Solo travel

Question

Hi, I was looking to travel solo to Chicago in October/start of November and was looking for some honest feedback on if you think it is generally safe for a solo female traveller? I have read mixed things about the safety of Chicago which has thrown me a bit so just looking for honest opinions. For reference I am looking at staying at either the staypineapple or Royal Sonesta on E Wacker drive. Are these good areas to stay? I have previously travelled to New York, Toronto, Berlin and Iceland solo and not had any safety concerns. Thank you!

Answer

Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city, but like any major urban area, it’s important to approach safety with some awareness, especially when traveling solo. Based on your previous solo travel experience in New York, Toronto, Berlin, and Iceland, you’re likely already familiar with how to navigate a city and stay aware of your surroundings. That being said, here’s an honest breakdown to help you feel confident about your trip:

Regarding solo female travel, Chicago is generally safe, but as with any large city, there are neighborhoods that are safer and others that are best avoided. The areas you're considering—Staypineapple and Royal Sonesta on East Wacker Drive—are both in excellent, safe locations for tourists.

Staypineapple (on E. Ohio St., near River North): This hotel is in a popular and lively neighborhood, known for its restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. The River North area is generally safe, with lots of foot traffic, especially during the day and evening. It's close to some of Chicago's best attractions, like the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute, which makes it a great choice for sightseeing. While it's a busy area, it's important to be cautious late at night when fewer people are around.
Royal Sonesta (on E. Wacker Dr.): This hotel is in another fantastic location, right on the Chicago River, offering great views and proximity to both downtown and the Loop area. The area around the Royal Sonesta is generally very safe, especially during the day and in the evenings. It's a business district, so there are usually a lot of people around. The location is also convenient to Navy Pier and the Riverwalk, making it a great base for solo exploration. Similar to Staypineapple, it’s wise to avoid wandering too far late at night in less populated areas.

Both of these areas are walkable and close to public transportation, so you'll have easy access to major attractions and restaurants. Chicago's public transportation (the "L" trains) is a reliable option, and the downtown areas where you’ll be staying are well-connected. However, as with any city, it's best to stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone in quieter, more isolated sections after dark.

Chicago does have some neighborhoods that are less safe than others, but you’re choosing to stay in two of the safest, most well-populated areas in the city. The downtown area, including the Magnificent Mile, Loop, and River North, is bustling with tourists, locals, and security personnel, which should give you peace of mind. Many solo travelers enjoy staying in these neighborhoods because they are lively, offer lots of things to do, and are well-patrolled by police and security staff.

Here are some additional tips for staying safe while traveling solo in Chicago:

Stay alert, especially at night: As with any large city, it's a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings when you're out, particularly after dark. Stick to busy, well-lit streets, and avoid alleyways or deserted areas.
Use rideshare apps: For late-night travel or if you're unsure about a route, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. They are reliable and often safer than walking or taking public transit in quieter areas at night.
Keep your belongings secure: Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can happen in any city. Keep your belongings close and be mindful of your bag, especially in crowded places or tourist hotspots.
Know your route: Before heading out, especially if you plan to explore after dark, familiarize yourself with the streets and your destination. Using Google Maps can help you stay on track and avoid any confusing or unsafe areas.

Overall, Chicago is a great destination for solo travelers, including women. It offers a mix of culture, history, food, and outdoor activities that are perfect for exploring solo. By staying in areas like River North and the Chicago Riverwalk, you'll be in the heart of the action, with plenty of things to see and do, while staying safe. Enjoy your trip, and trust your instincts—Chicago is an exciting city to explore!

Solo travel

More Chicago Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions