The Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill leads with a 9.5 overall score and a 9.8 location rating steps from downtown. For unparalleled boutique luxury, The Chandler Hotel’s 9.7 score and perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi make it an exceptional pick. Both put the best of Madison within walking distance.
Forget chain-generic stops—these 11 hotels near Madison, Indiana, trade on location and character, from historic mills to family-run inns backed by decades of repeat guests.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 11 properties near Madison, Indiana, across 2600+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing properties with average scores above 8.3/10 and location ratings that put you within walking distance or a short drive of downtown Madison’s historic riverfront.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #6 Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill→ Rates
#7 The Chandler Hotel→ Rates - Best for history lovers: #6 Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill→ Rates
- Best for a riverfront view: #1 Hillside Inn→ Rates
- Best for pool & relaxation: #4 Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls→ Rates
- Best budget-friendly: #3 Bestway Inn – Madison→ Rates
#10 Super 8 by Wyndham Madison IN→ Rates - Best for a park escape: #9 General Butler State Resort Park→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Hillside Inn | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Riverboat Inn & Suites | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Bestway Inn – Madison | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Quality Inn Carrollton | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Chandler Hotel | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison by IHG | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 9. General Butler State Resort Park | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Super 8 by Wyndham Madison IN | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hampton Inn Carrollton KY | (40+ Reviews) |
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Full Breakdown: 11 Hotels Near Madison, Indiana Rated & Reviewed
1. Hillside Inn
The Vibe
A 2-star classic perched above Madison’s historic downtown, this inn has been a favorite for returning guests for over 30 years—one reviewer’s family has stayed here for three decades. The hilltop position delivers sweeping city views, and the 9.4 location score puts Clifty Falls State Park and Broadway’s antique shops within a 5-minute drive.
What You Actually Get
Each room includes a small refrigerator, free Wi-Fi (scored 8.7), and—if you book right—a balcony with a view of downtown or the woods out back. The free continental breakfast is “very good” per guest feedback. Staff score 9.4, and guests regularly cite the front desk’s restaurant recommendations as a highlight. Free parking on-site eliminates a common downtown headache. Note: pets aren’t allowed, and the property’s two suites with heart-shaped whirlpool tubs and fireplaces book out quickly.
Choose this if: You want a friendly, family-run feel with Madison’s skyline at your doorstep and a 9.4 staff rating backing every interaction.
2. Riverboat Inn & Suites
The Vibe
Family-owned and expanded over decades, this 3-star property sits directly on the river corridor, a 5-minute walk from downtown Madison’s shops and the Ohio River waterfront. The 8.7 overall score and 9.4 location rating make it a top contender for travelers who want a local, not a chain, experience.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor swimming pool is the centerpiece here, and pool-view rooms add a resort feel rare in Madison. Cleanliness scores 9.0, comfort 8.9, and value 8.8—that’s one of the best cost-to-quality ratios in this list. The private parking is free and a big plus for drivers. Just note the limited check-in window (ends at 8 PM)—plan your arrival accordingly. Pets aren’t allowed, and groups booking more than 5 rooms face different policies. Wi-Fi scores 8.0, solid but not the fastest here.
Choose this if: You value a personal check-in, a clean pool, and walkability to Madison’s riverfront over sterile brand consistency.
3. Bestway Inn – Madison
The Vibe
If you’re traveling with a dog on a tight budget, this 2-star off-highway motel is your best bet near Madison. It’s the only pet-friendly property that explicitly allows dogs for a $20/night fee (cats are not accepted). The indoor swimming pool is a bonus for families, and the continental breakfast is included.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free Wi-Fi (scored 8.1) and a continental breakfast. The staff rating of 8.4 is the property’s highest score—guests note friendly check-in. The indoor pool is a key feature for rainy days or cooler months. The tradeoff: cleanliness scores 7.7 and facilities 7.3, the lowest in this list excluding the Super 8. For a one-night pass-through, it works, but it’s not where you’d base a week-long Madison exploration. King-bed rooms are available but limited.
Choose this if: You need a pet-friendly budget stopover with an indoor pool and don’t mind lower cleanliness scores.
4. Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls
The Vibe
A 4-star-rated property that punches above its price point, the Comfort Inn is the best pick near Madison for travelers who want a consistent, clean chain experience with an indoor pool and a spa tub. Its 8.8 cleanliness score and 9.1 staff rating make it a reliable alternative to the historic properties downtown.
What You Actually Get
The indoor swimming pool and spa tub are the headline amenities—guests praise the pool as relaxing and well-maintained. The “good breakfast” included in the rate is another plus, with reviews calling it quick, easy, and offering lots of options. King suites with in-room jacuzzis are available for couples. Free on-site private parking. Note: pets are not allowed (service animals excepted), and Wi-Fi scores only 7.9, making it one of the weaker connections in this list. Cleanliness and comfort scores both sit above 8.5, so you’re getting a solid sleep.
