That’s almost what happened to me! The first time (early 90s), I was trying to go to an Edgar Allen Poe site (from the Inner Harbor area). It was past downtown and the stadium, but no one had warned me... All of a sudden, I was in the worst bombed-out scary area.
Having grown up in a city (and spending a little bit of time in Oakland, NYC, so on), I knew to not show fear and just keep walking. I actually didn’t even see any people, but felt eyes on me... So I made it and some guardian angels (a young couple about my age, but they had a car) rescued me. The site wasn’t even open that day — maybe they were scared too.
Then, a couple of years ago, I foolishly took the light rail from the airport to downtown.... I really thought I’d be murdered or at least mugged. I have never been so happy to arrive downtown and see all the sports-goers. I walked to the Marriott from there, and all was fine.
I’m not a paranoid or nervous person typically, but these two times were about the most fear I’ve ever been in in a city! I’m used to being on my own, and traveled throughout Mexico and South America. Never felt afraid down there, other than one creepy time in a Mexican bar (thank goodness with friends that time).
It just kills and saddens me that this glorious city — full of American history and monuments — is so frightening in spots.
And about Chicago — spent some time there (Marquette Park) in the 80s, but would be really afraid now. I don’t even like my husband flying through Midway :(
Shining cities turning into cesspools - - culture matters...