Madison Parking Guide: Tips and Tricks for Finding the Perfect Spot

9/17/22 by Zack Saadioui

Looking for a parking spot in Madison can be a pain. But with these tips and tricks, you'll be able to find the perfect spot in no time!

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Madison, WI, USA

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Street parking in Madison

In Madison, street parking is regulated by the city. There are a few things to keep in mind when parking on the street. First, be aware of the signs. They will tell you what days and times you can park on the street. Second, be aware of the meters. You will need to put money in the meter to park. Lastly, be aware of the snow. During the winter, the city will plow the streets and you will need to park in a spot that is not snowed in.

Madison street parking:

  • The Capitol Garage - $2 per hour

  • The State Street Capitol Garage - $1.60 per hour

  • The Lake Street Ramp - $1.25 per hour

  • The University Square Ramp - $1.60 per hour

  • The Regent Street Garage - $1.60 per hour

  • The Capitol East Ramp - $1.60 per hour

  • The Monona Terrace Ramp - $1.60 per hour

  • The Overture Center Ramp - $2 per hour

  • The State Street Municipal Ramp - $1.25 per hour

  • The Lake Street Municipal Ramp - $1.60 per hour

Parking garage in Madison

If you're looking for a place to park in Madison, you have a few options. You can park on the street, in a parking garage, or in a parking lot. Parking garages are a popular option because they're usually cheaper than parking on the street, and they offer protection from the elements. There are a few parking garages in Madison, and they're typically located near downtown.

Madison parking garages:

  • Capitol Square North Garage: $2 per hour, $10 per day. Located at 50 N Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703.

  • Capitol Square South Garage: $2 per hour, $10 per day. Located at 414 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703.

  • State Street Capitol Garage: $1.60 per hour, $8 per day. Located at 215 N Bassett St, Madison, WI 53703.

  • Lake Street Garage: $1.25 per hour, $7 per day. Located at Lake St & N Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703.

  • Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center: $2 per hour, $10 per day. Located at 1 John Nolen Dr, Madison, WI 53703.

  • Overture Center for the Arts: $2 per hour, $10 per day. Located at 201 State St, Madison, WI 53703.

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison Lot 60: $1.20 per hour, $6.50 per day. Located at 420 N Lake St, Madison, WI 53706.

  • University of Wisconsin-Madison Lot

Parking lots in Madison

In Madison, outdoor public parking surface lots are managed by the Department of Public Works. There are over 100 surface lots in Madison, and most are open to the public. Parking in a surface lot is free for the first two hours, and then it is $1 per hour thereafter.

Madison parking lots:

  • Parking on the square in Madison is $1 per hour.

  • The parking lot at the corner of Main and High Streets is $2 per hour.

  • The parking lot at the corner of Washington and Jefferson Streets is $3 per hour.

  • The parking lot at the corner of Madison and Monroe Streets is $4 per hour.

  • The parking lot at the corner of Adams and Jackson Streets is $5 per hour.

Monthly parking in Madison

If you're looking for monthly parking in Madison, you have a few options. You can park in a garage, on the street, or in a lot. Each option has its own pros and cons, so you'll need to decide what's best for you. Street parking is usually the most convenient, but it can be hard to find a spot. Parking in a garage is more expensive, but it's also more secure. Lots are a good middle ground, but they may not be available in all areas.

Madison monthly parking rates:

  • Downtown - $200

  • Capitol Hill - $150

  • University Hill - $100

  • Near West Side - $75

  • Near East Side - $50

  • Atwood - $40

  • Marquette - $30

  • Sherman - $20

  • Allied Drive - $10

Overnight parking in Madison

In the City of Madison, overnight parking is not allowed on city streets from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. This is to allow for street cleaning and snow plowing. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as for medical emergencies or if you have a disabled parking permit. If you need to park on the street overnight, you can apply for a permit from the city.

