If you’ve been dreaming of experiencing Afternoon Tea at The Pfister with your kids but aren’t sure if it’s the right fit, I’m here to give you a sneak peek!
After years of wanting to give it a try, I finally took the plunge and reserved a time for me and my two daughters (ages 8 and 10), and we had an unforgettable afternoon.
Here’s everything you need to know before booking your own tea time:
Arrival and First Impressions
We used street parking about a block away, which cost around $4-5, but the Pfister also offers $10 Valet Parking, or they will validate your parking if you park in their covered garage.
The moment we walked into The Pfister’s iconic lobby, we were captivated. It’s such a historic and elegant space, and there’s always something to see with travelers coming and going. The lobby’s grandeur—ornate gold details from the 19th and early 20th century—really makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era.
The lobby is an iconic part of Milwaukee, and seeing all the travelers come and go added to the excitement and energy of the space.
After soaking in the beauty of the lobby, we took the elevator up to the 23rd floor and headed to Blu, the chic lounge where Afternoon Tea is served.
The moment we stepped in, the elegance was clear—the deep blue velvet tables, fancy china, sweeping views of downtown Milwaukee, and Lake Michigan instantly set the mood for a special afternoon.
Tea Demonstration & Kid-Friendly Options
The experience started with a delightful tea demonstration. The tea butler guided us through a selection of over a dozen Rishi teas, allowing us to smell each one and learn about its flavors and origins. I opted for Cinnamon Plum, and to make it even more flavorful, I chose a plum garnish to infuse the tea.
For the kids, they also offered a teapot of either apple cider or hot cocoa—perfect for younger ones who may not be into tea yet. My 10-year-old chose apple cider, and my 8-year-old went for the hot cocoa, which came with marshmallows, of course!
The View and Atmosphere
As we waited for our drinks, we soaked in the breathtaking view of the city and Lake Michigan. The Blu lounge has a fancy yet relaxed ambiance, and we loved peeking out at the skyscrapers and watching the boats on the lake while chatting together.
Finger Sandwiches and Pastries
Then came the long-awaited silver two-tiered tray of delectable delights, which felt like something straight out of a storybook. The girls were served a kid-friendly selection of turkey and cheese sandwiches, mini hot dog wraps, and a variety of sweet treats. Every bite was delicious!
As for me, I loved the scones, especially paired with the spreads and jams they provided. Everything was beautifully presented and incredibly tasty. What’s great is that even though the tea and treats were fancy, the environment wasn’t intimidating—it was special, but welcoming.
Tips for Parents
- Reserve ahead: Afternoon Tea at The Pfister is a popular experience, especially on weekends and holidays, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred time and makes the day stress-free.
- Dress code: The vibe is fancy but not stuffy. I wore business casual pants and a floral blouse, while my girls wore leggings, nice sweaters, and shoes in good condition. While it’s important to dress up a little, we felt perfectly at home with our choices.
- Time commitment: The entire experience took about 90 minutes—just long enough to feel luxurious without pushing the limits of the kids’ attention spans.
- Ages: I’d recommend this experience for children 6 and up, depending on their ability to sit still and enjoy the atmosphere. My daughters, ages 8 and 10, were the perfect ages for this special outing.
Nearby Attractions for a Full Day of Fun
If you’re looking to extend your day out, The Pfister is conveniently located near family-friendly attractions like the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, and the Milwaukee Art Museum. You can easily turn your tea date into a full day of fun and exploration!
The Pfister is also directly on the route of The Hop, Milwaukee’s free streetcar service. It’s a fun and convenient way to explore the city with kids, and we’ve even put together a post featuring 10 kid-friendly stops along The Hop route. Be sure to check that out to plan the rest of your day!
Final Thoughts
Afternoon Tea at The Pfister was everything I hoped it would be—a luxurious yet family-friendly experience that left both me and my girls feeling like royalty. It’s a perfect outing for parents and kids who want to enjoy something unique together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable afternoon, this is an experience you won’t forget.
So, if you’ve been on the fence about whether to bring your kids to Afternoon Tea at The Pfister, I say go for it! It’s a beautiful way to share something special and create lasting memories.
Would your kids love the fancy tea experience? Let me know if you decide to give it a try! You can email me at calie@mkewithkids.com
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
