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

Should you visit Christchurch or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Christchurch or Chicago? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

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 shopping, museums, and theater.

Christchurch and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Christchurch, 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, and big city activities, while Christchurch is known for its beaches and hiking. Chicago is more touristy than Christchurch and is known 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). Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Christchurch different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Christchurch or Chicago?

Chicago is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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).

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Chicago is a must-see 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.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is terrific for its live music scene. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is not a live music destination.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

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 Christchurch or Chicago Better for Hiking?

Christchurch 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 Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Chicago?

Chicago is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Christchurch 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.

Christchurch does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Christchurch does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Christchurch or Chicago.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Christchurch is a very family-friendly destination. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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.

Is Christchurch or Chicago Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

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 Christchurch or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Christchurch is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

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 Christchurch or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is terrific for students. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Christchurch is very popular with students. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

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

Chicago is terrific for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Chicago can take you anywhere. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Christchurch or Chicago a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Chicago both are great when exploring on foot.

Christchurch is a very walkable city. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Chicago?

In either Christchurch or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Christchurch because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Christchurch. 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 Christchurch. 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 Christchurch 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 Christchurch or Chicago?

In Christchurch, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Christchurch or Chicago?

In Christchurch, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Christchurch has to offer.

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.

Five days in Christchurch or Chicago?

Christchurch 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.

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.

A week in Christchurch or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Christchurch. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, 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 Christchurch and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Christchurch much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Christchurch is in Pacific and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Christchurch would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Christchurch 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 Christchurch.

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

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Chicago?

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

When is the best time to visit Christchurch or Chicago?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chicago has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Christchurch or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Christchurch are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Christchurch is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Christchurch in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C)in July.

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Christchurch gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In January, Christchurch usually receives less rain than Chicagoin July. Christchurch gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Christchurch or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Christchurch during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Christchurch is generally around the same temperature as Chicagoin October. Daily temperatures in Christchurch average around 12°C (54°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Christchurch often gets less sunshine than Chicagoin October. Christchurch gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Christchurch usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Chicagoin October. Christchurch gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Christchurch or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Christchurch and Chicago. Many visitors come to Christchurch in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. Christchurch is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Christchurch averages around 6°C (43°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C)in January.

Christchurch usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Christchurch gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Christchurch usually receives more rain than Chicagoin January. Christchurch gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Christchurch or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Christchurch as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Christchurch is around the same temperature as Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Christchurch in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. In the spring, Christchurch often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicagoin April. Christchurch gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Christchurch usually gets less rain in October than Chicagoin April. Christchurch gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Christchurch