Boom, Boom, Pow and Room Service: 8 Hotels for The 4th of July

By: Juliana

America the beautiful, we’re ready to celebrate you on the 4th of July. (Shout-out to our new national treasure, Tim Howard.)

Still not sure what to do for the Fourth? Here are 8 hotels who want to BBQ and drink beer with you before cuddling up to watch the fireworks. Boom, boom, pow and room service!

See more here.

Marcus Hotels & Resorts announced its flagship property, the AAA-Four Diamond historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, has completed the renovation of its 176 tower guest rooms.

The completed guest room renovations are part of a multi-year, multimillion dollar reinvestment in the property, which includes new club floors offering additional enhancements and amenities for guests, a high-tech executive boardroom and a Club Lounge.

“The hotel’s tower was originally added to the building in 1966 to meet the growing demand from travelers and to add a contemporary look and modern amenities, while still embracing the rooms in the historic section of the hotel,” said Thomas F. Kissinger, interim president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts and senior executive vice president of The Marcus Corporation. “Once again, the tower guest rooms have been redesigned with today’s modern traveler in mind, while still preserving the art and history that makes the property a unique jewel.”

The newly renovated tower guest rooms were designed to reflect a vision of livable luxury – blending tradition with modern esthetics and amenities. The power of neutral grays and neutral space is a constant theme throughout, with a pop of imaginative color.

Each bathroom features marble vanity tops and flooring, a separate commode stall for privacy and a tiled shower. Designed with the everyday business traveler in mind, the rooms offer guests a stylish and comfortable workspace.

As part of the renovations, the hotel introduced two new club floors with added personalized conveniences and services that include access to the hotel’s new VIP Club Lounge on the 23rd floor and a private attendant.

Exclusive VIP Experience

The Pfister Hotel announced the completion of its Club Lounge in April 2013. The Club Lounge is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. The Club Lounge is located on the top floor of the hotel, offering expansive views of the city and Lake Michigan. With an atmosphere similar to a home library, guests can enjoy a fireplace, bookshelves, comfortable seating, workstations for individuals and small groups, Wi-Fi Internet access, printers and televisions for monitoring the day’s events.

The Club Lounge also offers guests breakfast each morning, snacks and beverages throughout the day and hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in the evening. Guests not staying on club floors can upgrade their room reservation to include Club Lounge access for a nominal fee.

High-Tech Executive Boardroom

The Pfister’s new executive boardroom, Twenty 3, was also introduced last year. The upscale boardroom incorporates presentation technology, multiple 4K LED monitors, including 3D, gesture recognition, iPad multimedia controls, surround sound and an iMac lab.

MILWAUKEE–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced that it received a Bronze Telly Award for the documentary “The Pfister: History & Story” and two awards for the first edition hardcover book, “The History, Art & Imagery of The Pfister Hotel,” at the 2014 International Book Awards and the National Indie Excellence® Book Awards. Both the book and the documentary were produced in 2013 to commemorate the iconic Pfister® Hotel’s 120^th anniversary.

“The past year has been a very exciting time for The Pfister Hotel and for all of us at The Marcus Corporation as the grand dame hotel celebrated 120 years of luxurious accommodations and legendary service”

Depicting the history of the Milwaukee landmark through memories and stories of previous guests, employees, historians and notable local figures, “The Pfister: History & Story” documentary received a Bronze Award at the 35^thAnnual Telly Awards. The documentary takes viewers back in time to experience the grandeur of the hotel, including its evolution since it opened its doors to the public in 1893. Produced in conjunction with z2, located in Waukesha, Wis., the film was selected as a winner in the “Documentary” category. Drawing more than 13,000 entries each year, the Telly Awards serve as the premier awards contest honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions.

In addition to this recognition, the coffee table book, “The History, Art & Imagery of The Pfister Hotel,” also received two awards. Showcasing the remarkable architecture and history of the time-honored hotel, the 283-page publication was an award-winner in the “Photography” category of the 2014 International Book Awards honoring independent authors and publishers from around the world. The hardcover book also received a Finalist Award in the “Photography” category for overall presentation and exceptional writing from the National Indie Excellence® Book Awards, recognizing self-published books across the country.

