The Pfister Hotel has been Milwaukee's address for special occasions since it opened in 1893, and it still feels like the city's living room. It stands at 424 East Wisconsin Avenue, a few blocks from the river and the lakefront, and its high-ceilinged lobby, with its painted ceiling and Victorian art, is worth a look even if you are not staying; the hotel offers guided art tours of its collection. Upstairs, the hotel has a lot more to offer than history. Blu, on the 23rd floor, is one of the city's best-known martini bars, with live music and views over downtown and Lake Michigan, and it hosts the hotel's traditional afternoon tea. The Mason Street Grill serves steaks and seafood from a wood-fire grill with nightly live music, the Lobby Lounge pours cocktails in the historic lobby, and the Café at the Pfister covers breakfast and lunch. There is also a 23rd-floor indoor pool with views of the city and the lake, the WELL Spa and Salon, and a 24-hour fitness center. Pets are welcome.
Location and getting around: from the Pfister you can walk to most of downtown. The Riverwalk and the Bronze Fonz are a few blocks west, the Milwaukee Art Museum and the lakefront are a pleasant walk east, and the Historic Third Ward and the Public Market are about fifteen minutes south on foot. The Hop streetcar, free to ride, runs nearby on its downtown loop, and taxis or rideshares reach the Harley-Davidson Museum and Lakefront Brewery in a few minutes.
Rooms and who it suits: rooms range from classic doubles to suites, and the hotel is the splurge pick for couples on an anniversary, travelers who love historic hotels and anyone who wants the Milwaukee experience done properly. Ask for a higher floor if you want city or lake views. Families like the indoor pool, which is open year-round and a real asset in the Wisconsin winter. Business travelers appreciate the central location and the reliable dining on site.
Good to know: valet parking is offered, and it is worth asking the rate when you book, as downtown parking adds up. Book Mason Street Grill and afternoon tea in advance, particularly in the holiday season, when the lobby is decorated and very popular. The hotel is cashless in some outlets, so carry a card. Rates are at the top of the Milwaukee market and climb on big event weekends.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic 1893 lobby and art tours
- ✓23rd-floor indoor pool
- ✓Blu martini bar with lake views
- ✓Mason Street Grill
- ✓Afternoon tea
- ✓WELL Spa and Salon
- ✓24-hour fitness center
- ✓Pet friendly and valet parking
Good questions
Where is The Pfister Hotel?+
It is at 424 East Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Milwaukee. The Riverwalk, the lakefront and the Art Museum are all within walking distance.
Does The Pfister Hotel have a pool?+
Yes, there is an indoor pool on the 23rd floor with views of downtown and Lake Michigan. A 24-hour fitness center and the WELL Spa and Salon are also on site.
Does The Pfister serve afternoon tea?+
Yes, a traditional afternoon tea is served in Blu, the 23rd-floor bar. Book ahead, especially during the holidays.
