About Milwaukee

Founded by French fur trappers and missionaries in the early 19th Century, but better known for its long tradition of German settlers, the lakeside metropolis of Milwaukee is the mid-west in microcosm. An industrial centre made famous by its breweries, this Wisconsin city now brims with cultural and outdoorsy attractions, making it a wonderful choice for a fun-filled city break. Accommodation options include everything from intimate guesthouses to swish city hotels, fit for couples, families, friends or business travellers. Even better — our pick of the best places to stay in Milwaukee are clustered around the vibrant downtown area, within easy reach of all the action.

If you’re in the city for its cultural big-hitters, head to the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Haggerty Museum of Art and the quirky Harley Davidson Museum. Guided walking or bus tours offer a great opportunity to get a real sense of the energy of the city and its lesser-known stories, too. Art and music lovers will find myriad independent galleries to explore, as well as buzzing gigs at venues across the city. Book your tickets for the ballet, the symphony orchestra and the opera well in advance, especially during the summer months.

Outdoorsy travellers can enjoy sailing, surfing, kayaking or kite-surfing on Lake Michigan, whilst there are also cycling and hiking paths aplenty in the vicinity. The Boerner Botanical Gardens and 220-acre Wehr Nature Center are ideal for long walks in verdant surroundings. Alternatively, catch the Milwaukee Brewers in action at American Family Field for an immersion into the sports-mad local scene. If you're travelling as a family, take a boat trip, or spend a day at the David F. Schulz Aquatic Center -- the kids will love it.

Milwaukee’s German influence can be felt through the city’s many German restaurants, its exceptional brewery tours and tastings, and its two German festivals. The best places to stay in Milwaukee can fill up fast during festival season in June and October, so book your room as soon as you can!

The Best Places to Stay in Milwaukee

For Design Aficionados

  • The Iron Horse is a Harley Davidson-themed luxury hotel just across the bridge from downtown Milwaukee’s famous Harley Davidson Museum. Interios are sleek and contemporary and Smyth restaurant offers season menus with ingredients sourced as locally as possible. An atmospheric pick for couples, friends or families, complete with a gym and spa.
  • Hotel Metro offers a superb Art Deco-style launchpad for exploring Milwaukee's artsy and cultural scene. Great for couples, families or business travellers, this hip hotel boasts a rooftop bar as well as impressive eco credentials.
  • Saint Kate The Arts Hotel is a swish city pad in the entertainment district. Expect bold pops of colour, sleek design-led interiors and an array of in-house exhibitions and live music nights. Highlights include in-room record players, two glamourous restaurants and a bar. For artsy visitors.

For Longer Stays

  • The Brewhouse Inn & Suites has been transformed from a historic brewery to an impressive collection of studios, one- and two-bedroom suites with self-catering facilities and work spaces. The building's original character has been preserved. This Brewery District bolthole is perfect for business travellers or couples and families planning on a longer stay.
  • Kinn Guesthouse features eight trendy, loft-style suites with eclectic artwork and exposed brick walls. Located in suburban Milwaukee, this boutique spot is ideal for longer stays, offering a well-equipped communal kitchen and lounge area. Stylish and sociable.

For Luxury

  • Kimpton Journeyman Hotel is a sophisticated new build in Milwaukee's creative Third Ward area. Pick this place for the chic contemporary decor, fun rooftop bar and family-friendly accommodation options. The complimentary bicycles are a nice touch! The overall feel is lavish and romantic.

FOR AN APARTMENT

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Milwaukee's Mitchell Airport and travel to your hotel by bus, train or taxi from there.
  • Wisconsin is a wonderful state to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 21°C and 25°C, or come during the winter for snow-filled days and cosy evenings.

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The best hotels in Milwaukee

The Brewhouse Inn & Suites

Milwaukee

Historic brewery transformed into a unique boutique hotel. Ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites, self-catered rooms all have kitchenettes & spacious living areas. One of a kind antique furnishings, soaring ceilings & repurposed wood add character. A fab base in the downtown Brewery District.

  • Local exploring - Located bang in the heart of The Brewery District, a newly renovated historic district transformed from Pabst Brewery complex
  • Business meetings - Ideal for those in town for work. In addition to high-speed wifi & generous work spaces, there are special long-stay packages
  • Groups - Two-bedroom suites fit up to six people, making this a great-value choice for friends or families
  • Sights nearby - Visit Captain Frederick Pabst Museum; the former Captain's home was built in 1892 and offers guided tours
from AU$300 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Pfister Hotel

Milwaukee (Wisconsin)

Old world charm meets contemporary luxury in this Victorian institution and downtown Milwaukee grand dame. Two restaurants, 23rd floor cocktail bar, a luxury spa, fine views over Lake Michigan and traditional dark wood furnishings and antiques make this a top place to stay in the city.

