A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Milwaukee vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

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 Grand Canyon National Park 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 friendly, welcoming, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park. Although Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park are popular destinations, Grand Canyon National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grand Canyon National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. It is also well known for the sunset views. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Milwaukee is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Milwaukee. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Milwaukee is a good destination for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Grand Canyon National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Milwaukee is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park are nice 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 Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Grand Canyon National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Milwaukee is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Grand Canyon National Park

Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park are nice when it comes to walkability.

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.


For even more information, also check out Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Milwaukee 1-2 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Milwaukee, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this undiscovered destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find around the national park of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Grand Canyon National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Milwaukee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the gorgeous destination of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Milwaukee. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the striking national park of Grand Canyon National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Milwaukee. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park 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 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, Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Milwaukee $214
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Milwaukee is $214, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Grand Canyon National Park? 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 Grand Canyon National Park


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 Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Milwaukee $26
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

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

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $136
  • Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Hiking Tour • South Kaibab Trail: $179
  • Grand Canyon Day Hiking Private Below the Rim Tour: $689
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $199
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $187
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour with Lunch included: $170
  • Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Grand Canyon National Park $11

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 Milwaukee and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Milwaukee Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.