The best time to visit Milwaukee, WI, is in the summer, between June and August. In these months, you’ll enjoy bright, blue skies with warm, sunny days and little rainfall. Temperatures are mild, making for pleasant days to stroll around and soak up the city’s charm.
Summer is when Milwaukee truly comes alive, with festivals, concerts, and outdoor events happening everywhere. You can catch the famous Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival, and indulge in mouthwatering food at local street fairs.
If you prefer milder weather and want to witness Milwaukee’s fall colors, September and October are your go-to months. The temperatures cool down, creating a crisp and picturesque atmosphere with spectacular fall foliage. Spring also enjoys mild weather but can be pretty chilly. Bundle up and head outdoors on crisp, clear days.
Milwaukee’s winters are severe, with snowstorms and intense rainfall. Snowstorms are common in December, January, and February, and while not great for sightseeing, these months are ideal for snow sports enthusiasts!
Still not sure when to visit Brew City? Get the low down on the highs (temperatures) and the lows (seasons) with this complete Milwaukee weather guide, including season-by-season and month-by-month forecasts!
Got more travel plans on the horizon? Check out our other weather & when to go guides and our Wisconsin Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
Weather in Milwaukee, WI
By season
Spring
Spring is a fantastic time to explore Milwaukee as the weather starts to warm up, and the city comes alive with vibrant colors and exciting activities.
In spring, which spans from March to May, Milwaukee experiences a transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer. The temperatures gradually climb, ranging from 40s°F to 60s°F (around 5°C to 15°C), making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
March tends to be the driest month in Milwaukee, with the odd shower in April and May, but nothing to dampen your fun! Soak up the awe-inspiring beauty of nature bursting back to life in Milwaukee’s parks and enjoy a lively lineup of events and festivals that celebrate the spirit of Milwaukee.
Explore the city’s diverse culture at the Polish Fest or indulge in delicious food and entertainment at the Greek Fest. The beloved German Fest features traditional music, dancing, and mouthwatering bratwursts.
Spring is a popular time to visit Milwaukee, so expect slightly higher airfares and hotel rates.
Summer
Milwaukee comes alive in the summer with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and fun! From June to August, summer brings balmy warmth and plenty of sunshine. You can expect temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F to mid-80s°F (mid-20s°C to low 30s°C), creating the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Rainfall is typically moderate, with June being the wettest month of the season.
Summer in Milwaukee means outdoor festivals, with plenty to choose from. One of the highlights of summer is the famous Summerfest. This incredible music festival spans several days and features an electrifying atmosphere of live performances by favorite musicians.
Summer is high season in Milwaukee, so flights and accommodation prices are higher. Be sure to book accommodation at the most popular hotels in Milwaukee early to avoid disappointment.
Fall
Fall is a fantastic time to explore Milwaukee as the city transforms into a stunning tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Spanning from September to November, fall in Milwaukee brings a delightful change in temperature. You can expect cooler days and mild evenings, with temperatures ranging from the 60s°F to low 70s°F (high teens to low 20s°C).
You can expect varying levels of rainfall in the fall months. September and October are relatively dry, with showers increasing in November.
Fall is a great time to bundle up and take in the picturesque scenery as the trees display their vibrant autumn colors. Enjoy apple picking and pumpkin patch adventures and catch a Milwaukee Brewers baseball or a Milwaukee Bucks basketball as the season kicks off.
Hotel, airfare, and attraction prices tend to drop during the fall, making it an excellent time to visit for budget travelers. You might find hotel prices are slightly higher on weekends when the Brewers are playing on home ground.
Winter
Winter in Milwaukee may be cold, but it brings a cozy and magical atmosphere perfect for embracing outdoor activities and indoor attractions. Winter in Milwaukee, from December to February, brings chilly temperatures and a fair amount of snow. Expect temperatures ranging from 20s°F to 30s°F (-5°C to -1°C), creating a picturesque winter scene.
December and January are typically the wettest months, with the rain easing off slightly in February. Bundle up and enjoy ice skating on outdoor rinks, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Milwaukee comes alive with magical lights, festive markets, and cheerful celebrations during the winter season. Explore the dazzling displays at the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, indulge in holiday shopping at the Christkindlmarket Milwaukee, and be captivated by the festive atmosphere that fills the air.
The winter season is also the cheapest time to visit the city, so it’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Just make sure to bundle up and carry an umbrella!
