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

Should you visit Adelaide or Chicago?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Adelaide and Chicago can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a friendly, under-rated, and elegant city. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Adelaide and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Adelaide or Chicago?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Adelaide. Chicago is bigger than Adelaide, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is better known for its museums & sights, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Adelaide is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Chicago is more touristy than Adelaide and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Adelaide is well known for its wine scene, vibrant festivals, green spaces, and local sporting events.

How is Adelaide different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Adelaide or Chicago?

Chicago is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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).

Adelaide offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting buildings along North Terrace such as the Parliament House, the State Library of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum. At the Botanic Garden there's the Santos Museum of Economic Botany. Also make sure you check out the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is renowned for theatre. However, Adelaide is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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.

Adelaide is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Adelaide or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Adelaide. There's great wine, local restaurants, and charming cafes. You'll find local dishes as well as international flavors around town. The local produce is good and the restaurants offer fresh and delicious recipes.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is renowned for nightlife. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Adelaide has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is filled with rooftop bars, live music venues, and boutique wine bars. Whether you're looking for trendy and luxury or casual and laid back, there are many places to spend a night out.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is renowned for live music. However, Adelaide is not a live music destination.

Chicago is known as a music capital around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Adelaide is not a live music destination.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Adelaide is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Part of what makes the city's beaches so great is how accessible they are. You don't have to go far to be at some of the area's best beaches. Glenelg is a family-friendly beach near town. It's also the most popular and most accessible. Brighton is relaxed with cafes and small restaurants nearby. And for seafood, head to Henley.

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 Adelaide or Chicago Better for Hiking?

Adelaide is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Adelaide. Outside of town there are national parks and reserves with hiking trails. You don't have to go far to explore the coastline or bushland in the area.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Adelaide or Chicago?

Chicago is renowned for shopping. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chicago. 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.

Adelaide is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Rundle Mall is the most well known shopping area in town. You'll find boutique shops as well as large department stores. Whether you're looking for international fashion brands or something more local, there are many places to explore.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Adelaide does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Chicago is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Adelaide does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Adelaide does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Adelaide does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Adelaide. There are kids museums, water parks, playgrounds, and beaches that are fun to explore with children. The city has a family-friendly vibe with kid-friendly restaurants and a welcoming personality.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Couples?

Both Adelaide and Chicago are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Adelaide is a nice destination for couples. A great date activity is a night at the opera. There are also boat rides, hot air balloon rides, and nice restaurants that make for a fun evening out.

Chicago makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Adelaide or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Adelaide and Chicago are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Adelaide is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but those who venture here will enjoy a great wine scene, beautiful beaches, and lively festivals.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Is Adelaide or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Chicago is a very popular city for students. 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.

Adelaide is popular with students. It's a friendly and affordable city that has a nice student culture. It's very livable and accessible to other interesting places.

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

Chicago is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Adelaide is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Adelaide has some very good public transit options. There are bus, trains, and trams throughout the city center.

Is Adelaide or Chicago a more walkable city?

Adelaide and Chicago are superb when it comes to walkability.

Adelaide is very walkable. The city is compact and laid out in a grid pattern, so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Adelaide Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Adelaide?

How long in Adelaide or Chicago?

In either Adelaide or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Adelaide because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Adelaide, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Adelaide. 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 Adelaide. 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 Adelaide 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 Adelaide or Chicago?

In Adelaide, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Adelaide or Chicago?

In Adelaide, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Adelaide has to offer.

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Adelaide or Chicago?

Adelaide is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chicago, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Adelaide or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Adelaide. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Adelaide. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chicago is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, 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 Adelaide and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Adelaide much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Adelaide is in Pacific and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Adelaide would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Adelaide 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 Adelaide.

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

Which is Bigger, Adelaide or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Adelaide. When comparing the sizes of Adelaide 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 Adelaide or Chicago?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Adelaide is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chicago has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Adelaide or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Adelaide during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Adelaide in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In January, Adelaide is generally cooler than Chicagoin July. Daily temperatures in Adelaide average around 22°C (72°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Adelaide. In the summer, Adelaide often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicagoin July. Adelaide gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Adelaide usually gets less rain in January than Chicagoin July. Adelaide gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Adelaide or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Adelaide and Chicago. Most visitors come to Adelaide for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Adelaide is a little warmer than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in Adelaide averages around 18°C (64°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C)in October.

In Adelaide, it's very sunny this time of the year. Adelaide usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Adelaide gets 215 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Adelaide usually receives less rain than Chicagoin October. Adelaide gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Adelaide or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Adelaide as well as Chicago. The winter months attract visitors to Adelaide because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. In the winter, Adelaide is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in Adelaide in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C)in January.

In the winter, Adelaide often gets more sunshine than Chicagoin January. Adelaide gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Adelaide usually gets more rain in July than Chicagoin January. Adelaide gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Adelaide or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Adelaide are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Adelaide this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In October, Adelaide is generally a little warmer than Chicagoin April. Daily temperatures in Adelaide average around 16°C (61°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Adelaide. Adelaide usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Adelaide gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In October, Adelaide usually receives less rain than Chicagoin April. Adelaide gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Adelaide