Hotels in Waunakee

Waunakee: Where Rustic Charm Meets Nature's Embrace

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Waunakee is a charming small town that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and community spirit. Known as the Greatest Little Town in Wisconsin, it features picturesque parks, scenic trails, and a vibrant farmer's market that showcases local produce. Explore the serene landscapes along the Yahara River or enjoy family-friendly events throughout the year. With its welcoming atmosphere and rich Midwestern charm, Waunakee is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat and authentic small-town experiences. Visit for a taste of true Wisconsin hospitality! For great hotel rates in Waunakee, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Waunakee

Some of the best places to stay in Waunakee are Downtown Madison, Tenney-Lapham and Maple Bluff. Waunakee, Wisconsin, is a great base for exploring nearby areas like Downtown Madison, Tenney-Lapham, and Maple Bluff. Downtown Madison offers vibrant culture and dining, Tenney-Lapham boasts charming residential streets, and Maple Bluff provides scenic lakeside views. Accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly hotels to comfortable inns. For first-time visitors, Downtown Madison is ideal due to its lively atmosphere and proximity to attractions. When visiting Waunakee, you'll find convenient hotel options nearby for a comfortable stay. Here are some of the best hotels in Waunakee that our travelers love:

1. Downtown MadisonOpens in a new window: A vibrant hub filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, Downtown Madison is ideal for those seeking both city life and leisure. It's home to significant landmarks like the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Wisconsin State Capitol. In this area, consider staying at Graduate by Hilton MadisonOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel catering to adventure and business travellers, with pet-friendly amenities. Hilton Madison Monona TerraceOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, is perfect for families and offers excellent business facilities. For a touch of history, The EdgewaterOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel situated in a national historic building, provides a unique blend of adventure and business services.
2. Tenney-LaphamOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor activities, Tenney-Lapham features beautiful parks and easy access to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This location is great for those who love a mix of nature and city life. Consider Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHGOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that welcomes pets and has solid business amenities. Mendota Lake House InnOpens in a new window, a historic guesthouse, offers a unique experience for travellers interested in the area's history. For a cozy stay, The Livingston InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast, offers adventure and business services, making it a versatile option for visitors.
3. Maple BluffOpens in a new window: This picturesque area is known for its beautiful waterfront views and proximity to cultural landmarks like Capitol Square. It's an excellent choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. DoubleTree by Hilton Madison EastOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, is well-suited for business and family travellers, offering a range of amenities. For a more budget-friendly option, Madison Plaza HotelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is family-friendly and pet-friendly, featuring fun amenities for children. Residence Inn by Marriott Madison EastOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, balances business and family needs, providing essential services and pet accommodations.

Things to do in Waunakee for first times

Three days in Waunakee offer the perfect chance to enjoy its charming small-town atmosphere, with opportunities for hiking through lush forests, boating on serene lakes, and engaging in local sports. Relax in scenic parks and explore delightful shopping spots to fully experience the area’s welcoming vibe. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Waunakee:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the vibrant Capitol Square, where you can take in the stunning architecture of the Wisconsin State Capitol building. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and perhaps grab a coffee from a local café. Next, make your way to State Street Shopping, a lively pedestrian mall filled with unique shops and restaurants—perfect for picking up souvenirs or enjoying a delightful lunch. Conclude your day at James Madison Beach, where you can unwind by the water, soak in the beautiful sunset, and take in the serene views of Lake Mendota. It's an ideal spot to relax after a busy day.
• Day 2: Start your day with a refreshing visit to Lake Mendota, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline or even rent a kayak to explore the waters. After your lake activities, head to Goodspeed Pier, a charming spot perfect for a leisurely stroll, where you can enjoy the picturesque scenery and perhaps do some bird watching. Finally, wrap up your day at Allen Centennial Gardens, a stunning botanical garden that features a variety of plants and beautiful landscaping—a perfect place to relax and appreciate nature.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Governor Nelson State Park, where you can hike the scenic trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. After exploring the park, make your way to the Wisconsin Historical Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of Wisconsin through engaging exhibits and artifacts. To round off your trip, visit the quirky National Mustard Museum, where you can taste mustard from around the world and learn about the fascinating history of this beloved condiment. It's a fun and unique experience that’s sure to leave you with a smile.

4 tips to find a great Waunakee hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Waunakee is during January, February, and December when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure great value for money. Domestic travellers should aim to book their flights at least one month ahead for better prices. To fully appreciate the main attractions in this charming small town, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Key points of interest in Waunakee include its picturesque parks and local shops, making it an ideal destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for budget-friendly options in Waunakee, exploring last-minute deals can be a great way to save on your stay. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find affordable rates on hotels just before your travel date. You could also sign up for email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to receive updates on flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you score great discounts on your Waunakee getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Waunakee.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to main attractions or city centres can offer added convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher cost. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between price and ease of access to the sites you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Waunakee

Waunakee experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 18.5°F (-7.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.4°F (21.9°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Waunakee are April, July, and August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.