Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic skyline. As a travel blogger with years of experience visiting cities around the world, I can confidently say that Chicago has much to offer. From the stunning architecture of the Loop to the artistic flair of neighborhoods like Pilsen and the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, there’s a lot to explore. However, like any major city, Chicago has areas that can be less safe or simply less desirable for tourists to visit.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the neighborhoods and locations in Chicago that you should be cautious about or avoid entirely. This isn’t to say that these areas are devoid of culture or worth, but rather that they may present challenges to unfamiliar visitors. By being informed about where not to go in Chicago, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable visit to the Windy City.
1. West Garfield Park: High Crime Rates
One of the most notorious neighborhoods in Chicago for high crime rates is West Garfield Park. Located on the city’s West Side, this area has struggled with poverty, gang activity, and violent crime for years. The neighborhood consistently ranks at the top of the list for homicides and shootings in Chicago, and the crime rate here is significantly higher than the national average.
Why you should avoid it:
Safety concerns: Tourists are unlikely to find many attractions here, and the high crime rate makes it a risky area to explore, particularly at night.
Lack of amenities: West Garfield Park doesn’t have the same level of restaurants, museums, or cultural institutions as other parts of the city. While some people may want to experience the more gritty or less-touristed sides of Chicago, this area isn’t ideal for casual visitors who are unfamiliar with the surroundings.
Instead of venturing into West Garfield Park, you might want to spend your time exploring safer West Side neighborhoods like Oak Park, known for its beautiful architecture and association with Frank Lloyd Wright.
2. Englewood: A Neighborhood in Transition
Englewood, located on the South Side of Chicago, is another neighborhood that tourists are often advised to avoid. While Englewood is undergoing some redevelopment efforts, it is still plagued by high levels of violence, particularly gang-related crime. Similar to West Garfield Park, Englewood has one of the highest crime rates in the city, and poverty remains a major issue.
Why you should avoid it:
Crime: The South Side, particularly in areas like Englewood, has been struggling with gang violence and shootings. While much of this violence doesn’t directly involve tourists, it’s still a concern for those unfamiliar with the area.
Lack of tourist attractions: Englewood doesn’t offer much in terms of tourist draws. While the neighborhood’s history and ongoing efforts to revitalize certain areas are notable, there’s little in the way of must-see destinations for most visitors.
If you’re interested in visiting Chicago’s South Side, neighborhoods like Hyde Park are a better alternative. Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park is full of cultural attractions like the Museum of Science and Industry and boasts a much lower crime rate than Englewood.
3. The Back of the Yards: A Cautionary Tale
The Back of the Yards neighborhood, named for its history as the site of the Union Stockyards, is located on the Southwest Side of Chicago. While the area played a pivotal role in the city’s industrial past, it has also been associated with poverty and crime for many years.
Why you should avoid it:
Economic challenges: The Back of the Yards has seen significant economic decline over the past few decades, which has contributed to high crime rates and a lack of resources for residents.
Limited attractions for tourists: Unless you have a specific reason for visiting, like learning about Chicago’s industrial history, there’s little to recommend the Back of the Yards for general tourists. The area doesn’t have the same cultural or dining experiences that other Chicago neighborhoods can offer.
Instead, consider visiting neighborhoods like Pilsen, which also has a strong connection to Chicago’s working-class past but has developed into a vibrant cultural hub, known for its art galleries, murals, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
4. Fuller Park: Avoid at Night
Fuller Park, located in the southern part of Chicago, is one of the smallest and least populated neighborhoods in the city. Unfortunately, it also suffers from high crime rates and limited infrastructure. While it may not be as notorious as some other South Side neighborhoods, Fuller Park is another area that tourists should be wary of, particularly after dark.
Why you should avoid it:
Crime and safety: Although Fuller Park is a small area, it has one of the highest crime rates per capita in Chicago. There are few reasons for tourists to visit, and walking around the area can feel unsafe, especially for those unfamiliar with the neighborhood.
Lack of amenities: Fuller Park doesn’t offer much in terms of attractions, restaurants, or shops, and the high crime rate makes it a poor choice for casual exploration.
