Unveiling the Charms of Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel: A Stay Worth Remembering? 2024
Have you ever wanted to stay at a historic hotel? Does the thought of forgotten romance intrigue you, or are you looking for that ideal place for your own romantic getaway?
We recently stayed at The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, a 125-year-old city icon, for a romantic winter getaway. We love to share with you the charm of the Pfister Hotel and why we walked away knowing it was a stay we will not forget.
The Pfister has been referred to as the best destination for romance in Milwaukee, so we felt like we were in good hands.
Standing in the lobby, we had to remind ourselves we were in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and not Paris. Our stay at the Pfister quickly became the highlight of our Weekend Getaway to Milwaukee.
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Unveiling the Charms of Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel
The Pfister Hotel sets the bar high for a romantic weekend. Just stepping through the door, you will feel like the Pfister extends its arms and welcomes you.
You can feel the years of history, excellence, and romantic moments that have happened over the years. You can excitedly add your romantic story and moments to Pfister’s history.
Although elegant and charming, the grand entrance and the magnificent high ceiling in the lobby were also warm and inviting. The ceiling in the lobby was once a glass atrium but is now a work of art. One can not help but be captivated by its beauty.
Location of the Pfister Hotel
The historic Pfister Hotel is nestled in downtown Milwaukee. This iconic establishment has been a cornerstone of the city since 1893, standing proudly near the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan.
Surrounded by a vibrant cityscape, the Pfister is within walking distance of some of Milwaukee’s most renowned attractions. Just steps away, one can explore the Milwaukee Art Museum’s striking architecture or wander through the Historic Third Ward, brimming with art galleries, boutiques, and dining delights.
The hotel’s proximity to the Fiserv Forum, home of the Milwaukee Bucks, adds a dash of excitement for sports enthusiasts. With its prime location, the Pfister Hotel seamlessly blends timeless elegance with the pulse of modern city life.
On one of our trips to Milwaukee, we discovered that Pfister has so much more to offer couples than its prime location.
History of Pfister Hotel Milwaukee
To fully appreciate The Pfister Hotel, you must first look at its fantastic history. In 1871, Guido Pfister purchased the land in Milwaukee that the Pfister now sits on for $200. He dreamed of building a Grand Hotel in a European Tradition in downtown Milwaukee.
Unfortunately, Guido passed away just after the construction of The Pfister Hotel was started. His son Charles F. Pfister, rather than abandoning the expensive project, threw himself into fulfilling his father’s dream, even using part of the estate to finance the construction.
The Pfister Hotel was one of the most lavish hotels of its time, costing more than 1 million dollars to build in 1893. It was the first all-electric hotel with individual thermostats in each room.
The Pfister Hotel is an elegant milestone in Milwaukee’s history.
In 1894, the republican delegate convention was held at The Pfister Hotel, establishing it as the venue for political events. In 1899, the Pfister’s Ballroom hosted a dinner for President William McKinley and his entire cabinet. It was said that The Pfister Hotel became the capital for one night.
Over the years, the Pfister Hotel has become known as The Hotel of Presidents. It has welcomed nearly every U.S. President since 1899, not to mention royals, sports stars, and big-name entertainers.
Such names include Aretha Franklin, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. When staying at the hotel, keep your eyes open. You never know who you might run into in the lobby.
Stop and talk with the concierge while strolling, enjoying the Pfister’s unique details and architecture. We did and heard some fantastic stories about famous hotel guests from past stays.
Throughout the years, the Pfister Hotel has gone through many changes. Following a stroke in 1927, Charles Pfister sold the hotel, his family’s dream, to Ray Smith, a former bellboy and longtime employee of the Pfister.
Under Ray Smith’s ownership, the hotel continued to stand tall with the grandeur it was known for since day one. However, it showed its age and much needed some love.
After years of decline, in 1962, the hotel was purchased by a Milwaukee businessman, Ben Marcus. He saved the hotel from bankruptcy and demolition. Ben Marcus was ready to give The Pfister Hotel the love it needed to restore its original elegance.
Ben Marcus undertook a massive renovation, investing an additional 7 million dollars, giving The Pfister Hotel the love it needed to continue standing tall.
During the renovations, a 23-story guest room tower with more modern amenities was added to the hotel.
The hotel’s top floor has a spectacular view of the city and Lake Michigan. It houses a pool and what is known as The Crown Room, which has hosted many well-known entertainers over the years.