  • Local exploring - A top central spot in Milwaukee means that all the city highlights are easily accessible
  • City Style - A smart modern overhaul of one of the city's iconic properties
  • Restaurant - Mason Street Grill and the Cafe at the Pfister are popular with locals and residents alike
  • Views - Great views both over the city and Lake Michigan from the 23rd floor
from AU$306 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Iron Horse

Milwaukee (Wisconsin)

This Harley Davidson themed luxury hotel has spacious, contemporary rooms located in a converted industrial setting. The Smyth Restaurant is traditional in Midwest cuisine, breakfast in The Library, events in The Yard and drinks at Branded Bar. Spa and gym both complete the modern, business image.

  • Sights nearby - Across the bridge from the Harley Davidson Museum.
  • Lively
  • Full of character
  • Spa
from AU$308 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Metro, Milwaukee

Milwaukee (Wisconsin)

Art Deco environmentally conscious Milwaukee landmark for business travellers and luxury seekers. Large, contemporary rooms have access to pool, spa and gym and the treat of breakfast in bed. Zen On 7 rooftop lounge is popular across town on an evening, or casual dining at the restaurant.

  • Sights nearby - Ten Chimneys Foundation is a 60 acre estate with rich history and stunning collections.
  • Spa - Relax in the salt water hot tub with waterfall.
  • Lively
  • Restaurant
from AU$309 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Trade

Milwaukee (Wisconsin)

Chic design hotel in the entertainment district. Rooms feature bold decor with leather and marble; some with high ceilings, fireplaces and large windows for great city views. Rooftop restaurant, Il Cervo, serves modern Italian cuisine & there are several bars to choose from. A decadent city stay.

  • City Style - The Trade's suites offer ultimate city chic with extra height ceilings, stunning views, balconies and luxe living areas
  • Local exploring - Ideally situated to explore the local history with the Milwaukee Art Museum and County Historical Society nearby
  • Great walks - Take the Milwaukee River Walk, a great way to see the city with plenty of dining options along the way
  • Restaurant - Il Cervo serves modern Italian cuisine, or opt for Solomons for sharing plates
from AU$352 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kinn Guesthouse

Milwaukee

Spacious & on-trend suites in suburban Milwaukee. The historic brick exterior gives a loft feel to rooms with unique local artwork, designer furnishings & lake views. A cosy communal area with a full kitchen, fireplace, TV & seating area makes this feel like home. Fab long-stay boutique bolthole.

  • Local exploring - Well-located to explore all the sites along Milwaukee's Oak Leaf Trail; enjoy museums, gardens, waterparks and restaurants
  • Surfing - Surprisingly, Lake Michigan is a fantastic surfing spot in the winter months. Just make sure to bring your wetsuit!
  • Great walks - The property is located closeby to access points on the Oak Leaf Trail, one of the city's beloved natural features
  • Sights nearby - Visit Boerner Botanical Gardens or 220-acre Wehr Nature Center
from AU$354 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Saint Kate The Arts Hotel

Milwaukee

A vibrant boutique-style hotel located in the city's entertainment district. Inspired by everything art-related expect live music, exhibitions & record players in glossy contemporary city-view rooms. Two restaurants & bars are ideal watering holes for nights on the town. A deluxe downtown delight.

  • City Style - One of the sleekest and chicest hotels in the city combining fine-dining, exciting art and plush well-designed rooms
  • Local exploring - The place to stay for those who love the arts; exhibitions, concerts, theatre productions and museums surround you
  • Artworks - The hotel's vast contemporary art galleries host complimentary rotating exhibitions throughout the year
  • Restaurant - Two very 'of the moment' restaurants offer Neopolitan pizza in an old-world setting and artisanal American cuisine
from AU$362 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kimpton Journeyman Hotel

Milwaukee

This characterful new-build is a fantastic addition to the Historic Third Ward area. The rooms offer understated opulence with Frette linen, tasteful art and indulgent bathrooms. With a choice of two restaurants, an excellent gym and a pet pampering policy it is a perfect city break.

  • City Style - A suave and sophisticated city break hotel in Milwaukee's most desirable area, with gourmet cusine and a lively rooftop bar
  • Romantic Break - For an extra romantic vibe choose the King Spa rooms with enormous soaking tubs and silky soft sheets
  • Local markets - Milwaukee Public Market is just a few minutes down the road and is well known for its artisan food producers
  • Romantic
from AU$512 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia