Milwaukee is a winning choice of travel destination regardless of the season. In fact, the city’s climate means you can expect well-defined seasons, which promise unique experiences depending on the time of your visit. From lively summer festivals to peaceful winter landscapes, each time of year possesses its own charm. Understanding Milwaukee’s climate a bit better can help you plan the perfect trip tailored to your interests.
So, join us for an overview of Milwaukee’s seasonal weather. And, while we have you with us, please don’t forget to browse our popular Milwaukee City Tours.
Milwaukee’s Climate
Milwaukee enjoys a humid continental climate, which means it experiences warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The city’s location near Lake Michigan plays a crucial role in shaping its weather, helping to moderate temperatures and creating phenomena like the “lake breeze.” This can result in cooler conditions along the shore during summer and milder weather in winter.
Summers in Milwaukee are generally warm, with average high temperatures in July around 81°F (27°C). This season is perfect for outdoor fun and enjoying the city’s vibrant festivals. In contrast, winter can be quite harsh, with January highs reaching about 28°F (-2°C) and lows dipping to around 16°F (-9°C). Snowfall is a regular occurrence, averaging roughly 52.4 inches (133 cm) each year, offering plenty of chances for winter sports as well as cozy indoor activities.
Precipitation tends to be fairly consistent throughout the year, with August and September being the wettest months, each receiving about 3.5 to 4 inches (90 to 102 mm) of rainfall. Thunderstorms are more common in the summer, while winter usually brings snow. Being aware of these seasonal differences can help you choose the best time to visit Milwaukee, depending on your weather preferences and the activities you want to enjoy.
Take a look at our Milwaukee Tours for seasonal tour ideas, from Milwaukee Ghost Tours, perfect for the fall, to our Christmas Lights of Milwaukee Tour.
Milwaukee Season-by-Season
As we’ve said, Milwaukee is a city that wears all four seasons well, offering something special whenever you choose to make your visit. Here’s a taste of what you can expect from each season.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Milwaukee is a time of transition. The snow melts away, and the city gradually comes back to life with blooming flowers and longer, sunnier days. March can still be chilly, with highs around 40°F (4°C), but by May, temperatures rise into the 60s°F (15-20°C).
The season offers some of Milwaukee’s most picturesque moments, such as the cherry blossoms at Lake Park and the fresh greenery along the Milwaukee Riverwalk. Local farmers’ markets begin opening in April, and events like the Milwaukee Film Festival attract cinephiles to historic theaters. Since spring is still considered off-peak for tourists, you’ll find lower hotel prices and fewer crowds. The downside, however, is that the weather can be unpredictable—warm one day and cold and rainy the next.
Learn more by reading Things to Do in MKE in the Spring next.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is Milwaukee at its liveliest. The city buzzes with outdoor festivals, lakefront activities, and bustling beer gardens. Average highs hover in the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C), making it perfect for enjoying Lake Michigan, whether by kayaking, sailing, or simply soaking up the sun at Bradford Beach .
This is festival season, and Milwaukee has no shortage of them. The world-famous Summerfest, the largest music festival in the world, takes over the lakefront for multiple days in late June and early July. The city has also regularly hosted events dedicated to celebrating its international heritage, such as Polish Fest, German Fest, Bastille Days, and a host of other cultural celebrations. The only drawback? Summer is peak tourist season, meaning higher prices and larger crowds. (For help escaping the crowds, read our blog, Milwaukee’s Green Spaces and Parks.)
Fall (September to November)
If you enjoy crisp air and colorful landscapes, fall is a fantastic time to visit. September often retains some of summer’s warmth, with temperatures in the 60s °F (15-20 °C). However, by November, the air becomes brisk, and the trees display vibrant orange, red, and yellow hues.
Autumn is also a great time to experience the city’s beer culture, with Oktoberfest celebrations and brewery events in full swing. Nearby Waukesha and Cedarburg offer wonderful opportunities for day trips to pumpkin patches and apple orchards. One of the best aspects of visiting in the fall is that the summer crowds have disappeared, making accommodations more affordable. We recommend our Haunted History Tour of Milwaukee for those visiting during the fall.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Milwaukee is not for the faint-hearted, but if you learn to embrace the chill, you’ll discover a city brimming with charm. A thick blanket of snow covers the streets, while ice skaters glide gracefully across Red Arrow Park. The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival transforms downtown into a sparkling wonderland.
With temperatures typically hovering in the 20s and 30s°F (-6 to 2°C), Milwaukee winters are indeed cold—making for fewer tourists and some fantastic hotel deals. Furthermore, the city’s array of museums, theaters, and cozy craft breweries provide plenty of opportunities to keep warm. Just be ready for the occasional blizzard and biting winds sweeping off Lake Michigan.
Find more ideas with our Things to Do in MKE During Winter blog.
Activities You Can Do in MKE
For Festival Enthusiasts
If you’re passionate about festivals, summer is your season. Milwaukee’s Summerfest, renowned as one of the world’s largest music festivals, is slated for June 2025, featuring headliners like James Taylor, Hozier, and Def Leppard. Additionally, Polish Fest returns from June 13-15, 2025, celebrating Polish culture with live entertainment and authentic cuisine.
For Sports Fans Visiting MKE
Sports aficionados will find spring particularly engaging. The Milwaukee Brewers kick off their season with the home opener on March 31, 2025, at American Family Field. Basketball enthusiasts can catch the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament sessions on March 21 and 23, 2025, at Fiserv Forum.
For Budget-Conscious Travelers
If you’re looking to explore Milwaukee without stretching your budget, consider visiting during the winter months. The city offers special promotions like Hotel Month, running from January 13 to February 13, where various accommodations provide exclusive packages and discounted rates.
For Cultural and Holiday Experiences
The holiday season in Milwaukee is filled with festive events. The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival illuminates downtown, creating a magical atmosphere. Check out our MKE Christmas Lights Tour to see the festive decorations with the convenience of a tour.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Autumn in Milwaukee provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. The city’s parks showcase vibrant fall foliage, and the milder temperatures make it ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring the scenic lakefront.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Milwaukee aligns with what you hope to experience, whether it’s the lively festival scene, sporting events, budget-friendly travel, cultural festivities, or outdoor adventures. We hope we’ve given you plenty of inspiration!
If you have any questions for us, please get in touch.