I use sidewalks from time to time. There is one that is ambiguous on whether it is a bike path or sidewalk, with very few pedestrians.
One thing that I'll do from time to time is to cut down the left side of a 4 lane road that I'm only planning to take for 1/2 block before stopping at a store on the left side.
In another place, I find it convenient to move away from a busy intersection and it is easier to cross 1/2 block further East. Or, at another, I have troubles crossing at a stop sign, but can generally cross at a traffic light one block away.
Just keep in mind the limitations of sidewalk riding including a lack of visibility at intersections and driveways. And, always be courteous to pedestrians.