A few years ago, when Kevin and I were looking to move and upgrade our Madison-area home, I really only had one non-negotiable: it had to be close to downtown!
If you’ve been hanging around here at HUE for any length of time, you’ve probably been able to tell that even with my UW student days behind me, the Capitol and Isthmus continue to call my name on a regular basis.
Now, as a local business owner and a mom of 2, my eyes have been further opened to what’s available around that can bring joy and culture into my family’s lives. I want to be in the action. I want to stay current. There’s no better place to do that than downtown! A few weeks ago, I even teamed up with Destination Madison over on their blog, giving you all of my ideas, locations, and tips for taking FULL advantage of your next downtown Madison adventure!
From a wedding planner perspective in the event industry, downtown Madison offers a wide and exciting variety of venues and hotels to couples looking for that city, Madison-centric experience to celebrate their wedding day in. Today, I’m dropping my TOP recommendations down below! First up? Venues!
VENUES
If you’re looking for an edgy and historic location perfect for a party, The Orpheum Theater is the place to be! Located in the heart of downtown, this iconic theater has been a centerpiece of the Madison community since 1927! The art deco exterior and extravagant French Renaissance interior make for a space that is both classic and cutting edge.
This 1925 Madison-original Trachte brothers building was transformed into a stunningly unique venue that offers 9,000 sq ft of event space and a 4-season solarium! The Tinsmith features many luxury design-focused details throughout and is a part of the East Washington district expansion.
The Madison Children’s Museum holds a special place in my heart as I started my wedding career here as a venue coordinator. Their offbeat and playful event space provides unique and out-of-the-ordinary fun for whimsical weddings!
If you’re looking for an elegant, refined, and versatile wedding venue, you’ve met your match!With a variety of event space options along with lighting and sound capabilities worthy of a Broadway show, the Overture center adds a flair to every wedding there!
The Monona Terrace, on the beautiful Lake Monona, is where nature and architecture come together to provide you with an easy event space for your classic wedding day!
HOTELS
The Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor’s Club
Right in the heart of downtown, The Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor’s club is an easy location with incredible views and full-service amenities for your wedding day. With over 370 guest rooms, 27,000 square feet of event space, private dining options, and an in-house culinary team, you and your guests are set from arrival to departure for your celebration!
Just steps from Capitol Square in the center of downtown, the AC Hotel provides both stunning views and a convenient location for your big day. Their modern event space is perfect for intimate celebrations where guests can then check out their cool bar and enjoy creative catering from their in-house restaurant!
With Wisconsin local touches, vintage elements, and a summer camp-inspired rooftop bar, you’re going to love the fun and unique atmosphere at Graduate Madison for your wedding celebration. Did we mention they’re pet-friendly? BONUS!
Part of East Washington’s expansion district, Hotel Indigo is truly one-of-a-kind. With local touches and artistic flair, their flexible event spaces bring the color and character of the downtown Madison area both indoor and outdoor for versatility that inspires creativity! Their location provides a relaxed and comfortable feel to your wedding day.
Need help finding the perfect venue for your big day? Our team of wedding planning experts here at HUE can’t wait to help you plan the wedding of your dreams! Contact us today!
Chief Strategist and Creative Director of HUE by Sarah Davidson, Sarah is a sought-after event industry consultant, planner, and strategist based in Madison, WI. Follow her work on Instagram at @huebysd.