First post from a recent convert to Hyatt. Based on several visits in March, April, and May of 2010.

Basics: Property opened in March of 2010 as a purpose built Hyatt Place. Eleven story structure located two blocks west of the Capital Square. Neighboring structures are primarily condos.

Arrival: Parking for a couple of vehicles for check I/O at the front door. There are also eight to ten one hour surface parking stalls located just east of the front entrance. These are very handy for check in and check out, and thus far, undiscovered.

Parking: Parking in the attached ramp is $10 daily with I/O privileges. The ramp is shared with a local clinic. On-street parking is available on all the surrounding streets, but is metered at $1.50 an hour from 8AM to 7PM and VERY difficult to find until about 8PM. After 8PM, it is likely that an on-street space would be available within a block or two. Streets are well lit and this area is generally be quite safe in the evening. Do be aware that meter enforcement can be very strict in downtown Madison.

Checkin: FD staff is midwest friendly and very accommodating. Was actually asked about choice of Diamond amenity though, as in most HPs it failed to post. Kiosks are located in the reception area near the entrance as well as in the corridor leading to the elevators. This kiosk position could be handy for the knowledgeable FTer if a group is checking in as it is in an unexpected and likely unused location.

Rooms: While purpose built, the rooms are similar to the Amerisuites remodels except most have very spacious glassed in showers instead of tubs. The ##0# series of rooms face West Washington Avenue and some may be bothered buy traffic noise on lower floors. There are two rooms at the rear of the building ##25 and ##26 I believe, that are corners and have excellent light from three banks of windows. Due to nearby buildings, views of the very stately Wisconsin Capital dome are likely obstructed from all rooms. Furnishings, textiles are pleasant.

Amenities: Gym and Pool are on the first floor. The Gym, is small, but equipment is new and seems to be adequate for the guest population. The pool is small, but has a glass wall letting in light, though little view, and is perfectly adequate for those who enjoy swimming laps. Lobby is good sized and split into a casual seating area and the galley eating area. There are two PCs available for guest use. There is a small patio area off the galley seating that would be pleasant on a nice day, though there is some traffic noise.

Food: Standard HP menu. Continental breakfast was well stocked and presented.

Nearby: Two block walk to the Capital Square, another two blocks to Tornado Club for steaks and a very limited, but very good late night menu (till midnight or 1:00 I believe). Gennas, and eclectic spot for a drink, and any number of other restaurants on the square or a bit further, (but still walkable) on state street. On Saturday mornings during temperate months the Capital Square hosts one of the largest farmers markets in the nation making parking quite scarce. Do note, this property is some distance from the University of Wisconsin campus.

Conclusion: A very nice limited service addition to the Capital Square area. My first stay was on their first night of operation and generally I've seen the service and knowledge of the staff improve on each visit.

Hope this is of some value.
The Cold Hand of Technology