Chicago can be really expensive, but you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy it. You can see the city on a budget and experience it the way Chicagoans do. With a CTA Day Pass you can eat like a local, ride the L across town and explore neighborhoods full of character without overspending.
Skip the high hotel rates downtown and stay in North Center, Lakeview, Lakeview East, Lincoln Park or Wicker Park. You will save money, enjoy a neighborhood vibe and still have quick access to the city’s biggest attractions.
Once you arrive, park the car and leave it. The authentic Chicago experience happens on the L Trains or by bus, where a single pass gives you unlimited rides and the freedom to explore without worrying about $40 an hour parking. If public transit feels intimidating at first, Google Maps makes it simple and station staff are always available to help.
North Center
Residential and laid-back, North Center is a quieter neighborhood that still has plenty of charm and good food. It makes a great base if you want a calmer stay while keeping easy access to the rest of the city.
Neighborhood Vibe: Tree-lined streets, local restaurants and cozy corner bars.
Where to Eat:
Savanna Restaurant (famous for its Savanna Banana French Toast, $17.50, shareable and indulgent)
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro (classic Irish comfort food, $15–$20)
The Bad Apple (burgers and craft beer, $15–$18)
Downtown & The Lakefront
The Loop is where the city’s most famous attractions and bites come together. There is almost always a free concert or event happening.
Millennium Park & The Bean: Iconic and free.
Grant Park & Buckingham Fountain: Snap photos by day or see it lit up at night.
Chicago Riverwalk: Free and perfect for skyline views.
Where to Eat:
Lou Malnati’s (deep-dish pizza legend, $15–$20 for a personal)
Portillo’s (classic Chicago hot dog and Italian beef, $10–$12)
Lincoln Park
Just north of downtown, this neighborhood is green, family-friendly and full of budget-friendly gems.
Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory: A free, family-friendly spot where you can see lions, gorillas, zebras and penguins surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture.
Neighborhood Vibe: Boutique shops, coffeehouses and leafy streets.
Where to Eat:
Yolk (hearty breakfasts, $12–$15)
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken (donuts, breakfast sandwiches and fried chicken, $7–$12)
R.J. Grunts (retro burger joint across from the zoo, $12–$15)
Park Place Cafe at the Zoo (Chicago-style hotdog and fries, $10–$12)
Wicker Park & Logan Square
These artsy, hip neighborhoods are known for murals, coffee shops and buzzing nightlife.
Street Art & Murals: Explore alleys and side streets for Instagram-worthy shots.
Indie Shops & Record Stores: Great for browsing.
Where to Eat:
Big Star (tacos and patio vibes, $15)
The Wormhole Coffee (quirky coffeehouse with a DeLorean inside)
Lula Café (farm-to-table favorite with affordable brunch and lunch specials, $15–$20)
Chinatown
Affordable, delicious and packed with color.
Chinatown Square & Nine Dragon Wall: Free to explore.
Shops & Bakeries: Bubble tea, pastries and gifts.
Where to Eat:
Lao Sze Chuan (famous spicy Szechuan dishes, big portions)
MingHin Cuisine (dim sum standout, $10–$15 a dish)
Chiu Quon Bakery (cheap, tasty buns and pastries)
Navy Pier & The Waterfront
Touristy, yes, but still worth an evening stroll.
Free Views: Lake Michigan and city skyline.
Entertainment: Summer fireworks and music.
Where to Eat:
Giordano’s (another deep-dish classic if you want to compare to Lou’s)
Billy Goat Tavern (a Chicago institution made famous by SNL’s “cheezborger” skit)
Wrigleyville & Lakeview
Baseball, bars and casual eats define this lively area.
Wrigley Field: Even a peek from outside is fun.
Neighborhood Energy: Buzzing on game days.
Where to Eat:
Murphy’s Bleachers (classic Cubs bar food)
Al’s Beef (Italian beef sandwich, messy and perfect)
Southport Grocery & Café (known for brunch and cupcakes)
Lakeview East
Quieter than Wrigleyville, Lakeview East offers a more relaxed vibe with lakefront access and plenty of local dining.
Neighborhood Vibe: Residential, walkable and lined with neighborhood restaurants and shops.
Where to Eat:
Crisp (Korean fried chicken, $12–$15)
The Bagel Restaurant & Deli (classic Jewish deli, hearty breakfasts and sandwiches, $10–$15)
Intelligentsia Coffee (local roaster with a flagship cafe on Broadway, $4–$6 for coffee and pastries)
Splurges
If you have a little extra in the budget, treat yourself to an experience that makes Chicago unforgettable.
Architecture Boat Tour – $40–$50
Cubs Game at Wrigley Field – $25–$80+
Chinatown Food Tour – $50–$65
The Bear-Inspired Food Tour – $129 per person
Centennial Wheel – $19 per person
Art Institute of Chicago – $25 per person
Museum of Science and Industry – $25 per person
Shedd Aquarium – $40 per person
Field Museum – $30 per person
Chicago CityPASS – $134 per adult, $104 per child
If you plan to visit several of these attractions, CityPASS bundles admission to the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum and Skydeck Chicago, plus your choice of two more spots like the Adler Planetarium, Art Institute of Chicago or Museum of Science and Industry. You’ll save about 50 percent compared to buying tickets separately.
Super Fan of The Bear but need a Budget-Friendly Alternative?
The guided tour gives you the full experience, but the DIY version will fill you up for under $40 while letting you step into Carmy and Sydney’s Chicago. Create your own Bear-inspired food crawl and hit a few of the show’s favorite spots:
Mr. Beef (River North): Italian beef sandwich, about $9.
Margie’s Candies (Logan Square): Classic sundae, about $9.
Pizza Lobo (Logan Square): Thick, crispy slice, about $5.
Roeser’s Bakery (near Logan Square): Strawberry donut, $5–$6.
Wrapping Up
Before heading home, take a moment to slow down. Grab breakfast or coffee at a neighborhood cafe, then wander the side streets near where you stayed to soak in Chicago one last time. On our last trip in North Center, we woke up to the sound of a jazz band and found a farmers' market right across the street. It was the perfect sendoff before hitting the road.
The takeaway: You can ride the L, eat deep dish and hot dogs, stroll free attractions and explore lively neighborhoods for about $40 to $50 a day. Even with a splurge or two you will spend less than most tourists while experiencing the best of Chicago.
What's your favorite spot in Chicago?
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