MILWAUKEE, WI – Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, the award-winning destination owned and managed by Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, proudly announces the arrival of its fourth Artist in Residence, Julia Bradfish, an abstract oil painter from Wausau, Wisconsin.

Bradfish has officially begun her year-long residency at Saint Kate, joining a prestigious program that provides Midwest-based artists with a dedicated studio space onsite. This unique setting provides artists with the opportunity to create new work while engaging with hotel guests and contributing to Saint Kate’s vibrant, ongoing celebration of the arts.

Bradfish’s studio is open to the public, offering visitors the chance to view her evolving work and discuss her artistic process. In addition to regular studio hours, she will participate in Milwaukee’s Fall Gallery Night on October 17, welcoming guests to explore her practice in a more dynamic setting.

Exploring the Tension Between Intuition and Intention

Bradfish’s creative process begins not on canvas, but with a collage created from found materials like magazine and newspaper clippings. This initial stage is intuitive, allowing disparate elements to converge into cohesive visual explorations of form, color, and texture.

Yet her transition from collage to canvas is far from literal. Rather than reproducing these compositions, Bradfish reinterprets them through oil painting, a medium she favors for its rich texture, slow-drying flexibility, and ability to build complex, layered surfaces. Her paintings explore the dynamic interplay between control and spontaneity, and between the accidental and the deliberate. Each brushstroke becomes both a continuation and a transformation of the raw fragments beneath it.

“At its core, my work is about finding a balance between control and accident,” Bradfish shares. “I look forward to the connections made during my time at Saint Kate, and how each conversation, each fragment of experience will layer into my practice, just as each torn piece in a collage becomes part of a larger visual environment.”

With expanded studio space, Bradfish will also be working at a larger scale than ever before, a shift she eagerly embraces.

“The space here invites me to stretch physically and creatively,” she says. “I’m excited to see how that freedom influences my work.”

Meet the Artist

Guests and visitors are invited to visit Bradfish during her open studio hours:

• Thursdays: 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Fridays: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Sundays: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Beginning in October, Bradfish will also host “AIR Time: Art & Studio Tours” on Saturday evenings. These guided experiences will explore Saint Kate’s permanent collection, rotating exhibitions, and the Artist in Residence studio.

Bradfish earned her BFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and her work has been exhibited nationally, including at the Trout Museum of Art (Appleton, WI), Greenpoint Open Studios (Brooklyn, NY), and the Door County Contemporary Art Fair (Fish Creek, WI). In addition to her studio practice, she serves as a Fundraising and Creative Programs Associate for a nonprofit focused on uplifting the community through social engagement and the arts.

To learn more or view upcoming events, please visit the Saint Kate events calendar.

About Saint Kate’s Artist in Residence Program

Saint Kate’s Artist in Residence program offers Midwest-based artists working in any art form or medium a year-long residency inside the hotel’s studio to devote time to their practice while gathering inspiration from Saint Kate’s guests. Throughout the residency, guests are invited to visit the Artist in Residence Studio to interact directly with the artists and witness their art evolve over time. The Artists in Residence also host events, talks and tours where guests can learn more about their art form and unique process. During each residency, the Artist in Residence will create a legacy piece that will become part of Saint Kate’s permanent art collection. To learn more about the first-of-its-kind Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel and its extensive art programming, please visit saintkatearts.com.

About Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

Recognized as one of Milwaukee’s most esteemed hotels with an elite award repertoire, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is among the first hotels in the nation to broadly celebrate the arts in their many forms, from painting and sculpture to music, poetry and performing arts. With a prime location in The Milwaukee Theater District and within walking distance of notable arts and entertainment attractions, the Third Ward and Fiserv Forum, Saint Kate serves as a creative hub for the city offering intimate and immersive arts experiences. Its blend of exceptional hospitality and unmatched dedication to the arts serves as a platform for exploration, connection and expression. For more information or to book reservations, please visit: https://www.saintkatearts.com and follow the property on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts 

Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse^® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Historic guest rooms completely reimagined with the latest amenities as part of $42 million renovation

Hilton Milwaukee, the city’s largest hotel, announced today that its historic guest room renovations are complete and open for bookings. The completely revitalized and restyled guest rooms marry the hotel’s 1920s aesthetics with today’s modern style and luxuries. The next phase of the renovation, which began last month, will transform the hotel’s 34,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, as well as its exquisite lobby and bar.

