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

Should you visit Dallas or Chicago?

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 Dallas and Chicago can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dallas

Dallas is a chic, active, and upscale city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Dallas and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dallas or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Dallas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more touristy than Dallas 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). Dallas is popular for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture.

How is Dallas different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city 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).

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dallas can be an interesting and educational experience. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Dallas is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Chicago is world-class. 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.

Dallas is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dallas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party 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.

Dallas has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is renowned for its live music scene. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is not a live music destination.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is very good for the beache. However, Dallas is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Chicago to enjoy the beach. 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.

Dallas is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dallas or Chicago?

Chicago is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Dallas does not offer Christmas markets.

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

Dallas does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dallas. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dallas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

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 Dallas or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is very good for backpackers. However, Dallas is not a good city 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.

Dallas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there are a couple of hostels around town, this isn't a popular destination for the backpacker crowd.

Is Dallas or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is renowned for students. However, Dallas is not a good city for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Dallas is a decent spot for students. There are a couple of universities and colleges in the area that keep things interesting for students.

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

Chicago is renowned for its public transit. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Dallas has some public transit options. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

Is Dallas or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Dallas is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Dallas is generally not a very walkable city. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Dallas?

How long in Dallas or Chicago?

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

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

In Dallas, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dallas or Chicago?

In Dallas, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dallas has to offer.

Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dallas or Chicago?

Dallas is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dallas or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dallas. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dallas. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dallas or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dallas. When comparing the sizes of Dallas 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 Dallas or Chicago?

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 Dallas or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dallas and Chicago. The summer months attract visitors to Dallas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the summer, Dallas is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dallas in July average around 88°F (31°C), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In Dallas, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dallas usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during summer. Dallas gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Dallas usually receives less rain than Chicago. Dallas gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dallas or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dallas as well as Chicago. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dallas this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dallas is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Dallas average around 69°F (21°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dallas this time of the year. In the autumn, Dallas often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Dallas gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Dallas usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dallas or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Dallas are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dallas for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Dallas is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Dallas averages around 46°F (8°C) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Dallas usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Dallas gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dallas usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chicago. Dallas gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dallas or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Dallas during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dallas in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Dallas is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dallas in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Dallas. In the spring, Dallas often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Dallas gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dallas usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Dallas