🍽️ Rooms & Amenities

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Lake View Suite
Spacious suite with private balcony overlooking Lake Mendota, queen bed, en-suite bathroom, and sitting area.
 $202/night (inc. tax & fees)
Garden Room
Cozy room with direct access to the gardens, queen bed, private bath, and vintage decor.
 $175/night (pre-tax)
Standard Double
Classic double room, queen bed, partial lake or city view, shared or private bath (varies by room).
 $175/night (pre-tax)
Continental Breakfast
Self-serve continental breakfast with pastries, fruit, yogurt, coffee, and tea, served 7:00–10:00 AM daily.
 Included
Onsite Parking
Limited off-street parking, first-come, first-served; street parking available nearby as an alternative.
 Included

Room Types & Sizes: Mendota Lake House B&B offers a curated selection of seven guest rooms, each with distinct character. The Lake View Suite is the showstopper—ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking extra space and a private balcony with panoramic lake views. Garden Rooms are slightly smaller but offer direct access to the lush backyard and gardens, perfect for those who value outdoor relaxation. Standard Doubles provide a solid option for value-conscious guests, with either private or shared baths (always check when booking).

Amenities: Every room features Wi-Fi, air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and locally sourced bath products. The continental breakfast is a standout perk, featuring high-quality pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, and robust coffee—served in the sun-drenched breakfast room overlooking the gardens. Guests consistently praise the peaceful common areas, including a cozy lounge and lakeside terrace, as well as the mature gardens that offer a tranquil place to unwind.

Guest Services: The B&B operates without a traditional front desk; guests receive personalized check-in instructions and access the property via private entrance. Early luggage drop-off is possible by arrangement, but staff presence is limited outside of breakfast hours. This self-service approach appeals to independent travelers, but those needing 24/7 support should plan accordingly.

What Guests Love: Visitor feedback highlights the quiet, home-like atmosphere, the architectural details from 1911, and the unbeatable location—walking distance to the Capitol, UW-Madison, and State Street. The Lake View Suite and garden-facing rooms are most popular; book these early for peak season (summer and university events). Travelers recommend requesting a room on the lower floor if you have mobility concerns, as there is no elevator and all upper rooms require stairs.

Practical Details: Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property, though speeds can be moderate during busy periods. There is no elevator—upper floors are accessible by stairs only. Limited parking means arriving early increases your chances of snagging a spot; street parking is generally available but may require moving your car during city street cleaning. Children under 13 are not permitted, and pets are not allowed. No hidden resort fees—just standard taxes and cleaning included in quoted rates. For late arrivals, the self-check-in system is seamless; instructions are sent by email and text prior to your stay.

✨ The Experience

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Room Comfort & Quality
Rooms are thoughtfully decorated with period furnishings and original woodwork—think cozy quilts, vintage fixtures, and loads of natural light. The Lake View Suite is the crown jewel for its space, balcony, and stunning sunrise views. Soundproofing is solid for a historic property, but expect some characterful creaks. Research shows guests appreciate the balance of historic charm and modern essentials (Wi-Fi, AC, plush bedding).
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Common Areas & Facilities
The lakeside terrace and garden are local favorites—perfect for morning coffee or unwinding with a book. The breakfast room is bright and inviting, with large windows and original tilework. There’s no gym or business center, but the ambiance is more about relaxation than amenities. The self-serve breakfast is consistently praised for quality and variety.
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Service Style & Staff Helpfulness
With no front desk and limited on-site staff, the service is hands-off but attentive. Guests receive detailed instructions for self-check-in and feel well-supported via text and email. When present, the owners are known for their warmth and local knowledge. This low-key, independent approach works well for travelers comfortable with self-service.
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Guest Demographics & Atmosphere
Expect a peaceful, adult-oriented environment—children under 13 are not permitted. The vibe is relaxed and friendly; most guests are couples, solo travelers, or university visitors seeking a quiet home base. The arts-and-crafts architecture and garden setting create a retreat-like feel, especially in the warmer months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available at Mendota Lake House B&B?
Yes, there’s limited onsite parking (first-come, first-served). If the lot is full, street parking is generally available nearby—just be mindful of city regulations and overnight restrictions. During major events or renovations, plan for extra time to find parking.
Can I check in late or drop off luggage early?
Absolutely. The B&B uses a self-check-in system—guests receive detailed instructions and a unique code via email or text prior to arrival. Early luggage drop-off may be arranged by contacting the owners in advance, but staff presence is limited outside of breakfast hours.
Are children or pets allowed?
No, Mendota Lake House B&B is an adults-oriented property—children 12 and under are not permitted, and pets are not allowed. This policy helps maintain a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere for all guests.

📖 About Mendota Lake House B&B

Mendota Lake House B&B occupies a storied 1911 Arts & Crafts residence overlooking Lake Mendota, just north of downtown Madison. Lovingly restored, it has earned a reputation as one of the city’s most distinctive small lodgings—combining original woodwork, vintage tile, and period furnishings with modern comforts. The property’s gardens and lake-facing terrace provide a rare sense of tranquility, while its location puts guests within easy reach of the Capitol, State Street, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Locally owned and operated, the B&B has long attracted travelers seeking a blend of historic ambiance, genuine hospitality, and a uniquely Madison experience. Its ongoing renovations (scheduled for 2024–2025) demonstrate a commitment to preserving its legacy for years to come.