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

Should you visit Ocean City or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Ocean City 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a active, energetic, and fun-filled city. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant 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 live music, food, and beaches.

Ocean City and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Ocean City 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, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ocean City attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Ocean City is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. 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 Ocean City different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

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 Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shows and theatre. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

People head to Chicago just to party. 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.

Ocean City has a large number of nightlife venues. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a live music destination.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Ocean City is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

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 Ocean City or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city 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.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Christmas?

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

Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Ocean City does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ocean City or Chicago.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Ocean City or Chicago Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Ocean City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

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 Ocean City or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city 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.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.

Is Ocean City or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is a world-class destination for students. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Ocean City or Chicago a more walkable city?

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

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

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Chicago?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City or Chicago?

In Ocean City, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Chicago?

In Ocean City, you'll find food and nightlife. 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.

When visiting Chicago, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Ocean City or Chicago?

Ocean City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ocean City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ocean City. In Ocean City, you'll find food and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 400 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Chicago. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ocean City is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Chicago. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ocean City or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Chicago. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the shopping scene. Additionally, 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 the autumn, Ocean City is around the same temperature as Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ocean City in October average around 58°F (14°C), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Ocean City can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Ocean City is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 35°F (2°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Chicago. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ocean City or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Ocean City during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Ocean City is around the same temperature as Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Ocean City usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Ocean City