A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan 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. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago are popular destinations, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure attracts visitors for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

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).

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Music?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

In Chicago you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is a city with good options for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular recreation area for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Students?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular city 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chicago

Chicago is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

In either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Chicago 3-5

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This recreation area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer.

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Chicago. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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, Chicago or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, while the average daily cost in Chicago is $288. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Chicago $198
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Chicago $396
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Chicago


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Chicago $37

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:

  • Airport transfer between Chicago O'Hare and Milwaukee: $38
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Business Car: $152
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $233
  • Chicago Airport (MDW) to Chicago - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport in Luxury SUV: $150
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Business Car: $152
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $202
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Chicago -Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Chicago City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Chicago hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Chicago - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Prices for flights to both Chicago and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Chicago $49

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.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Chicago $47

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:

  • Discovering Chicago with Walking In App Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Haunted Sites Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Vice, Crime and Gangsters Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Chicago’s Ragtime & Jazz Eras: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Vice, Crime and Gangsters in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Must-Sees & Hidden Gems In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • App Chicago self-guided tours with multilingual audioguides: $9.63
  • Millennium Park Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Riverwalk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Chicago White Sox Baseball Game Ticket: $12

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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Chicago $25

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

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


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 17120 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chicago, 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.