Chicago vs New Orleans
Chicago or New Orleans? Best season, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining and where to stay, compared side by side.
Chicago or New Orleans? Side-by-side on best time to go, ideal length of stay, neighbourhoods, dining, costs and where to stay — with a clear verdict.
Chicago, United States
Chicago is America's architecture capital: a skyline of landmark towers rises along the river and Lake Michigan, backed by world-class museums, a celebrated dining scene and the Magnificent Mile's shopping. A luxury stay works best in late spring through early autumn, when the lakefront, rooftop bars and architecture cruises are at their best.
- Getting around: The 'L' trains connect both airports to downtown: the Blue Line serves O'Hare and the Orange Line serves Midway. Downtown is walkable, and taxis and ride-hailing are easy to find. Arrange a car service for airport transfers if you are arriving with luggage at rush hour.
- What to avoid: Visiting in deep winter unless you are prepared for freezing lake winds.,Driving downtown, where parking is expensive and traffic is slow.,Asking for ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog.,Leaving architecture cruise tickets until the day in summer, when departures sell out.
Where to base yourself in Chicago
- River North & Streeterville: Central and polished, around the Magnificent Mile with flagship stores and many of the city's luxury hotels. Best for Shopping, hotels within walking distance of the lake and the river.. An evening walk along the Chicago Riverwalk.
- The Loop: The historic business district of landmark skyscrapers, theatres and Millennium Park. Best for Architecture, the Art Institute and Millennium Park.. Cloud Gate and the Art Institute of Chicago on the same morning.
- Gold Coast: Elegant tree-lined streets of mansions and brownstones near Oak Street Beach. Best for Boutique shopping on Oak Street and a quieter, residential feel.. Oak Street's designer boutiques, then the lakefront path.
- West Loop & Fulton Market: Former meatpacking warehouses now home to the city's busiest restaurant row. Best for Dining, cocktails and design hotels.. Dinner along Randolph Street's restaurant row.
Dining in Chicago
- Alinea: Progressive tasting menu. The full tasting menu, known for theatrical courses and edible balloons.
- Smyth: Contemporary American tasting menu. The seasonal tasting menu built on produce from the restaurant's partner farm.
- Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: Steakhouse. A prime steak and an oversized slice of cake to share.
Planning details for Chicago
- Take the Chicago Architecture Center's river cruise early in your trip to understand the skyline.
- Book Art Institute tickets online to skip the line.
- Walk or cycle the Lakefront Trail for the best free views of the city.
- Pack layers, even in summer; the lake can drop temperatures quickly.
New Orleans, United States
New Orleans, Louisiana, beckons with an intoxicating blend of rich cultural heritage, unparalleled musical rhythms, and a distinctive culinary scene. This vibrant city offers a luxury journey into its soulful depths, from opulent French Quarter courtyards to sophisticated jazz clubs and gastronomic masterpieces, all steeped in an alluring, historic charm.
- Getting around: For luxury transit, a dedicated chauffeured sedan or SUV is highly recommended, especially for airport transfers and excursions outside the city center. Within the French Quarter, walking is the most charming option, while elegant streetcars offer a quintessential New Orleans experience for longer distances, such as to the Garden District.
- What to avoid: Venture too far off well-lit main streets late at night alone, especially in less familiar areas.,Assuming casual attire is acceptable everywhere; many fine dining establishments have dress codes.,Only sticking to Bourbon Street; the true spirit and luxury of New Orleans lie in its diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.
Where to base yourself in New Orleans
- French Quarter: Historic, vibrant, and enchanting. Iron-laced balconies, gas lamps, and a living history. Best for History, architecture, nightlife, and iconic New Orleans experiences.. A private historical walking tour revealing the Quarter's hidden stories and courtyards.
- Garden District: Gracious, opulent, and serene. Grand mansions, lush gardens, and oak-lined streets. Best for Architecture enthusiasts, peaceful strolls, and a glimpse into Southern aristocracy.. A leisurely afternoon admiring the magnificent homes and manicured landscapes.
- Uptown: Chic, residential, and gastronomic. Home to Tulane and Loyola universities, charming boutiques, and superb dining. Best for Local culture, sophisticated dining, and a less touristy experience.. Exploring Magazine Street for unique boutiques and art galleries.
- Marigny/Bywater: Bohemian, artistic, and musically rich. Live music venues, colorful homes, and a strong local arts scene. Best for Jazz clubs, emerging art, and an authentic, edgy New Orleans atmosphere.. Catching an impromptu jazz performance on Frenchmen Street.
Dining in New Orleans
- Commander's Palace: Haute Creole, Traditional. Turtle Soup, Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish, and the famous Bread Pudding Soufflé. Opt for the jazz brunch.
- Emeril's New Orleans: New Louisiana, Contemporary. BBQ Shrimp, and anything off their daily fresh seafood specials.
- Brennan's: Creole, Classic Finer Dining. Eggs Hussarde for breakfast, and Bananas Foster prepared tableside for dinner.
Planning details for New Orleans
- Hire a private guide for a bespoke tour of the French Quarter, focusing on specific interests like literature, voodoo, or hidden courtyards.
- Beyond Bourbon Street, explore the vibrant live music scene on Frenchmen Street in the Marigny for authentic jazz and local bands.
- Consider a private swamp tour with an experienced naturalist for a unique encounter with Louisiana's rich wildlife.
How to choose
- Chicago suits travellers who want its particular character
- New Orleans suits travellers who want its particular character
- Both sit in North America; check distance and transport before combining them.
Chicago city guide · New Orleans city guide
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Published by Peters Signature Travel.