Chicago: Tourist Traps & Scams in Chicago

[@davidmahon5269]

We went on a tour of Norway and the guide was telling us how rough Aquavit was. Everyone else in the group was disturbed by it. And we just went, "Eh. It's milder than malort!" 🤣

[@woltersworld]

Hahahaahaha

[@sebastianjoseph2828]

I wasn't much of a drinker at the time and went to Chicago. One friend wanted me to try Malort, another begged me not to. I drank it and actually liked it. Both of them gave me weird looks. I don't know what's wrong with my taste buds.

[@Simon-tc1mc]

I really don't get the hype with Malört. The first time I had it was such a let down because I thought it would be so much worse than it actually was.

[@slw0599]

Thanks for this mark we're coming here from the UK for our first time next April...then onto Pacific coast highway driving all the way to San Diego.

[@davidmahon5269]

@@slw0599 I’ve driven down that road from San Francisco to Monterey Bay. It’s a very pretty drive. Hopefully you’re not driving from Chicago to California though? That’s a somewhat brutal drive, simply because it’s so dull.

[@billyruben6540]

Not a resident, just a frequent visitor. One thing I try to encourage people to do is get out of The Loop and head north of the river. There may be a few hidden gems, but The Loop is mostly Starbucks, Walgreens, Potbelly, and Dunkin. The true Chicago experience happens in the neighborhoods. Dive bars, breweries, independent coffee shops, and eclectic cuisine. It's a magical city and people who stick to The Loop and Mag Mile are doing themselves a disservice.

[@rotavarp]

100%

[@woltersworld]

So true!

[@sadcatsam]

Agreed !

[@ninanina164]

suggest a area or neighborhood

[@billyruben6540]

@@ninanina164 Logan Square, Lake View, Lincoln Park

[@Paracosm]

I went on a surprise trip to chicago recently and was blown away by how nice the city is

[@Simon-tc1mc]

Best in the US

[@onewizzard]

haha good joke....I live here and it's a dump....car jacking murders raapes rascism everywhere....yep Chicago rocks

[@taratarat5818]

@@Simon-tc1mc Facts!!! People hate to say it!!!

[@taratarat5818]

@@onewizzard Gun Violence... Yeah. The rest of what you said says you're not frm Chicago. Lol smh

[@onewizzard]

@@taratarat5818 mmmkk come over to South Cicero and claim it the jewel of the US

[@mjfletch5737]

Don't cower and automatically reach for your change when a street person is aggressive asking for money; be like a Chicagoan and look 'em in the eye and say, No! and keep walking.

[@RyanValizan]

I rarely give cash but do occasionally. I remember last week a guy asked for .75 so I tossed him a buck since I had cash and was feeling good. Dude asked for more and I’m like, “nope. Know what you want before you ask” 😂

[@cocoaorange1]

Good advice.

[@Konnersaki]

Glad I grew up here lol LA and Las Vegas are much more intimidating in that regard these days tbh. They will actually keep following you

[@sidecar7714]

Pro tip: when visiting a tower (anywhere in the world), book lunch or dinner instead of paying for elevation, which typically is included with your reservation. Dinner for two (at Willis)is $100 vs $73 for elevation alone. Plus you usually get a VIP experience in the bargain and no waiting in lines. You’re welcome ☮️

[@Ramser03]

That’s genius

[@LittleMissSunshine721]

Great tip!

[@bradybrapples]

also it's not sears tower but the bar in the hancock building is a good, cheap view

[@ashleyjeffers8832]

I live in Chicago, here's my advice. NEVER text or have your phone out on the train or buses. The snatch and grab has gone up exponentially. Don't ever give "homeless" money, they look to see what you have and will snatch your wallet. Listen to your gut, if something feels off it probably is, always follow your intuition. If someone tries talking to you, just keep walking, don't engage, it's okay not to be friendly, after all they are not your friends.

[@jeffburdick869]

I commuted on the L for years and played on my phone all the time. Just pay attention to your surroundings...and especially at stops, because a grab and then running off the train, and they're gone before you even realized what happened.

[@taratarat5818]

Where did a homeless man snatched a wallet? Lol

[@dalegaliniak607]

Snatch and grab honestly happens more often than pickpocketing. But being aware will keep you from being a target. I've never heard of a homeless person doing it, though. They will swear and yell at you for not giving them money and follow you down the street, which is scary enough, don't get me wrong, but I've never seen it go beyond that.