“As Milwaukee’s premier meeting and convention hotel, we are thrilled to unveil our newly renovated guest rooms at Hilton Milwaukee,” said Jeff Stewart, general manager of Hilton Milwaukee. “The guest rooms reflect the hotel’s rich Art Deco history while offering the latest amenities for today’s traveler. Guests will enjoy the updated look and fine furnishings during their stay, as the rooms become a respite for them after attending the latest convention or exploring the city.”

The restyled guest rooms feature a warm color palette with soft wood and gold accents. The walls feature custom draperies and vibrant artwork, to complement the custom-designed carpet. The rooms also include new furnishings and lighting to highlight the symmetry found throughout the Art Deco hotel. Modern amenities were included in the renovation, like motion sensor lighting and steamers. Guest room bathrooms were completely remodeled to include newly tiled showers, marble countertops and luxurious finishes, like Wisconsin-based Kohler Co. fixtures and mirrors with built-in lighting. In addition to the aesthetic improvements, all guest rooms have updated heating and air conditioning systems.

Revitalized Meeting & Event Spaces

Work has begun on the next phase of the renovation and includes the true showstoppers of the hotel: Hilton Milwaukee’s three ballrooms, pre-function spaces and meeting rooms. Original to the hotel, the spaces hold so much of Milwaukee’s history and include many original elements like crystal chandeliers, antique mirrors, gold-leafed adornments and bright, silver accents. All will be carefully refurbished as they continue to shine for decades to come.

In addition to giving new life to its historic elements, Hilton Milwaukee’s event and meeting spaces will also feature entirely new carpeting, draperies and wall coverings as well as updated lighting controls and new digital signage throughout.

Refreshed Historic Lobby and Bar

Hilton Milwaukee’s grand two-story lobby welcomes guests into the Art Deco hotel with its original crystal chandeliers, marble pillars and floors, geometric motifs and rich woodwork. The lobby will be refreshed to a warm neutral color palette to allow these elements to pop. This will extend to the original lobby bar, now called The Monarch Lounge. In this grand room, custom carpeting with intertwining blues and browns will complement the historic woodwork while spotlighting original features like the stone and metal fireplace and crystal chandeliers.

For more information or to make a reservation at Hilton Milwaukee, please visit hiltonmilwaukee.com.

About Hilton Milwaukee

Originally built in 1928, the Hilton Milwaukee is an Art Deco masterpiece and one of the city’s finest hotels. In 2011, it became a member of Historic Hotels of America. Directly connected to the Baird Center, the hotel is Milwaukee’s convention headquarters hotel of choice welcoming thousands of visitors from across the globe. Hilton Milwaukee offers the most meeting and event space of any hotel in the city—more than 34,000 square feet—including three ballrooms and 18 well-appointed meeting rooms of various sizes. With 554 renovated guest rooms, Hilton Milwaukee can accommodate nearly any group. Its central location means guests are just moments away from the city’s Theater District, the lakefront and Summerfest grounds, Fiserv Forum, and the Historic Third Ward. The hotel also includes two on-site restaurants, Milwaukee ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. For more information on the hotel, visit HiltonMilwaukee.com, find the hotel on Facebook or Instagram (@HiltonMilwaukee).

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts

Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

The new golf course will offer a playful atmosphere suitable for new and experienced players

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, one of the premier golf resorts in the Midwest, has announced the upcoming addition of its new short-course golf course, Wee Nip, which is set to welcome players in the 2026 season. A significant addition to the resort’s extensive golf offerings, the new course is designed to cater to golfers of all skill levels and groups, providing a fun, challenging and engaging environment for seasoned players and novice golfers.

