Madison Boats focuses on helping people get out and about on Madison’s lakes! With three convenient locations on three different lakes, (Wingra Boats, Brittingham Boats and Marshall Boats), they have over 400 boats for rent. They rent canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards or SUPs, paddle boats, row boats, and pontoon boats.
Open Memorial Day Weekend Through Labor Day
They’re open all day, everyday from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. There are often extra days added before or after summer hours depending on the weather and staffing. Check each location for details. Memberships are available if you plan to visit often! All rentals are by the hour and include life jackets and paddles. Every participant has to sign a waiver- electronic or paper.
Brittingham Boats
Located on Lake Monona | 701 W Brittingham Place Madison, WI
Enjoy the shoreline view of the State Capitol and Monona Terrace. Rental options include kayaks, SUPs, mega SUPs, paddle boats, and canoes. Check out the 8 person rowing shells stored in the boathouse!
Marshall Boats
Located on Lake Mendota | 2101 Allen Blvd Middleton, WI
Paddle through the moored sailboats or along the shoreline. If you have extra time, venture over to the Memorial Union. Rental options include kayaks, SUPs, mega SUPs, canoes, and pontoon boats. Marshall Boats is next to Marshall Park where you’ll find a small beach, sand volleyball courts and ample grass and picnic tables to enjoy frisbee or a picnic.
Wingra Boats
Located on Lake Wingra | 824 Knickerbocker St. Madison, WI
This is a no wake lake so it makes for a calm paddle with lots of natural scenery. Rental options include kayaks, SUPs, mega SUPs, canoes, water mats, paddle boats, and row boats. Wingra Park is next to the boat rental pavilion and has grassy areas, basketball courts, a playground, bike paths, and a shoreline for fishing.
Our family loves the water and can’t get enough of paddling and enjoying the shoreline. We’ve visited all 3 locations and always have a blast! Our latest adventure was to Marshall Boats where we spent some time building moats and sandcastles before paddling out onto the water in kayaks. Lake Mendota can often have bigger waves compared to Lake Wingra or Lake Monona, but we managed to visit on a calmer day and enjoyed a smooth paddle around the moored sailboats. While there, we watched 3 sailboats anchor and set up for the summer season. Typically, concessions are available at each location, but so far, they’re not open yet. Check the websites for snack details or BYO!
Tell us about your favorite boathouse or lake views.
