The park was established in the late 19th century and remains one of the oldest public spaces in the Marquette neighborhood.
The park is situated on what was once part of the estate of Harlow Orton, a former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice.
Orton Park hosts an annual free music and arts festival that has been a community tradition since the mid-1960s.
The surrounding residential neighborhood features a high concentration of homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The park's topography includes a gentle slope that acts as a natural amphitheater for outdoor performances.
Orton Park is a historic 2.7-acre neighborhood park located in the Marquette neighborhood on Madison’s near-east side. The park sits on a bluff overlooking Lake Monona, providing a direct view of the downtown skyline. It is widely recognized for its Victorian-era aesthetic, characterized by mature oak trees and traditional park design. The site serves as the host for the long-running Orton Park Festival, typically held in late summer. Facilities include a playground, a basketball court, and open green space. It is managed by the City of Madison Parks Division.
The lakeside edge of the park looking back toward the Wisconsin State Capitol building during golden hour.
Visit during the annual late-summer festival for local live music, food, and community craft vendors.
Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy the view of the lake, as seating options are limited to benches.
Utilize the nearby bike path connections if arriving on two wheels, as the park is a popular junction for local cyclists.
Do not attempt to park directly on Spaight Street during major neighborhood events, as resident permit parking is strictly enforced.
Leash laws apply to all dogs; carry-in, carry-out trash policy is in effect.
