How Safe Is Rockford, Illinois For A First Time Visitor?

On the surface, Rockford seems like a pretty decent city to explore.  The fact that we even have to ask how safe this town is makes me very sad.

I've lived in Rockford my entire life and don't think I have ever told my out-of-town friends not to visit.  More times than not I just say come for the weekend because there's so much more to do and see than during the work week - like City Market!

Of course, crime happens all around the city of Rockford.  We see it all over the news and even more from Rockford Scanner on Facebook.

This got me thinking... how safe is Rockford if a first timer came to visit without knowing the pros and cons of the city?

How Safe Is Rockford, Illinois For A First Time Visitor?

According to TravelSafe, they say the overall risk of traveling to Rockford is HIGH.

There's a high risk here. The city is among the top 20 most dangerous in the country. With such a large population, you can't even claim numbers are skewed to show it as worse than it is. - TravelSafe

 

TravelSafe gives a very detailed breakdown on the dangers around the Rockford area.

One of the warnings is using taxis or city buses in town.  Obviously, if you're getting in a vehicle with other strangers, there's definitely a risk that something could happen.  I guess there's medium risk in Rockford, so that's not bad!

If you aren't in your own car, there's a medium risk just because of the random crime happening here. - TravelSafe

 

They also talk about terrorism, natural disasters, mugging situations, scams, and being a woman traveling alone to the forest city.  Enough of the negative, let's talk positive!

Where are the SAFEST places to visit when you come to Rockford?  The Anderson Japanese Gardens, Nicholas Conservatory, and the dock at Prairie Street are always at the top of the list.  All of these make Rockford so much more beautiful and worth visiting!

So, I honestly think it just depends on where you frequent when you come to Rockford.  If your intentions are good and you mind your business when you're here, you have a higher chance of staying safe.  If you want an overall answer, TravelSafe says Rockford isn't safe, but it's really trying.  Do you agree?