About The American

A Return to the Good Life

Our journey began not with blueprints, but with a simple question:

Why can’t a hotel stay feel like being welcomed back to a simpler time?

At The American, we believe a hotel should be more than just a convenient place to sleep; it should be a vibrant backdrop for your life’s best moments. We are passionate curators of these moments, dedicated to transforming your time with family and friends into a collection of unique, fun memories that you’ll carry long after you’ve returned home.

Our Manifesto

We believe in connection. In a world that is always "connected" digitally, true human connection can feel rare. We believe in creating a space that fosters the good, old-fashioned kind—with picnics on the lawn, impromptu dances, and the music you love drifting through the air.

We believe that newer isn’t always better. We believe it is time for the pendulum of trend to swing back to the basics. We believe in the beauty of the past, in unearthing the charm of the 1950s and 60s, and blending it with the comfort of today. We believe in "spaces with soul"—rooms designed not just to be looked at, but to be lived in.

We believe in restoration. We believe that a getaway should do more than just entertain you; it should restore you from today and ready you for tomorrow. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a much-needed friends' getaway, or a quiet solo retreat, we believe everyone deserves a seat at our table.

Curated, Not Cloned

You won’t find a generic, one-size-fits-all experience here. Instead, The American is a living testament to the history and enduring spirit of Williams Bay.

Once the homestead of the original founder, Captain Israel Williams, this location has seen the Bay transform from an early pioneer settlement to a family destination, and finally to the sweet, charming motel culture of the mid-century. To celebrate this heritage, we have carefully curated each suite to be inspired by a classic movie—a nod to a simpler time of beach parties and dressing to the nines.

From unexpected delights like a movie under the stars or a signature cocktail inspired by local lore, to the simple joy of a thoughtfully prepared picnic basket for a day of exploration, we specialize in the details.

The American is where the past and present meet, welcoming a new generation of wanderers to add their own chapter to its story.

Welcome to The American.

Welcome to a life well-loved.