Madison adores the outdoors — this much we know. Maybe it’s the series of lakes that surround us, or the fact that we’re regularly named one of the fittest cities in America . We love the outdoors so much, our city oversees 200+ parks in the greater Madison area.
With more than 30 unique activities + an additional 40 services offered through the Parks Division network, let’s map out how to make the most of these ~6,000 acres of parkland.
📍 Find a park
With so many parks to choose from, it can be daunting to begin planning a day out. Here are two ways to search for a local hangout.
- Use the park locator to find green spaces near you.
- Search by activity to find a park that offers any mix of 40+ amenities + activities.
Did you know Olbrich Gardens is operated as a public-private partnership with Parks Division?
Photo by @sekretempire
🗓️ Host an event
The city’s parks host dozens of large + picnic shelters
ranging in size and price. Here’s what to know about booking.
- Before getting your heart set on a venue, review ongoing parks projects to ensure your space is available.
- Look over the shelter reservations guide to learn about playing music, vending, and more.
- Planning a larger community event? Visit the special events page + take advantage of better rates and amenities.
📝 Pro tips for the parks
- Dogs are welcome in most city parks with a proper permit .
- Alcohol is also permitted in most city parks with a few exceptions — details here . (Think: Olbirch, James Madison, and Brittingham.)
- Personal grills are allowed in non-conservation parks. Warner Park hosts two built in grills for public use.
- Anyone can reserve a tee time to play on a public golf course.
- Parks Division is constantly updating its calendar of events . Check in regularly to stay in the loop about seasonal activities + outdoor experiences.
🎒 Your park grab bag
Picked your perfect park? Make the most out of your experience with our favorite items for a relaxing day outside:
- Is there anything quite like sitting in the shade and enjoying a good book ? Check out our guide to books by local authors to help choose your next great read.
- The Kindle Paperwhite is a lightweight e-reader option that stands up to bright sunlight.
- A good water bottle keeps you hydrated — we’re big fans of the best-selling Owala FreeSip + this insulated stackable tumbler from Asheville NC-based retailer Pirani.
- Heading to the park with kids? Check out the Owala FreeSip for kids .
- Don’t forget the travel-size bug spray and sunscreen .
- These sunglasses from Nordstrom Rack are available at discount prices + have a style for everyone.
- Keep it all together in a handy tote bag — these adorable tote bags are all crafted by small businesses and local makers.