The gun question is a sticky one. You're correct in that most places (at least that I remember) have the no weapons sign on the door. Illinois also has a Firearm Owners ID system as well as their own concealed carry regulations. I encourage you to read up on Chicago handgun laws before bringing the weapon.btruj777 wrote:CMac86 wrote:
I appreciate your reply! I do have some Chicago questions. One important question for me is regarding safety. I am a gun carrier and I know that a lot of stores and the CTA do not allow for Guns. My question is, is it even worth owning a gun in Chicago? Is it more of a liability - meaning I accidentally forget I have it on me and go on the L and get caught and get in trouble? Is my house my the only safe place for my gun - it seems this way?
Another questions involves grocery shopping in Hyde park. I am from Miami and being without a car in Miami is impossible. But in Chicago its much more doable. I plan to not have a car in Chicago and plan to live in Hyde park. How easy is it to do groceries in Hyde park? Is there a Whole Foods there or equivalent ?
Hyde Park has built up a bit since I left. I remember there being a Treasure Island (grocery store), and then I think a Target and Whole Foods went up as well. Peapod is also an option, albeit pretty expensive. There are corner/neighborhood stores in the area as well. I used to stop at Harper Foods on my way to work to grab a Redbull and protein bar (closer to a 7/11 than a Whole Foods).
Chicago is very public transit friendly, but my biggest gripe about working in Hyde Park is that it was a bit of trip to get anywhere. When work events ended after rush-hour I could count on at least a 15-20min wait for a bus to get me back to the Loop. I don't know if U of C gives out the CTA U-Pass for Law students. There is at least one Metra station near campus as well. That is a separate ticketing system from the L and busses. If you're planning on getting out of Hyde Park, I'd budget at least 20-30mins to get to the Loop, and additional time if you want to explore north of the Loop.
If you want the conveince of a car without having to actually own one, ZipCar has a fairly significant presence in the area. Prior to enlisting, I used ZipCar for short errands across the city.