Milwaukee is probably one of the most wonderful cities in all Wisconsin. This famous city is renowned for its various tourist attractions, museums, and exciting attractions!
As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions, and history. Milwaukee has something to offer for any taste. From luxury holidays to budget attractions.
Whether you want to take your family with you or go traveling on your own, Milwaukee is the place to be. Are you wondering where to stay in Milwaukee during your holiday?
Here, I share with you the best places to stay in Milwaukee and some of the best hotels in Milwaukee.
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1. Where to Stay in Milwaukee for Luxury Holidays
For those looking to indulge in some higher-end, luxury attractions, Milwaukee has everything you can expect. Luxury holidays in Milwaukee can guarantee you excellent service, delicious food, magical experiences, and a chance to visit some of the cities’ most wonderful attractions.
When looking for luxury hotels in Milwaukee, you should first decide whether you prefer to unwind or just enjoy the bustling downtown of Milwaukee.
Book here the best tours and activities in Milwaukee, downtown
1. In Milwaukee Downtown
Whether you are itching for a new luxury adventure, or simply want to relax in a wonderful atmosphere, Milwaukee understands what luxury is.
No matter your getaway fantasy, Milwaukee offers a variety of high-end, luxurious hotels and resorts for everyone, from couples to families. The idea is to de-stress and enjoy the fine experiences of luxury holidays.
If you still want to be surrounded by Milwaukee’s most important attractions, I recommend booking a hotel in Milwaukee downtown.
Luxury holidays in Milwaukee downtown means that you’ll spend a stay packed with joy and activities. Here my suggestions for you.
First, you can head to a massive luxury mall for some full-day shopping at major outlets. Here, you can shop until you drop and even watch a brand new movie in the IMax Theatre!
Next, you can enjoy fine dining in one of Milwaukee’s finest steakhouses: Stella Van Buren. Enjoy fine cuts of steak from a menu from one of the world’s most renowned chefs.
For a luxury stay, be sure to check out The Pfister Hotel ****. This resort offers everything you might expect in from a luxury hotel, such as excellent customer service and splendid amenities.
The hotel offers delicious food with delicious quality ingredients. Stay at The Pfister Hotel **** if you want Milwaukee Riverwalk Hotels or any other of the hotels near Riverside Theatre Milwaukee WI.
Best Luxury Hotels in Milwaukee downtown
Homewood Suites By Hilton Milwaukee Downtown ***
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Iron Horse Hotel ****
Kimpton Journeyman Hotel ****
The Westin Milwaukee ****
Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast *****
Related: Best Luxury Resorts in Wisconsin
2. Surroundings of Milwaukee
Why not discover the quiet side of Milwaukee and stay at the shore of Michigan Lake?
From here, you can enjoy fine lake views in the finest luxury hotels in Milwaukee.
Relax at the scene, or even decide to take a dip since enjoying the shores of Lake Michigan is one of the best outdoor activities in Milwaukee!
There are plenty of luxury hotels to choose from when you prefer staying in the outskirts of Milwaukee or at the lakefront of Lake Michigan or even Lake Geneva, one of the best day trips from Milwaukee.
Best Luxury Hotels near Milwaukee
Grand Geneva Resort and Spa ****
Doubletree by Hilton Pleasant Prairie Kenosha, WI ****
Sonesta Milwaukee West ****
Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield ****
Stylish Loft ★ Roof Deck
2. Where to Stay in Milwaukee for Cheap Holidays
What about those who want to travel on a budget? Have no fear because Milwaukee offers affordable and mind-blowing experiences that are very bank-account friendly. Milwaukee is home to a variety of cheap, and even free (!) experiences that anyone under a budget can enjoy.
This includes awesome summer concerts at very low ticket prices (book in advance!) and free public art that you can check out in the right spots.
You do not need to spend a lot of money to have a good time in Milwaukee. Just make sure you know where to go. There are also popular “free passes” for popular tourist attractions, so look out for those!
Perhaps the best and most popular thing to do in Milwaukee under a strict budget is to enjoy the fine beer gardens. For cheap prices, you can taste great beer and even enjoy great music!
These beer spots offer lots of place to bring your friends and enjoy your time. This is perhaps the best activity for budgeters since a couple of dollars can last you quite a while when going for beer hopping in some very affordable spots.
Lastly, many travelers are looking for places to stay in Milwaukee, WI depending on their budget. New budget hotels in Milwaukee have been recently built. Cheap hotels near or even in downtown Milwaukee can be found at reasonable prices.
