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Olin Park

4.7
·124 reviews·Madison, United States

Olin Park offers stunning lake views, a free holiday light show, and a budget-friendly event venue, blending nature with cityscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful nature escape

CrowdLow
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view fro the park

Olin Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful nature escape

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Olin Park offers stunning lake views, a free holiday light show, and a budget-friendly event venue, blending nature with cityscapes.

4.7
(124 reviews)

"Olin Park's a scenic gem with killer Capitol views & sprawling lawns, perfect for chilling."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Convenience

Ample parking available, making it easy to access the park for a stroll or event.

✨ Free Holiday Magic

The Holiday Fantasy in Lights is free, though donations are welcome. A sweet family tradition!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Monona & Capitol Views

Lake Monona & Capitol Views

Waterfront

Stunning panoramic views of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline, including the iconic Capitol building. Perfect for photos and relaxation.

Instagram
Holiday Fantasy in Lights

Holiday Fantasy in Lights

Throughout the park

A dazzling free Christmas light display that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. A beloved local tradition.

Instagram+1
Olin Park Pavilion

Olin Park Pavilion

Event space

A budget-friendly outdoor venue ideal for weddings and events, offering beautiful park and lake backdrops.

Reddit
Nature Trails & Wildlife

Nature Trails & Wildlife

Wooded areas

Explore serene walking paths through wooded areas, perfect for spotting local wildlife like owls and deer.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Olin Park

While Olin Park is a year-round destination, consider visiting during off-peak hours to truly soak in the tranquility. Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, especially if you're seeking a peaceful nature escape or a quiet spot to enjoy the views. Reddit

Beyond the Park: Nearby Gems

Olin Park is lovely, but don't miss its neighbor, Turville Point Conservation Park, for an even richer nature experience. Combining both offers a diverse range of scenery and activities, from scenic walks to wildlife spotting. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful nature escape
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season evenings
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#madisonwisconsin#olbrichgardensmadison #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #activites
@reeemz9
248 likes • 8.1K views

🚗 Parking Convenience

Ample parking available, making it easy to access the park for a stroll or event. Reddit

✨ Free Holiday Magic

The Holiday Fantasy in Lights is free, though donations are welcome. A sweet family tradition! Instagram

chilll #school #tiktok #dance #madisonpark #fyp
@gijnsui
239 likes • 2K views
Olin Park never disappoints. #urbannature #madisonparks
madisonparkswi
50 likes • 794 views

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of the Capitol and lake, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with Turville Point Conservation Park for more nature and trails. Reddit

Madison friends, I made this video of the Holiday Fantasy in Lights our free xmas light show in Olin Park. I filmed at 1am so I wouldn't get hit by a car, as it gets rather busy. I hope you enjoy it. #madisonwisconsin #christmaslights #christmas #outdoorwisconsin #wisconsin #cityofmadison
naturalwitravels
60 likes • 527 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Convenience

Ample parking available, making it easy to access the park for a stroll or event. Reddit

✨ Free Holiday Magic

The Holiday Fantasy in Lights is free, though donations are welcome. A sweet family tradition! Instagram

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of the Capitol and lake, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with Turville Point Conservation Park for more nature and trails. Reddit

🎶 Event Hotspot

Olin Park hosts various events like music festivals and community gatherings. Check local listings! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(124 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Olin Park is praised as a scenic gem with beautiful Capitol and lake views, ideal for relaxed outings and events like weddings. While some find it lacks destination appeal compared to nearby spots, its tranquil atmosphere, free holiday lights, and natural beauty make it a beloved local park for picnics and leisurely strolls.

"I am a wedding photographer and photographed a wedding at the Olin Park Pavilion in August 2023. The pavilion is such a great budget-friendly outdoor wedding venue. The park has an excellent view of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline. You can choose which outdoor location in the park you want to hold your ceremony. I would definitely recommend booking your wedding ceremony and reception here!"

Brianna Kraft

"Olin Park’s a scenic gem with killer Capitol views & sprawling lawns, perfect for chilling 😊. Polar plunge was a wild rush! Great for Midwest Beer Fest or Christmas light drives. Trails & benches add charm, but it’s no hotspot 😕. Hit Turville Point nearby for more. Can’t wait for summer vibes!"

Joly Sujon

"Olin Park is fine but isn't much of a destination. You get a decent view of the capital and there is a large grassy field but not much else. You can look at that said, Turville Point Conservation Park is next door if you want something more. Go to the Olin Park Vantage for a closer view of the capital."

Edward Brunton

What People Like

Beautiful lake and Capitol views
Free holiday light display
Budget-friendly event venue

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events
Less of a 'destination' for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Olin Park is accessible by car with ample parking available. It's also reachable by public transport, though specific routes may vary. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking to the park, especially from nearby areas. TikTok

Yes, Olin Park offers convenient parking facilities for visitors, making it easy to access for day trips or events. Reddit

Absolutely! Olin Park is bike-friendly, with paths and ample space to enjoy a ride. It's a popular spot for cyclists exploring Madison's scenic routes. TikTok

The park features paved paths and accessible viewpoints, making it generally accessible. However, some natural trails might be uneven. It's always a good idea to check specific accessibility details if needed. Reddit

The best vantage point for the Capitol view is along the waterfront, particularly from the Olin Park Vantage area. It offers a clear, unobstructed panorama. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Olin Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Access to the park and its grounds is free for all visitors. Instagram

