Marcus Hotels Press > Press Coverage

02.21.19

The Pfister Named a Top Destination for 2019 by TripSavvy

In 2019, TripSavvy named Milwaukee the best destination for romance. Of all the hotels in the city, The Pfister Hotel was called out as the most romantic place to stay in the city.

Read the full list of top 2019 destinations on TripSavvy.

10.26.18

Make it a holiday to remember at the Pfister Hotel, Hilton Milwaukee and Intercontinental Milwaukee

Plus, the three “must do” events at Marcus Hotels & Resorts this holiday season

MILWAUKEE, October 23, 2018… Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive feasts will soon arrive at the AAA Four-Diamond Pfister Hotel, AAA Four-Diamond Hilton Milwaukee City Center and InterContinental Milwaukee, bringing treasured holiday traditions back to town. Locals and visitors alike can look for a mix of classic holiday celebrations, as well as new, fun and energizing occasions to toast to the holiday season!

Top Three “Must Do” Holiday Events to Make 2018 a Holiday to Remember:

  • The Pfister Hotel’s Annual Tree Lighting Event – Friday, November 23, 2018 from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. (official lighting at 5:30 p.m.)
    • The Pfister Hotel is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2018, and its annual tree lighting ceremony is one of Milwaukee’s most celebrated and anticipated traditions. Featuring an 18-foot, LED-lighted holiday tree, the festive event includes complimentary holiday treats, music, hot cocoa and more. Parents are invited to bring their cameras, as Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving at 5:20 p.m. on a Milwaukee Fire Department fire truck to greet guests and pose for photos. Guests are encouraged to write letters to Santa and drop them in Santa’s special mailbox, which he will take back with him to the North Pole. While the actual tree lighting ceremony takes place at 5:30 p.m., the other activities extend to 6:30 p.m. To support those in need during the holiday season, The Pfister Hotel will collect food for Hunger Task Force and encourages guests to bring non-perishable food items. This event is free and open to the public. Enjoy complimentary parking with any purchase.
  • Pfister Holiday Marketplace – Saturday and Sunday, December 8 and 9, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    • Discover and connect with local artists and experience holiday fun and art in many forms. Hosted by talented artist Renee Bebeau, guests will enjoy festive music and fine art while shopping for the perfect gift for family and friends. Located on The Pfister Mezzanine, entry into the marketplace is free.
  • Holiday Trivia at Monarch Lounge – December 5 and December 19, 2018 | Trivia begins at 6:30 p.m.
    • Put your holiday pop culture and history knowledge to the test during holiday trivia nights at Monarch Lounge in the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Competitors will enjoy specialty holiday cocktails, as well as friendly competition for fun prizes and gift cards. If teams wear holiday-themed attire, they receive five bonus points!

In addition to these can’t-miss events, enjoy a wide variety of holiday dinners and brunches at all three Milwaukee Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties:

125 Years of Holiday Spirit at The Pfister

Milwaukee’s treasured 125-year-old hotel is pleased to present a number of memorable experiences and events to celebrate the spirit of the season. For more information on The Pfister’s holiday festivities, visit: www.thepfisterhotel.com/holidays.

Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch at The Pfister

Thursday, November 22 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The breathtaking atmosphere of The Pfister Hotel’s ballroom provides the perfect destination for a cherished Thanksgiving.  In a comfortable yet elegant setting, The Pfister Hotel’s beloved brunch provides ample holiday cheer. There is much to be thankful for, from appetizers and entrées, to side dishes and desserts – plus all the traditional trimmings.  Extend the holiday experience and stay the night Wednesday, November 21 or Thursday, November 22. Rates start at $109 per night, plus tax with the purchase of brunch.  For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.  Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3-10 years-old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included).  Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

