Madonna Inn image

Madonna Inn

Restaurant Cafe Hotel Tourist attraction Spa Gift shop Inn Steak house Boutique

One of the Most Revieweds in San Luis Obispo


Address

100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Website

www.madonnainn.com

Contact

(805) 543-3000

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (7.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: room (50) staff (17) pool (17) stay (16) rooms (15) time (14) great (14) experience (11) cake (11) Madonna (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 Katelyn M. 1 year ago on Google
    I would not recommend booking the Fabulous Fifties room 118. There is considerable water damage, moldy/wet carpet and the shower faucet drips consistently. Upon notifying the staff of the water damage, annoying dripping faucet and wet carpet, they confirmed they were already aware of the issue with the room; so that was disappointing to hear that they already knew of the issues but continued to allow bookings for a damaged room and charged full price but discounted the $35 resort fee on a $200-300 room. The staff was nice but clearly the property is not being kept up and managed to the best of their ability for what you would expect they are charging. Luckily we only booked the one night stay as the room was unacceptable. The breakfast and service were excellent but the sweater I purchased from the gift shop is already coming apart at the seams and I only wore it once. I tried it on in the gift shop and it left white debris all over my shirt so I felt obligated to purchase the sweater to hide my now dirty black shirt. I’d consider going back for the food at the copper cafe but probably won’t book another room stay as I was disappointed at the underwhelming quality of the room and buyer beware of the poor quality of gift shop apparel. Great food and staff was nice but not worth the room rates overall. To respond to the owner’s reply below. Please locate my contact info within your guest registry for Room 118 for April 2022. I do not feel comfortable posting it publicly on this platform and you did not supply me with an email to contact you directly. Thank you.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jorge9156 2 months ago on Google • 83 reviews New
    The rooms are so unique that there are no adjectives to describe them well enough. We stayed in the Swiss Belle. How creative the original owners were in designing. The shower was a surprise waterfall The pool area is secluded and very inviting for a swim or a relaxing dip in hot spa. The whole facility is like a museum tour. Great restaurant and the cakes are spectacular The stay might be a little pricey but all so worthwhile We will be back with family and friends

  • 5/5 Anthony P. 2 years ago on Google
    First time at the Madonna Inn and what a fantastic experience it was. Been on my list for a while, my girlfriend had wanted to visit and we finally got a chance to do so. First this place is super unique, just touring the grounds was so much fun. There is so much to do you can easily spend the day here relaxing and enjoying the peace. The staff, incredible and super helpful. They really are great at playing host and you can really tell they put effort in. The restaurants and food on site are also great. Overall a great experience and looking forward to another visit.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Parii N. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is great if you want to pay a $30 a day resort fee and get a Disneyland vibe where 25 kids rule the spa pool and hot tub while idiotic parents and grandparents just sit around all bundled up in puffy jackets and blankets. My wife and i are still so angry that we paid so damn much for this place and couldn't enjoy this amenity. Additionally, the room doors are constantly being hammered shut and people are so giddy they talk obnoxiously loud in the corridors. That being said, watch out if you're looking for romantic adult get away. This ain't that place for enormous expense. We'll never go back despite the fantastic rock room, attentive and cheerful staff, and really good but way overpriced food at steakhouse and cafe.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alina S. 1 month ago on Google • 72 reviews New
    I've never had a bite of pink champagne cake until just the other night!!.... The company I was with was so crude.... but pink champagne cake was such a delight!! This place is magical!! .... enchanting!!... with a soft, warm welcoming glow! You'll be sorry if you don't stop and You'll never wanna leave if you stay!! And please!! For God's sake, have some cake!!!

