A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chicago vs. Grand Teton National Park for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

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 Grand Teton National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Chicago and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. 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). Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Chicago different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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).

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Theater?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.


Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a popular place for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-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.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Chicago or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Chicago
Grand Teton National Park

Chicago is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Chicago and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Chicago. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park 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.


  • How many days in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chicago 3-5 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This park 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Chicago?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chicago is $288, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Chicago and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chicago $198
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chicago $396
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Chicago and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chicago or Grand Teton National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Chicago


Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Chicago Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chicago $37
    Grand Teton National Park $52
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chicago

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chicago:


  • Parking
    $19
  • Taxi Ride
    $10
  • Taxi from Airport
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chicago

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:

  • Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • RoundTrip transfer in private car from-to Chicago Airport (ORD)- Chicago City: $276
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to O'Hare airport: $240
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $240
  • Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240
  • Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury Car: $233
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $233
  • Private Sedan Transfer from Chicago Downtown to O'Hare airport: $220
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $202

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Chicago or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Chicago change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Chicago $49
    Grand Teton National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Chicago

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:


  • Dinner for 1
    $24
  • Dinner for 3
    $118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chicago

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chicago.

  • Traveling Spoon Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Private Online Cooking Class : $40
  • Chicago : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef: $55
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $58
  • Fulton Market Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $63
  • Chicago's Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $63
  • Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour: $75
  • Chicago Pizza Tour: $75
  • Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl: $79
  • Chicago Bucktown-Wicker Park Pizza Crawl: $79
  • Downtown Family Food Tour by Bike with Sightseeing: $80
  • Nitti's Supper Club Dinner and Show: $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chicago $47
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Chicago

Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Sears Tower (family of 4)
    $102
  • Aquarium for 4
    $118
  • Water Taxi (family of 4)
    $22
  • IMAX Movie for Two
    $35
  • Shakespeare Play (2)
    $116
  • Art Institute (2)
    $36
  • U-Boat Tour (2)
    $8.00

Tours and Activities in Chicago

Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chicagoland Sightseeing in Style Luxury Private Sedan: $190
  • Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket : $73
  • 2 Hour Pier Fireworks and Evening Segway Tour in Chicago: $78
  • 2-Hour Chicago Fireworks Segway Tour: $80
  • 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour: $68
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • 2-Hour Haunted Segway Tour of Chicago: $78
  • 3 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $135
  • Adults Party Art Experience: $66
  • African American Heritage Tour of Chicago : $125
  • Amazing Lakefront Segway Tour of Chicago: $79
  • App Chicago self-guided tours with multilingual audioguides: $9.63

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chicago $25
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chicago:

  • Malt Row Walking Brewery Tour: $30
  • Walking tour to Chicago dive bars: $41
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100


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

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