I visited Chicago twice and felt very safe the entire time. I stayed in the downtown area and I had a great time. I just applied the usual safety tips of anywhere I travel to and stayed with my group / my husband the entire time. Just be alert as you would in any big city! Chicago is a beautiful city with amazing people, sights, and food.
Not anymore ! Not since we are getting this progressive easy on crime mayor Johnson who will be starting in few months . He did not condone the teen riot that happened last weekend and he didn't say anything to victims of that riot. Next week they are planning another riot. As the couple visiting Chicago was getting beat and robbed up by a group of 100 black teenagers the police were just walking by and driving by and did nothing to stop them. Stay away from Chicago if you care about yourself and your safety. It's doomed
100% agree with this. My partner and I experienced the same level of safety in all major touristy areas (the Loop, north side, Oak Park, and Hyde Park) anytime before midnight-ish. We took all the general precautions as well but otherwise we felt secure walking for miles.
I have lived in Chicago longer than Andy is old and it is not as safe as it used to be you always have to be aware of trouble wherever you go but I still love Chicago ❤
Been using this channel for getting more comfortable around Chicago. I travel into the city from out of state for work. I come from a smaller town and learning how to interact and move through the city below the radar has been key to making each trip less stressful.
Just got back from Chicago. One safety tip is to take the (#6/10) bus from downtown to the very popular Science Museum even though it's tempting to take the Red Line down to the local neighborhoods & commute from there. The bus is an EZ trip which drops you off literally right in front of the museum and the shoreline... and it's a much safer option. FYI: I also took the walking tour with Bruce in Lincoln Park and it was terrific. I had no idea of the (sordid) history that took place right across from Lincoln Hall where I went to see a concert while there!
So many of the areas you describe as so safe? Where were the 75 people shot during a recent weekend with 13 dead? And the hundreds of teenagers stomping cars with police powerless to act against them? Seems to be a problem...
@@kfischekhe stated in the video that the majority of violent crimes happen in residential areas that are miles away from the downtown scene. I agree that most of the crime occurs in the neighborhoods that have gang problems. The incident with out of control teens was a weird event that was like a flash mob. I've lived here for 15 years and always felt safe especially if you use common sense (be aware after dark etc - just like anywhere in the world)
Just went to a vintage fest in Pilsen. The DJ was amazing and everyone was so friendly, the clothes was amazing, although some of it expensive af. There was an amazing vibe!. I just wish I knew about it sooner.
Should’ve went to the Southside. There’s a really famous Gardens complex called Parkway on 64th & King Drive, and another large park called West Garfield Park near Madison & Pulaski
So is the area where they filmed the dark knight scenes safe ? I really wanna visit that area. Thank you for the vid( i thought i saw some of the areas in this vid, but could be wrong . Thanks again
Go. Don’t be afraid. You can confidently walk around downtown and the other neighborhoods he mentioned. Enjoy one of the most beautiful major cities in the U.S. Like any big city, there is crime. And like any big city, that crime happens in specific neighborhoods that are easy to avoid.
Yupp some people call that area "the loop" because the trains loop around. Its safe around all the beautiful drawbridges. The only unsafe areas in Chicago are the south side and west side and they're miles away from the downtown area.
@@toursbyfootchicagothis is the only video I could locate on your channel specifically designated to safety and I didn’t hear specific tips on “blending in” - are you able to provide a link to the video you were referencing above?
I think crime got worse after the pandemic, but so it did everywhere else. My rule of thumb is to go out in a group of 3 or more, and never carry around an expensive item/ purse, never wear earbuds. Otherwise, I think there is some oversaturation of crime reports in the news. I.e., if you’re in a densely populated area, you’ll see a higher crime rate.
I'm planning to go to Chicago in Sept for "All Out" which will have about 12,000 people at the United Center. How screwed will I be at night if I stay by Wicker Park and surrounding areas in terms of safety when I go back from the pink to blue line?
