The Edgewater

It’s all in the name at The Edgewater. Perched on the south shore of Lake Mendota, the hotel affords guests some of Madison’s best views, period — and this is a city that’s not short on natural beauty. And the hotel buildings themselves, newly renovated, are easy on the eye as well, possessed of a certain Upper-Midwest charm all their own, sturdy and un-frivolous in the American Craftsman tradition, with the occasional Art Deco indulgence.

The hotel’s 202 rooms feature completely remodeled interiors and fittings, especially in the spa-stye bathrooms, which include Kohler fixtures, oversize tubs with rain showers, and in-mirror TVs. Most rooms take full advantage of the unobstructed lake vista with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and/or private terraces. Relax and unwind on pillow-top mattresses with Egyptian cotton sheets — HDTV and an in-room wet bar certainly help, here. For extra points, mosey down to the full-service spa and fitness center for a session with a personal trainer, massage or mani/pedi.

Alimentary offerings comprise three restaurants and a café called, The Market, all overseen by Executive Chef Juan Martinez. His New American, regionally sourced specialties grace the tables of signature Statehouse restaurant, as well as the more casual Boathouse and Icehouse, highlights of the waterfront and the central plaza, respectively. And, of course, thoroughly local and justly famous craft brews remain the order of the day in these hardier climes, though Martinez's custom cocktails put up a brave fight. You won’t lack for handy tipples, either, as Wisconsinites take pride in the fact that the state consistently ranks among the nation’s highest in alcohol consumption per capita. While you’re at it, sample the wares and take in one of the plaza’s many events: concerts, conventions and a converted skating rink in winter. Rumor has it there’s even a dinner cruise in the works….