A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Milwaukee for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Key West or Milwaukee?

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

Should I visit Key West or Milwaukee? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a laid-back, quirky, and eclectic town. 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. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a welcoming, undiscovered, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Milwaukee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Milwaukee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Milwaukee is more popular for its museums and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Milwaukee is well known for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Key West different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Milwaukee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Key West has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Key West 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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Milwaukee Better for Resorts?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Milwaukee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Milwaukee Better for Beaches?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Milwaukee Better for its Old Town?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Milwaukee offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Key West is very family-friendly. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

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

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

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

Milwaukee is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Key West and Milwaukee both are notable when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Key West?

How long in Key West or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Milwaukee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Milwaukee?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The city of Milwaukee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Milwaukee?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Key West. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Milwaukee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milwaukee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Milwaukee?

You'll find nightlife and food around the eclectic town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Milwaukee is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Milwaukee?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Milwaukee is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Milwaukee, we can see that Key West 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 Key West Expensive? and Is Milwaukee Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Milwaukee in the Summer?

Both Milwaukee and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Milwaukee for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Key West is a little warmer than Milwaukee in the summer. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the summer, Key West often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Milwaukee. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Milwaukee. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Milwaukee. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Key West is much warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Milwaukee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Milwaukee. The winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year.

It's quite cold in Milwaukee in the winter. In January, Key West is generally much warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Milwaukee. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Milwaukee in the Spring?

Both Milwaukee and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

Key West is much warmer than Milwaukee in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Milwaukee. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Key West