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

Should you visit Ensenada or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Ensenada or Chicago? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a outdoorsy, historic, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ensenada travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Chicago travel costs.

Ensenada and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ensenada or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Ensenada, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ensenada is popular for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Chicago 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).

How is Ensenada different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. 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).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ensenada. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Ensenada is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Ensenada is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Chicago is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Ensenada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Ensenada has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Music?

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

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Ensenada is not a live music destination.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for the beach. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for the beach.

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Chicago?

Chicago is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Ensenada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Is Ensenada or Chicago More Beautiful?

Chicago is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ensenada 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.

Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ensenada and Chicago make for a good place to visit.

Ensenada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

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.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada and Chicago are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

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.

Is Ensenada or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is very popular for students. However, Ensenada is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Chicago. 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.

Ensenada is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is very popular for its public transit. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Is Ensenada or Chicago a more walkable city?

Ensenada and Chicago both are great when exploring on foot.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Chicago?

In either Ensenada or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Ensenada because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than Ensenada. 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 Ensenada. 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 Ensenada 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 Ensenada or Chicago?

In Ensenada, 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.

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.

A weekend in Ensenada or Chicago?

In Ensenada, 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 Ensenada has to offer.

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.

Five days in Ensenada or Chicago?

Ensenada 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.

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.

A week in Ensenada or Chicago?

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

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ensenada. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada 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.