Gary, Indiana, is right next to Chicago. It’s known for Michael Jackson and as one of the most burned up, blighted cities in the country. It’s held the title as the Murder Capitol of the U.S. in the past, and although its population has dwindled, I believe it still ranks right up there, as that figure is determined by murders per number of residents. So far this year there have been 31 murders in Gary. And it’s only about 23 miles from Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, where most of the city’s murder and violence take place.
I drove through Gary this past Saturday afternoon, down its main street, Broadway. I had my camera with me and decided to take some pictures on and around Broadway. I took about 30 minutes and for these photos didn’t leave my Jeep. By no means am I a professional photographer, and I missed some great opportunities, including a large pit bull in the back of a pick-up next to me that, to keep it from lunging at other drivers, was connected to a series of chains that resembled something from the Thunderdome in that Mad Max film. But here they are.
53rd and Broadway
Garage near 6th and Broadway
6th and Broadway. Gary Housing Authority.
Around 7th and Broadway
Old cars in a lot around 51st and Broadway
The re-opening of the famous Roy Boy’s tattoo shop at 3844 Broadway
Area of 21st and Broadway – Abandoned Home
53rd and Broadway. Earlier in July Gary’s 29th murder took place outside here where the manager of the place was shot in the head.
6th and Broadway. Folks chilling across the street from the GHA.
The Dodgy 
This really captures a lot about Gary, Indiana—it’s a city with such a complicated history. I’ve spent time in downtown Gary, and it’s true, the architecture still echoes the city’s industrial heyday. Did you get a chance to visit the RailCats stadium? It’s such a unique spot to catch a game. Reading this made me wonder, what part of your visit surprised you the most? For me, it’s always the mix of abandoned grandeur and the signs of local resilience. Exploring places like Gary makes me think about what could come next for the city—it feels like it’s waiting for a revival.
It’s been awhile since I’ve explored there. I know they’ve gone through a few mayors since. I have been to the stadium and it’s cool. I wonder if any restaurants are succeeding next to the stadium. I know Chase bank has a presence there. Popular YouTuber Peter Santelleno was there not long ago and that was interesting. He could have probably spent more time there but it was cool.