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

Should you visit Chicago or Kamloops?

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 Kamloops can help you decide which place is right for you.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Chicago is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Chicago travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a laid-back, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Kamloops travel costs.

Chicago and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chicago or Kamloops?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Kamloops, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is known for its skiing and hiking. Chicago is more touristy than Kamloops 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). Kamloops is popular for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Chicago different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Chicago is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Chicago is not a skiing destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its 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).

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its theatre productions. However, Kamloops is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Chicago that are not to be missed. 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.

Kamloops is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chicago have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Music?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a live music destination.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Kamloops is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Chicago is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chicago or Kamloops?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Chicago or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Chicago is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Both Chicago and Kamloops are good 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.

Kamloops is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Chicago is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

Is Chicago or Kamloops Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kamloops is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular city 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.

Kamloops is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Public transit is generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Is Chicago or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options 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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Chicago?

How long in Chicago or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chicago or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chicago than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

Chicago is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kamloops, you'll find skiing and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Chicago or Kamloops?

Chicago is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kamloops, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Kamloops has to offer.

Five days in Chicago or Kamloops?

Chicago is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chicago, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamloops 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 Kamloops?

Chicago is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamloops. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Kamloops. 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chicago or Kamloops?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kamloops. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Kamloops, 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 Kamloops?

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 Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Kamloops. Many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Kamloops in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 77°F (25°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Chicago is a little warmer than Kamloops in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Chicago usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chicago or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Chicago during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kamloops can be very cold. Chicago can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Chicago is much colder than Kamloops. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chicago in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and Kamloops averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Chicago usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chicago or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Kamloops. The spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Chicago is generally around the same temperature as Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 52°F (11°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Chicago