If you’re looking for green spaces in Chicago, you’re much better off visiting Grant Park or Lincoln Park, both of which are safer, more vibrant, and centrally located.
See Also: Where Is Wicker Park in Chicago
5. Chicago’s “L” Late at Night
While Chicago’s neighborhoods are an important part of understanding where not to go, it’s equally important to talk about the city’s public transit system, known as the “L” (short for “elevated train”). While the L is generally a reliable and convenient way to get around the city, riding certain lines late at night can be risky.
Why you should avoid it:
Safety concerns: Some L stations, particularly those on the Red and Green Lines, are located in higher-crime areas, and incidents like theft, assault, and harassment have been reported. While daytime rides are typically safe, riding late at night, especially if you’re alone, can feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Unpredictable situations: Late at night, you’re more likely to encounter people under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as well as individuals experiencing homelessness, some of whom may be aggressive. While many riders won’t have issues, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid certain stations if you don’t feel comfortable.
For late-night transportation, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft instead, which provide a more direct and safer way to get back to your hotel or destination.
6. Chicago’s Expressways During Rush Hour
Chicago is notorious for its traffic, and while it’s not necessarily dangerous, getting stuck on the city’s expressways during rush hour can be a maddening experience. If you’re planning on renting a car or driving through the city, you’ll want to avoid the major expressways like the Dan Ryan Expressway, Kennedy Expressway, and Eisenhower Expressway during peak traffic hours.
Why you should avoid it:
Severe traffic congestion: Chicago’s rush hour traffic is among the worst in the country, and sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic for hours isn’t the best way to experience the city.
Stress and confusion: Chicago’s expressways can be difficult to navigate, especially for out-of-town drivers. Constant merges, heavy traffic, and aggressive driving can create a stressful experience, and you’ll likely waste precious time that could be spent exploring the city’s sights.
Instead, consider taking public transportation or exploring the city by foot. Chicago’s downtown area is very walkable, and there’s plenty to see and do without needing to rely on a car.
7. Lower Wacker Drive: A Challenging Navigation Spot
While Lower Wacker Drive isn’t a dangerous area per se, it can be extremely confusing for first-time visitors to Chicago. Located below the more familiar Upper Wacker Drive, this underground road system is used primarily for deliveries, taxis, and local traffic. However, its maze-like structure and dimly lit conditions can be disorienting for drivers.
Why you should avoid it:
Confusing navigation: Lower Wacker is notorious for confusing drivers who aren’t familiar with its layout. GPS systems can struggle to provide accurate directions, and the lack of natural light can make it difficult to find your way.
Limited visibility: Lower Wacker has poor lighting, which, combined with the heavy flow of trucks and taxis, makes it a stressful environment for drivers.
If you’re driving in Chicago, it’s best to stick to the main streets and avoid Lower Wacker unless you absolutely need to use it.
8. O’Hare International Airport Layover Areas
While O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and generally very safe, certain parts of the airport—particularly during long layovers or late-night hours—can be uncomfortable or isolating.
Why you should avoid it:
Isolation and lack of amenities: If you find yourself in a terminal during a long layover, particularly overnight, many of the airport’s amenities will be closed, and some sections of the airport can feel deserted.
Overcrowded areas: On the flip side, O’Hare is also notorious for overcrowding in certain terminals. During peak travel times, you may find yourself crammed into tight spaces with limited seating and long lines for food and restrooms.
For a more comfortable airport experience, try to avoid booking layovers that leave you stuck at O’Hare for extended periods, and if possible, plan your arrival and departure during less busy hours.
Conclusion
Chicago is an incredible city with a lot to offer, but like any major metropolis, it has areas that are better avoided by tourists. By steering clear of high-crime neighborhoods like West Garfield Park, Englewood, and Fuller Park, you can enjoy the best that Chicago has to offer without unnecessary risk. Similarly, avoiding confusing or stressful areas like Lower Wacker Drive and the city’s expressways during rush hour will save you time and frustration.
Chicago is a city of contrasts, with some neighborhoods experiencing rapid development and others struggling with economic decline and crime. By being aware of these realities, you can explore the Windy City with confidence, enjoying its cultural, historical, and culinary delights while staying safe and informed.
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