How Much Do You Need Per Day in Chicago? A Casual Guide
Chicago, the Windy City, is a vibrant metropolis with something to offer everyone. From its stunning architecture to its world-class museums, there's always something to see and do. But before you start planning your trip, it's important to have a budget in mind.
How Much Does a Trip to Chicago Cost?
The cost of a trip to Chicago can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. However, you can expect to spend an average of $200-$300 per day. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
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| How Much Do You Need Per Day In Chicago |
Accommodation
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Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when visiting Chicago. There are a variety of options available, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The average cost of a hotel room in Chicago is $150-$200 per night. However, you can find cheaper options by staying outside of the city center or booking your accommodation in advance.
Food
Chicago is home to a diverse culinary scene, with something to suit every taste. You can find everything from casual street food to fine dining restaurants. The average cost of a meal in Chicago is $20-$30. However, you can save money by eating at cheaper restaurants or cooking your own meals.
Transportation
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Chicago has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways. The average cost of a CTA bus or train ride is $2.50. You can also purchase a Ventra card, which gives you unlimited rides for a day, week, or month.
Activities
There are many things to see and do in Chicago, from visiting museums to exploring the city's parks. The average cost of a museum ticket is $15-$20. However, there are many free activities available, such as walking around the city and enjoying the architecture.
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Tips for Saving Money in Chicago
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Here are a few tips for saving money on your trip to Chicago:
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance.
- Eat at cheaper restaurants or cook your own meals.
- Take advantage of free activities.
- Use public transportation instead of taxis or ride-sharing apps.
- Purchase a Ventra card for unlimited rides on the CTA.
Related FAQs
How to find cheap flights to Chicago?
There are a number of ways to find cheap flights to Chicago. You can use a flight comparison website, such as Google Flights or Skyscanner, to compare prices from different airlines. You can also sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel websites to be notified of sales and special offers.
How to find affordable accommodation in Chicago?
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There are a number of ways to find affordable accommodation in Chicago. You can use a website such as Airbnb or Hostelworld to find budget-friendly options. You can also stay outside of the city center or book your accommodation in advance to get the best deals.
How to save money on food in Chicago?
There are a number of ways to save money on food in Chicago. You can eat at cheaper restaurants, such as fast-casual chains or food trucks. You can also cook your own meals by staying in an apartment or hostel with a kitchen. You can also take advantage of free food events, such as farmers markets and food festivals.
How to get around Chicago on a budget?
The best way to get around Chicago on a budget is to use public transportation. The CTA has a well-developed network of buses, trains, and subways. You can also purchase a Ventra card, which gives you unlimited rides for a day, week, or month.
How to find free things to do in Chicago?
There are many free things to do in Chicago, such as walking around the city and enjoying the architecture. You can also visit free museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. You can also attend free events, such as concerts and festivals.
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