Madison’s Place Since 1948 – Historic Edgewater Tours
The Edgewater has been Madison’s place since 1948 (2023 marked our 75th anniversary) and we have a rich history we want to share with you. Join us for a historic tour of the property from Chief Historian, former owner and general manager, Scott Faulkner.
Our story began in 1948, where we quickly became a prominent part of the Madison community serving as the place to stay—and play—for visitors and community members alike. From Elvis Presley and Elton John to Bob Marley and the Dalai Lama, the guests were grand and the times were exciting. Waterfront relaxation, fine dining, rooftop big bands and business meetings all took place on the water.
The Edgewater was then reimagined and reopened in September 2014, ushering in our next chapter with 202 guest rooms and the finest in luxury hotel services and amenities. A full-service luxury spa, lakeside restaurants and an outdoor public event space complete with an ice rink in the winter were added. No matter the occasion, guests are mesmerized by our legendary and breathtaking location on the water’s edge of Lake Mendota.
Owned and operated by a team that lives in and loves their city. No effort was spared to showcase the property’s breathtaking views, offer unique amenities, and focus on re-establishing the long-standing relationship – the city and its finest hotel. The Edgewater now serves as an urban resort steps away from eclectic shops and Madison institutions that make the downtown scene so vibrant.
Tours are held on the third Friday of every month at 3pm and last approximately 45 minutes. Free and open to hotel guests and the public. Select your date and sign up below!
Attendees should meet in the Wisconsin building hotel lobby on the 6th floor. Tours end in Augie’s Tavern with a complimentary mini Old Fashioned, house wine, beer, soda or coffee.