 Breakfast with Santa

Saturdays and Sundays, December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23, 2018 | Two seatings will be available each date – 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa is a Pfister tradition that creates lifelong memories. Guests have the opportunity to share a jolly, plated breakfast with Santa and his elves in The Pfister’s festive ballroom. Smaller seatings for each date will ensure that everyone has an exceptional experience. In addition to photos with Santa, which are highly encouraged, every child will receive a special gift and will be able to write letters to Santa, while enjoying making other special holiday crafts. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $48 Adults, $30 Children 3-10 years old, 2 and under free. Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

Mason Street Grill Christmas Carol Experience

Saturday, December 8 and 15, 2018 | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Reserve your spot for a wonderful winter’s evening, enjoying dinner at Mason Street Grill followed by A Christmas Carol presented by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Complimentary parking in The Pfister structure and transportation to the show will be provided. A three-course prix-fixe menu will be available starting at 5:00 p.m. Guests can then take The Pfister’s shuttle to the Pabst Theater for the 7:30 p.m. showtime of A Christmas Carol. Last shuttle will leave at 7:00 p.m. For reservations, call 414.298.3131. Pricing: $125 per person; preferred orchestra seating for the show. (Tax and gratuity not included.)

Christmas Celebration Brunch

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Christmas brunch at The Pfister begins with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary followed by a spectacular buffet featuring a delicious assortment of appetizers, salads, entrées and decadent desserts in the hotel’s elegant main ballroom. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3 – 10 years old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included). Credit card guarantee is required, and a 48-hour cancellation notice is required or full amount will be charged.

Special Holiday Room Promotions:

To truly enjoy a magical Pfister holiday experience, consider staying overnight and waking up on Christmas morning in luxury! On December 24 or 25, 2018, overnight rates start at $109 per night, plus tax, with the purchase of brunch. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.

 

Holiday Traditions at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.hiltonmilwaukee.com/holiday. 

Wine Wednesdays at Milwaukee ChopHouse

Every Wednesday in December | Normal operating hours

Enjoy 50 percent-off bottles under $100 and 25 percent-off bottles $100 and up every Wednesday in December. 

Miller Time Pub & Grill Sweater Drive

Friday, December 7 to Sunday, December 9, 2018 | Normal operating hours

Miller Time Pub & Grill patrons can donate a lightly used or brand-new sweater to those in need this holiday season. For every sweater donated, patrons will receive a free Miller beer on tap (up to five).

Nightmare Before Christmas Party at Miller Time Pub & Grill

Friday, December 14, 2018 | 6:00 p.m. to close

Miller Time Pub & Grill celebrates the spookier side of Christmas during a “Nightmare Before Christmas” party. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the classic movie on TVs throughout the pub, while enjoying themed cocktails. Costumes are highly encouraged.

 Celebrating the Holidays in Style at the InterContinental Milwaukee

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.intercontinentalmilwaukee.com/holiday.

Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner at Kil@Wat

Thursday, November 22 | Brunch from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Dinner from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Feast with family and friends at Kil@Wat’s incredible Thanksgiving brunch or four-course dinner. Bringing together traditional favorites and adventurous new creations, this will be a Thanksgiving to remember.  For reservations: Call 414.291.4793. Cost: $49 per person; $69 with wine pairings.

 Holiday Lights Kick-Off

Thursday, November 15 | 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The holiday season starts with the annual downtown Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival. Following the tree lighting in Red Arrow Park, stop by and warm up with free hot cocoa and a selection of our house-made holiday cookies. Complimentary Hot Cocoa will be provided.

Glühwein & Sweets Special at CLEAR

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4 p.m. – Close

Enjoy the hotel’s rustic recipe of Glühwein – a classic mulled beverage – and sample delectable desserts to satisfy your holiday sweet tooth.  Pricing: $7/glass for mulled wine and $10 for the dessert sampler.

 Christmas Eve Dinner at Kil@Wat

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Bring the family to Kil@Wat for a fantastic, five-course holiday feast on Christmas Eve. To add to the experience, the meal can be upgraded with a full wine pairing menu. For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: $69 per person or $94 with wine pairings.

Christmas Day Brunch at Kil@Wat

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Spend time with friends and family enjoying Kil@Wat’s spectacular Christmas brunch.

