A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chicago vs. Halifax for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chicago or Halifax?

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 Halifax 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 museums, theater, and nightlife. See Chicago travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Halifax travel costs.

Chicago and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Halifax?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Halifax. Chicago is bigger than Halifax, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is more touristy than Halifax and is popular 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). Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

How is Chicago different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chicago or Halifax?

Chicago is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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).

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Theater?

Chicago is renowned for theatre. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is renowned for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Music?

Chicago is renowned for live music. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Halifax?

Chicago is renowned for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Chicago or Halifax More Beautiful?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Families?

Chicago is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Couples?

Both Chicago and Halifax are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Chicago is a good 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.

Halifax is a nice destination for couples. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago and Halifax are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chicago is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

It's common for backpackers to visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Chicago or Halifax Better for Students?

Chicago is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

Is Chicago or Halifax a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chicago and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than in Halifax. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Halifax. 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 Halifax. 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 Halifax 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 Halifax?

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Halifax, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Halifax?

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

In Halifax, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Halifax has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Halifax?

Chicago 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 Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Halifax is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Chicago or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Halifax. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Halifax. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Halifax?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Halifax. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Halifax, 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 Chicago or Halifax?

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 Chicago or Halifax in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Halifax. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chicago is a little warmer than Halifax. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chicago in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Halifax averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Halifax. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In the summer, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Halifax. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Halifax in the Autumn?

Both Halifax and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Chicago is generally a little warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 56°F (14°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Halifax. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Chicago is around the same temperature as Halifax in the winter. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

In the winter, Chicago often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Halifax in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Halifax. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. In the spring, Chicago is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chicago in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Halifax averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chicago usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chicago usually receives around the same amount of rain as Halifax. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Halifax and Chicago