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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a picturesque, idyllic, and scenic area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Milwaukee and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Napa Valley than Milwaukee. While Milwaukee is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Napa Valley is more popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee is known for its museums. Napa Valley is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also home to Louis M. Martini Winery. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Milwaukee is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is well-known for its shopping. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Both Milwaukee and Napa Valley are good 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 Napa Valley. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Milwaukee or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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 Napa Valley Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Milwaukee is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.

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

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Milwaukee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Milwaukee or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Napa Valley

Milwaukee is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.


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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Milwaukee or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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


  • How many days in Milwaukee or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Milwaukee 1-2 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the welcoming city of Milwaukee. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the area of Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Milwaukee. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Napa Valley. 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 area has to offer. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

The welcoming city of Milwaukee offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic area of Napa Valley. 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 food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Milwaukee. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Napa Valley 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, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62

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
    Napa Valley $28

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: $248
  • 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: $12
  • 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 Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Napa Valley $66

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 Napa Valley

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

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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


Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Napa Valley?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Milwaukee and Napa Valley, 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 Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Milwaukee and Napa Valley. 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 Napa Valley this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milwaukee usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Milwaukee gets 321 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milwaukee usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Milwaukee as well as Napa Valley. The shopping scene are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. In the autumn, Milwaukee often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Milwaukee or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Milwaukee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Milwaukee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Milwaukee. Milwaukee is much colder than Napa Valley in the winter. The daily temperature in Milwaukee averages around 21°F (-6°C) in January, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Milwaukee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley during winter. Milwaukee gets 138 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Milwaukee usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Milwaukee or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Milwaukee during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. In the spring, Milwaukee often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Milwaukee gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Milwaukee

Milwaukee Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)