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After long being considered Chicago's little sibling, Milwaukee has finally come into its own as a travel worthy destination in its own right. In 2024, it made our Readers’ Choice Awards list of the best big cities in the US, ranking third—just behind San Diego and Chicago. Some of the best things to do in Milwaukee also make up the many reasons to visit: A growing restaurant scene, plenty of culture from museums and festivals, overall walkability, and enough city amenities for the Midwest gem to truly feel desirable. This is officially no longer just a small town, and with so many local colleges and a venerated art museum, there is strong curiosity and willingness to embrace the new and cater to the city’s growing younger population that has been steadily growing for the past decade.

So much more than just a day trip from Chicago, Milwaukee has many (if not all) of the same qualities that make other cities on this list buzz—and then some.

Columbus, Ohio; Memphis, Tenn.; and Milwaukee have some of the fastest commutes, clocking in around 22 minutes one way, according to a new analysis of federal data looking at cities.

For a culture-filled Midwestern getaway, look no further than Milwaukee. While the city is known for its cheese curds and beer, it offers way more than that.

Milwaukee features some of the lowest living wages, rental costs and unemployment rates among adults ages 16 to 19. It also offers a large selection of nearby colleges, including three schools within one mile.