Victoria Lupascu 
Located in the center of the Midwest USA and on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers very beautiful views and lush green parks, making it a great place to visit for a romantic getaway or a fun family trip. Jump in and let’s find together the best area where to stay in Milwaukee! Areas run first-timers first, and every hotel is picked for its current Booking.com guest score and its fit to the area and your budget.
Historic Third Ward is the best area to stay in Milwaukee for first-timers: walkable and central, right by the RiverWalk, dining and museums. East Town is best for nightlife, Westown for families, Walker's Point for foodies, and Bay View for a laid-back local vibe.
Read this post because you will learn everything about the best tourist-friendly areas to stay AND best accommodation options in each neighborhood. That’s right – I manually compared all the hotels and apartments in the city and chose the best of the best for each price category/
This way you will be able to understand what area is right for you and book your ideal place in just a couple of clicks!
Milwaukee draws many tourists year-round; that’s why I highly recommend booking your hotel in advance!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are the best places to stay in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with hotels from luxury to budget. They are all conveniently located and have great reviews!
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Check out the map below that will help you visualize all the areas where to stay in Milwaukee that I will talk about in this post:
- Historic Third Ward: for first-timers
- East Town: the coolest area
- Westown: for sightseeing
- WALKER’S POINT & MENOMONEE RIVER VALLEY : for foodies
- BAY’S VIEW : for the local vibe
| Area | Best for | Vibe | Top hotel pick (Booking score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Third Ward | First-timers, dining | Trendy, walkable, on the RiverWalk | Kimpton Journeyman Hotel (8.6) |
| East Town | Nightlife, arts | Central, bars, museums | Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel (9.2) |
| Westown | Families, sightseeing | Downtown-west, attractions | Hyatt Place Milwaukee Downtown (8.7) |
| Walker’s Point | Foodies, breweries | Industrial-chic, dining | The Iron Horse Hotel (8.8) |
| Bay View | Local vibe | Relaxed, residential | Kinn Guesthouse Bay View (8.8) |
$ Milwaukee hotel prices, at a glance
Expect roughly $100 a night for budget stays, around $150 for mid-range, and $200+ for luxury (two adults, checked 2026). Rates jump during Summerfest and the summer festival season (mid-June to early July), so book a couple of months ahead if you are visiting then.
1. Historic Third Ward – where to stay for the first time
Welcome to the place where you can get a taste of Old Milwaukee!
Perfect for any first-time tourists, the Historic Third Ward is filled with friendly locals and has a relaxed, fun atmosphere! You can enjoy a beautiful stroll along the lake, and all the main attractions are within walking distance!
Of course, this is where you’ll find the main attractions, fabulous bars and restaurants, plus some incredible views of Lake Michigan!
You can start your day with a cup of your favorite beverage and maybe some pastries at Likewise Coffee, a really cool and bright place with large windows! Then you’ll be all good to explore the area.
Catalano Square is a great place to start, as it’s easy to reach attractions like the Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse or the Discovery World science museum, which is an amazing spot, especially for families.
You should definitely check out the Milwaukee Public Market, which has countless stalls serving street food, cheese, and fresh fruit!
The town’s festivals and live music events are usually held in this area, so if you’re coming during one of those, definitely check them out!
It is very easy to find something for every taste here, whether you are a history lover, museum enthusiast, foodie, or party person! By staying in Historic Third Ward, you will also be within walking distance of the other areas that I’ll talk about below.
It’s located about 8 miles (a 15-minute drive or rideshare) from Milwaukee Mitchell Airport (MKE); on the free Hop streetcar and fully walkable, so you will not need a car here.
The Historic Third Ward has a great selection of hotels for all budgets, but I highly recommend booking in advance to get the best deals!
Enjoy the city views and a yummy cocktail at the rooftop bar of this hotel that boasts a gourmet restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center! You can also use bikes from the hotel for free to explore the city!