[@mitchgawlik1175]

@Brian Comic books, so no one fucks with you.

[@lynwill9946]

Criminals grab phones regardless of the city or country. Be smart without being paranoid

[@dalegaliniak607]

As a Chicago native, and lived in the south loop until a couple of years ago, some comments: 1) The loop is dangerous at night? Empty, sure, but I never thought it was bad. Also, great architecture but not much else, so yeah, stay somewhere else, you'll have more fun. See the architecture from the architecture foundation's river tour. 2) Malort is delicious. Don't believe anybody who says otherwise. (Really, though, it's not as bad as people make it out to be. It's not good, by any means, but it's no worse than say, Fireball, and frequently an acquired). 3) I guess I've reached the point where I can tune the beggars out without thinking about them. The best ways to deal with a beggar is to ignore them. If you do decide to give them money/food/whatever, make sure you decide what you're going to give them before you talk to them, because it's inevitable that they will ask for more, whatever it is. But you can tell the local because they can have a conversation with someone while being yelled at for money without missing a beat. The beggers are mostly harmless, just loud, and you will be quickly moved on if you don't engage. People with the streetwise newspaper are generally better. 4) Navy Pier is great for the Ferris Wheel, Children's Museum, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Locals will go there. But yeah, we'll ignore most of the other things there, including the restaurants, but that museum is great if you have kids. 6) All taxis are required by local law to take credit cards. If their credit card machine isn't working, shrug and start walking away. You'll find it will magically start working with a sigh (the driver is just trying to get a fare off the books) 7) I've never actually seen a pick pocket here in my entire life nor really know anybody who's had their pocket picked. That doesn't mean be dumb, but it usually happens as a purse/backpack snatching instead. Also people test/break into cars all the time, so don't keep valuables in the open, or things that look like they might _contain_ valuables, like a backpack or suitcase. The various neighborhoods are probably _worse_ for that than the loop.

[@taratarat5818]

BEST COMMENT!!! Definitely facts word for word!!! Thank you 😊

[@billfuhry2112]

Agree with most of this. I've said this on another of these, but Navy Pier in nice weather is fabulous people watching and having a beer or three -- just don't get stuck there for dinner or you'll end up at Bubba Gump or some other tourist garbage. I don't think Malort is delicious, lol. But it is a Chicago tradition. And Mark compares it to licorice but... I think it's more like bile and grapefruit rind.

[@travelsbytardis9713]

If a dude comes up to you while eating at McDonald’s downtown and says he’s collecting money for a funeral don’t give him anything. I’ve been approached every time I’ve eaten in a McDonald’s downtown for years. I just put my hand up and stop them before they launch into their story now.

[@woltersworld]

Me too!

[@SuperSlimshady1]

wow thats low there's a special place in hell for him

[@RyanValizan]

Hahaha, that’s hilarious. It’s getting to be that bad walking down main street in KCMO too. Seems like every day there’s some solicitor on the corner by the grocery store wanting to know if “I have a second.” It’s a huge tourist trap here.

[@FemFantastic2.0]

Go for a drink at the Hancock building at the 95th floor restaurant. No admission price and the food is excellent.

[@timmmahhhh]

Great advice, and The Signature Room is there floors above that observation dexk. Dinner is pricey but worth it.

[@Charlie5464]

The architecture tour on the river maybe the best tourist trap I’ve encountered. Spend the money and do it!

[@roxanne533]

yes, that tour by the architectural society is top-notch!

[@mitchgawlik1175]

I wouldn't call the various boat tours a "tourist trap". It's a must-do for my wife and I and we live 25 miles out from the Loop. Whether you take a river or lake tour, you're going to enjoy it. Of course, parking's a bitch if you drive in but that's Chicago.

[@Charlie5464]

@@mitchgawlik1175 good point. Not every touristy thing is a trap. Had some locals tell us that they do the tour as well.

[@johnrossjr.3858]

If going for lunch in Chicago (11am-3pm) always inquire if they have a special Lunch Menu! Most pizza parlors and other great restaurants have great lunch specials, but won't give it to you unless you ask for it. Locals know but visitors don't; and the restaurants want you to pay full price.

[@elizav7902]

As a Chicago born and raised local, I can 100% vouch for all of this. Spot on Mark! John Hancock has a way better observation deck view than the Willis Tower, and skip out on Navy Pier all together.

[@woltersworld]

Thank you!

[@1968superclark]

@eliza, we are moving this summer to Chicago, and we would like to get some insights into a safer location to get an apartment/ condo. Thank you.

