Milwaukee doesn’t always get as much love as the US’s most-visited cities. But that doesn’t mean it should be underestimated. With its pedestrian-friendly RiverWalk, iconic breweries, and unique historic sites, it’s virtually impossible not to be charmed by this one-of-a-kind city!
As the largest city in Wisconsin, there’s always something fun to do in Milwaukee. Nestled right on the banks of beautiful Lake Michigan, no trip to the city is complete without spending some time exploring the Historic Third Ward neighborhood.
Stroll around the area and you’ll stumble across renovated warehouses that have been transformed into vibrant galleries, innovative eateries, and boutique shops. You’ll also be able to walk to key attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World, and the spectacular Lakeshore State Park.
If that’s not enough, you can spend your days eating and shopping your way through the famous Milwaukee Public Market, visiting the Harley-Davidson Museum, or catching a show at the Pabst Theater.
If you want to get into the spirit of this beer-centric city, you’ll definitely want to take a tour of the Historic Pabst Brewery, sample beer-flavored ice cream at Purple Door Ice Cream, and sip craft brews at local favorite Lakefront Brewery.
Another cool thing about Milwaukee is that it boasts all sorts of luxurious historic hotels, art-filled boutique hotels, and industrial-chic warehouse hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Milwaukee to help you plan your perfect getaway!
Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Luxury Hotels In Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Where to Stay in Milwaukee
It’s no surprise that some of the best hotels in Milwaukee are clustered around the downtown area. If this is your first time in the city or you’re in town on business, this is the best place to base yourself. Not only will you be near most of Milwaukee’s top attractions – including the Wisconsin Center – but you’ll be steps away from the shores of Lake Michigan.
History buffs will definitely want to book one of the charming and luxurious hotels in the trendy Historic Third Ward. Wonder around the neighborhood and you’ll find all sorts of historic buildings and sites. Plus, you’ll be a stone’s throw from Discovery World, the Milwaukee Public Market, and Lakeshore State Park.
If you’re looking for nightlife, East Town is arguably the hippest part of town and is home to a range of bars, breweries, and clubs. Another cool part of town is the up-and-coming Brewer’s Hill neighborhood. This is the place to be if you want to tap into the city’s beer culture and history!
The 12 Best Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
1. Kinn Guesthouse Bay View
Tucked away in the trendy Bay View neighborhood, Kinn Guesthouse is hands down the coolest boutique hotel in Milwaukee. The three-story Queen Anne-style building dates back to 1887 and was once the meeting place for the city’s local Freemason chapter. So expect the perfect blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and stylish touches.
You can choose from eight individually decorated industrial-chic rooms. You’ll love the polished hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and towering windows and ceilings. The Omaha mattresses, eclectic artwork, and subway-tiled bathrooms with Ursa handmade soaps are nice added touches.
In an effort to create a home-away-from-home vibe, you’ll also find a communal lounge with a cozy fireplace, a library, and a fully outfitted kitchen. Kinn is also home to the Southern-style Italian restaurant, Sorella. Not only do they serve up excellent wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta, but they have an impressive selection of wine and expertly mixed cocktails.
If you want to explore the town, you’ll be surrounded by all sorts of cool boutique shops, eateries, and brewpubs. Lake Michigan is just a few blocks from this gem of a hotel and downtown is a quick 5-minute drive away.
2. The Pfister Hotel
The Pfister Hotel is the perfect pick if you want to live in the lap of luxury during your trip to Milwaukee. Located right in the heart of downtown, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World, and Lakeshore State Park are all just steps away.
With so many amazing amenities, you won’t have to leave the hotel if you don’t want to. You can get massages in the spa, go for a swim in the indoor pool, peruse the hotel’s seriously impressive Victorian art collection, or work up a sweat in the fully outfitted gym.
When it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Enjoy leisurely breakfasts at the Café At The Pfister, go brunching at The Rouge, enjoy steak and seafood dinners at Mason Street Grill, and grab nightcaps at the elegant Lobby Lounge. Be sure to head up to the 23rd floor, where you can sip cocktails and take in the sweeping city views at the martini bar, Blu.
After a long day on the town, you’ll love relaxing in the refined rooms. All rooms boast a mix of old-world-style furnishings, modern decor, and luxurious trimmings. For epic views of Lake Michigan, it’s well worth booking one of the Lake View Tower Rooms.
3. Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
Saint Kate is located steps away from the pedestrian-friendly RiverWalk in the artsy East Town neighborhood. Step inside the art-filled lobby, and the friendly staff will greet you with a complimentary glass of champagne!
It’s impossible not to be charmed by the picture-perfect rooms. You’ll love the stylish mid-century modern furniture, 49-inch smart TVs with Netflix and Hulu, and carefully curated artwork. The ukuleles, record players, and art supplies are fun extra features!
Explore the hotel and you’ll find a rotating art exhibit in the lounge, a state-of-the-art gym, and complimentary tea and coffee in the lobby. You’ll have easy access to some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, but if you feel like staying close, the hotel has plenty on offer.
You can snack on Neapolitan-style pizza at Proof Pizza, socialize over coffee or craft beer at The Bar, dine on artisanal American cuisine at Aria, or sip a glass of bubbly or two at the on-site champagne bar, Giggly. If you’re feeling really lazy, wrap yourself in the plush bathrobe, get cozy in front of the TV, and order room service!
4. Aloft Hotel Milwaukee Downtown
Perched on the bustling RiverWalk, Aloft is one of the best boutique hotels in Milwaukee if you want to be right in the heart of town. Fiserv Forum, Wisconsin Center, and the Milwaukee Art Museum are all just blocks away.
All rooms boast 9-foot-high ceilings, plush platform beds, and rainfall showers with luxe BLISS Spa amenities. The coffeemaker and mini-fridge are handy added amenities. While all rooms are stylish and comfortable, try your best to get one of the lake-facing rooms for the incredible views!
If you feel like mingling with your fellow guests, head down to the popular W XYZ Bar, where you can sip craft beer and cocktails and play a game of pool. Just off of the lobby bar, you’ll also find a cool outdoor patio with tables.
The hotel boasts a 24-hour fully-outfitted gym and an indoor pool if you feel like getting some exercise. There’s also a 24-hour snack shop in the lobby in case you want to pick up some light bites and a drink after your workout.
5. The Iron Horse Hotel
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to stay at the Iron Horse Hotel. Located across the street from the Harley-Davidson Museum, this motorcycle-themed hotel goes out of its way to cater to bikers – though you don’t have to be one to stay here!
Expect all sorts of unique amenities – from covered motorcycle parking to in-room storage areas for your biking gear. You’ll love all of the hotel’s funky motorcycle art and custom furnishings, including chandeliers made from motorcycle gears! Plus, this hotel is housed in a renovated 100-year-old warehouse, so you’ll find all sorts of turn-of-the-century antiques from around Milwaukee around the hotel.
To be expected, the industrial-chic rooms are the epitome of style and boast 12-foot wood ceilings, exposed brick walls, and custom furnishings. You’ll love the carefully curated minibar, plush bathrobes, and in-room coffeemaker.
Whether you want to attend the hotel’s famous Thursday Bike Nights or enjoy an alfresco brunch, The Yard is the perfect place to mingle with friends. If you feel like keeping it mellow, you can grab cocktails and snack on pub grub in the vintage-chic hotel bar.
6. Kimpton Journeyman Hotel
Nestled in the heart of the Historic Third Ward district, Kimpton Journeyman Hotel is surrounded by more than 20 galleries and art studios as well as the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design. So, it makes perfect sense that this boutique hotel is brimming with colorful art, funky installations, and unique decor!
One of the coolest things about Kimpton Journeyman is the rooftop bar and lounge. Head up here, and you’ll find a popular indoor/outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar, long fire-pits, shuffleboard, and a giant Connect 4.
Be sure to have at least one meal at the hotel’s excellent restaurant. Tre Rivali serves up seriously good modern Mediterranean dishes and handcrafted cocktails.
You’ll love all of the hotel’s forward-thinking freebies. You can explore the neighborhood on one of the loaner bikes, sip local micro-brews during the evening reception, borrow a custom Journeyman Leather Backpack from the front desk, or do downward dog with the in-room yoga mat.
This pet-friendly hotel will also pamper your pups with loaner pet beds, food, water bowls, and mats. The thoughtful touches are extended into the impeccably decorated rooms. Step inside and you’ll find Midwestern-style decor, footstools stocked with insider info inside, and luxe ensuites with Atelier Bloem amenities.
7. The Plaza Hotel
If you’re looking for a home away from home during your trip, The Plaza is one of the best boutique hotels in Milwaukee. Plus, the Milwaukee Art Museum and Lake Michigan are both a short stroll away.
The Art Deco-style rooms are all outfitted with fully equipped kitchens, so you can make your own meals if you don’t feel like going out. You’ll love the plush beds, cozy sitting areas, and beautiful 1920s-tile bathrooms. The newly renovated Premiere Jr. King Suite is well worth it for its separate living room, gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and subway-tiled bath with a Kohler rain stream showerhead.
If you don’t feel like cooking but don’t want to go far, Cafe at the Plaza has everything you need. On Sundays, you’ll love brunching and sipping Bloody Marys and mimosas in the ivy-clad courtyard.
If you’re exhausted after the end of a long day, order up a Southern fried chicken sandwich, custom salad, or classic burger, and have a relaxing movie night in your room. And if you really want to treat yourself, book a session with the incredible on-site masseuse!
8. Brewhouse Inn and Suites
Brewhouse Inn and Suites is by far the most unique boutique hotel in Milwaukee. The inn is actually housed in the old Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery! Step inside and you’ll find all sorts of original features – from the giant copper brewing kettles to the stained glass window of King Gambrinus.
The suites seamlessly blend historic elements with modern and luxurious touches. You’ll love the exposed brick walls and pipes, fully-equipped kitchens with dining tables, and Pabst Blue Ribbon ice buckets. If you want to go all out, the Baron Terrace Suites have towering 18-foot ceilings, separate bedrooms, and large private terraces overlooking the city.
Before heading out for the day, you can fuel up with the hotel’s complimentary breakfast. If you’re looking for things to see, do, and eat in the up-and-coming Brewery District, the ultra-friendly staff will shower you with all sorts of recommendations. But if you want to get into the Pabst spirit, you can tour the Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion, see live music at Pabst Theater, or learn about Pabst’s beer history at Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery!
After a long day, you can hang out at the hotel’s outdoor beer garden. Or, if you feel like working off some of those Pabst calories, there is a fully outfitted gym on-site.
9. Hotel Metro
If you’re looking for a luxury stay right in the heart of the city, Hotel Metro is one of the best hotels in Milwaukee. Whether you’re in town for work or for play, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, the Public Market, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee Art Museum, and Lake Michigan are all within easy reach.
You’ll love hanging out on the rooftop terrace. You can easily spend your days lounging around the reflecting pool, soaking in the saltwater hot tub, or warming up around the fireplace. The rooftop also boasts an excellent restaurant and cocktail bar.
The oversized rooms all have Art Deco decor, spacious sitting areas with sofas, and beautifully decorated ensuites. If you want to go big, you can’t go wrong with the lavish Presidential Suite. The suite is outfitted with over-the-top 1920s-style decor, a living room with a fireplace, and wrap-around windows with stunning city views.
The friendly staff at the front desk will provide you with free loaner bikes so you can explore downtown Milwaukee. And if you want to keep up with your exercise routine, there’s a fully outfitted gym on-site.
10. Ambassador Hotel
With its Art Deco facade and pampering amenities, the Ambassador Hotel is the perfect blend of historic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel is situated a bit outside of downtown, but you’ll have full use of the complimentary shuttle, which will whisk you away to all of downtown’s main attractions.
Step inside the grand lobby, and you’ll immediately be impressed by the original black and white marble floors, bronze elevator doors, and luxurious trimmings.
The 1920s-style elegance extends to the ultra-spacious rooms, which are all outfitted with classic furnishings, ergonomic workstations, and comfy sitting areas. The Keurig coffee makers, complimentary Beekman toiletries, and turndown service are nice added touches.
Before heading out for the day, you can grab coffee drinks and homemade pastries at Deco Café. Gin Rickey is the place to be for pre-prohibition-inspired cocktails and craft brews – especially during happy hour from 4-7 pm on Sundays!
For refined dinners, Fitz offers innovative dishes inspired by the 1920s. Or, if you’re too lazy to get out of your plush bathrobe, room service is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
11. Dubbel Dutch
If you prefer to stay in one of the most unique boutique hotels in Milwaukee, Dubbel Dutch might just be the perfect pick! The boutique hotel is housed in an 1898 English Renaissance Revival-style mansion in the city’s East Town neighborhood. So, attractions like Discovery World, the Milwaukee Art Museum, and Lake Michigan are just a few blocks away!
Each room in the mansion is completely unique and boasts a picture-perfect blend of original architectural details and modern touches. No matter which room or suite you choose, you’ll love the custom-made modern furniture, curated artwork, and eclectic area rugs. From the locally made organic bath products to the custom handmade water glasses and mugs, expect all sorts of thoughtful amenities.
Before heading out for the evening, grab drinks at the chic on-site tavern. With an extensive menu of cocktails, beers, and spirits, this is a great spot to mingle with friends over pre-dinner drinks!
12. Hyatt Place Milwaukee Downtown
Set in the recently revitalized Brewery Area, Hyatt Place Milwaukee has everything you need to have a relaxing stay during your visit to the city. You’ll be able to walk to Fiserv Forum, the Wisconsin Center, and the Pabst Taproom. Plus, this hotel is pet-friendly if you want to bring your furry friend along.
The residential-style rooms boast plush Hyatt Grand Beds, a Cozy Corner with a sleeper-sofa and oversized workstation, and a 49-inch HDTV. If you’re planning on a longer stay or just want more space, the contemporary suites offer separate bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchenettes.
In the mornings, enjoy the hotel’s complimentary spread of hot and cold items at the Breakfast Bar. You can also grab specialty coffee drinks, boozy beverages, and regionally inspired bites at The Bar. Or, if you want to bring some snacks and drinks back to your room, there’s a 24/7 grab-and-go market on-site.
You can keep up with your workout routine in the hotel’s state-of-the-art gym. And if you need to get some work done during your trip, the business center is open 24/7.
That’s it – 12 of the best Milwaukee hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Milwaukee? Let us know in the comments below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to stay at the Iron Horse Hotel. Located across the street from the Harley-Davidson Museum, this motorcycle-themed hotel goes out of its way to cater to bikers – though you don’t have to be one to stay here! Expect all sorts of unique amenities – from covered motorcycle parking to in-room storage areas for your biking gear. You’ll love all of the hotel’s funky motorcycle art and custom furnishings, including chandeliers made from motorcycle gears!
Nestled in the heart of the Historic Third Ward district, Kimpton Journeyman Hotel is surrounded by more than 20 galleries and art studios as well as the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design. So, it makes perfect sense that this boutique hotel is brimming with colorful art, funky installations, and unique decor!
Brewhouse Inn and Suites is by far the most unique boutique hotel in Milwaukee. The inn is actually housed in the old Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery! Step inside and you’ll find all sorts of original features – from the giant copper brewing kettles to the stained glass window of King Gambrinus.
When it comes to drinking and dining, you’ll be spoiled for choice in The Pfister Hotel! Enjoy leisurely breakfasts at the Café At The Pfister, go brunching at The Rouge, enjoy steak and seafood dinners at Mason Street Grill, and grab nightcaps at the elegant Lobby Lounge. Be sure to head up to the 23rd floor, where you can sip cocktails and take in the sweeping city views at the martini bar, Blu.
With its Art Deco facade and pampering amenities, the Ambassador Hotel is the perfect blend of historic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel is situated a bit outside of downtown, but you’ll have full use of the complimentary shuttle, which will whisk you away to all of downtown’s main attractions.
We had the pleasure of staying at The Kinn in Bayshore two times, and can’t say enough great things about our experience. We live in Milwaukee and chose this location for our “staycation.” My husband and I wanted to getaway but still feel the joys and excitement that the city has to offer – dinner, drinks, shops, dining – all right there at The Kinn or within walking distance. We got snowed in our first night, which was perfect because we came prepared with a cheese board, a beautiful bottle of red, and chess board. The inviting common room, with a nicely lit fire was a perfect setting for my first chess lesson. The atmosphere was perfectly relaxed and cozy. After playing a few rounds (is that what it’s called) of chess, I was a bit overwhelmed. As a newbie, I needed a brain break, so we went downstairs and enjoyed one of the best ribeyes we’ve ever had in the Milwaukee area. The night was pure bliss. After a full head, and an even fuller belly, we made our way back to our room, nestled ourselves in the most comfortable bed with pillows that felt like they were manufactured in heaven and sheets that enveloped me in a way that said, don’t ever leave! But like all good things, our trip had to come to and end, but not without another visit back to the common area that morning where we enjoyed a freshly baked croissant from a local bakery and a delicious cup of coffee. The Kinn is unlike any place you’ll stay. If you’re like us, you won’t ever want to go back to the traditional hotel model. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get snowed in and can stay even longer.