Walking from Bottom Lounge back to West Loop Hotel

Question

Hello,

Any opinions on if it is ok to walk back from Bottom Lounge my hotel after a Saturday show that will go til 10 PM or later? I have walked from the West Loop and back to the Aragon, but never ventured towards the Union Park area , ect.

Answer

Walking back from Bottom Lounge to your West Loop hotel after a late Saturday show is generally okay, but there are a few things to consider to ensure your safety and comfort. While the West Loop area is quite vibrant and walkable, there are some factors to keep in mind when heading towards the Union Park area, especially at night.

Distance and Route: Bottom Lounge is located in the West Loop, not far from the Union Park neighborhood, so it’s a fairly short walk—around 1 mile or so, depending on where your hotel is. However, this area is less tourist-heavy than places like the Loop or River North, so you'll want to be more mindful of your surroundings as you walk at night.

Safety Considerations: Generally speaking, the West Loop is a safe area, especially around the popular areas near Randolph Street, but Union Park and some of the streets leading out can be quieter at night. While the walk is relatively short, it's still advisable to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like using your phone while walking, and try to stay on well-lit streets. If you're unfamiliar with the area, it may feel a bit less lively than the bustling parts of the city.

What to Expect: The walk itself will take you through residential areas and some quiet streets, though there are pockets of activity near popular bars and restaurants in the West Loop. There are typically some streetlights, but it can still feel somewhat empty as you approach Union Park. Depending on your route, you might pass through less active streets after the show ends, which can make some people feel uncomfortable. Here's what you should consider:

Well-Lit Streets: Stick to well-lit streets and main roads, such as Randolph or Ashland, for the safest walk.
Alternative Transportation: If you’re concerned about walking back at night, you could consider using a rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) for the 5-10 minute drive back to your hotel.
Public Transit: If you're worried about walking at night, there are buses and the CTA Pink Line (Ashland station) nearby that can help you get back to the West Loop quickly. It's a good backup option if you're not comfortable walking the whole way.
Group Walking: If you're with friends, walking in a group tends to feel safer and more comfortable, especially in less populated areas at night.

Final Thoughts: While it's definitely feasible to walk from Bottom Lounge to your hotel, you should use your judgment based on the specific route, the weather, and your comfort level with walking at night in a less crowded area. If you’re feeling uneasy about the walk, consider taking a rideshare or public transportation for peace of mind. Otherwise, it’s a relatively quick and safe walk for those who are familiar with the area and comfortable with the surroundings.

Walking from Bottom Lounge back to West Loop Hotel

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