A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chattanooga or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, 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.

Chattanooga and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Chattanooga. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its hiking. Chicago is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known 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). Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular 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).

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not a live music destination.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Chattanooga and Chicago make for a nice place to visit.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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 Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for students. However, Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Is Chattanooga 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, Chattanooga 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Is Chattanooga or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chattanooga and Chicago both are great when exploring on foot.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Chicago?

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

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

In Chattanooga, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Chicago?

In Chattanooga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chattanooga has to offer.

Chicago is a edgey big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chattanooga or Chicago?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 diverse city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Chicago. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chattanooga. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga or Chicago in the Summer?

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

Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) 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 Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 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 Chattanooga. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Chicago. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Chattanooga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and 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, Chattanooga is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Chicago. Many visitors come to Chattanooga 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. Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Chicago. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Chicago. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) 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 Chattanooga this time of the year. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chattanooga usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chicago. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Chattanooga