[@maryjohnson753]

@@1968superclark Just ask us natives about the neighborhood you're thinking about & we'll tell you.

[@1968superclark]

Wicker park? Is it safe?

[@1968superclark]

@@maryjohnson753 wicker park?

[@MrsFazz68]

Many thanks. We're visiting in August. Appreciate your vlogs a lot because you always give great advise 🇬🇧

[@woltersworld]

You are very welcome

[@alexevans997]

Chicago is awesome- some of the best food in the world and the river is amazing

[@yesuahiniguez6268]

I hope I'm not too late, but like he said, look into staying in some of the neighborhoods if you can. Depending where you stay, you can take public transportation downtown if need be pretty easily, or just taxi/uber. Wicker park/Logan is great, Lincoln Square, there's Randolph street now a days.. and a ton more. They're all kind of unique with lots of things to do. Also, since this was about scams and not things to do, look into breweries, we have some truly amazing ones in the city, from Revolution, Eries, Off Color and many more, they're not your standard hoppy beers, (revolution can be).

[@jeffburdick869]

I've lived in Chicago for the last 12 years. If you have additional questions, feel free to ask. Additionally, Chicagoans(and Midwesterners in general) are genuinely nice and friendly. Don't be surprised if strangers talk to you as if they know you. This is often off-putting to Europeans who think it seems fake...but its genuine. We're just friendly people. Oh, and once they hear your accents, many will want to ask you all about the UK.

[@charlesstargel5189]

So the reason they ask you if you want appetizers at a Chicago style pizza place is that it can take an hour to get it. A lot of tourists get angry that it take so long.

[@ahp259]

Most aggressive panhandlers. They will not leave you alone. Best to ignore them but if they will not let you go and it feels like they are robbing you, ham up your acting skills and tell them you'll "pray for them"--worked every time. (Native who lived in the west side and Northside)

[@woltersworld]

Good to know

[@derp195]

I've never found it necessary to give more than a "sorry bro". The real key is to not look weak. If you look scared or uncomfortable or too apologetic, they'll pick up on that and push harder.

[@BargertuckyBeaverhogs]

The host is absolutely right about all of this

[@woltersworld]

Thank you Logan

[@Simon-tc1mc]

I think it's funny how people get so fixated on downtown Chicago. The real heart of the city is all the great neighborhoods.

[@janki3353]

No one travels to Chicago to see the ghetto neighborhoods lmao

[@ramencurry6672]

@@janki3353 You should delete your post. You obviously don’t know the city. Chicago actually has nice quiet neighborhoods on the north side.

[@janki3353]

@@ramencurry6672 No, it doesnt matter how nice and quiet they are, no one comes to the neighborhoods as a tourist. Theres nothing to see. Maybe they'll come for a bar or two, but thats about it. Theres nothing else to attract a tourist.

[@ramencurry6672]

@@janki3353 You’re obviously incorrect. I’ve been to the neighborhoods and talked to local business employees. Tourists do come. Do you actually fact check before posting? You should delete your posts. It’s too embarrassing

[@janki3353]

@@ramencurry6672 bro 68 people were shot in from july 1st to 4th i dont wanna hear it. terrible ass city

[@jeffburdick869]

1:20 thats changed a lot over the last few years. I lived in River North in 2012 and back then, the loop was empty at night. But since then, they've built something like 90,000 apartments/condos in the loop.

[@kangaroobot]

Yeah, when I went to the Navy Pier, I had no idea how many tourists would be there. It was like looking at a sea of people, next to the ocean. It was still a great place to visit though, so don’t be discouraged from going, if you’ve never been.

[@Simon-tc1mc]

I'm from Chicago, and I rode the bus out there, and I was just laughing with my friend at how literally every car we were stuck in traffic with had an out of state plate.

[@itachimaster645]

Me and my partner came from NYC and Chicago was pretty nice for us. I definitely don’t recommend booking a hotel at the Loop, we booked a private room at a hostel in Lincoln Park and it’s way safer to walk around at night quiet and peaceful, there are bars and restaurants around the area too that stay open late.

[@your_royal_highness]

Don’t be out too late in ANY neighborhood. Keep your head on a swivel. There are robberies and shootings on the street in Lincoln Park. Just be prudent

[@lorrifrewert8507]

You can go to the bar at the top of the John Hancock building for free if you want to get a great view. They expect that you order something but it’s still less expensive than going to the Willis Tower or the JH observation deck. Also, I live in Chicago and I go to Navy Pier. It’s a beautiful setting and it’s fun. I avoid eating there because it is expensive. Except for the Rainbow ice cream cone which is totally worth every penny.

