San Damiano Park
A one-of-a-kind Lake Monona destination
built on environmental, historical, cultural,
and recreational value.
The Park
The park known as San Damiano has been described as epic, iconic, even magical – and it is all of these and more. Learn more
The Plan
Learn the history of this transformational project, view the community-driven Master Plan, and discover the vision for its future as a cherished public space. Learn more
About Us
Learn about the Friends of San Damiano, how to contact us, and see press and media related to San Damiano Monona. Learn more
Conservation, grounded in community value
Friends of San Damiano envisions a vibrant, accessible space where the environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational significance of the San Damiano property is preserved and celebrated for future generations. With the completion of the master plan and the approval of Monona City Council of our Phase I conceptual plan, we are dedicated to stewarding this land in partnership with the City of Monona and the Dane County community, ensuring its sustainability and enriching its role as a gathering place for education, reflection, and recreation. Together, we will honor the legacy of the past while shaping a dynamic, inclusive future for all.
Thanks to our community, we’ve reached meaningful milestones this year.
November 13, 2026
As we move through the harvest season and the end of the year draws near, I find myself reflecting on just how much has happened at San Damiano Park. What began as foresight to save this special place along the shores of Lake Monona is now becoming something we can see, experience, and enjoy together.
In the spring, we celebrated the unanimous approval of our Phase I Conceptual Development Plan by Monona City Council and began the important work of writing the next chapter of San Damiano Park, as outlined in the Master Plan published in spring 2024. Improvements such as pier structures for water access, a small parking lot near Monona Drive, opportunities for play and engagement on the grounds, and the adaptive reuse of the Frank Allis House for the daily experience, which includes bathrooms and food and beverage, are all ways we plan to activate the site for our community.
We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn this iconic site into an environmental, historical, cultural, and recreational gem for all to enjoy.
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