James Madison Park
Madison, WI 53703 Directions
Acres: 12.63
Located in downtown Madison, James Madison Park is no stranger to busy city life. Yet these twelve acres offer users an area ideally suited for refreshing the body and mind. The basketball courts, volleyball court, and playground are popular destinations for students and other residents. 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. Whether you're in the mood for a friendly volleyball match or just a break from city life, treat yourself to a visit to James Madison Park.
Alternate address: 728 East Gorham Street
Alcohol is prohibited in this park. For more information, see the Madison General Ordinance 8.24. In order to have alcohol in this park, you must have an alcohol permit, which may be obtained through the Parks Administrative Office.
The James Madison Park Master Plan was approved on February 13, 2019.
At this Park
Athletic Fields & Courts
Most athletic fields and courts are available first-come, first-served. You must reserve fields and courts online for leagues, lessons, or tournaments.
Basketball
Full Courts: 2
Definitions: Full Court = 50' x 84' and Full Small Court = 44' x 74'
Volleyball
Courts: 1, sand
By beach
Beach
Swim Ropes: No
Shoreline: Lake Mendota
There are no lifeguards on duty.
See Beaches for more information.
Public Health Madison & Dane County monitors the lake water quality Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check beach water quality.
Canoe and Kayak Launch
Access Lake Mendota.
See Canoe/Kayak Launches for more information.
Canoe and Kayak Storage
Store your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. All storage racks are outdoors and uncovered. See Canoe & Kayak Storage for more information and how to reserve.
Fishing
See Fishing for additional locations.
People 16 years and older need a fishing license from the Wisconsin DNR.
Eating fish can be a delicious, low-cost, and nutritious meal. However, eating certain fish can also be harmful because they may contain mercury, PCBs, or PFAS. See Eating Your Catch (from the WI DNR) for more information.
Gates of Heaven
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See Shelter Prices for definitions and more information.
Review all Policies & Guidelines before making a reservation.
See Shelter Reservations for more information and how to reserve.
Playground
Two playgrounds.
Madison Parks manages about 190 playgrounds systemwide. This results in about 7 playgrounds per 10,000 residents, placing Madison in the top 10 of the Trust for Public Land's national parks ranking. Playground design and amenities vary by park.
Restrooms
Closed for Season
No description available.
Shelter
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See Shelter Prices for definitions and more information.
Review all Policies & Guidelines before making a reservation.
See Shelter Reservations for more information and how to reserve.