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

Should you visit Chicago or Bangor?

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 Chicago and Bangor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan 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 theater, nightlife, and live music.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Is there more to do in Chicago or Bangor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Chicago and Bangor are popular destinations, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its small town charm. Chicago is more touristy than Bangor 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). Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Chicago different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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).

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Bangor?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Bangor does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Bangor does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Bangor is a family-friendly city. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Couples?

Chicago is a city with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Chicago is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chicago is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

Is Chicago or Bangor Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Bangor is not popular with 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.

Bangor is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Bangor is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Is Chicago or Bangor a more walkable city?

Chicago is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chicago or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chicago than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Bangor. 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 Bangor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Bangor 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 Chicago or Bangor?

Chicago is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bangor, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Chicago or Bangor?

Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Chicago or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bangor is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Chicago or Bangor?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the edgey big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bangor. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bangor. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Bangor?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Bangor, 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 Chicago or Bangor?

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 Chicago or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Bangor. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bangor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Chicago is a little warmer than Bangor in the summer. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chicago usually receives more rain than Bangor. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chicago or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Bangor. 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. Also, most visitors come to Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Chicago is a little warmer than Bangor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chicago in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Bangor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Chicago usually gets less rain in October than Bangor. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bangor can be very cold. Chicago can be very cold during winter. In January, Chicago is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 25°F (-4°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Chicago usually receives less rain than Bangor. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chicago or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor and Chicago during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

Chicago is much warmer than Bangor in the spring. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in April than Bangor. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bangor and Chicago