Tenney Park and Locks
1 / 10

Tenney Park and Locks

4.8
·126 reviews·Madison, United States

Scenic park with historic locks, popular for fishing, sunset views, and magnet fishing adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Spectacular sunsets and peaceful atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Tenney Park and Locks

Tenney Park and Locks

Best Time

Evenings

Spectacular sunsets and peaceful atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic park with historic locks, popular for fishing, sunset views, and magnet fishing adventures.

4.8
(126 reviews)

"A picturesque area with views of the lake and benches to sit down and take it all in."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Cast Your Line

Fishing is popular here; try for muskie, walleye, or even sturgeon.

🌅 Sunset Serenity

The pier offers stunning sunset views, a perfect spot for relaxation.

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.8 · 126 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Locks

The Locks

Watch boats navigate through the historic locks, a fascinating engineering feat.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the lake from the pier, a perfect moment of peace.

Fishing Pier

Fishing Pier

Cast a line and try your luck catching muskie, walleye, or even a sturgeon.

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Fishing & Fun

Tenney Park is a popular spot for fishing, especially for muskie and walleye. It's also a great place for a scenic walk and sunset viewing. The locks offer a unique visual experience.

Magnet Fishing Hotspot?

While known for traditional fishing, one Redditor shared success with magnet fishing, pulling up scooters and even park benches. Explore the waters for hidden treasures!

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Spectacular sunsets and peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family-friendly activities and vibrant energy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Go-to local fishing? (& other recs…)

I recently moved home to Madison after years away across the country, and my partner is coming to visit next month. He’s never been to the Midwest, and he’s one of many in that area of the country who sleep on Madison/WI/the Midwest because they assume it’s just the movie…

🎣 Cast Your Line

Fishing is popular here; try for muskie, walleye, or even sturgeon. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Serenity

The pier offers stunning sunset views, a perfect spot for relaxation. Reddit

reddit.com

Only in Madison

I’m sure many people around lake Mendota are familiar with this little ice house- turned tiny house that floats around the lake. Today it was docked at James Madison. I admit I was a little disconcerted the first time I saw this little house docked at one of the busier parks…

reddit.com

Madison, WI, area kayakers: can I paddle from Lake Mendota to Lake Monona?

I just recently moved to the area, and have been slowly exploring the water around town. I've paddled from Cherokee Marsh into and around Lake Mendota, and have done some paddling around Monona, but I am curious about cutting through town and approaching Monona from Mendota.…

🚢 Lock Watching

Observe boats passing through the locks for a unique experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy the walking trails and picturesque scenery around the park. Reddit

reddit.com

Magnet fishing around the city

About a year ago I got into the hobby of magnet fishing. Basically I use a super strong magnet tied to the end of a rope to fish metal objects out of bodies of water. I’ve caught Scooters, knives, street signs, park benches, and a whole bunch of other cool things. I was…

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Cast Your Line

Fishing is popular here; try for muskie, walleye, or even sturgeon. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Serenity

The pier offers stunning sunset views, a perfect spot for relaxation. Reddit

🚢 Lock Watching

Observe boats passing through the locks for a unique experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy the walking trails and picturesque scenery around the park. Reddit

💎 Magnet Fishing Fun

Explore magnet fishing for unique finds like scooters or street signs! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Tenney Park for its beautiful scenery, especially the sunsets, and its family-friendly atmosphere. The fishing opportunities and the unique experience of watching the locks are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find it a peaceful escape, while others enjoy the active pursuits it offers.

"As a Fisherman who likes to catch BIG Fish and at the very least See Lots of Fish Swimming everywhere. I have caught ALOT of Muskie, Northern Pike, Walleye, GAR, Buffalo Carp, Snapping Turtles, Large Mouth, Massive Small Mouth, ONE Sturgeon.
YOU ARE VERY WELCOME. ENJOY 😉"

Nicholas Bahn

"Beautiful walk on a beautiful evening. No fish caught, but still lovely"

Sally Ellenbecker

"A picturesque area with views of the lake and benches to sit down and take it all in. You can also see the capital from the pier. Fishing is allowed on the pier. Free to enter."

Mister Jon

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Great fishing spots
Fascinating locks

What People Dislike

Parking can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tenney Park is accessible by car, with parking available. It's also reachable by bike paths and public transportation, making it a convenient destination for various travel preferences. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Tenney Park, though it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during popular events. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! Tenney Park is connected to a network of bike paths, making it a great destination for cyclists. Secure bike racks are usually available. Reddit

Check local bus routes for options that stop near Tenney Park. It's a good idea to use a transit app for real-time schedules and routes. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, major roads like East Washington Avenue provide access. Use a GPS navigation app for the most efficient route. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Tenney Park and its locks are free to enter and explore. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities without any admission cost. Reddit

The operating hours for the locks can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local navigation authorities for the most up-to-date lock schedules. Reddit

Yes, a valid Wisconsin fishing license is required for anyone fishing in the park's waters, regardless of age, unless specific exemptions apply. Reddit

For larger gatherings or organized events, permits may be required. Contact the local parks department for information on event permits and regulations. Reddit

Some picnic areas might be reservable for group events. Inquire with the Madison Parks Department about reservation options and availability. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Water Activities

Anglers frequently catch muskie, northern pike, walleye, gar, buffalo carp, large and smallmouth bass, and even sturgeon. Reddit

The fishing pier is a popular spot, offering good access to the water. The areas around the locks and along the Yahara River are also productive. Reddit

Yes, there is a boat launch available, allowing easy access for boaters and anglers to explore the waterways. Reddit

Magnet fishing is a popular activity here, with Redditors reporting finds like scooters and street signs. Be mindful of local regulations. Reddit

While not a designated swimming beach, the park offers opportunities for water activities like boating and fishing. Check for any specific water safety advisories. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Scenery

Capture stunning sunset views from the pier, the intricate workings of the locks, and the diverse wildlife along the riverbanks. Reddit

Absolutely! The park offers a variety of scenic elements, from water views and locks to trails and wildlife, making it a photographer's delight. Reddit

From the pier, you can often get a clear view of the Wisconsin State Capitol building, especially on a clear day. Reddit

The park's trails and riverbanks are ideal for spotting and photographing local birds, aquatic life, and other natural elements. Reddit

Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Evenings are particularly popular for sunset shots. Reddit

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