By month
January
January in Milwaukee is typically very cold, with average temperatures ranging from the teens to low 30s°F (-9°C to 0°C). It’s the perfect time to bundle up in your warmest winter gear as you enjoy the city’s snowy delights.
Daylight hours in January are shorter, with an average of around nine hours per day. It’s a great time to take advantage of indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and theaters to escape the cold temperatures and limited sunlight.
January is generally considered the off-season, and you may find fantastic hotel and flight deals.
Key events in January
- Gift of Wings Cool Fool Kite Festival
- Ice Bear Fest
- Winterfest at Boerner Botanical Gardens
February
Milwaukee remains chilly in February, with average temperatures ranging from lows of 18.5°F (-7.5°C) to highs of 28.8°F (-1.8°C). Daylight hours increase to 10 hours and 34 minutes, and minimal rainfall. Longer daylight hours are ideal for outdoor activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding.
Accommodation and flight prices are generally reasonable in February, but availability can depend on specific events in the city.
Key events in February
- Burnhearts Mitten Fest
- 4th Annual Sweets and Treats Fest
- Cedarburg Winter Festival
- Mama Tried Motorcycle Show
- Jazz Heritage Festival
March
March in Milwaukee ushers in the beauty of spring with a touch of winter’s charm. As the city begins to emerge from the cold embrace of winter, temperatures slowly start to rise from a subzero cold 28.8°F (-1.8°C) to a wintry 40.3°F (4.6°C).
Daylight hours in March increase, giving you more time to explore and enjoy the city. With an average of around 12 hours of daylight per day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy various activities, from hiking the scenic trails of the Milwaukee County Parks to soaking up the cultural scene in Downtown Milwaukee.
March is typically considered the low season, so you can find great deals on hotels and flights.
Key events in March:
- International Anime Music Festival
- 14th Annual Shamrock Shuffle
- Food & Froth
- MobCraft’s Sour Fest
- 10th Annual Milwaukee Blues Festival
April
April in Milwaukee brings blossoming flowers, warmer temperatures, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring. The city experiences a significant shift towards milder and more pleasant temperatures with lows of 37.9°F (3.3°C) and highs of 50°F (10°C). You can finally swap those heavy winter coats for light jackets and sweaters!
Daylight hours increase in April, giving you more time to soak up the sunshine and explore Milwaukee’s most popular tourist attractions. With an average of around 13 hours of daylight daily, you’ll have ample time to take leisurely walks, go for bike rides, or have relaxing picnics amidst the lush greenery.
April is generally quieter than summer, so you can often find good deals on accommodations and flights.
Key events in April
- Donuts and Coffee Fest
- K9 Carnival
- Milwaukee Film Festival
May
May in Milwaukee is simply enchanting. This month brings the warmth of spring, longer days, and many activities to enjoy. Average temperatures rise from a fresh 50°F (10°C) to an enjoyable 61.7°F (16.5°C), creating a perfect balance between cool and comfortable.
Daylight hours continue to increase to around 14 hours of daylight per day with very little rainfall. Head outdoors, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of this captivating city, and revel in the longer, sun-kissed days. May is also a great month to tackle popular Milwaukee day trips and escape the city to outdoor destinations like Lake Geneva or popular state parks near Milwaukee like Harrington Beach State Park.
Accommodation and flight prices are reasonable in May, and availability is generally good. You’ll find a range of options from budget-friendly to luxurious, so there’s something for every type of traveler.
Key events in May
- Hog Fest
- Cinco de Mayo Family Festival
- Germantown Maifest
- Lager and Friends Beer Festival
June
June in Milwaukee marks the arrival of summer, bringing longer days, pleasant temperatures, and a vibrant atmosphere, and it’s one of the best times to visit the city.
The average high temperature rises from an enjoyable 61.7°F (16.5°C) to a pleasant 71.2°F (21.8°C), and you can expect around 15 hours of daylight per day. It’s time to break out those shorts, T-shirts, and sandals and embrace the summer vibes in the city!
Accommodation and flight prices are beginning to rise with the advent of summer, but prices are generally reasonable.
Key events in June
- Pridefest
- Polish Fest
- Milwaukee Water Lantern Festival
- Lakefront Festival of Art
- Summerfest
July
July in Milwaukee is the epitome of summer in full swing. Days are bright and sunny, with temperatures reaching 77.7°F (25.4°C). Nights are cooler with the mercury hanging around 64°F (17.8°C) but are perfect for enjoying alfresco dining and outdoor festivals. Expect long days of around 15 hours with the odd shower here and there.
