20 Areas to Avoid in Chicago, Illinois [SAFETY GUIDE]

The Windy City of Chicago is a vibrating City that pulses with life around the shore of Lake Michigan. As a city steeped in rich history as well as lively culture, it’s a place that captures the hearts of over 2.7 million residents and countless visitors annually. Like every major city, it is essential in order to recognize which neighborhoods to embrace and which areas to avoid in Chicago for security reasons or even to avoid everyday tourist attractions.

Your compass: This guide is the result of considerable research and a comprehensive understanding of the city’s dynamics. It seeks to help you in getting around the numerous neighborhoods of the city, enhancing your experience by steering you clear of potential safety hazards and expensive tourist attractions. What exactly are the areas to avoid in Chicago to guarantee a safe, pleasurable, and authentic experience while visiting the city?

See Also: Things to do in Chicago

1. West Garfield Park

West Garfield Park, a neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side, is an area of contrasts. The contrast of its rich heritage as well as strong community spirit with the challenges it faces causes it to be among the highest crime neighborhoods in Chicago. The region’s potential is evidenced in the Garfield Park Conservatory, a lush oasis in the neighborhood center. Those visiting the conservatory need to pay attention to their surroundings – especially at sunset. Being informed about the neighborhood’s present situation is essential when planning a visit. Regardless of the hurdles, the community’s spirit remains resilient, with a hopeful eye on a safer future.

2. East Garfield Park

East Garfield Park, comparable to its western counterpart, is a neighborhood noted due to its scenic boulevards along with the gorgeous Garfield Park Conservatory. Nevertheless, it’s also among the Chicago neighborhoods to steer clear of due to high unemployment in addition to poverty rates, which contribute to its crime rates. The community’s spirit is unwavering, with residents in addition to local organizations working relentlessly to lead to positive change. East Garfield Park illustrates the resilience as well as the power of Chicago despite the difficulties.

3. Englewood

Englewood, hidden away on Chicago’s South Side, is a location that’s endured numerous storms. Despite being a hub for lively community groups and historic sites, it’s seen as one of the most dangerous areas in the Windy City due to high crime rates along with one to avoid in Chicago. However, Englewood has a resilient and tough community with residents pursuing positive change. The neighborhood’s historical sites along with lively community organizations are a testimony to its rich cultural history and the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants.

4. Riverdale

Among the southernmost communities in Chicago is Riverdale, which often brings together residential and industrial areas. No matter the existence of natural beauty, like the Beaubien Woods Forest Preserve, Riverdale is among the red-flag places in Chicago because of crime and financial difficulty. Security might be an issue, particularly at nighttime. Nevertheless, the community’s resilience is apparent in its continual work for improvement. Regardless of the difficulties, Riverdale’s natural splendor, including the Beaubien Woods Forest Preserve, is a testimony to the neighborhood’s potential.

5. South Shore

The neighborhood of South Shore, situated on the South Side around the lakefront, is one of the contrasts. Cultural attractions including the South Shore Cultural Center are located here, and the surrounding area provides sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Nevertheless, it’s also among the troublesome places in Chicago because of crime as well as safety problems. Though the neighborhood is filled with history in addition to culture, existing safety worries make it a less appealing part of Chicago. Regardless of these obstacles, South Shore remains a vibrant component of the cultural scene in Chicago. Reminders of the potential of the neighborhood and the spirit of its inhabitants are the South Shore Cultural Center and amazing views of Lake Michigan.

6. North Lawndale

North Lawndale, a Chicago West Side neighborhood, is on a rollercoaster. Initially a vibrant hub in the early twentieth century, it’s since dealt with economic decline and it is presently considered one of the high-risk streets in Chicago. No matter these difficulties, North Lawndale is a testimony to community resilience, with several organizations striving to enhance the quality of life for residents. The neighborhood’s gorgeous greystones and the historic Sears, Roebuck, and Co. complex play a role in its distinct appeal. Prior to preparing a trip, guests are urged to stay updated with the local situation. North Lawndale’s resilience in addition to its rich heritage makes sure it’s a distinct part of Chicago’s landscape.

