About & History
Madison's Premier Historic Boutique Hotel Since 1857
A Mansion Steeped in History
Perched atop what was once known as "Big Bug Hill" in the heart of Madison's historic Mansion Hill neighborhood, the Mansion Hill Inn stands as one of Wisconsin's finest examples of 19th-century architecture. Built in 1857 in the German Romanesque Revival style, this magnificent 9,000-square-foot mansion was constructed for Alexander A. McDonnell, one of Madison's earliest and most prominent citizens.
The mansion's design reflects the grandeur of its era, featuring ornate carved stonework, soaring ceilings, and a breathtaking four-story spiral staircase hand-crafted in rich mahogany — a centerpiece that remains one of the most striking architectural features in all of Madison. Over the decades, the property passed through several notable hands and served in various capacities, each era adding to the layered story of this remarkable building.
Reinvented as a Boutique Hotel
In 1983, The Alexander Company undertook a meticulous restoration of the property, transforming the historic mansion into an intimate boutique bed and breakfast. The renovation honored the original craftsmanship — Italian marble fireplaces, ornate plasterwork, and period millwork were carefully preserved — while introducing the comforts expected by today's discerning travelers.
The inn quickly earned a reputation as Madison's most romantic and historically significant lodging, drawing guests from across the country for milestone celebrations, quiet getaways, and the simple pleasure of waking up inside a living piece of Wisconsin history.
The Trek Era
In 2008, Mansion Hill Inn was acquired by Trek Bicycle, the global bicycle company headquartered in nearby Waterloo, Wisconsin. Under Trek's stewardship, the inn has been thoughtfully maintained and upgraded, ensuring that every guest experience reflects the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship that defines both the historic building and the Trek brand.
Today, Mansion Hill Inn operates as a premier boutique hotel offering eleven uniquely appointed guest rooms, each one a blend of historic character and refined modern luxury. Whether you're visiting Madison for business, leisure, or a special occasion, the inn provides an experience unlike any standard hotel — intimate, personal, and deeply rooted in place.
Madison's Mansion Hill Neighborhood
The inn sits at 424 North Pinckney Street, just steps from the Wisconsin State Capitol and within easy walking distance of State Street's shops and restaurants, the Overture Center for the Arts, and the shores of Lake Mendota. Madison's vibrant dining scene, farmers' markets, and cultural institutions are all moments away — making Mansion Hill Inn the ideal home base for exploring everything Wisconsin's capital city has to offer.