Today, the 23rd floor is also home to the hotel’s pool with a wall of windows overlooking Lake Michigan, the Club Lounge, and Blu, a nightly martini bar.
During the day, Blu is where afternoon tea is served. Afternoon tea is just a small example of the romantic style and elegance that the Pfister is known for.
Accommodations at The Pfister Hotel Milwaukee
Every detail has been carefully thought of and taken care of. Your room will have everything you expect and more. The beds are luxurious, perfect for relaxing and cuddling after a night on the town or a day of pampering at the spa.
The rooms on the tower’s upper floors included exclusive access to the Pfister Club Lounge. You will enjoy special amenities in your room, such as turndown and shoe shine service.
As you return to your room at day’s end, the meticulous comfort details unfold: a neatly laid-out robe, a gracefully turned-down bed, and delicious chocolates on your pillow await you. These thoughtful touches truly elevate The Pfister’s service. Throughout your stay, the pampering experience allows ample time to savor those romantic moments together.
Amenities at the Pfister Hotel
The Pfister Hotel boasts a lavish array of amenities catering to your desires. You’ll step into a world of relaxation at the WELL Spa + Salon, where rejuvenating massages, facials, and beauty treatments await.
If you are into fitness, you will delight in the 24-hour, state-of-the-art fitness center, ensuring a seamless workout routine while away from home.
Culinary delights abound with multiple dining options, from the elegant fine dining experience at Mason Street Grill to the chic and cozy atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge.
A stop at the Lobby Lounge Bar for a nightcap is an ideal way to end your evening before retiring to your room. The nightly music adds a relaxed atmosphere as you cozy up together in front of the fire.
If you want a little extra during your stay, head to the 23rd floor and visit the Club Lounge. The Club Lounge offers you an area with computers and printers if you need to do some work. The club lounge is where you can enjoy breakfast in the morning, hors-d’oeuvres, and drinks in the evening, all in a very relaxing atmosphere.
Did anyone say Starbucks? Yes, your morning can start with Starbucks in the Pfister lobby. We said no details have been left unattended by The Pfister, allowing you to focus on each other and your romantic journey.
Starbucks coffee in the morning and a romantic Pfister Tea experience overlooking the city of Milwaukee and Lake Michigan in the afternoon.
Even if your stay is filled with just wandering the halls and enjoying the art collection, having a drink at the Lobby Lounge, stopping and chatting with the concierge, and hear firsthand the fantastic history and stories about The Pfister. (We heard rumors of it being haunted, but we ran into no ghosts during our stay)
Additionally, Pfister’s impeccable service and attention to detail ensure a seamless and indulgent stay, making it a destination that exceeds expectations.
The Romantic Side of the Pfister
The Pfister Hotel, where romance finds its perfect haven, has been an award-winning AAA Four-Diamond gem for over 45 years. Being part of Historic Hotels of America and Prefered Hotels and Resorts, it embodies timeless elegance with a modern twist.
Stepping into this historic icon, we discovered a blend of preserved charm and youthful appeal that set the stage for a romantic getaway hiding in Milwaukee’s downtown. Every corner exuded comfort meticulously tailored to the charm of old souls and the young at heart.
The Pfister has been home to numerous high society weddings and holiday parties. Many honeymooners have found the Pfister Hotel the ideal location for a honeymoon getaway in Milwaukee.
The Pabst family has a historical connection with the Pfister Hotel. Frederick Pabst’s daughter, Marie Pabst, married Charles Best at the Pfister Hotel in 1889. The wedding was a grand affair and marked a significant event in the hotel’s history, adding to its legacy as a venue for notable celebrations. The union of Marie Pabst and Charles Best made Pabst beer significant in Milwaukee history.
Learn more about Pabst’s history and how Pabst influenced Milwaukee.
From the enchanting public spaces to the cozy rooms, every detail whispered relaxation and romance, assuring us of a delightful stay in good hands.
Tea at the Pfister
Enjoy an afternoon of romance while enjoying tea in Blu.
As we settled into the elegant ambiance of the Pfister Hotel’s tea experience, romance seemed to dance in every sip of tea. The soft melodies of live piano music serenaded us as we indulged in a delightful array of delicate pastries, dainty sandwiches, and freshly brewed teas.
