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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Monterey?

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

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Milwaukee and Monterey: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Milwaukee and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Monterey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monterey is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey 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 Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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 Milwaukee or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milwaukee
Monterey

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

Monterey has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey 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.

Monterey has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Milwaukee or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey is a city 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 Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Milwaukee or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey is a city with good options for the beache. However, Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Monterey. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Monterey?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey 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.

Monterey is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Milwaukee or Monterey Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Monterey

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

Monterey is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Monterey

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

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Monterey

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

Monterey is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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 Monterey Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Monterey

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

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

Monterey is not popular with students.


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

Milwaukee
Monterey

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Milwaukee and Monterey.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Milwaukee or Monterey a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Monterey

Monterey is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around 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 Milwaukee Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Monterey?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Milwaukee or Monterey?

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.

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


A weekend in Milwaukee or Monterey?

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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. 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.

A week in Milwaukee or Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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.


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, Monterey 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 Monterey is $170. 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 Monterey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Monterey $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Monterey $180
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Monterey

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Monterey? 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 Monterey


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 Monterey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Monterey $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Milwaukee or Monterey?

Prices for flights to both Monterey 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
    Monterey $56

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Monterey

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

  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Milwaukee $26
    Monterey $27

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

Tours and Activities in Monterey

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

  • Big Sur: Sightseeing Tour with 4 to 5 Stops: $125
  • California: Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $40
  • From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Day Tour: $114
  • Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise: $95
  • Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour: $70
  • Monterey Cannery Row: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour: $120
  • Monterey Fisherman's Wharf & Presidio Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • Monterey Peninsula Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Monterey Peninsula Sightseeing Tour along the 17 Mile Drive: $115
  • 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour: $79
  • 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach E-Bike Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Monterey $21

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 Monterey

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

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $150


When comparing the travel costs between Milwaukee and Monterey, we can see that Milwaukee 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 Monterey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Monterey?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Milwaukee and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Milwaukee or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Milwaukee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Milwaukee is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Milwaukee in July average around 74°F (23°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Milwaukee usually receives more rain than Monterey. Milwaukee gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C) 
    Monterey 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Milwaukee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Milwaukee for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Milwaukee is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 53°F (12°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Milwaukee gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C) 
    Monterey 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Milwaukee and Monterey. Many visitors come to Milwaukee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milwaukee can get quite cold in the winter. Milwaukee is much colder than Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Milwaukee averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Milwaukee usually receives less rain than Monterey. Milwaukee gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C) 
    Monterey 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Milwaukee as well as Monterey. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches.

In the spring, Milwaukee is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Milwaukee in April average around 47°F (8°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Milwaukee gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C) 
    Monterey 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Monterey and Milwaukee

Milwaukee Monterey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Mar 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm)
Apr 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
May 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm)
Nov 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm)