Over the last few years, more women have preferred traveling alone, choosing destinations, and planning their budgets and transport on their own. The best emotions and memories are by those who can plan their trips well.
No matter your age or interests, there is never a dull moment in Chicago. The city is great for travelers from all continents because it boasts a lovely lakefront shoreline and well-liked parks. It is a wonderful city to see and visit. The city is well-known for its architecture, music, and, of course, deep-dish pizza.
It is challenging to choose the ideal spot for a rest. So traveling by car will help you experience as many places as possible.
How to Travel Safely and Have Fun on a Solo Vacation
The “Windy City” can blow you away if you adhere to this useful advice when traveling with a car rental.
Organize everything beforehand
Save an offline map on your phone. In addition to the building projects going on, Chicago boasts streets with multiple levels. Downloading a map can help your phone to maintain a steady GPS connection regardless of any dead network zones you may be in. Citymapper or Transit: Real Time Transit is an excellent choice if you are seeking the best available apps.
Driving in cities is more chaotic, so be ready for some impatient drivers. If you intend to drive around the city or take a taxi, you must give yourself enough time to account for the unavoidable traffic.
Numerous locations close on Mondays, though not all. For many small firms, the same holds. This widespread approach has a nearly entirely financial justification because Monday is typically the week’s slowest day. So, check the hours of any sites and locations you intend to visit if Monday happens to be one of your Chicago travel days.
Plan for your airport transportation, such as car rental. Cycling in the city is an excellent option to avoid traffic jams and crowded public transport. While some city areas are more walkable (such as Lakeview, West Town, or Near North Side neighborhoods) and near a public transportation stop, others are best served by owning a car (such as South Loop, West Loop, or Bucktown neighborhoods). So car rental is the best option in any case.
Take care of health and comfort
Check the Covid requirements before visiting Chicago. Wearing mask regulations and evidence of vaccination may sometimes be required for select or all establishments. Verify any rules that may be in effect before your visit, and then pack your travel bag accordingly.
With a six-month winter and a short but scorching summer, it is critical to examine the weather at any time of year. Additionally, the weather is very unpredictable during the day, with sudden temperature drops and frequent downpours. So be ready for the wind, even if the prediction seems good.
Skip the tourist traps. In a lot of places, Chicago pizza will be an option. Try pepperoni, mushrooms, or green peppers as a filling. Also, you should visit at least one of these pizza locations: Giordano’s, Ricobene’s, or Pequod’s Pizza. In terms of food hygiene, eating in Chicago is enjoyable. Go where the locals go.
Use sturdy walking shoes. You will need good walking shoes to explore the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and museums.
Save your money where it is possible
Utilize the free events and attractions. Verify any discounts for museums. Museums occasionally offer free admission days, so keep an eye on them. You should use the L train system while traveling between Chicago’s numerous neighborhoods.
Visit Chicago’s waterfronts if you can. In addition to the lovely downtown, do not forget about the city’s waterfronts. Stroll the Riverwalk along the Chicago River for scenic vistas, or join an architecture river cruise.
Before your trip, be informed of any critical holidays or local events. Chicago’s public holidays are comparable to those observed across the country. These periods see more traffic in the city’s heart, making it challenging to visit several sights. Also, pay close attention to any activity taking place at Grant Park.
Carry a water bottle; as the tap water is safe to drink here, bring one along to save money and lessen plastic use.
By traveling off-season, you may be guaranteed to get the best airfare deals, accommodation deals, and crowd-free travel. Consider visiting Chicago between late March and early June or late August and November.
Take precautions to ensure your safety
Limit your walking to main thoroughfares and crowded locations. While you should avoid busy roads and congested locations during the day, remember to avoid poorly lighted roads at night. Try to spend more time in safer areas of the city, such as Forest Glen, Lincoln Park, Lake View, Norwood Park, or Edison Park.
Also, try not to explore the city excessively. You will attract attention if you get lost. Inform others about your destination. It might be members of your family, close friends, or even the hotel staff. Try to take a tour or join a group if you can. Also, remember to keep your valuables hidden.
In the end, Chicago is still a significant city. No matter your age, Chicago is a place where your ideal vacation becomes a reality.