“The past year has been a very exciting time for The Pfister Hotel and for all of us at The Marcus Corporation as the grand dame hotel celebrated 120 years of luxurious accommodations and legendary service,” said Chris Anderson, senior vice president, Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “From interactions with Elvis to serving as an integral stop on JFK’s presidential campaign, The Pfister Hotel’s legacy encompasses so many stories over its 120 years of service, all of which had yet to be memorialized for future generations until now. Both the documentary and coffee table book help capture these momentous occasions and ensure that these stories will be told for the next 120 years to come.”

“We are incredibly honored to receive two book awards and one Telly Award for these outstanding pieces that recognize the remarkable history and overwhelming beauty of this landmark hotel. We are equally as honored to be able to share the hotel’s extraordinary story with our guests, the Milwaukee community and beyond,” added Anderson.

For more information about the 35^th Annual Telly Awards, please visit: http://www.tellyawards.com/.

For more information about the 2014 International Book Awards, please visit: http://www.internationalbookawards.com/home.html.

For more information about the National Indie Excellence® Book Awards, please visit: http://indieexcellence.com/about-indie-excellence.htm.

To view “The Pfister: History & Story” documentary, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad8_xVlOxdg.

About “The History, Art & Imagery of The Pfister Hotel” Book:

Written by Thomas Jordan and designed by Steve Biel, both from Milwaukee, “The History, Art & Imagery of The Pfister Hotel” book captures the timeless beauty, personality and elegance of this world-class hotel through breathtaking original photography by Milwaukee photographer Jay Filter. Published by The Marcus Corporation and registered with the Library of Congress, the book’s 283 pages detail the hotel’s simple yet elegant architecture and history, showcasing ironwork railing and staircases, exquisite chandeliers, the Victorian front desk that has greeted guests since 1893 and original paintings. The stunning images tell the story of The Pfister through its beauty and serenity that has attracted every U.S. President since McKinley, as well as hundreds of celebrities, sports figures and world dignitaries.

About “The Pfister: History & Story” Documentary:

After a year of research uncovering fascinating historical documents in the vaults of the hotel, “The Pfister: History & Story” documentary was written, filmed and produced by z2, a branding firm located in Waukesha, Wis. The documentary, developed in celebration of The Pfister’s 120^th anniversary, chronicles the history of the legendary hotel through photos, video footage, and interviews with previous guests, employees, historians and notable local figures. The personal stories dictated in the film convey The Pfister’s impact on the community and all those who pass through its doors into the grand marble lobby.

Unwind at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa’s Wellness Retreat

By: Jessica McCafferty

You love the city. But then again, there just comes a time when it’s nice to unwind and get away.  Enter Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

Combining nutrition, wellness and fitness in an inspiring yet incredibly fun experience, their 3 day Wellness RETREAT could be just what the doctor ordered.

See more here.

Next Generation Wellness Movement: Spa Hotels vs. Hotel Spas

By: John Morris

Wellness is in – digital detoxes, spirituality concierges and vegan restaurants are trending in the hospitality and travel industries because of a growing segment of travelers either seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle on the road or looking to improve their wellness through retreats and education. Some resorts have gone above merely draping their brand in wellness terminology and instead have integrated these health-conscious components into their design and programming. 

See more here.

June 23, 2014 | Jill Carlson for Wisconsin State Journal 

The Hilton Madison Monona Terrace and the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center have collaborated to launch the Carbone Ribbon Room.

The Ribbon Room, located at the Hilton Madison, is a reconfigured premium lake-view hotel room redesigned to offer a bright, hopeful and inspirational environment to Carbone center patients as well as those who have personally been touched by cancer.

The Hilton Madison donates $25 to the Carbone center for every Ribbon Room reservation.

The room features customized furniture and literature to include cancer survivor biographies and a journal for guests to share their sentiments.

The room’s artwork was commissioned by Madison artist Angelina Paoli, a cancer survivor.

The Carbone Ribbon Room originated from initiative by Hilton Madison associates, predominately, Andrea Mace, regional sales manager for Marcus Hotels and Resorts, the Hilton Madison’s parent company. Marcus Hotels and Resorts, a division of Marcus Corp., is based in Milwaukee and has about 139 employees. Many associates volunteered to complete the room during their time off.

“Cancer touches many, and we all have a story to tell. By partnering with UWCCC on the Carbone Ribbon Room, we hope to generate awareness and inspire others to take a creative approach to community involvement,” said Mace, who is also a member of the Carbone center’s Emerging Leaders Board.