Wicker Park is an expensive and safe area. However, the blue line does get a bit seedy late at night. Getting from UC to wicker park shouldn’t be too expensive with rideshare.
may be an obvious question but.... how to take the share ride? and... I will be going to an event on Allstate Arena and it will end late at night, what would you recomend to safely going back home?
Yes you are still in the downtown area, though it’s less populated at night. Following the tips here you should have no trouble. We have a video guide for Willis Tower, I hope you get to visit that attraction!
Hello, andy. I am going to chicago this year and I am looking for a place to stay in forest park, because it is close to university of Loyola campus where I doing an internship. Is that a good neighborhood to stay ? Is there a better place to stay near this area ?
Hello, Felipe! Thanks for saying hi. Yes, Forest Park is a fine place to stay. I would recommend that you stay within walking distance (5-10 minutes) of the CTA Blue Line Forest Park station if you can. Explore Oak Park to the west if you'd like another excellent living area, or consider finding a place anywhere near a CTA Blue Line stop, even one closer to the Chicago Downtown. It all depends where you'll be spending most of your time. CTA Blue Line makes it easy and fast to get back and forth. Hope that helps. -Andy
Can you give examples in how to actually LOOK like you belong? I’m sure hubby and i and 2 boys will be looking around as we have never been there an will probably look lost! lol
When we say look like you belong, it’s more of an awareness than anything else. Don’t stop in the middle of sidewalks or crosswalks when gazing at tall buildings, for example. Be mindful and aware and you’ll have a great time!! As Fran Lebowitz says, “Pretend it’s a city!”
I would say plan ahead. Don't look lost as you walk from point A to B. You can stop and take pictures and all that but then look like you know where you're going right after. Even though there's tons of lost tourists in the city so idk why this is a big deal haha. Maybe on the trains.
yeah plz be careful. Don't go there by yourself specially if you are a woman. There are many crazy people on the trains and avoid turning into a wrong street. The environment and people change from one street to another
With common sense and following the tips in this video, I think anyone will find that downtown Chicago is a beautifully clean, safe, and walkable city. -Andy
I’m from Brazil and I’m now in Chicago for the Marathon. I agree with you Gaby, there’s a lot of crazy people on the trains, I had to change the trains a lot of times because i was not confortable. Very sad. Despite that, the city is really amazing. 😊😊
Thank you. My company wants me to go there for work a few days and I straight up said “no, I don’t feel comfortable alone in that violent city” lol. I’m a 100lbs 4’9” woman….yeah no thank you. I’ll quit first lol
@@lunmendes yea thats something the people of Chicago have been complaining about for a while now. It never used to be like this and they've tried different methods like having cops on trains and stuff. The cops on trains usually don't do shit or are on there phones in 1 cart. I mean idk wtf else they could do.
Well then you can’t say that ANY large city is safe. Even Nashville, TN (which I wouldn’t have expected) has already that they recommend tourists avoid. Hell, even the city I’m currently living in has areas that even LOCALS avoid 😂
@@Jessical0716 yeah it's funny seeing people who have never left the back woods trying to explain to people how "the big cities" are dangerous because [proceeds to name regular things about cities that people who live in them and travel to them often have the skills to navigate safely] as if everyone traveling is as travel/city/safety illiterate and inexperienced as they are.
@@fundifferent1Yes! Perfect response. It’s obvious that many people who make statements like this have never lived in a big city and don’t know how reality works. P.S., if you live in a coastal community, don’t walk off a pier in the middle of the night. If you live in the mountains, don’t speed through the switchbacks and drive off the side of a cliff. If you live in a city, don’t visit the few neighborhoods where nearly all the crime happens. 🙄
I never used to think twice about jumping on the L and going to downtown Chicago -- mostly on the Magnificent Mile and the surrounding areas. Ever since the pandemic there's been increased crime: violence, carjackings, smash n grabs of stores (mostly jeweler stores) in that area. I don't think this guy is paying attention to the local news, as most Chicagoans will attest to, as crime is the top issue in this year's Chicago mayor's race (2023).
