f you live in Milwaukee, plan to travel to the Brew City or The Badger State anytime soon, then you should plan to check out the new Saint Kate Arts Hotel. Saint Kate is a first-of-its-kind independent arts hotel focused on celebrating the arts and the creative process. They cater to the local community as much as out-of-town travelers and their goal is to attract seekers – those who wish to engage and participate rather than simply observe and revere.
The name Saint Kate is a nod to Saint Catherine, the patron Saint of Artists, the original champion of the creative process. The arts hotel is located in the heart of downtown by Milwaukee’s theatre district and is within easy walking distance to numerous restaurants, galleries, as well as the city’s new entertainment district. From the time you first step inside you will notice that the hotel recognizes and celebrates emerging and established visual artists. It features a 1,700-square-foot gallery located on the first floor, The Cube, a traditional white, cube gallery, The Space, a rotating visual arts exhibits, and The Closet, an immersive installation room on the second floor. Ask for a tour and learn about the history of many of the featured pieces and the artists that created them.
If you judge a hotel by its food and drink, then Saint Kate gets high marks. The hotel prides itself on its options and sourcing the best quality and freshest ingredients from near and far. Saint Kate’s dining experiences aim to engage, connect and inspire.
Saint Kate’s culinary and bar experiences include, Aria Café & Bar, specializing in simple, classic American cuisine, Proof Pizza, a Neapolitan-style pizzeria perfect for a quick lunch during a busy workday or a casual dinner, and the Bar, which is a focal point and primary gathering area at Saint Kate. During the day, the Bar is the neighborhood’s go-to spot for work, and at night, transforms into a vibrant, social spot. T.D.R. (The Dark Room) is an intimate 26-seat speakeasy-style restaurant and Giggly Champagne & Wine Bar is Milwaukee’s only champagne bar. A hidden gem overlooking Milwaukee’s theatre and entertainment district, Giggly is the place to make every day a party – to “faire la fete.”
After drinking and dining you will be eager to take advantage of the comfort that Saint Kate rooms offer. They’re not basic by any means, but elegantly and artistically decorated. Be sure to grab a vintage album located at the front desk when you check, because every room sports a record player for your listening pleasure. When you stay in one of the The Canvas rooms you stay in a living, breathing piece of art. The Canvas rooms are given to local artists as blank slates—and the completely unique finished products are yours to explore. From photography and materials to the actual paint on the walls, these beautiful rooms allow you to peek inside the minds of John Grant, Lon Michels, Rosemary Ollison, Reed Skocz and Cory Zimmerman. Plus, a portion of the proceeds from each stay will benefit local and state-wide arts initiatives. Learn more about these collaboratirs at https://www.saintkatearts.com/collaborators
The Saint Kate Arts Hotel is located at 139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI. For room rates and booking visit www.saintkatearts.com
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The Leopard Room by Lon Michels
Saint Kate's 1,700-square-foot gallery.