'Absolutely incredible:' Milwaukee's Pfister Hotel named to USA TODAY's '10 best historic hotels in the US'

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- For 130 years, hundreds of thousands of people from all over have walked through the doors of Milwaukee's iconic Pfister Hotel -- and now, what's known as the "Grand Hotel of the West" can add one more title to its legacy.

Thanks to online voters and USA Today, the hotel can now claim #6 out of 10 on the list of best historic hotels in the U.S.

Originally opened in 1893 by a businessman named Guido Pfister and his son, Charles, now decades later, the Pfister is one of the oldest and most prestigious hotels in the Midwest. 

So, how did it earn this spot?

According to Brandon Drusch, the managing director and general manager for the Pfister, it's the personal connection between the building and the visitors.

"Everyone has a story of the Pfister Hotel. The reasons that brought them here initially, family events, weddings, proms," Drusch told CBS 58's Ellie Nakamoto-White. “For our guests to come in, to feel personally connected to this building, I think is what really made them go ahead and click that button to vote for this beautiful hotel.”

Beautiful is an understatement.

From the moment you walk inside, you're greeted with calming music, stunning original furnishings, and the largest Victorian art collection of any hotel in the world.

“The art is what makes the building come to life. It’s the soul of the hotel," Drusch said. “This is an incredibly historic building that has stood the test of time."

When asked what staff's reaction was when they learned they had gotten on the list, Drusch described "sheer pandemonium."

"People behind the house were just clapping, the heart of the house was excited, and then we were just telling all of our guests, as we went through the day, about just the overall excitement of what it means," Drusch said. "To be recognized as just such an incredible property in the country is just beyond.”

And for those who may have heard the rumors about the hotel being haunted? 

“The only ghost that we see is the spirit of hospitality in this hotel," Drusch clarified. 

According to a news release, the building on E. Wisconsin Ave. has been recognized by AAA as a Four Diamond property for over 45 consecutive years. 

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized among the nation’s top 10 historic hotels by USA TODAY, especially considering the important role reader input played in our selection,” said Michael Evans, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “With the Pfister celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, this designation is especially meaningful as we honor decades of impeccable elegance and beloved traditions at this most special hotel. As many will attest, the Pfister long has been home to generations of memory-making moments, including engagements, weddings, anniversaries and celebrations, along with history-making events, career defining accomplishments and so much more. Whether a first-time or long-time guest, we welcome you to visit The Pfister to make memories of your own.”

Currently, the hotel is undergoing a $20 million renovation, set to be completed next spring. 

And if you're wondering who snagged the #1 spot? The Historic Hotel Bethlehem, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. 

The full list can be found on the USA TODAY 10 Best website, HERE.