Choose this if: You want an indoor pool, a generous breakfast, and Clifty Falls hiking within a 5-minute drive.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls →
5. Quality Inn Carrollton
The Vibe
This 4-star-rated Kentucky property sits 15 minutes south of Madison, near General Butler State Park. It’s a strong alternative for travelers heading through Carrollton or wanting a quick interstate stop. The value score (8.7) ties for the highest category rating here, and semi-truck parking is an unexpected bonus for drivers.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, though at 5.7 it’s the weakest connection in this guide—be prepared for streaming issues. The good news: staff score 8.7, and guests consistently cite cleanliness and convenience. The fitness center is a plus that few Madison-area motels offer. Pets are allowed with fees, making this a viable option alongside Bestway Inn for animal owners. The hotel is 100% non-smoking. A cash deposit is required if you pay with cash at check-in. The “good breakfast” is included. Location is right off the interstate with multiple food chains nearby.
Choose this if: You’re a trucker, a pet owner, or just want a quick interstate stop with a fitness center and solid value.
6. Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill
The Vibe
Housed in a restored 19th-century cotton mill, this 3-star hotel is the highest-rated property in Madison by a wide margin. With a 9.5 overall score, a 9.8 location rating, and 9.7 for both cleanliness and facilities, it’s the clear standout for anyone who wants historic character without sacrificing modern comfort. The building itself—exposed brick, mill-era bones—is the draw.
What You Actually Get
Every room features a microwave and mini-fridge, and guests rave about the “huge” bathrooms with walk-in showers (no jacuzzis here—just beautiful, spacious stalls). Staff score 9.6, with reviews emphasizing helpfulness. The free on-site parking is a major plus for a downtown-adjacent property. The included “good breakfast” is another perk. Guests under 18? No age restriction for check-in. Note: this hotel does not have jacuzzi tubs, so if you want a soak, the Comfort Inn (#4) is a better fit. The fitness center is compact but functional. Late checkout can be requested but is subject to availability.
Choose this if: You want the best hotel near Madison, Indiana, bar none—historic, spotless, and steps from everything.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill →
7. The Chandler Hotel
The Vibe
A boutique hotel that outranks everything on the list, The Chandler Hotel scores a 9.7 overall with a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi and near-perfect marks for facilities, cleanliness, and location. It’s situated directly on East 2nd Street in Madison’s walkable historic district, putting you steps from antique stores, cafes, and the riverfront. This is the luxury pick.
What You Actually Get
The Chandler is an adults-only property—children are not allowed, so it’s strictly for couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends 18+. The “FREE parking!” (shouted by guests in reviews) is a relief for downtown Madison, where street parking can be scarce. Each room is allergy-free (no pets allowed), and the fitness center is available for guests. The two-bed suites come with queen beds—not doubles. Staff score 9.4, and guests consistently mention thoughtful touches: premium coffee, clean design, and a non-chain feel. Check-in runs until midnight, which is generous compared to some Madison properties that close at 8 PM.
Choose this if: You’re a couple or solo traveler seeking boutique luxury downtown with flawless Wi-Fi and no kids underfoot.
8. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison by IHG
The Vibe
A reliable 2-star IHG property on the outskirts of Madison, the Holiday Inn Express delivers what the brand promises: clean rooms, a “very good” breakfast, and predictable service. It’s a 5-minute drive to downtown, making it a solid fallback if the top-rated properties are full. The 8.6 location score is decent, though it lacks historic charm.
What You Actually Get
The “very good breakfast” is the standout—guests consistently call it super good, with plenty of nearby restaurant options for dinner. Rooms include free Wi-Fi (8.1), air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Some suites have a full-size pull-out couch. No hot tub is available in any room type. The fitness center is basic. Pets are not allowed, and groups booking more than 6 rooms face different policies. Cleanliness scores 8.2, comfort 8.1—middle-of-the-pack but acceptable for the price. The check-in process is easy, per guest reviews.
Choose this if: You want IHG consistency, a hot breakfast included, and a quick drive to downtown Madison.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison by IHG →
9. General Butler State Resort Park
The Vibe
A 1-star state park lodge that feels like a budget resort—General Butler sits right in the park, with direct access to hiking, fishing, and the park’s golf course. The 8.5 overall score and 9.0 location rating make it a strong pick for nature lovers willing to drive 15 minutes into Madison. The on-site restaurant is a genuine highlight, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner at good prices.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor swimming pool is seasonal and a big hit with families. Rooms include free Wi-Fi (7.5—acceptable but not fast) and a flat-screen TV. The on-site restaurant is open for all three meals and earns praise for value and quality—guests call it a “great value” with good food. Breakfast is available for an additional €9 if not included in your rate. Pets are allowed with fees (100% pet-friendly, though some rooms are restricted for allergy reasons). No shuttles are available. The staff is helpful and friendly, scoring 8.9. Free parking on-site.
Choose this if: You want a park-centered stay with hiking, a pool, and an on-site diner—Madison is a 15-minute drive away.
