A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cocoa Beach and Chicago. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Chicago travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago. Although Cocoa Beach and Chicago are popular destinations, Chicago has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chicago is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Cocoa Beach different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

Chicago is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. 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).

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is very popular for its shows and theatre. However, Cocoa Beach is not a theatre destination.

Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cocoa Beach makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Chicago is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is very popular for its music scene. However, Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

Cocoa Beach has a few great resort options. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

Chicago is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. 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.

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago More Beautiful?

Chicago is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chicago offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The water makes this city a truly unique place to explore, and the world class architecture is not to be missed.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and Chicago are first-rate family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

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 Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chicago is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit 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.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

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

Chicago has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

You'll find some public transit in Cocoa Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Is Cocoa Beach or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

In either Cocoa Beach or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Chicago has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chicago than Cocoa Beach. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chicago is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

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

Chicago is a multicultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cocoa Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

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

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Chicago. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Chicago, 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 Cocoa Beach or Chicago?

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 Cocoa Beach or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Cocoa Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Chicago. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Chicago. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Chicago. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Chicago can be very cold. In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Chicago. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Cocoa Beach