Weather-wise, July is perfect for outdoor adventures and has a packed festival calendar. Don’t miss the world-renowned Summerfest, an 11-day music extravaganza in the Historic Third Ward that features performances by top artists from around the globe. The French-inspired Bastille Days is another must-visit event.
July is the warmest month of the year in Milwaukee, so it’s the perfect time to explore its shorelines. Hit up popular Milwaukee beaches like Bradford Beach, the city’s only guarded beach, to get a taste of its lakeside charms.
July is peak tourist season in Milwaukee, and finding good deals on flights and accommodations may be challenging. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Key events in July
- Homegrown Music Festival
- Midsummer Festival of the Arts
- Milwaukee Brewfest
August
Milwaukee is at the peak of its summer season in August, with an average temperature fluctuating between 63.9°F (17.7°C) and 77°F (25°C). While daylight hours have decreased to just under 14 hours, you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy being outdoors.
August is packed with festivals and fun things to do, from exploring parks and gardens to enjoying festivals like the Wisconsin State Fair, Mexican Fiesta, and the Milwaukee Dragon Boat Festival.
This month is also considered the end of the high summer season, so flights and accommodation in August can be more expensive.
Key events in August
- Wisconsin State Fair
- Milwaukee Dragon Boat Festival
- Milwaukee Fringe Festival
- Fresh Coast Jazz Festival
- Mexican Fiesta
September
Summer begins to wane in September, and temperatures cool down significantly, with daytime temperatures dropping slightly from a warm 77°F (25°C) to a pleasant 70.5°F (21.4°C). Evenings become chillier at 57.4°F (14.1°C), and you may see more rain. Don’t let this put you off –wear layers to ward off the evening chill.
Daylight hours begin to decrease in September, but you’ll still have ample time to explore and make the most of your visit. Don’t miss the Milwaukee Film Festival, a celebration of cinema that showcases a diverse range of films from around the world.
September is considered a shoulder season, and prices for hotels and flights are usually more affordable compared to the peak summer months.
Key events in September
- Silver City International Festival
- Milwaukee Film Festival
- Autumn Harvest Festival
October
As the air cools down and the foliage transforms into the golden hues of the fall, October is a wonderful month to visit Milwaukee. October in Milwaukee is a treat for all your senses, with temperatures fluctuating between 45.5°F (7.5°C) and 57.4°F (14.1°C). Expect around 11 hours of daylight but not much rain, so make the most of the last vestiges of the fall.
October also marks the beginning of the basketball season. Take to the Fiserv Forum in the Deer District in Westown to cheer the hometown Milwaukee Bucks to a win alongside raving local fans.
Accommodation and flights are reasonably priced in October, making it a great time to visit. Just be sure to book in advance if you plan to attend one of the city’s popular fall festivals, such as the Milwaukee Oktoberfest.
Key events in October
- Milwaukee Comedy Festival
- Milwaukee Oktoberfest
- Oak Creek Fall Festival
- Wisconsin Whiskey Fest
November
Fall swings into winter in November, bringing colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The mercury drops from a mild 57.4°F (14.1°C) to a frosty 43.7°F (6.5°C) with lows of 33.6°F (0.9°C). Time to unpack that thick winter coat again!
Daylight hours begin to shorten in November, but you’ll still have plenty of time to discover the city’s charm, with an average of around 10 hours of daylight per day. Experience the magic of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, where the city is transformed into a winter wonderland.
November tends to be a less busy time for tourism, so watch out for great deals on hotels and flights.
Key events in November
- Holiday Lights Festival
- Country Christmas
- Christkindlmarket
- Holiday Folk Fair International
December
December brings a touch of winter magic to Milwaukee, and you can expect a month filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a winter wonderland atmosphere. Temperatures drop from a frosty 43.7°F (6.5°C) to a wintry 32.2°F (0.1°C) with lows of 23.9°F (-4.5°C). Daylight hours are shorter, around nine hours of daylight per day, but rainfall is minimal.
December in Milwaukee is filled with holiday spirit and festivities. The city transforms into a magical wonderland with dazzling lights, festive decorations, and joyful celebrations. Don’t miss the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival at Cathedral Square Park in East Town, where you can marvel at millions of twinkling lights, stunning displays, and captivating holiday-themed events.
December is a popular time to visit Milwaukee, so accommodation and flight prices are higher during the holiday season—book in advance to ensure availability.
Key events in December
- Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
- Christmas in the Ward
- German Christmas Market
- Holiday Folk Fair
