Where to Stay
Coming to Milwaukee for the first time is a pleasant surprise for many visitors. They are surprised by the highly accessible airport, the beautiful lakefront and the relative ease in getting around town (the metropolitan area enjoys one of the shortest commute times in the nation). That’s not to say Milwaukee is worry-free. Like any city, there are things you will need to know for your first trip to Milwaukee, including the availability of short-term accommodations that you can use as a “home base” during your stay. There are plenty of hotels and extended-stay options in the five-county area, but because the region is a popular tourist destination, rooms can be difficult to find on short notice, especially in the summer.
Hotel Locations
Choosing a hotel near where you will work or live will cut down on your travel time and give you more time to enjoy the region while you’re here. While hotels are scattered throughout the metropolitan area, they tend to be congregated in four general areas:
- Downtown Milwaukee, which is centrally located for exploring downtown Milwaukee and North Shore communities
- General Mitchell International Airport, which is close to South Shore communities, including Oak Creek, Franklin and Racine
- Highway 100 and I-94, which is located in the center of the metropolitan area and ideal for exploring Wauwatosa, Brookfield and Elm Grove
- Moorland Road and I-94, which provides a good base for visiting western Waukesha communities, including Pewaukee and the Lake Country
Use the Communities section of Discover Milwaukee to identify which of these areas is best for you based on where you think you would like to live.
Accommodations
Selecting a temporary home can be challenging because the area has so much to offer. Milwaukee has several independent hotels and franchise properties located throughout the metropolitan area. These include traditional, single-room hotels and all-suite or extended-stay hotels, which cater to people who need a room for several nights or longer. Hotel accommodations often include such amenities as room service, car portering, valet, linen and maid service. Extended-stay properties typically have separate sleeping and living areas, as well as fully equipped kitchens for making meals. These properties are ideal for business people who need the extra room to prepare presentations and meet with colleagues, or for those who want “home-away-from-home” ambience while they search for a more permanent residence. Extended-stay hotels typically offer wi-fi, laundry facilities and fitness centers.
Where to Stay in Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers a wide range of accommodations—from full-service downtown hotels to flexible, apartment-style stays. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, here are some popular options to consider:
Top Hotels in Milwaukee
- The Pfister Hotel
A historic luxury hotel in downtown Milwaukee known for its lake views, art collection, and upscale amenities
🔗 https://www.thepfisterhotel.com - Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
A modern, arts-focused hotel with a unique creative atmosphere in the heart of downtown
🔗 https://www.saintkatearts.com - Hilton Milwaukee City Center
A large, centrally located hotel connected to the convention center—great for events and business travel
🔗 https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mkemhhh-hilton-milwaukee-city-center - Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
Located downtown with easy access to major attractions and event spaces
🔗 https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/wisconsin/hyatt-regency-milwaukee/mkerm - Kimpton Journeyman Hotel
A boutique hotel in the Historic Third Ward, known for its rooftop bar and walkable location
🔗 https://www.journeymanhotel.com - The Trade Hotel
A newer hotel near Fiserv Forum, ideal for sports fans and entertainment seekers
🔗 https://www.thetradehotel.com
Alternative Stay Options
If you’re looking for something more flexible or home-like, there are also great alternatives to traditional hotels:
- Airbnb
Offers short-term rentals ranging from private rooms to full homes across the Milwaukee area
🔗 Browse Milwaukee stays on Airbnb - Flexhome
A local option for furnished apartments and extended stays, with modern units across Milwaukee
🔗 View Flexhome listings
Whether you prefer a full-service hotel or a more residential-style stay, Milwaukee has plenty of options to fit your needs.

