Is Cleveland Safe? Major Crimes Are Down in the Forest City

"Is Cleveland safe? Isn't that where the river caught on fire?" my mom asked, her voice tinged with concern when I told her about our upcoming trip. Meanwhile, my best friend, a die-hard sports fan, exclaimed, "Cleveland rocks! Just watch out for rowdy fans during game days!" So, which is it? Is Cleveland a dangerous rust belt city or a hidden gem of the Midwest?

My wife Sarah and I decided to find out for ourselves. As a middle-aged couple (though I prefer to think of myself as "eternally 35"), we've traveled to over 30 countries across 6 continents. But Cleveland? That was new territory for us.

We spent a week exploring the Forest City, determined to uncover the truth about its safety. As remote workers with a passion for food and culture, we were excited to dive into Cleveland's culinary scene and rich history. But first, we needed to address the elephant in the room: safety.

In this article, I'll share how we assessed Cleveland's safety before our trip and our honest experiences during our stay. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a couple like us, we hope our insights will help you navigate Cleveland with confidence. So, grab a pierogi (trust me, you'll want one after reading this), and let's dive in!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and headed to the land of rock 'n' roll, we did our homework. Here's how we assessed Cleveland's safety:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first, we checked the U.S. Department of State travel advisory. Now, I know what you're thinking - "Tobi, that's for international travel!" True, but it's a habit we've developed over years of globetrotting. Plus, it gives us a baseline for comparison.

Turns out, there's no specific advisory for Cleveland (shocker, I know). But the U.S. as a whole is rated Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) on the global scale. For context, that's the same level as France or the UK. Not too shabby, Cleveland!

[State Department Check: PASS]

02 - Latest News

Next, we dove into recent news about Cleveland. We were pleasantly surprised to find that major crimes in Cleveland have been trending downward. The city has been implementing various safety initiatives, including increased police presence and community engagement programs.

One headline that caught our eye was about Cleveland's summer safety plan, which focuses on increased police presence and social services. It's always reassuring to see a city proactively addressing safety concerns.

We didn't find any recent news about tourist-targeted crimes, which was a good sign. The most "dangerous" thing we read about was the possibility of overeating at the West Side Market!

[Latest News Check: PASS]

03 - Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the holy grail of travel research: community forums. We scoured TripAdvisor and Reddit for real travelers' experiences.

On Reddit, we found a mix of opinions, but most agreed that Cleveland is generally safe for visitors who use common sense. One user wrote, "As a woman in Cleveland, I frequently go places alone. I take RTA often. I just keep my head up and look confident and people generally leave me alone."

TripAdvisor forums echoed similar sentiments. A solo female traveler shared, "I felt completely safe walking around downtown Cleveland during the day. The streets were busy with locals and tourists, and I never felt uncomfortable."

Of course, like any city, Cleveland has its rougher areas. Several posts advised avoiding East Cleveland and parts of the east side, especially at night. We made a mental note of these tips.

[Community Forum Check: PASS]

With all three checks passing, we felt confident about our trip to Cleveland. But as seasoned travelers, we know that official reports and forum posts can only tell you so much. The real test would be our on-the-ground experience.

First Hand Experience in Cleveland

Alright, let's get to the juicy part - our week-long adventure in Cleveland! We explored several neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and, of course, safety considerations.

Downtown Cleveland

Downtown Cleveland surprised us with its cleanliness and vibrancy. The streets were busy with a mix of tourists and locals, even in the evening.

We started our exploration at Public Square, the heart of downtown. The recently renovated square was bustling with activity, from office workers on lunch breaks to families enjoying the green spaces. We felt completely at ease walking around, even when we got a bit lost trying to find our dinner spot (pro tip: Google Maps and Cleveland's diagonal streets don't always play nice).

Speaking of dinner, we had an incredible meal at Lola Bistro, celebrity chef Michael Symon's flagship restaurant. The staff were friendly and gave us great tips about navigating the city safely.

One evening, we attended a Guardians game at Progressive Field. The atmosphere was electric, and we felt safe walking back to our hotel even after the game ended late at night. The streets were well-lit, and we noticed a visible police presence.

Of course, no trip to Cleveland is complete without a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. We spent hours reliving music history and felt completely secure the entire time.

Is Downtown Cleveland Safe? YES

Ohio City

Ohio City quickly became one of our favorite neighborhoods. This trendy area west of downtown is known for its breweries, restaurants, and the famous West Side Market.

We started our day at the market, sampling everything from pierogi to fresh produce. The market was busy but not overwhelming, and we felt safe the entire time. Just watch out for the slippery floors - the only danger here is dropping your delicious treats!

In the evening, we embarked on a mini brewery tour. We visited Great Lakes Brewing Company and Market Garden Brewery, both within walking distance of each other. The streets were well-lit, and we saw many other people out enjoying the neighborhood's nightlife.

One thing we appreciated was the presence of Downtown Cleveland Alliance ambassadors. These friendly folks in yellow shirts were always ready to offer directions or safety tips.

Is Ohio City Safe? YES

Tremont

Tremont, just south of Ohio City, charmed us with its artsy vibe and fantastic restaurants. We felt like we had stepped into a small town rather than a neighborhood in a major city.

We started our Tremont adventure with a self-guided food tour, sampling everything from gourmet tacos to creative ice cream flavors. The neighborhood was easy to navigate on foot, and we felt comfortable walking around even as night fell.

One evening, we enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Dante, a cozy restaurant housed in a former bank building. The staff were incredibly friendly, offering us tips on other safe areas to explore in the city.

We also visited several art galleries, including the Doubting Thomas Gallery. The locals we met were welcoming and eager to share their love for their neighborhood.

Is Tremont Safe? YES

University Circle

University Circle, home to many of Cleveland's cultural institutions, felt like a city within a city. The presence of students and academics gave the area a lively, youthful energy.

We spent a day museum-hopping, visiting the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Both were not only fascinating but also had visible security, adding to our sense of safety.

In the evening, we attended a performance at Severance Hall, home of the Cleveland Orchestra. The area was well-lit and busy with concert-goers, and we felt perfectly safe walking back to our car afterward.

One thing to note: while the immediate University Circle area felt very safe, we were advised not to wander too far into some of the surrounding neighborhoods, especially after dark.

Is University Circle Safe? YES, but stick to the main areas

Little Italy

Little Italy was a delightful surprise. This compact neighborhood just east of University Circle transported us straight to the streets of Rome (minus the Vespas weaving through traffic).

We spent an afternoon wandering the streets, popping into little shops and bakeries. The smell of freshly baked cannoli was enough to make us forget any safety concerns!

For dinner, we enjoyed an incredible meal at Guarino's Restaurant, Cleveland's oldest Italian restaurant. The streets were busy with diners and locals out for evening strolls, creating a lively but safe atmosphere.

Is Little Italy Safe? YES

Edgewater

Our last stop was Edgewater, a lakefront neighborhood west of downtown. The star attraction here is Edgewater Park, with its beautiful beach and skyline views.

We spent a sunny afternoon at the park, joining locals in soaking up the sun and splashing in Lake Erie. The park was busy but not crowded, and we saw regular patrols by park rangers.

As the sun set, we enjoyed dinner at the Beach House, watching the sky turn pink over the lake. The area remained busy into the evening, with many families and couples enjoying the cooler lakeside temperatures.

Is Edgewater Safe? YES, especially during the day

Cleveland by Foot

One of the best ways to explore a city is on foot, and Cleveland didn't disappoint. We found most areas we visited to be very walkable, with wide sidewalks and plenty of pedestrian crossings.

During the day, we felt completely comfortable walking in all the neighborhoods we visited. The downtown area, in particular, was easy to navigate on foot, with many attractions within walking distance of each other.

At night, we were a bit more cautious. While we still felt safe walking in well-lit, busy areas like East 4th Street or around Progressive Field after a game, we chose to use ride-sharing services when going to or from quieter neighborhoods after dark.

One thing we appreciated was the presence of Downtown Cleveland Alliance Safety Ambassadors. These friendly folks in yellow shirts were always ready to offer directions or safety tips.

Cleveland by Uber

When we didn't feel like walking or when we were traveling at night, we relied on Uber. Our experiences were universally positive - drivers were friendly, cars were clean, and we never had to wait more than a few minutes for a ride.

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

• Airport to/from our downtown hotel
• Late night returns from restaurants or bars outside downtown
• Traveling between neighborhoods that weren't easily walkable (e.g., from Ohio City to University Circle)
• Any time we felt unsure about an area, especially at night

We found Uber to be an affordable and reliable option in Cleveland. It gave us peace of mind knowing we could easily get a safe ride if we ever felt uncomfortable walking.

Final Thoughts

So, is Cleveland safe? Based on our week-long experience, we'd give it a resounding yes - with the usual urban caveats.

Like any big city, Cleveland has its rougher areas, and it pays to be aware of your surroundings. But in the neighborhoods we visited - which cover most of the areas a tourist would want to see - we felt safe and welcomed.

Here are our top safety tips for Cleveland visitors:

• Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night
• Use ride-sharing services for late-night trips or when traveling between distant neighborhoods
• Keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings
• Don't be afraid to ask locals or Downtown Cleveland Alliance ambassadors for advice
• Trust your instincts - if an area feels unsafe, it's okay to change your plans

Cleveland surprised us with its friendly locals, fantastic food scene, and wealth of cultural attractions. We never once felt unsafe during our visit, and the "Mistake on the Lake" moniker couldn't be further from our experience.

Whether you're a foodie looking to explore Cleveland's culinary scene, a sports fan eager to catch a game, or a culture vulture ready to dive into world-class museums, Cleveland has something for you. And you can enjoy it all while feeling safe and secure.

So go ahead, book that trip to Cleveland. Just don't blame us when you fall in love with the city and start planning your next visit before you've even left!

About Us

We're Tobi and Sarah, a middle-aged couple from Florida who recently tied the knot. After years of vacationing in standard tourist hotspots, we decided to shake things up by traveling the world while working remotely. Our goal? To provide diverse perspectives on safety and place recommendations for various types of travelers.

Sometimes one of us explores solo while the other works, giving us insights on safety for both couples and solo travelers. And as certified foodies, we're always ready to dive into the local cuisine, no matter how adventurous!

We believe that with the right information and a dash of common sense, everyone can travel safer and smarter. So whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, we hope our experiences help you make the most of your travels. After all, life's too short to miss out on pierogi in Cleveland or a slice of pizza in Naples!

Cultural Considerations for Safety

Cleveland, like any city, has its own unique cultural aspects that can impact your safety experience. Here are a few things we noticed:

1. Sports Culture: Clevelanders are passionate about their sports teams. On game days, especially for the Browns or Guardians, the downtown area can get crowded and rowdy. While it's generally good-natured fun, it's wise to be extra aware of your surroundings during these times.
2. Midwest Friendliness: We found Clevelanders to be incredibly friendly and helpful. Don't be surprised if strangers strike up conversations or offer directions. This openness contributes to a general feeling of safety, but as always, trust your instincts.
3. Neighborhood Pride: Each neighborhood we visited had a strong sense of community pride. Locals were often eager to share tips about their favorite spots and safety advice. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations!
4. Winter Weather: While we visited in summer, we learned that Cleveland winters can be harsh. If you're visiting during colder months, be prepared for snow and ice, which can create safety hazards when walking or driving.
5. Industrial History: Cleveland's industrial past is evident in its architecture and layout. Some areas are still in transition, so it's good to research specific neighborhoods before visiting, especially those off the typical tourist path.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

During our week in Cleveland, we met a diverse range of travelers. Here are some safety tips tailored to different types of visitors:

Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler (Sarah explored solo a couple of days while I worked), Cleveland felt welcoming and safe. Here are some tips:

• Stay in well-populated areas, especially at night.
• Use the RTA (public transportation) during daytime hours for easy and safe travel between neighborhoods.
• Consider joining guided tours to explore the city safely while meeting other travelers.
• Take advantage of the Downtown Cleveland Alliance's Safety Escort program if you're ever feeling uncomfortable.

