A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Chicago for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami 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 Miami and Chicago can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a exciting, diverse, and bustling beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Miami travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for theater, nightlife, and live music. See Chicago travel costs.

Miami and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Chicago?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Miami. Chicago is bigger than Miami, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Miami is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Miami is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. 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).

How is Miami different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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).

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a theatre destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Miami and Chicago can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Miami and Chicago.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Chicago is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Miami or Chicago.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Chicago. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

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 Miami or Chicago?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Chicago and Miami.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Known for shopping, Chicago draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Is Miami or Chicago More Beautiful?

Chicago is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Miami or Chicago Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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 Miami or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami and Chicago are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

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 Miami or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Miami or Chicago a more walkable city?

Miami and Chicago both are very good when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Miami?

How long in Miami or Chicago?

In either Miami or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Miami because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Miami 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 Miami or Chicago?

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Chicago, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this multicultural big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Chicago?

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Chicago?

Miami is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Chicago is a fun place to experience. In Chicago, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Miami or Chicago?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the edgey big city of Chicago. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during summer. Miami gets 316 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. It's quite rainy in Miami. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Chicago. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Miami or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Miami during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Furthermore, 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.

Miami is much warmer than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Chicago. Many travelers come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Miami usually receives more rain than Chicago. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Miami or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Miami as well as Chicago. Many visitors come to Miami in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the spring, Miami often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Miami usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Miami