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Don’t get mugged, carjacked, stabbed, or killed. Other than that, welcome to our city!
Bowl Leader
Welcome to Chicago, you’d love it! I moved from Boston as well and it was an easy transition tbh. River north is a great area, you’re walking distance to almost everything you need. Lots of bars and good restaurants there and if you work in downtown, it’s an easy commute. I’d say learn more about your area by walking around, learn the transit system, both CTA and bus and know which areas to avoid. Explore the different areas over the weekend (Lincoln park, lake view, wicker park, Logan Square) are some of my favorites and try to make the most of the summer here. As for don’ts, just don’t say that you’re a Boston sports fan haha jk 😜 if you have any other specific questions, feel free to let me know.
Welcome to the neighborhood!
Not sure if you’re planning on driving here, but take caution. Keep doors locked and windows up in public parking garages.
If you’re not driving, and plan on taking public transit, you’ll need to purchase a ventra card (you can grab one at your neighborhood CVS).
You left Boston for Chicago??? TBH besides the city, which honestly has a lot to offer if you’re a city person, there isn’t much more to this area. I’m itching to get to an area that has more to offer like the east coast, but family has me stuck here.
For your actual question…
If you’re bringing a car and parking in the street, read up on dibs to save your car some damage.
Avoid the south side in general and Google the neighborhoods to avoid on the Westside.
The L is fantastic, but know your stops and watch for the pickpockets. I personally wouldn’t ride it past 9pm - 37M for reference on this.
Learn the outdoor festival schedule, it can wreck havoc with your schedule. I’m in the burbs but feel for the actual chicagoans who have to deal with everyone coming into the city for that stuff.
Don’t order ketchup on a hotdog. Mustard only.
Visit portillos asap if you haven’t been, get a slice of chocolate cake.
We cherish and will defend deep dish forever, but TBH most pizza is a thin crust / cracker style. Deep dish is just too heavy and thin crust is better.
Good luck!!
WPE is a great building! I’d explore the restaurants and fitness studios if you want to meet people. Most of the people in the city are friendly. I’d avoid walking alone at night, although RN is very busy, there is a lot of crime there in the evening and on weekends.
If you have a car, get good parking.