• Enjoy a view of the city from the Chicago River on your mini vacation.skyscrapers, chicago image by rese3282 from Fotolia.com
  
  Taking a cheap vacation may seem like an oxymoron, but it is absolutely possible. For those who need to travel not only on a budget, but also with a time constraint, Chicago may be the most ideal destination for a cheap mini vacation. The best way to plan an affordable vacation is to package as many activities and amenities into one single purchase using online planning sites.
  
  

Airfare, Hotel and Car Rental

• Depending on where you're travelling from, you may need any combination of air, hotel and car rental. Using a vacation website to bundle these needs may reduce the cost of a trip to Chicago.
  
  Reservations for a hotel and rental car for a weekend (Friday through Sunday) in Chicago range from $74 per person to up to $200 per person on Hotwire, according to 2010 pricing.
  
  Airfare varies depending on the departure city. If flying is necessary, view fares for the low-cost airliner Southwest Airlines or United Airlines, whose largest hub is at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport.
  
  

Activities and Sightseeing

• The key to any affordable trip is to plan ahead. Many Chicago attractions make this easy by allowing tourists to purchase the CityPASS Ticket Book or a Go Chicago Card.
  
  The CityPASS is a ticket book allowing visitors admission to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry and either the John Hancock Observatory or the Willis Tower. With the CityPASS, users save nearly 50 percent off of admissions.
  
  The Go Chicago Card is a longer term option, allowing admission to more than 30 attractions throughout Chicago. Users purchase the card based on the number of days of use. If the user needs admission to attractions for two days, the 2010 cost for an adult is approximately $95.
  
  Both options can be paired with other travel deals, including dining options and hotel accommodations.
  
  

Getting Around

• A train approaching the CTA 'L' platform on Wabash Avenue.l train, chicago image by Blu-Mu from Fotolia.com
  
  The best and most convenient way to get around Chicago is by using public transportation. Chicago has the most elaborate public transportation system next to New York City.
  
  The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is composed of eight train lines (designated by colors) and operates more than 140 bus routes. Visitors can purchase 1-Day and 3-Day CTA Fun Passes from the CTA for unlimited access to CTA trains and buses. As of 2010, a single ride costs a passenger $2.25. The 1-Day pass is $5.75 and the 3-Day pass is $14.