Image of inside of the Pfister Hotel lobby in Milwaukee WI

10 Cool Hotels in Milwaukee for Visitors in 2023

Category: Milwaukee

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Heading to Milwaukee for a weekend getaway, a conference, or to visit friends or family?

You probably need a place to stay, then. And lucky for you, you landed on the right guide because I live in Milwaukee and will show you my favorite cool hotels in the city.

Located on beautiful Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is steeped in history, with many cultural attractions and things to do. And there are lots of great hotels to choose from.

As the largest city in Wisconsin, you’ll find plenty of options. No matter which hotel you choose, I’m sure you’ll enjoy your stay in this underrated city.

Image of green sign that reads "Welcome to Milwaukee"

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10 Cool Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

1. Brewhouse Inn and Suites

Image of copper brewing kettle in the middle of Brew House Suites Hotel
Copper brew kettles used by Pabst Brewing

Location: Juneau Town (West Town) neighborhood

What could be more Milwaukee than sleeping in a historic brewery where you’re welcomed by the stained glass visage of the patron saint of beer brewing?

The Brewhouse Inn & Suites is located in the historic Pabst Brewery complex and is close to many attractions like the Milwaukee River, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and the Fiserv Forum.

What makes this hotel so darn cool is that the hotel kept many of the original features of the building used for brewing Pabst Beer. And the best feature is the original copper brewing kettles. Walk out of your room to a view of brewing heaven!

From studios to two-bedroom suites, you’ll find accommodations perfect for you. Each unit has an in-room kitchen with everything you need.

There is a complimentary breakfast each morning. And an outdoor terrace, fitness area, and business center.

Image of bedroom at the Brewhouse Inn and Suites
Image of exterior of the Brewhouse Inn and Suites exterior at night with neon Pabst sign
Image of lobby of Brewhouse Inn and Suites with copper brew kettles
Image of two chairs facing each other with a painting of a B in the background representing the Best Family who started Pabst Brewery

Photos: Brewhouse Inn and Suites

2. County Clare Irish Inn and Pub

Image of the outside of County Clare Irish Inn and Pub in Milwaukee WI

Location: Yankee Hill

Stay at one of the best Irish Pubs in Milwaukee!

County Clare is a traditional Irish Inn and Pub that will make you feel immediately at home. The rooms are cozy and quaint, and all have whirlpool tubs. They also offer a delicious continental breakfast, including an omelet station and an assortment of bakery.

The location of County Clare can’t be beaten. It’s within walking distance of many Milwaukee attractions, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, Summerfest grounds, Brady Street (for food and shopping), and the Historic Third Ward.

And if you stay here, make sure to eat at the pub for at least one night. County Clare serves delicious traditional Irish fare that will make you think you are in Dublin.

2. Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast

Location: Concordia neighborhood

Choose the Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast if you want a memorable experience when visiting Milwaukee.

Located in the city’s heart, this Victorian-style mansion is a beautiful place to stay while exploring all that Milwaukee offers. The B&B offers several levels of service, so you’ll be able to find a fantastic place to stay at a price you can afford.

The mansion offers a variety of rooms and suites with unique antique furnishings, plush beds, private baths, and original artwork. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and tea service each day.

You will leave the Shuster Mansion feeling pampered and ready for your next adventure.

3. The Pfister Hotel

Image of inside of the Pfister Hotel lobby in Milwaukee WI

Location: Kilbourn Town (East Town)

The Pfister Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in Milwaukee and one of the best hotels in the Midwest.

Located downtown, the hotel has been a staple since it opened in 1893 and has been visited by presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries. It houses the largest collection of European art outside of Europe.

Offering luxurious guestrooms and suites, you will indeed find accommodations that meet your needs. Each room has modern amenities and rich fabrics for a comfortable stay.

The hotel also has several restaurants and bars, an indoor pool with a panoramic city view, and an awarding-winning spa.

It’s also one of the best pet-friendly hotels in Milwaukee. So bring along fido!

Spend the night on top of the world at BLU Lounge and Bar. Situated on the 23rd floor, treat yourself to stunning views and a swanky cocktail.

