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

Should you visit Milwaukee or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park

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

Milwaukee and Yosemite 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 El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Milwaukee and Yosemite National Park are both popular with visitors, Yosemite National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yosemite National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Milwaukee is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Milwaukee and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also home to El Capitan. Milwaukee is popular for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Milwaukee different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

Around Yosemite National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Milwaukee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Milwaukee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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, Yosemite National Park is very family-friendly. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

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

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yosemite National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for students. However, Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.

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

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its public transit.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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

Is Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Milwaukee
Yosemite National Park

Milwaukee is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.


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

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

How long in Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park?

Both Milwaukee and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park than in Milwaukee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Milwaukee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Milwaukee or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Milwaukee offers museums and nightlife. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

The welcoming destination of Milwaukee offers nightlife and shopping. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milwaukee. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the popular national park of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Milwaukee is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Milwaukee. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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, Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Milwaukee $214
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Milwaukee is $214, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Milwaukee $99
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Milwaukee $198
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Milwaukee and Yosemite National Park

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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Milwaukee $38
    Yosemite National Park $41

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 Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

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
    Yosemite National Park $19

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 Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Milwaukee $33
    Yosemite 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Milwaukee and Yosemite National Park, we can see that Milwaukee is more expensive. And not only is Yosemite National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yosemite National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.