[@ebenezerwheezer4619]

Downtown Chicago at night is perfectly fine, too many people still out and about and a surprisingly strong police presence

[@lp22aquatics]

Great video...I've lived my whole life in the Chicago area, so was interested to see what made the list. 100% agree about Navy Pier! I've never even heard of Malort though, so that truly must be something people pull with Tourists.

[@woltersworld]

It has had a great comeback the last 5-10 years

[@JessieJellybeans]

Chicago area isn’t Chicago

[@robertschwartz4810]

I had it pulled on me and I'm from here! It's worse than you'd imagine.

[@lukevanrooyen7496]

Yeah, clear suburbanite here lol

[@anthonythomas6593]

Chicago is NOT making a comeback. It is going the way of Detroit

[@rcharris1838]

“Do you have change for a 50?” Even if u do .. say u don’t

[@derp195]

And nobody only needs $x to get a bus/train ticket.

[@davejohnson7432]

As far as the people who beg for money, before they ask you for a dollar, you ask them first. "Hey dude, could you please spare some pocket change?" It really cracks them up

[@woltersworld]

Yes!!!

[@christianoliver3572]

Hard pass on Malort!! I fell for that one on a business trip up there to Chicago in the 90s. I'd rather use gasoline for eye drops than ever taste that nasty stuff again. Do not pass on Portillos!! Take your Nexium and just go for it.

[@woltersworld]

I think you are giving gasoline a bad name. Malort is waaaaay worse :)

[@jeffburdick869]

Portillos has great Chicago dogs, but I've not found much else there that I like. Their Italian beefs are terrible.

[@2000det]

I got scammed by a young girl outside the union station...She said she was stranded,hungry,pregnant...I talked to her for 10 minutes listening to her sob story and ended up giving her $20....I seen her 2 days later on my return trip home doing the same scam begging routine...SMH...

[@StephanieRZ]

Yeah, it's not the friendliest route but it's honestly better to avoid those interactions, we never know another's intentions, and sob stories are extremely common worldwide... Help in need in cases that is heartfelt and isn't really an apparent sob story... or from beggars. Best to simply say no thank you, or can't at the moment/No, and walk away.

[@RyanValizan]

When manipulation is your job you can get pretty good at it. Just consider it an investment to your street skills.

[@mslatngrl]

When I was in Chicago I had one cab driver ask why I didn't give him the name of the hotel I was going to, the next one asked why I didn't give him the address.

[@jasonmoore3980]

I feel parking in general is a scam. I paid $70 for one day of parking and after I got in the parking deck, there were 0 available parking spots.

[@not_brandon01]

That is true, finding free parking outside the city and using the CTA is way cheaper and less stressful

[@jeffburdick869]

Use the parking apps. I've parked in the loop or close by for like $6 or $8 many times.

[@jayeff4021]

Basic Economics

[@matthewweflen]

It is very easy to (politely) cut off panhandlers with the simple phrase "Sorry, I don't have any cash." Any more persistence can be countered with "I'm in a hurry, I have to go."

[@wncjan]

I always carry my wallet deep in my front pocket, That way a pickpocket must come very close to my private parts in order to get hold of it. And I'm sure I'll notice that 😁 At least I haven't been pickpocketed so far.

[@rotavarp]

Great idea- I did this in Beijing for years. Never a problem.

[@lbrown9570]

Amen!

[@bhushaaa4244]

What a coincidence! I just got to chicago, and you’ve uploaded!

[@woltersworld]

Have fun!!!

[@mikeyrussell4836]

If you come here and stay downtown the whole time you aren't seeing Chicago the real city is in the neighborhoods. Pilsen. Wicker Park. Bridgeport. Lincoln Square. Roscoe Village. Give downtown a look and see the museums but dig around while you're here. Greatest city in the world.

[@kimmontenegro2258]

Parking. The hotel that I stayed at a few weeks ago wanted $54 a night to park on site. I ditched the car and just Ubered and walked. Also, the price difference between Uber and Lyft was huge the night that I landed. Best to compare prices before selecting.