The term “wee nip” derives from the Scottish phrase that means a small drink or a quick sip, reflecting the playful spirit of the course. The new course is intended to offer a relaxed golfing experience, where players can enjoy a friendly round without the pressures of a traditional long course. It also offers seasoned golfers a fun opportunity to embrace creativity, challenge, and strategy.

Designed by Matt Dusenberry with the award-winning Dusenberry Design, Wee Nip will feature 10 holes averaging around 90 yards with rounds expected to take approximately 90 minutes to complete. The course will also include music speakers with a viewing area offering food and beverage service with to-go options.

“Grand Geneva’s golf courses are among the best in Wisconsin, and Wee Nip further enhances the resort’s reputation as an ideal golf getaway,” shared Skip Harless, Managing Director of Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. “Our existing golf courses already appeal to golfers of all skill levels, but Wee Nip encourages casual play, making it perfect for novice golfers and players of all ages. The course fosters creativity for advanced golfers, providing opportunities to enhance their skills and experiment with different swings and strategies. It will also be an exciting new experience for our many corporate, incentive, association and social events.”

While the new short course is planned to open in spring 2026, the resort will unveil its new golf practice facility in June of this year. The new facility features a short game area with multiple putting, chipping, pitching and bunker practice greens. Situated on Grand Geneva’s former airport area, the new practice area also offers a variety of target greens with distances ranging from 50 to 360 yards.

Grand Geneva’s golf courses are scheduled to open in late March 2025, weather permitting. The resort is currently home to two championship golf courses: The Brute and The Highlands, both of which have earned accolades for their stunning landscapes and challenging layouts.

The Brute, a mid-century modern gem, is a par-72 course. At over 7,000 yards, it is known as one of the most challenging layouts in the Midwest with its 68 bunkers and huge rolling greens. The Highlands, a Scottish-inspired, links-style course, was originally designed by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus, and transformed in 1996 by Bob Cupp.

The 2025 season also introduces new programming and offerings through the resort’s Golf Academy instruction program, which provides high-quality instruction for golfers of all skill levels and features state-of-the-art equipment, experienced PGA professionals and personalized programs. Grand Geneva is also known for its exceptional private golf lessons and group outing programming and packages.

“Golf continues to gain popularity, especially among younger generations and diverse demographics,” said Ryan Brown, Director of Golf & Ski at Grand Geneva. “The addition of Wee Nip reinforces Grand Geneva’s commitment to enhancing the guest experience and supporting the growth of golf. With a variety of golf clinics, programs for all skill levels, championship courses, and an upcoming new short course, Grand Geneva is one of the best destinations for both seasoned golfers and newcomers to the sport.”

To learn more about golf at Grand Geneva and its new programs, events, and packages, visit grandgeneva.com/golf.

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About Grand Geneva® Resort & Spa

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is an award-winning, AAA Four-Diamond all-seasons resort set on 1,300 acres in the legendary southeastern Wisconsin community of Lake Geneva. Located 90 minutes from Chicago and 50 minutes from Milwaukee, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa features 358 guest accommodations, including deluxe rooms and suites, along with 29 villas. On site, guests can enjoy the WELL Spa + Salon; two championship 18-hole golf courses; The Mountain Top, a ski and snowboard facility; 62,000-square-feet of meeting and convention space and three restaurants. Also on the resort’s grounds is the Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark, featuring 225 guest suites and 50,000 square feet of year-round, indoor/outdoor waterpark excitement, bringing the total number of rooms on the Grand Geneva campus to 612. For more information, please visit www.grandgeneva.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts

Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Marcus Corporation

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its lodging division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 985 screens at 78 locations in 17 states under the Marcus Theatres, Movie Tavern® by Marcus and BistroPlex® brands. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com

The Pfister Hotel, a historic AAA Four Diamond hotel owned and managed by Marcus^® Hotels & Resorts, announced today Sasha Kinens as its 16th Artist in Residence. Kinens, a Thiensville, Wisconsin-based figurative oil painter, begins her year-long residency in the hotel’s lobby-level artist studio this month. She succeeds the previous Artist in Residence, and fiber artist, Heidi Parkes.

