A lot of publications publish a lot of rankings. This we know. And when it comes to rankings that use terms like “Underrated Cities” “Unexpected Travel Destinations” and “Lakefront Gems,” Milwaukee tends to pop up semi-frequently. So when our city makes one of these ranking lists, all of us local publications tend to write about it. That’s just the way it is – we like when Milwaukee gets a national shoutout. And this week, once again, we got one.
Condé Nast Traveler held its 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, and in the “Best Big Cities” category, you’ll find lovely ol’ MKE at No. 3 on the list, beating out San Francisco, New York City, Nashville and Miami, among other big-hitters.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Here’s what the Nasts of Condé have to say about us:
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. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city’s surprisingly eco-diverse location makes it a hotbed of locavore cuisine. A spate of award-winning restaurants have helped Milwaukee shed its beer-and-cheer reputation, though you can still get your fill of both between fine dinners. The dedicated revitalization of neighborhoods such as the historic Third Ward and Lincoln Village has also kept visitors busy with specialty shops, galleries, and more creative businesses.
Our first thought on reading this was, to be honest, “Does anyone call the South Side, Lincoln Village?” Honest question. Is that a term people in Milwaukee use? Because it’s not something we’ve ever heard. But ok.
Otherwise, we totally agree. We’re all about that locavore life – just check out our Best Restaurants list.
But, of course, no article about a ranking is complete without looking at the folks who beat us. The No. 2 spot went to San Diego, and the No. 1 spot went to – sigh – Chicago. That stings. But hey, third’s still pretty good.
Wisconsin also showed up in a few other categories in the awards. Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel took fourth and the Pfister Hotel took second in top Midwest hotels – and The Delafield Hotel polled at No. 14. The American Club was voted tenth best destination spa in the U.S., and the Dells’ Sundara Inn & Spa ranked No. 12.