Madison overnight parking rates:

  • Downtown - $2 per hour

  • Near West Side - $1.50 per hour

  • East Side - $1 per hour

  • Near South Side - $1 per hour

  • South Side - $0.50 per hour

Long term parking in Madison

If you're looking for long term parking in Madison, you have a few options. You can park in a metered spot for up to two hours, or in a residential area with a permit. There are also a few parking ramps downtown that offer long term parking.

Madison long term parking rates:

  • Downtown - $2 per hour

  • Capitol Square - $2 per hour

  • Isabella Street - $1 per hour

  • Atwood Avenue - $1 per hour

  • Eken Park - $0.50 per hour

  • Tenney Park - $0.50 per hour

  • Olin Park - $0.50 per hour

  • Warner Park - $0.50 per hour

EV charging stations in Madison

There are a few electric vehicle charging stations in Madison. They are located at the Alliant Energy Center, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Wisconsin State Capitol. The Alliant Energy Center has four electric vehicle charging stations, which are available for use by the public. The University of Wisconsin-Madison has two electric vehicle charging stations, which are available for use by students, faculty, and staff. The Wisconsin State Capitol has one electric vehicle charging station, which is available for use by state employees.

Madison EV & Tesla charging stations:

  • electric vehicle charging locations in Madison

  • 1414 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI

  • 1201 Williamson St, Madison, WI

  • 1555 W Mifflin St, Madison, WI

  • 1726 Monroe St, Madison, WI

  • 1810 Aberg Ave, Madison, WI

  • 2222 S Park St, Madison, WI

  • 2311 University Ave, Madison, WI

  • 2424 University Ave, Madison, WI

  • 2626 University Ave, Madison, WI

Airport parking in Madison

The Dane County Regional Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking, as well as a cell phone waiting lot. Prices for parking range from $1-15 per day, depending on the type of parking and length of stay.

Madison airport parking:

  • Dane County Regional Airport - $2 per hour, $10 per day

  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport - $25 per day

  • Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport - $17 per day

  • Rockford International Airport - $10 per day

Madison hotels with free parking

If you're looking for free hotel parking in Madison, you're in luck. There are a number of hotels that offer free parking for guests, including the Hilton Garden Inn, Marriott, and Sheraton. Whether you're staying for a night or a week, you'll be able to find a hotel that offers free parking.

Hotels in Madison with free parking:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Madison/Downtown

  • Hilton Madison Monona Terrace

  • Sheraton Madison Hotel

  • Marriott Madison West

  • Hyatt Regency Madison

  • The Edgewater

  • The Inn on Lake Mendota

  • The Lowell Center

  • The Wisconsin Union Hotel

  • The Chancellor Hotel

Madison parking permit

Permit parking in Madison is a great way to ensure you have a spot to park your car. There are a few things you need to do in order to get started. First, you need to find out if your street is permit parking or not. If it is, you need to buy a permit from the city. Once you have your permit, you can park your car in any spot that is designated for permit holders.

Free parking in Madison

Looking for free parking in Madison? Here are a few tips: 1. Check the Park Madison website for a list of all the free parking options in the city. 2. Download the Park Madison app to your smartphone for real-time parking availability. 3. If you're still having trouble finding a spot, stop by one of the Visitor Information Centers for help.

Madison disability parking

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there are over 1,700 designated handicap parking spots in the city of Madison. Handicap parking is available in all public parking areas, including on-street parking, parking meters, and parking lots. There are also a number of private parking facilities that offer handicap parking.

How to Avoid Parking Tickets in Madison

In Madison, street parking can be tricky. Here are a few tips to avoid getting a ticket: 1. Check the signs carefully. Each block has different parking rules and they are strictly enforced. 2. Pay attention to the time limits. Many blocks have two hour limits and if you stay longer than that, you will likely get a ticket. 3. If you do get a ticket, don't panic. You can usually pay it online or by mail.

Motorcycle Parking in Madison

The City of Madison offers a variety of motorcycle parking options throughout the downtown area. Motorcyclists can find parking in any regular parking spot, in designated motorcycle parking areas, or in special event parking areas. To find motorcycle parking, look for signs that say "Motorcycles Only" or "Motorcycles Welcome."