[@woltersworld]

And that was cheap parking downtown

[@Kangasconrad]

My last trip to Chicago I went to Giordanos and as an appetizer, we got a thin crust pizza while waiting for the Deep Dish since it takes longer to cook through. In 4 days I also experienced several extreme weather changes. Unfortunately my trip to the tower was fogged in, but Im sure I will be back there eventually

[@SarahRenz59]

Be careful texting or making a call while walking down a sidewalk, especially if you have a pricey cellphone. Kids will run up and snatch it out of your hand in the blink of an eye. Better to duck into a store or entryway to use your phone.

[@bradleycarlson6081]

Street scamers, also the "security guard" (in a mix-n-match "uniform") who lost his wallet and needs money... and then there is the shoe-shine scam........

[@therealrobschroeder]

I lived in Chicago for 13 years and enjoyed your video. If someone asks you for money for food, buy the food for them and give it to them.

[@woltersworld]

Exactly

[@mikelynch3465]

Great content! thanks for the info

[@PrimeTimeTravelers]

You stole my thunder right at the end....was gonna say food and drinks at a Cubs game! We love Chi-town!!!

[@AnnaLauraBrownHealthCoach]

The bus ticket thing and the do you have a $1 scams are common in Salt Lake City and other cities I've been to as well.

[@DCMook]

Def. Common in salt lake

[@truediva18]

If someone is asking you to buy candy to support their team and there is no sign or uniform, don't do it. If someone hands you a CD of their music, don't take it because they will then hound you for money. There are fake homeless people downtown as well. I had someone ask me for money and then I saw drive off in a Lexus two blocks away. Families, keep your kids with you at all times. Don't let them run away from you. The sidewalks are not their playground. This is a great way to attack them or use them to attack you. Plus, it makes you look bad to the locals. Don't be afraid to ask for directions, but expect several routes to be given to you. Walk fast when going down Michigan or State. Walking slow annoys the locals. Plus, you are giving yourself away as a tourist. Go into the neighborhoods to really see the city. Depending on what you are looking for, you can hit neighborhoods and get everything you need. You are looking for a late millienial vibe, go to Wicker Park or Bucktown. There are tons of overpriced shops and eateries. If you want to try new beers and stuff, go to Ravenswood. Cool art with a Latin twist, go to Pilsen. Want to learn more about Black History, go to Bronzeville and Hyde Park. The Obama kissing rock on 53rd street in Hyde Park.

[@awalton9024]

When the Sears tower was just barely completed my dad took me there and we got on the elevator and went to the unfinished floor just below the observation deck for free.

[@MrComradeKaizer]

Just came back from a business trip in Chicago. First time there. Loved it. Fortunately, I did not fell in those traps.

[@taratarat5818]

Because, those so called traps doesn't exist in Chicago, smh. The video seems to based on assumptions?? Glad you enjoyed 🙂

[@your_royal_highness]

You want to go across the river (north) if you are staying in the loop. Rush street etc.

[@gordonwoodman4536]

I lived on Rush St. Rush and Division St. Great Bar scene, very friendly place.

[@tswan62]

The children's museum at navy pier is absolutely something local families visit

[@Luv2tickt]

The one appetizer you should NOT ever skip is the calamari at Lou Malnati's! My wife and I will go, order a small deep dish with the calamari app. The dipping sauce is excellent for one and the calamari is excellent as well. Also, we end up with leftovers that we can both have for lunch the next day. So that is one people should not skip!

[@cowser67]

Yeah if you low on time in Chicago, skip Navy Pier for sure. It’s cool but too touristy and once you go once you don’t really need to go back.

[@route2070]

With taxis, make sure they turn the meters on. I had a guy I used last minute as I was walking and got cold, and he got me into his cab. He never turned the meter on, and charged me probably double what he should have.

[@MsFabDee]

Thank you for this😊

[@cocoaorange1]

Many people now live downtown. Many former businesses are being turned into apartments. You can imagine how expensive they are?

[@Chicago48]

You can always take that extra appetizer as a "takeout" back to the hotel to eat. The taxis in Chicago are wonderful and I prefer it to the Lyfts. I can see the meter running, I know the path they're taking. And sometimes you get good conversation. When ladies leave their hotels to go shopping, take a waist belt-type purse or a purse you can crossbody.

[@Alverant]

Thanks. I'm going downtown to a sci-fi convention in February. Problem is there's not many good restaurants near the hotel. The hotel is next to a residential neighborhood so I feel a little safer to walk, but it's still winter.

[@thethreatwrestling.7053]

I visited Chicago in last April. I do believe the biggest concern is the parking spots which are very expensive. The City of Chicago for eating and other attractions are kinda affordable overall. I'm not familiar with the cost of living as resident in the city.

