I would suggest staying in downtown Madison so you can walk to restaurants, cultural sites and more. There are some great options. Our recommendations include:
Graduate Madison: This is a great boutique hotel in a perfect location a block off State Street, between the University and the Capitol. It has a preppy, college theme. There is a small casual cafe, Poindexter Coffee, on the first floor and a fun rooftop bar and restaurant called Camp Trippalindee inpired by the 1980’s camp movies and Wisconsin supper clubs. 601 Langdon St. It is a popular chain, opening recently in a number of college and university town.
Mansion Hill Inn: This is a lovely B&B with ten rooms located in a beautifully restored mansion, from 1857, a short walk from Capitol Square. It is at 424 N. Pinckney St.
The Buckingham Inn at 1615 Summit Ave. is another good option. It is a B&B on the west edge of the University of Wisconsin.
The Edgewater: This is an upscale hotel property located along Lake Mendota. It opened in 1948 and was totally renovated in 2014 where two existing buildings were remodeled and a new tower added. It is in a great location for walking downtown to shops and restaurants. There are a number of dining options from the Boathouse for casual dining to the upscale Statehouse with stunning views of the lake. 1001 Wisconsin Place.
Recently opened is the AC Hotel Madison Downtown. It is a 165 room, contemporary hotel with a sleek design and great location from which to explore downtown. It also has the Eno Vino Wine Bar and Bistro on the 10th floor. I am excited to try it on my next trip.
I also like Hyatt Place. They have the Hyatt Place Madison/Downtown at 333 W. Washington Ave. in the heart of downtown.