Oscar Rennebohm Park

Park History

Situated on the west side of Madison, Wisconsin, behind Hilldale Mall, you'll discover the 20.12-acre location known as Oscar Rennebohm Park. When it first joined Madison's green spaces in February 1958, locals knew it as University Hills Farm Park. In 1989, it was renamed to honor Oscar Rennebohm, a former Wisconsin State Governor and treasured Madison community leader.

Facilities and Amenities

Need a spot for your next family reunion or birthday celebration? There's a spacious open-air shelter that you can reserve, complete with restrooms and drinking water access - essential comforts for any gathering.

The playground underwent recent renovations that added features like a climbing net and musical play equipment. The real showstopper arrived in August 2023 with the opening of the Jeffrey Erlanger Accessible Playground, thoughtfully designed with a fully ramp-connected main play structure and an inclusive spinner that welcomes children using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

Kids particularly love the bouncy rubber ground surface - it's not just safer, but adds an extra element of fun to playtime. If you're planning a picnic, you'll appreciate the eating areas positioned close enough to keep an eye on the playground while still enjoying a bit of privacy.

Sports and Recreation

For the more active visitors, Oscar Rennebohm Park offers several options. Tennis enthusiasts can take advantage of six tennis courts, with three of them lit up for evening games. These courts pull double duty as pickleball courts too. There's also a basketball court for pickup games and two soccer fields ready for action.

Baseball and softball players can make use of the ball diamond, while the expansive grassy areas offer perfect spots for casual frisbee games, dog walking, or just stretching out with a good book. When winter blankets Madison, an ice skating rink transforms part of the park into a seasonal playground.

Community Events

The park really comes alive during community events. Summer evenings feature the Capitol City Band performing Thursday concerts at the shelter - a pleasant way to enjoy the park.

The pavilion and open spaces regularly host neighborhood gatherings, cookouts, and family celebrations.

Community Value

Oscar Rennebohm Park provides a green space where you can either participate in active recreation or simply sit back and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Its various amenities accommodate different activities throughout the year.

The well-kept grounds and trees provide a pleasant setting. Whether you're visiting with kids, walking your dog, playing sports, or looking for a peaceful spot, the park offers a nice break from the surrounding urban area.