Just in time for Summerfest, the city's first Kimpton hotel is now open on Chicago St. in the Third Ward.
"I hope our timing is impeccable," says Patrick Gaskin, general manger.
The upscale hotel opened today with a tapping of Milwaukee craft beer. The Journeyman Kimpton has 158 rooms, a penthouse and a rooftop bar, with 360 degree views of the city.
"Spectacular views of Milwaukee. It makes you feel like you you are at a friend's backyard relaxing and enjoying the sunset on the rooftop," says Gaskin.
- SPECIAL SECTION: Summer(fest) Like a Rock Star!
The rooms run from about 350 square feet to over 900, and right now start at just under $300 a night.
If you're hungry, there are two restaurants to choose from: Tre Rivali and The Outsider are both run by a contestant on Bravo's "Top Chef".
"This is a stretch for me, using Mediterranean food and using Italian and Spanish influence as well as Moroccan and North African, so its a good challenge," the chef says.
Another challenge was making this hotel fit into an historic area.
The Third Ward has seen an ongoing transformation since the 1980's - from industrial buildings to housing, restaurants, stores and more.
"It looks like this building was also absolutely meant to be here. The architecture, the way it fits perfectly," says Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.
