U.S. Cities you should avoid visiting at all costs

Planning a cross-country adventure sounds thrilling until you realize some stops can turn a dream trip into a stressful detour.

Visiting the United States offers a massive variety of experiences, from the buzzing streets of New York to the quiet deserts of Arizona. While most travelers have a fantastic time exploring the culture and sights, there are specific spots that might not be the best fit for a carefree holiday due to safety concerns. It is smart to look into the local conditions of any destination before booking your flights and hotels.

Some cities struggle with higher crime rates than others, which can make a relaxed vacation feel a bit stressful for an outsider. If you want to keep your trip smooth and enjoyable, you might want to skip these eleven locations where the risks often outweigh the rewards. Sticking to safer tourist hubs will give you peace of mind and let you focus on having fun.

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is famous for blues music and barbecue, but recent data suggests it is currently one of the riskiest places to visit. The city reported a violent crime rate of about 2,501 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2024, which is significantly higher than the national average. This makes walking around certain areas at night quite risky for tourists who do not know the layout.

You might want to see Graceland, yet the surrounding neighborhoods can be unpredictable and generally unsafe for visitors. Car break-ins and theft are common issues that can quickly ruin a road trip or a rental car experience. Travelers often find it better to visit Nashville instead for a safer taste of music history and southern culture.

St Louis, Missouri

This city is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, but the crime numbers here have been concerning for a long time. While there is a rich history, the danger levels in many districts remain high enough to make casual exploration unwise. You should be very careful if you decide to drive through, as carjackings and theft are frequent problems.

Local officials are working hard to improve the situation, but for a tourist, the risk might not be worth the visit right now. Staying in the designated tourist zones does not guarantee safety, as crime can spill over into downtown areas. It is often recommended to admire the Arch from a distance or choose a different stop along the Mississippi River.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit has a strong spirit and is trying to make a comeback, but safety remains a major hurdle for the city. In 2025, the city recorded 165 criminal homicides, a figure that keeps many potential visitors away despite recent improvements. Abandoned buildings and poorly lit streets in some areas can create an unsettling atmosphere for anyone unfamiliar with the territory.

Downtown has seen some revitalization, yet stepping outside that small bubble can put you in vulnerable situations. The police force is stretched thin, meaning response times can be slower than you would expect in an emergency. Most travelers find that the automotive history is interesting, but perhaps not enough to justify the potential safety headaches.

Little Rock, Arkansas

You might not expect a smaller state capital to be on this list, but Little Rock has struggled with rising violence recently. Arkansas Times shows the violent crime rate here increased by 16% from 2024 to 2025, a statistic that shocks many potential visitors. This high rate of crime makes it difficult to recommend as a relaxing stopover on a southern road trip.

Gang activity and aggravated assaults are primary drivers of these statistics, often concentrated in areas tourists might accidentally stumble into. It is a shame because the natural beauty of Arkansas is stunning, but the capital city has some rough edges. For a peaceful vacation, sticking to the Ozark Mountains or other rural areas of the state is a much better bet.

Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham has a deep history regarding the Civil Rights Movement, but its modern crime issues are hard to ignore. The city consistently ranks high for violent offenses, which can be intimidating for someone just passing through. Visitors are frequently warned to stay in very specific areas and avoid wandering off the main paths after the sun goes down.

Property crime is also a significant issue here, meaning your belongings might not be safe even if you are parked in a seemingly okay spot. The economic struggles in the region have contributed to these safety challenges over the years. If you are interested in history, visiting museums during the day is okay, but staying overnight might be better done elsewhere.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is a city with a beautiful harbor, but it fights a tough battle with its reputation for danger. Although the city saw a drop to 133 homicides in 2025, the baseline for violent crime remains high compared to other tourist-friendly cities. This improvement is good news, yet the numbers are still worrying for families or solo travelers planning a holiday.

The areas surrounding the popular Inner Harbor can shift from safe to dangerous within just a few blocks. Tourists often find it confusing to know which streets are safe, leading to stressful situations. You might prefer visiting nearby Washington D.C. or Annapolis, which offer plenty of history and culture with a generally safer environment.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a major draw for music lovers from all over the world. However, the city struggles with economic hardship that has fueled high crime rates in many neighborhoods. Axios reports that Cleveland’s robberies decreased by 21% in 2025; however, it still has a serious issue with theft and personal safety.

Public transportation can be sketchy at times, and walking alone at night is generally discouraged for visitors. While the downtown area has pockets of activity, the risk of muggings or theft is higher than in other Midwestern cities. It is best to visit the museum during the day and perhaps stay in a safer suburb if you really want to see the exhibits.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The Big Easy is famous for its parties and food, but it also has a dark side when it comes to visitor safety. Tourists are often targeted for theft and scams, especially during crowded events like Mardi Gras. Violent crime can occur even in popular areas like the French Quarter, so staying alert is absolutely critical at all times.

Police presence is heavy in tourist zones, but criminals often take advantage of distracted visitors who have had too much to drink. The charm of the city is undeniable, but the underlying danger is real and persistent. If you go, keep your wits about you, stay in groups, and never leave your drink unattended in a bar.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

This city gained fame from television shows, but the reality of crime here is quite serious for residents and guests. In 2024 alone, the city reported 4,404 aggravated assaults, a number that reflects the volatile nature of street safety in the area. Auto theft is also rampant, so parking a rental car anywhere in the city comes with a high risk of a break-in.

The scenery is beautiful, but the high rate of property and violent crime makes it a stressful place to relax. Many travelers report feeling uneasy at gas stations or shopping centers due to aggressive panhandling or visible drug use. Exploring the wider landscapes of New Mexico is wonderful, but Albuquerque itself might be best used as a quick transit point.

Oakland, California

Oakland sits right across the bay from San Francisco, yet it deals with a very different set of safety challenges. The city has long battled with high rates of robbery and carjackings that target both locals and tourists. Airport areas and gas stations near the highway are notorious spots where travelers get their luggage stolen in seconds.

Community leaders are trying to fix these issues, but for now, the risks are quite high for a casual visitor. It is sad because the city has a vibrant arts scene and great food that often gets overshadowed by these reports. Most international visitors choose to stay in other parts of the Bay Area and skip Oakland to avoid potential trouble.

Stockton, California

Stockton is another California city that frequently appears on lists of places to avoid due to safety concerns. Economic difficulties have led to high crime rates that affect the quality of life and the safety of visitors. There are very few tourist attractions here, so most travelers have little reason to stop unless they are just passing through.

The city struggles with gang violence and property crime, creating an environment that does not feel welcoming to outsiders. It serves as a reminder that not every part of the Golden State is sunny beaches and glamour. Driving past Stockton on your way to Yosemite or Sacramento is usually the best plan for a stress-free holiday.

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