Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Madison?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Madison is Downtown, particularly around the Capitol Square and State Street, as it offers the most comprehensive experience for visitors.

This neighbourhood is the heart of the city, perfectly situated on an isthmus between Lake Monona and Lake Mendota. Capitol Square, which surrounds the Wisconsin State Capitol building, is a focal point for local events and features a wide array of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. State Street extends west from the Capitol to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, offering a lively pedestrian mall with more dining and shopping options.

Couples often find Downtown ideal for a romantic getaway. You're within walking distance of the Overture Center for the Arts for theatre and concerts, and there are numerous high-end restaurants for an evening out. Strolling around the Capitol grounds or along the lakefront paths provides a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Solo travellers will also appreciate Downtown for its convenience and accessibility. Public transport is readily available, connecting you to other parts of the city.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Madison that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Madison that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are The Edgewater and Mansion Hill Inn.

The 4.5-star The Edgewater, with a 9.2 rating, is an excellent choice known for its beautiful location near Lake Mendota. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the amazing rooms, and the excellent service. The hotel offers luxurious amenities such as premium bedding, designer toiletries, and valet parking, and is conveniently located near the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and State Street Shopping.

Another highly recommended option is the 4-star Mansion Hill Inn, which boasts an exceptional 9.8 rating. This hotel is celebrated for its clean and amazing rooms, helpful staff, and an exceptional breakfast. It offers luxurious features like rainfall showerheads, premium bedding, a fireplace, and Frette Italian sheets. The location is perfect, with the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Chazen Museum of Art, and State Street Shopping all within easy reach.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Madison?

Accepted Answer

For families travelling to Madison, some of the best hotels include the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Madison West - Middleton by IHG, the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace, the DoubleTree by Hilton Madison East, the MainStay Suites Madison Airport, and the Best Western Premier Park Hotel.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Madison West - Middleton by IHG, with an 8.6 rating, is a great option for families. It offers connecting rooms, sofa beds, and complimentary cribs. Children will particularly enjoy the dedicated kids' pool and the complimentary water park access. Guests often highlight the clean and spacious rooms, the friendly staff, and the tasty breakfast.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star Hilton Madison Monona Terrace, rated 8.6. This hotel provides a pool, connecting rooms, and both free cribs and rollaway extra beds, ensuring comfortable stays for larger families. It is conveniently located near the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, just 0.7 km away, and the Chazen Museum of Art, 1.5 km away. Guests frequently praise its great location, clean rooms, and helpful staff.

The 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Madison East, with an impressive 9.4 rating, is highly regarded by families. It offers kids' meals, a pool, sofa beds, cribs, and connecting rooms. Its location is particularly convenient for shopping, being only 0.5 km from the East Towne Mall. Guests often comment on the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly staff, and the wonderful beds.

For a family-friendly stay, the MainStay Suites Madison Airport, rated 8.8, provides sofa beds, a children's pool, and cribs. It is located 2.0 km from the East Towne Mall. Guests appreciate the nice and comfortable rooms and the attentive staff.

Finally, the 4-star Best Western Premier Park Hotel, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is a superb choice for families. It features connecting rooms, sofa beds, complimentary cribs, kids' meals, and a pool with a gate for added safety. The hotel boasts a great location, just 0.4 km from the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and 0.8 km from State Street Shopping. Reviewers often praise the comfortable and spacious rooms, the helpful staff, and the complimentary coffee.

Question 4

What are the best spa hotels in Madison?

Accepted Answer

Two excellent spa hotels in Madison that come highly recommended are The Edgewater and the Best Western Premier Park Hotel.

The Edgewater is a 4.5-star hotel with a superb 9.2 rating, offering an extensive full-service spa. Guests can enjoy a wide range of treatments including body wraps, manicures, pedicures, deep tissue massage, and Swedish massage, with options for couples' treatment rooms and sports massage. The spa also features a steam room and hot tub. The hotel's location is highly praised, being close to the Wisconsin Union Theater, Overture Centre for the Arts, and the Wisconsin State Capitol.

Another top choice is the 4-star Best Western Premier Park Hotel, which boasts an outstanding 9.6 rating. This hotel also provides a full-service spa for guests to enjoy. It is conveniently located near the Overture Centre for the Arts, the Wisconsin State Capitol, and the Orpheum Theater, making it ideal for those wishing to explore the city's cultural attractions. See all spa hotels in Madison

Question 5

What hotels in Madison offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Madison that offer complimentary breakfast, consider the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central by IHG, the 3.5-star Embassy Suites By Hilton Madison Downtown, the 4-star Mansion Hill Inn, the Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown, and the 3-star Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central Alliant Energy Center.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central by IHG boasts an exceptional 9.8 rating. Guests frequently praise the excellent staff and the comfortable, clean rooms. It provides free buffet breakfast, free self-parking, and a free shuttle service to the airport and local areas. Nearby points of interest include Olin Beach, just 0.7 km away, and Olin Park, 0.5 km away.

The 3.5-star Embassy Suites By Hilton Madison Downtown also has an outstanding 9.8 rating. It offers free cooked breakfast daily, and guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, as well as its superb location. It is conveniently located 0.8 km from the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and 1.1 km from State Street Shopping.

The 4-star Mansion Hill Inn, with a 9.8 rating, provides free continental breakfast. Reviewers often praise its clean and amazing rooms, helpful staff, and superb location. It is situated 0.5 km from the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and 0.7 km from State Street Shopping.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown, rated 9.6, offers a choice of free buffet or continental breakfast. Guests frequently mention the comfortable and clean rooms, friendly staff, and excellent pool. This hotel is very close to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, just 0.4 km away, and State Street Shopping, 0.3 km away.

Finally, the 3-star Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central Alliant Energy Center, with a 9.6 rating, also includes free continental breakfast. Travellers appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, friendly staff, and comfy beds. It is located 1.2 km from Olin Park and 1.1 km from Quann Park Dog Park.

Question 6

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Madison?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Madison, consider the Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHG, The Edgewater, or the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Madison, WI.

The 3.5-star Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHG, with an excellent 9.6 rating, welcomes both dogs and cats and provides food and water bowls. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and great staff, spacious and clean rooms, and a great location. It is conveniently close to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Lake Mendota, and State Street Shopping.

Another excellent choice is the 4.5-star The Edgewater, rated 9.2, which is pet-friendly for dogs and also offers food and water bowls. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, great and amazing rooms, and a beautiful location. It is very close to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and State Street Shopping.

The 3-star Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Madison, WI, with an 8.6 rating, is a good option for dog owners, providing food and water bowls. Guests often mention the comfortable and clean rooms, great breakfast, and exceptional staff. This hotel is located close to the Aldo Leopold Nature Centre and Monona Dog Park. See more pet-friendly hotels in Madison

Question 7

What are the top boutique hotels in Madison?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in Madison, consider The Edgewater, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Madison, and Moxy Madison Downtown.

The 4.5-star Edgewater, with an excellent 9.2 rating, is a beautiful option praised not only for its great location but also for its exceptional service and friendly staff. It offers a full-service spa with a wide array of treatments including body wraps, massages, and facials, along with a steam room and hot tub. It is conveniently located near the Overture Centre for the Arts (0.5 km) and the Wisconsin State Capitol (0.6 km).

Another highly-rated choice is the 3-star SpringHill Suites by Marriott Madison, boasting an outstanding 9.6 rating. Guests consistently highlight its great location, spacious and spotless rooms, and the professional and friendly staff. It also provides a complimentary buffet breakfast and free WiFi.

The 3.5-star Moxy Madison Downtown, rated 9.2, is much-loved for its great location and excellent amenities. Guests frequently comment on the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff. It offers free WiFi and valet parking, and is located within easy reach of the Overture Centre for the Arts (1.3 km) and the Wisconsin State Capitol (1.2 km).

Question 8

What are the best budget hotels in Madison?

Accepted Answer

For some excellent budget hotels in Madison, consider the Homewood Suites by Hilton Madison West, Hyatt Place Madison / Verona, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison by IHG.

The 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Madison West, with a superb 9.4 rating, offers complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Guests appreciate the clean and quiet rooms, as well as the friendly and amazing staff. It is conveniently located near Walnut Grove Dog Park, which is just 1.8 km away.

Another top choice is the 3-star Hyatt Place Madison / Verona, also rated an impressive 9.4. This hotel provides free self-parking and complimentary breakfast. Travellers frequently mention the nice, clean rooms and the great, friendly staff, as well as its quiet location. It is located just 0.7 km from Wisconsin Brewing Company.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison by IHG, boasting a 9.4 rating, provides free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free airport transportation. Guests consistently highlight the clean and big rooms, good beds, and the great breakfast.

Other highly-rated options include the 3-star Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Madison West - Middleton by IHG, rated 8.6, which offers free airport transportation and an area shuttle. Guests have praised its clean and big rooms and amazing staff. It's located 1.8 km from the National Mustard Museum.

Finally, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Madison West, WI, with an 8.8 rating, also offers complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Guests often compliment the nice, clean rooms, excellent staff, and comfortable beds. It is very close to the National Mustard Museum, only 0.9 km away. View all budget hotels in Madison

Question 9

What are the most romantic hotels in Madison for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic stay in Madison, the 4-star Mansion Hill Inn and the 3-star Hotel Ruby Marie are excellent choices for couples.

The Mansion Hill Inn, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers a truly luxurious experience. Guests frequently highlight the amazing, clean rooms and the helpful staff. The free continental breakfast is described as exceptional, and the location is considered great for exploring the city. This hotel also features private indoor hot tubs and balconies, great for a romantic retreat. It is conveniently located near the Wisconsin Union Theater (1.1 km), the Overture Centre for the Arts (0.5 km), and the Wisconsin State Capitol (0.5 km).

Another wonderful option is the 3-star Hotel Ruby Marie, rated 9.4. This hotel is praised for its beautiful, spacious rooms and the delicious free breakfast. Guests also appreciate the friendly and amazing staff. Some rooms offer partial or full lake views, and the hotel features fireplaces, adding to its romantic appeal. It is situated within easy reach of the Wisconsin State Capitol (0.8 km) and the Overture Centre for the Arts (0.9 km).

Question 10

What are the best hotels in Madison near Memorial Union Terrace?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Madison near Memorial Union Terrace, consider the Mansion Hill Inn or the DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown.

The 4-star Mansion Hill Inn, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, is praised for its great location and clean, amazing rooms. Guests also highlight the helpful staff and exceptional free breakfast, which includes continental options.

Another excellent choice is the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown, rated 9.6. This hotel is centrally located, with State Street Shopping just 0.3 km away and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art 0.5 km away. Guests frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable rooms, and the delicious free breakfast. The hotel also offers connecting rooms and free cribs, making it suitable for families.

Question 11

When is the best time to go to Madison?

Accepted Answer

The best times to visit Madison are typically during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the city is particularly inviting.

Spring in Madison sees temperatures ranging from cool to mild, with average highs between 10°C and 20°C. The city's many parks and green spaces, such as the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, begin to bloom, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities like walking or cycling around Lake Monona or Lake Mendota. This period is also great for couples who enjoy exploring the city's outdoor attractions before the summer crowds arrive.

Autumn offers similarly agreeable temperatures, usually between 10°C and 20°C, and the vibrant fall foliage around the lakes and across the university campus is stunning. This season is ideal for those who appreciate scenic beauty and a relaxed pace. Visitors can enjoy farmers' markets, like the Dane County Farmers' Market on the Capitol Square, which runs into early November, or take a scenic drive to see the changing leaves. For solo travellers, the cooler weather is great for exploring the city's museums, like the Chazen Museum of Art, and enjoying the local cafe culture.

While summer (June to August) is warm and popular for lake activities and festivals, it can be quite busy and humid. Winter (November to March) is cold with snow, offering opportunities for ice skating or cross-country skiing, but many outdoor attractions are less accessible.

Question 12

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Madison.

Question 13

How can I save on a hotel booking in Madison with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Madison hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 14

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Madison?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Madison often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$124 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	18.7°F (-7.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
November	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	26.6°F (-3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

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Our top choices for Madison hotels

1. The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor's Club

2. Hyatt Place Madison Downtown

3. AmericInn by Wyndham Madison West

4. Best Western Premier Park Hotel

5. Best Western Plus InnTowner Madison

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Madison West/Middleton

7. Embassy Suites By Hilton Madison Downtown

8. Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central Alliant Energy Center

9. Moxy Madison Downtown

10. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison West - Middleton by IHG

11. avid hotels Madison - Monona by IHG

12. Hotel Ruby Marie

13. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Madison American Center

14. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Middleton - Madison West

15. AmericInn by Wyndham Madison South

16. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Madison East

17. Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown

18. Spark By Hilton Madison Central

19. AC Hotel by Marriott Madison Downtown

20. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central by IHG

Our guide on where to stay in Madison

Downtown Madison

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