Hotels in Madison

Madison: Where Lakeside Serenity Meets Cultural Vibrance

Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, Madison is a charming small town that beautifully blends culture and nature. Explore the vibrant downtown, where local shops and eateries reflect the town's warm hospitality. Visit the stunning Cathedral of St. Joseph and historic churches that showcase Madison’s rich heritage. Just a stone's throw away, Lake Madison offers serene views and outdoor activities like fishing and boating. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of the university or the tranquility of the lake, Madison invites you to experience its unique charm and welcoming spirit.

Discover great hotels in Madison

Madison, South Dakota offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to comfortable mid-range options. You can find welcoming hotel rooms that cater to different needs, making it easy to enjoy your stay in this charming town. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Madison:

1. Bilmar Inn & Suites Dell RapidsOpens in a new window: Bilmar Inn & Suites Dell Rapids is a charming 2.0-star hotel that caters to travelers seeking a comfortable and pet-friendly experience. This hotel features essential amenities that ensure a cozy stay, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the pet-friendly policy, which allows for a relaxed environment. The hotel's thoughtful pet amenities and services highlight its commitment to providing a distinctive experience for visitors looking for a laid-back getaway.
2. Arlington InnOpens in a new window: Arlington Inn is a delightful 2.5-star motel, perfect for travelers who prioritize comfort and a pet-friendly atmosphere. This property stands out with its inviting ambiance and essential amenities that enhance the overall experience, making it ideal for those on the go. Visitors enjoy the flexibility of the pet policy, which accommodates their furry companions, contributing to a seamless travel experience. The welcoming environment and thoughtful features make this hotel a favorite among those looking for a cozy stay.
3. Best Western Plus Lakeview HotelOpens in a new window: Best Western Plus Lakeview Hotel is an elegant 2.5-star hotel designed for business and leisure travelers who seek a blend of comfort and functionality. This property excels with its 24-hour business center and meeting room facilities, catering to those in need of a productive stay. Guests appreciate the family-friendly amenities, including cribs, which enhance the overall experience for traveling families. The hotel's commitment to providing a versatile environment ensures that visitors can enjoy both relaxation and the conveniences of a well-equipped business stay.

Top locations to stay in Madison

When visiting Madison, South Dakota, consider staying in Wentworth, Chester, or Ramona. Wentworth offers charming local shops, Chester has beautiful parks and a friendly community, while Ramona features scenic views and outdoor activities. For first-time visitors, Chester is the best choice, providing easy access to Madison's attractions and a welcoming atmosphere.

1. ChesterOpens in a new window: Chester is a charming small town that offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for travelers looking to enjoy the simplicity of rural life. You can explore local parks for leisurely walks or picnics, and the beautiful scenery makes it ideal for outdoor photography. The town has a close-knit community feel, and you might find unique local events or fairs happening during your visit, showcasing the area’s rich culture. Chester's proximity to nearby lakes also offers opportunities for fishing and boating, making it a pleasant retreat for nature lovers.
2. WentworthOpens in a new window: Wentworth is an inviting little town where you can unwind and experience the beauty of South Dakota's countryside. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly locals, making it a great spot for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or biking along scenic trails, and the local shops provide a glimpse into the town’s unique character. Nearby lakes offer additional recreational options, ensuring plenty to do while enjoying the tranquil setting.
3. RamonaOpens in a new window: Ramona is a quaint and peaceful community that’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet getaway. Known for its strong sense of community, you can often find local gatherings and events that highlight the town's charm. The surrounding countryside is ideal for leisurely drives or bike rides, with stunning views of the rolling hills and fields. For those interested in exploring local history, Ramona has a few small museums and historical sites that reflect its heritage, making for an enriching experience while you relax and recharge.

Things to do in Madison

Madison beckons with its picturesque lakeside charm and vibrant university atmosphere. Enjoy stunning sunsets by the water, explore lush parks, or engage in outdoor activities like boating and hiking. With a lively arts scene, fun bowling alleys, and golf courses, there’s never a dull moment in this delightful destination.

• Lake MadisonOpens in a new window – Spend a day at Lake Madison, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities. Whether you prefer fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore, this picturesque lake offers a perfect backdrop for a fun-filled outing. Pack a picnic and soak in the stunning views while basking in the sun.
• Lake County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Step back in time at the Lake County Courthouse, a historic civic building that showcases beautiful architectural details and tells the story of the area’s governance. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds, and don’t forget to snap a few photos of this impressive structure that stands as a testament to Madison’s rich history.
• Prairie VillageOpens in a new window – Dive into the past at Prairie Village, a fascinating history museum where you can explore a collection of historic buildings and artifacts. Wander through the village and experience life in the early 20th century, complete with demonstrations and engaging exhibits that bring history to life in an entertaining way.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Madison

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Madison are January, June, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a great value for money experience, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully explore the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy the University of Wisconsin, take in stunning sunsets by the lake, and immerse yourself in local entertainment options like theaters and bowling alleys. Additionally, don’t miss the charm of the local churches and the surrounding small-town vibe, as well as opportunities for golf.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover great hotel deals in Madison, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available in the app helps you compare room rates and amenities, ensuring you have the best options at your fingertips. You'll be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available, making it easier to plan that last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a Madison hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans toward the higher end, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, which could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can provide convenience, but it often comes with higher costs. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further away, which can give you a good balance of price and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. Independent hotels located a little outside the main areas usually tend to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Become a Member: Join now for free and start planning your next stay in Madison! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide, allowing you to save on your bookings. Enjoy the benefits of quick tier progression, which can lead to perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these fantastic offers—sign up today!

Best time to go to Madison

Madison experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 15.6°F (-9.1°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.7°F (22.6°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Madison are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.