Cancer affected Mace’s family as well as the lives of many Hilton Madison associates. The goal is to raise $7,500 annually through Ribbon Room reservations, which will be donated to the Carbone center to help fund cancer research.

The Carbone Ribbon Room logo represents multiple cancer awareness ribbons, and the bow shape represents the gift committed to funding cancer research through this project.

The Carbone Cancer Center was established at UW-Madison as one of the first six university-based comprehensive cancer centers of excellence.

The center is involved in groundbreaking clinical trials and research studies to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

In addition to the Ribbon Room, Hilton Madison associates participate in four to five volunteer projects annually.

Each year, associates collect 100 to 150 toys for the annual Toys for Tots drive. They also conduct a textiles and food donation for Porchlight during the holidays. The Hilton Madison is an annual sponsor of the Original Chefs Auction fundraiser.

MILWAUKEE, Wis.—Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ flagship property, the historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wis., has completed the renovation of its 176 tower guestrooms. The completed guestroom renovations are part of a multi-year, multi-million-dollar reinvestment in the property, which includes new club floors offering additional enhancements and amenities for guests, a high-tech executive boardroom and a Club Lounge.

“The Pfister Hotel, built in 1893, was purchased out of bankruptcy by Ben Marcus, The Marcus Corporation’s founder, in 1962. The hotel’s tower was originally added to the building in 1966 to meet the growing demand from travelers and to add a contemporary look and modern amenities, while still embracing the rooms in the historic section of the hotel. Once again, the tower guestrooms have been redesigned with today’s modern traveler in mind, while still preserving the art and history that makes the property a unique jewel,” said Thomas F. Kissinger, interim president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts and senior executive vice president of The Marcus Corporation.

The newly renovated tower guestrooms were designed to reflect a vision of livable luxury—blending tradition with modern esthetics and amenities. The power of neutral grays and neutral space is a constant theme throughout, with a pop of imaginative color. Each bathroom features marble vanity tops and flooring, a separate commode stall for privacy and a tiled shower.

As part of the renovations, the hotel introduced two new club floors with added personalized conveniences and services that include access to the hotel’s new VIP Club Lounge on the 23rd floor and a private attendant. “Club floor guests will be greeted with a special welcome amenity and personalized note in an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Guests in these rooms can enjoy convenient technology amenities, a Keurig coffee maker, and a personal club room attendant to manage any special requests throughout their stay,” Kissinger said.

The Pfister Hotel announced the completion of its Club Lounge in April 2013. Located on the top floor of the hotel, the Club Lounge offers expansive views of the city and Lake Michigan. With an atmosphere similar to a home library, guests can enjoy a fireplace, bookshelves, comfortable seating, workstations for individuals and small groups, WiFi Internet access, printers, and televisions. The Club Lounge also offers guests breakfast each morning, snacks, and beverages throughout the day and hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in the evening. Guests not staying on club floors can upgrade their room reservation to include Club Lounge access for a nominal fee.

The Pfister’s new executive boardroom, Twenty 3, was also introduced last year. The upscale, high-tech boardroom incorporates unmatched presentation technology, multiple 4K LED monitors, including 3D, gesture recognition, iPad multi-media controls, surround sound, and an iMac lab.

“We are extremely pleased with the results of the newly designed guestrooms, and believe our guests will be too,” said Gregory S. Marcus, president and CEO of The Marcus Corporation. “We are committed to the continuous improvement of the hotel. From the décor and personal service to the new Club Lounge and club floors, we are always looking for ways to enhance our guests’ experience. Many guests stay at The Pfister because of its rich history, extensive Victorian art collection and personal service. The renovations allow us to meet the needs of today’s savvy millennial travelers, while also maintaining the historic look and feel of the hotel.”

A renovation of downtown Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel’s tower rooms has been completed, owner Marcus Hotels & Resorts has announced.

The completed renovations of 176 guest rooms are part of a multi-year, multi-million-dollar reinvestment in the property, which includes new club floors offering additional amenities for guests, a high-tech executive boardroom and a Club Lounge, the company said.

The Pfister Hotel’s original structure was built in 1893, and the hotel’s tower was added in 1966. The hotel is at 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.

“Once again, the tower guest rooms have been redesigned with today’s modern traveler in mind, while still preserving the art and history that makes the property a unique jewel,” said Thomas F. Kissinger, interim president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts and Marcus Corp. senior executive vice president, in a statement.