Book here the best tours and activities in Milwaukee, downtown
Best Cheap Hotels in Milwaukee
The Muse Gallery Guesthouse **
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Milwaukee **
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Milwaukee Airport, an IHG Hotel **
Sleep Inn & Suites Airport Milwaukee **
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Milwaukee-New Berlin, an IHG Hotel **
3. Where to Stay in Milwaukee for Families
Are you looking for a family-friendly getaway that is fun for you and your kids?
How about an extremely memorable family experience that your kids will talk about for the years to come?
Look no further, there are many fun things to do in Milwaukee with kids!
For some childish fun, check out Bounce Milwaukee. While this massive playground looks perfect for kids on the outside, it is great fun for adults too!
There are jumping castles, arcade games, and the extremely popular laser tag!
Get your laser guns and be ready to have loads of adrenaline!
This is perhaps the most fun thing you can do with a family looking for a change of pace.
For those who love to climb, Bounce Milwaukee also offers rock climbing for people of all ages.
Whenever you are hungry, you can also fuel up with some local favorite cheesy pizza and quesadillas.
For some more family fun, check out the Milwaukee County Zoo.
This massive, fan-favorite zoo packs more than two thousand animals over large acres of land.
You can tour, see beautiful animals, and even take a ride atop a massive 500 ft zip line.
Overall, the zoo is a go-to spot for families for an action-packed day of fun.
If your household includes traveling pets, there are also many great options for pet-friendly hotels in Milwaukee.
Are you wondering where to stay in Milwaukee with your family?
Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Milwaukee
Hilton Milwaukee City Center ****
aloft Hotel Milwaukee Downtown ****
Hyatt Place Milwaukee West ***
Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown ***
Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee Downtown ***
4. Where to Stay in Milwaukee For Couples
If you are looking for fun and romantic date ideas in Milwaukee, there are plenty of things for couples to do who want a very romantic holiday. Even if you plan for an extended stay in Milwaukee, there are plenty of romantic hotels in Milwaukee to maximize your experience.
Milwaukee is perfect for couples because it has something to offer for both the cold winters and hot summers. In the summer, you can expect to take long walks with your beloved one on the soft sand under the sun.
In fact, the beaches in Milwaukee are perfect for couples as it gives you a chance at unrivaled outdoor fun. You can go paddle boating, kayaking, or even fishing. In case you visit Milwaukee in winter, there are plenty of romantic things to do too!
Some beaches are more packed than others, so you have the option of deciding whether you want more action or a peaceful rest under the sun.
In winter, you will most probably be cozily wearing your coats as you walk along Lincoln Memorial Drive. In fact, Milwaukee is also home to cozy dinner spots including Italian cuisines and famous Steakhouses.
Overall, Milwaukee is a great city for a romantic getaway. For a top stay in a top hotel, the Pfister Hotel **** has what couples need. It has sweet jazz music playing, an excellent bistro, and a cozy bar offering a variety of drinks. Book in advance and rekindle your love!
Best Romantic Hotels in Milwaukee
Sheraton Milwaukee Brookfield ****
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Westin Milwaukee ****
Kimpton Journeyman Hotel ****
Saint Kate, The Arts Hotel ****
Hotel Metro ****
5. Best Hotels Near Downtown Milwaukee
Downtown Milwaukee is always packed with action, excitement, and lively people! But most recently, Downtown Milwaukee has undergone some exciting changes with additions including a luxury hotel and a brand new state park.
Furthermore, you will be close to anticipated eateries and a sports arena that has been revolutionized for all comers! If you have not yet visited Downtown Milwaukee, right now is the best time to go.
You can head out shopping for some of the latest clothes, check out popular antique stores, and even grab a bite in downtown’s favorite spots.
For shopping, consider The Avenue MKE for an ultimate shopping experience that is the epitome of downtown shopping malls in Milwaukee.
Popular antique stores such as MOD GEN or Antiques on Pierce give you a unique selection of goodies and ornaments to take back home with you for your family and friends. Finally, take the time to enjoy Milwaukee’s finest delicacies such as Mason Street Grill or Bacchus – A Bartolatta Restaurant. If you want something a little more minimal, check out Zarletti for tasty wines and beverages.
The Milwaukee Marriott Downtown *** is perhaps the best hotel option for travelers looking to stay at hotels and motels in downtown Milwaukee.
Located in East Town, this Eastside Milwaukee hotel is perfectly close to the Wisconsin Center and Lake Michigan.
