Top 10 Tips for your Chicago-style Vacation
Chicago is definitely worth a visit! With its world-renowned museums, architecture, and food scene, there is something for everyone in the Windy City.
When in doubt, buy yourself a vacation package that includes all the major tourist attractions. You'll save money and time, and you can relax knowing that everything is taken care of. In no particular order, here are our top tips for enjoying all that Chicago has to offer without breaking the bank:
1. Get a CityPASS
If you're planning on doing a lot of sightseeing while in Chicago, then CityPASS is a great way to save some money. The CityPASS gives you access to some of the most popular attractions in the city, including the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium.
2. Visit the free attractions
There are plenty of great things to see and do in Chicago that won't cost you a dime. The Lincoln Park Zoo and the Art Institute of Chicago both offer free admission, and there are plenty of free concerts and festivals to enjoy throughout the year.
3. Dine out during Restaurant Week
Chicago's Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to enjoy some of the city's best cuisine at a fraction of the usual cost. Participating restaurants offer prix-fixe menus at lunch and dinner, and you can often find deals on hotel rooms and other attractions during this time as well.
4. Book a Chicago Limo Service
While it may not be the cheapest option, booking a limo service for your transportation needs is a great way to see the city in style. Many services offer package deals that include attractions and dining, so be sure to shop around for the best deal.
5. Look for accommodation deals
If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can often find great deals on hotels and other accommodations. Many Chicago attractions offer discounts for booking your tickets in advance, so be sure to check for deals before you travel.
6. Look for flight deals
Chicago is a popular destination, so there are often deals to be found on flights to the city. If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can often save money by flying to a nearby airport like O'Hare or Midway.
Try looking up flights on Tuesday mornings as many airlines release their deals then. Also, booking way ahead of time or at the last minute can often lead to savings as well.
7. Walk or bike whenever possible
Chicago is a great city for walking and biking, and you'll often find that it's the quickest way to get around. Plus, you'll get to see more of the city and its attractions if you're not stuck on public transportation.
8. Find Deals on Attractions and Dining
There are plenty of ways to save money on attractions and dining in Chicago. Many attractions offer discounts for AAA members, students, and seniors, so be sure to ask about any deals that may be available. Some of the places that you can visit without breaking the bank include the Museum of Science and Industry, the Navy Pier, and the John G. Shedd Aquarium. You can also find coupons for restaurants and other attractions in the Chicago Tribune and other local publications.
9. Visit the city during the off-season
If you're looking to save money on your Chicago vacation, then consider visiting during the off-season. Many attractions offer discounts during this time, and you'll often find that hotels and other accommodations are much cheaper as well.
10. Travel with a group
Traveling with a group is a great way to save money on your Chicago vacation. Many attractions offer group discounts, and you'll often find that you can get better deals on hotels and transportation when you're traveling with a larger group. Plus, you'll have more fun exploring the city with your friends or family.
These are just a few of our top tips for saving money on your Chicago vacation. Be sure to do your research before you travel, and you'll be sure to find plenty of ways to save. With a little planning, you can enjoy all that Chicago has to offer without breaking the bank.