RV Parking in Madison

There are many places to park your recreational vehicle in Madison. The most popular spot is the Campsite at the Alliant Energy Center, which offers over 400 sites for RV parking. Other popular spots include the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center and the Olin Park Campground. You can also find RV parking at many of the city's hotels and motels.

Madison Airports

Dane County Regional Airport Parking

If you're flying into Dane County Regional Airport, you'll need to know where to park. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options. Short-term parking is located close to the terminal, while long-term parking is located a bit further away. There is also a cell phone lot where you can wait for arriving passengers.

Best Dane County Regional Airport Parking Locations:

  • Surface Lot: 4000 International Ln, Madison

  • Cell Phone Lot: Madison

  • Rental Lot: Rental Car Return, Madison

Madison Stadiums

Camp Randall Stadium Parking

If you're going to a University of Wisconsin football game, you'll need to know where to park. Camp Randall Stadium is located at 1440 Monroe Street in Madison. There are a few different options for parking, but the best bet is to find a spot in one of the many parking garages or surface lots near the stadium. Just be sure to arrive early, as parking can fill up quickly on game day.

Best Camp Randall Stadium Parking Locations:

  • Parking ramp D: 212 N Carroll St, Madison

  • Casa Blanca Parking: 468-414 Walnut St, Madison

  • University Square Parking Garage: 324 N Lake St, Madison

  • Metropolitan Place Parking: 335 W Mifflin St, Madison

  • Overture Center Garage: 318 W Mifflin St, Madison

  • State Street Parking Ramp: 417-433 N Lake St, Madison

  • 7 S Randall Ave Parking: 7S N Randall Ave, Madison

  • Lot 76: 2501 University Bay Dr, Madison

  • Buckeye Parking Lot: 214 W Gorham St, Madison

  • Parking Lot 44: 965 W Dayton St, Madison

  • 149 W Gorham St Parking: 149 W Gorham St, Madison

  • 309 N Henry St Parking: 309 N Henry St, Madison

  • Lake & Johnson Ramp: Madison

  • Parking Lot 9: Parking Lot 9, 955 Observatory Dr, Madison

  • 126 Langdon St Parking: 126 Langdon St, Madison

  • Union South Garage: 1308 W Dayton St #1398, Madison

  • Wingra Parking Lot: 1705 Monroe St, Madison

  • WISCONSIN AVENUE PARKING COMPANY, LLC: 519 Wisconsin Ave, Madison

  • Helen C. White Garage: 600 N Park St, Madison

  • Brittingham Park Parking Lot: 829 W Washington Ave, Madison

Madison Restaurants

The Old Fashioned Parking

If you're looking for a great place to eat in Madison, you can't go wrong with The Old Fashioned. The food is fantastic, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. But one thing to keep in mind if you're planning on dining at The Old Fashioned is that parking can be a bit tricky. The restaurant is located in downtown Madison, and street parking can be hard to come by. There are a few parking lots in the area, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. So if you're planning on eating at The Old Fashioned, it's best to leave yourself plenty of time to find a parking spot.

Ian's Pizza on State Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Ian's Pizza on State in 100 State Street, Madison, you're in luck. There are plenty of parking options in the area, including a few parking garages and surface lots. The closest parking garage is the Capitol Square North Garage, which is just a block away from the restaurant. There are also several surface lots in the area, including the State Street Capitol Lot and the Wisconsin State Capitol Lot.

Dotty Dumpling's Dowry Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Dotty Dumpling's Dowry restaurant in 317 North Frances Street, Madison, you're in luck. There are plenty of parking options in the area, including street parking and a few parking lots. Street parking is usually available on weekdays, but can be limited on weekends. Parking lots are typically open during restaurant hours, but may charge a fee.

Nitty Gritty-Madison Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Nitty Gritty-Madison, you'll find plenty of options on Frances Street. There are a few metered spots right in front of the restaurant, and a few more a block or two away. There are also a few private lots in the area, but they can be a bit pricey. If you don't mind walking a few blocks, you should be able to find a spot without too much trouble.

Willy Street Co-op Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Willy Street Co-op restaurant in 1221 Williamson Street, Madison, you're in luck. There are plenty of parking options in the area, including street parking and a few parking lots. Street parking is usually available on weekdays, but can be limited on weekends. There are also a few parking lots in the area, but they can fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early if you're planning to park there.

Graze Restaurant Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Graze Restaurant, there are a few options available. There is a parking garage located on East Washington Avenue, just a block away from the restaurant. There is also street parking available on South Pinckney Street, but it can be difficult to find a spot during peak hours. If you're willing to walk a few blocks, there is usually plenty of street parking available on side streets.

Tornado Steak House Parking

If you're looking for a good steak in Madison, you can't go wrong with Tornado Steak House. The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown, and it's easy to find parking nearby. There are a few parking garages within a block or two of the restaurant, and street parking is also available. Just be sure to read the signs carefully, as some of the streets have time limits.

The Coopers Tavern Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near The Coopers Tavern restaurant in 20 West Mifflin Street, Madison, you're in luck. There are several parking options within a short walk of the restaurant. On-street parking is available on West Mifflin Street and other nearby streets. There are also several parking lots and garages in the area.

Weary Traveler Freehouse Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Weary Traveler Freehouse restaurant in 1201 Williamson Street, Madison, you're in luck. There are plenty of parking options in the area, including street parking and a few parking lots. Street parking is usually available on weekdays, but can be limited on weekends. There are also a few parking lots near the restaurant, so you should be able to find a spot there.

State Street Brats Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near State Street Brats in Madison, you'll find plenty of options. There are several parking garages and surface lots within a few blocks of the restaurant, and on-street parking is also available. Most of the parking options are pay-to-park, so be sure to have some cash or a credit card handy.

Madison Attractions

Madison Children's Museum Parking

If you're planning on visiting the Madison Children's Museum with your family, you'll be happy to know that there is plenty of parking available nearby. There are a few parking lots within a block of the museum, as well as street parking. However, it is important to note that the street parking can be quite limited, so it's best to arrive early to ensure you can find a spot.

James Madison Park Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near James Madison Park, there are a few options available. There is a parking lot located at the park, as well as street parking in the surrounding area. Keep in mind that street parking can be limited, so it's best to arrive early if you're planning on parking in this area. There is also a parking garage located at the park, which is a great option if you're looking for covered parking.

Chazen Museum of Art Parking

If you're planning on visiting the Chazen Museum of Art, be sure to allow yourself extra time to find parking. The museum is located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, and parking can be limited and difficult to find. There are a few parking lots near the museum, but they tend to fill up quickly. If you can't find a spot in one of the lots, your best bet is to find street parking. Be aware that parking meters are in effect Monday-Saturday from 8am-6pm, and you'll need to pay for your parking.

Wisconsin State Capitol Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near the Wisconsin State Capitol, there are a few options available. There is a parking garage located at 2 East Main Street, which offers both hourly and daily rates. There is also street parking available in the area, but it can be difficult to find a spot during peak hours. If you're planning on visiting the Capitol during business hours, it's best to arrive early or park in a nearby garage.

Madison Museum of Contemporary Art Parking

If you're planning on visiting the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, be aware that parking can be difficult to find in the area. The best bet is to park in one of the nearby parking garages, such as the Capitol Square North Garage or the State Street Capitol Garage. Both are within walking distance of the museum. Street parking is also available, but it can be hard to find a spot and the meters can be expensive.

Wisconsin Veterans Museum Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near the Wisconsin Veterans Museum in Madison, you'll find plenty of options. There are several parking garages and surface lots within a few blocks of the museum, and street parking is also available. Rates vary, but you can expect to pay around $2-3 per hour for parking.

Escape This Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Escape This in 120 East Wilson Street #2, Madison, you're in luck! There are plenty of parking options in the area, including street parking and public parking lots. Street parking is usually available on weekdays, but can be limited on weekends. Public parking lots are typically open 24 hours a day, but may have limited availability on weekends.

