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
- Google Maps for public transport navigation.
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.