We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center

One John Nolen Drive, Madison, WI 53703
608-261-4000
Website
Update attraction details
Ranked #17 of 44 attractions in Madison
Type: Convention Centres, Architectural Buildings
Owner description: Guided tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building feature the history of the most controversial design of one of the world's greatest... more » Owner description: Guided tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building feature the history of the most controversial design of one of the world's greatest architects. Tour highlights include dramatic open spaces, curvilinear forms, breathtaking views, and a picture exhibit of noted photographer Pedro Guerrero. Weather permitting, guests can also visit the rooftop. Tours run daily at 1pm and cost $3 for adults and $2 for students. Free events during the spring and summer months include Concerts on the Rooftop, Dane Dances and Tunes at Monona Terrace concerts series, T'ai Chi, Lakeside Kids children's program, architectural Wright Lecture series, as well as numerous other programs for all ages. We also offer outreach programs for students. The Gift Shop, located on level 4 inside Monona Terrace, has a unique selection of Wright-inspired gifts, Wisconsin souvenirs, and specialty Items. Hours of operation are Monday - Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 3 pm. « less
Write a Review

80 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    29
    39
    10
    2
    0
Date Rating
Chicago
Top Contributor
511 reviews 511 reviews
36 attraction reviews
Reviews in 143 cities Reviews in 143 cities
141 helpful votes 141 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 May 2013 NEW

My wife and I walked around here on a recent weekend trip to Madison. This area is very nice; a beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright design along the lake shore of Lake Monona. This area is quite peaceful and full of beautiful trees.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 9 more reviews by WorldTravelers34 for Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
Top Contributor
52 reviews 52 reviews
19 attraction reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 11 April 2013

There are a variety of events hosted here, but I love coming in the summer to just hang out on many chairs and relax in the sun and by the lake. The Farmer's Market is indoors in the winter and that is pretty fun too, and its a great wedding venue too!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 15 more reviews by MissSarahJ for Madison
milwaukee, wi
Senior Contributor
21 reviews 21 reviews
5 attraction reviews
Reviews in 10 cities Reviews in 10 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 April 2013

I recently attended a conference held at Monona Terrace and my only wish is that the arena wasn't long and narrow. Seating means difficulty seeing what is taking place during presentations, even with the large screens and sound is difficult to control.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by muktownmomma for Madison
Middleton, Wisconsin
Senior Contributor
35 reviews 35 reviews
5 attraction reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 April 2013

Monona Terrace is a beautiful and unusual modern public building near the heart of downtown Madison. It's long and low, 3 stories. Various events are held here, such as the state gathering of music teachers each year. The public is invited to some performances. Also, big band music is frequently free in the basement ballroom with dancing. They have good... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 20 more reviews by Manakoora for Madison
Warrens, Wisconsin
Contributor
11 reviews 11 reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 4 April 2013

We recently attended a conference there. It's a beautiful venue, but the food was awful. The servers were great and very attentive, but they had to be embarrassed. Starting from the first cup of coffee until the dinner the last night, I was very disappointed. They even served us a salad at lunch that was frozen. The servers had to... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by Willdea for Madison
Monona T, General Manager at Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, responded to this review
9 April 2013

Thank you for your review. We are happy to hear that our staff was friendly and helpful and that you enjoyed our beautiful facility. However, it is disappointing to hear that your experience with our food did not provide you with that same experience. I have shared your comments with our catering management team, so we may investigate all of... More

Portland, Oregon
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 31 March 2013

A beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright design gracing the lakeshore. Wander around on your own or take a tour. Either way you will learn about America's preeminent architect. Great gift shop...even sells FLW design Lego sets!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by salenro for Madison
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Senior Contributor
48 reviews 48 reviews
19 attraction reviews
Reviews in 20 cities Reviews in 20 cities
15 helpful votes 15 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 27 March 2013

Excellent venue for large events and convention; a little confusing at first to use the double escalators, but once you have it down, you can find the meeting rroms. The food served was excellent, as was the service.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Menomonie, Wisconsin
Top Contributor
62 reviews 62 reviews
18 attraction reviews
Reviews in 24 cities Reviews in 24 cities
16 helpful votes 16 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 26 March 2013

The meeting rooms were comfortable and well appointed. They could provide more seating in the lobby areas for breaks. Food was not up to expectations.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 2 more reviews by ProfessorHolland for Madison
Monona T, Public Relations Manager at Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, responded to this review
28 March 2013

Thank you for your review, and we are sorry to hear that your recent visit to Monona Terrace was not exceptional. You will be pleased to know that we will be adding additional seating areas, along with plug and play work spaces throughout the building next year. Can you tell us more detail about what fell below your expectations with... More

New York
Senior Contributor
40 reviews 40 reviews
10 attraction reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
13 helpful votes 13 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 17 March 2013

Location and design is spectacular. Not much else around except a small cafe on terrace. Nice spot for lunch or drink.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 6 more reviews by jfrao for Madison
Elkhorn, Nebraska
Top Contributor
89 reviews 89 reviews
69 attraction reviews
Reviews in 17 cities Reviews in 17 cities
21 helpful votes 21 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 6 March 2013

Impressive, well-built structure on Lake Monona! Functional convention center and also a nice place to tour. Tours are offered daily at 1PM and cost $3. Unique chandeliers line this place, FLW-inspired carpet and an accurate exterior designed by FLW himself. Go and visit!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 4 more reviews by DJ B for Madison

Travellers who viewed Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center also viewed

 

Been to Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing