A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Milwaukee vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Milwaukee or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 undiscovered, friendly, and welcoming city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Milwaukee travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a popular, immense, and unique national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Milwaukee and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
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 Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Milwaukee and Yellowstone National Park are both popular with visitors, Yellowstone National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to Old Faithful. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Milwaukee and Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

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

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

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

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park 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, Yellowstone National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

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

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Milwaukee is popular with students. It's home to a number of colleges and universities, so there is a bit of a college town vibe.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

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

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Yellowstone National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.


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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Milwaukee?

How long in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Milwaukee and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Milwaukee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milwaukee than Yellowstone National Park 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 Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Milwaukee 1-2 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the friendly city of Milwaukee. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the national park of Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Milwaukee. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the popular destination of Yellowstone National Park. 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Milwaukee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the vast national park of Yellowstone National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.


A week in Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Milwaukee is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park, 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, Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Milwaukee $214
    Yellowstone National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Milwaukee is $214, while the average daily cost in Yellowstone National Park is $181. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Milwaukee or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milwaukee

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Milwaukee or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $80

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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 Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $250
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $299
  • Grand Teton and Yellowstone Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $35
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $120
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 4-day Tour with Airport Pickup: $918
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone National Park: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yellowstone and Grand Teton: $33
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $125
  • Ultimate Audio Tours: Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Teton & Banff: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Yellowstone National Park $19

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 Milwaukee and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. And not only is Yellowstone National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yellowstone National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park.

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


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