🍽️ Rooms & Amenities

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Standard Queen Room
Cozy Victorian-inspired room with queen bed, private bath, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridge. Perfect for solo travelers or couples.
 $123.49/night
Deluxe King Suite
Spacious suite with king bed, sitting area, whirlpool tub, and views of Lake Monona or downtown. Includes complimentary breakfast and happy hour.
 $159–$189/night
Double Room
Two double beds, Victorian décor, private bath, ideal for friends or small families. Includes all standard amenities.
 $139–$159/night
Complimentary Breakfast
Continental breakfast with pastries, fruit, yogurt, coffee, and tea served daily.
 Included
Evening Happy Hour
Free wine, beer, and light snacks for guests, Monday–Saturday in the lounge.
 Included
On-site Parking
Secure, complimentary self-parking for all guests.
 Included

Room Types & Sizes: Hotel Ruby Marie offers a curated mix of Standard Queen Rooms, Deluxe King Suites, and Double Rooms, each designed with a nod to the property’s Victorian heritage. Standard Queen Rooms are cozy (approximately 250–300 sq ft), while Deluxe King Suites add generous space (350–450 sq ft), whirlpool tubs, and often premium views. The Double Rooms are practical for groups, maintaining comfort without sacrificing style.

Amenities: All rooms feature free high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, complimentary toiletries, and individually controlled AC. Suites often include spa tubs and extra seating. Guests rave about the complimentary continental breakfast and the unique evening happy hour—a local favorite for its rotating selection of Wisconsin beers and wines, plus snacks.

Guest Services: The front desk operates daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. For late arrivals, seamless check-in is available at the connected Up North Bar, a quirky local touch that guests find convenient and memorable. Luggage storage is available for early arrivals or late departures—just call ahead to coordinate with staff.

Popular Picks & Insider Recommendations: Research shows the Deluxe King Suites with lake views are most coveted—book these well in advance for festival weekends or summer stays. Light sleepers should request rooms away from the train tracks (north-facing or interior rooms) to minimize noise. The happy hour is a can’t-miss perk, and the live music in the lounge (Monday–Saturday) adds a true Madison vibe.

Wi-Fi & Practical Policies: Wi-Fi is reliable throughout the property, including common areas. Complimentary self-parking is a major bonus in downtown Madison. The hotel is pet-free and strictly non-smoking. No hidden resort fees, but a standard incidental deposit may be held at check-in. Accessibility is above average for a historic property: elevator access, wide doors, and visual alarms are provided. Early check-in is sometimes available—call ahead for best results.

✨ The Experience

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Room Comfort & Quality
Expect plush bedding, period furnishings, and the kind of character you don’t find in chain hotels. While the rooms aren’t ultra-modern, they’re meticulously maintained—guests consistently praise the cleanliness and charm. Sound insulation is generally good, but some rooms near the train tracks may get occasional noise; request a high floor or interior-facing room for maximum peace.
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Common Areas & Facilities
The historic lobby and lounge double as gathering spaces, especially during breakfast and happy hour. The on-site bar hosts local musicians most evenings, creating a lively yet inviting atmosphere. Complimentary parking and elevator access are major pluses. There’s no full-service gym or pool—this is more about cozy, communal spaces than resort-style amenities.
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Service Style & Staff Helpfulness
Staff receive high marks for genuine hospitality and local knowledge. The team is small but attentive—guests appreciate their willingness to offer restaurant tips, sightseeing ideas, and help with logistics. Limited front desk hours mean you’ll check in at the bar if arriving late, but most find this quirky and efficient rather than a hassle.
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Guest Demographics & Atmosphere
Ruby Marie attracts a diverse crowd: business travelers, couples on getaways, and culture seekers who value character and location. The nightly happy hour and live music foster a sociable, laid-back vibe. Families are welcome, though the atmosphere leans more toward adults and mature travelers than young kids or large groups.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the process for late check-in at Hotel Ruby Marie?
If you arrive after 7:00 PM, simply head to the adjacent Up North Bar, where staff will handle your check-in and provide keys. This process is streamlined and well-reviewed by guests—just let them know if you expect to arrive very late.
Is there reliable Wi-Fi throughout the hotel?
Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi covers all guest rooms and common areas. Guests report strong, consistent connections whether working in-room or streaming in the lounge.
Are pets or children allowed at Hotel Ruby Marie?
The hotel is pet-free, and while families with children are welcome, the vibe is best suited to adults, couples, and solo travelers. Cribs and rollaways are not standard—call ahead for special accommodations.

📖 About Hotel Ruby Marie

Hotel Ruby Marie is a Madison landmark, first opening its doors in the late 1800s as a railroad hotel and now lovingly restored into a boutique property. Its architecture and décor pay homage to the Victorian era, while thoughtful updates ensure modern comfort. Over the decades, Ruby Marie has played host to travelers, artists, and locals—its on-site lounge remains a hub for live music and authentic Wisconsin hospitality. The hotel’s location, steps from Lake Monona and a short stroll to the State Capitol, puts guests at the heart of Madison’s best dining, culture, and events. Today, Ruby Marie is celebrated for blending historic soul with contemporary amenities, making it a true “only in Madison” experience for visitors and a cherished fixture in the local community.