Period Garden Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Found in the heart of Madison's historic Mansion Hill District, Period Garden Park is a charming pocket of Victorian elegance that feels like stepping back in time. This quarter-acre green space at the intersection of East Gorham and North Pinckney Streets was once the front lawn of the Elisha W. Keyes House from 1853 - an interesting historical detail.

In the 1970s, when developers had other plans for this slice of history, passionate community activists stepped in to save it. Their vision? To recreate the ambiance of those lovely Victorian gardens that once dotted this neighborhood in the 19th century. Their efforts have preserved this unique piece of Madison's history.

Victorian Charm in Full Bloom

Wandering through this petite park, you'll discover a thoughtful blend of grassy areas and flower beds that create a surprisingly peaceful retreat from downtown Madison's hustle. The brick walkways and carved sandstone steps aren't just pretty - they're actually authentic to Madison's Victorian garden tradition.

At the heart of it all stands a graceful water fountain, surrounded by flower beds that transform with the seasons. There's something magical about how the garden's palette shifts during the year, always maintaining that meticulous Victorian aesthetic that makes this space so special.

Community Love in Every Corner

The park is maintained through a collaboration between the City of Madison Parks Division and dedicated local volunteers. So many of the beautiful plantings you'll see are the result of neighbors who genuinely care about preserving this urban oasis.

One person deserves special mention - Joe Bonardi, a devoted Madisonian whose passion helped breathe new life into this space. When you visit, you're experiencing his legacy in every carefully tended corner of the garden.

Your Own Moment of Calm

Period Garden Park offers a rare commodity in city life - tranquility. It's perfectly sized for quiet contemplation or losing yourself in a good book. The intimate setting with its seasonal blooms offers different perspectives throughout the year.

The park has also become something of a photographer's dream. Its picturesque setting represents a beautiful backdrop for special moments - wedding ceremonies, engagement photos, and even prom or homecoming pictures all find a touch of timeless elegance here.

Before You Visit

Note that accessing the park requires climbing stairs, which might present challenges if you have mobility concerns.