Chicago, like many other cities, can be chaotic. Places with overbearing, tall towers and crowded, bustling sidewalks were not designed to be serene. I mean, we built an expressway along one of the most peaceful slices of real estate we have—the lakefront.

Alas, there are little safe spaces, quiet corners, and secret spots tucked away. We all need a moment to breathe, or cry, sometimes—and this list should help those who are looking for a place their hectic life on pause.

Connect with nature, escape in a stack of books, or keep out of sight in a dark theater. Weepers, criers, and anyone out of sorts are welcome—its okay to be down. What other urban places do you visit to gain perspective? Here are spots where New York, Boston, San Francisco, D.C., Philly, Detroit, and Seattle criers find particularly comforting.