Other accommodation options in Historic Third Ward
This 3-star hotel has a very convenient location, a fitness center, on-site parking, and modern rooms with free Wi-Fi
Set in a restored 1920s building with free hot breakfast, a free evening buffet, an indoor pool and rooftop views over the river
A simple yet classy loft that has a lot of space, a small kitchen, and a stylish beamed ceiling
Things to do in Historic Third Ward
- Go for a walk in Catalano Square
- Explore the Lakeshore State Park
- Go to the Harley-Davidson Museum
- Rent a kayak and have fun exploring the Milwaukee River
- Go shopping at Milwaukee Public Market
- Visit the Discovery World Science and Technology Museum
2. East Town – the coolest area to stay in Milwaukee
Looking for a place near the Historic Third Ward that’s just as cool but with slightly lower prices?
Then East Town is the place for you! As the name suggests, this neighborhood is on the Upper East Side of the town, right on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Known as one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Milwaukee, East Town is the kind of spot where you’ll always find something to do, be it early in the morning or late at night!
The area is always buzzing, and one of the best things about it is that you can find numerous museums and dive deep into Milwaukee’s culture! Make sure you visit places like the Milwaukee Art Museum, which has such a futuristic design, the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center, the Grohmann Museum, and Cathedral Square Park.
I told you, there’s never a dull moment here!
And come nightfall, you can switch from the best art in Milwaukee to the best restaurants, breweries, and clubs! There’s an abundance of those here and in the nearby area of the Lower East Side.
If you like beer then Milwaukee will become your favorite town! When the German immigrants came to this part of the US they brought the beer-making skills too and by the 1850s Milwaukee had tons of breweries!
There’s a really cool one in this area too, called The Brewery that even offers tours! And if you want to continue the night, head over to Room Seven to dance!
Around a 15-minute drive from MKE Airport; East Town is on the free Hop streetcar and an easy walk to the lakefront and the Third Ward.
This luxury, pet-friendly hotel, set just 7 miles (10 km) from Milwaukee Airport, is centrally located and features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a gourmet restaurant, and a bar.
Other accommodation options in East Town
This has a central location in downtown Milwaukee, an art exhibit in the lounge area, and 3 on-site restaurants
Modern and simple hotel that’s super affordable and which offers a free breakfast and Wi-Fi
This unique historical house offers family-friendly rooms, a fully furnished kitchen, and easy access to the attractions
Things to do in East Town
- Go for a stroll in Cathedral Square Park
- Visit the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center
- Enjoy the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum
- Admire the views of Lake Michigan from Veterans Parks
- Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum and Grohmann Museum
- Explore the Yankee Hill area
- Check out the impressive Sculpture Walk of Milwaukee
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3. Westown – where to stay in Milwaukee for families
Now we’re crossing the Milwaukee River from the Historic Third Ward to Westown!
Westown is not as busy as the first 2 areas I mentioned, though Old World Third Street can get pretty busy at times, with lots of bars, pubs, and restaurants.
But besides that, I think it’s a great place for families, as you’re not so close to the city center crowds, and you can find some of the best cheap hotels in Milwaukee (if you’re looking for something more affordable for your family).
You’ll find countless attractions; after all, this is the town’s main museum district! Some unmissable spots are the Milwaukee Public Museum, which has a fun butterfly garden, and the Milwaukee Central Library.
The best way to discover Westown is to walk around the area and take in the beautiful views of the Milwaukee River! You can even take the kids for a picnic in Pere Marquette Park, right by the river.
Westown is in the west part of Milwaukee Downtown and offers many attractions and beautiful views of Lake Michigan. It is the perfect area for where to stay in Milwaukee for sightseeing.
Right near Westown, there’s the Milwaukee Avenue West area, which is packed with restaurants (this is also where Marquette University is located).
About a 15-minute drive from MKE Airport, Westown sits by the Intermodal Station, is served by the free Hop streetcar and MCTS buses, and is walkable across downtown.
