Escape from Milwaukee to San Diego on a budget

Escape from Milwaukee to San Diego on a budgetPhoto: Skyscanner
Hoodline
Published on June 05, 2019

Have you been craving a California getaway, without the congestion of LA? San Diego offers plenty of sandy beaches and sunny days, with an even more laid-back vibe and the best border town tacos you can find.

The city’s top-rated local craft brewing industry is a major draw, along with the famous San Diego Zoo, amusement parks and many historic sites from the city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage. And San Diego’s deep-water harbor supports a wide range of coastal activities, including sightseeing cruises, whale-watching and Southern California’s largest sport fishing fleet.

Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Milwaukee and San Diego, at least according to travel site Skyscanner.

Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in San Diego to get you excited about your next excursion. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Flight deals to San Diego

Currently, the cheapest flights between Milwaukee and San Diego are if you leave on Aug. 21 and return from California on Aug. 24. American Airlines currently has tickets for $255, roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had later in August. If you fly out of Milwaukee on Aug. 31 and return from San Diego on Sept. 4, Delta can get you there and back for $256 roundtrip.

Top San Diego hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are some of San Diego’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.

The Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to splurge on top quality, consider The Hotel del Coronado. The hotel has a 4.6-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $290.

The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows (2223 El Cajon Blvd.)

Another 4.6-star option is The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows. Rooms are currently set at $79/night.

The U.S. Grant (326 Broadway)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A third option is The U.S. Grant. The 4.7-star hotel has rooms for $159/night. Set in the heart of San Diego, this hotel is close to Westfield Horton Plaza, Petco Park, as well as the San Diego Convention Center. Other attractions include the San Diego Zoo.

Local restaurant picks

If you're looking to snag a bite at one of San Diego's many quality eateries, here are a few popular culinary destinations from Skyscanner's listings that will help keep you satiated.

Extraordinary Desserts (2929 Fifth Ave.)

Let's start with the essentials: where to satisfy your sweet tooth. For a popular option, check out Extraordinary Desserts, which has an average of 4.7 stars out of 160 reviews on Skyscanner. 

"It is a very nice place to hang out with friends and share some beautifully decorated treats," wrote visitor Roque. "I loved the fresh fruit tartlets — they're so delicious and beautiful to see that you will never want to eat them!"

The Prado at Balboa Park (1549 El Prado)

One of San Diego's most popular restaurants is The Prado at Balboa Park, with 4.6 stars from 133 reviews.

Set in the rich landscape and finely manicured gardens, the Prado Restaurant is located at the historic House of Hospitality in the center of San Diego.

"One of our favorites in Balboa Park," wrote reviewer Sandra. "We love the fried green beans and the potstickers."

Mister A's (2550 Fifth Ave., Twelfth Floor)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is Mister A's, which offers spectacular views and is just minutes from downtown.

"Came here to surprise my brother with a fancy lunch," wrote Makiah. "The place is beautiful, the view is gorgeous and the food is amazing!"

In-N-Out Burger (2005 Camino Del Este)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's In-N-Out Burger.

"Favorite place to grab a burger, and it is so cheap," wrote Kim. "Freshly made fries and milkshakes made with real ice cream round out a great meal!"

Featured San Diego attractions

To round out your trip, San Diego offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.

The San Diego Zoo (2920 Zoo Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is The San Diego Zoo, one of the most prolific and popular zoos in the world. It houses over 4,000 animals from more than 800 species. At over 100 acres, the zoo offers exhibits that run the gamut of the world’s ecosystems: rainforest, savannah, desert, the list goes on. 

Balboa Park (1549 El Prado, San Diego)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Balboa Park is another popular destination. Along with countless green spaces and gardens, the urban park is home to multiple museums, shops, restaurants and, most famously, the San Diego Zoo. 

"Beautiful," wrote visitor Ryan. "Lots to see ... amazing museums. Great family environment. There are performers and vendors."

The Gaslamp Quarter (614 Fifth Ave.)

Finally, consider checking out The Gaslamp Quarter. The hippest area in San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is alive with activity almost every day (and night) of the week. From restaurants to bars, to fashion to art, his really is the heart of fun in the city. Whether you're looking for a casual bite to eat or table service at the hottest club in town, be sure to stop by for a night out on the town.


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.