Explore Chicago on a Budget: Your Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Day for Under $99

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Visit Chicago for Less Than $99 a Day

Chicago, the Windy City, is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and deep-rooted history. Whether you’re craving deep-dish pizza or eager to explore world-class museums, Chicago has something to offer everyone. However, traveling can often come at a high price. The good news is that you can visit Chicago for less than $99 a day! In this article, we’ll highlight budget-friendly options for exploring the city, from places to eat to free attractions and affordable accommodation.

Daily Budget Breakdown

Below is a suggested budget breakdown for spending a day in Chicago on less than $99.

Category Estimated Cost
Accommodation $50
Meals $25
Transportation $10
Attractions/Activities $10
Total $95

Where to Stay

Finding affordable accommodation is essential. Here are a few budget-friendly options:

Accommodation Type Location Estimated Cost
Hostels Near downtown $25-$40/night
Budget Hotels Various locations $50-$70/night
Airbnb Various locations $30-$80/night

Recommended Budget Accommodation

1. HI Chicago Hostel
– Price: Around $30 per night for shared dorm rooms.
– Location: Located in the South Loop, it’s close to public transportation.
HI Chicago Hostel

2. B River Hotel
– Price: Approximately $60 per night for basic rooms near the Chicago River.
– Location: Close to major attractions like Millennium Park.
B River Hotel

Eating on a Budget

When it comes to food, Chicago has a range of affordable dining options. Here’s a list of budget-friendly eateries:

Restaurant Type of Food Estimated Cost
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Deep-Dish Pizza $10-$15
Portillo’s Chicago-style Hot Dogs $5-$10
Al’s Beef Italian Beef Sandwich $8-$12
Giordano’s Stuffed Pizza $15-$20

Tips for Affordable Dining

  • Food Trucks: Located throughout downtown, they offer delicious meals for around $5-$10.
  • Lunch Specials: Many restaurants provide discounted lunch menus.

Getting Around

Chicago’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. Here are some options:

Transportation Type Estimated Cost
CTA Train Ride $2.50 each way
CTA Bus Ride $2.50 each way
1-Day Unlimited Pass $10.00

Useful Links for Transit

Attractions and Activities

There are numerous free or low-cost attractions in Chicago that will allow you to soak in the beauty of the city without breaking the bank:

Attraction Cost
Millennium Park Free
Lincoln Park Zoo Free
Art Institute of Chicago $25 (free on Tuesdays)
The Chicago Riverwalk Free

Local Events and Festivals

Chicago hosts a variety of events that offer free or low-cost admission throughout the year:

  • Chicago Air and Water Show (August)
  • Chicago Gourmet (September)
  • Chicago Blues Festival (June)

Conclusion

Visiting Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning, you can visit Chicago for less than $99 a day and still enjoy the magnificent experiences the city has to offer. From affordable accommodation and delicious meals to free attractions, Chicago is a vibrant city that invites travelers from all walks of life. Start planning your budget-friendly adventure to the Windy City today!

For more tips on budget travel, check out Budget Travel.

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