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

Should you visit Chicago or Cleveland?

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 Cleveland 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 theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a authentic, under-rated, and diverse city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Cleveland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Cleveland. Chicago is bigger than Cleveland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is more touristy than Cleveland 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). Cleveland is well known for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Chicago different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cleveland 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).

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for live music. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

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.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

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.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Cleveland?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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 Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Chicago or Cleveland Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 generally limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Chicago or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

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

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chicago and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Cleveland, you'll find nightlife and live music. This city 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 Cleveland?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Cleveland, you'll find live music 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 Cleveland has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Cleveland?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cleveland. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cleveland. 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 Cleveland, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland 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 Cleveland.

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Cleveland?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cleveland. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Cleveland, 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 Cleveland?

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 Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Cleveland. 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 Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chicago is around the same temperature as Cleveland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Cleveland averages at about 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In the summer, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cleveland. Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Cleveland. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Cleveland in the Autumn?

Both Cleveland and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Cleveland in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In October, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chicago usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cleveland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cleveland can be very cold during winter. Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Chicago is much colder than Cleveland in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Cleveland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Cleveland. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Chicago is around the same temperature as Cleveland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Cleveland averages at about 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chicago usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Chicago