How Dangerous of an Area Is Chicago (Loop, Lincoln)?

Published January 4, 2014

Question by Ty Zang: How dangerous of an area is Chicago (loop, lincoln)?
I know that crime is up in chicago and I am heading there this weekend. I hear the west and south side of the city is bad. We are going to be near Howard L station (red line) and visiting the loop, navy pier, etc.. we are planning on staying around those areas, maybe see lincoln park, maybe see the beach.

Are these areas pretty safe after dark? the hotel is near Howard red line. I seen AOL said that that place is sketchy at night. True?

Best answer:

Answer by Richard
The Loop, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park, most beaches, and most areas that tourists visit are usually safe.

Please be aware that there have recently been a few (not many) attacks by teens on tourists in the downtown area. Violent attacks downtown are not typical for Chicago.

WARNING

Be aware that the area near the Howard Street L station in the far northeast side of the city is NOT safe, and has not been safe since the 1960s. Much of the EAST Rogers Park area has gangs, drugs, etc.

Here are a few cautions, and do not take me lightly about them:

1. COMPLETELY IGNORE panhandlers, beggars, and the like. Do not look at them, do not speak to them, and pretend they do not exist.
2. Do not carry any jewelry, electronic gimmicks, iPhones, or other conspicuous things that will attract gangstas.
3. Do not act like a tourist. Even if you are lost, pretend like you know where you are, or you will be an easy mark.
4. Trust nobody.

Add your own answer in the comments!

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