You’re going to love the rooms of this fab hotel, which are super comfy, spacious, and come with a seating area! Start your morning with a delicious complimentary breakfast and then hit the gym or enjoy your coffee on the outdoor terrace.
Other accommodation options in Westown
This hotel offers rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a free breakfast, and a fitness center
This centrally located Airbnb offers a room with great amenities, a fully furnished kitchen, and free parking
This family-friendly Airbnb has a central location, comfortable rooms with luxury amenities, and free wifi
Things to do in Westown
- Enjoy a family picnic at Pere Marquette Park
- Try amazing beers at Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery
- Visit the Milwaukee County Historical Society
- See the beautiful historic building, Pabst Mansion
- Learn about history at Milwaukee Public Museum & visit the Streets of Old Milwaukee museum
4. Walker’s Point & Menomonee River Valley – for foodies
If you’re looking for a place where you can relax in Milwaukee’s green parks and eat yummy food in some of its best restaurants, then stay around and read this section!
I’ve combined these 2 areas since they’re right next to each other and complement each other perfectly!
Walker’s Point is a super diverse area (the Latino community is especially large here), with an up-and-coming nightlife and a fab culinary scene! That’s right, you’ll find so many amazing restaurants here as well as some LGBTQ bars.
If you’re looking for a place to start the night, head over to Cielito Lindo for a yummy Mexican meal and then to Sabbatic, a hip place where you can also listen to some live music.
What’s great about it is that it combines Milwaukee’s historic charm with the new modern venues that they’ve added later!
As for the Menomonee River Valley, this is the perfect spot to relax after a day and night of eating and partying in the restaurants and bars from Walker’s Point. There are lots of parks here right on the banks of the Menomonee River, like the Three Bridges Park or Mitchell Park.
Menomonee River Valley is also home to the Harley-Davidson Museum, where you can see some really unique motorcycles, and a casino set in the Potawatomi Casino Hotel!
Roughly a 10- to 15-minute drive from MKE Airport, Walker’s Point is not on the Hop streetcar, but it is a short walk or quick rideshare across the river into downtown, with MCTS buses nearby.
Set near the famous Harley-Davidson Museum and housed in a 100-year-old warehouse, this hotel has a fabulous design! Browns and darks reign over the rooms, and you’ll also find 2 restaurants on-site, a bar and a retail shop too!
Other accommodation options in Walker’s Point & Menomonee River Valley
This restored Art-Deco hotel comes with 3 restaurants, family rooms and a free shuttle service
A comfy and affordable room set in a historic house that comes with a shared bathroom and shared backyard
Enjoy your stay in Milwaukee in this fab loft which offers a spacious lounge area and a kitchen
Things to do in Walker’s Point & Menomonee River Valley
- Grab drinks at Sabbatic
- Go for a walk in the Three Bridges Park or Mitchell Park
- Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum
- Enjoy a yummy meal at Cielito Lindo
- Enjoy some drinks at Great Lakes Distillery & Tasting Room
5. Bay View – where to stay in Milwaukee for the local vibe
Are you always on the hunt for the most authentic places in the towns you want to visit?
Then Bay View may be the right area to stay in Milwaukee! Located 3 miles (5 km) away from the Historic Third Ward, this neighborhood lacks the flocks of tourists, and although you won’t find as many attractions here, you’ll get a real taste of Milwaukee!
As the name suggests, Bay View offers a pretty amazing location on the shores of Lake Michigan, boasting many places where you can catch scenic sunsets like the South Shore Park or the Bay View Park.
You’ll also find lots of independent boutique stores and fab places to eat! The culinary scene is a bit more diverse here, with some cool European restaurants like the Three Brothers and Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant.
The closest area to MKE Airport, about a 10-minute drive, is Bay View; it is residential and not on the Hop, so a car or rideshare is handy, though MCTS buses run up to downtown.
How cool is the design of this hotel? Boasting rooms with industrial aesthetics and large windows, this accommodation is perfect for your stay, as it also has a bar, a restaurant, and free parking spaces for guests.
