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

Should you visit Chicago or Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica 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. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a funfilled, energetic, and active town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Santa Monica, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santa Monica is known for its beaches. Santa Monica is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. 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).

How is Chicago different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. 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).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its theatre productions. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Santa Monica has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Santa Monica has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Santa Monica is a very popular vacation destination. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

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 the Shopping Better in Chicago or Santa Monica?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. 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 explore the shopping areas in Santa Monica. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Christmas?

Chicago is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Santa Monica does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Santa Monica does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Families?

You'll find world-class kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Santa Monica.

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.

Santa Monica is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Santa Monica frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

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 Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago and Santa Monica are good 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 Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have 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.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Chicago or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Chicago and Santa Monica both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Santa Monica is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Santa Monica?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Santa Monica, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This town 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 Santa Monica?

Chicago is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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

Five days in Chicago or Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Santa Monica?

Chicago is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Monica. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Santa Monica, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Santa Monica much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Monica would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica.

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Santa Monica?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chicago or Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chicago is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 77°F (25°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chicago usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chicago or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Santa Monica. 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. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

Chicago is cooler than Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Chicago usually gets more rain in October than Santa Monica. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. In the winter, Chicago is much colder than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chicago in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Chicago usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chicago or Santa Monica in the Spring?

Both Santa Monica and Chicago during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Chicago is generally cooler than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 52°F (11°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in April than Santa Monica. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Chicago