7. Chatham

Chatham, tucked away on the South Side of Chicago, is a primarily residential area famous due to its well-kept bungalows. Nevertheless, it’s witnessed an uptick in crime, making it among the Chicago neighborhoods to steer clear of. Regardless of these difficulties, Chatham’s strong community spirit and growing businesses stand as a beacon of hope. The neighborhood’s contribution to the Chicago Blues scene contributes to its cultural importance. Guests are advised to keep updated on the newest safety information when considering their visit. Chatham’s community spirit, and stunning bungalows, in addition to plentiful cultural contributions, ensure it’s a distinctive part of Chicago’s cultural fabric.

8. Auburn Gresham

Auburn Gresham, situated on Chicago’s South Side, is an area that’s endured substantial challenges. Despite having active community organizations and historic sites, it is considered one of the most crime-prone areas in the City of Big Shoulders. Nevertheless, the neighborhood is renowned for its annual St. Sabine’s End-of-School Peace Rally and March, which is a symbol of the community’s dedication to Peace and unity. Prior to preparing a trip, guests are urged to stay updated with the local situation. Auburn Gresham’s resilience in addition to its commitment to promoting peace enables it to become a distinctive part of Chicago’s landscape.

9. Fuller Park

Fuller Park, among Chicago’s smallest community areas on the South Side, is dealing with high crime rates in addition to financial hardship, making it among the red-flag places in Chicago. Even with its size, the community is home to a nearby park, offering green space for residents. Community organizations in the region are working tirelessly to better conditions and result in positive change. Guests are advised to keep updated on the newest safety information when considering their visit. Even with its difficulties, Fuller Park’s commitment to improvement and the existence of the neighborhood park enables it to become a unique part of Chicago’s landscape.

10. Grand Crossing

Grand Crossing, a notable area on the South Side of the city, is among many to avoid in Chicago due to its crime as well as protection problems. Regardless of these difficulties, the area features several cultural landmarks and is famous for its strong community spirit. As always, it’s crucial that you keep informed about the newest safety info when considering your visit to nearly any part of Chicago. Grand Crossing’s rich heritage, and cultural attractions, together with strong community spirit make certain it’s a distinctive part of Chicago’s cultural landscape.

11. Navy Pier

Navy Pier, a jewel along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, is a leading tourist attraction in Chicago. It attracts visitors with its famous Ferris wheel, great food court, and a broad range of entertainment options. Nevertheless, the pier oftentimes teems with people, as well as the costs can rapidly build up, particularly for families. Although the pier provides sweeping views of the city as well as the lake, the swell of tourists can cause high prices and long lines. Other areas of Chicago are worth exploring in case you wish to feel the real Chicago experience without the typical tourist attractions. These areas provide a more genuine taste of local life, away from the tourist crowds in Chicago.

12. The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile, a lively stretch of Michigan Avenue situated in downtown Chicago, is recognized because of its luxury shopping and upscale dining. It’s a must for first-time visitors but can be frustrating because of the crowds and high prices. The area is usually full of tourists and the shopping centres and restaurants may be costly. In case you’re seeking a far more relaxed and authentic Chicago experience, there are numerous other neighborhoods and local shops which provide specific products and cuisine at more affordable prices. Exploring these less famous landmarks in Chicago is able to offer a far more intimate as well as less touristy experience.

13. Skydeck Chicago

The 103rd floor of Skydeck Chicago, situated in the iconic Willis Tower, provides breathtaking city views. Nevertheless, it’s normally packed with tourists, and the prices of tickets might be steep. Even though the view from the Skydeck is undoubtedly remarkable, the lengthy lines in addition to the high costs might detract from the experience. In case you’re searching for alternate sights in Chicago which provide spectacular views without the hefty price tag as well as crowds, think about other areas in the city. For example, the Signature Lounge in the John Hancock Center provides equally breathtaking views of Chicago, enabling you to escape the tourist rush in Chicago.

