The Trade: The Official Hotel of the Deer District

By Sue Sveum | Photo: © The Trade

What began with the construction of Fiserv Forum soon became Milwaukee’s Deer District, a year-round destination redefining and revitalizing the heart of downtown — allowing visitors and locals alike to enjoy the best of what the area has to offer. And that elite offering now includes The Trade, a Marriott Autograph hotel borne of a partnership between NCG Hospitality and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Although it’s the official hotel of the Deer District, and mere steps from Fiserv Forum, this luxe boutique hotel is not just for basketball fans. Event planners and attendees with a wide variety of other interests will feel right at home here, too.

When guests arrive, they experience something that truly reflects Milwaukee and that’s where the name originates. “Hospitality is about telling a story,” stresses Rich Lundt, general manager. “The Trade is built on the foundation of Milwaukee’s beginnings as a fur trading post and pays homage to the hard-working tradespeople who built the city — as well as the spirit of modern Milwaukee.”

In fact, elements of the city are reflected in every detail of the design — from the lobby’s grand staircase, mimicking the iconic Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge, to the Cream City-brick accent walls. You’ll find massive brew kettle fixtures hanging in the second floor restaurant and industrial-themed artwork displayed throughout to further honor the city’s tradespeople.

“The 9,000 square feet of sophisticated indoor and outdoor spaces provide the perfect place for a truly unforgettable event,” says Lundt. “And the centerpiece of the meeting and event space is our Founders Ballroom on the second floor.” This 5,800-square-foot room — with its vaulted ceilings and breathtaking views — combines modern elegance with innovative technologies. Created to host conferences, meetings or social events, the space can be divided into five sections to accommodate smaller meetings or breakout sessions. Lundt says it’s perfect for everything from cocktail receptions to meeting breaks, with an adjoining balcony offering cozy fire pits on cool nights.

In addition to the Founders Ballroom, The Trade offers other meeting and event spaces that are completely adaptable and can provide intimate settings for smaller events. These include the Walker Room, Juneau Boardroom, Mezzanine, Home Court and Cream City.

When attending a conference, comfort is key and meeting attendees will find just that at The Trade. “Each of our 207 guest rooms and suites were designed to give guests a uniquely timeless experience,” explains Lundt, “while providing a warm, comfortable ambiance where you can unwind.”

For guests who do happen to be basketball fans, The Trade has VIP suites and an MVP Floor specially designed to accommodate visiting teams. The floor features 14-foot ceilings, California king beds and taller-than-average bathroom fixtures. When not in use by visiting teams, these rooms can be booked by other guests for a unique experience.

And since everyone needs to eat (and drink), meeting planners and attendees will be happy to know they can enjoy food and beverages at several venues:

• Craft features locally sourced ingredients, signature cocktails, and a vast selection of local and international beers.
• Solomon’s Terrace and Lounge offers an engaging atmosphere with shareable small plates, handcrafted cocktails, craft beers and wine.
• Il Cervo (or the deer in Italian) offers Italian cuisine and spectacular rooftop views.

“The Trade is inspired by a clear vision, soul and story,” according to Lundt. “By celebrating the fabric of our city and taking pride in providing amazing guest service, our team gives visitors an authentic Milwaukee experience that merges style and sophisticated comfort with pure Wisconsin hospitality.”

Sue Sveum is a freelance writer based in the Madison area.