The city of Madison is unique in so many ways, but one of the most beautiful things about this urban core is that it’s surrounded by water. Five sparkling lakes, including Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa, and Wingra, frame the capital and create a landscape where getting out on the water is a breeze. As temperatures rise, locals and visitors alike gravitate toward the Madison lakes for long afternoons of boating, waterfront dining, and an annual calendar full of activity and fun things to do in Wisconsin.
The two closest Madison lakes are Lake Mendota and Lake Monona; they are the largest and most accessible lakes bordering the city. Together, they offer some of the best opportunities for boating, water sports, and relaxed cruising, all within minutes of downtown. If you are searching for what to do in Madison, WI, during the warmer months, time on these lakes is such a lovely addition to your itinerary.
For those planning a summer getaway, staying at an intimate Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast places you within a short drive of both Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. After a full day on the water, returning to a comfortable property, like The Buckingham Inn, will be a welcome reprieve from the sun. With only three guest rooms with a long list of luxurious touches, you’ll love being a welcomed guest. Book your lodging today!
Explore these Madison Lakes on Your Next Visit
With so many lakes in and near Madison, WI, you can build a full itinerary around the water. Spend a morning fishing or paddling, an afternoon cruising on a pontoon boat, and an evening listening to live music by the lake. With easy water access, you can add these outings to a quick weekend getaway or extend your time in Madison to visit the water for multiple activities.
Lake Mendota is the largest of the Madison lakes and offers a classic day on the water. Its bigger size allows for a wide range of lake activities, from sailing and fishing to high-speed cruising. The shoreline stretches past residential neighborhoods, parks, and the University of Wisconsin campus, giving boaters diverse views along the way. Launch points at Marshall Park and Tenney Park make it easy to get started, whether you bring your own boat or rent one nearby.
Pontoon boats are especially popular on Lake Mendota. The lake’s open water and steady breezes make it ideal for a full day of cruising. Groups often anchor near Picnic Point or drift along the shoreline with a cooler onboard. Fishing is also a draw here, with anglers targeting walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass, particularly in the early morning hours when the lake is at its calmest.
Boat rental on the nearby Madison lakes is straightforward, with several outfitters operating directly on or near Lake Mendota. Madison Boats offers pontoons, fishing boats, and jet skis, depending on how you want to spend your time. Whether it is a few hours or a full day, having access to the water without transporting equipment is part of what makes the Madison lakes so accessible.
Just south of downtown, Lake Monona is slightly smaller but more centrally located. It offers some of the most dynamic views in the city, including a direct perspective of the Madison skyline and the Wisconsin State Capitol. The lake is often more active, with a mix of motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards sharing the water throughout the day.
Law Park and Olin Park serve as primary access points, and from there, it is easy to explore the full stretch of the lake. Pontoon rentals popular here as well. One of the more unique experiences on Lake Monona is the Paddle Pub, where guests pedal together while cruising across the lake, often with music playing and drinks on board. It is a lively option for sightseeing in Madison!
Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular on Lake Monona, particularly along the shorelines, where the water is calmer. For those who prefer to admire the water from land, the Lake Monona Loop provides a scenic biking and walking route that circles the lake and connects several key points along the water.
Beyond boating, both Lake Mendota and Lake Monona are a big part of Madison’s summer culture. The Memorial Union Terrace on Lake Mendota draws crowds for its outdoor seating, live music, and iconic lakefront views. On Lake Monona, seasonal events and festivals with food, music, and water access. Both of these Madison lakes are spectacular gathering places for visitors and locals.
Plan Your Summer Getaway to our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast
From the open water of Lake Mendota to the vibrant shoreline of Lake Monona, exploring the Madison lakes is a one-of-a-kind adventure. If you are looking for the best things to do in Madison, WI, in the warmer months, start with the lakes and plan to spend more time on the water than you expected.
Choosing one of the guest rooms at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast adds a level of comfort and convenience that makes experiencing our beautiful city all the more exceptional. Located in a quiet historic neighborhood just minutes from both Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, our B&B offers easy access to the best boating spots, waterfront parks, and downtown attractions. With classic architecture, modern amenities, and attentive hospitality, you’ll love settling in to your cozy suite. Book your room today!
