Hotel appears very nice. Was there for a friends wedding. In a packed bar I asked for a drink (ave price $6.00) The bartender after numerous attempts to get his attention took my 10.00 and then in passing asked if I wanted change. It was packed and I was caught off guard thinking the drinks were more expensive. later at another bar in the hotel the drink was $6.00. Are the bartenders suppose to try to rip off guests?

My sister and I stayed here for my bachelorette party night. We went out on the East Side of Milwaukee and chose the Astor due to its proximity. Little did we know how accomodating they would be! The hotel shuttle took us to the restaurant for dinner where we met my friends. The hotel bartenders were fabulous. The only reason I don't give this restaurant 5 stars is because the rooms are out of date - old 24 inch Zenith TVs and ice only available on the first floor were the main drawbacks. There is certainly some charm to the antiquity of the place, however. I would recommend it to anyone.

Very pleasant place to stay. In a great neighborhood downtown.

The Astor came recommended by two separate friends who clearly have not been back to Milwaukee in the 5+ years since college. Based on their description and the pictures I was expecting cute, historic, boutique hotel. Having stayed at other chains in Milwaukee for under $100, the price ($120+) seemed appropriate based on location, etc.
The room was small and bare, the small didn't bother me but the one whole wall was bare expect for a TV which made the room feel very sparse.
The temperature was controlled by an in-window air conditioner unit - this wouldn't normally bother me but made me unhappy when coupled with the other items and per night cost.
The wall near the ceiling looked as though a wallpaper border had recently been removed leaving a dark, smoky stain which coupled with the peeling paint above the window left me unhappy the minute I walked into the room.
The bathroom door did not shut unless you put your weight behind your shoulder, and the shower constantly retained cold water puddles making it feel dirty and unclean.
The bed was comfortable enough and to the naked eye appeared clean.
There was no in-room concierge book to let us know anything about the hotel, the area or Milwaukee in general.
While the staff was ultimately helpful with information, they provided nothing unsolicited - this includes everything from the included morning breakfast (which we stumbled upon the next morning) to the available hotel shuttle to local attractions.
With a little work this hotel could be really cool, but right now they're a ways from that. I would rather pay the nearly $200 rate to stay at the other chains than do this again and would not recommend to family / friends.
If you're just looking for a place to sleep check out the under $100 options about 10 minutes from downtown. If you're looking to spend time in your room upgrade to the Hilton or Loft options that are right downtown.