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

Should you visit Chicago or Minneapolis?

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

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Chicago is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Chicago travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Chicago and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Minneapolis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Minneapolis, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more touristy than Minneapolis and 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). Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is Chicago different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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).

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Minneapolis is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. 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.

Minneapolis is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Minneapolis is an experience not to be missed. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Chicago just to party. 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.

Minneapolis is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

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.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Minneapolis?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Minneapolis and Chicago.

Chicago is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Minneapolis. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Both Chicago and Minneapolis are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Chicago is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Minneapolis is a nice destination for couples. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Chicago is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Is Chicago or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Chicago or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chicago due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

Chicago is a edgey city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Minneapolis, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Minneapolis?

Chicago is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Minneapolis, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Minneapolis has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Minneapolis?

Chicago is a multicultural city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. 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 Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Chicago. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Minneapolis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Minneapolis. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Minneapolis?

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

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 Minneapolis in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Minneapolis. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 77°F (25°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In the summer, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Minneapolis. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

Both Minneapolis and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Minneapolis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chicago is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chicago usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Minneapolis in the Winter?

Both Minneapolis and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Chicago is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chicago in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

In the winter, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

Chicago usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Minneapolis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Minneapolis. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city.

In April, Chicago is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 52°F (11°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Minneapolis this time of the year. In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 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 Minneapolis. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Chicago