A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chicago vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chicago or Vancouver?

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

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Chicago travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a scenic, diverse, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vancouver travel costs.

Chicago and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Vancouver. Chicago is bigger than Vancouver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, and christmas markets, while Vancouver is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chicago is well known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere.

How is Chicago different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chicago or Vancouver.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chicago on the map. 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).

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Theater?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Chicago is a world class party destination. 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.

Vancouver has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Music?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Chicago is known as a music capital around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Vancouver is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a good destination for its beaches. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Vancouver?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Vancouver 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 Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Is Chicago or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Vancouver is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

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

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Families?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly city. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Chicago or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is renowned for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Vancouver has plenty to offer. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Vancouver is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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 Vancouver Better for Students?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Chicago and Vancouver.

Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit in Vancouver is top-notch. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Is Chicago or Vancouver a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Vancouver on foot is easy. The downtown area is very compact and fun 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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Vancouver?

In either Chicago or Vancouver, 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 Vancouver. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Vancouver. 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 Vancouver. 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 Vancouver than Chicago 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 Vancouver.

One day in Chicago or Vancouver?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Vancouver, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Vancouver?

People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Vancouver is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vancouver has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Vancouver?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vancouver. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Vancouver?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Vancouver. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Chicago is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Vancouver, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chicago. In the summer, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Vancouver. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Vancouver in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Vancouver. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chicago is generally a little warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Vancouver in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Vancouver in the winter. The weather in Chicago can be very cold. Chicago is much colder than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Vancouver. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chicago is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. It's quite rainy in Chicago. In April, Chicago usually receives around the same amount of rain as Vancouver. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Chicago