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

Should you visit New Bern or Chicago?

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

Should I visit New Bern 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.

New Bern

New Bern is a charming, laid back, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

New Bern and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Bern or Chicago?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than New Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while New Bern is more popular for its small town charm. Chicago is more touristy than New Bern and is 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). New Bern is well known for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is New Bern different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Bern or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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).

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern 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.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for live music. However, New Bern is not a live music destination.

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

New Bern is not a live music destination.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for its beaches. However, New Bern is not a beach destination.

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

New Bern is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or Chicago?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Chicago is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is well known for its Christmas activities. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

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

New Bern does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both New Bern and Chicago make for a notable place to visit.

New Bern is a nice destination for couples. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Chicago makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 New Bern or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a popular place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.

Is New Bern or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for students. However, New Bern is not popular with students.

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.

New Bern is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is New Bern or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is well known for its walkability. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or Chicago?

In either New Bern or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than New Bern because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for New Bern, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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 New Bern 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 New Bern or Chicago?

New Bern is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Chicago is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in New Bern or Chicago?

New Bern might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 New Bern has to offer.

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in New Bern or Chicago?

New Bern 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.

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chicago, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in New Bern or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Bern. Since New Bern is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chicago is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Bern or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of New Bern 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 New Bern 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 New Bern or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and New Bern are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New Bern 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 July, New Bern is generally around the same temperature as Chicago. Daily temperatures in New Bern average around 80°F (27°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. It's quite rainy in New Bern. In July, New Bern usually receives more rain than Chicago. New Bern gets 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Bern or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and New Bern during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to New Bern for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. 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.

New Bern is a little warmer than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

New Bern usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. New Bern gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Bern or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both New Bern and Chicago. Many visitors come to New Bern 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. In the winter, New Bern is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Bern in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

New Bern gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, New Bern usually receives more rain than Chicago. New Bern gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Bern or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to New Bern as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to New Bern for the small town charm 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 April, New Bern is generally a little warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in New Bern average around 62°F (16°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Chicago. New Bern usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. New Bern gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and New Bern