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

Should you visit Chicago or Honolulu?

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 Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Chicago travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Honolulu travel costs.

Chicago and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Chicago or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Chicago. While Chicago is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Chicago is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Chicago and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile.

How is Chicago different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago
Honolulu

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chicago or Honolulu.

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).

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.


Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Theater?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.


Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Music?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Honolulu is a perfect choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Honolulu is a very popular vacation destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai 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 Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Honolulu?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.


Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Christmas?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.


Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Families?

Chicago
Honolulu

You'll find amazing kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Honolulu.

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.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Is Chicago or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Honolulu has plenty to offer. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago
Honolulu

Honolulu is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Honolulu is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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 Honolulu Better for Students?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Chicago or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Chicago
Honolulu

Chicago and Honolulu both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.


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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Honolulu?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Chicago 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 Honolulu.


  • How many days in Chicago or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chicago 3-5 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Chicago or Honolulu?

Chicago is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Honolulu, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Honolulu?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chicago, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu 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 Honolulu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Chicago or Honolulu?

Chicago is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. In Honolulu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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, Honolulu or Chicago?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Chicago Prices
    USA Prices
    Honolulu Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chicago $323
    Honolulu $322

The average daily cost (per person) in Chicago is $323, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $322. 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 Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chicago $198
    Honolulu $183
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chicago $396
    Honolulu $366
Compare Hotels in Chicago and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Chicago or Honolulu? 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 Honolulu


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 Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chicago $37
    Honolulu $26
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 MDW to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $240
  • Curbside SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240
  • Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $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: $236
  • Private Chicagoland One-Way Transfer by Mercedes Sprinter : $229
  • Private Sedan Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $220
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $205
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $205
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $204
  • Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $204

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

Also for Honolulu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure - Private Transfer Waikiki Hotel to Airport: $65
  • Honolulu HNL Airport Round-Trip Private Transfer in SUV: $276
  • Arrival - Private Transfer Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotel : $70
  • Arrival Lei Greeting -HNL to Waikiki Private Transfer: $50
  • Arrival Private Transfer Honolulu Airport HNL to Beach Resorts by Executive Car: $157
  • Arrival Transfer Honolulu Airport HNL to Beach Resorts by SUV: $211
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu To Ko'olina: $53
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Atlanda int Airport Private Transfer to Atlanta(downtown): $65
  • Chief's Luau Admission Including Transfers: $181
  • DEPARTURE-Private Transfer waikiki to HNL airport by minivan: $70
  • Departure Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18

Is it cheaper to fly into Chicago or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu 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 $85
    Honolulu $91
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.

  • Chicago : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef: $55
  • Bucktown Pizza Crawl in Chicago: $59
  • Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour: $69
  • Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $73
  • Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour: $75
  • Downtown Family Food Tour by Bike with Sightseeing: $80
  • Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Secret Food Tour: $90
  • River North Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $115
  • Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan: $115

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Dinner Detective Honolulu Interactive Murder Mystery Show: $95
  • Brewery and Local Food Tour: $600

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chicago $47
    Honolulu $40
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:

  • Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket : $73
  • 2 Hour Magnificent Chicago Tour with Photos and Popcorn: $35
  • 2 Hour Private Chicago Soul House Tour: $65
  • 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour: $78
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • 3 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $135
  • 360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket: $44
  • Amazing Lakefront Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • Architectural and Historical Private Tour in Downtown Chicago: $199
  • Art Institute of Chicago Private Expert Guided Tour: $215
  • Art Institute of Chicago Skip-the-Line Guided Museum Tour : $133
  • Art Institute of Chicago Ticket & In-App Audio Tour: $62

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Honolulu.

  • Heart of Waikiki Walking Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Historic Downtown Honolulu Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial Chief's Narrated Multimedia Tour: $7.99
  • USS Arizona Commander's Narrated Multimedia Tour - 23 Stops: $11
  • Oahu: Honolulu 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Arrival Trasfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Cruise Terminal: $17
  • Honolulu's Backyard Rainforest Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $20
  • Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Ticket with Audio Tour and Shuttle: $26
  • Island of the Gods Daytime Walking Tour: $28
  • Downtown Ghostly Night Marchers Walking Tour: $28
  • Ghosts of Old Honolulu Walking Tour: $28
  • Waikiki Walking Tour (1 hour): $30

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
    Honolulu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

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

  • Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row: $25
  • Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Logan Square: $25
  • Oktoberfest Malt Row Walking Brewery Tour: $25
  • Oktoberfest Walking Brewery Tour in Logan Square: $25
  • Walking tour to Chicago dive bars: $41
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100
  • Milwaukee Harley-Davidson Museum & Brewery Day Tour: $106

Sample the Local Flavors in Honolulu

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Honolulu:

  • Waikiki Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Chicago and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chicago or Honolulu?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Chicago during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Honolulu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chicago is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chicago. In the summer, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chicago 77°F (25°C) 
    Honolulu 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Chicago or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Honolulu. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Chicago is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chicago usually receives around the same amount of rain as Honolulu. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chicago 56°F (14°C) 
    Honolulu 80°F (26°C)

Should I visit Chicago or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Honolulu. Most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. Chicago is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the winter, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chicago 25°F (-4°C) 
    Honolulu 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Chicago or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the spring, Chicago is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chicago 52°F (11°C) 
    Honolulu 76°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Chicago

Chicago Honolulu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 29°F (-2°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 76°F (24°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 78°F (25°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 80°F (26°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)