Last Updated on May 12, 2025 by Katrina

Photo credit: The Edgewater Hotel

The charms of Madison, Wisconsin, are a triple threat. It’s the state capital, it sits along scenic lakes, and it’s a classic college town, as the home of the University of Wisconsin. Whether you choose to stay closer to the campus or the capitol building, you’ll have easy access to all the sights of this Wisconsin hub. Here are five of the best hotels in Madison.

The Edgewater Hotel (1001 Wisconsin Pl.; 608-535-8200) Downtown

Located along the shore of Lake Mendota, the 202-room Edgewater “is a hit with couples looking for a quiet romantic getaway, due in part to its well-equipped digs,” writes U.S. News & World Report, which recommends “booking a lake-view room for even more serenity.” The AAA Four Diamond hotel, which dates back to 1949, also has a spa, four restaurants, and easy access to both the capitol (five blocks) and the college campus (a half mile). One Tripadvisor user calls it “a wonderful splurge” while another writes “I loved opening my window and hearing the waves crash, seeing the ducks and watching the morning rowing teams.” >> Book this hotel for less

Graduate by Hilton Madison (601 Langdon St; 608-257-4391) Downtown

U.S. News & World Report calls this branch of Hilton’s college-town chain “a swanky and collegiate-themed boutique property on the eastern edge of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s campus, and a block from Lake Mendota. The 72 rooms and suites feature plaid accents and academic-themed artwork.” The dog-friendly hotel has two restaurants, including a rooftop bar with fire pits. Some online reviewers note that the hotel can get noisy due to its proximity to college bars, and one Google reviewer notes that it’s “parking is valet only, as this section of Madison has very limited parking. The coffee shop on the first floor was quite convenient. We would definitely stay here again.”  >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHG (901 E Washington Ave.; 608-256-0061) Downtown

You’re a short walk from Capitol Square at this Hotel Indigo that a Tripadvisor reviewer calls “unique—it used to be a paint factory. There are many restaurants to walk to nearby as well as a restaurant in the hotel.” The midcentury modern décor plays off that paint-factory past—like paint rollers as wall art and colorful curtains that look like drop cloths. A free shuttle will take you within a three-mile radius. A Google reviewer likes that “rooms are spacious—they have a very fun vintage vibe. Front desk staff are super-friendly and welcoming.” >> Book this hotel for less

AC Hotel Madison Downtown (One N Webster St.; 608- 286-1337) Downtown

U.S. News & World Report calls this 165-room Marriott, located a block from Capitol Square, a “stylish property with a popular rooftop bar and restaurant.” Décor is sleek, with lots of muted earth tones that make the views of the nearby Capitol building pop. While some online users bemoan the lack of a pool, one Tripadvisor user likes the “excellent location, a short walking distance to main attractions in town. Public areas are excellent, including a small library on the second floor. Rooms on the 9th floor can get noisy towards the end of the night when the bar is closing.” >> Book this hotel for less

The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club (1 W Dayton St.; 800-356-8293) Downtown

Since this 373-room hotel is a block from Capitol Square, many of its rooms “enjoy downtown and Capitol building views,” writes U.S. News & World Report. “The top three floors have access to the Governor’s Club, which includes free breakfast and an evening happy hour.” The hotel also has an indoor pool, game room, and an onsite Starbucks. “Highly recommend upgrading to access the Governor’s Club—well worth the cost,” writes a Google reviewer. “They went above and beyond with the complementary drinks, appetizers and breakfast, along with the live music and view.” >> Book this hotel for less

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