Is Baltimore Safe? Surprising Crime Drop Amid Urban Myths

Ah, Baltimore - a city of contrasts that sparks heated debates about safety faster than you can say "crab cakes and football." My parents? They'd sooner send me to Mars than let me wander the streets of Charm City. The internet? A mixed bag of "it's perfectly safe if you're street smart" and "don't even think about it." So which is it? Is Baltimore the next tourist hot spot or a place best viewed from the safety of your TV screen?

Well, my wife Sarah and I decided to find out for ourselves. As a pair of recently married, middle-aged remote workers from Florida with a passion for food and a penchant for safety, we spent a week exploring Baltimore's nooks and crannies. Our mission? To share how we assessed Baltimore's safety and give you the honest scoop on our experiences.

I'm going to let you in on our process for determining if Baltimore felt safe for us, and then I'll spill the beans on our week-long adventure. Buckle up, because this ride through Charm City might just surprise you!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and headed to the land of Old Bay seasoning, we did our homework. Here's how we sized up Baltimore's safety situation:

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First things first - we always check the U.S. Department of State travel advisories. They use a 1-4 rating system:

1 = Exercise normal precautions (white)2 = Exercise increased caution (yellow)3 = Reconsider travel (orange)4 = Do not travel (red)

We typically stick to destinations rated 1 or 2. Now, here's where it gets interesting. The U.S. Department of State doesn't have a specific advisory for Baltimore. Instead, it's lumped in with the general Maryland advisory, which is Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions.

But hold your horses! This doesn't mean you should throw caution to the wind. The advisory does mention exercising increased caution in some areas of Baltimore due to crime. It's like your mom telling you to have fun at the party but reminding you to watch your drink - sage advice for any situation, really.

State Department Check: PASS (with a side of caution)

02- Latest News

Next up, we dug into recent news about Baltimore. We weren't looking for sensationalized headlines, but rather solid information about the city's current state.

One piece of good news? The Baltimore Police Department reported a 20% reduction in violent crime since 2017. That's like finding out your favorite restaurant not only improved their menu but also lowered their prices - a win-win!

However, it's not all sunshine and blue crabs. Recent news highlighted ongoing challenges, like a string of burglaries in Canton and a shooting incident in North Baltimore. It's a reminder that, like any big city, Baltimore has its share of crime issues.

On the flip side, we were intrigued by positive developments like the free "Project Lifesaver" program to help locate individuals with cognitive impairments. It's heartening to see initiatives focused on community safety.

Current News Check: CAUTION (but with signs of improvement)

03- Community Forums

Lastly, we dove into the world of online travel communities. Because let's face it, sometimes the best advice comes from fellow travelers who've been there, done that, and bought the "I ♥ Baltimore" t-shirt.

On TripAdvisor, we found a mix of opinions. One user, TravelBug92, shared: "Baltimore surprised me with its charm and safety. The tourist areas felt secure and welcoming." That's the kind of review that makes you go, "Hmm, maybe this won't be so bad after all."

Over on Reddit, we stumbled upon a gem from user CityExplorer: "Baltimore's neighborhoods each have their own character. Do your research and you'll find plenty of safe, interesting areas to explore." Now that's the kind of insider info we live for!

But it wasn't all positive. We did see some cautionary tales, particularly about being aware of your surroundings at night and in less touristy areas. It's like when your friend tells you about that great new bar, but warns you not to order the mystery shot - you appreciate the heads up.

Community Forum Check: PASS (with a healthy dose of street smarts required)

First Hand Experience in Baltimore

Armed with our research and a healthy mix of excitement and caution, Sarah and I set out to explore Baltimore. Here's the lowdown on our adventures in some of Charm City's most notable neighborhoods:

01- Inner Harbor

Ah, the Inner Harbor - Baltimore's crown jewel and tourist central. This bustling waterfront area is like the popular kid in school - everyone knows it, and it's got a reputation to maintain.

Sarah and I felt completely at ease strolling along the promenade, both during the day and at night. The area was well-lit, with a visible police presence that was reassuring without being overwhelming. It's like having a responsible chaperone at a school dance - there if you need them, but not cramping your style.

We couldn't resist visiting the National Aquarium, where we got up close and personal with some seriously cool marine life. The crowd was a mix of excited kids, curious adults, and the occasional fish pun enthusiast (guilty as charged).

For dinner, we hit up Phillips Seafood. Now, I know what you're thinking - "tourist trap!" But let me tell you, those crab cakes were no joke. We felt safe and relaxed enjoying our meal on the patio, watching the harbor lights twinkle as the sun set.

One thing to note - like any popular tourist area, keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpockets love a distracted tourist almost as much as I love a good crab cake.

Is Inner Harbor Safe? YES (but keep your street smarts about you)

02- Fells Point

Next up on our Baltimore adventure - Fells Point. This historic waterfront neighborhood is like that cool, slightly edgy friend who knows all the best bars but also appreciates a good book.

During the day, we wandered the cobblestone streets, popping into quirky shops and admiring the 18th-century architecture. The vibe was relaxed and welcoming, with a mix of tourists and locals going about their day.