Families

Cleveland offers many family-friendly attractions, and we saw plenty of families enjoying the city safely. Some tips:

• Edgewater Park and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo are great, safe options for family outings.
• Use ride-sharing services or drive if you're out late with kids.
• The Great Lakes Science Center is not only educational but also has visible security, making it a safe and fun family destination.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Cleveland is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, particularly in neighborhoods like Ohio City and Tremont. The city hosts a Pride festival annually, and we saw rainbow flags displayed in many businesses.

Travelers with Disabilities

We noticed that many attractions and public spaces in Cleveland are accessible. The Downtown Cleveland Alliance can provide information on accessibility and safety for visitors with disabilities.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

While we visited Cleveland in summer, we learned that safety considerations can vary by season:

Summer

• Be prepared for hot and humid weather. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
• Beaches like Edgewater can get crowded. Keep an eye on your belongings.
• Summer festivals and events can lead to increased crowds downtown. Stay alert in busy areas.

Fall

• Fall in Cleveland is beautiful, but be prepared for rapidly changing weather.
• Browns games can lead to heavy traffic and crowded areas downtown. Plan accordingly.

Winter

• Cleveland winters can be harsh. Be prepared for snow and ice, which can create walking and driving hazards.
• Layer up to avoid hypothermia and frostbite.
• Be cautious of icy sidewalks and roads.

Spring

• Spring can bring heavy rains. Be aware of potential flooding in low-lying areas.
• As the weather warms up, more people are out and about. Stay alert in busy areas.

Emergency Information

While we thankfully didn't need to use any emergency services during our stay, it's always good to be prepared. Here's some crucial information:

• Emergency number: 911 (for police, fire, or medical emergencies)
• Non-emergency police: 216-621-1234
• Cleveland Clinic (main campus): 216-444-2200
• University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center: 216-844-8447
• City of Cleveland website for local information and resources

Practical Safety Tips

Based on our experience and conversations with locals, here are our top safety tips for visiting Cleveland:

1. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
2. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking after dark.
3. Use ride-sharing services or taxis for late-night travel between neighborhoods.
4. Keep valuables out of sight and consider using a money belt in crowded areas.
5. Be cautious when using ATMs. Opt for those inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas.
6. If driving, park in well-lit areas and don't leave valuables visible in your car.
7. Trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, leave the area.
8. Stay informed about the weather, especially in winter when conditions can change rapidly.
9. Don't hesitate to ask hotel staff or Downtown Cleveland Alliance ambassadors for safety advice or directions.
10. Consider downloading safety apps like Citizen for real-time safety alerts.

A Few Final Thoughts

As we packed our bags (and several boxes of Cleveland-made Mitchell's Ice Cream - don't judge!), we reflected on our week in the city. Cleveland had surprised us in the best possible way.

Yes, like any urban area, Cleveland has its challenges. But the Cleveland we experienced was a far cry from the "mistake on the lake" reputation of decades past. Instead, we found a city rich in culture, bursting with culinary delights, and filled with friendly, proud residents.

From the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to the Cleveland Museum of Art, from Ohio City's breweries to Little Italy's trattorias, we always felt safe and welcomed.

Is Cleveland perfect? No city is. But is Cleveland safe for visitors? In our experience, absolutely yes. With common sense precautions and a bit of pre-trip research, you can explore this underrated gem of a city with confidence.

So go ahead, book that trip to Cleveland. Catch a Guardians game, sample Great Lakes beer, stroll through the West Side Market, and maybe even practice your Rock and Roll Hall of Fame acceptance speech (we won't tell anyone). Just don't be surprised if, like us, you find yourself planning your next visit before you've even left.

After all, in the words of a local we met at Lola Bistro, "Cleveland's like a good pierogi - it might not look fancy on the outside, but once you try it, you can't get enough." We couldn't agree more.

Safe travels, and enjoy Cleveland!