Other accommodation options in Bay View
A stylish flat with amazing lighting where you can relax in the lounge area and watch some TV
Perfect for 2 or for guests, this affordable accommodation comes with a balcony and free parking
Feel at home in this boho-styled place that has a kitchen with a dining area and a backyard
Things to do in Bay View
- Grab a bite at Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant
- Catch a sunset at South Shore Park
- Enjoy a fun movie night at Avalon Atmospheric Theater
- Shop for vintage jewels at Tip Top Atomic Shop
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$200 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$100 |
| 📍 Best area: | Historic Third Ward |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Kimpton Journeyman Hotel |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Homewood Suites |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Cambria Hotel Milwaukee |
FAQs about where to stay in Milwaukee
🗺️ What’s the best part of Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
Historic Third Ward and East Town are the best parts of Milwaukee! You’ll find amazing attractions, bars, and great hotels like Kimpton Journeyman Hotel and The Westin Milwaukee.
🕺🏻 What are some cool places to stay in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
Historic Third Ward, East Town, and Walker’s Point are some of the coolest places to stay in Milwaukee! In these areas, you’ll find a hip nightlife scene, great restaurants, and incredible hotels like The Iron Horse Hotel.
🍸 Where to stay in Milwaukee WI for nightlife?
East Town (along with the Lower East Side) and Walker’s Point are some of the best areas where to stay in Milwaukee for nightlife! You’ll find great pubs and clubs in all those places.
🛎️ What are the best hotels in East Town Milwaukee?
The Westin Milwaukee and The Arts Hotel are some of the best hotels in East Town Milwaukee! Both have amazing reviews and great facilities.
❌ Where should I NOT stay in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
Neighborhoods such as North Division, Mitchell Park, Franklin Heights, Park West, and Washington Park are known for higher crime rates, so these are not good areas to stay in Milwaukee.
🤔 Is it safe to walk around Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
It is safe to walk around Milwaukee during the day. However, it is better to be careful at night and stick to the main roads. Also, make sure to avoid less touristy areas and quiet streets.
🚶♀️ Is Milwaukee, Wisconsin a walkable city?
Yes, if you stay in areas of Milwaukee Downtown such as the Historic Third Ward, East Town, and Westown, you can easily get around the city on foot.
⚾ Where to stay in Milwaukee for a Brewers game?
You should find a place to stay near the American Family Field, as that’s where the Milwaukee Brewers baseball team plays. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is a great hotel, just a 25-minute walk from the stadium.
🛬 How do you get from Milwaukee Airport to downtown?
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) sits about 8 miles south of downtown, a 15-minute drive. Taxis, rideshares, and a pre-booked private airport transfer are quickest, and the MCTS Route 80 bus runs downtown in around 30 minutes for a couple of dollars. Once you are in town, the free Hop streetcar loops through the Historic Third Ward and East Town.
🌞 When is the best time to visit Milwaukee?
Summer (June to August) is peak season, with warm lakefront weather and festivals led by Summerfest, held over three weekends from mid-June to early July, when hotels fill up and prices climb. Early fall is mild and quieter, while winters are cold and snowy.
Conclusion
Woohoo! You made it until the end of this guide on where to stay in Milwaukee!
After going through all the areas I included in this post, the fun things to do, and the hotels, I’m sure you’re more than ready to start planning your holiday!
Just remember that Milwaukee is a pretty touristic place and it’s better to book your hotels here in advance!
And if you’re still debating which accommodation to pick, you can check out my 2 favorite places below! Both are set in the Historic Third Ward:
- Kimpton Journeyman Hotel – one of the best hotels in Milwaukee Downtown with a rooftop bar and a restaurant
- Homewood Suites – a great hotel with spa facilities and a complimentary breakfast
There you have it!
Have fun exploring Milwaukee and drinking all the yummy beer!
And if you’ve got any other questions, don’t hesitate to drop me a comment below! I’ll be happy to help you out!
Have an amazing holiday in Milwaukee, WI,
Victoria
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