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

Should you visit Chicago or Hood River?

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 Hood River can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Hood River

Hood River is a quaint, scenic, and charming town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Chicago and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Hood River?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago. Although Chicago and Hood River are both popular with visitors, Chicago has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Hood River is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Chicago is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Hood River is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Chicago different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hood River and Chicago. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is very good for winter skiing. However, Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Head to Hood River for some great skiing and other winter activities. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chicago or Hood River?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chicago are world-renowned. 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).

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Hood River 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.

Hood River is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Hood River is an experience not to be missed. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hood River is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Chicago. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Hood River is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for the beache. However, Hood River 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Hood River?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Chicago draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Christmas?

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

Hood River does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Hood River 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.

Hood River does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hood River is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Chicago or Hood River Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

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 Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hood River is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River Better for Students?

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

Hood River is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River is lacking in good options 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Chicago or Hood River a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Hood River?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Hood River. 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 Hood River. 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 Hood River 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 Hood River?

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Hood River, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Hood River?

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hood River, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hood River has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Hood River?

Chicago, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hood River is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Hood River?

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Hood River, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Hood River much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hood River would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hood River 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 Hood River.

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Hood River?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 450 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Hood River, 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Hood River. 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 Hood River because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chicago is generally a little warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 77°F (25°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. 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 Hood River. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Hood River in the Autumn?

Both Hood River and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

Chicago is around the same temperature as Hood River in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Hood River. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Hood River in the Winter?

Both Hood River and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hood River for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hood River. It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. In the winter, Chicago is much colder than Hood River. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chicago in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Hood River averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

Hood River gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Hood River in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Hood River. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hood River in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Hood River. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 52°F (11°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hood River 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 Hood River during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 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 Hood River. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hood River and Chicago