How old do you have to be to get into the Cardinal?
Generally, you must be 21, except Wednesday’s Electric Underground, Thursday’s College Night and Spicy Saturdays welcome 18-20 year-olds for dancing. Must show valid ID.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes: Visa/MC/AmEx/Discover.
What time does the Cardinal open?
We open at 7 PM daily, except at 4 PM on Fridays.
When is closing or “bar time”?
From Sunday thru Thursday it is 2 AM; Friday and Saturday bar time is 2:30 AM, with beverage service stopped 15 minutes earlier. On New Year’s Eve bars in Wisconsin can stay open all night and we usually go until 5 am!
When was the Cardinal established and has it always been a dance club?
The Cardinal was the original tavern for the Cardinal Hotel, built in 1908 and has been a dance bar since 1974. Read about our history for more details. Currently, the Cardinal offers nights of DJ dancing as well as live music.
Is Cardinal a gay bar?
No, but it is definitely gay-friendly. The Cardinal is the original “affirmative action” bar in Madison, where people of all backgrounds, race, ethnicity and sexual orientation gather in a positive atmosphere.
Is there free parking available at Cardinal?
Yes, directly across Wilson Street (enter on South Hancock St.) is a free City parking lot for 50 cars. In addition, there’s street parking available on East Wilson, So. Franklin and So. Hancock Streets. Click here for directions.
Can I rent out Cardinal or have my birthday party there?
Yes, the Cardinal is available for special events, usually in the early evenings. Call 608-257-2473 for details and information.
If I have or see a problem with another patron, who do I go to? How is the security at the Cardinal?
We have Security personnel on the busiest nights; if you should have any problem or concern, you should immediately report it to the Bartender or the Security person.
Do you have a dress code?
We encourage our customers to dress appropriately, especially on the weekends.
What kind of music do you play?
Cardinal has always been known for the variety of music and entertainment offered. Each night has a different theme based on the music, whether live or recorded.
Is there a cover charge?
Some nights do have a cover: Thursdays and Saturdays are $5/21+ and $8/18+; Fridays vary according to the gig, with Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays normally free. On Mondays, the cover is $3 for Madison’s favorite rock jam featuring Sandrose and 4th Coast.
What is the usual age group?
The crowd at Cardinal is probably the most mixed of any nightclub in Madison, ranging in age from 21 to 40.
Do you have a food menu?
No, we do not serve food, but offer appetizers during Friday’s Live Happy Hour.
Can I make a birthday or table reservation?
Yes, we will honor a table reservation for a birthday party until 10 PM.
If there’s a picture of me on the site or Facebook that I do not want online, can I get it removed?
Yes, of course you can! Just use our contact form and your request will be taken care of.
What kind of drinks do you have?
We take pride in the quality of our cocktails, our wine selection and Wisconsin micros on tap. There are drink specials each night at reduced prices and our knowledgeable bartenders can also make your drink of choice.
Do you have a coat check?
Yes, from October 15 to April 15 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
What are the nearest hotels?
The Monona Terrace Hilton, Ruby Marie Bed & Breakfast, Concourse Hotel, Inn on the Park and Edgewater Hotel.
I’ve lost something at the Cardinal; do you have lost and found?
Yes, call 608-257-2473.
I am a DJ or a band; can you tell me who does your booking?
Call Ricardo at 608-257-2473 or write contact us via our website using the contact form.
When is your next Foam or Fetish party?
We don’t do Foam parties anymore; a Fetish theme night will be scheduled from time to time. Stay tuned!
