re: Areas to avoid in Chicago?

I'd stay in the West Garfield Park area and at all costs avoid the Wrigleyvill area. As far as the Southside is concerned,if you aren't a fan of history, then yes, avoid the Southside. But if the first Heisman or a museum of science and industry or the midway or the Pullman district or University of Chicago(Big Bertha, A-Bomb, Einstein) fancy your interest. By all means enjoy the Southside.