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

Should you visit Auckland or Chicago?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Chicago can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Auckland travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Chicago is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Chicago travel costs.

Auckland and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Auckland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auckland is known for its beaches and hiking. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Chicago is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Auckland different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chicago are world-renowned. 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).

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Auckland is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Chicago is world-class. 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.

Auckland is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Chicago. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

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 Auckland or Chicago Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Auckland. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Chicago?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chicago draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Auckland or Chicago More Beautiful?

Chicago is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chicago is a beautiful place to visit, too. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Auckland or Chicago Better for Couples?

Auckland is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

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 Auckland or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Auckland or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Auckland or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Chicago?

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

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

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

The city of Chicago offers shopping and museums. 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 Auckland or Chicago?

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Auckland 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 Auckland or Chicago?

Auckland 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 Auckland or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Auckland. 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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Auckland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Auckland 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 Auckland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auckland 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 Auckland.

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Auckland 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 Auckland or Chicago?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland 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 Auckland or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Auckland during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Auckland because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the summer, Auckland is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C)in July.

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Auckland. In the summer, Auckland often gets less sunshine than Chicagoin July. Auckland gets 240 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. Auckland usually gets less rain in January than Chicagoin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Chicago. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Auckland is generally a little warmer than Chicagoin October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Auckland usually receives more rain than Chicagoin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Auckland or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Chicago. Many travelers come to Auckland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Auckland is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C)in January.

In the winter, Auckland often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicagoin January. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Auckland receives a lot of rain in the winter. Auckland usually gets more rain in July than Chicagoin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Auckland in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Auckland is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C)in April.

It's quite sunny in Chicago. Auckland usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during spring. Auckland gets 192 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, Auckland usually receives less rain than Chicagoin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Auckland