Title: Smoke and Mirrors: A Terrible Experience at The Knickerbocker on the Lake in Milwaukee

Location is not everything.

I recently had the unfortunate experience of staying at The Knickerbocker on the Lake in Milwaukee, and I must say that my overall impression was far from positive. From the very beginning, my booking experience left much to be desired. Despite having a 25% off promotion, I was informed of black-out dates that were conveniently not stated on the booking slip or the website. When I called to inquire, I was given a higher rate over the phone. However, when I decided to book online instead, I found that the rate was actually cheaper. This kind of inconsistency and lack of transparency was a red flag from the start.

As I arrived at the hotel, the first issue arose when parking in front of the building was virtually impossible. I was forced to park several blocks away and walk back to the hotel, which was an inconvenience, especially with luggage in tow. Adding insult to injury, I noticed a complete absence of luggage racks upon entering the premises. It seemed like a small detail, but it reflected the lack of attention to guest comfort and convenience.

The real nightmare began at the front desk. The agent I encountered was not only rude and dismissive but also seemed visibly annoyed by my presence. I felt unwelcome and inconvenienced, which is the last thing one expects during a honeymoon/vacation. When I asked about parking options, I was informed that it would cost an additional $20 per day. Frankly, the idea of paying that much for a non-secured parking area, exposed to the elements and potentially accessible to anyone, was absurd. The hotel was clearly trying to nickel and dime its guests, and this exorbitant fee was in no way justified by the location.

To make matters worse, the room itself was disappointing. It was small and far from clean. I could immediately detect the smell of mold emanating from the air conditioning, which was not only unpleasant but also a health concern. Mirrors and other touch surfaces were visibly dirty, and I even discovered personal items left behind by previous occupants. The lack of attention to cleanliness and maintenance was simply unacceptable.

Additionally, the room was not turned down during my stay, despite my request and the hotel's knowledge that I would be working during my time there. The Wi-Fi was also unreliable and insecure in my room, prompting me to request a different wifi login room. The alternative room, on a different floor, had a weak signal, making it difficult for me to stay connected. It was clear that the hotel's claim of providing amenities and services fell flat in reality.

Speaking of services, despite the hotel having a restaurant attached, there was no room service available. This was highly inconvenient, especially when considering the prices at the restaurant, which were outrageously inflated. The lack of reasonable pricing and the absence of basic amenities within the hotel only solidified my impression that The Knickerbocker on the Lake is nothing more than a deceptive trap.

All in all, my experience at The Knickerbocker on the Lake was a complete disaster. The initial booking issues, rude front desk staff, lack of cleanliness and maintenance in the room, along with the absence of essential amenities and overpriced services, made it clear that this hotel is not worth the hype. I strongly advise anyone considering a stay here to seek out alternative accommodations. My partner and I will certainly never return to this establishment again. Your guest in room 315 July 9th - July 11th