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.

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!