Traveling to Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. With this budget travel guide, you’ll be able to save time and money while enjoying the Windy City. As with most tourist destinations, Chicago has loads of spots and features that won’t require you to pay top dollar. You just need a bit of research and a great sense of adventure and you’re all set.
When to Visit
Winter season in Chicago can be intense. So if you’re here during winter, make sure to pack accordingly. The latter part of the year, just weeks before Christmas, is popular for both local and tourist shoppers. Research about the city’s numerous festivals and celebrations so you can book accommodations beforehand at a cheaper price. Early booking saves you a lot. This doesn’t just apply to hotel rooms or alternate lodging, but to transportation, too. Look for options that offer discounts like Universal Taxi Dispatch.
Where and What to Eat
Chicago has great restaurants all over the city, but some of them don’t exactly offer a budget range. Instead, look for local restaurants that offer the unique Chicago food experience. This way, even if you splurge a little, you get the real thing. Also, don’t miss the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Keep in mind that a slice or two can be very filling so just order a size smaller than what you’re used to.
Where to Stay
If you want to be in the middle of the action, book a room near Michigan Avenue. This is where shopping malls, dining places, and world-class museums are located. There are free shuttle buses that transport tourists between attractions. Keep in mind that hotels near the avenue can be expensive, BUT if you don’t mind staying a block or two from it, you can book a room for a cheaper price. Check travel websites with discounted services. Often, good deals turn up. If you really want to save a lot, accommodations near the O’Hare Airport are typically easy on the pocket. Just remember that the commute to the center of the city can take more than an hour.
How to Get Around
The Windy City offers one of the best mass-transit systems in the US, not to mention the abundance of other forms of transportation like buses and cabs. You can ride the L within the city. Bus lines serve both the O’Hare and Midway airports. Shuttle buses in the Michigan Avenue area are free. You can also hire a cab from Universal Taxi Dispatch if you’re traveling in the suburbs. It’s relatively cheaper than renting a car.
What to Do
Chicago CityPass provides entry to six attractions for both children (3 to 11 years old) and adults. For its first use, the pass is valid for nine days. Before traveling to the city, check out the local listings for events within the days you’re visiting. Chicago is known for its theater community so you can check out the shows in town.
But more than any other attractions, Chicago is famous for its parks. The Millennium Park is one of America’s best city playgrounds. Festivals and concerts are often held in this park – and every other park in the city, for that matter.
To enjoy Chicago on a budget, all you need is to plan ahead and explore once you’re in the city.