Best Hotels in Downtown Milwaukee
Budget and Mid-Range Hotels in Downtown Milwaukee
Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown ***
DoubleTree by Hilton Milwaukee Downtown ***
Homewood Suites By Hilton Milwaukee Downtown ***
4 Stars Hotels in Downtown Milwaukee
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Iron Horse Hotel ****
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee ****
Hilton Milwaukee City Center ****
Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown
Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, an IHG Hotel ****
6. Best Bed and Breakfasts in Milwaukee
Whether you’re planning a small holiday or a longer stay, you can find the best Milwaukee bed & breakfast hotels to fit any of your budget requirements.
B&B options are perfect for travelers who just want to have a full Milwaukee experience, without spending too much. On top, the advantage of staying at a B&B is that you get to interact with the locals.
At the same time, a B&B is perfect for those looking for a convenient stay next to major tourist attractions and hot spots in the city.
For an excellent B&B option, check out the luxury Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast *****. The building is sumptuous and it is the perfect place to spend an unforgettable holiday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Best Bed and Breakfast Milwaukee
Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast *****
The Muse Gallery Guesthouse **
Manderley Bed&Breakfast
Dubbel Dutch
7. Best Milwaukee Lakefront hotels
The lakefront in Milwaukee is a great spot to spend your time. It’s for a memorable experience that is also budget-friendly!
The stunning views of Michigan lake, along with the surrounding architecture and buildings, are a must-see if you intend to stay in Milwaukee.
During the day, you can jog or walk along the trails by the lakefront for some fun exercise, or head to the pier to see one of the best lighthouses of Wisconsin.
You can also head to the lake and rent paddle boats, or rent bicycles and ride along the track with your loved ones! Staying by the lakefront is an excellent option for travelers visiting Milwaukee.
The Holiday Inn Milwaukee Riverfront *** is the best option for a stay at the Lakefront. Located along the banks of the Milwaukee River, you will also be close to downtown (a couple of minutes from the main spots).
This hotel offers a variety of rooms including deluxe rooms overlooking the gorgeous river bay. Even the basic rooms are lovely, offering a modern twist to a very relaxing stay.
However, there are plenty of smaller lakes near Milwaukee that are well worth a visit too. As they are smaller sized, the nearby hotels are particularly quaint and cozy. Find below a selection of the best hotels at lakes near Milwaukee.
Best Milwaukee Lakefront Hotels
Holiday Inn Milwaukee Riverfront ***
The Westin Milwaukee ****
The Muse Gallery Guesthouse **
Kinn Guesthouse ***
Best Hotels at Lakes near Milwaukee
The Ingleside Hotel *****
AmericInn by Wyndham Delafield ****
The Delafield Hotel ****
The Abbey Resort ****
The Cove of Lake Geneva ***
8. Best Milwaukee Spa Hotels
Are you looking for a relaxing stay in Milwaukee? Then, make sure that your hotel boasts a great spa!
There are plenty of options to choose from as Milwaukee has some of the best spa resorts in Wisconsin. Whether you are looking for a spa hotel in downtown or in the quiet outskirts of Milwaukee.
Always make sure to arrive at your spa hotel at least half an hour in advance to give you plenty of time to get changed and enjoy the amenities of these top spa hotels in Milwaukee.
Book here the best tours and activities in Milwaukee, downtown
The Hotel Metro **** is located in East town and is home to wonderful spa experiences including a restaurant, huge bathtubs, and a fitness center. You can also enjoy free Wi-Fi service next to a hot sauna where you can release your toxins and have a chat with your friends and family!
The rooms are also lovely, packed with free internet and flat-screen TV’s. Overall, it has everything you need when you need a spa getaway. Just book and enjoy!
Best Milwaukee Spa Hotels
3-star Spa Hotels
Holiday Inn Milwaukee Riverfront ***
Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee Downtown ***
Best Western Plus Milwaukee West ***
Hyatt Place Milwaukee West ***
4-star Spa Hotels
Hotel Metro ****
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Iron Horse Hotel ****
aloft Hotel Milwaukee Downtown ****
9. Best 4-star Superior Hotels in Milwaukee
In Milwaukee, 4-star superior hotels have a distinct advantage over other hotels. Because you can get either a luxury holiday with a lake view or enjoy the vibrant downtown of Milwaukee while staying at a luxurious hotel in the city center.
Many 4-star superior Milwaukee hotels come with indoor pools and some even have an outdoor pool!
Why should you consider 4-star superior hotels in Milwaukee? For one; you will most likely receive 24-hour room service which is perfect for couples or a larger travel group requiring consistent service.
Next, 4-star superior hotels in Milwaukee have excellent facilities such as 24-hour gyms and fitness centers. This allows you to work up a sweat, and make you relaxed and happy during your stay.
Best 4-star superior Hotels in Milwaukee, WI
Saint Kate, The Arts Hotel ****
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Iron Horse Hotel ****
aloft Hotel Milwaukee Downtown ****
10. Best 4-star Hotels in Milwaukee
For those who want a luxury stay, without the cost of a typical 5-star hotel, consider some of the top 4-star hotels in Milwaukee. In Milwaukee, the hotels typically come with very accommodating staff that are very friendly and helpful.
The Iron Horse Hotel **** and Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown **** are excellent choices for a quality stay. The Iron Horse Hotel **** is perfectly located next to major Milwaukee hot spots and is a popular Milwaukee Third Ward hotel.
It is known to have a massive bar, with excellent food for you to enjoy. At the same time, the rooms are cozy and uniquely decorated with pictures of seductive women.
Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown **** is perfect for those looking for comfort, and a peaceful place to rest while enjoying quality service. The Cambria Hotel is located close to the main streets, which is surprising since you barely hear any noise!
Go for this 4-star hotel if you want a quality stay at a historic hotel in Milwaukee that is full of comfort.
Best 4-star Hotels in Milwaukee
Hotel Metro ****
Saint Kate, The Arts Hotel ****
The Pfister Hotel ****
The Iron Horse Hotel ****
aloft Hotel Milwaukee Downtown ****
Cambria Hotel Milwaukee Downtown ****
11. Best Hotels close to Milwaukee airport
For those who travel to Milwaukee just for a layover, it might be best to stay close to the airport. More often than not, this is the best option considering the travelers’ circumstances.
For one, the hotels near the Milwaukee airport offer high-class stays with tons of facilities that are perfectly nearby.
They often offer the best bang for your buck, in terms of distance and services you receive. Perhaps most importantly, hotels near the Milwaukee airport greatly cut down the time you need to travel before jumping on a plane again.
Some great options for a hotel stay near the Milwaukee airport include Home2 Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Airport *** and Best Western Plus Milwaukee Airport Hotel & Conference Center ***. Milwaukee lodging at The Home2 Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Airport *** is perfectly convenient to the airport, and you will be very close to catching famous shows or a Bucks basketball game. The staff in the hotel are friendly and very accommodating, so this is a must!
Another great hotel is Best Western Plus Milwaukee Airport Hotel & Conference Center ***. It is a high standard, clean, and very comfortable hotel to stay in. The breakfast is great, and it’s a great option when looking where to stay in Milwaukee near the airport.
Best Hotels Near Milwaukee Airport
Home2 Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Airport ***
Best Western Plus Milwaukee Airport Hotel & Conference Center***
Crowne Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Airport ***
Hyatt Place Milwaukee Airport ***
Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Airport ***
12. Best Airbnbs in Milwaukee
When looking for the best places to stay in Milwaukee, you may consider renting an apartment or a stylish loft. Indeed, if you’re wondering where to stay in Milwaukee, Airbnb is a great choice!
If you are more of an Airbnb fan, have a look at these top reviewed Airbnbs in Milwaukee Downtown:
- Historic Apartment Milwaukee
- HUGE open concept 3 BR loft in Downtown
- Classic 1BR Apt Walk to Everything
- Stylish Loft ★ Roof Deck
- Penthouse In Heart Of Downtown
- Stunning loft with Southern view
If you’re still looking for somewhere, you can check out my curated list with the most unique Airbnbs in Milwaukee.
Read more about Wisconsin:
Unique Things To Do in Milwaukee
15 Great Wisconsin Vacation Ideas
Fun Things To Do in Wisconsin Dells
15 Cool Weekend Trips in Wisconsin
Best Day Trips from Milwaukee
Things To Do in Milwaukee in Winter
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I am Paulina, a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, you’ll find all the tips to make the most of your holiday. Get ready to enjoy outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling or sailing. Let’s hit the road together!
Steve Morgan
Monday 30th of September 2019
Pauline, nice article on Milwaukee...please mention the Brewhouse Inn and Suites on future mentions as the hotel is one of the most unique and beautiful hotels in Milwaukee. It has been built within the old Pabst Brewery.
Thanks,
Steve
Paulina
Wednesday 27th of January 2021
Hi Steve,
many thanks for your comment! Sounds fab! I will have a look!