James Madison Park Gates of Heaven

James Madison Park

302 E. Gorham St
Madison, WI 53706

Directions

Features

Indoor space: one room on main level, small balcony and basement with restrooms accessed by stairs
- Access: key required 🔒︎
- Seating: approx. 98 chairs, no tables provided
- Available year-round
- Temperature-controlled
Alcohol: not allowed
Food & Beverage: not allowed
Amplified Sound: requires permit
Water: sinks in basement
Electricity: yes, standard outlets
Restrooms: yes, in basement accessed by stairs
- ADA accessible portable restrooms provided upon request made 10 days prior to the event date
Parking: paved lot
- 23 standard stalls, 3 accessible stalls
- 3-hour parking limit
  - Free parking passes available with reservation upon request (spaces not guaranteed)
Piano: $20/per reservation (key required 🔒︎)

Additional Permits & Locked Amenities

Amplified sound is not allowed without a permit.
- Purchase permit at the time of reservation. See Special Permit for more information.
Key(s) may be required to access some amenities at this shelter, which are available with a reservation.
- A 🔒︎ symbol indicates a key is needed for access. If you don't plan to use the amenity, you don't need the key.
- Keys may be picked up at 330 East Lakeside Street as early as three business days before your reservation.
  - The Parks Office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  - Failure to pick up a key ahead of time will result in your being locked out of these amenities.
  - If a Park Ranger is called, and is able to assist, you will be invoiced a fee.
- Keys must be returned to the Parks Office within two business days of the reservation to avoid additional fees.

History

Built in 1863, Gates of Heaven is the fourth oldest surviving synagogue building in the nation. The building was moved to James Madison Park in 1971. It is a popular location for intimate wedding ceremonies and the small upstairs seating area provides a wonderful birds-eye view for guests. The Victorian-era Period Gardens located a block away on the corner of Pinckney Street and Gorham Street, is a beautiful location for photos.

Prohibited

To maintain the beauty of this historic building, no nails, staples, or other fasteners that will harm the walls or floors may be used. The Madison Parks Division recommends using free-standing decorations. Food and beverages other than water are prohibited, except in the context of a religious ceremony.