“The Pfister has had a long devotion to the arts with its award-winning Artist in Residence program making a profound impression on our guests and the Milwaukee community,” said Brandon Drusch, managing director of The Pfister Hotel. “We are excited Sasha will be joining us as our 16th Artist in Residence. Guests will enjoy watching her pieces come to life as they blend historical influences with her twenty-first century outlook.”

Inspired by the pre-Raphaelites and Symbolists and informed by classical realism, Kinens uses layers of oil glazing to paint models in landscape scenes with the subject oftentimes directly connecting with the viewer. The paintings capture a thought-provoking moment and evoke a timelessness in modern society. Guests will be invited into Kinens’ studio at The Pfister to gain a better understanding of her process and see each piece develop throughout her residency. She also plans to host immersive art events and experiences throughout her residency for locals and guests alike. Kinens studied with artists James Prohl and Richard Serrin and pursued art education at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. Her pieces have been exhibited in galleries across the United States and in Italy. In addition to her practice, Kinens shares her passion for art through teaching art therapy at Tiny Bird Art Studio in Thiensville.

“I am thrilled to be The Pfister’s 16th Artist in Residence and look forward to working in such an iconic setting that has long embraced the arts,” said Kinens. “Those who appreciate the charm of The Pfister Hotel will see a similar allure in my paintings, pulling them into history only to reveal a new narrative through the layers of oil paint.”

The Pfister Hotel’s Artist in Residence program hosts emerging and mid-career artists from Milwaukee and beyond in its lobby-level artist studio. For an entire year, the artists are placed at the forefront of Milwaukee’s growing art scene, sharing their work with the hotel’s guests and locals visiting the Pfister. Now in its 16th year, the program has celebrated many diverse art forms, including fashion design, photography, painting and more. Through one-on-one visits, art receptions, gallery nights, tours and events, guests and visitors are invited to engage in each Artist in Residence’s creative process as they watch the evolution of their work firsthand. At the end of their residency, the Artist in Residence leaves behind a legacy piece that will go on permanent display at The Pfister Hotel, highlighting the mark they made on the hotel.

For more information about Kinens and her work, please visit: sashakinens.com.

For more information on The Pfister Hotel’s Artist in Residence program, please visit: thepfisterhotel.com/artist-in-residence.

To learn more about Marcus Hotels & Resorts and its properties, please visit: marcushotels.com.

About The Pfister’s Artist in Residence Program

The Pfister Hotel’s Artist in Residence program features a working art studio and gallery that is open to hotel guests and visitors. The program encourages the public to interact with the artist and witness the evolution of their art firsthand. Over the years, The Pfister has received national and international attention for its Artist in Residence program. Since 2009, the hotel has been named a member of the Alliance of Artist Communities, an international association of artists’ communities and residencies featuring a diverse field of more than 1,000 programs worldwide.

The program’s past artist include: Heidi Parkes (2024); Nicole Acosta (2023); Christopher T Wood (2022-2023); Nykoli Koslow (2020-2022); Rosy Petri (2019-2020); Stephanie Schultz (2018-2019); Margaret Muza (2017-2018); Pamela Anderson (2016-2017); Todd Mrozinski (2015-2016; Niki Johnson (2014-2015); Stephanie Barenz (2013-2014); Timothy Westbrook (2012-2013); Shelby Keefe (2011-2012); Katie Musolff (2010-2011); and Reginald Baylor (2009-2010).

