Chicago’s gang violence has made headlines in recent years. But, don’t worry. You’ll be quite safe if you remember our safety tips. Spike Lee directed a film called Chi-Raq, depicting Chicago’s warlike violence on the south side. Avoid these neighborhoods at all costs. Tourist areas are usually rather safe. Common crimes near tourist areas are pickpocketing, smartphone snatching, and gambling scams, such as Three-card Monte. Avoid gathering crowds and secure your valuables in your front pocket or money wallet. Plan your travel route for a Chicago day trip ahead of time, have your ticket/passes ready, and try to appear confident and purposeful so as to avoid the attention of would be pickpocketers.