Check In: The AC Hotel Madison

My husband and I recently headed to Madison, WI for the Grand Opening of the AC Hotel Madison. Not visiting Madison in years, I was excited to stay downtown and experience the city firsthand.

The AC Hotel brand designs with the traveler in mind. Bathrooms are spacious, every detail of the rooms are thought out, floors are wood, and you can most definitely expect a great bar and restaurant. As stated in the opening remarks, the AC Hotel was created so you “don’t have to worry about the process of traveling, but rather, enjoy exactly where you are.” Are you ready to explore?

After check-in was complete, I headed up to our room for a change and quick exploration before dinner. As I mentioned, I was very impressed by the design of the rooms — large beds, an area for luggage, and a massive bathroom with a rainfall spout — all the things I look for when I am on the road. The clean, sleek design and wood floors definitely embodied an European flair. 

Once my bags were unpacked, it was time to explore. The AC Hotel Madison offers a killer Spanish style breakfast every morning in the AC Kitchen. And can we talk about the gym? Located on the 9th floor, it shares floor to ceilings with views of the State Capital building downtown. My favorite touch? A small station with towels, water, and headphones for those of us that tend to leave them at home (another small touch).

When we arrived to dinner on the first night, I was astonished by the views. Floor to ceiling windows looking out onto the square and the State’s Capital Building. Next up, dinner and cocktails served at Eno Vino Wine Bar (located on the 10th floor). With an enormous shared plate menu (I loved the shrimp ceviche & charcuterie board), it was a perfect place to meet the other bloggers and begin our weekend.

Note: After dinner, don’t forget to head one floor down for the Sky Terrace bar (an indoor/outdoor space) to enjoy one last cocktail before bed and take one more snap of the capital building at night. Don’t get me wrong, I love my Chicago hotels, but none of them have striking views like the AC Hotel Madison. 

Friday was a day of celebrations. The morning began with a champagne toast, as well as speeches from Arne Sorenson (the CEO of Marriott International) and Nigel Barker (yes, that Nigel Barker). As a hospitality and hotel nerd, it was a dream come true to hear about the exciting future AC Hotels (and Marriott) have in store. The AC Hotel brand originally started in Spain, but now has over 90 locations around the world, with the AC Hotel Madison being the 18th in the United States.

The most exciting part — Friday night— “Curating the New Madison” event. So. Much. Fun. It was an evening filled with toasts, nibbles, live entertainment and new friends. I was even able to meet Nigel Barker and learn how to make a proper G&T (or as he would say a G&T by NB). I was given a full tour of a suite (um, dream room — seriously, it’s hugee) as well as enjoy the incredible views from the 9th and 10th floor bars.

With a night of mingling, it was off to our rooms before a full day of exploring Madison!

Thank you so much to the AC Hotel Madison (and everyone that made it possible) for having me as their guest! I’m hoping to make a trip back to Madison real soon, and I am looking forward to another stay!

Have you been to Madison?