Madison on the Lakes
Expiration: 365 days after purchase
In partnership with Clean Lakes Alliance, this trail invites you to discover just how accessible lake life is in Madison. Check in at lakeside locations across the city, from waterfront restaurants and boat rentals to scenic lakeshore parks and more.
Checking in to ten trail locations qualifies you to be entered into the Grand Prize Giveaway. The prize consists of a 4-hour boat cruise for up to 16 passengers on Lake Mendota through Badger Pontoon Charters and a Food Fight gift card.
Get the latest lake news and events straight to your inbox on the first of each month from Clean Lakes Alliance: https://www.cleanlakesalliance.org/contact/
The Madison on the Lakes Grand Prize Giveaway package is valued at $1,000. Individuals must be 21 years or older to accept this prize. A winner will be chosen on August 17, 2026 and notified by a member of the Kona Big Wave staff via Wisconsin Distributors. Must be used during the 2026 Madison boating season. Charter picks up/drops off at Tenney Park.
Included Venues
See locations on an interactive map.
Casual drinks and dining on the Western shore of beautiful Lake Waubesa. Family owned since 1936 serving classic Wisconsin Tavern fare.
Lake Kegonsa State Park offers a variety of recreational activities set along a 3,200-acre glacial lake. A swimming beach, picnic areas with reservable shelters, and a boat launch are within 1 mile of the campground. Fishing opportunities are excellent, while hiking trails weave among oak woodlands, prairies and wetlands.
Madison Boats connects people with each other and with nature. Their team is ready to help you in and out of your rental boat and give you tips on how to paddle or where to go.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a year-round destination for nature-lovers, green-thumbers and respite-seekers. The Gardens, voted one of the top 10 most inspiring gardens in North America by Horticulture Magazine, sit on Madison’s eclectic, quirky eastside.
Springers stands as a hundred-year-old historic spot on Lake Kegonsa in Stoughton. The year-round family-friendly supper club creates the perfect ambiance to unwind by the water’s edge for breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Buck & Honey's in Monona is a cozy waterfront dining experience offering a deep lineup of elevated, classic dishes.
Where else can you see more than 650 animals from around the world for free? Henry Vilas Zoo has been one of visitors' favorite things to do in Madison for decades. Indoor exhibits like the aviary and primate building let you get up-close to some of the world's most amazing animals. The conservation carousel amazes all. And the polar bears are always putting on a show.
Located in downtown Madison, James Madison Park is a 12-acre waterfront park bordering Lake Mendota. Take a relaxing stroll between meeting sessions to refresh the mind and body. On nice days, it's not uncommon to see at least a few pick-up games of soccer and Frisbee in the open grassy area. The park is also home to the historic Gates of Heaven, which provides a beautiful location for weddings and other gatherings and complements the park's peaceful atmosphere.
Know Before You Go
Open seasonally. Closed on Mondays. Weather permitting, Lake Vista Café typically is open May through September for lunch and dinner. Visit their website for current menus and hours: https://www.mononaterrace.com/experience-monona-terrace/lake-vista-cafe/
Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Monona and downtown Madison’s cityscape at Lake Vista Café, located at the William T. Evjue Rooftop Gardens at Monona Terrace. Relax with a glass of wine and an assortment of appetizers and sandwiches in a gourmet-casual atmosphere.
One Social Food Hall offers seven unique food vendors, a full bar and a bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows and a lake-view terrace. This food hall is located near Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center and several downtown hotels. From live music and trivia nights to seasonal events, welcoming atmosphere is great for gatherings of all kinds.
Dine with Sardine for a unique Madison experience with a beautiful view of Lake Monona. Their bistro-style dining features French and American cuisine including seafood hors d'oeuvres and unique dinner options.
Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Friday through Sunday. Hours vary by season; please visit the website for current hours: https://boathousemadison.com
It's hard to beat the beautiful view of Lake Mendota from The Boathouse, located at lake level at The Edgewater Hotel. Enjoy great company with burgers, brats, a classic fish fry and the best selection of cold craft beers.
Enjoy the incredible views from this restaurant inside The Edgewater Hotel on the shores of Lake Mendota. The creative culinary team at The Statehouse offers Modern American cuisine, including approachable favorites that are market-inspired with regional and seasonal ingredients. Try their classic Wisconsin fish fry!