is chicago as scary as i think it is?

Question

I must go to Chicago in April

It seems like a scary place to visit..

I'm from Canada and am not use to the states at all..

and is it as dangerous as I'm thinking it is..

keeping in mind i'm a native canadian small girl

Answer 1

It's a big city with over 2 million people. It can be overwhelming. But is also has many areas that are small and quaint. Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, meaning the individual neighborhoods are sort of like small cities. You really don't have to leave the neighborhood for a lot of things, like grocery shopping, furniture shopping, etc. But the public parts of the city are great. Lots of park space, theater, museums, etc. it's a great city. Yes, it can be dangerous. Like I said, it's a big city and all big cities have crime... even Toronto. But if you know where you're going and if possible stay with a group, you'll be ok. Even if you're by yourself, you can be safe. You just have to be aware of your surroundings. People here are pretty helpful in general, so if you get lost or something, just ask someone. and if you find yourself in a situation that you don't think is safe, don't be afraid to leave or say so. If someone is bother you, tell them (firmly) to get lost. Some people are afraid of offending someone if they're wrong, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Familiarize yourself with the bus and train routes if possible. Do you know where you will be staying? Find out what is in that area, memorize it so you can get the right directions in case you have to travel a bit. Like i said, as big as Chicago is, it can be scary. But there's so much to do here that it would be a shame not experience it just once.

Answer 2

I used to live in the middle of nowwhere and now i live in the western suburbs of chicago. I'm a teenager and the best thing that my friends and i do to have fun is take the metra into the City. I dont think its scary unless its in the gehtto or something. and even then its not that bad. The only thing that you should do if your younger is have someone with you. Dont go anywhere alone. I'm not allowed to go into the City unless i have 2 or more friends with me. but other than that we go in and we walk around the city all day. Its fun and thrilling especially since you get to be in controll of yourself and no adults are with you. People say that teenagers cause all the trouble, but we are just like adults walking around the city. never once have we gotten into trouble and we havent ever gotten hurt. I'd say you'll have a blast in the city. dont think about dangerous things, because it will ruin your fun. Keep and open mind about everything. Just use common sence thats all you really need.

Answer 3

I grew up in a small town in the U.S. and have now lived in Chicago for five years. I was a little intimidated by the thought of moving here, but once I was here the intimidation became exhiliration. It's a great city. Here are a few tips:

Getting around: Walking is a great way to see the city. Public transportation is also very convenient, but it can sometimes be confusing if you've never used it before. If you're worried that you might get lost, you can always get around via taxi. If most of your business is downtown, taxis won't cost you very much. (The one exception is from the airport to downtown. For that trip, a taxi can cost $30-$40. I strongly suggest taking the L)

Personal safety: You have a very insignificant chance of being injured by traffic or being assaulted/mugged, but it never hurts to be careful. Look both ways at intersections. Obey the "Walk"/"Don't walk" signs, even when other people seem to ignore them. Keep your purse zipped closed and with you at all times. If you leave something on the street or if something falls out of your purse, it'll probably be snatched up. In the evenings, stick to well-lit streets with other people around and you'll be totally fine.

Most Chicagoans are friendly, approachable and good-natured. Enjoy your visit!

Answer 4

Chicago is the City of Big Shoulders. You will be fine here. People are friendly. There are plenty of patrol cars, taxis, etc. You won't have a problem.

Just stay out of dark alleys at night.

Where in Chicago are you visiting in April? The weather should be nice. Make sure to stop along the Lakefront for wonderful views.

Answer 5

I'd say, Chicago is one of the best cities around. I'd love to visit there. I'd go see the Oprah Winfrey's show. Try to get tickets. You'll have a great time. Chicago isn't any more dangerous than most other places. I wouldn't want to roam around the streets by myself late at night there or anywhere else.

Answer 6

Downtown Chicago is very safe. Absolutely nothing to worry about. I live 40 minutes south of Chicago near a farm. I go downtown quite often...by myself...at night. Now, if you leave the downtown area, there can be problems. But you would actually have to get in your car and purposely head to the bad neighborhoods. Driving downtown Chicago is a pain though.

Answer 7

It's not as dangerous as you think it is. Most of downtown Chicago is very safe. The stuff you hear about, with the murders and the scary stuff, that mostly happens in a five block area on the far west side, far from where you're likely to be.

That's not to say you shouldn't keep your wits about you - it's a big city. But that said, almost everywhere you're likely to be - downtown, Michigan Avenue, Lincoln Park, etc. - is going to be filled with people day and night, and you'll probably be impressed how safe you feel.

Answer 8

okay well to tell u the truth gary indiana was the murder captial but u in chicago and what the **** u havent beent to the states u miss out on so much the south and only new york and illionis is great.

have fun but why should u be scared u realy think that walking down town or something ur going to get murddered mudrers happen in robberys and bulgrary and fights really what are the chances ur going to die like 1in a million from murdder.

texas is better but look that lady says nyc new york city dosent nearly have as much violent crime as chicago but la is ahead.

and dont visit the south the north is nice like the trendy areas.

and if u ride the metro make conversation if u want.

its not like ur going to the hood if u do then u could get hurt like the south if ur from there it wouldnt be bad but. ur not. dont go passed china town.

best regardes

Answer 9

Where in Chicago are you traveling? If you're downtown, you'll be fine. Anywhere you visit, you should always be aware of your surroundings....don't get distracted by a cell phone conversation, for example. You'll be fine...enjoy the sites, Chicago has a lot to offer!

Answer 10

It is like any place on earth. Use common sense. It is safe, but there are some places you just should stay away from. If you stay in the downtown area you should be fine. If you want to adventure out, like anywhere try not to be alone and try to just ask people where the places to go are and the safest/quickest way to go. Hotel desk people are good help.

Also...since you may not be familiar with cities...don't make any eye contact with beggars...just ignore them.