I love Chicago so much and always went on my own when I went. I think the rest of the posts have already clarified how racist and problematic that comment is, so I am skipping by that.
One thing I always recommend to anyone going to visit: do a historical building river tour! Such a fun way to see the city Touristy but really nice.
Good grief. Whoever is telling you that is wrong. Are there dangerous areas? Sure, but guess what - every city has dangerous areas. The folks that are saying this is politics and racism are 100% correct.
I lived there for years and travel back at least monthly, and am often alone downtown, even at night. It’s fine. Chicago is a wonderful city with great food and tons to see and do - go and enjoy.
I go once a year by myself for work. I always get nervous because I don't like traveling alone (anywhere) but I've never had any issues. I'm not one to venture out at night by myself but I don't see why it would be a problem as long as you take the normal precautions you would practice anywhere. I usually stay on Michigan Ave/Magnificent Mile. That area is always very populated so that makes me feel safer.
Post by RoxMonster on Feb 26, 2024 13:13:53 GMT -5
Love Chicago! Grew up near there and have been countless times. I agree that Sept would be a lovely time to go.
Lots of great food - we enjoyed our dinner at Girl and the Goat as well as Frontera Grill. The art museum is cool if that interests you, and I also really enjoyed the Museum of Science and Industry.
On a nice day, I like just walking along the lakeshore and people watching. I’ve heard awesome things about the architectural boat tours though I haven’t done one yet.
Post by ellipses84 on Feb 26, 2024 19:11:48 GMT -5
I’ve traveled there alone for work and it was amazing! I don’t think the safety factor is any different than any other city in the U.S. Early Fall is a gorgeous time to go but it could definitely get colder in October. I’ve actually only been there in nice weather because my DH is from IL and avoids it when it’s cold (I have been to his hometown in all seasons).
Post by medicmommy on Feb 26, 2024 19:36:19 GMT -5
I’m there every few weeks for work by myself. It’s just like any other big city. Common sense and paying attention to your surroundings will go a long way. All of the things that you mentioned are in busier places and should be fine.
Post by cricketwife on Feb 26, 2024 20:09:57 GMT -5
We went there for our family vacation last summer and LOVED, LOVED, LOVED it. Obviously, I can’t speak to the traveling alone part, but I also heard all the comments about it being unsafe before we went. 🙄
We loved all the big tourist attractions. The Skydeck was our favorite. In addition to the “big stuff” I also really enjoyed Chicago’s Fed Money Museum. I really wanted to do the tour of the Rookery Building (which is right across the street from the money museum) but we didn’t because of the kids.
We found everyone to be very “Midwest nice.” Although my husband said, “I’m not sure if it’s ‘Midwest nice’ or just that everyone is passively high.” Not sure that he’s wrong! 🤣
It would never occur to me that’s it’s too dangerous to go alone.
I’ve been a handful of times over the years; my favourite things I’ve done are the Field Museum, and the architectural boat tour. I would suggest going in the summer if you can, mostly because a boat tour would be more pleasant when it’s warm. Navy Pier is fun, too - I feel like that’s a must-do, and doesn’t take too long yo see.