Ontario Park

A Touch of Green in East Madison

Situated on Madison's east side, Ontario Park is one of those modest green spaces that brings neighborhood life together. At just 2 acres, it's not trying to compete with the city's larger parks - but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in convenience, especially if you live nearby. The park sits right next to Whitehorse Middle School and connects to a bike path, making it super easy to swing by whether you're pedaling through the neighborhood or walking home from school.

What You'll Find There

The heart of Ontario Park is its open grassy field - excellent for tossing a frisbee, kicking a soccer ball around, or just letting the kids burn off some energy. If you've got children between 5 to 10 years old, they'll appreciate the playground with its decent play structure. There are toddler swings too, though parents should note the playground has a gravel surface rather than wood chips or rubber.

Looking to shoot some hoops? The basketball court is typically where the older kids and adults hang out. When you need a break, you'll discover picnic tables scattered throughout - ideal spots to enjoy a sandwich or just sit back and watch the world go by.

Why Locals Love It

Ontario Park has naturally evolved into something of a community hub. Its proximity to Whitehorse Middle School makes it a go-to spot for students after the final bell rings. Dog owners have informally adopted it as a place where their four-legged friends can stretch their legs (though it's not an official dog park).

Cyclists particularly appreciate how the park connects to the neighborhood bike path, making it a natural rest stop during rides or a safe destination for families teaching kids to cycle. It's not fancy or flashy, but there's something genuinely charming about this little neighborhood green space that keeps locals coming back.