  • 5/5 Lala G. 1 year ago on Google
    I go just for the cakes and baked goods. The cakes are so worth the 2 hour drive. I have never had a complaint. The staff is always so friendly and welcoming. And did I mention the cakes 🎂 😊 so delicious. My favorites are the famous Pink Champagne cake and the Raspberry Delight, but they are all so good
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Olivia M. 2 years ago on Google
    I had such an amazing time here. The room and bathroom were gorgeous and the bidet was life changing. We originally planned to stay for only one night be we had to get another because of how great it is. The only problem we had was the toilet made loud noises when you flush and the bathroom door squeaked. But other than that it was perfect! Everyone we spoke to was also very nice and helpful! We will definitely come back to try more rooms and the pool!!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dylan R. 1 year ago on Google
    I could compliment the pies and cakes, which were great (we tried pecan, coconut creme, and carrot cake). But I am skipping straight to the waterfall urinal in the men's room. It was amazing. If I hit the lotto, I'm definitely having one made. Five stars. I'd attach a photo, but I couldn't take one without potentially making the guy next to me somewhat upset.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Charlee B. 1 month ago on Google • 52 reviews New
    The rooms are unique. I feel like they are a bit overpriced. My husband had a massage and said it was the best one he’s ever had. Inviting spa atmosphere. LOVE the cake!! It’s the best. We stop by when we’re driving through!

