Denver is generally a safe city to visit, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the United States.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Denver before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Denver is considered a safe city, with a strong economy and a high quality of life. The city has a low crime rate compared to other major cities in the United States, and visitors can feel comfortable walking around the city and exploring its many neighborhoods and attractions. However, as with any city, there are areas that are safer than others, and visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Denver also has a relatively low risk of natural disasters, with minimal risk of earthquakes, hurricanes, or other major disasters.
Despite its overall safety, Denver does have some areas with higher crime rates, and visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, and visitors should be aware of their drinking and take necessary precautions to get home safely. Additionally, Denver's elevation can pose health risks for some visitors, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions. However, with some basic precautions and planning, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Denver.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Denver | Safe | Busy and well-patrolled area with many shops and restaurants |
| LoDo (Lower Downtown) | Safe | Historic neighborhood with many bars and restaurants, can be crowded at night |
| Larimer Square | Safe | Upscale shopping and dining area, well-patrolled |
| Highlands | Safe | Trendy neighborhood with many shops and restaurants, some areas can be crowded at night |
| Capitol Hill | Moderate | Some areas can be seedy, with higher crime rates, but still generally safe for visitors |
| Colfax Avenue | Moderate | Some areas can be run-down, with higher crime rates, but still has many shops and restaurants |
| Park Hill | Safe | Residential neighborhood with some shops and restaurants, generally quiet and safe |
| Five Points | Moderate | Some areas can be seedy, with higher crime rates, but still has a vibrant arts and culture scene |
Common Risks & Scams
- Be aware of pickpocketing and theft in crowded areas, particularly in tourist hotspots like Union Station and the 16th Street Mall.
- Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as fake parking attendants or panhandlers.
- Be aware of traffic and pedestrian safety, particularly in areas with high foot traffic.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, particularly if you're not used to high elevations.
- Be aware of weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when roads can be icy and snowy.
- Be cautious of panhandlers and aggressive solicitors, particularly in areas like Colfax Avenue and Capitol Hill.
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Denver, but it's always a good idea to make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
- Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in Denver, but bottled water is also widely available.
- Medical Facilities: Denver has many high-quality medical facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers, and most medical staff speak English.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available in Denver, and many are open 24 hours.
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or at night.
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a money belt or hotel safe.
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas, particularly at night.
- Keep your hotel room door locked and use the deadbolt when possible.
- Be cautious when using ATMs or credit card machines, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Consider using a ride-sharing service or taxi instead of walking or driving at night.
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Consider staying in well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts, particularly if you feel uncomfortable or unsure.
- Keep your hotel room number and phone number private, and avoid sharing them with strangers.
- Consider joining a group tour or guided walk to explore the city, particularly if you're traveling alone.