For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: Menu prices.

Marcus Hotels Holiday Gift Cards

Purchase $100 in Marcus gift cards and receive a $25 bonus gift card redeemable at any Marcus restaurant, spa hotel or theatre. Purchase today at: http://www.marcusgiftcards.com/

 

10.26.18

Make it a holiday to remember at the Pfister Hotel, Hilton Milwaukee and Intercontinental Milwaukee

Plus, the three “must do” events at Marcus Hotels & Resorts this holiday season

MILWAUKEE, October 23, 2018… Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive feasts will soon arrive at the AAA Four-Diamond Pfister Hotel, AAA Four-Diamond Hilton Milwaukee City Center and InterContinental Milwaukee, bringing treasured holiday traditions back to town. Locals and visitors alike can look for a mix of classic holiday celebrations, as well as new, fun and energizing occasions to toast to the holiday season!

Top Three “Must Do” Holiday Events to Make 2018 a Holiday to Remember:

  • The Pfister Hotel’s Annual Tree Lighting Event – Friday, November 23, 2018 from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. (official lighting at 5:30 p.m.)
    • The Pfister Hotel is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2018, and its annual tree lighting ceremony is one of Milwaukee’s most celebrated and anticipated traditions. Featuring an 18-foot, LED-lighted holiday tree, the festive event includes complimentary holiday treats, music, hot cocoa and more. Parents are invited to bring their cameras, as Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving at 5:20 p.m. on a Milwaukee Fire Department fire truck to greet guests and pose for photos. Guests are encouraged to write letters to Santa and drop them in Santa’s special mailbox, which he will take back with him to the North Pole. While the actual tree lighting ceremony takes place at 5:30 p.m., the other activities extend to 6:30 p.m. To support those in need during the holiday season, The Pfister Hotel will collect food for Hunger Task Force and encourages guests to bring non-perishable food items. This event is free and open to the public. Enjoy complimentary parking with any purchase.
  • Pfister Holiday Marketplace – Saturday and Sunday, December 8 and 9, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    • Discover and connect with local artists and experience holiday fun and art in many forms. Hosted by talented artist Renee Bebeau, guests will enjoy festive music and fine art while shopping for the perfect gift for family and friends. Located on The Pfister Mezzanine, entry into the marketplace is free.
  • Holiday Trivia at Monarch Lounge – December 5 and December 19, 2018 | Trivia begins at 6:30 p.m.
    • Put your holiday pop culture and history knowledge to the test during holiday trivia nights at Monarch Lounge in the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Competitors will enjoy specialty holiday cocktails, as well as friendly competition for fun prizes and gift cards. If teams wear holiday-themed attire, they receive five bonus points!

In addition to these can’t-miss events, enjoy a wide variety of holiday dinners and brunches at all three Milwaukee Marcus Hotels & Resorts properties:

125 Years of Holiday Spirit at The Pfister

Milwaukee’s treasured 125-year-old hotel is pleased to present a number of memorable experiences and events to celebrate the spirit of the season. For more information on The Pfister’s holiday festivities, visit: www.thepfisterhotel.com/holidays.

Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch at The Pfister

Thursday, November 22 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

The breathtaking atmosphere of The Pfister Hotel’s ballroom provides the perfect destination for a cherished Thanksgiving.  In a comfortable yet elegant setting, The Pfister Hotel’s beloved brunch provides ample holiday cheer. There is much to be thankful for, from appetizers and entrées, to side dishes and desserts – plus all the traditional trimmings.  Extend the holiday experience and stay the night Wednesday, November 21 or Thursday, November 22. Rates start at $109 per night, plus tax with the purchase of brunch.  For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.  Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3-10 years-old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included).  Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

 Breakfast with Santa

Saturdays and Sundays, December 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23, 2018 | Two seatings will be available each date – 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa is a Pfister tradition that creates lifelong memories. Guests have the opportunity to share a jolly, plated breakfast with Santa and his elves in The Pfister’s festive ballroom. Smaller seatings for each date will ensure that everyone has an exceptional experience. In addition to photos with Santa, which are highly encouraged, every child will receive a special gift and will be able to write letters to Santa, while enjoying making other special holiday crafts. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $48 Adults, $30 Children 3-10 years old, 2 and under free. Credit card guarantee required. 48-hour cancellation notice required or full amount is charged.