Obviously he will hyper the city bcz he is looking for customers. Chicago is a hell. Violence now moving from South side to the city. Be smart y’all. So many other better places to visit
@@AJ.911 you won't. This guy is just having a fear boner. The city is safe and the pockets of violence are miles away from the downtown area. The only thing I would advise is to avoid the red line lol. Its relatively safe just ehh.. lol
@@AJ.911 north is a little more expensive and crowded. Loop is decent. South of loop is nice until you pass 35th street. Look into the West Loop, South Loop those area are growing and developing nicely. They have like 60 new residental buildings planned with commercial stores at the bottom. You'll have busses and trains you can walk to and maybe a small grocery store nearby. Bigger stores like Target, Jewel, Home Depot are a good 10 min drive away. Thats all I got lol. Good luck tho our city is beautiful and has lots to offer! :D
I'm sorry, ...my house is a 2010-- Wicker Park/ Humboldt Park [North Ave and Western Ave] Humboldt Park-- HUGE park, sailing/ boat's [North Ave and Division Ave ] Puerto Rico flag Division Ave-- California Ave, Campbell Ave(Western Ave)....North Ave and Damen Ave AnD Milwaukee Ave -- HUGE great foods, shop's (hotels!)...
@@shawnkelley3695 you mean the hotels that are occupied by illegal immigrants and all the parked cars that were destroyed by 400 teenagers who took train from south side few days ago? Oh how great ! NOT. Chicago is a dump and our new Progressive mayor , whois refusing to fight, the crime will soon finish destroying it. Go ahead and visit the Chicago , just don't expect police to be there for you if you or your property are being attacked by the thugs or criminals or both . Good food is only good if you can be safe while eating it !
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I visited Chicago twice and felt very safe the entire time. I stayed in the downtown area and I had a great time. I just applied the usual safety tips of anywhere I travel to and stayed with my group / my husband the entire time. Just be alert as you would in any big city!
Chicago is a beautiful city with amazing people, sights, and food.
Not anymore ! Not since we are getting this progressive easy on crime mayor Johnson who will be starting in few months . He did not condone the teen riot that happened last weekend and he didn't say anything to victims of that riot. Next week they are planning another riot. As the couple visiting Chicago was getting beat and robbed up by a group of 100 black teenagers the police were just walking by and driving by and did nothing to stop them. Stay away from Chicago if you care about yourself and your safety. It's doomed
100% agree with this. My partner and I experienced the same level of safety in all major touristy areas (the Loop, north side, Oak Park, and Hyde Park) anytime before midnight-ish. We took all the general precautions as well but otherwise we felt secure walking for miles.
When did you go?
I have lived in Chicago longer than Andy is old and it is not as safe as it used to be you always have to be aware of trouble wherever you go but I still love Chicago ❤
Been using this channel for getting more comfortable around Chicago. I travel into the city from out of state for work. I come from a smaller town and learning how to interact and move through the city below the radar has been key to making each trip less stressful.
Andy could be giving a tour of literally anything and I would show up--- he's so good!
Just came back from Chicago. I only have positive things to say. It was safe. Mag mile, Lakeshore , Northalsted all good for tourists
Very helpful video. I am visiting Chicago with family for the very first time.
Had such a great time taking tours with you when I was there in the spring! There's so much more I want to do, can't wait to be able to come back.
Thank you! So glad we were able to be part of your trip. Multiple visits are definitely required.
I was there at the end of 2019 felt totally safe , much safer than new york
Just got back from Chicago. One safety tip is to take the (#6/10) bus from downtown to the very popular Science Museum even though it's tempting to take the Red Line down to the local neighborhoods & commute from there.
The bus is an EZ trip which drops you off literally right in front of the museum and the shoreline... and it's a much safer option.
FYI: I also took the walking tour with Bruce in Lincoln Park and it was terrific. I had no idea of the (sordid) history that took place right across from Lincoln Hall where I went to see a concert while there!
Thanks for sharing this tip. So glad you enjoyed your tour of Lincoln Park with Bruce!!
I love my city but I hate the potholes and the red line.
