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Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association

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  • Home
  • Find Lodging
    • Online Directory
    • Print Lodging Directory >
      • Cover Contest - 2025 Winner
      • Order Guides
    • Featured Properties
    • Online Auction
    • WisconsINN Getaways
  • Employment
    • Career Center
    • Education
  • About Us
    • History
    • Chapters
    • Committees >
      • Volunteer
    • Board of Directors
    • Our Team
    • Contact Us
  • Membership
    • Join Us
    • Lodging
    • Lodging Executives
    • Associate Vendors
    • CVB/Chamber
    • Educational Institutions
    • Students
  • myWHLA
    • Member Login
    • Update Contact Preferences
    • News
    • Events >
      • Calendar
      • Conference & Trade Show >
        • 2025 Schedule
        • 2025 Speakers
        • 2025 Trade Show Exhibitors
        • 2025 Exhibitor Info
      • Legislative Action Day
      • Stars of the Industry
      • Member Webinars >
        • H2B Visa Program Updates
        • 2024 Wisconsin Lodging Forecast
      • Wisconsin Lodging Innsights
      • Women in Lodging
    • Legal Corner
    • Lodging Resources >
      • Advocacy >
        • Action Day
        • WHLA PAC
        • WHLA Conduit
        • WHLA Advocacy Fund
        • Action Center
        • Report Your Local Issue
      • COVID-19
      • Vendor Directory
      • Human Trafficking Prevention
      • Marketing Opportunities
      • Members Only Discounts
      • Member Tutorials
      • Per Diem Rates
      • Publication Archives
      • Room Tax
      • Short-Term Rentals
      • Guides & Manuals
    • Sponsorships & Advertising
    • Scholarships

Our History

Our History

WHLA is proud to be celebrating 125 years of protecting the rights and interests of lodging property owners and operators across our state. Since our organization was formed, we have grown from a small social group to the sixth largest state lodging association in the country. 

The first statewide meeting of Wisconsin lodging owners and operators occurred on September 24, 1896 at the Plankinton House in Milwaukee. At this meeting, the Wisconsin State Hotel Association was formed: a state-wide trade organization of hotel owners and operators representing the multifaceted lodging industry.

Association Milestones

​The name and structure of the association has evolved five times since the Articles of Incorporation were filed with the state in 1927. Each name change symbolizes a historical milestone for the association and demonstrates the importance of an accurate representation of the industry and its members.
Infographic timeline of WHLA's associate milestones. Founded September 24, 1896. Articles of Incorporation filed with the State of Wisconsin with name of
​Today, WHLA’s members include independent lodging properties, branded hotels, management and ownership groups, hospitality vendors, direct marketing organizations, educational institutions, and students. The association continues to serve as a connection and resource for the state’s lodging property owners and operators, and related organizations and businesses. 

By building on the goals and objectives planted in 1896 and cultivated since its inception, WHLA has fulfilled its mission to protect the rights and interests of the Wisconsin lodging industry for the past 125 years. We look forward to our continuous evolution as a strong representational voice for our industry.
WHLA Logo icon. Navy W with green open-ended infinity sign and WHLA initials inside the opening.

Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association
125 N. Executive Dr, Ste 206  |  Brookfield, WI 53005
(262) 782-2851  |  [email protected]
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