A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chicago vs. Martha's Vineyard for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and food.

Chicago and Martha's Vineyard: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Chicago and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Martha's Vineyard is famous for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping.

How is Chicago different from Martha's Vineyard?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. 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).

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a theatre destination.

Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Martha's Vineyard makes for a great culinary experience. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a live music destination.

Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Martha's Vineyard is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Martha's Vineyard is a perfect choice. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Hiking?

Martha's Vineyard is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Martha's Vineyard. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Martha's Vineyard 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.

Martha's Vineyard does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Martha's Vineyard does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Martha's Vineyard does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Chicago is very family-friendly. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Martha's Vineyard has plenty to offer. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Martha's Vineyard is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not popular with students.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is generally limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

Is Chicago or Martha's Vineyard a more walkable city?

Chicago is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its walkability.

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

Martha's Vineyard is somewhat walkable. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Martha's Vineyard or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Martha's Vineyard. 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 Martha's Vineyard. 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 Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard?

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Martha's Vineyard is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Martha's Vineyard has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Martha's Vineyard. Since Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 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 Martha's Vineyard, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Martha's Vineyard much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Martha's Vineyard would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard.

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

When is the best time to visit Chicago or Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard in the Summer?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Chicago during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Chicago is around the same temperature as Martha's Vineyard in the summer. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Martha's Vineyard, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chicago. In the summer, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 293 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Martha's Vineyard in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Martha's Vineyard. Most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chicago is a little warmer than Martha's Vineyard. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chicago in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Martha's Vineyard averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard this time of the year. Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Martha's Vineyard during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Martha's Vineyard in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Martha's Vineyard. The winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year.

It's quite cold in Martha's Vineyard in the winter. The weather in Chicago can be very cold. In January, Chicago is generally much colder than Martha's Vineyard. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 25°F (-4°C), and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 170 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Martha's Vineyard in the Spring?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Chicago is a little warmer than Martha's Vineyard in the spring. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Martha's Vineyard. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Martha's Vineyard during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Martha's Vineyard. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Martha's Vineyard and Chicago