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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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 Breckenridge 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 welcoming, undiscovered, and friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a breathtaking, adventurous, and scenic ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Milwaukee and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Breckenridge than Milwaukee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Breckenridge is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Milwaukee is more popular for its museums and attractions. Breckenridge is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. Also, Breckenridge is famous for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Milwaukee is well known for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Breckenridge. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Milwaukee is not a skiing destination.


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

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Milwaukee is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Milwaukee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Breckenridge has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

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 Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Both Milwaukee and Breckenridge have notable vibes after the sun sets.

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.

Breckenridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Breckenridge makes a nice vacation spot. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its old town. However, Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Breckenridge. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Milwaukee does not have a historic old town.

Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its hiking trails. However, Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

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

The beauty of Breckenridge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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, Breckenridge is very family-friendly. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

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 Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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 Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Breckenridge is a good ski resort to visit for backpackers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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 Breckenridge Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Milwaukee is a popular place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Breckenridge is not popular with students.


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

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Milwaukee and Breckenridge.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Milwaukee or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

A week in Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

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

Breckenridge is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Breckenridge, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Milwaukee?

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

  • Milwaukee Prices
    USA Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Milwaukee $214
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Milwaukee is $214, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. 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 Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Breckenridge? 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 Breckenridge


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 Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Breckenridge $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 Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge 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 $90
    Breckenridge $119

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.
    Milwaukee $26
    Breckenridge $82

Tours and Activities in Milwaukee

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

  • Skip the Line: Museum Admission Ticket - Grohmann Museum: $5.00
  • City of Neighborhoods: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Milwaukee: $7.99
  • The Grand Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour through Milwaukee: $8.99
  • Haunting Histories: An Audio Tour of Milwaukee‘s Wicked Westown: $8.99
  • Milwaukee Historic Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Milwaukee by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Downtown Milwaukee Walking Tour: $16
  • Milwaukee Morbid Mirrorlight Ghost Tours: $24
  • Milwaukee Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Milwaukee Downtown Ghost Tour - The Shadow of City Hall: $29
  • Kenosha Downtown Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • Milwaukee Morbid Mirrorlight Ghost Tours: $32

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $303
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $155
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Breckenridge $38

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


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


Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Breckenridge?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Milwaukee and Breckenridge, 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.