Chicago Budget Guide Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, world-class attractions, and culinary delights.
Whether you’re strolling along the Lakefront Trail, visiting iconic museums, or savoring deep-dish pizza, the city has something for everyone.
Planning your budget wisely ensures you’ll get the most out of your four-day trip. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you might expect to spend daily in Chicago, excluding accommodation costs.
Food and Dining Costs
Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of street food, casual eateries, and fine dining. Here’s what you can expect:
Breakfast
Start your day at a local café or diner. Options range from grab-and-go pastries to hearty breakfasts at spots like Lou Mitchell’s or Yolk.
-
Cost: $10–$15
Lunch
For lunch, you might try iconic Chicago foods like an Italian beef sandwich, a Chicago-style hot dog, or a slice of deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s.
-
Cost: $15–$25
Dinner
Dinner can vary depending on where you go. Consider dining in the West Loop, known for its trendy restaurants like Girl & the Goat, or explore ethnic cuisines in neighborhoods like Chinatown or Pilsen.
-
Casual Dining: $25–$40
-
Fine Dining: $50–100+
Snacks and Coffee
Budget for midday coffee stops or snacks from places like Stan’s Donuts or Garrett Popcorn.
-
Cost: $5–$10
Estimated Daily Food Costs: $55–$100
Transportation Costs
Chicago Budget Guide Getting around Chicago is easy and affordable thanks to its robust public transit system and walkable neighborhoods.
Public Transit
Chicago Budget Guide The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates the "L" trains and buses, which are the most efficient way to explore the city. A Ventra card allows unlimited rides with a 1-day pass costing $5 and a 3-day pass at $15.
-
Cost: $5–10 per day
Biking
The Lakefront Trail offers 18 miles of scenic biking along Lake Michigan. You can rent a Divvy bike for about $15/day.
-
Cost: $10–15 per day
Rideshare or Taxis
For trips to areas less accessible by public transit, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are convenient but can add up.
-
Cost: $15–25 per ride (use sparingly)
Estimated Daily Transportation Costs: $10–30
Attractions and Activities
Chicago is home to world-class museums, architectural landmarks, and iconic experiences. Depending on your interests, here’s what you might spend:
Museums and Attractions
-
Art Institute of Chicago: $25
-
Field Museum: $29
-
Shedd Aquarium: $39.95
-
Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower): $30–44
If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Chicago CityPASS ($134) offers discounted access to five major venues.
Free Activities
-
Millennium Park: Home to "The Bean," a must-see photo spot.
-
Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the oldest free zoos in the U.S.
-
Chicago Riverwalk: A scenic spot to relax and enjoy the skyline.
Live Entertainment
Chicago Budget Guide Chicago is known for its theatre scene. Catch a performance at Steppenwolf Theatre or a comedy show at Second City.
-
Cost: $40–100+
Biking or Walking Tours
-
Guided tours offer unique perspectives on the city. Architecture boat tours start at around $45.
Estimated Daily Activity Costs: $40–80
Shopping and Souvenirs
Whether you’re picking up a Cubs jersey, artisanal chocolates from Vosges, or a keepsake from a museum gift shop, Chicago offers plenty of opportunities for shopping.
-
Budget: $10–20/day for small souvenirs or extras.
Sample Daily Budget
Chicago Budget Guide Here’s a breakdown of a typical day in Chicago
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Midrange Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Drink | $55 | $75 | $100+ |
| Transportation | $10 | $20 | $30 |
| Attractions | $40 | $60 | $100+ |
| Shopping & Souvenirs | $10 | $20 | $50+ |
| Total | $115 | $175 | $280+ |
Tips to Save Money in Chicago
-
CityPASS: If you’re visiting multiple major attractions, the Chicago CityPASS saves money and often allows skip-the-line entry.
-
Free Days: Many museums offer free admission days for Illinois residents, but some, like the Lincoln Park Zoo, are free for everyone year-round.
-
Public Transit: The CTA offers affordable travel options—take the "L" instead of rideshares.
-
Eat Like a Local: Skip expensive tourist traps and try local gems like Portillo’s for Italian beef or a classic Chicago-style hot dog.
-
Stay Walkable: Plan activities around neighborhoods like the Loop or River North to minimize transportation costs.
Conclusion
Chicago Budget Guide For a four-day trip, depending on your travel style, you should plan to spend anywhere from $115 to $280+ per day280+ per day, you should plan to spend anywhere from $115 to $280+ per day, depending on your travel style.
By balancing paid attractions with free activities, using public transit, and exploring local dining options, you’ll enjoy the best of the Windy City without breaking the bank.
Whether it’s exploring world-class museums, cycling along the lakefront, or indulging in Chicago’s vibrant food scene, every dollar spent in this dynamic city is worth it.