Upcoming Events

Cruise into the History of Lake Mendota

See Madison from a different point of view with Lake Mendota historian Captain Don Sanford, author of On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota. Don will offer two completely different but equally fun narrated cruises on Lake Mendota, as well as history and nature walks through Tenney Park and along the west bank of hte Yahara River.

Betty Lou Cruises are two hours long, include appetizers and a cash bar.  Cruises depart from the Mariner’s Inn, 5339 Lighthouse Bay Dr, Madison, WI 53704.  Each cruise visits a different portion of the lake.

Madison School Community Recreation (MSCR) pontoon boat cruises are three hours long. Learn all about the lakeshore between Tenney Park and University Bay.  Cruises depart from the Tenney Park pier at 1615 Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704.

History and Nature Walks are a leisurely, two-hour hike through Tenney Park and along the west bank of the Yahara River. We’ll learn about lifeguards, businesses and Madison philanthropists. We might even see a beaver or a muskrat. Bring your umbrella if it’s raining.  

Do you need a speaker?

Don is also available for private charters or talks for your club or neighborhood group. Send him an email for more details.