The Edgewater
Madison's lakefront landmark
★★★★★📍 Lake Mendota, Downtown Madison$$$
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Best rate guaranteed · free cancellation on most rooms
The hotel's story is a Madison story. The original Edgewater opened just after the Second World War and became the city's go-to address for visiting dignitaries and celebrations; after a long decline it was rescued by a major restoration that preserved the historic building and added the tower and plaza. The result feels both historic and new — mid-century details in the original wing, sleek lake-view rooms in the tower.
Stay craft: request a lake-view room (most have them, but the angles and balconies vary), make a dinner reservation at The Statehouse for one night, and spend an evening on the plaza at The Boathouse in summer. Walk to Capitol Square for the Saturday farmers' market in season. Parking downtown is paid; ask about valet when booking.
Practicals and fit: 1001 Wisconsin Place, on Lake Mendota in downtown Madison, about two and a half hours from Chicago and an hour and a half from Milwaukee. Pair with Cave of the Mounds, Blue Mounds State Park and New Glarus. Fit: couples, families and anyone wanting a polished lakefront base for Wisconsin's best show cave.
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Check rates →Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Cave of the Mounds?
About half an hour west of Madison in Blue Mounds, an easy morning trip before returning to the lake.
Do all rooms have lake views?
Most of the 202 rooms do, across the historic Langdon Building and the newer Wisconsin Building tower. Ask about view and balcony options when booking.
What is there to do at the hotel in winter?
The plaza becomes The Icehouse for winter gatherings, the restaurants stay busy, and the frozen lake views are striking. Downtown Madison is a short walk.
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