10 Crime-Heavy Cities in the US That Are Surprisingly Popular with Tourists

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of exploring new places. But while you’re busy admiring the skyline or finding the perfect food truck, you might not notice the subtle signs that a seemingly charming destination could have a darker side.

Having lived in St. Louis for years (which is high on this list) and journeyed through 65 countries, I know how important it is to be aware of your surroundings, especially in spots where tourists can unknowingly find themselves in sticky situations.

Based on FBI statistics, here are 10 of the most dangerous tourist cities in the US with surprisingly high crime rates. Don’t let this list discourage you from visiting; just avoid the less welcoming areas.

1. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore welcomes more than 27 million tourists each year who come for the crab cakes and to visit the National Aquarium. Unfortunately, the city also boasts one of the highest homicide rates in the country.

The Harbor is safer as it has a strong police presence at all hours of the day, but there are many neighborhoods you should avoid venturing into certain areas alone, especially at night. This includes the neighborhoods surrounding Johns Hopkins University and hospital, which have seen a rise in crime in recent years.

Still, there are plenty of attractions to keep tourists occupied during their stay.

2. St. Louis, Missouri

For decades, St. Louis has appeared in reports highlighting America’s highest violent crime rates as one of the world’s most dangerous cities. Despite this troubling distinction, nearly 25 million visitors still make their way here each year.

They come to see the Gateway Arch, sample toasted ravioli, and catch a Cardinals baseball game on a summer afternoon. The old neighborhoods carry a long history, and museums like the City Museum is where even adults can feel like a kid again.

Anyone stopping by can also take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi, browse through unique street murals, or try St. Louis–style barbecue. The city’s reputation for danger often centers on its inner-city neighborhoods, but turning a corner can bring you face to face with unexpected sketchiness.

3. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit was once a powerhouse for American industry, earning the nickname “Motor City” for its role in churning out automobiles. Sadly though, over time this Midwest metropolis fell into extreme poverty, and crime rates spiked as a result.

With revitalization efforts, millions of tourists every year head downtown to catch a Tigers game, listen to live music, or explore the Detroit Institute of Arts. Automobile history still plays a huge role here, and visitors learn about American manufacturing at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. You might tour historic Motown studios, sample local coney dogs, and shop at Eastern Market.

Certain neighborhoods require caution, but the city center has seen new restaurants open and downtown hotels welcome guests daily.

4. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis routinely turns up on updated crime rankings each year, but over 13 million visitors still arrive to pay respects at Elvis Presley’s Graceland or stroll down Beale Street. The city’s barbecue joints and blues clubs remain crowd favorites, as do the National Civil Rights Museum and historic Sun Studio.

Many people stop in for a weekend to catch outdoor concerts, try local dry-rub ribs, or watch the famous Peabody ducks waddle through a grand hotel lobby.

Although issues with violence persist, the core tourism areas tend to stay lively and welcoming. Even with the crime statistics, tourists still find reasons to keep coming back.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans often appears on lists tracking violent crime, yet it’s the place I most recommend people to visit in the whole country. The city’s complex past include elements of Spanish, French, and African influences.

Aside from the legendary festival of Mardi Gras, the French Quarter brims with live jazz, Creole eateries, and rowdy bars that keep people up all night. Groups arrive ready to sample muffulettas, try beignets at dawn, or dance in the streets during a second-line parade.

While some neighborhoods deal with ongoing safety concerns, the central tourist corridors remain crowded with street performers, colorful art galleries, and historic architecture.

6. Chicago, Illinois

Despite consistently ranking high on lists tracking violent crime, Chicago sees over 50 million visitors a year. More cautious visitors may stick close to major downtown landmarks and well-established tourist zones.

People arrive to explore the Art Institute, gaze up at the Willis Tower, and snap photos at “The Bean” in Millennium Park. Neighborhoods vary widely, and travelers know to focus on areas known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Deep-dish pizza, hot dogs piled high with toppings, and countless craft breweries keep food lovers busy for days. Lakefront trails, sports stadiums, and world-class museums shape many trip itineraries.

7. Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage might surprise some as a relatively dangerous destination for its size, but the city continues to draw people who want to experience a northern city before heading into the wilderness beyond.

They come to start Alaskan adventures, check out local shops, and maybe even join a day trip out toward glaciers or nearby parks. Seafood restaurants serve wild-caught salmon, and cultural centers highlight the traditions of Alaska’s Indigenous communities.

Safety issues have arisen, causing many to remain aware of their surroundings, especially after dark. Even so, Anchorage acts as a gateway to Alaska’s outdoor activities, attracting those who prioritize a visit despite reported crime.

8. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City makes occasional appearances on lists of dangerous urban areas. Although some districts experience higher crime rates, most out-of-towners focus on well-known areas and established attractions.

Temple Square remains a major draw, along with local museums, performing arts venues, and a thriving restaurant scene. Visitors can explore one of the 13 nearby and amazing ski resorts in winter or hike in the surrounding mountains during warmer months.

Outdoor enthusiasts use Salt Lake City as a base to reach national parks and scenic byways.

9. Corpus Christi, Texas

Corpus Christi sees more than 10 million visitors annually, drawn to its beaches and waterfront activities.

Step onto the USS Lexington, walk through the Texas State Aquarium, or try local seafood straight off the boats. The city’s marina, coastal boardwalk, and outdoor concerts create a lively atmosphere. Many travelers rent kayaks, cast fishing lines, or wander along scenic piers.

Though crime issues persist, a lot of tourism happens near well-maintained coastal areas that remain packed in summer.

10. Albuquerque, New Mexico

While solo traveling through Albuquerque, multiple locals informed me to watch my belongings, but I thought it was a lovely destination in New Mexico.

The city hosts the world’s largest International Balloon Fiesta, while others stop by Old Town for shopping and dining in centuries-old plazas. The local chile peppers, art galleries, and craft breweries keep people entertained.

Outdoor types head toward the Sandia Mountains to hike or ride the tram for panoramic views.

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