The ornate china and silverware added an air of sophistication to the affair, while the attentive staff made us feel like cherished guests in a royal setting.
Surrounded by the ornate Victorian architecture and bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun filtering through the windows, the moments lingered, each sip and bite shared amidst a tapestry of whispered conversations and shared smiles, making it an afternoon steeped in the finest of moments and a genuinely romantic indulgence.
The Pfister Art Collection
If you seek a cultural immersion, the hotel offers an inspiring art collection featuring the Artist-in-Residence program, showcasing local talents.
One of the many things that make The Pfister stand above them all is the magnificent Victorian art gracing its walls.
After purchasing The Pfister Hotel in 1962, Ben Marcus discovered that the hotel was home to the original and largest Victorian art collection of any hotel in the world.
The Pfister art collection was acquired by Guido and Charles Pfister and was valued at more than the hotel. This collection includes Victorian paintings and elegant sculptures. The artwork is original to when the hotel opened its doors.
Displayed exclusively within these walls, this art has never graced any other venue except the Pfister Hotel and offers a unique glimpse into history.
Among these treasures stand the famed lion statues, Dick and Harry, who were gifted to Charles Pfister just after the opening of this magnificent hotel. These statues once graced the hotel entrance and still majestically greet visitors in the lobby.
Woven throughout the hotel, you see a love for the arts that goes back to the original dream of Guido’s, to create a Grand Hotel steeped in European tradition to the people of Milwaukee.
The Pfister – Artist in Residence
Following the passion for art, in 2009, The Pfister Hotel expanded its love for the arts by creating a unique program – Artist-in-Residence, one of the first of its kind in the country.
The Pfister Hotel’s Artist-in-Residence program features a working artist, an art studio, and a gallery on the lobby level of The Pfister Hotel. The artists’ studio is open to hotel guests and the public. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the artist while watching each piece being created and come to life.
Each year, artists from across the county apply for this 1-year residency. The artist for the year is chosen by creative process, personality, and public vote. This program has become an extension of the hotel. A local artist works closely with the hotel to give guests and visitors a unique Pfister experience.
When planning, you can schedule an appointment with the Artist-in-Residence for a personal tour of The Pfister Art Collection.
This residence program is a one-of-a-kind experience in Milwaukee’s art community with one of Milwaukee’s and the country’s most revered hotels. Additionally, each Artist-in-Residence creates a legacy piece to display in the hotel permanently.
The Pfister Artist-in-Residence receives a monthly stipend, complimentary meals at Café at The Pfister, and a monthly house spending account to entertain new and potential buyers.
The Artist in Residence program runs from April 1 through March 31. Meet this year’s current Artist-in-Residence at The Pfister.
If you are a budding artist and are interested in applying for this unique opportunity, then you can fill out the Artist-in-Residence Application using this link. After meeting with this year’s current artist, it made me want to find my creative side.
Conclusion ~ The Pfister Hotel, A Stay Worth Remembering?
You will fall in love with The Pfister and the entire staff! From the time you step through the door, the Pfister will welcome you with an elegance that will carry through your entire stay. You will feel pampered and can relax and enjoy your time together, focusing on romantic moments.
If you are looking for a luxurious romantic getaway in Milwaukee, do not overlook the Pfister Hotel.
Our stay at The Pfister was a distinctly unique experience where we enjoyed the elegance, grandeur, and beauty of the Pfister, but even more, we enjoyed the romance of being together.
We had a wonderful time on our romantic getaway to Milwaukee. Staying at the Pfister was the ultimate in romance. If you are in Milwaukee and looking for an ideal place for your time together, a stop at The Pfister must be on your list.
You don’t have to stay at the Pfister to enjoy its grandeur, elegance, and beauty. Visitors are welcome to wander the halls in the main areas and enjoy the beauty and elegance of the Pfister. Stop for Starbucks or enjoy a nightly cocktail.
We have had many romantic getaways to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Every season has something majestic to offer. Even during Wisconsin’s cold winter, romance is in the air. These Romantic Winter Date Ideas in Milwaukee are all you need to heat things up.
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Thank you, VISIT Milwaukee and The Pfister Hotel, for making part of our weekend possible and for all your help showing us the romantic possibilities in Milwaukee and at The Pfister Hotel.
Some parts of this blog post have been sponsored. This means we may have received compensation for publishing the post. All thoughts, experiences, and opinions remain our own.