Chicago, United States
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Chicago.
Wealthiest neighborhood with high-end shopping, expensive dining, and lakefront access. Very safe but costs a lot and feels less authentic than other areas. Good if security is your top priority.
Gold Coast is one of Chicago's wealthiest areas, running along Lake Michigan between Oak Street Beach and Lincoln Park. Historic mansions, luxury high-rises, designer shops, and expensive restaurants. The Magnificent Mile shopping is on the southern edge - lots of tourists and flagship stores. You'll see people walking designer dogs, luxury cars, doormen at every building. Safe day and night with constant foot traffic, good lighting, and private security everywhere. Oak Street Beach is accessible in summer. Good for people-watching. Upscale restaurants are used to solo diners - staff are professional. The downside is everything costs a lot - coffee, cocktails, meals - and it feels less authentic than other neighborhoods. Good if you prioritize safety and don't mind spending more.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ExcellentHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
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"Very safe neighborhood"
"Expensive but felt worth it"
"Nice architecture, lake access"
"Could eat alone at restaurants without issue"
"Felt secure walking around any time"
"Not the real Chicago but very comfortable"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Upscale residential area with good restaurants, lakefront access, and low crime. More expensive than other neighborhoods but safe and walkable. Close enough to downtown while feeling more local.
Main food destination with high-end restaurants and cocktail bars in old warehouse buildings. Safe and walkable. Good if you care about dining and want something more local than downtown.
Diverse North Side area with LGBTQ+-friendly Boystown, sports-focused Wrigleyville, and residential East Lakeview. Generally safe and inclusive with good restaurants and nightlife. Feels like actual neighborhood living.
Help other women stay safe in Gold Coast
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.