  • 4/5 K F. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a great place to visit just to marvel at the decor. I only stopped in to walk through and have a drink at the bar, I did not visit the restaurant or stay in one of the rooms. There is no cost to get in the door and wander around, but the cost of whatever you buy in the gift shop or at the bar will make up for it. Still it is fantastic to walk through and admire the woodwork, photos, and everything else that makes this place truly unique. Hope you like pink!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John R. 8 months ago on Google
    The best place to eat in California! The food is out of this world! The service is second to none! The atmosphere is beyond imagination! You are taken back to the time that nothing was to good for the Guest and elegance was the name of the game! The Guest rooms and amenities are unique in every way, no two rooms are alike! Truly a full emergence in a time forgotten in our day!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jason De C. 9 months ago on Google
    Amazing place. We had stopped by a few times while passing through SLO but this time we were finally able to spend the night. The room did not disappoint! We stayed in the Caren room (each room has a different theme). It was an explosion of pink, which is my wife's favorite color. Besides being a beautiful room, we were essentially at the top of a tower with no neighbors and a beautiful view of the horse ranch from one balcony and the freeway on the other balcony. Opening up both sliding doors allowed an amazing breeze to pass through the room. Would definitely stay there again. 10/10!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marisa S. 5 months ago on Google
    Staying at the Madonna Inn was an absolute dream come true. The room was incredible - so cute & whimsical & comfortable! Everything was clean and bright. Check-in was a breeze, and the staff was very helpful with providing directions around the property. The hotel is so fabulous and there is so much to do! Hang around the pool and enjoy the scenic view, or take in a treatment at the spa (I highly recommend the massages!) Have dinner at the beautiful steak house and enjoy the delicious fresh bakery cake for breakfast in the morning. You also MUST check out the upstairs shops for some amazing Madonna Inn merch. Honestly, this entire place is a MUST SEE and STAY. We can't wait to go back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ryan P. 10 months ago on Google
    Honestly, I thought the hotel decor would be too much, and out there, but I was wrong, it’s absolutely beautiful! Loved the room themes, the dining room decor, the pool and spa area and the Garden! The Cake was also delicious! The room was spacious and quiet, with occasional highway noise, overall, I really enjoyed the stay and will definitely be back again!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 kate2666 9 months ago on Google
    Had a terrible experience with the front desk staff. We arrived at the hotel around 3pm and went to check in. We didn’t realize their check-in is at 4 so had to wait an hour for the room to be cleaned. We were told that once the room was done, we would get a call and they would bring the room key up to where the pool area is. 4 o’clock came and no one called so we drove back down to the office to ask for the key. We got the key, drove to the room and upon walking in realized there were still maids inside and the room wasn’t done. Once again, drove back down to the office to let them know the room isn’t ready and that if that’s the case we’d need a different room as we needed to use the shower and get ready asap for an event that started at 5. We were assisted by Katya and she was extremely rude and condescending. Lectured us about “just because you arrived early doesn’t mean your room is gonna be ready” even though at this point it was after 4pm, their “guaranteed check-in” time. There was no “sorry about that” or “let me see what we can do” just bad attitude and absolutely zero customer service. We felt patronized and disrespected. This isn’t the type of service your guests should be greeted with Madonna Inn, do better.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zack G. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is legendary!! The over the top decorations, the beautiful grounds and architecture, the amazing food and service makes this a must visit place for anyone and everyone. If you're traveling 101 through the San Luis Obispo area do yourself a favor and drop in-- even just to use the bathroom (the basement men's room with the waterfall is the best). Treat yourself to a piece of one of their delicious cakes or other baked goods. If you want the full experience, stay in any of the 120+ individually decorated/themed rooms. Grab some tasty cocktails at the bar, and go to the steakhouse for a meal that doesn't skimp on the portions or flavors. Then spend the evening in the hot tubs or heated pool at the top of the hill. Truly one of my favorite places
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephanie W. 9 months ago on Google
    We have ALWAYS wanted to see this amazing place, always, and we finally were near there and off we went. The second we got in the door our mouths were wide open in delight. WOW. Absolutely WOW. It was as if we had walked into the middle of the last century, and could actually visualize the big bands and dancing on their massive dance floor and dining room, which was over the top in pink flowers and decor. Wonderful comfy leather booths everywhere. Fantastic. Everywhere we turned were massive fire places things to see. The dining room was more then welcoming, and the bakery offered must see mile high cakes and cinnamon rolls. We were just visiting, but we already plan on going back and eating and staying there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Noah R. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice food in a maximalist aesthetic. Recommend the men's bathroom with a waterfall. The fish and chips were super tasty, but I would have expected more fish // less fries. Or I would have paid more for a better ratio.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cindi L. 1 year ago on Google
    I love it and I will stay there again if I am ever back in the area. Such a fun place to stay, great restaurants, great bar, and the pool looked fantastic. (We only stopped at the pool at night when it as a bit too cold to swim) Pros: Fun decor, comfy bed, bidet toilet, robes, super convenient location, best corned beef hash anywhere, and all of the staff we interacted with were wonderful. Cons: We were in the Buffalo Room and it smelled like something died in the air conditioner. It was not normal old building smell. I stopped and bought air freshener to help with the smell. This place has no elevators. There was a narrow staircase leading to our room that could have been tough for someone that has trouble with stairs. The property is really spread out, on a hill, and lots of uneven ground. So if you aren’t very mobile be very careful in picking your room.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Brandice B. 5 months ago on Google
    The room was fun. But very old and dirty. The floors creaked nonstop and we had to get new keys twice for a one night stay. The hot tub was disgusting and looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in weeks. The restaurant was delicious for dinner and the stores were fun to look at. It’s worth it for the experience of something unique but would not stay more than an one night.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kim W. 7 months ago on Google
    So much fun! I loved our room, and the grounds were really pretty. The staff was super nice, too. They gave us a free slice of cake and champagne when they found out this trip was for our anniversary. My only suggestion would be some anti-slip mats in the cave room bathrooms.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Victoria M. 1 year ago on Google
    Traveller's Room was a hit. This place is surreal. Plush carpets, plenty of space to spread out and lovely tub. Once you're on the property there is a vibe unlike anywhere else. The pool is a walk in pool on the terrace, right at a waterfall. There is a bar at the pool and it is open until 11PM. We had a great time walking the grounds, just bring an umbrella if somehow rain is in the forecast so you aren't drenched on your walk to the Steakhouse.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 William V. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    We have been coming to the Madonna Inn for over 25 years. It's beautiful and the restaurant and bakery are awesome. The Madonna Inn is charming and very classy. It is nestled up against the hillside and has a very unique tutor style. All the rooms have a different theme, so you can pick the type of room you're in the mood for. We've tried many different rooms and they were all great. We especially like a room that has a rock fireplace, little dining table and a balcony . One morning we enjoyed coffee and bagels on our balcony. The pool is a smooth edge pool that is on a hill and has a beautiful view overlooking San Luis Obispo. You can also have lunch by the pool or under a gazebo and you can also enjoy having a drink sitting in one the the heated hot tubs. There's so much more I could say, but just trust me, come and experience The Madonna Inn for yourself. You won't be sorry and know you'll want to come back.

