FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Milwaukee

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: USD 75/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Jun, Aug, Sep

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in East Side

Provides more affordable accommodation and dining options, with a lively atmosphere and proximity to the lake.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Milwaukee

1

East Side

Budget

A lively, eclectic neighborhood known for its independent shops, diverse restaurants, and proximity to the lakefront.

solo travelersnightlifefoodiesbudget
  • +Affordable dining and accommodation options
  • +Great local bars and live music venues
  • +Close to Lake Michigan
  • -Can be noisy at night
  • -Public transport to downtown requires transfers
🏨 The Astor Hotel🏨 Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel🏨 Hotel Greenfield
2

Downtown

Mid-range

The bustling urban core with a mix of business, entertainment, and historic architecture.

first-timersbusiness travelersculturenightlife
  • +Central location with easy access to attractions
  • +Good public transport links
  • +Vibrant nightlife and dining scene
  • -Can be expensive
  • -Less residential feel
🏨 The Pfister Hotel🏨 Kimpton Journeyman Hotel🏨 Hyatt Centric Downtown Milwaukee
3

Historic Third Ward

Luxury

A trendy district filled with converted warehouses housing boutiques, galleries, theaters, and restaurants.

foodiescouplescultureshopping
  • +Excellent dining and shopping options
  • +Charming historic atmosphere
  • +Walkable and vibrant
  • -Can get crowded, especially on weekends
  • -Parking can be challenging
🏨 The Iron Horse Hotel🏨 Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel🏨 Hyatt Place Milwaukee Downtown
4

Walker's Point

Mid-range

A rapidly developing industrial-chic neighborhood with a burgeoning food and craft brewery scene.

foodiesnightlifecouplescraft beer enthusiasts
  • +Excellent and diverse food scene
  • +Home to many craft breweries
  • +Up-and-coming, energetic atmosphere
  • -Can feel industrial in parts
  • -Nightlife can be concentrated in specific blocks
🏨 The Cooperage🏨 Home2 Suites by Hilton Milwaukee Downtown

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 75/day

Hostel bed at The Dubbel DutchUSD 30
Lunch at Milwaukee Public Market (e.g., cheese curds and a sandwich)USD 15
Milwaukee County Transit System day passUSD 5
Explore Brady Street and walk along Lake MichiganUSD 0
Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum (free on first Thursdays)USD 22
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Milwaukee

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

Estabrook Beer Garden

This beautiful beer garden offers a vast selection of German and local craft beers in a stunning setting along the Milwaukee River. It's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors with friends.

foodShorewood (just north of Milwaukee)
🚶

The Bronze Fonz Statue

FREE

A quirky and beloved local landmark, this statue pays homage to the iconic TV character Arthur Fonzarelli. It's a fun, kitschy photo opportunity and a nod to Milwaukee's pop culture connection.

streetThird Ward
🛍️

Milwaukee Public Market

FREE

This bustling indoor market is a foodie's paradise, featuring a diverse range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to international cuisine and local delicacies. It's a lively spot to sample the best of Milwaukee's culinary scene.

marketDowntown
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Milwaukee

More Milwaukee Guides

Full Milwaukee guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers