Meet The Bells

What are the chances of having two items on your Bucket List leading you directly to The Pfister Hotel? Joe and Jennifer, guests from East Lansing, Michigan, found themselves in this unique position. A number of years ago, the couple decided to tackle the Lake Michigan Circle tour. The 1100 mile road trip found the couple making stops in the Upper Peninsula to explore family history, Chicago to visit their daughter, and Milwaukee, to stay at a hotel that had been recommended to them by many friends, The Pfister. They fell in love with the hotel and when crossing off another Bucket List entry brought them again to Milwaukee, there wasn’t a doubt as to where the couple would stay.

Voyaging on the SS Badger, the Lake Michigan car ferry that moves passengers between Ludington, MI and Manitowoc, WI, has long been a goal for the pair. Finding a few open days, the duo treated themselves to a quick getaway, making the 4 hour sail into Wisconsin and then driving into Milwaukee to spend a few days at the hotel which held so many happy memories for them.

We chatted in the Lobby Lounge and I learned the couple have owned and operated a pub that caters to Michigan State students and their fans for 38 years.  Their establishment attracts Big 10 fans from all over the country and they shared their opinion that Badgers and Cornhuskers were among their favorite fans, citing them as polite and courteous, even while in the heart of Spartan country.  The amiable conversation wandered from the Midwest into world travel, excellent meals in our favorite cities and the many attractions of historic hotels.

Enchanted by the friendly Bells, I met the couple the next morning for a tour of the hotel, showing them some of the charming details I have discovered and enjoy show those who share my delight in historic buildings. As we strolled the halls, I offered them many ideas for engaging ways to explore the city during their mid-week getaway. As I noted the restaurants they should try, the shops they should pop into and the sights they must see, I realized I provided far more suggestions than could ever be tackled in just one trip. As converts to the many charms of Milwaukee, and now armed with a long list of new ways to experience Cream City, I am certain the pair will be back in town soon.

We cannot wait until this delightful couple returns to their home away from home in Milwaukee, The Pfister Hotel.