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

Should you visit La Paz or Chicago?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Chicago can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See La Paz travel costs.

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. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and beaches. See Chicago travel costs.

La Paz and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than La Paz, 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, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while La Paz is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. 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 La Paz different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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).

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Chicago just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a live music destination.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Resorts?

La Paz is very good for its resorts. However, Chicago is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Chicago is not a resort destination.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Chicago is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Beaches?

La Paz is renowned for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

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 La Paz or Chicago?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Is La Paz or Chicago More Beautiful?

Chicago is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Is La Paz or Chicago Better for Couples?

Both La Paz and Chicago are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

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 La Paz or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

La Paz is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

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 La Paz or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is a world-class destination for students. However, La Paz 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.

La Paz is not popular with students.

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

Chicago is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Chicago can get you around easily. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

La Paz has some public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Is La Paz or Chicago a more walkable city?

La Paz and Chicago both are superb when exploring on foot.

La Paz is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable.

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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Chicago?

In either La Paz or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than La Paz because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

Families should spend more time in Chicago than La Paz. 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 La Paz. 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 La Paz 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 La Paz or Chicago?

In La Paz, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Chicago?

In La Paz, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

Chicago is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Chicago?

La Paz is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the diverse big city of Chicago. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors 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 La Paz and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 La Paz.

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

Which is Bigger, La Paz or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz 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 La Paz or Chicago?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Chicago. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Chicago. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit La Paz or Chicago in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the autumn, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Chicago. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Chicago. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. La Paz is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during winter. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Chicago. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit La Paz or Chicago in the Spring?

Both Chicago and La Paz during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the spring, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Chicago. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and La Paz