Olin Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific areas like the Holiday Fantasy in Lights have set operating times during the holiday season. Instagram

No, the Holiday Fantasy in Lights is a free event. While there's no charge for entry, donations are gratefully accepted to support the display. Instagram

Yes, the Olin Park Pavilion is available for booking events, including weddings. It's a popular and budget-friendly outdoor venue. Reddit

Typically, pets are allowed in Olin Park on a leash. Always check local park regulations for the most current pet policies. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Olin Park is great for leisurely walks, enjoying scenic views, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. It also hosts events and is a popular spot for photography. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, with its diverse habitats including wooded areas and waterfront, Olin Park is a good spot for bird watching. You might see various local species. Instagram

Visitors have reported seeing wildlife such as owls, deer, and wild turkeys in the more natural areas of Olin Park. Instagram

While Olin Park offers open green spaces for play, it may not have dedicated playground structures. Families often enjoy the open fields for games and activities. TikTok

The Olin Park Vantage is a specific viewpoint within the park offering a closer and clearer view of the Madison Capitol building. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Olin Park itself does not have on-site restaurants or cafes. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food for picnics or dine at nearby establishments in Madison. Reddit

Absolutely! Olin Park is a fantastic spot for picnics, with plenty of open lawns and scenic views to enjoy your meal. Reddit

You'll find a variety of dining options in the surrounding Madison area, a short drive from Olin Park. Explore downtown Madison for diverse culinary choices. Reddit

During special events or festivals held at Olin Park, food vendors may be present. It's best to check the event details for specific information. Instagram

Alcohol policies can vary. It's advisable to check the current Madison Parks regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public parks like Olin Park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront offers stunning views of Lake Monona and the Capitol, especially during sunrise and sunset. The park's natural areas and event spaces also provide diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram+2

Yes, Olin Park is a popular choice for engagement and wedding photography due to its scenic beauty, lake views, and the Capitol backdrop. Instagram

Drone usage may be subject to park regulations and FAA guidelines. Some creators have flown drones for aerial shots, but always check current rules before flying. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. The park also looks magical during the Holiday Fantasy in Lights. Instagram+1

Events like the Holiday Fantasy in Lights offer unique, festive photo opportunities. Live music events can also provide dynamic backdrops. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Olin Park is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. The open green spaces are perfect for kids to run around and play games. While there might not be a dedicated playground, the vast lawns offer plenty of room for imagination and activity. TikTok

Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal with a view of Lake Monona. During the holiday season, the Holiday Fantasy in Lights is a must-see, offering a magical experience for children of all ages. Remember to bring warm clothes if visiting during winter! Instagram

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Olin Park is a dream for photographers, offering diverse backdrops from the iconic Capitol skyline to the serene Lake Monona and natural wooded areas. The golden hour light here is particularly stunning, creating beautiful opportunities for portraits and landscapes. Instagram+2

Creators have utilized the park for everything from FPV drone footage capturing dynamic aerial shots to documenting events and nature. The Olin Park Pavilion also provides a picturesque setting for event photography. InstagramReddit

❤️ Couples & Event Planners

For couples, Olin Park offers romantic settings for anniversary sessions and is a highly recommended budget-friendly venue for weddings. The pavilion and the scenic lakefront provide beautiful backdrops for memorable celebrations. InstagramReddit

Event planners can leverage the park's natural beauty and the pavilion's facilities for various gatherings, from intimate parties to larger community events. Its accessibility and picturesque views make it a versatile choice for creating special occasions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Olin Park's Holiday Lights

The Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park is a cherished Madison tradition that transforms the park into a dazzling spectacle of festive illumination. This free event, running through the holiday season, draws crowds eager to experience the magic. It's made possible by the generosity of local businesses and organizations, making it a true community effort. Instagram+1

Visitors often describe the experience as enchanting, with creative displays that light up the winter nights. While the event is free, donations are welcomed to help sustain this beloved attraction for years to come. It's a perfect outing for families and anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit. Instagram+1

Pro-tip: Due to its popularity, the park can get quite busy, especially on weekends. Some visitors opt for early morning or late-night visits during the display's run to avoid the peak crowds, as one creator filmed at 1 am to capture the lights without congestion. Instagram

Olin Park as a Venue for Events

Olin Park, particularly its Olin Park Pavilion, serves as a popular and budget-friendly outdoor venue for various events, most notably weddings. The pavilion offers a picturesque setting with excellent views of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline, providing a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. Reddit

Couples can choose from different outdoor locations within the park for their ceremony, adding a personalized touch to their special day. The scenic beauty and accessibility make it an attractive option for those seeking an outdoor celebration. Reddit

Beyond weddings, Olin Park is a venue for community events, music festivals, and gatherings. For instance, the Harvest Season Fest has been held here, featuring live performances, highlighting the park's versatility as a community hub. Instagram

Nature and Recreation at Olin Park

Olin Park offers a refreshing escape into nature with its sprawling lawns, wooded areas, and trails. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks, enjoying the fresh air, and observing local flora and fauna. Instagram+1

The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with visitors reporting sightings of owls, deer, and wild turkeys. The natural setting provides a peaceful environment for quiet contemplation or active recreation. Instagram

For those seeking more rugged natural experiences, Turville Point Conservation Park is located adjacent to Olin Park, offering enhanced opportunities for hiking and deeper immersion in nature. Reddit+1

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