A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Milwaukee for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Milwaukee. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a undiscovered, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Alexandria and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Milwaukee. While Milwaukee is larger than Alexandria, Alexandria has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Alexandria is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Alexandria different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Milwaukee and Alexandria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Milwaukee. There are several unique museums like the Harley-Davidson Museum, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. There's also the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Grohmann Museum as well as outdoor sculpture parks and other cultural and historic museums.


Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Milwaukee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Alexandria has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Milwaukee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The Midwest is known for its artery clogging comfort foods, and Milwaukee is no exception. Cheese curds, fried fish, fruit dumplings, and frozen custard are all popular.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

The vibe at night is good in both Alexandria and Milwaukee.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Milwaukee. You'll find a decent number of breweries around town. There are also wine bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is terrific for its old town. However, Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is well-known for its shopping. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Many visitors go to Milwaukee to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers and shopping malls around town, but if you want some more local vendors, check out the areas around the Historic Third Ward and The Village in Wauwatosa.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Milwaukee offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy a visit to Discovery World, which is a science center with hands-on exhibits. There's also the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Milwaukee Public Museum. Younger kids will also enjoy a stop at Betty Brinn Children's Museum.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Milwaukee is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Take a walk or visit a local restaurant. There are also museums and performances that make for a nice outing.


Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Alexandria is a good city to visit for backpackers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Milwaukee is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a lot to attract backpackers to the area.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Milwaukee. It's home to a number of colleges and universities, so there is a bit of a college town vibe.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

Is Alexandria or Milwaukee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Alexandria can take you anywhere. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Milwaukee. There are buses that travel around town.


Is Alexandria or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Milwaukee

Alexandria is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are relatively compact and walkable. The most walkable neighborhoods are East Side, Riverwest, Brewers Hill, Downtown, Avenues West/Marquette, Third Ward, Walker's Point, and Bay View.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Alexandria or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Alexandria than Milwaukee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Milwaukee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alexandria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Milwaukee if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Milwaukee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Milwaukee 1-2

One day in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the welcoming city of Milwaukee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milwaukee, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Milwaukee, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Alexandria. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Milwaukee, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Milwaukee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Milwaukee or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Milwaukee is $176. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Alexandria and Milwaukee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Milwaukee $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Milwaukee $198
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Milwaukee

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Milwaukee? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Alexandria


Hotels in Milwaukee


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Milwaukee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Milwaukee $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milwaukee

Also for Milwaukee, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Milwaukee - General Mitchell Airport One Way Transfer : $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Prices for flights to both Milwaukee and Alexandria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Alexandria -
    Milwaukee $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milwaukee

For Milwaukee, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Family Fun Food Tour: $80
  • Local Food Tour: $98
  • Milwaukee Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Milwaukee $26

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Tours and Activities in Milwaukee

For Milwaukee, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Sailing Adventure in Lake Michigan (up to 6 people): $128
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Milwaukee Marvels: $249
  • 2-Hour Bus Tour in Milwaukee City: $40
  • Brew City Ghosts: Macabre Milwaukee By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Cream City Cannibal: Jeffery Dahmer Walking Tour: $40
  • Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour : $60
  • Geneva Lake Shore Path: Uncover 21 miles of stories on a self-guided audio tour: $10
  • Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Game Ticket at American Family Field: $11
  • Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Game Ticket at Fiserv Forum: $31
  • Milwaukee Magic: A Private Christmas Lights Tour: $660
  • Milwaukee Marvels: A 2-Hour Private Tour: $491
  • Milwaukee Private Ghost Tour: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Milwaukee $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Milwaukee

Also in Milwaukee, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack: $99


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Milwaukee, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Milwaukee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milwaukee than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Milwaukee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Milwaukee, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Milwaukee?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Milwaukee in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Milwaukee. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milwaukee this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Milwaukee during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of rain as Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Milwaukee. The autumn months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Milwaukee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Milwaukee in the Winter?

Both Milwaukee and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milwaukee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Milwaukee. It's quite cold in Alexandria in the winter. In the winter, Alexandria is much warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milwaukee during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Milwaukee in the Spring?

Both Milwaukee and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the spring, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Milwaukee. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Alexandria

Alexandria Milwaukee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)