Areas to Avoid in Denver
United States
|🛡️ SafeHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Denver. Which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Certain stretches along I-25 north of downtown
Primarily industrial and commercial, lacking tourist attractions and amenities, with some areas experiencing higher crime rates and visible homelessness.
Areas immediately surrounding some light rail stations far from the city center
These can sometimes be areas with higher crime rates, particularly after dark, and lack the pedestrian-friendly infrastructure or points of interest for tourists.
General Safety Tips for Denver
At Night
Most tourist areas like LoDo and Uptown are lively and well-lit. Exercise caution in less populated areas or those with a higher concentration of homeless individuals, particularly late at night. Public transport is generally safe but be mindful.
Solo Female Travel
Denver is generally safe for solo female travelers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables openly.
Emergency Number
911
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Denver
- 1Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas like 16th Street Mall or public transit.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed street vendors.
- 3Fake charity collectors.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
LoDo (Lower Downtown)
Historic brick buildings meet modern sports arenas and lively bars.
Generally safe due to high foot traffic, but be aware of your surroundings at night, especially after events.
RiNo (River North Art District)
Vibrant street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries in a formerly industrial area.
Generally safe with many people out and about, but some side streets can be deserted and poorly lit after dark.
Capitol Hill
Eclectic mix of historic mansions, colorful bungalows, and a diverse, bohemian population.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty crime and the visible homeless population, especially in areas closer to downtown and along Colfax at night.
Uptown
Upscale residential streets lined with sophisticated restaurants and bars, adjacent to downtown.
Very safe during the day and evening due to well-lit streets and upscale establishments, but standard big-city awareness applies at night.
Safety in Denver
SafeSolo Female Travel
Denver is generally safe for solo female travelers. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables openly.
At Night
Most tourist areas like LoDo and Uptown are lively and well-lit. Exercise caution in less populated areas or those with a higher concentration of homeless individuals, particularly late at night. Public transport is generally safe but be mindful.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas like 16th Street Mall or public transit.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed street vendors.
- 3Fake charity collectors.