So many of the areas you describe as so safe? Where were the 75 people shot during a recent weekend with 13 dead? And the hundreds of teenagers stomping cars with police powerless to act against them? Seems to be a problem...
@@kfischekhe stated in the video that the majority of violent crimes happen in residential areas that are miles away from the downtown scene. I agree that most of the crime occurs in the neighborhoods that have gang problems. The incident with out of control teens was a weird event that was like a flash mob. I've lived here for 15 years and always felt safe especially if you use common sense (be aware after dark etc - just like anywhere in the world)
Hi Andy, I'm Dennis Daniels from Cleveland, Ohio! Thanks for sharing your video about safety in Chicago!
Thank you for this, I just moved here - it's very interesting living in the city
Welcome to Chitown!! It's a great time. I hope you are subscribed so you can keep up with all the fun.
Just went to a vintage fest in Pilsen. The DJ was amazing and everyone was so friendly, the clothes was amazing, although some of it expensive af. There was an amazing vibe!. I just wish I knew about it sooner.
I've been in Chicago before visiting again next week for an event
Really useful, thank you. I'm visiting in October with my 70 year old mother so was a little wary.
Should’ve went to the Southside. There’s a really famous Gardens complex called Parkway on 64th & King Drive, and another large park called West Garfield Park near Madison & Pulaski
Thx for this great video! I can’t wait to visit your beautiful city Im this coming September ❤
Andy, I think Chicago has tons of architecture as well!
Can you make Tips for Safety in O block?
I have been to Downtown and had no issues besides lots of people!
"...where families can come to Wrigley Stadium..."
I suggest you voiceover that part to "Wrigley Field" like the sign says.
reminds me of Detroit in the 70s
04:19 That's Mary Stadium in Watch Dogs xd
awesome! Chicago rules !!!
my favorite Chicago tour guide!
Thank you for this video !!!! I loved it !!!!!
Thank you 🎉
Also avoid empty cars cause of broken acs & heaters
Headed to Bedford Park next month for work . Just wondering how safe the area is and if I should be able to venture out during the evening .
A nice working class community.
Lol @ being the only tourist in Wicker Park. Yes. Minus all of the ones from Michigan, Iowa, and Ohio that live there. Long term tourists.
Oh snap
Have you been on Michigan Avenue lately people are getting jumped n beat by groups of punks what happened to the magnificent mile it used to be safe
So is the area where they filmed the dark knight scenes safe ? I really wanna visit that area. Thank you for the vid( i thought i saw some of the areas in this vid, but could be wrong . Thanks again
It’s Wrigley Field not Wrigley Stadium
Thanks
Is Lansing, IL safe to visit?
hate that this amazing city is plagued by crime. i want to go so bad and see the city and try all the food
Go. Don’t be afraid. You can confidently walk around downtown and the other neighborhoods he mentioned. Enjoy one of the most beautiful major cities in the U.S.
Like any big city, there is crime. And like any big city, that crime happens in specific neighborhoods that are easy to avoid.
Is the downtown part of Chicago where like all this drawbridges is it safe to visit?
Yupp some people call that area "the loop" because the trains loop around. Its safe around all the beautiful drawbridges. The only unsafe areas in Chicago are the south side and west side and they're miles away from the downtown area.
@@whatoh3407 ok thanks
How DO you blend in? What to wear....?
Hi Judi! I have a video on this channel all about Safety that should cover what you need. Check it out!
@@toursbyfootchicagothis is the only video I could locate on your channel specifically designated to safety and I didn’t hear specific tips on “blending in” - are you able to provide a link to the video you were referencing above?
Is there a way to get in touch with you
I think crime got worse after the pandemic, but so it did everywhere else. My rule of thumb is to go out in a group of 3 or more, and never carry around an expensive item/ purse, never wear earbuds. Otherwise, I think there is some oversaturation of crime reports in the news. I.e., if you’re in a densely populated area, you’ll see a higher crime rate.
I'm planning to go to Chicago in Sept for "All Out" which will have about 12,000 people at the United Center.
