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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Anchorage?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Milwaukee and Anchorage can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Milwaukee

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

Anchorage

Anchorage is a artsy, nature-oriented, and outdoorsy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Milwaukee and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Anchorage than Milwaukee. While Milwaukee is larger than Anchorage, Anchorage has more sights and attractions for tourists. Anchorage is very popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee attracts visitors for its nightlife. Anchorage is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. It is also well known for Chugach State Park. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Milwaukee and Anchorage.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Milwaukee
Anchorage

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

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

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 Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Milwaukee is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Anchorage is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Around Anchorage visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Milwaukee and Anchorage.

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.

Many visitors go to Anchorage to go shopping. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Both Milwaukee and Anchorage are nice to visit with kids.

Milwaukee is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Anchorage. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

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

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

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 Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

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

Anchorage is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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 Milwaukee or Anchorage Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Milwaukee is a city with good options for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Milwaukee is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city 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 Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.


Is Milwaukee or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Anchorage

Milwaukee is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Milwaukee is somewhat walkable. 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.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Milwaukee and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Anchorage than in Milwaukee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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


  • How many days in Milwaukee or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Milwaukee 1-2 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Milwaukee. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milwaukee has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Milwaukee. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the artsy destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


Five days in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the welcoming city of Milwaukee. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Milwaukee is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Milwaukee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Milwaukee is $176, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Milwaukee and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Anchorage? 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 Milwaukee


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Milwaukee Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Anchorage $27

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Milwaukee or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Milwaukee 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
    Milwaukee $52
    Anchorage $50

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: $96
  • Milwaukee Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $139

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Milwaukee $26
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Milwaukee

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

  • Skip the Line: Museum Admission Ticket - Grohmann Museum: $5.00
  • The Grand Milwaukee Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The Grand Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour through Milwaukee: $6.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Milwaukee by Operation City Quest: $10
  • 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: $10
  • Skip The Line: Harley-Davidson Museum Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option: $22
  • Macabre Milwaukee Walking Tour: $26
  • Shakers Original Historical Ghost Tour: $27
  • Downtown Kenosha Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • Brew City Ghosts: Macabre Milwaukee By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Milwaukee Private or Public Pedal Tavern Tour : $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo: $295
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Anchorage $20

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179


When comparing the travel costs between Milwaukee and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Anchorage?

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

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 Milwaukee or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Milwaukee as well as Anchorage. The summer months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

In July, Milwaukee is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 74°F (23°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milwaukee this time of the year. In the summer, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 321 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Milwaukee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. Milwaukee is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Milwaukee averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

Milwaukee usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Milwaukee gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Milwaukee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Milwaukee during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Milwaukee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Milwaukee. In the winter, Milwaukee is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Milwaukee in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 138 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Milwaukee and Anchorage. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the natural beauty during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during spring. In April, Milwaukee is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 47°F (8°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milwaukee usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Milwaukee gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Milwaukee usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Milwaukee gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Milwaukee

Milwaukee Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)