Bikes • Boats • Brews

 

KAYAK RENTALS ARE BACK IN MONONA!

 

Head to Schluter Beach for kayaks, paddles, and lifejackets available from Instapaddle self-serve kiosk using your phone.

Heading to a badger game?  

 

Get ready for the ultimate Badger game day experience!  Our package includes a mouthwatering burger and three refreshing beers, stress-free transportation to and from the stadium, and a cozy hotel room.  All you have to focus on is cheering on the Badgers.

Upcoming Events:

 

Monona’s 41st Chili Cook Off – Sept 28

Monona Farmers Market at Ahuska Park – Sundays May – Oct

Aldo Leopold Nature Center – Fall Fest – Oct 18, 5:30-7:30

Parks & Rec – Fall Fest – Oct 12

Halloween Spooktacular – Oct 25, 5-6:30p

Light the Ice – Nov 30, 5:30-7p

See All Events >

Plan Your Stay >

I have an Afternoon

I Have a Day

I Have a Weekend

Experience Monona

Welcome to the glorious shores of Monona, Wisconsin, the land of bikes, boats, and brews.  You are sure to fall in love with all that Monona, WI, has to offer.  Nestled on the southeastern shores of Lake Monona, our town offers beaches, bike trails, and local eats that promise to be a hit with the whole family. Come for the breathtaking views of our state Capitol, and stay for an unforgettable experience. We invite you to discover Monona.

monona wi
monona wi
monona wi

 Find more ways to enjoy Monona as featured in the Destination Madison blog post – How to Enjoy an Outdoor Getaway in Monona (visitmadison.com)

www.MononaEastSide.com

About Our Town 

Monona, Wisconsin has stepped out of our Capitol’s shadow and onto center stage offering a history and experience all its own. We invite you to take a reprieve from the hustle of downtown and rediscover yourself on the shores of Lake Monona, or by chasing down a new adventure on our Monona Lake Loop bike path. Take in all that nature has to offer, appreciating the scenery and wildlife; you may even spot the beloved sandhill cranes. Whether you are here for an afternoon, day, weekend, or are looking to move to the area and join our community, let us help you discover all that Monona has to offer.

Plan Your Stay…

I have an afternoon

Grab a snack

  • Stop by one of our local delis and pack a picnic lunch
  • Grab a coffee and sweet treat to energize your afternoon
  • Have an hour or two? Stop for lunch at one of our local eateries

Take in a few sights

  • Lounge in the park with a good book or take a stroll along the beach
  • Splash in the pool or kayak on the lake
  • Watch the sunset over Lake Monona
  • Grab a spiced apple cider and go ice skating, or take a walk on the frozen-over lake

I have a day

Brunch and Dinner

  • Treat yourself to a sweet or savory brunch
  • Pack some snacks and eat on the go as you explore the area
  • Treat yourself to a nice dinner or cocktail at a local bar

Go on an adventure

  • Discover Monona’s rich history on a few walking tours
  • Hit up the shops and support local business
  • Get some exercise and vitamin D while you stroll along the Lake Loop
  • Take some time to ‘smell the roses’ in the Olbrich Botanical Gardens  and surround yourself with free-flying butterflies in the Bolz Conservatory next door

I have a weekend

Fuel up on food

  • Start the day off right with a breakfast fit for a king at one of our local restaurants
  • Need to catch a few extra z’s in the morning? Grab some brunch instead!
  • Get your dinner to-go and watch the sunset or relax with a cocktail and some apps

Explore the town

  • Discover the best cheese curds in Monona
  • Rent a bike and ride the Monona Lake Loop
  • Try your hand at ice fishing or build the tallest snowman in the park
  • Settle in for a long winter’s nap at one of our local hotels

History of Monona

Even before its incorporation as a village in 1938, Monona’s cultural foundations encompass rich historical roots from the people who settled on the land years before. Learn about the original settlements by the Ho-Chunk People and tribes that used to travel through Monona, as well as legacies from the Prohibition Era and after. Much of Monona’s history can still be seen throughout the area on our historic walking tours, including the infamous Black Bridge and the Ho-Chunk effigy mounds. Learn how Monona’s rich history has shaped the city and its people.

Upcoming Events & Festivals

Looking to dance to some live music in the park, take your taste buds on an adventure through food carts, or snag the perfect photo with “Bucky” Badger? Our Monona events and festivals are the perfect way to spend some quality time with friends, family, and the Monona community year-round! Click to explore our upcoming events and festivals!

This is the official visitor site for Monona, Wisconsin. Learn about the town's history, find places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shops, and more.

Photos by Bruce Fritz

Sponsored by:

Contact

Monona East Side Business Alliance: PO Box 6264, Monona, WI 53716

(608) 416-1610