Mason Street Grill Christmas Carol Experience

Saturday, December 8 and 15, 2018 | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Reserve your spot for a wonderful winter’s evening, enjoying dinner at Mason Street Grill followed by A Christmas Carol presented by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Complimentary parking in The Pfister structure and transportation to the show will be provided. A three-course prix-fixe menu will be available starting at 5:00 p.m. Guests can then take The Pfister’s shuttle to the Pabst Theater for the 7:30 p.m. showtime of A Christmas Carol. Last shuttle will leave at 7:00 p.m. For reservations, call 414.298.3131. Pricing: $125 per person; preferred orchestra seating for the show. (Tax and gratuity not included.)

Christmas Celebration Brunch

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Christmas brunch at The Pfister begins with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary followed by a spectacular buffet featuring a delicious assortment of appetizers, salads, entrées and decadent desserts in the hotel’s elegant main ballroom. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950. Pricing: $68 Adults, $27 Children 3 – 10 years old, 2 and under free (tax and gratuity are not included). Credit card guarantee is required, and a 48-hour cancellation notice is required or full amount will be charged.

Special Holiday Room Promotions:

To truly enjoy a magical Pfister holiday experience, consider staying overnight and waking up on Christmas morning in luxury! On December 24 or 25, 2018, overnight rates start at $109 per night, plus tax, with the purchase of brunch. For reservations, call 877.704.5340 or 414.935.5950.

 

Holiday Traditions at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.hiltonmilwaukee.com/holiday. 

Wine Wednesdays at Milwaukee ChopHouse

Every Wednesday in December | Normal operating hours

Enjoy 50 percent-off bottles under $100 and 25 percent-off bottles $100 and up every Wednesday in December. 

Miller Time Pub & Grill Sweater Drive

Friday, December 7 to Sunday, December 9, 2018 | Normal operating hours

Miller Time Pub & Grill patrons can donate a lightly used or brand-new sweater to those in need this holiday season. For every sweater donated, patrons will receive a free Miller beer on tap (up to five).

Nightmare Before Christmas Party at Miller Time Pub & Grill

Friday, December 14, 2018 | 6:00 p.m. to close

Miller Time Pub & Grill celebrates the spookier side of Christmas during a “Nightmare Before Christmas” party. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the classic movie on TVs throughout the pub, while enjoying themed cocktails. Costumes are highly encouraged.

 Celebrating the Holidays in Style at the InterContinental Milwaukee

To learn more about the holiday events listed below, visit: www.intercontinentalmilwaukee.com/holiday.

Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner at Kil@Wat

Thursday, November 22 | Brunch from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | Dinner from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Feast with family and friends at Kil@Wat’s incredible Thanksgiving brunch or four-course dinner. Bringing together traditional favorites and adventurous new creations, this will be a Thanksgiving to remember.  For reservations: Call 414.291.4793. Cost: $49 per person; $69 with wine pairings.

 Holiday Lights Kick-Off

Thursday, November 15 | 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The holiday season starts with the annual downtown Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival. Following the tree lighting in Red Arrow Park, stop by and warm up with free hot cocoa and a selection of our house-made holiday cookies. Complimentary Hot Cocoa will be provided.

Glühwein & Sweets Special at CLEAR

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4 p.m. – Close

Enjoy the hotel’s rustic recipe of Glühwein – a classic mulled beverage – and sample delectable desserts to satisfy your holiday sweet tooth.  Pricing: $7/glass for mulled wine and $10 for the dessert sampler.