  • 5/5 yimboda 1 month ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    I mainly wanted to write to commend John (sp?) on his exemplary customer service and friendliness. After ending up ill the day of my reservation, I called to see what options I had since it was past the 24 hour deposit refund period. John allowed me to reschedule my reservation with the deposit already placed and even when as far as describing the rooms to me when trying to find another since my original selection was not available. The room ended up being less cost, so he recommended charging dinner to the room to utilize the remainder of my deposit. I feel most people wouldn't go to the lengths John did. I never once felt rushed while on the phone with him. I enjoying visiting the Madonna Inn because the standards they continuously uphold, and after getting off the phone with John, my feeling of this was even stronger. I will keep returning for this reason. Thank you, John! I hope to run in to you on one of my trips there so I may still thank you in person!

  • 5/5 Ivette Angel H. 6 months ago on Google
    Always such a magical experience! Beautiful and super playful motel. I would say this place is the perfect getaway for couples, very romantic. The pool is to die for, and the restaurants made it feel like a resort. The shops are super fun and quirky, we leave with a goblet every single time. We look forward to staying at every single room in the future!

  • 5/5 Sandy C. 4 months ago on Google
    To celebrate my 70th birthday I was finally able to spend a few days at Madonna Inn. It did not disappoint. (Except we had a room on the third floor and warning…there are no elevators!). The room was the “tall and short “ and it was absolutely all pink! Lovely veranda with a great view. Spacious and comfortable. The breakfast we enjoyed at the Copper Cafe was amazing. (We had reservations). Dinner in the dining room was the best food I’ve ever eaten. I didn’t know filets could be that delicious. To full for cake so we took 3 pieces of 3 kinds to go for the rest of our trip. The pieces are large enough to share!! The pool area is beautiful, as are the jacuzzi’s. All staff we encountered were cheerful and helpful. I love this place and hope to go back sometime!

  • 4/5 Kristin H. 5 months ago on Google
    A destination on its own. Do not miss dinner in the steakhouse. Every employee we interacted with was charming and felt like they genuinely were happy to help. Take your time choosing a room. I've previously stayed in rooms with rock waterfall showers, very fun. But they are chilly and dark. Might be a good choice in the heat months. This time we chose Starlight and were happy. It's top floor with soaring ceilings and a private balcony. The boutique shopping is SO good. Very nice stuff in there.

  • 3/5 emily h. 9 months ago on Google
    Mediocre service and food. Had a salad with so many stems it was practically inedible. When the staff decide to finally come over to our table, they were kind enough to take the salad off the tab. Still had a fun time exploring the rest of the property and gift shop! Definitely worth a visit, just get a slice a cake instead of a meal.

  • 4/5 Charlie C. 1 year ago on Google
    The rooms and the grounds are amazing! Absolutely over the top Camp, you won’t be disappointed. We also had drinks and ate at the steak house, which were really great as well. My only complaint is that it’s not as pedestrian friendly as it should be - to walk from the restaurants/bar up to the rooms was an experience in itself (huge hill and competing with cars). A nice pedestrian only walk way would be really amazing and make this place even better

  • 5/5 Lily K. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is heaven! I stayed here with friends last weekend for my birthday and it was a perfect experience. At one point, I called the front desk just to ask where to buy a bottle of water & before I knew it an employee was outside my door giving me a ton of them free of charge. The steakhouse is also a joy. The food isn’t a standout (honestly just go straight for the pink champagne cake imo) but the experience definitely is. The decor is so fun & on weekends there’s a live band band! The band seemed to draw in lots of super fun older couples who were more than happy to share the dance floor! Another big perk of this place was the lack of creeps- as young women my friends and I knew we had to be on the lookout but ended up feeling totally safe the whole time! The Inn really knows how to celebrate and make you feel special. I’ll definitely be back!

