Review Author

Karla Walsh

Contributing Writer

HOTEL SNAPSHOT

When you walk into the typical art gallery, the atmosphere is often subdued; an open, airy blank slate that allows the masterpieces to take center stage. As you push the revolving door at the entrance and step inside Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, though, you’ll realize that art is an essential part of “party.”

At this downtown arts district haven, you’re greeted by a larger-than-life bronze horse statue by Deborah Butterfield. If you time things right, you’ll notice a soundtrack of live music, a lobby bar fixture seven days per week starting at 5 p.m. Just past the rainbow-hued gift shop, Kate’s Curiosities, you’ll land at the front desk, where you’ll score your room key and be sent on your way with a glass of bubbly.

Design & Character

Developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts and designed by New York-based Stonehill Taylor, Saint Kate has been welcoming creators of all kinds since June 2019. The owners are personally passionate about art, and selected the name Saint Kate to pay tribute to Saint Catherine, the patron saint of artists.

The Rooms

And once you enter your spacious room, you’ll realize the party continues. A record player, ukulele, colored pencils, and ample paintings and sculptures are vibrant reminders that art comes in many forms, and you need not be well-versed in them already to feel like you can connect with it. Don’t miss the cheeky “artists you’re sleeping with” pamphlet on the side table to learn more about the work that graces your walls.

The Amenities

The artistic element isn’t just surface-level. Although there are several art galleries right on the first floor, each adorned with work by internationally acclaimed and Milwaukee-based artists. Saint Kate supports an artist in residence, offering a stipend and prime real estate just steps from the lobby to create, display, and sell her work. Book a guided tour with curator Shane McAdams to learn more about the current artist in residence, Julia Bradfish, as well as each thoughtful piece sprinkled across the property.

Before opening, Saint Kate also tapped four other artists to customize guest rooms, which they deem their canvas collection. Guests can book them just like a regular room or suite. “The Perfect Room” is a statement on female body ideals, while the aptly named “Leopard Room” will transport you on a delightful and trippy safari.

The Food + Drinks

After feasting on the art, you’re probably ready to savor some culinary arts, and you have several options to do just that. Proof Pizza is where you’ll find Neapolitan pies, sandwiches, and salads. Order at the counter and take it to The Bar to enjoy alongside a glass of wine, cocktail, or espresso as you rub shoulders with locals. Around sunset, don’t miss the rooftop Upper Bar for sips and some of the best river views in the city.

Before you check out of this immersive escape, be sure to swing into The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. The Mediterranean sea bass and warm, freshly baked sourdough are standouts.

Location & Neighborhood Recs

If you fall in love with the vibes as much as we did, or until you can make a visit to Milwaukee yourself, you can stream the same tunes that play through Saint Kate’s speakers. Both the day and night mixes offer enough audio art for you to enjoy for more than 22 hours.

Fast Facts

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Vibe: A downtown haven for locals and visitors alike, painted with visual, audio, and culinary arts.

Rating: 4 stars

Rooms: 219

Pricing: Rooms start at $129 per night

Food + Drink: Fast-casual Neapolitan pizza shop, two bars, a restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, and a speakeasy-style private dining space.

Any neighborhood recs? Il Cervo, Colectivo, Uncle Wolfie’s Breakfast Tavern, Agency, and Ester Ev.

Our favorite thing about the hotel? The multi-faceted way art is infused into the space. Every inch is a canvas, even the Kohler bathroom sinks, which are accessorized with eye-catching ribbon or flower designs.

What’s nearby? Milwaukee RiverWalk, 3rd St. Market Hall, Milwaukee Public Market, WELL Spa + Salon, Turner Hall Ballroom, and Fiserv Forum.

Amenities: Restaurant, pizza parlor, bar, room service, on-site art galleries, live music nightly, 24-hour fitness center, business center, free WiFi, parking, boutique, record player and ukulele in every room, and pet-friendly accommodations.

Closest Airports: About a 15-minute drive from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)