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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

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 Beaver Creek 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Milwaukee and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Milwaukee and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Beaver Creek has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaver Creek is very popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking, while Milwaukee attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also well known for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for skiing and snowboarding. However, Milwaukee is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Milwaukee is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Milwaukee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good area for its theatre productions. However, Milwaukee is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Milwaukee is not a theatre destination.

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

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

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 Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Milwaukee has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

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

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 Beaver Creek to go shopping. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek is an extremely popular town to visit for families. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

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 Milwaukee or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

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 Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its public transit.

Beaver Creek has some public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

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

Is Milwaukee or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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 Milwaukee Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Both Milwaukee and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Milwaukee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Milwaukee 1-2 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

In Milwaukee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Beaver Creek. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Milwaukee is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the adventurous destination of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the welcoming destination of Milwaukee. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find skiing and food around the adventurous town of Beaver Creek. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


A week in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Milwaukee is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, one week is sufficent for most. 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, Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Beaver Creek? 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 Beaver Creek


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 Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Milwaukee or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek $85

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: $97
  • 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.
    Milwaukee $26
    Beaver Creek $53

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: $246
  • 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: $53
  • Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour : $67
  • Downtown Kenosha Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • 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 Magic: A Private Christmas Lights Tour: $650
  • Milwaukee Marvels: A 2-Hour Private Tour: $483
  • Milwaukee Private Ghost Tour: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Beaver Creek $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 Milwaukee and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek 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 Milwaukee Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.