Visiting Chicago on a Budget: From Affordable Eats to Discounted Shows

The Windy City is a vibrant cultural center with countless attractions, but you don't need to overspend to enjoy it.

While accommodation can be pricey and you might want to save for special outings, there are plenty of free activities, discounted tickets, delicious affordable food, and budget-friendly public transport options available.

We have all the essential tips and strategies for enjoying Chicago on a budget.

Daily Expenses in Chicago

• Hostel accommodation: $35-55 (dormitory)
• Standard double room: $160-275
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $95-180
• Public transit ticket: $5 for a day pass
• Coffee: $3
• Hot dog: $5-6
• Dinner for two: $35-70
• Pint of craft beer at a bar: $7-8

1. Determine which Chicago airport offers the best flight deals

Chicago is served by two airports: O’Hare and Midway. Both host budget airlines with similar transport costs to downtown, although Midway is a bit cheaper as it’s closer. Spirit and JetBlue generally operate from O’Hare, while Southwest and Allegiant fly into Midway, and Frontier serves both airports. O’Hare also serves as a hub for United and American Airlines, often offering discounted fares.

2. Utilize the L train for airport transfers

Both airports provide convenient access to downtown via public transport, specifically the L train, which costs around $5 and takes about 40 minutes from O'Hare, while it costs about $2.50 and takes 30 minutes from Midway.

O’Hare features its own Blue Line station, while Midway boasts an Orange Line station; trains run approximately every 10 minutes. This method is significantly more economical than taxis, Uber, or Lyft, which can be ten times pricier and take nearly as long due to Chicago's notorious traffic.

3. Navigate the city using Chicago’s public transport system

Parking fees can quickly eat into your budget. Downtown parking meters charge around $7 per hour, while garages typically cost about $40 per day. Additionally, driving in the congested city can be frustrating – using public transport is the smarter choice.

Chicago’s L train network features eight distinct color-coded lines that connect to most attractions and neighborhoods. Buses fill in the gaps where the L doesn’t reach.

Looking for a deal? An unlimited-ride day pass is available for $5 and works on all trains and buses. Purchase it at any L station (including airports) or through the Ventra app. You can also opt for a rechargeable Ventra Card, which saves you about $0.50 per ride compared to single-use tickets.

4. Catch a water taxi

Chicago’s architectural boat tours are incredibly popular, and for good reason. It’s exhilarating to glide along the river and gaze up at the skyscrapers. However, if a guided tour over $50 isn’t in your budget, don’t worry. The Chicago Water Taxi operates along the river and offers a day pass for just $10.

The boats run from the Michigan Avenue Bridge to Madison Street and further to Chinatown, providing you with that refreshing wind-in-your-hair experience.

5. Travel in spring or autumn for cost savings

Chicago experiences its peak season during summer (June to August), when hotel prices are generally higher. Winter (December to March) is the most affordable time to visit, though the cold and snow may not be appealing. Spring and fall represent the shoulder seasons, offering a blend of good weather and attractive deals.

6. Think about staying in a hostel

Chicago boasts a variety of excellent hostels. The iconic HI Chicago is located right in downtown.Wrigley Hostel is a lively spot near the north side baseball park, while Chicago Getaway Hostel has welcomed travelers for years in the vibrant Lincoln Park area.

Additionally, Freehand Chicago and Found Hotel are hybrid hostel-hotels packed with bars, situated at the northern edge of downtown. 

7. Search for accommodations outside the downtown area

Steering clear of the Loop, Near North, Gold Coast, and West Loop—Chicago’s hotel-heavy districts—can lead to lower rates. Explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Lake View, both just north of downtown and rich with bars and restaurants, as well as Wicker Park, northwest of downtown, known for its vibrant nightlife and shops. 

Even more affordable areas include Logan Square, Pilsen, Ukrainian Village, and Andersonville. Most lodging options in these outlying neighborhoods are apartment rentals, allowing you to save further by preparing some meals yourself. However, it’s essential to stay near an L station, so be sure to check this before booking.

8. Stroll through a market

From May to October, farmers markets spring up across the city, offering budget-friendly meals. Green City Market boasts the largest selection, featuring everything from pies to pickles to pastas, on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Lincoln Park. The Logan Square market enhances its offerings with live music alongside fresh fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods on Sundays. Meanwhile, downtown’s Daley Plaza showcases fresh produce and Amish baked goods every Thursday.

Although it leans more towards crafts and clothing, Sunday’s Maxwell Street Market has become a favorite among food lovers looking for homemade churros, tamales, and other Mexican dishes.

9. Explore affordable dining options in Pilsen, Chinatown, Uptown, and Humboldt Park 

Many neighborhoods are fantastic for finding budget-friendly meals, featuring a variety of quality cafes and family-owned eateries within easy walking distance. In Pilsen, 18th Street is lined with Mexican bakeries and taquerias, alongside trendy coffee shops and barbecue spots. Meanwhile, Chinatown along Wentworth Avenue boasts an array of tart-filled bakeries and dim sum restaurants. 

In Uptown, Argyle Street is home to Thai and Vietnamese noodle shops that fill the area known as “Little Saigon.” Over in Humboldt Park along Division Street, cozy eateries serve robust coffee, roasted pork, spiced rice, and other Puerto Rican favorites.

10. Track down the food trucks

Chicago has a limited number of food trucks, but those that operate serve delicious tacos, Vietnamese banh mi, soul food, and more at reasonable prices. They typically frequent areas with lots of office workers, like the Loop and Near North during lunch hours, and shift to nightlife hotspots such as Wicker Park and Lake View in the evenings. 

On summer Fridays, food trucks gather at Daley Plaza for lunch. Check Street Food Finder for their locations.

11. Get a discount pass to save on attractions

There are a few options that can cut admission costs by 30% or more. CityPass allows access to five major attractions in the city, including the Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium and Willis Tower Skydeck over a nine-day period. 

The Go Chicago Pass includes around 25 attractions, covering all museums (excluding the Art Institute) and various bus and boat tours. You pay a single fee for one, two, three, or five consecutive days, granting unlimited visits during that time frame. 

12. Explore Hot Tix for discounted theater tickets

Hot Tix offers same-week theater tickets at half price. You'll find options in drama, comedy, and performing arts from venues across the city, including renowned spots like the Lyric Opera and Steppenwolf Theatre. You can book online or visit Hot Tix outlets downtown at 72 E Randolph Street and 108 N State Street. Arriving earlier in the week gives you a wider selection.

13. Be aware of your baseball choices 

Chicago is home to two professional baseball teams. The Cubs play at historic Wrigley Field, known for its classic hand-turned scoreboard, neon sign, and vintage charm. The White Sox compete at Guaranteed Rate Field on the south side, which boasts a more modern design. 

While Cubs game tickets are often pricier, the Upper Reserved Infield seats offer a more affordable option. Though higher up, they still provide good views. For the White Sox, the best ticket deals can usually be found on Sundays and Mondays.

14. Make the most of free activities

Chicago boasts a wealth of completely free attractions. Enjoy summer concerts at Millennium Park, explore fantastic art displays at the Chicago Cultural Center, visit the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo, admire the blooms at Garfield Park Conservatory, take a guided city tour with Chicago Greeter, and much more.