  • 5/5 J.L G. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a historical gem that offers plenty to do. Restaurant offers a variety of fresh food options, and excellent customer service. Even though it often gets busy, customer service delivers. Grounds are well kept, they offer various theme rooms and amenities. Check out the bar and the gift store down below. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Carolyn A. 1 year ago on Google
    I personally enjoyed our stay here. It was so lovely in and outside. The food was good. Breakfast was the best! Our dinner was so, so for the price we paid. I will be returning again.

  • 5/5 Cosette B. 1 year ago on Google
    Very beautiful rooms. Gorgeous bathrooms at entrance. Went horseback riding while staying for 75$ for a fun long trail ride. Loved our guides and horses were so sweet. Got dinner at the hotel and it was amazing. Highly suggest the pies for afterwards 🙂

  • 3/5 Richard R. 8 months ago on Google
    The good - Madonna Inn is decorated over the top gaudy. One really needs to experience such in person. Probably not to everyone's taste but fun for a change of pace. Old Mill Room - working water wheel, spacious for a non-suite room, generally appeared clean, newer (vinyl) windows, newer heater/AC unit, heated toilet seat bidet, plenty of towels, good hot water availability. Hotel property gardens well maintained. The cleaning and restaurant staff - pleasant and helpful. The OK - Old Mill Room --> The power outlets - Except for the bathroom, all the accessible outlets in the room are very worn, plugs, chargers fall out. Musty smell in the room Shower - three secured to wall bulk bottles "shampoo", "conditioner", and "body soap". I suspect that all three bottles have exactly the same contents...whether or not this was intended or just a lazy refill ..unknown. The mattress - wow...felt very worn out..saggy, and mediocre comfort. The not good--> The desk staff encountered during my visit - Indifferent and aloof staff person attitude at check-in. Unwilling or unable to address basic check in questions. Just one data point, but not a good first impression. Unfortunately ...Checkout no different - desk person failed to inquire if stay was OK, etc... I provided the staff person time and opportunity to ask, but nothing. Summary - fun to try out once. Hope management addresses first and last impressions desk staff leaves.

  • 5/5 Chris & April H. 2 months ago on Google • 2 reviews New
    We've eaten here many times and just stayed a night to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We had a great time. All the employees are so nice and the food is always on point. We stayed in the Buffalo Room and it was really fun. That's the 3rd room I've stayed in there and all are unique and different. Highly recommend if you are in the area and need a place to stay or for a local staycation!!


Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Firestone Grill image
1
Firestone Grill
Restaurant
Meat-centric American grill serving steak sandwiches, burgers & ribs in a sports-bar setting.
$$ $$
4.60 (4K reviews)
Woodstock's Pizza SLO image
2
Woodstock's Pizza SLO
Pizza restaurant
Lively, longstanding pizza place offering classic combos & white, wheat & gluten-free crust.
$$ $$
4.50 (2K reviews)
Giuseppe's Cucina Rustica image
3
Giuseppe's Cucina Rustica
Italian restaurant
Quaint Italian restaurant serving familiar fare, including pizza from a wood-burning oven.
$$ $$
4.60 (1.7K reviews)
Petra Mediterranean Pizza and Grill image
4
Petra Mediterranean Pizza and Grill
Mediterranean restaurant
Mediterranean pizza toppings & pita bread sandwiches are offered at this sizable counter-serve spot.
$$ $$
4.60 (1.7K reviews)
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant image
5
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Italian restaurant
Lively, family-friendly chain featuring Italian standards such as pastas & salads.
$$ $$
4.40 (1.7K reviews)
Last updated:
()