Milwaukee (day-trip)
A laid-back lakefront city 90 minutes north — the striking Art Museum, breweries, and Lake views.
The call
Worth it if you are traveling as a couple and you are traveling solo.
Why
- 01
An easy train ride delivers a relaxed, walkable city with Calatrava's spectacular wing-flapping Art Museum, historic breweries, and a pleasant lakefront — a genuine change of pace.
Our read - 02
The honest catch is that it's a low-key place; it's a worthwhile day if you've already done Chicago's headline sights, not a substitute for them.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Milwaukee (day-trip) works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Milwaukee (day-trip) works.
History and culture matter to you
For history & culture, Milwaukee (day-trip) delivers.
You care about the visual experience
For beauty & photography, Milwaukee (day-trip) delivers.
Think twice if
You only have one day
Short on time? Milwaukee (day-trip) can wait.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, give Milwaukee (day-trip) a miss.
You are watching the budget
On a budget, weigh it — Milwaukee (day-trip) isn't cheap for what it is.
You want the trip to feel easy
For relaxation, Milwaukee (day-trip) is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Train ~$25 r/t + admissions
- Timing
- A full day once you've covered Chicago's must-sees; check Art Museum wing-flap times.
- Booking
- Buy Amtrak tickets ahead; the Art Museum's Burke Brise Soleil opens on a schedule.
- Allow
- Full day
- Accessibility
- The Art Museum and downtown lakefront are accessible.
- Getting there
- About 90 minutes by Amtrak Hiawatha from Union Station.