About The Pfister Hotel 
Celebrating over 130 years, The Pfister Hotel is one of the oldest and most prestigious hotels in the Midwest and downtown Milwaukee. Originally opened in 1893 by businessman Guido Pfister, it was the most lavish hotel of its time. Today, The Pfister Hotel continues its tradition of gracious service and impeccable style and has been recognized by AAA as a Four Diamond property for over 45 consecutive years. The hotel is also consistently recognized by top national industry and travel publications and associations, such as Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Reader’s Choice Awards as a Top Hotel in the Midwest. This exceptional property is a member of two distinguished hotel organizations, Historic Hotels of America, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. For more information, please visit thepfisterhotel.com and follow the hotel on Facebook and Instagram (@thepfisterhotel).

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts, and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time^® Pub & Grill and SafeHouse^® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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Debuts locally sourced, Midwest-inspired offerings for the new year

The Audrey Kitchen + Bar, Hilton Madison Monona Terrace’s signature restaurant, has unveiled a new dinner menu for the new year. Featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and Midwest-inspired flavors, the new menu celebrates regional producers with quintessential shareable favorites, reimagined comfort classics, and handcrafted cocktails, offering diners a hearty taste of Midwestern hospitality.

Nestled within the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace, The Audrey Kitchen + Bar pays homage to Audrey Munson, America’s first supermodel, whose iconic golden likeness stands atop Wisconsin’s Capitol dome overlooking downtown Madison.

“At The Audrey Kitchen + Bar, we are proud to introduce a menu that celebrates the flavors of our region by featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative culinary techniques,” said Christopher Running, executive chef at Hilton Madison Monona Terrace. “Every dish is crafted to highlight the essence of the Midwest while providing guests with an elevated dining experience. We invite everyone to explore and enjoy some of the best of what our region has to offer.”

The Audrey Kitchen + Bar is partnering with notable Midwest producers for its ingredients, including Carr Valley Cheese, Johnsonville, Meats by Linz, Nueske’s, New Glarus Brewing Company and Milwaukee Pretzel Company, among others.

The new dinner menu includes an array of shareable starters, classic comfort foods, and handcrafted cocktails:

• Shareable Plates: Locally inspired bites, including golden, deep-fried cheese curds from Carr Valley Cheese, meats and cheeses featuring Carr Valley Cheese and savory Johnsonville sausages, the smoky and sweet BBQ Glazed Bacon (Meats by Linz), and Bavarian Pretzel Bites (Milwaukee Pretzel Company) served warm with a creamy Spotted Cow Beer Cheese made with New Glarus Brewing Company’s beloved brew.
• Comfort Classics: Favorites reimagined with Midwest flair, such as the rich and flavorful Madtown Mac crafted with Spotted Cow Beer Cheese, Carr Valley cheese curds, all complimented with a bold Nueske’s jalapeño cheddar brat. Flavors of Wisconsin are highlighted in the Door County Chicken with a sweet and tangy cherry gastrique sauce inspired by Door County cherries. The new dinner menu also features premium cuts of meat from Meats by Linz, including Berkshire Pork Chop, Ribeye, and Steak Frites.
• Handcrafted cocktails: Winter cocktails include The Distrito Federal, which combines Casamigos tequila, sweet vermouth, Luxardo cherries, and orange bitters for a rich, sophisticated sip. For a fruity twist, the Raspberry Gimlet blends Aviation Gin with Oasis raspberry purée and lime juice, and coffee lovers will appreciate the indulgent Chai Espresso Martini, featuring vodka, Kahlua, fresh espresso, half & half, and chai honey syrup, finished with a cinnamon garnish.

For more information on The Audrey Kitchen + Bar, its menu and exclusive guest experiences, please visit www.theaudreykitchenandbar.com.

About Hilton Madison Monona Terrace

Hilton Madison Monona Terrace is located on the shimmering shores of Lake Monona, one block from the state capitol building and in the heart of Madison’s dining, shopping, entertainment, art and theatre districts. The property is connected to the Monona Terrace Convention Center, making it the premier location for business meetings and social gatherings. The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace has been named the best hotel by Madison Magazine and received the Planners Choice Award from Meeting News, among other recognitions. For more information, visit www.hiltonmadison.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts

Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About The Marcus Corporation

Headquartered in Milwaukee, The Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its lodging division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres^®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 993 screens at 79 locations in 17 states under the Marcus Theatres, Movie Tavern® by Marcus and BistroPlex® brands. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.

