Brews, Bites, and Parks: Milwaukee on a Budget

Discover the charm of Milwaukee without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Milwaukee, located in the Midwest, is a vibrant city offering a variety of affordable activities. Visitors can explore the Milwaukee Art Museum, tour the historic Pabst Mansion, and sample local cuisine at the Milwaukee Public Market. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in the city center or nearby suburbs.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Brew City

  • Check into The Plaza Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee and offering affordable rates.
  • Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, known for its stunning architecture and extensive collection of over 30,000 works of art from ancient to contemporary.
  • Head over to Lakefront Brewery for a tour and some locally brewed beer. Don't miss out on their famous cheese curds!
  • Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, a scenic walkway along the Milwaukee River filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • End the day with some comfort food at Sobelman's Pub & Grill, a beloved local spot known for their award-winning burgers and Bloody Marys.
Day 2

Exploring Milwaukee's Neighborhoods

  • Start the day with breakfast at Engine Company No. 3, a historic firehouse turned restaurant serving up classic American breakfast dishes.
  • Drive or take a short bus ride to Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood, known for its trendy shops and cafes. Check out the historic Avalon Theater for a movie or live performance.
  • Continue to the nearby Walker's Point neighborhood, home to various ethnic restaurants and bars. Sample some of the best Mexican food in town at La Fonda On 5th or grab some craft beer at MobCraft Brewery.
  • Head back to downtown and catch a Milwaukee Bucks basketball game at Fiserv Forum or a concert at the iconic Pabst Theater.
  • End the night with drinks and live music at the historic Jazz Estate, featuring local and national jazz acts.
Day 3

Discovering Milwaukee's Parks and Gardens

  • Start the day with brunch at Café Benelux, offering a European-inspired menu and stunning views of the city from their rooftop.
  • Visit the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory ("The Domes"), featuring three greenhouses showcasing diverse plant life from around the world.
  • Head over to the Milwaukee County Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals from all over the world. Don't miss the new Elephant Exhibit.
  • Take a scenic drive or bike ride to the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, featuring over 185 acres of forests, prairies, and Lake Michigan shoreline.
  • End the day with some pizza and beer at Transfer Pizzeria Café, a cozy spot featuring delicious thin crust pizza and an extensive beer list.
  • Milwaukee may be an underrated city, but it's full of surprises and hidden gems. With this itinerary, you'll experience unique neighborhoods, delicious food, and beautiful parks, all while staying within a limited budget. Enjoy your stay in Brew City!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Milwaukee by plane is to fly into General Mitchell International Airport, which is located about 6 miles south of downtown Milwaukee.

Car

Driving to Milwaukee is a good option, with nearby cities including Chicago, Madison, and Green Bay. The main highways into Milwaukee are I-94, I-43, and I-894.

Train

While there is not a direct train to Milwaukee, taking Amtrak's Hiawatha service from Chicago to the Milwaukee Intermodal Station is a good option.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Milwaukee, it is possible to take a boat to nearby cities such as Chicago or Manitowoc and then travel by car or train to Milwaukee.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to Milwaukee is a convenient and affordable option, with the Greyhound Bus Station located in downtown Milwaukee.

Destination

Milwaukee

Welcome to the land of cheese, beer, and brats! Where we take our dairy seriously and our weekends even more seriously!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Milwaukee's 3-Day Romantic Adventure

Milwaukee offers a perfect mix of urban attractions and romantic getaway options. Couples can stroll through the charming Historic Third Ward, take a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan, and have a leisurely beer tasting at one of the city's many breweries. With its beautiful parks, art galleries, and high-end restaurants, Milwaukee is the ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic vacation.

Milwaukee: A Romantic Long Weekend Getaway

Milwaukee boasts a unique charm and atmosphere for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a scenic stroll along Lake Michigan or indulge in some craft beer at one of the city's many breweries. Take in the city's rich history and art scene or simply relax and unwind in one of Milwaukee's many cozy accommodations.

Milwaukee Magic: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Milwaukee, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a perfect combination of family-friendly attractions and cultural experiences. Visit the Milwaukee County Zoo, home to over 3,100 animals, and explore Discovery World, a hands-on science and technology museum. Don't miss the Harley-Davidson Museum, where you can learn about the history of this iconic American motorcycle brand.

5-Day Romantic Getaway to Milwaukee, USA

Milwaukee is a charming Midwestern city located on the shores of Lake Michigan, which is perfect for a romantic trip. Couples can explore the city's historic neighborhoods, take romantic walks along the lakefront or indulge in delicious local cuisine. Additionally, there are plenty of cultural activities available, including museums, art galleries, and the Milwaukee Ballet.