Law Park Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Law Park in 410 South Blair Street, Madison, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of options available. There are several parking lots and garages in the area, as well as street parking. If you're planning to visit Law Park, be sure to allow yourself enough time to find a parking spot.

Allen Centennial Garden Parking

If you're looking for a place to park near Allen Centennial Garden, 620 Babcock Drive is a great option. There are plenty of parking spots available, and it's close to the garden so you won't have to walk far. Just be sure to read the signs carefully so you don't park in a spot that's reserved for something else.

Wisconsin Historical Museum Parking

If you're planning on visiting the Wisconsin Historical Museum, be aware that parking can be difficult to find in the area. The best bet is to park in one of the nearby parking garages, such as the Capitol Square North Garage or the State Street Capitol Garage. Both are within walking distance of the museum. Street parking is also available, but it can be hard to find a spot and the meters can be expensive.

Madison FAQ's

Is street parking free in Madison?

There is no street parking available in the City of Madison.

How to get Madison parking tax exemption?

The City of Madison offers a parking tax exemption for certain types of vehicles. To qualify for the exemption, the vehicle must be:/n/n-A passenger car with a seating capacity of not more than eight passengers/n-A motorcycle/n-A truck with a gross vehicle weight of not more than 8,000 pounds/n-An RV or camper that is self-propelled and designed for human habitation/n-A boat that is used for transportation on water/n-A snowmobile/n-An ATV that is used for transportation on snow or ice/n/nTo apply for the exemption, you will need to complete a Parking Tax Exemption Application and submit it to the City of Madison Parking Utility.

How to get valet parking in Madison?

There is no designated valet parking in Madison, however, you can find parking garages and surface lots throughout the city that offer valet services.

How much is long term parking in Madison?

The price of long term parking in Madison varies depending on the location. However, the average price for long term parking in Madison is $2 per hour.

How does Madison fire hydrant parking work?

The Madison fire hydrant parking system is designed to allow drivers to park their vehicles in a safe and legal manner near fire hydrants. When a driver arrives at a fire hydrant, they will first need to find a spot that is not blocked by other vehicles. Once they have found a spot, they will need to park their vehicle in a way that does not block the hydrant. Once the vehicle is parked, the driver will need to turn on their hazard lights and place a fire hydrant parking permit on their dashboard.

Madison parking rules on holidays?

There is no specific information on parking rules for holidays. However, it is generally recommended that you check with the local parking authority for specific information.

Madison bus stop parking rules?

You can park your car in a bus stop only if you are picking up or dropping off a passenger. You must be within 10 feet of the bus stop sign and cannot block the sidewalk.

How to get a Madison disability parking permit?

In order to get a Madison disability parking permit, you will need to contact the Madison Parking Utility.

How much is a parking ticket in Madison?

A parking ticket in Madison can cost anywhere from $20 to $200.

How to pay a Madison parking ticket?

If you have received a parking ticket in the City of Madison, you can pay it online, by mail, or in person.

Where to find truck parking in Madison?

The best place to find truck parking in Madison is at the truck stop on the outskirts of town.

Is Madison parking free on Sundays and holidays?

Yes, parking is free on Sundays and holidays in Madison.

How to contest a Madison parking ticket?

The first step is to find the ticket and make sure that it is yours. If it is not your ticket, you can contest it by going to the court and showing them that it is not your ticket. If it is your ticket, you can contest it by going to the court and showing them that you were not parked in the spot that you were ticketed for.

Where to find hotels with parking in Madison?

There are a number of hotels with parking in Madison. Some of these include the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace, the Marriott Madison West, and the Sheraton Madison Hotel.

Where to find Madison self parking?

There are many self-parking options in Madison. The most popular self-parking option is the City of Madison Parking Utility, which offers many different parking options throughout the city.

Where to find Madison alternate side street parking?

The City of Madison offers a searchable database of alternate side street parking locations: https://www.cityofmadison.com/parking-utility/find-parking/

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