14. Hard Rock Cafe

Visitors love the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Chicago. It can be a worthwhile destination due to its rockin’ roll history along with classic American fare. Nevertheless, it’s often packed, in addition to the prices might be high when compared with other restaurants in the city. Chicago is home to numerous other restaurants and eateries that provide a selection of cuisines at various price points if you’re seeking a far more exclusive and neighborhood dining experience. Local hangouts in Chicago offer a far more authentic perspective of the culinary scene in the city, away from the pulsating touristic areas.

15. Rainforest Cafe

Families love the Rainforest Cafe in downtown Chicago. Even though the jungle-themed decor and animatronic animals might be amusing for children, the food is usually regarded as overpriced because of its quality. Furthermore, the restaurant can be very raucous and packed, particularly during peak times. There are many other family-friendly Chicago restaurants to explore if you’re searching for a bargain and a far more tranquil setting while eating out. These establishments offer a far more relaxed dining experience, enabling you to learn the real Chicago beyond the regular tourist spots.

16. The Bean (Cloud Gate)

Cloud Gate, affectionately known as “The Bean,” is a staple of Chicago’s architectural landscape. This special Anish Kapoor sculpture situated in Millennium Park is a must-see due to its mirror-like surface which mirrors a distorted picture of the city skyline. Nevertheless, it’s usually teeming with tourists, which makes it challenging to capture a crowd-free photo. Even though it’s well well worth a trip for first-time visitors, those seeking a far more tranquil and authentic Chicago experience might wish to examine various other much less packed public art installations and parks throughout the city. Chicago provides a more intimate experience in these offbeat attractions, far out of the hectic tourist areas.

17. The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago in Grant Park is a world-class Art museum. It features a remarkable collection of 5,000 years of art form. Nonetheless, with its hefty admission fee and frequently packed galleries, it might not provide the very best value for those visitors. Even though the museum’s collection is undoubtedly remarkable, numerous other cultural institutions in Chicago offer equally enriching experiences at a reduced price or even for free. These lesser-known Chicago landmarks can provide a more personal and less touristy experience.

18. The Field Museum

The Field Museum, among the biggest natural history museums globally, is situated on Chicago’s Museum Campus. It provides a variety of exhibits, from dinosaur fossils to ancient artifacts. Nevertheless, the museum’s high admission fee and sometimes packed exhibits might not offer the best experience for those visitors. Although the Field Museum is a must-see for history and science enthusiasts, there are other museums as well as attractions in Chicago that provide educational experiences at a reduced price. These alternative sights in Chicago present a far more authentic taste of the city’s rich cultural as well as scientific heritage.

19. Giordano’s Pizza

Deep-dish Pizza is a specialty of Chicago pizzeria Giordano’s Pizza. Although the pizza is definitely tasty, the restaurant can be packed as well as the wait could be lengthy. The costs may be high compared with other nearby pizzerias also. Chicago has numerous local pizzerias that provide authentic and less tourist pizza choices at a reasonable price. Local Chicago hangouts offer a far more authentic glimpse of the culinary scene in the city, far from the pulsating tourist destinations.

20. Shedd Aquarium

The family-friendly Shedd Aquarium on the Museum Campus of Chicago is a well-known destination. It contains a huge assortment of marine life from various areas of the globe. The high admission fee and often packed exhibits might not offer the most pleasurable experience for all visitors. The aquarium is a must for marine life devotees, but other attractions in Chicago provide educational and entertaining happenings for a lower cost. When considering your itinerary in Chicago, it’s usually best to conduct research and think about alternate options. These lesser-known Chicago attractions are authentic and less crowded.

Conclusion

Chicago is a lively community that is diverse. Where history, tradition, and individuals combine to form a really distinct tapestry. Like every major city, Chicago has some aspects to avoid. Understanding exactly where not to go is as essential as knowing where you can go – whether for safety or even to avoid the typical tourist traps.

The objective of this guidebook is to let you navigate the city comfortably and confidently. The Windy City is a destination that could make your trip more pleasurable, authentic, and safe – a tool to improve your experience. Therefore, whether you’re a first-time visitor or maybe an experienced traveler, remember to tread lightly in some areas and embrace the city’s hidden gems. Chicago is a place created to be experienced, valued as well as liked. Safe travels!