A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a vibrant, built-up, and well-known city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Acapulco de Juarez. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Acapulco de Juarez attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Acapulco de Juarez is famous for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago and Acapulco de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chicago on the map. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Chicago is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago has a better nightlife scene.

The nightlife in Acapulco de Juarez is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a live music destination.

In Chicago you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Acapulco de Juarez is a perfect choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Chicago is a world class destination for shoppers. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Acapulco de Juarez does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Acapulco de Juarez does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Acapulco de Juarez does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly destination. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Acapulco de Juarez has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a popular place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for students. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

While Acapulco de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

Acapulco de Juarez is somewhat walkable. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

In either Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Chicago has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chicago than Acapulco de Juarez. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Acapulco de Juarez. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Acapulco de Juarez if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chicago.

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

In Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

In Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chicago is a popular place to visit. Chicago is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acapulco de Juarez has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chicago has to offer.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acapulco de Juarez. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Acapulco de Juarez. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Acapulco de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and Chicago, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In July, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Acapulco de Juarez during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Chicago. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. In January, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 26°C (79°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Acapulco de Juarez