Hotels in Madison

Whispers of Serenity: Discover Madison's Lakeside Charm

Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, beautiful Madison enchants visitors with its small-town charm and stunning landscapes. The serene Lake Madison offers a perfect backdrop for boating, fishing, and leisurely strolls along the shore. Explore the town's rich history through its beautiful churches and the impressive Cathedral of St. Joseph, while enjoying local shops and eateries that embody the friendly spirit of the community. With its picturesque scenery and welcoming atmosphere, Madison is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a peaceful escape filled with natural beauty and cultural treasures. For the best hotel rates in Madison and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Madison

Some of the best places to stay in Madison are Brookings, Dell Rapids and Humboldt. Brookings, Dell Rapids, and Humboldt are charming destinations in South Dakota, each offering unique experiences for travelers. Brookings is vibrant, with plenty of dining and shopping options, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Dell Rapids features picturesque scenery and historic sites, while Humboldt offers a quieter, small-town atmosphere. Accommodations in these areas typically include motels and inns with free Wi-Fi, reasonable room rates, and some with indoor pools, providing comfort for all types of travelers. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Madison:

1. BrookingsOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant college town atmosphere, Brookings offers a mix of cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. The area is home to South Dakota State University, where visitors can immerse themselves in local history and culture. The Swiftel Center provides entertainment for families, while McCrory Gardens offers stunning botanical displays. For accommodations, consider Brookings InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel suitable for business and family travelers, featuring a conference center and children’s amenities. My Place Hotel - Brookings, SDOpens in a new window is another good option, a 3.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides business facilities. Lastly, Quality Inn Brookings - UniversityOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is also pet-friendly and offers essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
2. Dell RapidsOpens in a new window: Dell Rapids is a charming town perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like the Palisades State Park, ideal for adventure seekers. The Denny Sanford Premier Center hosts family-friendly events, while the Sanford Pentagon caters to sports fans. Among the hotels, Super 8 by Wyndham Airport I90Opens in a new window stands out as a 3.5-star property offering business amenities and family-friendly features. Royal River Casino and HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, adds excitement with its on-site casino, while Grand Falls Casino & Golf ResortOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star hotel, combines casino fun with business facilities and golf experiences.
3. HumboldtOpens in a new window: This quaint area is perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities, with highlights such as Lake Vermillion Recreation Area and the Porter Sculpture Park. The serene environment is great for families looking to unwind and explore nature. Sheraton Sioux Falls & Convention CenterOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers, offering various recreational activities and business amenities. Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Arpt & SuitesOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, features a casino and family-friendly services, while Best Western Plus Ramkota HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, welcomes pets and provides essential business facilities, making it a versatile choice for travelers.

Things to do in Madison for first time

A three-day visit to Madison offers a perfect blend of stunning lakes, serene parks, and charming small-town vibes. Enjoy boating on tranquil waters, hiking scenic trails, and catching breathtaking sunsets. With vibrant entertainment options and outdoor activities like golf, it's a delightful escape for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Madison:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Lake Madison, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning by the water—perfect for fishing, kayaking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. After your time at the lake, head to the Dell Rapids Library, a quaint spot where you can browse local literature or learn about the history of the area. Conclude the day at Brant Lake, another beautiful spot to unwind, offering picnic areas and scenic views that make for a perfect relaxing evening.
• Day 2: Start your day by exploring Lake Campbell, where you can engage in various water activities or take a serene walk along its shores. Next, visit the South Dakota Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in a diverse collection of art that showcases local and regional talent. Finish your day at the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum, where you’ll gain insights into the agricultural history of the state, complete with interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at St. John's Lutheran Church, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the local community's heritage. Afterward, make your way to the Miner County Courthouse, a historic building that stands as a testament to the area’s governance and history. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Grand Opera House of Dell Rapids, where you can enjoy a live performance or take a guided tour to learn about its rich theatrical history, making for a memorable conclusion to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Madison hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Madison is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are at their lowest. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure better prices. To fully experience the city's highlights, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days. Madison offers great value for money with its beautiful lake, stunning cathedral, and charming small-town vibe, making it an ideal destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're searching for last-minute deals to Madison, you might find some excellent offers on Hotels.com. To uncover these discounted rates, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. There, you could find cheaper hotel options as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you won’t miss any chances to save on your Madison hotel stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may increase your chances of saving on hotel expenses in Madison.
4. Consider your location: When booking through Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near popular attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you wish to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Madison and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

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 dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.