Chicago is a large, vibrant, and generally safe city, especially in the downtown area where our meeting will take place. The city’s overall crime rate is not among the top twenty in the United States, and the majority of crime occurs in a small number of neighborhoods far from the Loop.
The Loop has a residential population of approximately 50,000 people, consisting largely of young professionals and retirees, along with some families. It is also a major cultural and commercial center, attracting roughly 50 million visitors each year. As a result, streets are busy well into the evening, particularly around theaters, museums, restaurants, and hotels.
As in any major international city, participants should use standard street awareness: Stay attentive, avoid being absorbed in your phone while walking, and keep personal items secure. Pickpocketing is uncommon in Chicago, but it is wise not to hold a phone loosely in your hand—especially when seated near doors on trains.
A handful of large, spontaneously organized gatherings have occurred in the Loop and River North areas in recent months. If you encounter such a gathering, particularly if there appears to be confusion, agitation, shouting, running, or other signs that a situation may be escalating, please leave the area promptly and seek a populated, indoor location.
Local Late-Evening Walking Guidance
As a practical point of reference from a longtime Chicago visitor: Michigan Avenue remains active and well populated until at least midnight and is a preferred north–south walking route in the Loop and North Loop (across the river). Late in the evening, foot traffic thins out farther west and south, and some bus stops may be quiet. After about 10:30 pm, taking a taxi or rideshare is often the most comfortable option for walks three or more blocks west of Michigan Avenue or in the South Loop.
Other ways to upgrade your street smarts
- Do not get on an empty train car. There are multiple reasons others have chosen a different car.
- Do not stand close to the train platform edge.
- Do not wear earbuds on the street. You’ll not hear a delivery bike coming up behind you or any other commotion.
- Walk with a purpose. Do not stop for people with a story or a petition, and you’ll avoid scammers. Say “no” firmly and keep walking.
- Cross-body purses and bags got their name for a reason.
- Don’t wear your name tag after you’ve left the building. That makes you a target for scammers and other ne’er-do-wells.