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The Pfister Hotel and Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel among the top hotels in the Midwest

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa recognized as a top resort in the Midwest

 Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh honored as a top hotel in the Mid-Atlantic 

MILWAUKEE, October 2, 2024 – Marcus^® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), announced today that four of its owned and/or managed properties have been recognized as top hotels and resorts by Condé Nast Traveler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.

The Pfister Hotel, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh and Grand Geneva Resort & Spa each earned the distinction as a top hotel or resort by readers of Condé Nast Traveler.

“We are incredibly grateful to the readers of Condé Nast Traveler for once again recognizing our hotels and resorts as some of the best in the country,” said Michael Evans, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “This recognition, coming directly from those we serve, is a true testament to the dedication of our associates and their commitment to offering our guests memorable experiences delivered with exceptional hospitality.”

The Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties that were recognized by Condé Nast Traveler readers as top hotels and resorts in their respective categories are:

• The Pfister Hotel was honored as the No. 8 top hotel in the Midwest, marking the eighth consecutive year it has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler. The Pfister Hotel is a symbol of prestige, history and timeless excellence in Milwaukee, which was also recognized as the No. 3 Best Big U.S. City in the same Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee is in the final phases of a $20 million reinvestment, with finishing touches continuing in the hotel’s first floor public spaces. The hotel recently completed renovations of its historic guest rooms, which followed the full revitalization of The Pfister’s ballrooms and meeting and event spaces, which were completed in September 2023.
• Also located in Milwaukee, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is one of the country’s most immersive and dynamic lifestyle hotels. With its numerous gallery and exhibition spaces, nightly live music, artistic events, and distinctive culinary experiences, it offers guests a truly unique stay. Since its opening in 2019, Saint Kate has consistently earned recognition as a top hotel in the Midwest by Condé Nast Traveler readers, securing the No. 11 spot on this year’s list.
• Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, an all-seasons premier resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, was recognized as the No. 2 top resort in the Midwest. This ideal vacation destination is situated on 1,300 acres in the beautiful woodlands of Lake Geneva and features two championship golf courses, a ski hill, full-service WELL Spa & Salon, and a wide array of fine dining options.
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh was recognized as the No. 2 top hotel in the Mid-Atlantic. Located in the 120-year-old historic James H. Reed building in the center of downtown Pittsburgh, the hotel features spacious guestrooms with contemporary design and local touches connecting guests to the “Steel City.”

The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry and are commonly known as “the best of the best of travel.” The 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards are published on Condé Nast Traveler’s website and celebrated in the November issue.

To learn more about Marcus Hotels & Resorts and its properties, please visit www.marcushotels.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts, and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time^® Pub & Grill and SafeHouse^® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About The Marcus Corporation

Headquartered in Milwaukee, The Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its lodging division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres^®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 993 screens at 79 locations in 17 states under the Marcus Theatres, Movie Tavern^® by Marcus and BistroPlex^® brands. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.

Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, an award-winning arts hotel owned and managed by Marcus^® Hotels & Resorts, today announced Megan Woodard Johnson, a mixed-media abstract artist from West Bend, Wis., as its newest Artist in Residence.

The year-long residency program for Midwest-based artists provides working space in the hotel’s studio, allowing artists to continue creating while also interacting with hotel guests. Johnson is Saint Kate’s third Artist in Residence. The public is invited to join Saint Kate in welcoming Johnson during Fall Gallery Night on Friday, Oct. 18. Her artwork will be on display in Saint Kate’s Artist in Residence studio where she will be available to discuss her art, her creative process, and her vision for the Artist in Residence program.

