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

Should you visit Marathon or Milwaukee?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Milwaukee, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a friendly, welcoming, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Marathon and Milwaukee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Marathon or Milwaukee?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marathon. Although Marathon and Milwaukee are popular destinations, Marathon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marathon is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. It is also well known for The Dolphin Research Center. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Marathon different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marathon
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Milwaukee

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

Marathon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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 Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Milwaukee

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Milwaukee.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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.

Is Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Milwaukee

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

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Milwaukee

Marathon is a island 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 Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Milwaukee

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

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Milwaukee?

Marathon
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Marathon or Milwaukee More Beautiful?

Marathon
Milwaukee

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Marathon
Milwaukee

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marathon is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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 Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Marathon
Milwaukee

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

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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 Marathon or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Marathon
Milwaukee

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

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Marathon
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Marathon
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.


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

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marathon or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marathon than Milwaukee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milwaukee than Marathon 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 Marathon or Milwaukee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Milwaukee 1-2

One day in Marathon or Milwaukee?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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.

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.

A weekend in Marathon or Milwaukee?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Marathon. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Marathon or Milwaukee?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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.


A week in Marathon or Milwaukee?

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

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Milwaukee or Marathon?

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

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Milwaukee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Milwaukee $214

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, 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 Marathon and Milwaukee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Milwaukee $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Milwaukee $198
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Milwaukee

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Milwaukee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    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 Marathon or Milwaukee?

Prices for flights to both Milwaukee and Marathon 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
    Marathon $89
    Milwaukee $90

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.
    Marathon $27
    Milwaukee $26

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214
  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89

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
    Marathon $24
    Milwaukee $33

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 comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Milwaukee, 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 Marathon Expensive? and Is Milwaukee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Milwaukee in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Milwaukee. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milwaukee for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milwaukee this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milwaukee during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 321 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Milwaukee. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Milwaukee 74°F (23°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Milwaukee in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Milwaukee. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Milwaukee in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Milwaukee. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Milwaukee fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 174 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Milwaukee. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Milwaukee 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Milwaukee in the Winter?

Both Milwaukee and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Milwaukee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milwaukee can be very cold during winter. Marathon is much warmer than Milwaukee in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Milwaukee fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Milwaukee during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Milwaukee receives 138 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Milwaukee. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Milwaukee 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Milwaukee in the Spring?

Both Milwaukee and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Milwaukee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Milwaukee averages at about 47°F (8°C).

In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Milwaukee. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milwaukee receives 211 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Milwaukee. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Milwaukee receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Milwaukee 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Milwaukee and Marathon

Marathon Milwaukee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 26°F (-4°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 47°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 65°F (18°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 41°F (5°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)