright-themed items.
Events and Activities at Monona Terrace
During the warmer months, the Concerts on the Rooftop series offers a popular way to enjoy live music with a picturesque backdrop. Art enthusiasts can also find events like the Art Fair Off The Square, showcasing local and regional artists. The Dane County Farmers' Market, one of the largest in the country, also has a presence, offering fresh produce and local goods.
Beyond these regular events, Monona Terrace frequently hosts other activities, including educational programs, holiday markets, and cultural celebrations. Checking their official event calendar is the best way to discover what's happening during your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit