A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chicago vs. Beaver Creek for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chicago or Beaver Creek?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Chicago and Beaver Creek can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches. See Chicago travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Chicago and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chicago than Beaver Creek, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chicago is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Chicago and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Chicago is well 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).

How is Chicago different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Beaver Creek is renowned for winter skiing. However, Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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).

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Beaver Creek is not known for its theatre productions.

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.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Is the Food Better in Chicago or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for live music. However, Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

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

Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Beaver Creek is very good for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

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.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Beaver Creek is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Chicago is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chicago. 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.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chicago is a gorgeous place to visit. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

You'll find terrific kid-friendly activities in either Chicago or Beaver Creek.

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.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Beaver Creek frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

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 Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

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.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with 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.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Is Chicago or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Beaver Creek is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Beaver Creek on foot is easy. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Both Chicago and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Chicago. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Beaver Creek. 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 Beaver Creek. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Beaver Creek 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 Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Chicago is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Beaver Creek?

Chicago is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaver Creek. In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chicago and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Chicago much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chicago would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chicago 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Chicago.

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