thank you all for the thoughtful information, I am not sure of their common sense. They live in a lovely area and I don't think they get the potential dangers of gritty areas. I do know they are bent on checking out Cicero due to the old family connections, probably after dark since it gets dark early. I'll send them this info thanks again.

<Disagree about Cicero and Berwyn at night.>

Have to agree here, especially about Cicero. Parts of Cicero are not that good. I went to high school there (Morton East), and it now has metal detectors at all doors.

Common sense goes a long way.

FYI---there were incidents in broad daylight in Streeterville (off MI Ave near Northwestern University aka "safe neighborhood") where flash mobs mugged and robbed random people last summer.

Don't walk about on your cell phone chatting or texting no matter the time of day. Pedestrian v/s car is never a good situation.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Look on a map/GPS/online to familiarize yourself with where you are going. Know what bus or train you should take.

Chicago has many, many tourists. Just good 'ole common sense is the best way to play it safe.

I'm really surprised at the recommendation that Austin is "fine."

I grew up there and last time I was there - which, admittedly, has been a while - it wasn't anything near fine. Has it really changed that much?

Well, an update. The mother blames PC advice which they received. They did get into a bit of trouble while driving at night. Seems like a car full of men cut them off near Cicero Ave or whatever it is. The girl who was driving did some defensive driving but they were followed. Other than racial obscenities being yelled at them, threatening gestures and hurt egos they were ok as far as I know. They just have to learn that not everyone is their friend and I think they have learned now. They aren't speaking much about the trip.