Check Tonight’s Price for General Butler State Resort Park →
10. Super 8 by Wyndham Madison IN
The Vibe
If you just need the cheapest bed near Madison, this Super 8 delivers. It scores 7.0 overall—typical for a budget 1-star—with staff (8.3) and Wi-Fi (8.0) as its strongest categories. The “very good breakfast” included in the rate is a surprise at this price point. You’re 2 miles from downtown, so a car is necessary.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (8.0) is better than some pricier options here. The continental breakfast is scored as “very good” by the property, and free parking is available on-site. Pets are allowed on request with charges. Cleanliness scores 7.4 and facilities 7.1—the lowest in the guide, meaning you get what you pay for. Guests 14 and above are charged as adults. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies. It’s a basic, no-frills stay best suited for an overnight stopover.
Choose this if: Your budget is absolute bottom-line, you need pet-friendly, and you’re fine with basic accommodations for one night.
11. Hampton Inn Carrollton KY
The Vibe
A 3-star Hampton Inn just off I-71 in Carrollton, this is a solid option for travelers heading through Kentucky who want Madison access without staying in the historic district. The 8.3 overall score is respectable, and the perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi rating ties The Chandler Hotel for best connectivity in this guide.
What You Actually Get
The indoor swimming pool is the main amenity—guests appreciate it year-round. Cleanliness scores 8.8, comfort 8.9, and staff a strong 9.1—one guest even mentioned a front-desk employee drying their jeans when the dryer broke. The continental breakfast is included. Rooms are standard Hampton Inn fare: clean, comfortable, and predictable. Free private parking is available on-site. Pets are not allowed. Check-out is at noon, later than most properties in this guide. A cash deposit is required for incidentals if you pay with cash. Only one room with a roll-in shower is available, so book early if accessibility is a priority.
Choose this if: You need an indoor pool, flawless Wi-Fi, and a reliable Hampton Inn 15 minutes south of Madison.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#6 Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill
9.5 overall score, 9.8 location, and historic mill character make it unbeatable for combined charm and quality near Madison.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill →
💰 Best Value
#4 Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls
8.8 cleanliness, an indoor pool and spa tub, and a good breakfast at a mid-range price—this 4-star rated property overdelivers.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls →
💕 Most Romantic
#7 The Chandler Hotel
9.7 overall rating, adults-only policy, and downtown walkability make it the top boutique pick for couples exploring Madison.
How We Ranked These Hotels Near Madison, Indiana
I evaluated 11 properties around Madison, Indiana, cross-referencing 2600+ verified guest reviews to surface the best options for proximity, cleanliness, and value. The selection prioritizes hotels within a 15-minute drive of downtown Madison’s historic riverfront and Broadway shopping district.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 40+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores—the categories that matter most for a comfortable stay near a small historic town
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, breakfast, parking) against guest review patterns to confirm accuracy
- Location signals: Proximity to Madison’s downtown core, Clifty Falls State Park, and the Ohio River waterfront—walkability versus short-drive access
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels near Madison, Indiana are pet-friendly?
Three properties allow pets: Bestway Inn – Madison (#3) accepts dogs for a $20/night fee (cats not allowed), Quality Inn Carrollton (#5) is pet-friendly with charges, and General Butler State Resort Park (#9) is 100% pet-friendly though some rooms are restricted for allergy reasons. Super 8 by Wyndham Madison IN (#10) allows pets on request with charges. All other hotels in this guide do not permit pets.
Which Madison hotels have indoor pools?
Three properties feature indoor swimming pools: Bestway Inn – Madison (#3), Comfort Inn Madison near Clifty Falls (#4), and Hampton Inn Carrollton KY (#11). The Comfort Inn also includes a spa tub. For outdoor swimming, Riverboat Inn & Suites (#2) and General Butler State Resort Park (#9) have seasonal outdoor pools.
What’s the most walkable hotel for exploring downtown Madison?
The Chandler Hotel (#7) at 111 East 2nd Street and Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison Historic Eagle Cotton Mill (#6) at 108 St. Michaels Avenue are both within a 5-minute walk of Broadway’s shops, restaurants, and the Ohio River waterfront. Hillside Inn (#1) offers city views from its hilltop perch but requires a short drive or uphill walk into downtown. Without a car, book #6 or #7.
Do any hotels near Madison allow late check-in?
The Chandler Hotel (#7) accepts check-in until 12:00 AM (midnight). Most other properties close check-in processing by 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Riverboat Inn & Suites (#2) has the most restrictive window—check-in ends at 8:00 PM sharp—so plan to arrive early. If you expect a late arrival, call ahead to confirm late-check-in availability.
What’s the best time to visit Madison, Indiana?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather for exploring Clifty Falls State Park and Madison’s historic district. Summer is popular for river activities and the Madison Regatta hydroplane races (July), but hotels book out early. Winter can be quiet and cold, with lower rates at properties like Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn Express.
How far is Madison, Indiana from Louisville and Cincinnati airports?
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is approximately 43 miles from Madison—about a 50-minute drive. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is about 44 miles—roughly a 50-minute drive as well. Both airports serve Madison equally well. No hotels in this guide offer airport shuttles, so you’ll need a rental car or rideshare.