Top reasons to visit Milwaukee
- Vibrant Arts Scene: Milwaukee boasts a rich cultural landscape with numerous art galleries, museums, and engaging theatre performances, perfect for art enthusiasts.
- Brewing Heritage: Explore the city’s renowned breweries, showcasing Milwaukee’s historic brewing traditions and offering unique tasting experiences.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the city's beautiful urban parks and scenic bike paths, ideal for relaxation and adventure alike.
- Diverse Neighbourhoods: Discover the charm of Milwaukee's lively districts, each offering unique shops, eateries, and local culture.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, including boutique hotels and friendly bed and breakfasts, catering to all travellers.
Find great hotels in Milwaukee
Discover the charm of Milwaukee, where a diverse array of accommodations awaits to suit every traveller’s needs. From boutique hotels with unique character to welcoming bed and breakfasts, you’ll find options that cater to business travellers and pet enthusiasts alike. Enjoy an LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere while exploring top-rated hotels, reading insightful reviews, and finding the perfect room for your stay in this vibrant city.
- Red Roof Inn Milwaukee – Airport/Oak Creek: This budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travellers looking for a pet-friendly experience. Located near Milwaukee Airport, it provides easy access to the city’s attractions. The hotel features essential amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking. With its welcoming atmosphere, guests can appreciate the pet policy that allows some pets onsite, making it an excellent option for those travelling with furry companions.
- Extended Stay America Select Suites - Milwaukee - Wauwatosa: This budget-friendly accommodation caters to those seeking a longer stay. Situated in Wauwatosa, a suburb of Milwaukee, the hotel offers spacious suites equipped with kitchen facilities, making it ideal for self-catering guests. The property is also pet-friendly, welcoming dogs and cats while ensuring a comfortable environment for all. With amenities such as complimentary breakfast and laundry facilities, this hotel balances convenience with a homely atmosphere, perfect for extended visits.
- Comfort Inn Waukesha - Milwaukee West: Rated 8.4 out of 10, this budget-friendly hotel is suitable for families, business travellers, and pet owners alike. Located in Waukesha, it offers a variety of amenities including free breakfast, a fitness centre, and meeting rooms for business needs. The hotel’s family-friendly features, such as complimentary cribs, ensure a comfortable stay for guests with children. With a pet policy that accommodates dogs, it’s a versatile choice for various types of travellers looking to explore the Milwaukee area.
Where to stay in Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers a delightful blend of vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural opulence, perfect for outdoor adventures and family-friendly vacations. Explore the bustling breweries that showcase the city's rich brewing heritage, while enjoying the warm atmosphere created by friendly locals. With convenient access to urban oases and romantic spots, your visit promises unforgettable experiences in this charming metropolis. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Milwaukee and its surrounding areas.
- Menomonee Falls: Nestled in the vicinity of Milwaukee, Menomonee Falls boasts a charming blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. This city is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as golfing and shopping at its local malls. The area features scenic lakes and well-maintained sports facilities, making it perfect for those seeking recreational pursuits. With peak visitor numbers from April through July, Menomonee Falls is an attractive destination for a vibrant city experience, particularly for family-friendly outings.
- Franklin: Located near Milwaukee, Franklin is a city that invites visitors to explore its rich array of recreational parks and live entertainment options. Known for its outdoor and sports experiences, this area is particularly popular during the warmer months, attracting tourists with its theatres and music concerts. The presence of local stadiums and picturesque lakes adds to its appeal, making Franklin a delightful destination for families and sports enthusiasts alike. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere throughout the year, with peak times in spring and summer.
- East Town: Situated within the Milwaukee area, East Town is a vibrant neighbourhood that caters to families, couples, and romantics alike. The summer months witness an influx of visitors eager to enjoy its theatres and music concerts, while the urban parks offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation and leisure. East Town is well-known for its educational venues and event spaces, providing a rich cultural experience for travellers. With its charming blend of attractions and amenities, East Town is an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in local life.
Things to do in Milwaukee
Shopping
At the Milwaukee Public Market, you'll discover a diverse selection of local artisan goods, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. For a broader shopping experience, head to Mayfair Mall, where you can explore a variety of popular retail stores and eateries in a comfortable setting.
Recreation
Explore the serene atmosphere at the Milwaukee Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga classes. Enjoy the tranquil gardens for a peaceful stroll, or join a meditation session to unwind and reconnect with yourself amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
Adventure
The Milwaukee Mile Speedway offers exhilarating motor racing experiences, where you can feel the adrenaline rush as cars speed around the track. For a family-friendly adventure, the Sky Safari cable car gondola glides above beautiful landscapes, while the Sky Trail zipline ropes course provides thrilling outdoor challenges amidst stunning views.
Nightlife
Milwaukee’s nightlife boasts vibrant bars like the trendy Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery and live music at The Rave/Eagles Ballroom. For a more relaxed evening, visit the charming Woodman’s Food Market for local flavours and craft beers. Explore the city's lively atmosphere and enjoy the diverse offerings.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers numerous free attractions, such as the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Veteran's Park, making it easy to explore without spending much. For transport, consider using the bus or biking, both of which are cost-effective options. The most affordable time to visit is from November to January, particularly on Mondays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. To save on accommodation, use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Milwaukee are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Milwaukee is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Milwaukee is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can easily organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type – for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel reservation in Milwaukee with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers a delightful mix of outdoor, family, and romantic experiences, making it an ideal destination for various types of travellers. Notable points of interest include urban parks, art museums, and arts centres, which cater to those seeking cultural enrichment and engaging outdoor activities. Whether you're exploring the vibrant arts scene or enjoying the natural beauty, Milwaukee promises memorable adventures for everyone.
- Wisconsin State Fair Park: Experience the lively atmosphere of Wisconsin State Fair Park, a vibrant fairground that showcases local culture and community spirit. With outdoor activities and family-friendly events, it offers a delightful glimpse into Wisconsin's agricultural heritage and traditions.
- Harley-Davidson Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of one of America’s most iconic motorcycle brands at the Harley-Davidson Museum. With interactive exhibits and a collection of classic bikes, visitors can explore the evolution of this legendary brand and its impact on American culture.
- Milwaukee Art Museum: The Milwaukee Art Museum captivates with its stunning architecture and diverse collection of art. From contemporary pieces to historical works, the museum reflects the city’s cultural vibrancy, making it an inspiring destination for art enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Milwaukee
The best time to visit Milwaukee is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Milwaukee
Flying into Milwaukee offers two primary airport options. Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell International) is situated 9.7km from the city centre, with nearby hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Milwaukee Downtown, The Muse Gallery Guesthouse, and Home2 Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Airport, all providing convenient access to the airport. Alternatively, Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare International) is 117.5km away, featuring hotels such as Eaglewood Resort and Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago - Oak Brook, and Hyatt Regency Schaumburg Chicago. For those considering Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway International) located 140.0km from Milwaukee, notable hotel options include The Peninsula Chicago and Swissotel - Chicago.