Madison’s 5,779 acres of parks and open spaces welcome more than 5.5 million visits a year. Yet taxpayer funding contributes less than one dollar per park from each household—barely enough to maintain the basics. That’s where the Madison Parks Foundation steps in, funding the experiences and amenities that make Madison’s parks the best in the nation.

Madison's parks embody the principle of universal access—they are public spaces designed for everyone to enjoy, regardless of background, ability, or economic status. These spaces serve as vital community gathering places where neighbors connect, families create memories, and individuals find respite and recreation. The beauty of public parks lies in their democratic nature: they welcome all visitors without barriers or prerequisites. However, this universal access creates unique challenges in ensuring true equity. Not all community members can equally participate in park activities or access all areas due to physical barriers, program costs, or lack of adaptive programming. Our efforts addresse these systemic barriers while maintaining the open, welcoming nature that makes parks special. Our commitment to serving "all" means recognizing that accessibility improvements and inclusive programming benefit everyone—from families with young children to seniors, from individuals using mobility devices to those learning new recreational skills. When parks truly work for all, the entire community flourishes.