Lake Monona - Monona

Lake Monona- Dane County

This large public lake is located in southern Wisconsin in the city of Madison. The location is a fantastic balance between the peace and quiet of lake life and the convenience of a city nearby! It is also located only an hour and a half west of Milwaukee. This area has a UW Health University Hospital on the southern end of the lake as well as Dane County Regional Airport nearby.

On the Water

One of the most popular recreational lakes in Wisconsin, Lake Monona is a part of the Yahara Chain of lakes and is the second largest at 3,274 acres. At its deepest, it measures 74 feet. While this is an all-sports lake, boaters should be aware that there are sections of the lake with slow and no wake zones near the shoreline. Known for exceptional fishing, Lake Monona has healthy populations of northern pike, bluegill, and some prehistoric fish such as lake sturgeon. The lake is usually frozen from December to mid-April, during which ice-fishing is a popular way to pass the winter months.

Food and Drink

Explore the area through local cuisine! Lombardino’s Restaurant, Steenbock’s on Orchard, Everyday Kitchen- Madison, or Nitty Gritty are amazing local options that are sure to please! Residents can also take advantage of the many shops and restaurants on the streets around town. The area is very walkable on the south side and is a great way to spend an afternoon or night out.

Explore the Outdoors

Dip your toe in the great outdoors by visiting one of the various parks around the lake. Tenney Park, James Madison Park, Mendota County Park, Marshall Park, Picnic Point, and Lake View Hill Park, among others, are great options for spending time in the sun, going on a hike, or just taking in the nature around you! You can also go to one of the public beaches around the lake!