A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Milwaukee vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Milwaukee or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Milwaukee and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Whistler. Although Milwaukee and Whistler are popular destinations, Whistler has more sights and attractions for tourists. Whistler is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Whistler is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Cloudraker Skybridge. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Milwaukee or Whistler Better for Skiing?

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

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Milwaukee is not a skiing destination.

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

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

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

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Whistler has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Milwaukee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a decent number of breweries around town. There are also wine bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Milwaukee or Whistler Better for Resorts?

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

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

Is Milwaukee or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Around Whistler visitors will find world-class hiking trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Whistler?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Milwaukee and Whistler.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Many visitors go to Whistler to go shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Milwaukee or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Milwaukee or Whistler Better for Families?

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

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

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

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Students?

Milwaukee is a nice place to visit for students. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Milwaukee and Whistler.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Milwaukee or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Whistler is a very walkable village. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Whistler?

In either Milwaukee or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Milwaukee because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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

One day in Milwaukee or Whistler?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. 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.

A weekend in Milwaukee or Whistler?

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.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the adventurous destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Whistler?

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.

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

A week in Milwaukee or Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Milwaukee and Whistler, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Milwaukee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milwaukee than you might in Whistler.

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

Which is Bigger, Milwaukee or Whistler?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Milwaukee and Whistler, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Milwaukee or Whistler?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Milwaukee as well as Whistler. Most visitors come to Milwaukee for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Milwaukee is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 74°F (23°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Whistler. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milwaukee this time of the year. In the summer, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 321 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Milwaukee usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Milwaukee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Milwaukee because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Milwaukee is around the same temperature as Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Milwaukee averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Milwaukee usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Milwaukee gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Milwaukee usually receives less rain than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Milwaukee during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milwaukee this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. It's quite cold in Milwaukee in the winter. In the winter, Milwaukee is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Milwaukee in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Milwaukee often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 138 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Milwaukee usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milwaukee or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Milwaukee and Whistler. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Milwaukee is generally cooler than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Milwaukee average around 47°F (8°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In Milwaukee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milwaukee usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Milwaukee gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Milwaukee usually receives less rain than Whistler. Milwaukee gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Milwaukee