Haunted Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin You Can Stay In
Discover the most haunted hotels in Milwaukee with real ghost stories and paranormal activity
3 Haunted Hotels Found in Milwaukee
Brumder Mansion Bed & Breakfast
3046 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53208, United States
The Brumder Mansion is known as one of Milwaukee's most haunted locations, with guests and investigators reporting encounters with at least three known spirits. Experiences include unexplained noises, cold spots, objects moving on their own, and vivid dreams, particularly in the 'Gold Suite' where a female entity named 'Aunt Pussy' reportedly makes her presence known. Past owner accounts mention strange occurrences like a mirror shattering inexplicably and droplets of blood appearing. Despite these paranormal activities, including a basement speakeasy history potentially tied to ghostly origins, the spirits are generally considered benevolent and curious rather than malicious.
The Pfister Hotel
424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Opened in 1893 by Charles Pfister, The Pfister Hotel is renowned not only for its luxury but also for persistent claims of paranormal activity. Guests, including numerous visiting Major League Baseball players, have reported encounters with what is believed to be the spirit of the hotel's founder, Charles Pfister. These experiences include apparitions seen roaming the hallways and staircase, unexplained knocking and pounding sounds, electronic devices switching on and off by themselves, and objects moving inexplicably. Baseball player Bryce Harper shared an incident where his clothes were moved across the room overnight despite his door remaining latched, contributing to the hotel's reputation as one of baseball's most haunted locations.
Shaker's Cigar Bar & Penthouse
422 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Shaker's is built on a former cemetery and operated as a Prohibition-era speakeasy/brothel reportedly run by the Capone brothers. Its haunted reputation is fed by numerous stories, including the murder of a teenage prostitute named Molly Brennan in the 1920s/30s whose bones were allegedly found in the walls decades later. Other reported spirits include a young girl, Elizabeth, who died on the grounds before the building's construction, and various figures associated with its speakeasy days and tragic events. Guests report phenomena in the penthouse and basement, attributing them to these restless spirits and its dark history, including being a haunt of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
Haunted History of Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee's haunted history is a potent brew of beer baron legacies, Great Lakes maritime tragedies, and a shockingly dark underbelly. As a city built on the brewing industry, many of its oldest buildings, from lavish mansions to cavernous beer caves, are said to be haunted by the powerful personalities who founded the beer empires. The spirits of these industrial titans, unwilling to leave their fortunes behind, are said to still wander their former homes and businesses.
Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is also tied to the countless shipwrecks and storms that have claimed lives over the centuries. Legends of ghostly sailors and phantom ships appearing in the fog are a chilling part of the local folklore. This history is further darkened by the city's unfortunate connection to serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, whose heinous crimes left a lasting psychic scar on certain neighborhoods, contributing to a modern layer of paranormal dread.
Other Haunted Attractions in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- The Pabst Theater: This opulent, historic theater is one of Milwaukee's most cherished landmarks and also one of its most haunted. The ghost of its founder, the beer baron Captain Frederick Pabst, is said to still keep a watchful eye on his beloved theater. Staff and actors have reported seeing his apparition in the balcony and smelling his cigar smoke long after the building is empty. You can check for shows and tours at the Pabst Theater's website.
- Shaker's Cigar Bar: Operating in a building that was once a speakeasy and brothel during Prohibition, Shaker's is known as "Milwaukee's Haunted Bar." It was built on the grounds of an old cemetery, and the paranormal activity is so frequent that the bar runs its own ghost tours. Visitors report encounters with the spirit of a murdered prostitute and other shadowy figures from its sordid past.
- The Rave / Eagles Club: This massive concert venue is a paranormal hotspot, with a long history of chilling reports from musicians and staff alike. The most active area is a haunted swimming pool in the basement where a young man is said to have drowned. Apparitions, disembodied voices, and the feeling of being pushed are common experiences within its walls.
- Gothic Milwaukee Tours: For a guided exploration of the city's darkest corners, consider a tour with Gothic Milwaukee. Led by a local historian, these walking tours dive deep into the city's history of ghosts, murders, and macabre events, offering a spooky and educational look at Milwaukee's past.
Travel Tips for Haunted Hotel Stays in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Toast the Spirits: Milwaukee is famous for its beer and its ghosts, and sometimes they're in the same place. Visit a haunted historic bar like Shaker's or a brewery with a long history to combine the city's two greatest claims to fame.
- Catch a Show with a Ghost: Book a ticket to a performance at the Pabst Theater. Even if you don't see Captain Pabst himself, you'll be soaking in the atmosphere of one of the city's most active and beloved haunts.
- Explore the Lakefront: Take a walk along the shore of Lake Michigan, especially on a foggy evening. It's the perfect setting to contemplate the many ghost stories and maritime tragedies tied to the great lake.
- Take a Ghost Tour: A guided tour is the best way to learn the specific stories and hidden histories of Milwaukee's most haunted buildings and alleys.
FAQ about Haunted Hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Are haunted hotels in Milwaukee, Wisconsin safe to stay in? Absolutely. The city's haunted hotels are well-known for their excellent service and safety. The ghost stories are a celebrated part of their unique character and pose no threat to guests.
What is the most famous haunted hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin? The Pfister Hotel is without a doubt the most famous haunted hotel in Milwaukee. Its primary ghost, the original owner Charles Pfister, is known for his generally friendly but mischievous activity, which has famously spooked numerous visiting professional baseball players over the years.
Are there hauntings related to Milwaukee's brewery history? Yes, many of the city's hauntings are connected to the beer barons who built Milwaukee. The ghosts of figures like Frederick Pabst and other brewing pioneers are said to linger in the theaters, mansions, and breweries they once owned.
Is it true that sports teams get spooked in Milwaukee? The stories are true! Dozens of professional baseball players from visiting teams have reported paranormal experiences while staying at the Pfister Hotel, from flickering lights and disembodied voices to full-blown apparitions, making it a legendary stop in the MLB.
What's the best time of year for a haunted visit to Milwaukee, Wisconsin? Autumn is the perfect time for a spooky getaway in Milwaukee. The crisp fall air and Halloween season bring out the best in the city's haunted attractions, and the weather is ideal for a walking ghost tour.