A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Chicago for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Beaches

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Chicago, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and bustling coastal city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and theater.

Virginia Beach and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach is known for its resorts. Chicago is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is popular 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). Virginia Beach is popular for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

Chicago is terrific for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chicago are world-renowned. 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).

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is terrific for its live music scene. However, Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

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.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach is very good for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Both Virginia Beach and Chicago have good beaches worth visiting.

Virginia Beach has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. 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 Virginia Beach or Chicago?

Chicago is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Virginia Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach and Chicago are both good to visit as a couple.

Virginia Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Chicago is a good coastal city for couples to visit. 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 Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

Chicago is a great destination for students. 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.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

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

Chicago is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is great for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination 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.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

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

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach or Chicago?

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

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chicago is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

Virginia Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Virginia Beach has to offer. 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. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Virginia Beach. In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Chicago. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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 Virginia Beach and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Virginia Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Virginia Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach.

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

Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Chicago?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Virginia Beach is around the same temperature as Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Virginia Beach in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Virginia Beach this time of the year. In the summer, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Virginia Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in July than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In October, Virginia Beach is generally a little warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 62°F (16°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Virginia Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chicago. It's quite cold in Virginia Beach in the winter. Virginia Beach is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Chicago. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Virginia Beach in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Chicago. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Virginia Beach