Tenney Park

Tenney Park is a Madison favorite offering families a fantastic free splash pad with water jets and interactive features perfect for hot summer days. With its excellent 4.7-star rating from over 1,000 reviews, this expansive park provides plenty of space for kids to cool off and play while parents relax on the grassy areas nearby.

• ✓Free admission to the splash pad area
• ✓Interactive water jets and spray features
• ✓Large grassy areas for picnicking and playing
• ✓Scenic location along Lake Mendota
• ✓Traditional playground equipment adjacent to splash pad

1. 1.Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and intense midday sun
2. 2.Bring water shoes as the splash pad surface can get hot during peak sun hours
3. 3.Pack towels, sunscreen, and extra clothes,kids will want to stay longer than planned
4. 4.The park has plenty of shaded areas perfect for setting up a picnic blanket and base camp
5. 5.Street parking is available on N Thornton Ave, but fill up quickly on hot weekends,consider biking or arriving before 10 AM

Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the best experience with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Avoid weekend afternoons during July and August when the splash pad is most crowded. Early September visits provide pleasant weather with minimal crowds.

The splash pad is completely free to use and operates seasonally during summer months. Street parking is available but limited during peak times, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation.

The splash pad operates seasonally, typically from late May through early September, weather permitting. The park itself remains open year-round with extended hours (4 AM-10 PM daily), making it great for fall walks and winter activities, though the water features are summer-only.

Head to Bloom Bake Shop (0.5 miles away) for fresh pastries and kid-friendly lunch options, or try Tex Tubbs Taco Palace for casual tacos that kids love in a relaxed atmosphere.