“Saint Kate is known for creating unique connections with everyone who visits,” said Linda Marcus, one of Saint Kate’s visionaries and a nationally recognized multidisciplinary artist, designer, and storyteller. “By selecting Megan as Saint Kate’s third Artist in Residence, we’ve found someone who deeply values connection and shared experiences. Her work invites people to engage, connect, and leave their own imprint. Both guests and locals will have the chance to witness Megan’s abstract creations unfold in real time, offering a deeper understanding of her art and the profound impact of personal connection.”

Megan Woodard Johnson’s Upcoming Residency at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

Johnson’s art is inspired by how accumulated everyday experiences create personal histories. Her abstract work explores memory and nostalgia and is infused with the enjoyment found in discovering what are often shared common memories with apparent strangers.

“I’m excited to spend a year at Saint Kate having conversations, sharing experiences with guests and visitors, and discovering how their experiences and anecdotes show up in my work,” said Johnson. “Saint Kate is known for creating immersive opportunities to connect people to each other and the arts, in all its forms. This is a perfect opportunity, as I’m equally inspired by my own experiences and by discovering how much we all tend to have in common. A short conversation with a ‘stranger’ can quickly reveal shared core memories, forging an immediate, happy bond.”

By combining vintage paper ephemera – items that were intended to be discarded after use such as ticket stubs, postcards and newspapers, paint, various drawing media, and found objects – Johnson creates heavily layered mixed media paintings with bold color, strong composition, and rich detail. Johnson’s work evokes joy, sparks curiosity, and encourages close inspection. Her residency will be spent engaging with visitors in the studio, gathering more and more points of connection, and letting the work she creates tell the stories she collects.

Johnson has been an artist since she could hold a crayon and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and printmaking from Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, in 1996. Her work hangs in private and corporate collections across and beyond the United States and is represented in multiple U.S. galleries. She has shown in numerous juried group and solo exhibitions, taught workshops, and completed multiple artist residencies. Johnson has also curated exhibitions and built connections with artists around the globe by offering courses and small-group mentorships.

Guests are invited to meet Johnson in her studio or during her AIR Time: Art & Studio Tour on Saturdays at 5 p.m., beginning in October, where they can tour the hotel’s permanent art collection, feature exhibitions and the residency’s space. In addition to the AIR Time: Art & Studio Tours, guests and local visitors can visit Johnson’s studio during the following days and hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays (10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.), Fridays (noon – 7 p.m.), Saturdays (10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.) and alternating Sundays (10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.). For more information on opportunities to visit and engage with Johnson, please visit Saint Kate’s events calendar.

About Saint Kate’s Artist in Residence Program

Saint Kate’s Artist in Residence program offers Midwest-based artists working in any art form or medium a year-long residency inside the hotel’s studio to devote time to their practice while gathering inspiration from Saint Kate’s guests. Throughout the residency, guests are invited to visit the Artist in Residence studio to interact directly with the artist and witness their art evolve over time. The Artist in Residence also hosts events, talks and tours where guests can learn more about their artform and unique process. During the residency, the Artist in Residence will create a legacy piece that will become part of Saint Kate’s permanent art collection. To learn more about the first-of-its-kind Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel and its extensive art programming, please visit: www.saintkatearts.com.

About Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

Recognized as one of Milwaukee’s most esteemed hotels with an elite award repertoire, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is among the first hotels in the nation to broadly celebrate the arts in its many forms – from painting and sculpture to music, poetry and performing arts. With a prime location in the city’s Theater District and within walking distance of notable arts and entertainment attractions, the Third Ward and Fiserv Forum, Saint Kate serves as a creative hub for the city offering intimate and immersive arts experiences. Its blend of exceptional hospitality and unmatched dedication to the arts serves as a platform for exploration, connection and expression. For more information or to book reservations, please visit: https://www.saintkatearts.com and follow the property on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 16 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S., including Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill, ARIA Restaurant, Milwaukee ChopHouse, Miller Time^® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse^® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.