Only a few blocks off the magnificent Lake Michigan, smack dab in the heart of downtown Kenosha, is The Stella Hotel & Ballroom.
The hard-to-miss big brick building started out as the Kenosha Elks Club back in 1919. And here we are, over a hundred years later, still enjoying the property.
The elegantly restored boutique hotel is well-preserved maintaining its historic charm but with modern upgrades making it the only full-service hotel downtown.
On my recent visit to Kenosha, I had the pleasure of staying a few nights and experiencing the sophisticated accommodations firsthand.
Plan a fun and interesting trip with my Top Things to Do in Kenosha article where I recommend all my favorite things to see and do, the must-experience restaurants in the area, and outdoor activities not to be missed.
Full Disclosure: We were hosted on this trip, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Below is my honest review of the hotel. Some of the links included are affiliate links, if you book through it we will receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
Downtown Kenosha Hotel with a Great Location
There are a few things that really stood out during my stay: the great location, beautiful decor, and stellar service.
The location is ideal. It’s within walking distance of the harbor, museums, lakefront, restaurants, craft breweries, and bars with an old-fashioned ice cream shop right across the street.
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The decor is lovely with sparkling crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and soft plush furniture.
The attention to detail is impressive. You’ll find vintage accessories like an antique rotary telephone and a copy of Gone with the Wind on top of accent tables.
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Even though The Stella Hotel has a distinctly refined vibe, the atmosphere is not stuffy at all. The staff are very warm and welcoming the minute you arrive and are determined to make your stay enjoyable.
The Stella Hotel Rooms
The four of us – two adults and two children – stayed in a Double Queen Room with two comfy beds in the original part of the hotel on the top floor. The beds are soft but on the firm side which is my favorite kind of mattress.
There are plenty of outlets throughout the room and a large 55″ high-definition television with premium channels – perfect for snuggling up the end of the night to watch a movie.
The room also has a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, full-length mirror (which came in handy with 4 girls), and a hairdryer.
The contemporary bathroom is spacious with a lot of counter space. It is stocked with Beekman 1802 products and has a shower with nice water pressure.
The room is an ideal base for the few days we are here exploring Kenosha. Search current hotel prices here.
The Rec Room
The kids will put down their electronics for the giant-sized board games in the Rec Room. You’re able to play huge versions of Scrabble, Checkers, Monopoly, chess, tic-tac-toe, backgammon, and more.
Dining and Drinks at The Stella Hotel
We didn’t get the opportunity to eat or drink at any of the restaurants or bars on this visit, but we definitely plan on it when we get back.
The Stella offers a cafe that is open every day for breakfast and lunch. If the smells are any indication of whether or not they offer quality products, my nose tells me the coffee shop is an outstanding place to start the day.
The 1844 Table & Mash is the main restaurant at the hotel and offers fine dining in a supper club setting. They offer live music on some nights and a happy hour.
The rooftop bar, The Crow’s Nest, is another great feature at the hotel, but we didn’t get a chance to make it up there this time around.
It is open Wednesday – Sunday. Next time, a drink on the rooftop is a must!
Photo Courtesy of Visit Kenosha.
Overall, The Stella Hotel & Ballroom knows how to deliver a memorable experience and is an excellent choice for a pleasant trip to Kenosha. Between the exceptional hospitality, proximity to great restaurants and attractions, and comfortable rooms, I highly recommend it.
If you would like to make reservations at The Stella Hotel, click here to find prices.
Do you have any questions about our stay? Ask us in the comments below!
Free parking is available in a lot across the street from the hotel.
The Stella Hotel & Ballroom
5706 8th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 842-2000
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