What to expect: Dating from 1893, this grand dame hotel’s lobby ceiling showcases a heavenly mural of cherubs and clouds. Fine paintings, objets d’art, silks, brocades, roses, and orchids add to the Victorian ambience. A dapper concierge in morning coat greets business travelers, weekend romantics, and returning guests. The Pfister is comprised of the original building and a 1960’s tower, connected at the first and seventh floors.

Amenity highlights: WELL Spa provides 11 private treatment suites, a hair salon, and a fitness center. The fitness center is complimentary for hotel guests, as is a 23rd floor indoor pool, surrounded by glass windows and panoramic views. Also on the 23rd floor is Blu, a cocktail bar specializing in martinis and wine flights. Other dining options include a classic grill, Continental-style café, Sunday brunch venue, and ornate lobby lounge.

Insider tip: Locals head for the Milwaukee Public Market to grab a quick lunch or buy high-quality artisan products. Among the culinary delights are cheeses, chocolates, fresh produce, freshly roasted coffee, and fine wines. From late May through October the market is held outdoors. Hours of operation are Monday–Friday, 10 AM-7 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 8 AM–5 PM.

What to expect: A vast marble-and-brass lobby welcomes conventioneers and business travelers to Milwaukee, as well as weekenders out on the town. This high-rise hotel has been restored to its original 1920s Art Deco splendor and updated with conveniences such as hotel-wide wireless Internet access (surcharge) and a Starbucks branch. Crystal chandeliers and elevators with their original carved-brass doors enhance the ambience.

Amenity highlights: The hotel’s Paradise Landing™, a 20,000-square-foot indoor water park, offers a shallow lagoon pool, giant spa tub, zero-entry children’s pool with fountain, and three-level Jamaican-style village with four waterslides. Day passes may be purchased at the front desk, based on availability.

Dining options at Hilton Milwaukee City Center include the classic Milwaukee Chophouse dinner restaurant and the brass-and-wood Miller Time Pub with brick floors and big wooden booths.

Insider tip: Locals head for the Milwaukee Public Market to grab a quick lunch or pick up high-quality products to go. Among the taste pleasers are cheeses, chocolates, fresh produce, freshly roasted coffee, and fine wines. From late May through October the market is held outdoors. Hours of operation are Monday–Friday, 10 AM-7 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 8 AM–5 PM (subject to change).

Located in an upscale suburb that is home to several companies and attractions, this hotel draws both business travelers and vacationers. The hotel was renovated December 2007 and provides complimentary use of its Sheraton Link business center, which includes wireless Internet access.