As night fell, Fells Point transformed into a lively hub of bars and restaurants. We grabbed dinner at Bertha's Mussels (yes, we got the mussels - when in Rome, right?), then hit up a few bars along Thames Street. The atmosphere was energetic but not rowdy, and we felt comfortable walking between venues.

One night, we chatted with a local couple at The Horse You Came In On Saloon (allegedly Edgar Allan Poe's last stop before his mysterious death - spooky!). They shared some great tips about the area and reassured us that while Fells Point is generally safe, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.

Is Fells Point Safe? YES (but keep your wits about you after dark)

03- Federal Hill

Federal Hill feels like that friend who's equally comfortable at a fancy wine tasting or a rowdy sports bar - versatile and full of surprises.

We started our exploration with a visit to Federal Hill Park. The views of the Inner Harbor and city skyline were breathtaking, and we felt perfectly safe strolling around, even with camera equipment in tow. Pro tip: it's a great spot for a picnic if you're into that sort of thing (which we definitely are).

The neighborhood itself was a pleasant mix of residential areas and commercial strips. We enjoyed browsing the shops along Light Street and grabbed lunch at the Cross Street Market. The market was bustling but not overwhelming, and we felt comfortable the whole time.

As die-hard sports fans (go Dolphins!), we couldn't resist checking out the game-day atmosphere near M&T Bank Stadium. Even with the crowds, the police presence was noticeable and reassuring. Just remember, if you're wearing the visiting team's colors, you might get some playful ribbing - all in good fun, of course!

Is Federal Hill Safe? YES (and it's a great spot for sports fans)

04- Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is like that sophisticated friend who always knows the best museums and can pair wine with anything - classy, cultured, and full of surprises.

We spent a delightful afternoon exploring the Mount Vernon Cultural District, home to numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites. The George Peabody Library, in particular, was a feast for the eyes (and the 'gram). We felt completely at ease wandering the streets, admiring the 19th-century architecture.

For dinner, we tried The Helmand, an Afghan restaurant that came highly recommended. The food was fantastic, and the walk back to our hotel in the evening was pleasant and uneventful. The streets were well-lit, and there were plenty of people around, creating a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.

One afternoon, Sarah worked from our hotel while I explored solo. I visited the Walters Art Museum and felt perfectly comfortable on my own. The area around the museum was busy with a mix of tourists, students, and locals, adding to the sense of security.

Is Mount Vernon Safe? YES (and it's a cultural gem)

05- Canton

Canton is like that friend who's always up for a waterfront jog followed by brunch - active, trendy, and always Instagram-ready.

We kicked off our Canton adventure with a morning walk in Canton Waterfront Park. The park was busy with joggers, dog walkers, and families, creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere. The views of the harbor were stunning, and we even saw a few kayakers braving the morning chill.

For lunch, we hit up O'Donnell Square, the neighborhood's main hub. The square was lively but not crowded, with a good mix of local eateries and shops. We felt perfectly safe strolling around, window shopping, and people-watching.

One evening, we joined a group food tour of the area. Our guide, a Canton resident, shared some great insights about the neighborhood's history and development. She also gave us some practical safety tips, like sticking to well-lit streets at night and being aware of our surroundings - solid advice for any urban area.

Is Canton Safe? YES (and it's a great spot for foodies and fitness enthusiasts)

06- Hampden

Hampden is that quirky friend who rocks vintage clothes and knows all the best indie bands - eclectic, artsy, and utterly charming.

We spent a delightful day exploring The Avenue (36th Street), Hampden's main drag. The street was lined with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, each more Instagram-worthy than the last. We felt completely at ease browsing the stores and chatting with the friendly shop owners.

For lunch, we couldn't resist trying Cafe Hon, famous for its kitsch decor and comfort food. The big pink flamingo out front is hard to miss! The restaurant was busy but not overcrowded, and we felt safe and relaxed throughout our meal.

As the sun set, we noticed the neighborhood taking on a different character. While still lively, the crowd seemed to shift more towards locals heading to bars and restaurants. We didn't feel unsafe, but as with any area, it's wise to stay alert after dark.

Is Hampden Safe? YES (and it's a haven for vintage lovers and foodies)

07- Charles Village

Charles Village is like that friend who's always got their nose in a book but also knows how to party - intellectual, diverse, and full of youthful energy.

Home to Johns Hopkins University, Charles Village has a distinct college town vibe. We spent an afternoon wandering the campus and surrounding streets, admiring the colorful rowhouses known as "Painted Ladies." The area felt safe and welcoming, with a mix of students, families, and professionals going about their day.

We grabbed coffee at Bird in Hand, a charming bookstore cafe co-owned by Spike Gjerde (a name we'd come to associate with great food in Baltimore). The place was buzzing with students and locals, creating a lively but comfortable atmosphere.

As evening approached, we noticed an increased security presence around the campus. While this might seem concerning at first, we learned it's a standard measure to ensure student safety. It actually made us feel more secure as we explored the area after dark.