 Christmas Eve Dinner at Kil@Wat

Monday, December 24, 2018 | 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Bring the family to Kil@Wat for a fantastic, five-course holiday feast on Christmas Eve. To add to the experience, the meal can be upgraded with a full wine pairing menu. For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: $69 per person or $94 with wine pairings.

Christmas Day Brunch at Kil@Wat

Tuesday, December 25, 2018 | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Spend time with friends and family enjoying Kil@Wat’s spectacular Christmas brunch.

For reservations, call 414.276.8686. Pricing: Menu prices.

Marcus Hotels Holiday Gift Cards

Purchase $100 in Marcus gift cards and receive a $25 bonus gift card redeemable at any Marcus restaurant, spa hotel or theatre. Purchase today at: http://www.marcusgiftcards.com/

 

10.26.18

Blu Bar’s Blutender Program Featured in The Hospitality Experience

When hotels try to be good local citizens, one of the most natural avenues for them to help others is through food and beverage projects. In Milwaukee, Blu Bar & Lounge at The Pfister Hotel supports the community through its Blutender program.

Read more about its efforts in The Hospitality Experience

10.26.18

Blu Bar’s Blutender Program Featured in The Hospitality Experience

When hotels try to be good local citizens, one of the most natural avenues for them to help others is through food and beverage projects. In Milwaukee, Blu Bar & Lounge at The Pfister Hotel supports the community through its Blutender program.

Read more about its efforts in The Hospitality Experience

10.26.18

Pfister Artist in Residence Featured on Milwaukee PBS’s The Arts Page

The Pfister Hotel’s 10th Artist in Residence and local fashion designer, Stephanie Schultz has been using her residency to create a collection of pieces inspired by the historic hotel. Learn more about her creative process, her collection and more from Milwaukee PBS’s The Arts Page.

https://www.pbs.org/video/exceptional-and-original-bjfn2z/

10.26.18

Pfister Artist in Residence Featured on Milwaukee PBS’s The Arts Page

The Pfister Hotel’s 10th Artist in Residence and local fashion designer, Stephanie Schultz has been using her residency to create a collection of pieces inspired by the historic hotel. Learn more about her creative process, her collection and more from Milwaukee PBS’s The Arts Page.

https://www.pbs.org/video/exceptional-and-original-bjfn2z/

10.10.18

Experience the tradition of afternoon tea at the Pfister® hotel

The Pfister Hotel’s 10th Artist in Residence and local fashion designer, Stephanie Schultz has been using her residency to create a collection of pieces inspired by the historic hotel. Learn more about her creative process, her collection and more from Milwaukee PBS’s The Arts Page. https://www.pbs.org/video/exceptional-and-original-bjfn2z/

When hotels try to be good local citizens, one of the most natural avenues for them to help others is through food and beverage projects. In Milwaukee, Blu Bar & Lounge at The Pfister Hotel supports the community through its Blutender program. Read more about its efforts in The Hospitality Experience.

https://www.thehotelexperience.com/HX2018/Public/Content.aspx?ID=1253&inf_contact_key=73dbf2541b12421065abf2fe649202a4e336101fbf25162b8078a8eaf425bad8

Read the release here ( PDF )

10.10.18

Experience the tradition of afternoon tea at the Pfister® hotel

MILWAUKEE, October 3, 2018 – One of the AAA-Four Diamond Pfister Hotel’s most treasured afternoon traditions returns for another season. The hotel’s popular afternoon tea service, complete with a Pfister Tea Butler and tableside tea blending, kicked off this month and will now be available every Saturday and Sunday through April 28, 2019.

Read the release here ( PDF )

10.10.18

The Hospitality Experience: Hotels are Helping Others through F&B Initiatives and Projects

Hospitality news website, The Hospitality Experience, ran an article quoting Tim Smith, general manager of The Pfister Hotel, discussing the hotel’s community outreach initiatives, such as Blu Bar & Lounge’s Blutender program. Click here to read the full story.

Blu and Tim Smith Quoted in Hotel Experience Newsletter