A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chicago vs. Big Island of Hawaii for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Big Island of Hawaii can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey 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.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a adventure-filled, laid back, and relaxing island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chicago and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Big Island of Hawaii, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Big Island of Hawaii is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Chicago and is popular for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. Chicago is well known 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).

How is Chicago different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Chicago is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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).

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Theater?

Chicago is renowned for theatre. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is renowned for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known 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.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Music?

Chicago is renowned for live music. However, Big Island of Hawaii 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Big Island of Hawaii is a perfect choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Big Island of Hawaii is not to be missed. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's 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 Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Chicago is renowned for shopping. Also, Big Island of Hawaii is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Big Island of Hawaii does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

You'll find terrific kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii.

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.

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Island of Hawaii has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

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 Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

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 Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Students?

Chicago is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Chicago is a great destination 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not popular with students.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii 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. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Chicago is a great city for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable city. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Chicago and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Chicago 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 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Big Island of Hawaii. 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 Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

Chicago is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Chicago is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Chicago for five days. Chicago is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

The diverse big city of Chicago offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Island of Hawaii. In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 comparing the travel costs between Chicago and Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Chicago during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chicago is around the same temperature as Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. In the summer, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets less rain in July than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Big Island of Hawaii. 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. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chicago is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Big Island of Hawaii. Many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Chicago is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chicago is much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. It's quite rainy in Chicago. In April, Chicago usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Chicago