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

Should you visit Guadalajara or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Chicago, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a vibrant, cultural, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Guadalajara travel costs.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey 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 theater, nightlife, and live music. See Chicago travel costs.

Guadalajara and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Guadalajara. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Guadalajara attracts visitors for its historical sights. Chicago is more touristy than Guadalajara and is popular 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). Guadalajara is famous for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals.

How is Guadalajara different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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).

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Guadalajara. It's a city that's filled with culture and history, with many impressive landmarks such as the Guadalajara Cathedral. Also make sure you visit the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, Expiatory Temple, the Government Palace, and the Regional Museum of Guadalajara.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Guadalajara makes for a great culinary experience. The cuisine uses some key ingredients such as corn tortillas, chilis, and beans. You'll find a lot of street food which includes tacos and tortas as well as restaurant dishes like birria (meat stew), pozole (hominy soup), and fish ceviche.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Guadalajara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city comes to life at night. You'll find vibrant dance clubs, live music, and traditional bars. The craft beer scene has also grown in recent years. The most active areas are around Chapultepec Avenue and Zapopan.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Music?

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

Guadalajara is not a live music destination.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Guadalajara. The city center is filled with Spanish colonial architecture. With a walking tour you will find baroque, neoclassical, renaissance, and Gothic style buildings that highlight the city's long running past and rich history.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Chicago?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Guadalajara is an extremely popular place for shoppers. One of the best shopping streets is Avenida Juarez. A must-see stop is also the large indoor market of Mercado Libertad. You'll also find shopping centers and retail outlets around town.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago More Beautiful?

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

Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination 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.

Guadalajara is not the most family-friendly destination. While it's not the most popular destination for families, those who visit will enjoy exploring the nature parks or amusement parks.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Couples?

Guadalajara and Chicago are both nice to visit as a couple.

Guadalajara is a good city for couples to visit. It's filled with nice architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene, and great urban parks, making it a nice and romantic destination for couples.

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 Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Guadalajara is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

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.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara is not popular with students.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago 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, Guadalajara is not a good destination 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 Guadalajara. There's a bus system as well as a metro system with two lines, which are primarily used by commuters.

Is Guadalajara or Chicago a more walkable city?

Guadalajara and Chicago are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Guadalajara is a very walkable destination. The city center is pedestrian-friendly. This is also where you'll find most of the sights.

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 Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Chicago?

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

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

In Guadalajara, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 diverse 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 Guadalajara or Chicago?

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

Chicago is a diverse 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 Guadalajara or Chicago?

Guadalajara is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 vibrant 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 Guadalajara or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Guadalajara. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Guadalajara. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Guadalajara and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Guadalajara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Guadalajara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Guadalajara 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 Guadalajara.

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

Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Guadalajara. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara 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.