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

Should you visit Boston 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 Boston 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.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a friendly, welcoming, and undiscovered city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Boston and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Milwaukee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Milwaukee are roughly the same size, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Boston different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Theater?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Milwaukee is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Milwaukee is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Milwaukee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Milwaukee is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Milwaukee is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Milwaukee Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Milwaukee Better for its Old Town?

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

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Milwaukee?

Both Boston and Milwaukee are nice shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Milwaukee. 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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Christmas?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Milwaukee does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Milwaukee does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Milwaukee Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Milwaukee does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Milwaukee does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Boston is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Milwaukee. 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.

Is Boston or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Boston is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Boston is a good city to visit for backpackers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

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 Boston or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Boston is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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

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

Boston 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 Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Boston or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Boston 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 Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Boston?

How long in Boston or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Boston or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Boston than Milwaukee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Milwaukee. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.

One day in Boston or Milwaukee?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Milwaukee. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Milwaukee?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Milwaukee is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Milwaukee?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milwaukee. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Milwaukee?

Boston 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the undiscovered destination of Milwaukee. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Milwaukee, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Milwaukee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Milwaukee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Milwaukee 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Milwaukee.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Milwaukee?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Milwaukee. When comparing the sizes of Boston 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 Boston or Milwaukee?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or Milwaukee in the Summer?

Both Milwaukee and Boston during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Boston is around the same temperature as Milwaukee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boston in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 74°F (23°C).

In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boston. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Milwaukee. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in July than Milwaukee. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Milwaukee. The autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year.

In October, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 54°F (12°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Boston usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Milwaukee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boston as well as Milwaukee. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston 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 Boston in the winter. Boston is much warmer than Milwaukee in the winter. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 29°F (-2°C) in January, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Milwaukee. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Milwaukee in the Spring?

Both Milwaukee and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Boston is around the same temperature as Milwaukee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boston in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 47°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milwaukee during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Boston