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

Should you visit Chicago or Hershey?

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 Hershey 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Chicago and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Chicago and is known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. 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 Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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).

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Theater?

Chicago is very popular for theatre. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is very popular for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Chicago is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Music?

Chicago is very popular for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Hershey is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Hershey is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for its beaches. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Hershey?

Chicago is very popular for shopping. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hershey. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Christmas?

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

Hershey does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Hershey does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Families?

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Hershey.

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.

Hershey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Couples?

Hershey is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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 Hershey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

Is Chicago or Hershey Better for Students?

Chicago is very popular for students. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is very popular for its public transit. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Chicago has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

Is Chicago or Hershey a more walkable city?

Chicago is a great destination for its walkability. However, Hershey is a town with minimal 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.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable city. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chicago and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than in Hershey. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Hershey, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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 Hershey?

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Hershey, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hershey has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Hershey?

Chicago is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hershey is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hershey. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Hershey. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Hershey?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Hershey, 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 Hershey?

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 Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Hershey. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey during summer. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. In July, Chicago usually receives more rain than Hershey. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chicago or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Chicago during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets less rain in October than Hershey. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Hershey. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. Chicago is much colder than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Hershey during winter. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chicago usually receives less rain than Hershey. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chicago or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Hershey. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chicago is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In the spring, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Hershey. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chicago usually gets more rain in April than Hershey. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hershey and Chicago