Chicago/ Health & Lifestyle
Published on July 24, 2019
Escape from Chicago to Nassau on a budgetPhoto: iStock

According to Conde Nast, the Bahamas was among 2018's must-visit destinations. If you're considering a tropical vacation, why not Nassau, the Bahamian capital? It lies on the island of New Providence, with neighboring Paradise Island, which is accessible via Nassau Harbor bridges. A popular cruise ship stop, the city has a hilly landscape and is known for beaches as well as its offshore coral reefs, popular for diving and snorkeling. It retains many of its typical pastel-colored British colonial buildings, like the pink-hued Government House.

Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Chicago and Nassau on travel site Skyscanner.

Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Nassau to get you excited about your next excursion. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Cheapest Nassau flights

The cheapest flights between Chicago and Nassau are if you leave on Sept. 21 and return from the Bahamas on Sept. 26. JetBlue currently has tickets for $345, roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had in August. If you fly out of Chicago on Aug. 27 and return from Nassau on Aug. 31, jetBlue can get you there and back for $406 roundtrip.

Top Nassau hotels

To plan your stay, here are two of Nassau’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Melia Nassau Beach Resort (West Bay Street)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Melia Nassau Beach Resort. The hotel has a four-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $189.

This resort sits near Cable Beach and the Cable Beach Golf Club. 

The Reef Atlantis (1 Casino Drive)

There's also the 4.4-star rated The Reef Atlantis, which has rooms for $179/night.

"The food was excellent, the grounds amazing and the experience as a whole was really fun. The water slide through the shark tank was a highlight," wrote visitor Ryan.

Featured Nassau food and drink

Nassau has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.

Twin Brothers (Nassau)

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Twin Brothers, which has an average of 4.7 stars out of 34 reviews on Skyscanner.

"Great place to go eat 'real' Bahamian food," wrote visitor Daniel. "Definitely try the conch fish. It's a Bahamian favorite."

The Poopdeck at Sandyport (Sandyport Marina Village)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is The Poopdeck at Sandyport.

The spot offers local seafood with a gourmet twist, accompanied by ocean views.

"Has a local band often, and beach views are fabulous," wrote April.

Cafe Matisse (Bank Lane)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Cafe Matisse.

At this location, filet mignon, seafood dishes and homemade pastas are served in an old colonial home lined with Matisse prints.

"Make sure you ask for a table in the picturesque courtyard so you enjoy beautiful scenery while a team of impeccably trained chefs and servers deliver gourmet dishes, like lobster ravioli and hearty rosemary steaks, that are guaranteed to impress," wrote Ramona.

Top Nassau attractions

To round out your trip, Nassau offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are a couple of top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.

National Art Gallery of the Bahamas (Villa Doyle)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The top-rated visitor attraction in Nassau, according to Skyscanner, is National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.

"This is my go-to place every time I visit Nassau," wrote visitor Donna. "Building is beautiful and exhibits are true Bahamian art. ... Be sure to ask about the history of Amos Ferguson — it's a very interesting story. His works tour the Bahamian islands."

Love Beach (New Providence Island)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Then, there's Love Beach.

A popular snorkeling destination, Love Beach sits on 40 protected acres of coral.

"The name says it all, " wrote visitor John. "This beach is romantic and evocative."


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.