How screwed will I be at night if I stay by Wicker Park and surrounding areas in terms of safety when I go back from the pink to blue line?
Wicker Park is an expensive and safe area. However, the blue line does get a bit seedy late at night. Getting from UC to wicker park shouldn’t be too expensive with rideshare.
may be an obvious question but.... how to take the share ride? and... I will be going to an event on Allstate Arena and it will end late at night, what would you recomend to safely going back home?
Wait around looking for an uber. Or follow the crowd to the train thats a block away.
Do you think it is safe to go rockford to the bean at millennium park?
Yes, you could drive the 90 minutes there, no problem.
Andy, how safely going downtown?
Can we swim in June at the beach????
Sure but its probably freezing lol
I don’t think anyone’s afraid it’s like prohibition era Chicago…the city is plagued by other types of gangs- not all areas of course.
Is Lasalle st a safe place to stay near the Willis building
Yes you are still in the downtown area, though it’s less populated at night. Following the tips here you should have no trouble. We have a video guide for Willis Tower, I hope you get to visit that attraction!
If you call it the Sears Tower, you'll sound more local.
Bring a vest.
just stay inside the Loop and you'll be fine.
Hello, andy. I am going to chicago this year and I am looking for a place to stay in forest park, because it is close to university of Loyola campus where I doing an internship. Is that a good neighborhood to stay ? Is there a better place to stay near this area ?
Hello, Felipe! Thanks for saying hi. Yes, Forest Park is a fine place to stay. I would recommend that you stay within walking distance (5-10 minutes) of the CTA Blue Line Forest Park station if you can. Explore Oak Park to the west if you'd like another excellent living area, or consider finding a place anywhere near a CTA Blue Line stop, even one closer to the Chicago Downtown. It all depends where you'll be spending most of your time. CTA Blue Line makes it easy and fast to get back and forth. Hope that helps. -Andy
Thank you for the tips, Andy. It helps a lot.
No we know it is unsafe like Philadelphia it is not a 1920s thing.
Can you give examples in how to actually LOOK like you belong? I’m sure hubby and i and 2 boys will be looking around as we have never been there an will probably look lost! lol
When we say look like you belong, it’s more of an awareness than anything else. Don’t stop in the middle of sidewalks or crosswalks when gazing at tall buildings, for example. Be mindful and aware and you’ll have a great time!! As Fran Lebowitz says, “Pretend it’s a city!”
I would say plan ahead. Don't look lost as you walk from point A to B. You can stop and take pictures and all that but then look like you know where you're going right after. Even though there's tons of lost tourists in the city so idk why this is a big deal haha. Maybe on the trains.
yeah plz be careful. Don't go there by yourself specially if you are a woman. There are many crazy people on the trains and avoid turning into a wrong street. The environment and people change from one street to another
With common sense and following the tips in this video, I think anyone will find that downtown Chicago is a beautifully clean, safe, and walkable city. -Andy
I’m from Brazil and I’m now in Chicago for the Marathon. I agree with you Gaby, there’s a lot of crazy people on the trains, I had to change the trains a lot of times because i was not confortable. Very sad. Despite that, the city is really amazing. 😊😊
Thank you. My company wants me to go there for work a few days and I straight up said “no, I don’t feel comfortable alone in that violent city” lol. I’m a 100lbs 4’9” woman….yeah no thank you. I’ll quit first lol
@@dco8886 from which city?
@@lunmendes yea thats something the people of Chicago have been complaining about for a while now. It never used to be like this and they've tried different methods like having cops on trains and stuff. The cops on trains usually don't do shit or are on there phones in 1 cart. I mean idk wtf else they could do.
Is Chicago safer than Dallas or is Dallas safer than Chicago???
You can have Chicago and you’re hot dogs I ain’t ever going there
Chicago is safe but, one bad apple can ruin the entire bunch.
Don't say Chicago is safe if you have to then list off several 'exceptions' and have practically safe-zones.
Well then you can’t say that ANY large city is safe. Even Nashville, TN (which I wouldn’t have expected) has already that they recommend tourists avoid. Hell, even the city I’m currently living in has areas that even LOCALS avoid 😂
@@Jessical0716 yeah it's funny seeing people who have never left the back woods trying to explain to people how "the big cities" are dangerous because [proceeds to name regular things about cities that people who live in them and travel to them often have the skills to navigate safely] as if everyone traveling is as travel/city/safety illiterate and inexperienced as they are.
@@fundifferent1Yes! Perfect response. It’s obvious that many people who make statements like this have never lived in a big city and don’t know how reality works. P.S., if you live in a coastal community, don’t walk off a pier in the middle of the night. If you live in the mountains, don’t speed through the switchbacks and drive off the side of a cliff. If you live in a city, don’t visit the few neighborhoods where nearly all the crime happens. 🙄
Chicago is hell on hearth!
Have you been to Birmingham Alabama? Or Florida? The water is literally heating up in Florida.
I do what I do best, I take scores. You do what you do best, try to stop guys like me.
@@wolfen337 lol what a loser
I never used to think twice about jumping on the L and going to downtown Chicago -- mostly on the Magnificent Mile and the surrounding areas. Ever since the pandemic there's been increased crime: violence, carjackings, smash n grabs of stores (mostly jeweler stores) in that area. I don't think this guy is paying attention to the local news, as most Chicagoans will attest to, as crime is the top issue in this year's Chicago mayor's race (2023).
yet somehow literal millions of people ride the L and go all around downtown every single day and have no problem. Your math ain't mathing....
safe thing to do is not go
Get off your couch and quit watching Fox News
@@DPF61008OConnor spent a week in chicago,i loved it,alot to see and do.i loved flocko taco.things change
Obviously he will hyper the city bcz he is looking for customers. Chicago is a hell. Violence now moving from South side to the city. Be smart y’all. So many other better places to visit
Like what cities? Am looking for a walkable city with fine public transportation but can't find one
@@AJ.911 you won't. This guy is just having a fear boner. The city is safe and the pockets of violence are miles away from the downtown area. The only thing I would advise is to avoid the red line lol. Its relatively safe just ehh.. lol
@@whatoh3407 avoiding red line, do u recommend north or south?or inside loops? I mean safe areas to live
@@AJ.911 north is a little more expensive and crowded. Loop is decent. South of loop is nice until you pass 35th street.
Look into the West Loop, South Loop those area are growing and developing nicely. They have like 60 new residental buildings planned with commercial stores at the bottom. You'll have busses and trains you can walk to and maybe a small grocery store nearby. Bigger stores like Target, Jewel, Home Depot are a good 10 min drive away. Thats all I got lol. Good luck tho our city is beautiful and has lots to offer! :D
"The south side" is "the city". The fact that you distinguished the 2 like that points to the actual problem.
No.
Here is the best and one and only tip for safety in Chicago : Do not visit Chicago under any circumstances!
Tip #2
Don't visit Chicago.
@@rnettles6241 Yes!❤️ And tip #3 No Chicago !
I'm sorry, ...my house is a 2010-- Wicker Park/ Humboldt Park [North Ave and Western Ave] Humboldt Park-- HUGE park, sailing/ boat's [North Ave and Division Ave ] Puerto Rico flag Division Ave-- California Ave, Campbell Ave(Western Ave)....North Ave and Damen Ave AnD Milwaukee Ave -- HUGE great foods, shop's (hotels!)...
*_We are the initiated. Aren't we, Bruce?_*
@@shawnkelley3695 you mean the hotels that are occupied by illegal immigrants and all the parked cars that were destroyed by 400 teenagers who took train from south side few days ago? Oh how great ! NOT. Chicago is a dump and our new Progressive mayor , whois refusing to fight, the crime will soon finish destroying it. Go ahead and visit the Chicago , just don't expect police to be there for you if you or your property are being attacked by the thugs or criminals or both . Good food is only good if you can be safe while eating it !
Quick answer - NO