[@user-xe1zw7fl7l]

Honestly, living in the city is about equal to a lot of the suburbs these days cost-wise. My folks rent a 3 br town house in the burbs for the same rent we pay for a 3 br huge apt in the city (~2k/mo). The costs add up with gas, groceries, city stickers for cars, and going out in Chicago, but worth it IMO

[@orion3706]

About the taxis, if you tell them you're from out of town, it may "take longer" to get you to your destination. I found that out the hard way.

[@filippodomenicoquarta5885]

Nice video thanks for your information. I would like to ask a question were can sleep we're coming this Christmas

[@SuperSlimshady1]

4:51 ima local & I grew up in Navy Pier all the time it is very touristy tho and fun activities and fun conventions all the time up stairs in the convention room like the Christmas festival amazing memories

[@mrn13]

I would extend to say that asking if the taxi takes credit cards is a universal advice...

[@jeffburdick869]

I simply don't pay. I generally have no cash on me and often don't carry my debit card. So credit card is my only way of paying and its specifically stated that they take credit cards. So I tell them I have no way of paying and begin to simply leave. What are they going to do? Often their credit card machine magically starts working again when I tell them that.

[@bronxsportsfan]

Also, make sure you're at the right station. If you're at Union Station and someone asks for a ticket (or a buck for a ticket) to Milwaukee, acceptable. If it's at any other station in Chicago, it's likely a scam.

[@stephenr115]

Have you watched all about Saul and classic neighborhood bar scams. One of best series out there

[@craiglucas7782]

You can go up the Sears Tower for ‘free’ if you go to the bar/restaurant.

[@cassiamaneschy1030]

Is it safe to take a taxi from the O'Hare airport to downtown?

[@aasim8]

The same scam I hear is at Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York. Scammers will say I need money for a bus to some destination.

[@mrpankau]

My hidden gems of Chicago shortlist: Clark Street in Lincoln Park Wicker Park/Bucktown Belmont Harbor/LSD Bike trail Paulina Street in Lakeview Argyle Ave in Uptown Pilsen Bridgeport Chinatown South Loop Polish area (Northwest side neighborhoods) Little Italy The Purple Pig Forno Rosso pizzeria Irish Southside - Beverly area Smoque BBQ Muslim area of Albany Park Old Irving Park Little Village

[@stevenkelly685]

As someone who lives in Chicago and clicked this out of curiosity, just want to confirm and say Navy Pier is not worth checking out at all. The only perk of that place is that you can walk around with an open container, seriously. Other than that, it is a Ferris wheel and tacky tourist stores.

[@jmh086]

i appreciate this so much. going to chicago next month. first timer

[@chicagoboy8160]

There are some great Hotels in Lake View and a Great retro Motel in Andersonville -Edgewater Neighborhood right off of Peterson Ave

[@theodorecleaver]

Don't forget to go to Rainbow Cone at Navy Pier!

[@jayeff4021]

This guy uses old footage (Ford/Oriental Theater hasn’t been called that for years), Ditka’s in River North is closed, and contrary this dudes lousy taste buds, Malort is delicious. Chicago Handshake baby

[@hotrod5611]

I am local and I went to Navy Pier but as a little kid, especially in 4th of July which I liked but that memory is now faint

[@ellengill360]

Ellen Gill 0 seconds ago I lived downtown for years and a lot of people do. Lots of condo buildings. Never been asked to buy someone a bus ticket. A lot of homeless people really do need the dollar. Navy Pier is great. Shakespeare Theater is there. I always take friends and relatives who come in to the pier to go on the Sea Dog or the Windy or see a show. Never disappointed. You can just take a walk too. Great views. Just don't eat on Navy Pier. There are better restaurants on North Clark.

[@steveeuphrates-river7342]

Thank you for calling it Sears Tower

[@Fercho01]

🤔 Trying to find a balance here. I agree with most of the tips here. However, there are things you must do when visiting Chicago and they happen to be downtown: Architecture Tour (Chicago Architecture Foundation), by River and/or by foot. Must do it. Millennium Park (have you actually been to Chicago if you haven’t seen the Bean?). The Lake! Chicago is the Lake! Rent a bike and get on the bike trail by the lake. You’re welcome. Yes, the neighborhoods are cool but you can’t miss a few of the “traps” in downtown Chicago. Great video!!

