With more than 200 commercial and residential buildings more than a century old, Columbus, in south-central Wisconsin, offers a portrait of the late 19th century. It boasts the largest antique mall in the state and is home to several antique shops. After antiquing, hit one of Columbus' two golf courses, the nine-hole Columbus Country Club or the 18-hole Kestrel Ridge Golf Course. With Beaver Dam and Sun Prairie just 12 and 15 miles, respectively, from Columbus, you can also check out Beaver Dam Country Club, Old Hickory Golf Club and Sun Prairie Golf Course. After a full day, relax in an area hotel.
Super 8 Columbus
The 50-room Super 8 in Columbus--the only hotel in town--is truly super. According to manager Matt Warmka, the Columbus location ranks in the top 4 percent of all Super 8s in guest satisfaction. From helpfulness and knowledgeable staff to cleanliness and comfort, the Columbus Super 8 scores consistently high. The rooms have free wireless high-speed Internet, mini refrigerators and microwaves; hotel amenities include an exercise facility, laundry facilities, meeting space and a large indoor pool. Your pet can stay, too, for a fee. The Super 8 is a good neighbor, as well. The pool is open to the public, said Warmka, noting the hotel also hosts birthday parties.
Columbus Country Club and Kestrel Ridge Golf Club are both within three miles of the hotel. It's also just a mile to downtown Columbus' antique shops. After working up an appetite shopping or golfing, check out Capris Steak House or Apple Tree Family Restaurant, both in Columbus.
Super 8 Columbus
219 Industrial Drive
Columbus, WI 53925
(920) 623-8800
super8.com
AmericInn of Beaver Dam
Promoted for its luxury and value, the AmericInn of Beaver Dam offers two-room whirlpool suites and king whirlpool suites among its 63 rooms. In the two-room suite, the living room includes a full sofa sleeper; the king bedroom houses a two-person whirlpool. Some rooms include refrigerators and microwaves; others permit smoking. Free wireless Internet is available. Solid masonry construction allows for peace and quiet and a restful night of sleep. A lobby computer, copy and fax services, an exercise area, an indoor pool and a whirlpool are available for guests. Pets are allowed for an extra charge.
The hotel is just 10 minutes from Beaver Dam Country Club. If you prefer nature hikes and exploration, check out the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area just 20 minutes away. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website, Horicon is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States; almost 300 kinds of birds have been sighted there. When it's time for dinner, grab a juicy steak at Bayside Supper Club or Italian fare at Benvenuto's, both within 10 minutes of the hotel.
AmericInn of Beaver Dam
325 Seippel Blvd.
Beaver Dam, WI 53916
(800) 634-3444
americinn.com
Quality Inn & Suites
Location, location, location. The Quality Inn and Suites' Sun Prairie hotel is centrally located. To the northeast, it's a short drive to Columbus golf courses or an antique shop; to the southwest, it's an even shorter trip to Madison's eclectic scene. The state capital boasts entertainment, cultural attractions, the state house and plenty of other attractions. The 62-room hotel has free wireless high-speed Internet, an indoor pool, a hot tub and an exercise room. Pets can stay for a fee.
JB's Italian Grill and Chang Jiang's Chinese restaurant are within two miles of the hotel, which is also surrounded by fast-food chains.
Quality Inn & Suites
105 Business Park Drive
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
(608) 834-9889
qualityinn.com
About The Author
Ginger DeShaney started her journalism career as a reporter, photographer and travel editor before moving behind the scenes as a copy editor. She has worked at the "Chicago Sun-Times," "Boston Herald" and "Boston Globe." She holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