MILWAUKEE—Marcus Hotels & Resorts, cialis a division of The Marcus Corporation, has completed a multimillion-dollar renovation of the 178 tower guestrooms of its flagship property, the Pfister Hotel, here.

The renovated tower guestrooms were designed to reflect livable luxury, according to the company, blending tradition with modern aesthetics and amenities. They feature a neutral color palette of grays with a pop of color. Bathrooms feature marble vanity tops and flooring, a separate commode stall and a tiled shower. A workspace is also offered.

The completed renovations are part of a multi-year, multimillion-dollar reinvestment in the property, which includes new club floors offering additional enhancements and amenities for guests, a high-tech executive boardroom and a Club Lounge, completed in April 2013.

As part of the renovation, the hotel introduced two new club floors with added personalized conveniences and services, including access to the VIP Club Lounge on the 23rd loor and a private attendant. The new executive boardroom, Twenty 3, was also introduced last year. It offers multiple 4K LED monitors, including 3D, gesture recognition, iPad multimedia controls, surround sound and an iMac lab.

MILWAUKEE–(EON: Enhanced Online News)–Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced its flagship property, the AAA-Four Diamond historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wis. has completed the renovation of its 176 tower guest rooms. The completed guest room renovations are part of a multi-year, multi-million-dollar reinvestment in the property, which includes new club floors offering additional enhancements and amenities for guests, a high-tech executive boardroom and a Club Lounge.

“Club floor guests will be greeted with a special welcome amenity and personalized note in an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Guests in these rooms can enjoy convenient technology amenities, a Keurig coffee maker, and a personal club room attendant to manage any special requests throughout their stay”

“The Pfister Hotel, built in 1893, was purchased out of bankruptcy by Ben Marcus, The Marcus Corporation’s founder, in 1962. The hotel’s tower was originally added to the building in 1966 to meet the growing demand from travelers and to add a contemporary look and modern amenities, while still embracing the rooms in the historic section of the hotel. Once again, the tower guest rooms have been redesigned with today’s modern traveler in mind, while still preserving the art and history that makes the property a unique jewel,” said Thomas F. Kissinger, interim president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts and senior executive vice president of The Marcus Corporation.

The newly renovated tower guest rooms were designed to reflect a vision of livable luxury – blending tradition with modern esthetics and amenities. The power of neutral grays and neutral space is a constant theme throughout, with a pop of imaginative color. Each bathroom features marble vanity tops and flooring, a separate commode stall for privacy and a tiled shower. Designed with the everyday business traveler in mind, the rooms offer guests a comfortable work space – in beautiful style.

As part of the renovations, the hotel introduced two new club floors with added personalized conveniences and services that include access to the hotel’s new VIP Club Lounge on the 23^rdfloor and a private attendant. “Club floor guests will be greeted with a special welcome amenity and personalized note in an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Guests in these rooms can enjoy convenient technology amenities, a Keurig coffee maker, and a personal club room attendant to manage any special requests throughout their stay,” said Kissinger.

The Pfister Hotel announced the completion of its Club Lounge in April 2013. The Club Lounge is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. The Club Lounge is located on the top floor of the hotel, offering expansive views of the city and Lake Michigan. With an atmosphere similar to a home library, guests can enjoy a fireplace, bookshelves, comfortable seating, workstations for individuals and small groups, Wi-Fi Internet access, printers and televisions for monitoring the day’s events. The Club Lounge also offers guests breakfast each morning, snacks and beverages throughout the day and hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in the evening. Guests not staying on club floors can upgrade their room reservation to include Club Lounge access for a nominal fee.

The Pfister’s new executive boardroom, Twenty 3, was also introduced last year. The upscale, high-tech boardroom incorporates unmatched presentation technology, multiple 4K LED monitors, including 3D, gesture recognition, iPad multi-media controls, surround sound and an iMac lab.

“We are extremely pleased with the results of the newly designed guest rooms, and believe our guests will be too,” said Gregory S. Marcus, president and CEO of The Marcus Corporation. “We are committed to the continuous improvement of the hotel. From the décor and personal service to the new Club Lounge and club floors, we are always looking for ways to enhance our guests’ experience. Many guests stay at The Pfister because of its rich history, extensive Victorian art collection and personal service. The renovations allow us to meet the needs of today’s savvy millennial travelers, while also maintaining the historic look and feel of the hotel.”