[@jeffrey7737]

He already mentioned what you mentioned in videos from years ago

[@BlueHeron654]

Using a debit card in a cab. They take your pin and give back another card. Heard it happen to two friends in Toronto. Avoid cabs parked by Union Station.

[@woltersworld]

That sucks

[@jeffrey7737]

The machine is near you in the back seat......you can swipe your card there you can even tap your card if your card has that feature

[@cijmo]

Is Malort just anisette / ouzo / raki / sambuca / absinthe?

[@WeggieQueen2005]

I'm from Chicago and the Sears Tower is a great place to get the views.

[@cocoaorange1]

I am a native Chicagoan and love Navy Pier, but you do have to be careful at night. I always keep a few dollars in my pocket , in case a beggar ask. They might really be hungry, or do not have fare to get home. But do not open your purse or wallet. That is just dumb.

[@NickWojcicki]

Simple pro tip: Always tell the beggars you don't have cash on you. 99% of the time they'll leave you alone immediately after that.

[@LetsRideIllinois]

Yup this is what I do.

[@rmawn55]

Ditka's went out of business. Best steak is at Harry Carry's Italian Streakhouse.

[@hayskeys]

As a local Chicagoan, these are good tips - especially the tip on staying nights in the neighborhoods. Except for the disdain for Malort of course ;)

[@perrywilliams2464]

Is Chicago relatively safe as long as you stay in the tourist areas?

[@jeffreysmith85]

With all the condo building, they are more people downtown then 30 years ago. Feed them have and extra sandwich or water

[@thekidfromiowa]

In 2008, I went to Navy Pier and saw a deaf woman (who may not have actually been deaf) selling little booklets about sign language.

[@bordaz1]

Mark, I've watched a lot of your videos, am originally from Chicago, and have spent a lot of time downtown. IMO, panhandlers are more proactive in downtown Chicago than any other American city i've visited or lived in (actually, Indianapolis would be in 2nd place for me)...even cities with larger transient populations than Chicago, like LA and Portland. But, I know you've traveled many more places than I have. What's your take on this?

[@woltersworld]

Oh I can see that. Saw a lot more people living on the street in LA but almost no one asked for money. In Chicago it seemed to be 90% were asking and half were what I would consider a bit aggressive in their asking

[@ahp259]

Yeah I agree... Most aggressive panhandlers--almost feels like they are robbing you.

[@taratarat5818]

I agree Ben! Seems like bs to make the city seem worse than the violence that's been going on. I work in the city (DWNTWN area). I've never encountered an aggressive homeless person. Perhaps they have the homeless misconstrued? I see it everyday!!! Literally!!!!

[@mitchgawlik1175]

Good video, good and important tips. Chicago used to be a breeze and fun to walk around, 2020 pretty much brought that to a halt. Keep your eyes open, don't avert your eyes if you feel uncomfortable as someone is walking in your direction. Act like you belong here. Chicago's downtown area is for tourists. Politicians and business owners know that. Tourists have money and generally aren't going to quibble about things. Getting a hotel room? Pick one north of the Chicago river. In the evenings you have more access to clubs and restaurants.

[@jeffburdick869]

2020 brought the entire World to a halt. Nasty global pandemics change things.

[@jeffburdick869]

@@mitchgawlik1175 Oh goodness. You mean the protests from two summers ago? After a man was blatantly executed by a cop in broad daylight with a bunch of people watching and cameras rolling. The protests were to be expected and were not a big deal. They happened all over the country. The RW media tried to turn it into something it wasn't. Yeah, a bunch of dumb teens thought it'd be cool to have a party in the park. Any time you've teens, alcohol, and firearms, theres a risk that something bad can happen. Since it happened, the curfew was imposed and CPD checks the area to make sure its not happening again.

[@jeffburdick869]

@@mitchgawlik1175 uh, no. The protests were not a big deal. The fact that the media even tried to call them "riots" was a complete joke. Yes, I live in the city of Chicago. Are you just trolling? Because it certainly seems like it. What? A few windows were broke?. A few stores were looted? Have you ever lived elsewhere in the World? And seen first hand what actual riots really look like? The thing in Grant Park was just a bunch of teenagers making a makeshift party. And when you combine teenage hormones with alcohol and easy access to firearms...to a party with like 1000 people...its not surprising that some violence took place. Some guy was probably hitting on some other guy's girlfriend or something and tension rose and the next thing you know, there are shots fired. Its a sad reality, but it happens all over America.

