Getting Here
Madison (MSN)
Madison’s Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is the closet and easiest option for those flying into town. The airport is a 15 minute drive to downtown Madison and our venue.
Milwaukee (MKE)
The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is a good option if you’re looking to avoid a connection or save some money. The airport is a 1.5 hr drive from downtown Madison. Consider renting a car, or catching one of the buses (Badger Bus) that run from the airport to downtown Madison.
Chicago (ORD)
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is the largest airport within a reasonable driving distance. The airport is a 2 hr drive from downtown Madison. Consider renting a car, or catching one of the buses (Coach USA) that run from the airport to downtown Madison. If you rent a car, ask your rental agency about fees for tolls.
Accommodations
The Capitol Square is the heart of downtown Madison and our venue is a short walk - about 15 minutes - west. We recommend staying downtown as there is lots to do and many conveniently located hotel options. Use the links below to book into our room blocks at the reserved rate.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Madison Downtown
Stay with us! Just a block off of the Capitol Square and Lake Monona, the Embassy Suites is centrally located downtown. We have secured a room block rate of $209/night that will be held through Wednesday, June 25th 2025.
AC Hotel Madison Downtown
Located just a block off of the Capitol Square, the AC Marriott is also centrally located in downtown Madison. We have secured a room block rate of $249/night with the hotel that will be held through Friday, June 6th 2025.
Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown
Located next door to The Harvey House, the Hilton Garden Inn is a convenient option and the closest hotel to our venue. We have secured a discounted room block rate of $229/night with the hotel that will be held through Wednesday, June 25th 2025.
If you are interested in other options, here are a few additional hotel suggestions.
- The Edgewater Hotel
- The Madison Concourse Hotel
- The Park Hotel Use code “MADISOCIAL” for a 12% discount
You won’t find many short-term rental options downtown. If you’re interested in renting a larger house or staying in a quieter area further from downtown, consider the neighborhoods below for Airbnb or VRBO options. These areas are generally a 10 - 20 minute drive from our venue.
- Monona Neighborhood
- Williamson “Willy” Street Neighborhood
- Atwood Neighborhood
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Kendall & Simon via kendallsimonwedding@gmail.com if you have other questions about where to stay.
Food & Drink
It’s said that Wisconsin has more bars per capita than any other state. Though we think that England might give Wisconsin a run for its money, Madison has no shortage of bars and restaurants. Below are a few old-time favorites within walking distance of the Capitol Square and our venue. Reach out if you’re looking for something specific, or want more recommendations!
Gotham Bagel
If you need a bagel fix, these are some of the best bagels we’ve had outside of New York. Fun fact - Simon lived across the street!
Marigold Kitchen
A phenomenal breakfast, brunch or lunch spot just off of the Square. Fun fact - Simon built their website!
Short Stack Eatery
If you’re feeling adventurous, order “The Blind Special” for their mystery special of the day.
Tornado Room
An old-school, no frills steakhouse with moody vibes and delicious food. Open late, they also serve the best late-night shrimp cocktail in town!
Eno Vino
Fancy, tapas-style food with some of the best views of the Capitol in all of Madison. (Especially the view from the women’s restroom).
Sardine
French food, good cocktails, classic decor and perfect views out onto Lake Monona. You can’t go wrong! Fun fact - Simon also built their website!
The Old Fashioned
A Wisconsin classic. Be sure to order your Old Fashioned the right way - sweet, with brandy, and fried cheese curds on the side.
Working Draft
A Madison-based brewery with an on-site taproom and a wide selection of good beers. A great way to spend an afternoon.
The Great Dane
A true Madison classic. Come here for good food, good beer, pool tables, and a good time. They have outdoor seating, too!
Activities
There’s nothing better than summer in Madison and there is always something to do! If you have extra time in Madison, consider some of the options below.
The Dane County Farmers’ Market
On Saturday mornings, vendors set up on the Capitol Square to sell everything from fruits and vegetables to flowers, fried cheese, and pastries. Grab a coffee and don’t miss our favorites - Stella’s “spicy cheese bread” and Sugar River Bakery’s “crumble bars”.
The Memorial Union Terrace
The Terrace is part of the University of Wisconsin’s student union, and the congregation point for the entire city in the summer. Open to the public, come here to enjoy sunshine on the lake, share a few pitchers of beer, and maybe even catch some live music!
Rent Paddleboards on the Lake
It’s summer in Madison and water activities are an absolute must. Rent paddle boards at Brittingham Boats on Monona Bay - very close to The Harvey House - to catch a new view of the Capitol, or at Wingra Boats on nearby Lake Wingra.