Is Chicago Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Solo travel

Chicago was an amazing city to visit! I loved walking around downtown and along the lakefront – the views are beautiful, especially near Millennium Park and the famous Bean. The architecture is incredible and there are so many great places to eat and explore. I also felt comfortable traveling around the main tourist areas, especially during the day. It’s a vibrant city with a lot of culture, food, and things to see. Definitely a place worth visiting!

Family travel

Gorgeous, large city with amazing food and cultures. I have been to Chicago twice - once during the winter (absolutely gorgeous white Christmas experience) and the other time during the summer (beautiful weather and atmosphere).

Solo travel

Felt super safe! Great city! Loved the Bean, Navy Pier and getting to experience the city from a locals perspective. I cannot wait until I get to come back! Thank you so much for having me and welcoming me to your country/city!!!!

Solo travel

Nice city! Lou Malnati’s deep dish pizza is 10 times better than Giordano’s. Most of the times it’s cheaper to by souvenir (or anything else) at target or CVS. River cruise is a must and online you can find better deals. Once you are done with the city center, west town and especially Milwaukee avenue is nice with a lot of second hand shops and cool cafes: a neighborhood with hippy vibes.

Solo travel

I loved staying in Chicago and although all the talk you hear about how dangerous it is compared to other cities I felt super safe. I loved the architecture boat tour and all the different things Chicago had to offer. Also loved that Chicago is super walkable!

Solo travel

I was so surprised about Chicago. I actually felt way safer than in my hometown. The locals were so nice and there were so many green spots downtown. The only thing is that food is super expensive there.

Solo travel

I felt great in Chicago between the years. Perfect city to walk around, go up the towers and enjoy the views. And the Chinatown in Chicago was great. Especially the community center. I loved to go there and relax!

Group travel

Did a quick weekend trip to Chicago with the girls for a bachelorette party. We had dinner at the Dearborn and Wakamono, both 5/5. We tried out The DISCO since it has 4 levels but it was pretty small and crowded so we ended up at Three Dots and A Dash and the vibe there was much more chill but fun! We mostly traveled by Uber but when we did walk around we felt safe.

Group travel

I felt very safe in Chicago, it is a wonderful city, although many people say it is a dangerous city, I felt safe. In Chicago, you must try their famous pizza, visit the beach and Skydeck. I can say that is the most beautiful city.

Solo travel

It has a lot of things to do even when you explore the city alone. I did not use public transport as it was fun and easy to walk around. There are many impressive theaters, bars etc. that are worth visiting especially in the night hours. A bit expensive but it was worth it.

You are okay here but be mindful! I especially recommend Lincoln Park for cute stuff and a very safe neighborhood. If you need to be out and about later at night please take an Uber. Far less scams than I've seen in other big cities. Being by the lake around Diversey and Fullerton is safe and so wonderful.

Combined I’ve spent about a month in Chicago. From as south as Hyde Park to as North as Montrose and as West as Pilsen/Little Village. I’ve only been harassed twice and both situations didn’t make me feel unsafe, just uncomfortable. Once at the members bar in the Art Institute and another time on the bus line 3 heading North from Bronzeville. Overall Chicago is a great city filled with really kind people (it’s true what they say about the Midwest). It’s by far my favorite city in the United...

Chicago is generally safe but you should stay aware of your surroundings. Crime can happen anywhere especially in a big city. There is a good amount of police presence and I have no problem walking around the city by myself. Sometimes there are people with mental health issues or petty crime so just stay aware. You can walk around during the day, party at night, but stay in the Northside. Anywhere from the Loop (including South and West loop) to Lakeview is generally fine. Avoid going further...

I’ve seen the city getting less and less safe as an increase of I.C.E. agents are coming into town. If you are a person of color I recommend practicing extreme caution around law enforcement or in places with large crowds.

I absolutely am in Love with Chicago, I lived alone here for 3 years before moving in with my partner and never felt unsafe. It’s a big city, so you need to stay alert, but it’s so clean, beautiful and people are so nice. I walk and take public transportation alone everywhere, and have amazing recommendations for anyone visiting!

Chicago is a beautiful city but just like anywhere be aware of your surroundings. Downtown can be a great area especially Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and Grant Park. However lately there have been some protests taking place. Just be mindful.