[@truediva18]

Do not drive downtown! Parking is way too expensive and traffic can be annoying. Utilize the public transportation, Lyft, or Uber. There are Divvy bikes you can rent as well. Don't stay in downtown Chicago and not expect to be hounded by homeless people for money. You will see them on a regular basis on State Street and Michigan Avenue. Navy Pier is a huge trap. It costs way too much money. Pickpockets love north Michigan Avenue between the river and 900 north. Don't walk in large groups and block the sidewalk. Never get on a crowded bus. Leave your phone in your pocket-don't text and walk. You are asking to get robbed. Don't block the sidewalk to take pictures. Stand off to the side and do that. You are annoying the people who are walking to work or trying to get home.

[@MrBlindedanger]

If you drive and are looking for parking download spot hero. The greatest. There are people are who rent out their parking spaces for a small fee. Or places where you can get it for much cheaper

[@brian_abn]

going to evanston for the Ohio State - northwestern game in november. is evanston safe?

[@joan7282001]

yes

[@maryjohnson753]

You'll be fine. Evanston is safer than downtown Chicago. It's about 8 miles north. There are certain streets on the outskirts of it that are not safe. You will notice the homes not upkept.

[@brian_abn]

@@maryjohnson753 thanks, i appreciate the info. looking forward to walking around, and checking out the pre-game atmosphere. there's a giordano's in columbus (i liked it), so i want to hit up a lou malnati's while i'm there, to compare.

[@maryjohnson753]

@@brian_abn The closet Giordano's is in Morton Grove (safe suburb west of Evanston) & Lou Malnati's is in Lincolnwood (safe suburb west of Evanston) Both suburbs are safe, just no public transportation from Evanston. You'll have to uber it.

[@maryjohnson753]

Chicago has many different types of pizza. Not all pizza restaurants offer all types. Super thin (wafer like), normal thin crust, pan pie crust, and stuffed. Each is so different.

[@tobiojo9454]

Awesome video

[@paulleske415]

I lived in the city for many years and there's not much I miss about it except the food. Chicago food is excellent, especially Jay's Italian Beef. It's the crime, traffic, pollution, and traffic I don't miss at all. When I left in 2007 the Malört craze was not in full swing yet. I had maybe tried it but it wasn't really a "thing" yet. It leaves a taste in your mouth as bitter as the city itself. Navy Pier has always been a tourist trap since the day it was redeveloped. Sometimes we'd have to bring out-of-town company and I thought the Ferris wheel was cool. It's a good place to avoid unless you want to part with your money. I would always bring company to the John Hancock observatory as the view was better than from the Sears Tower. No one calls it Willis Tower but it is fun to call it the "Big Willy". I'm so glad I left the city and state. Go Packers!

[@stephenr115]

My rule is ignore beggers

[@aidenpearce4409]

Willis/Sears tower tourist trap is similiar to Seattle's Space Needle. Views are great but paying 40 bucks to go up, lol not really worth it

[@TheFibtastic]

Deep Dish pizza is Tourist Pizza. Nobody here eats that crap regularly.

[@OscarM.94]

@8:15 The Hat good food🔥🔥🔥

[@stephenr115]

The Berghoff is a must while not what it used to be, I still have a bottle of their special bourbon that would be bought by Herman when first made and had it bottled. Cheeseburger Cheeseburger isn’t really a tourist trap. The Drake a great place if you want to spend the money. Neighborhood bars and up north great. Great Greek food.

[@woltersworld]

Used to go to berghoff with my mom every time we visited :)

[@stephenr115]

@@woltersworld still worried on getting return Covid test as we come from London and will go to Frankfort the day before arriving 7 pm then will stay at Cloud hotel past security and plane leaves next day 1045 am on a Sunday. Get it in London the morning before we get on train back to Germany? Wait unti early day of flight? I’m worried please help out this person from your hometown of Quincy!

[@thehapagirl92]

2:38 Homeless people everywhere. At skid row in LA they might kill you if you ignore them

[@billfuhry2112]

If you see the street preacher with the microphone on State and Washington and he tells you his favorite line: "you goin' to hell," -- don't worry, we'll all be there to join you.

[@alfredobanda]

Another scam in Chicago is the rent 😂

[@tb6133]

Look at rent in NY, Chicago is nothing

[@lbrown9570]

Amen!

[@etherdog]

Derek from Means to Travel featured on a Malort scam! Pure gold!

[@cassidyrappaport7588]

Big fan of your videos and Chicagoan here. Are you local or just travel here a lot?!