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

Should you visit Chicago or Park City Utah?

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 Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Chicago and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Chicago and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Park City Utah attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Park City Utah is more touristy than Chicago and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. 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).

How is Chicago different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for winter skiing. However, Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Park City Utah is among the world's best ski destinations. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

Chicago is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination 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).

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Theater?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Chicago or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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, Park City Utah makes for a great culinary experience. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.


Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Chicago
Park City Utah

It's hard to distinguish whether Chicago or Park City Utah has a better nightlife scene.

Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Park City Utah has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Music?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Park City Utah. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Chicago is not a resort destination.


Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is a good destination for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Chicago offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.


Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Christmas?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Chicago
Park City Utah

You'll find first-rate kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Park City Utah.

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.

Park City Utah is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.


Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Park City Utah has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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 Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago and Park City Utah are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chicago is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

It's common for backpackers to visit Park City Utah. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah Better for Students?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not popular with students.


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

Chicago
Park City Utah

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Park City Utah. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

Is Chicago or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Chicago
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Park City Utah on foot is easy. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Park City Utah?

In either Chicago or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Chicago has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chicago than Park City Utah. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Park City Utah. 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 Park City Utah. 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 Park City Utah 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.


  • How many days in Chicago or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chicago 3-5 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Park City Utah, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Chicago is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Park City Utah, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Park City Utah?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Chicago. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Park City Utah. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Chicago?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chicago is $288, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $320. 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 Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chicago $198
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chicago $396
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Chicago and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Chicago or Park City Utah? 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 Park City Utah


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 Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chicago $37
    Park City Utah $72
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 ORD to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • RoundTrip transfer in private car from-to Chicago Airport (ORD)- Chicago City: $276
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to O'Hare airport: $240
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $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: $233
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $233
  • Private Sedan Transfer from Chicago Downtown to O'Hare airport: $220
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $202

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $114
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Chicago or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah 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 $49
    Park City Utah $65
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.

  • Traveling Spoon Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Private Online Cooking Class : $40
  • Chicago : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef: $55
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $58
  • Fulton Market Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $63
  • Chicago's Delicious Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $63
  • Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour: $75
  • Chicago Pizza Tour: $75
  • Chicago West Loop Pizza Crawl: $79
  • Chicago Bucktown-Wicker Park Pizza Crawl: $79
  • Downtown Family Food Tour by Bike with Sightseeing: $80
  • Nitti's Supper Club Dinner and Show: $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chicago $47
    Park City Utah $68
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:

  • Chicagoland Sightseeing in Style Luxury Private Sedan: $190
  • Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket : $73
  • 2 Hour Pier Fireworks and Evening Segway Tour in Chicago: $78
  • 2-Hour Chicago Fireworks Segway Tour: $80
  • 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour: $68
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Chicago: $65
  • 2-Hour Haunted Segway Tour of Chicago: $78
  • 3 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $135
  • Adults Party Art Experience: $66
  • African American Heritage Tour of Chicago : $125
  • Amazing Lakefront Segway Tour of Chicago: $79
  • App Chicago self-guided tours with multilingual audioguides: $9.63

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

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
    Park City Utah $46

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

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

  • Malt Row Walking Brewery Tour: $30
  • Walking tour to Chicago dive bars: $41
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Chicago and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chicago or Park City Utah?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Park City Utah. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Park City Utah, 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.