Planning a vacation in the Chicago area? While the city’s vibrant downtown often steals the show, its suburbs offer a unique blend of attractions and experiences. Here’s a candid guide to help you decide where to stay—and which areas you might want to avoid.
Recommended Suburbs
Gurnee
Why Stay Here: Gurnee is the quintessential tourist hub of Chicagoland. With major attractions like Six Flags Great America, Gurnee Mills Mall, and Great Wolf Lodge, it’s packed with fun for all ages. Grand Avenue is the main strip bustling with hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it incredibly convenient for visitors.
In addition to the thrill and excitement of Six Flags Great America, Gurnee offers a variety of year-round entertainment options. The sprawling Gurnee Mills Mall isn’t just for shopaholics; it’s a destination for family-friendly activities as well. With its extensive range of stores, including outlet shopping for top-brand discounts, this massive mall features everything from indoor kart racing to a 20-screen cinema experience. The culinary scene in Gurnee is diverse, offering a staggering array of dining choices that encompass everything from classic American favorites to global cuisine. For those looking to relax after an exhilarating day at the amusement park, Great Wolf Lodge provides an indoor water park tempting both kids and adults to unwind and play. What makes Gurnee truly exceptional is its family-oriented nature—it’s not just about fast-paced fun but also about creating lasting memories with loved ones. That said, be sure to replenish your energy at one of the local eateries before venturing out to the next adventure Gurnee has in store.
Fun Fact: Gurnee gets over 23 Million Tourists a year!
Local Attractions: Six Flags Great America, Gurnee Mills Mall, Great Wolf Lodge
Safety Tip: While Gurnee is the go-to spot for tourists, be cautious, especially at crowded attractions like the mall or amusement park. Keep a low profile to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
While Gurnee is often celebrated for its vibrant attractions and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s essential to recognize that no place is entirely free from crime. Recent reports have highlighted incidents of car jackings and shootings, particularly in high-profile areas such as the vicinity of Six Flags Great America. These unsettling events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, even in places where people go to relax and enjoy themselves. The local authorities are actively working to curb these crimes by increasing security measures and police presence in these busy areas. As a visitor, it’s crucial to stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded locations or parking lots. Always lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and report any suspicious behavior immediately. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy all that Gurnee has to offer while keeping safety at the forefront of your experience.
Libertyville
Why Stay Here: Just a few minutes from Gurnee, Libertyville offers a more laid-back vibe. This affluent suburb is perfect for those who want to enjoy local restaurants without the touristy chaos. And if Six Flags is on your agenda, it’s just a short drive away.
Local Attractions: Local dining and quaint downtown experiences
Quick Access to Beaches
Both Gurnee and Libertyville offer the perfect launchpad for beach lovers eager to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Illinois beach parks. Just a short drive away is the Illinois State Beach Park, a stunning expanse along the shores of Lake Michigan, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s splendor with its picturesque sand dunes and tranquil beachside views. This prime location delivers a unique fusion of natural serenity and outdoor adventure, beckoning those who crave the refreshing embrace of the waves. Whether you’re planning a picnic, taking a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore, or basking in the sun, the close proximity of Gurnee and Libertyville to these beaches ensures that your itinerary can be as spontaneous or relaxed as you desire. With the sense of independence and joy that comes from a beach day just around the corner, you’re just a short drive away from unbeatable chill vibes and memories that last a lifetime.
Des Plaines
Why Stay Here: If you’re flying into O’Hare (ORD), Des Plaines offers convenience with quick access to both Gurnee and downtown Chicago. It’s home to a notable casino and is a common stopover for business travelers.
Local Attractions: Rivers Casino
Fascinating yet Grisly History
Did You Know? Des Plaines carries a dark chapter in its history as it was once home to infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy. Known as the “Killer Clown,” Gacy committed numerous horrifying crimes in the 1970s, using his guise as a civic-minded member of the community to mask his sinister acts. Despite this grim association, Des Plaines has worked diligently to overcome this somber past and has transformed into a vibrant hub with much more to offer than its notorious history. While this fact underscores an eerie past that some might find unsettling, it also serves as a stark reminder of the area’s resilience and capacity for renewal, embracing new identities and narratives in the face of a challenging legacy.
Schaumburg
Why Stay Here: Known for hosting numerous business conferences, Schaumburg is well-equipped with hotels. While it’s not the closest to tourist hotspots, it is strategically located for business visits.
Local Attractions: Woodfield Mall
Naperville
Why Stay Here: Recognized as one of the safest places in America, Naperville welcomes you with open arms. While it may not be a tourist magnet, its safety and serene environment make it a worthy consideration.
Local Attractions: Historic Downtown Area
Suburbs to Avoid
Tinley Park
Why Avoid: Although concerts are a draw here, the area isn’t designed for tourists and has limited attractions beyond music events. Crime rates can also be concerning.
Gary, Indiana
Why Avoid: Technically part of Chicagoland, Gary is notorious for being one of the most dangerous areas in the USA. It’s best to steer clear altogether.
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Gary, Indiana has earned a reputation that’s hard to shake, and for all the wrong reasons. This city is often highlighted for its alarmingly high crime rate, which surpasses that of other areas in the region. The reality is stark: with economic decline and unemployment issues looming large, some residents face formidable challenges. It’s imperative to approach Gary’s situation with both a sense of urgency and empathy, understanding that these statistics are reflective of deeper, systemic issues that require attention and intervention. While the narrative may be unsettling, acknowledging the problem is the first step towards instigating change and striving for safer communities.
Waukegan
Why Avoid: Despite proximity to affluent suburbs, Waukegan struggles with significant crime issues. Be wary when booking hotels labeled as “Gurnee/Six Flags Hotels” that may actually be in Waukegan.
Waukegan faces notable challenges when it comes to serious crime, making it a critical concern for residents and visitors alike. While efforts are underway to revitalize the area, crime statistics reveal stubbornly high rates of violent offenses, including assault and robbery. This reality demands a candid discussion and passionate commitment to community safety initiatives. Local authorities are assertively working on strategies to address underlying issues and allocate resources effectively, but until tangible progress is observed, caution remains advised for those unfamiliar with the area. Recognizing these challenges is the first step towards fostering significant change and ensuring a safer future for the suburb.
Virtually All South Suburbs
Why Avoid: Unfortunately, there’s little on offer for tourists, with crime being a major issue in these areas.
The Suburban Divide
The suburbs follow a trend mirroring the city, creating a striking north-south divide that cannot be ignored. Generally speaking, the northern suburbs boast affluence, marked by sprawling estates, excellent schools, and a plethora of amenities that cater to residents’ needs. This wealth is a significant factor in maintaining low crime rates and fostering a secure environment. However, venture into the southern suburbs, and the picture changes drastically. Here, low income and high crime statistics become stark reminders of the socio-economic disparities plaguing the region. It’s a tale of two worlds within close proximity, demanding an assertive and passionate response to bridge the divide. Acknowledging the root causes is essential, as we cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the systemic inequalities that perpetuate these conditions. Only through targeted interventions and sincere commitment can we hope to uplift these communities and create a more equitable suburban landscape.
Safety Tips for Visitors
- Be Aware: Keep to yourself and avoid engaging with any suspicious activity.
- Stay Vigilant at Night: Avoid walking outdoors at night, and refrain from wearing standout clothing.
- Be Inconspicuous: Locals know how to move around safely. If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s best to lay low.
Visiting Chicago’s suburbs can be a delightful experience if you know where to stay and how to conduct yourself. Use this guide to enjoy your stay while keeping safe. Happy travels!
