Things To Consider Before Taking A Walk In Chicago At Night

A Guide On What Makes A City A Safe Place To Walk At Night

One of the best cities in the United States of America is Chicago. The city is known for its deep-dish pizza, stunning Lake Michigan, and the Willis Tower, the biggest monument in the world. However, a lot of people ask if it's safe to go about Chicago after dark. 

In actuality, it depends on the setting and level of preparedness. Like any big city, Chicago has its share of nice spots and places to be extra cautious. While some neighborhoods are completely unsafe, others are filled with tourists and people going about even at night. After talking about the fundamentals of nighttime walking in Chicago, let's examine the threats and safety details.

Areas You Need To Be More Careful

Like any big city, there are some parts of Chicago that are safer than others and some parts of the city that may be less safe, particularly at night.

Generally, some areas of the South and West Sides are notorious for high crime rates. This doesn’t mean that the whole area is unsafe, but some places are definitely more dangerous to visit at night. If you are not well acquainted with a certain area it will be wise to know at least something about the area to be visited.

If you have to go to these areas, then it is safer to use a ride-hailing service rather than walk.

Avoid Walking In Dark And Desolate Places

Streets that are dark and empty are more dangerous because there are no people to assist in case of an incident. Always be on streets with lots of lights and people around.

Walk With Confidence

Appear lost or uncomfortable and people will take advantage of you. Walk with your chest up, and shoulders back, and definitely not like you’re lost!

Avoid Using Your Phone Frequently

It becomes very hard to resist the temptation of using the phone as we walk, but this makes us not to be conscious of our environment. Also, it may attract thieves to take your device for granted.

Avoid Traveling Alone

There’s safety in numbers! The company of at least one friend is better than being alone when walking because the latter might be exposed to certain dangers, especially in unknown territory.

Keep Valuables Hidden

Do not show off expensive watches, phones, or lots of money. The more inconspicuous you can be, the better.

Know When The Public Transport Operates

If you want to travel by bus or train at night, better check the schedule beforehand. Others are less frequent or stop at odd times of the day.

Know Where You’re Going Before You Leave

Be sure to plan your route when you are getting there so that you do not need to pull over and look at maps while in the middle of the street. If you are not sure, just go into a shop or a café to check for directions.

What Do Locals Say About Walking In Chicago At Night?

Some of the people of Chicago will assure you that walking on the streets of the city at night is safe in some places as long as one is careful. Residents of the city understand the areas to visit and those to steer clear of.

If you are in the downtown area, you will find people out late to eat, watch concerts, or just take a late evening walk. But if you stray too far into the unknown territories, it can quickly feel different.

Chicago is like any other big city; if you are prudent, cautious, and sure of the area you are in, you can roam around at night without much fear.