MADISON, Wis. — The Republican National Convention (RNC) starts Monday in Milwaukee.

What You Need To Know

  • The Republican National Convention starts Monday in Milwaukee

  • Hotels have been booked in Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Jefferson, Walworth, Racine, Kenosha and Dane Counties

  • Some RNC delegates are confirmed to be staying at hotels in Madison

  • Madison’s city council gave the green light to allow hotel bars in the city to stay open later, until 4 a.m.

The economic impact of the big event is expected to be felt beyond the host city. Hotels have been booked in Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Jefferson, Walworth, Racine, Kenosha and Dane Counties.

Wonderstate Coffee is located right on Capitol Square in downtown Madison. Manager Ben Frawley said because of the cafe’s prime location, it’s no stranger to big events.

“We really rely on the Monona Terrace to have conventions,” Frawley said. “We really rely on the Art Fair in the Square every year and the Farmer's Market. So, when there are events downtown, it is helpful to our business.”

Some RNC delegates are confirmed to be staying at hotels nearby on Capitol Square.

Madison’s city council gave the green light to allow hotel bars in the city to stay open later, until 4 a.m. Frawley said that give him and his team even more reason to make sure the coffee is ready and served strong in the morning.

“Mainly when there's these big groups coming into town, we just make sure we have enough coffee prepped and enough employees ready to work,” Frawley said. “Our main focus is just making sure we're staffed up and that we have enough bandwidth to take in this influx of crowds. During the farmers market we open up our front window and have a second line.”

While most of the action may be taking place in Milwaukee, Madison and its businesses are getting ready to impress visitors too.

Frawley said every bit of exposure and any new customer is welcomed.

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