Aloft Hotels are a relatively new brand to the Starwood Preferred Guest lineup. Introduced in 2005, the brand is SPG’s attempt to expand market-share with a more boutique brand. The rates tend to be competitive with Marriott’s Fairfield Inn or Hilton Garden hotels. The Aloft Milwaukee Downtown was only slightly more expensive than the Fairfield Inn. The Aloft hotel is conveniently located alongside the Milwaukee River and just steps from Water Street Bars.
Waking into the Aloft lobby, you are welcomed by a 360 degree check-in desk. To the left, a fully stocked bar, sitting area, and billiard table. SPG members can check in from the mobile app and receive a mobile room key prior to arriving at the hotel. Valet Parking is available, but an overnight garage is just a block away and about half the price of the valet.
The Aloft rooms contain the same modern décor as the lobby and most rooms feature great views of the Milwaukee River. The Mobile Room Key is one of my favorite SPG features. It is nice to have your room key on your phone and to be able to avoid the Check-in desk and head straight to the room.
Ever since the Marriott & SPG merger announcement and receiving complimentary SPG Gold status through my American Express Platinum card, I’ve been meaning to give SPG a try. This night also allowed me to take advantage of the lucrative Uber / SPG partnership as the promotion requires you to stay at least one night at an SPG property.
I loved my stay at the Aloft Milwaukee Downtown, it is much nicer than the Fairfield Inn by Marriott for a similar price. I am very excited for SPG properties to become part of the Marriott brand and to start earning Marriott nights and points while staying at other great SPG Properties.
