A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Milwaukee for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a resort-filled, family-friendly, and relaxing coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a undiscovered, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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


Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hilton Head Island. Although Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee are both popular with visitors, Hilton Head Island has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hilton Head Island is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee is known for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. It is also home to The Harbour Town Lighthouse. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is very good for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

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

Hilton Head Island has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and 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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is very good for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Hilton Head Island. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Is Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

In Hilton Head Island, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Hilton Head Island is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hilton Head Island attract visitors from all over. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee.

Hilton Head Island has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Milwaukee is a great destination for 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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

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

Hilton Head Island is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Hilton Head Island is a coastal town with good options for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Hilton Head Island makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island 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.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.


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

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options 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 Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options 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.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

For even more information, also check out Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milwaukee than Hilton Head Island 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 Milwaukee.


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Milwaukee 1-2

One day in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal town of Hilton Head Island. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Milwaukee. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

You'll find shopping and food around the family-friendly destination of Hilton Head Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Milwaukee is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the undiscovered city of Milwaukee. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milwaukee has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

You'll find food and shopping around the family-friendly coastal town of Hilton Head Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Milwaukee. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Milwaukee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Milwaukee or Hilton Head Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Milwaukee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hilton Head Island $287
    Milwaukee $214

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $287, while the average daily cost in Milwaukee is $214. 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 Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Milwaukee $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Milwaukee $198
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee? 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 Hilton Head Island


Hotels in Milwaukee


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: Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices and Milwaukee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Milwaukee $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milwaukee

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

  • Departure Transfer from Milwaukee to Milwaukee Airport MKE by SUV: $80
  • Arrival Transfer from Milwaukee Airport MKE to Milwaukee by SUV: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Prices for flights to both Milwaukee and Hilton Head Island 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
    Hilton Head Island $105
    Milwaukee $90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilton Head Island

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

  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Hibachi Dinner Cruise: $117
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milwaukee

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

  • Kenosha Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Milwaukee Food Tour with 5 Local Favorites Tastings & Secret Dish: $99
  • Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Milwaukee: $103
  • Local Food Tour of 5 Delicacies & a Secret Dish: $104
  • Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Milwaukee $26

Tours and Activities in Hilton Head Island

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

  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin and Nature Tour: $300
  • 2 Hour Kayak Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $47
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise: $269
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $47
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • 90-Minute Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head: $47
  • 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island : $269
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour: $52

Tours and Activities in Milwaukee

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

  • 2-Hour Bus Tour in Milwaukee City: $40
  • Christmas Past, Present and Future Light Tour in Milwaukee: $50
  • City of Neighborhoods: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Milwaukee: $7.99
  • Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour : $68
  • Downtown Milwaukee Walking Tour: $16
  • Haunting Histories: An Audio Tour of Milwaukee‘s Wicked Westown: $8.99
  • Kenosha Downtown Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • Kenosha Metal Detecting Tour to Simmons Island Beach: $40
  • Milwaukee Cheese Curd Kayak Tour: $175
  • Milwaukee Downtown Ghost Tour - The Shadow of City Hall: $29
  • Milwaukee Historic Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Milwaukee Marvels: A 2-Hour Private Tour: $1,126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Milwaukee $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Hilton Head Island

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hilton Head Island:

  • Hilton Head's ONLY Distillery Experience: $55

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: $109


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


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee?

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 Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee in the Summer?

Both Milwaukee and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Milwaukee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Milwaukee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Milwaukee during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

Both Milwaukee and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Milwaukee for the shopping scene during these months.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Milwaukee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in October than Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Milwaukee. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Milwaukee can be very cold. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Milwaukee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Milwaukee. The spring months attract visitors to Hilton Head Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Milwaukee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Milwaukee. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Milwaukee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)