Image of bedroom example at the Pfister Hotel
Image of king size bed at the Pfister Hotel
Image of Mason Street Grill at the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee WI
Image of couches in the lobby of the Pfister Hotel

Photos: The Pfister Hotel

4. Saint Kate – The Art Hotel

Image of the red neon sign reading "saint Kate"
Photo: Saint Kate

Location: Juneau Town (West Town) neighborhood

Saint Kate – The Art Hotel is a fantastic oasis just north of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward neighborhood near many of Milwaukee’s theatres. This exquisite hotel offers a unique stay with its blend of art and luxury.

Art is a significant part of the experience at St. Kate. Everywhere you turn, there are pieces from regional artists that showcase the history and culture of Milwaukee.

The hotel offers spacious rooms with touches not found in other hotels. Each room features art from local makers, a record player, a ukelele, in-room butcher paper with crayons, and stunning views of the city below. Book a premier room to access higher floors with enhanced views.

Saint Kate is also one of the best places to grab a drink or bite to eat in the city. The downstairs bar is perfect for a drink before a show, and the champagne bar, Giggly, is great for a night on the town.

Image of bedroom at Saint Kate - The Art Hotel
Lobby of Saint Kate with a horse statue in the middle
Image of a small record player in each room at Saint Kate
Bedroom at Saint Kate

Photos: Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

5. Kimpton Journeyman Hotel

Image of the outside entrance into the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in Milwaukee WI

Location: Historic Third Ward neighborhood

The Kimpton Journeyman Hotel is one of Milwaukee’s best hotels. This boutique hotel, located in Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward district, offers a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Entering the lobby, you’ll be greeted with the warmth and rustic smell of a roaring fire.

You’ll find all the luxury of the Kimpton brand, from excellent service to plush beds and designer toiletries. All the rooms feature art pieces by local artists that are guaranteed to spark a conversation.

This is also a pet-friendly hotel offering pet amenities at no extra charge.

Guests can also enjoy a relaxing evening at their on-site restaurant or bar. And don’t miss out on one of the best rooftop bars in the city, The Outsider, on the 9th floor.

Image the front desk and fireplace in the lobby of the Kimpton Journeyman hotel
Image of The Outsider bar at night. Firepits and people sitting at bar
Image of room at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel
Image of pool table in the lobby of The Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in Milwaukee

Photos: The Kimpton Journeyman

6. Dubbel Dutch

Image of the outside of the Dubbel Dutch hotel in Milwaukee WI

Location: Kilbourn (East Town) neighborhood

Dubbel Dutch is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a modern hotel with old-world charm.

Located a block away from the Lake Michigan waterfront and within walking distance of attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Historic Third Ward.

Built in 1898, the property was saved from the wrecking ball in 1985 by the City of the Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission. Left abandoned for years, it was finally turned into this stunning hotel that perfectly combines historic and modern.

Several rooms even have historic ornamental fireplaces that are decorative.

With only a few rooms available, the Dubbel Dutch is definitely a great pick for a unique experience in Milwaukee.

7. The Iron Horse Hotel

Location: Walker’s Point neighborhood

The Iron Horse Hotel is perfect for a luxurious and “gritty” stay in Milwaukee.

Even though they cater to those who love their motorcycles, it’s a great place to stay, even if bikes aren’t your thing.

Each room at The Iron Horse has been designed to reflect the city’s industrial past, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. With delicious restaurants, on-site guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast every morning or a relaxing dinner at night.

The hotel has one of the best patios for outdoor drinks and food in the warmer months. The Iron Horse Hotel is an excellent choice for a luxurious and unique stay in Milwaukee.

Image of room with single queen bed at The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee WI
Image of Harley Davidson motorcycle in the lobby of The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee WI
Image of leather bench seats and tables for two at the restaurant in The Iron Horse Hotel
Image of corner room at the Iron Horse hotel in Milwaukee WI

Photos: The Iron Horse

8. Kinn Guesthouse Bay View

Location: Bay View neighborhood

The Kinn Guesthouse Bay View offers guests a unique place to stay in one of Milwaukee’s best neighborhoods.

Located in the city’s Bay View neighborhood, this hotel offers several guestrooms that feature top-notch amenities like Brooklinen bedding, keyless access, and bathrooms stocked with local hand-made soaps from Ursa.

The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, Sorella, where guests can enjoy delicious meals and drinks, and an outdoor terrace and courtyard. The Kinn Guesthouse is perfect for those who want to explore outside of the downtown area but still be a short cab ride away from the action.

Image of bed in the Kinn Guesthouse Bay View
Image of room in Kinn Guesthouse Bay View showing cream city brick and a white wall with TV hanging
Image of shared kitchen space with state of the art appliances at the Kinn Guesthouse
Image of a white subway tiled bathroom in Kinn Guesthouse Bay View

Photos: Kinn Guesthouse Bay View

9. Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown

Location: Downtown Milwaukee

I know you likely weren’t expecting a Hilton to be on the list of the coolest hotels in Milwaukee. But Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown is steeped in Milwaukee history and is located in one of the most beautiful buildings in downtown Milwaukee.

The hotel also has a restaurant and bar for guests to enjoy and a fitness center. And it’s just a short walk from the Milwaukee Art Museum, Lakeshore State Park, and the city’s nightlife.

The Hilton Garden Inn is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly place to crash with convenience in downtown Milwaukee.

Image of corner room at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown with tall windows
Image of the exterior of the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown at night
Image of vault/safe in the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Milwaukee
Image of king bed in the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown

Photos: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown

10. Hotel Metro

Image of Hotel Metro sign above entrance
Photo: Hotel Metro

Location: Juneau Town Neighborhood

The Hotel Metro is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a stylish, modern hotel in the heart of Milwaukee. Located just north of the Historic Third Ward, this boutique hotel offers oversized guestrooms.

The hotel also has a rooftop bar in the warmer months.

And it’s just a short distance from the Milwaukee Art Museum, Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee Public Market, and other attractions.

Room at Hotel Metro with Fireplace and soaking tub
Image of Hotel Metro lobby with off-white, yellow and black for color pallete
Image of double sink bathroom in a room at Hotel Metro
Image of Room at Hotel Metro in Milwaukee WI

Photos: Hotel Metro

Cool Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin: FAQ

What is the Best Neighborhood to Stay in Milwaukee?

In my opinion, the best neighborhoods to stay in Milwaukee are the Historic Third Ward or Walker’s Point. But there aren’t many hotel options in both of those neighborhoods.

Therefore, for plenty of hotel options check out East Town. Hotels on this list in East Town are The Pfister, Hilton Garden Inn, and Hotel Metro.

Historic Third Ward

If you stay in the Historic Third Ward, you will be close to many of the main things to do in Milwaukee. There will be no need for a car as you can walk or grab a quick ride share to most things in the city.

Walker’s Point

Just south of the Historic Third Ward is Walker’s Point. This neighborhood has its own excellent restaurants and bars and is also a short walk to the Historic Third Ward.

How many days should you spend in Milwaukee?

Two days is the perfect amount of time to get a feel for how amazing this underrated city truly is. In two days, you can sample some of Milwaukee’s finest craft breweries, visit a museum, and eat and drink your way through the city.

What are the Safest Areas to Stay in Milwaukee?

Most visitors stick to the area of Milwaukee closest to the lake. This includes the Historic Third Ward, Bay View, Walker’s Point, the East Side, and Brewer’s Hill.

As with any major city, stay aware of your surroundings.

More Milwaukee Content:
Best Tours in Milwaukee
Best Craft Breweries in Milwaukee
Best Cheap Eats in Milwaukee
Things to Do in Milwaukee: A Local Guide

Final Thoughts: Best Cool Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

No matter where you stay in Milwaukee, you’ll find some great cool hotels and unique places.

Whether you want to experience the culture and nightlife of the Historic Third Ward area or explore outside of the city, there’s something for everyone. So check out these great excellent hotels in Milwaukee and start planning your trip!