Is Charles Village Safe? YES (but stay aware, especially at night)

Baltimore by Foot

Now, let's talk about hoofing it around Charm City. Sarah and I are big fans of exploring on foot - it's the best way to stumble upon those hidden gems that make a city unique. Plus, it helps balance out all the crab cakes and local brews we inevitably indulge in.

Overall, we felt comfortable walking in most areas we visited, especially during the day. The Inner Harbor promenade was particularly pleasant, with wide paths and plenty of other people around. We even took a couple of evening strolls along the water, enjoying the city lights reflecting off the harbor.

In neighborhoods like Fells Point, Federal Hill, and Canton, we found the streets easy to navigate and generally well-maintained. During the day, these areas were bustling with locals and tourists alike, adding to the sense of safety.

However, like any city, there were times when we opted for other transportation options. Late at night, especially in less familiar areas, we chose to use ride-sharing services. It's not that we felt unsafe, per se, but why take unnecessary risks when you're in unfamiliar territory?

One thing to note - Baltimore's neighborhoods can change character quite quickly. We occasionally found ourselves in areas that felt less welcoming, usually when we strayed off the main streets. Nothing happened, but our spidey senses tingled enough to make us turn around and head back to more populated areas.

Our top tips for walking in Baltimore:

• Stick to well-lit, populated streets, especially at night
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
• Keep valuables out of sight - no need to tempt fate
• If you're unsure about an area, don't hesitate to turn around or call a ride

Baltimore by Uber

When our feet got tired or the hour got late, we turned to Uber for getting around Baltimore. And let me tell you, it was a smooth ride (pun intended).

We found the Uber service in Baltimore to be reliable and felt safe using it. The drivers were friendly and often eager to share their local knowledge - it's like having a tour guide and chauffeur rolled into one!

Here's where we chose to Uber instead of walk:

• To and from the airport (because navigating public transport with luggage is no one's idea of fun)
• Late night returns to our hotel (better safe than sorry, right?)
• When exploring areas further from the city center, like Hampden
• During a particularly nasty rainstorm (turns out, Baltimore weather can be as unpredictable as a game of Balderdash)

One particularly memorable Uber ride was with a driver named Mike, a Baltimore native who'd been driving for years. He regaled us with tales of the city's history and even gave us some off-the-beaten-path food recommendations. It's moments like these that really make a trip special.

Is Uber Safe in Baltimore? YES (and it's a great way to get insider tips)

Final Thoughts

So, is Baltimore safe? Well, like that friend who's a bit rough around the edges but has a heart of gold, Baltimore has its challenges but also its charms.

In our week-long adventure, we found that with a bit of common sense and street smarts, Baltimore can be a safe and incredibly rewarding city to explore. The tourist areas, in particular, felt secure and welcoming. We walked away with full bellies, camera rolls bursting with photos, and a newfound appreciation for this resilient city.

Here's our safety cheat sheet for future Baltimore explorers:

• Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night
• Use ride-sharing services for late-night travel or when venturing to unfamiliar areas
• Keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings
• Trust your instincts - if something feels off, it probably is
• Take advantage of free resources like the Charm City Circulator for safe, easy transportation
• Don't be afraid to chat with locals - they're often the best source of safety tips and hidden gems
• Check out the Baltimore Police Department Mobile App for real-time safety information

Remember, every city has its rough spots, and Baltimore is no exception. But don't let that stop you from experiencing the vibrant food scene, rich history, and genuine charm that this city has to offer.

Would we go back to Baltimore? In a heartbeat. There's still so much to explore, from the quirky American Visionary Art Museum to the historic ships in the Inner Harbor. Plus, we've got a list of crab shacks to try that's longer than the line at Boog's BBQ during an Orioles game.

Baltimore, like any urban destination, requires visitors to stay alert and make smart choices. But if you do, you'll find a city that's full of surprises, warmth, and yes, plenty of charm.

About Us

Hey there! We're Tobi and Sarah, a middle-aged couple from Florida who recently tied the knot and decided to turn our passion for travel into a full-time adventure. We're remote workers by day and intrepid explorers by... well, also day, and sometimes night when we're feeling particularly adventurous (or when there's a really good late-night food spot to check out).

Our goal is simple: to help everyone travel safer while uncovering the best food scenes around the world. We believe that with the right information and a dash of street smarts, anyone can have amazing travel experiences. Plus, we're firm believers that the best way to understand a culture is through its food - so you can bet we're trying everything from street cart snacks to fine dining experiences.

Sometimes one of us explores solo while the other is knee-deep in work emails, so we've got insights for both couple and solo travelers. And don't worry, we haven't forgotten our fellow food lovers - we're always on the hunt for the next great meal, whether it's a hole-in-the-wall taco joint or a Michelin-starred restaurant.

We hope our experiences and tips help you navigate new cities with confidence, discover incredible meals, and create unforgettable travel memories. Remember, every destination has its quirks and challenges, but with a little preparation and an open mind, the world is yours to explore. Safe travels and happy eating!