by Illinois, a state rich in history and culture, is also home to some locations that have garnered a reputation for being among the most dangerous in the United States. While the state offers countless attractions, certain areas-particularly in urban centers-pose heightened risks for both residents and visitors.
Among these, Chicago frequently emerges in discussions about tourist safety, but other cities like Rockford and Danville have also been highlighted for their elevated crime rates.
Chicago: A City of Contrasts
Chicago, the third-largest city in the country, attracts millions of tourists annually with its world-class museums, iconic architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods. However, it is often cited as a city with significant crime concerns, largely due to its size and the concentration of violent incidents in specific neighborhoods.
Despite the high number of crimes reported, most tourist-frequented areas such as the Magnificent Mile, River North, and the Loop remain relatively safe when standard precautions are observed.
Tourists in Chicago face risks common to any major city, including pickpocketing, auto accidents, and occasional incidents of violent crime. Additional hazards include slips and falls, food poisoning, and rare but serious events like airport accidents at O’Hare International Airport.
While the city’s overall violent crime rate contributes to Illinois’ position among the top 10 most dangerous states, these statistics are heavily influenced by specific high-crime neighborhoods rather than the city as a whole.
Rockford and Danville: High Crime Rates
Beyond Chicago, Rockford and Danville have both been named among the most dangerous towns in the United States, according to a list compiled by 24/7 Wall St.. Rockford, located along Illinois’ northern border with Wisconsin, has a violent crime rate of 15 per 1,000 residents.
The city’s history as a major industrial center gave way to economic decline, leading to increased poverty and, subsequently, higher crime rates. Danville, once a thriving coal mining and manufacturing hub, experienced a similar trajectory, with economic downturns fueling crime and population decline. Danville’s violent crime rate stands at 15.8 per 1,000 residents.
Why Are These Spots Considered Dangerous?
The danger associated with these Illinois destinations stems primarily from:
- High violent crime rates: Both Rockford and Danville exceed national averages for violent incidents, including assault, robbery, and homicide.
- Economic decline: The loss of major industries has led to increased poverty and unemployment, which are closely linked to higher crime rates.
- Urban disparities: While some Illinois suburbs enjoy crime rates well below the national average, urban centers and post-industrial towns face significant safety challenges.
Tourist-Specific Risks in Chicago
For tourists, the most common dangers in Chicago include:
- Auto accidents, especially for those unfamiliar with city driving and traffic patterns
- Petty theft, such as pickpocketing in crowded areas
- Negligent security at hotels or entertainment venues
- Slips, falls, and other accidents in poorly maintained public spaces
- Foodborne illnesses from unsanitary establishments
Despite these risks, most visits to Chicago and other Illinois attractions are uneventful when travelers exercise common sense and remain aware of their surroundings.
Crime Tours: Turning Danger into Education
Interestingly, Chicago’s notorious criminal history has become a tourist attraction in its own right. Crime and mob tours take visitors to historic sites associated with infamous figures like Al Capone and John Dillinger, offering an educational perspective on the city’s tumultuous past. These tours are generally safe and professionally operated, providing a unique way to engage with the city’s darker history while remaining in secure environments.
While certain Illinois destinations-particularly parts of Chicago, Rockford, and Danville-are frequently cited among the most dangerous tourist spots in the US due to high crime rates and economic challenges, the actual risk to tourists is often mitigated by sticking to well-trafficked areas and exercising standard safety precautions. For most visitors, Illinois remains a rewarding destination, but awareness and vigilance are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Sources:
- https://reolink.com/blog/most-dangerous-cities-in-illinois/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-12-11-2-illinois-destinations-named-among-the-most-dangerous-towns-in-the-us/
- https://www.gainsberglaw.com/blog/tourism-related-accidents-chicago/
- https://www.choosechicago.com/listing/chicago-crime-tours/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/AskChicago/comments/uwym8y/taking_a_trip_to_chicago_but_suddenly_everyone_is/
