16 Areas to Avoid in Denver, CO [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Welcome to the Mile High City—a place renowned for its breathtaking Rockies backdrop and vibrant urban energy. Yet, as a tourist who’s wandered through Denver’s diverse neighborhoods, I’ve realized the importance of staying street-smart. When planning your trip, it’s just as crucial to know the areas to avoid in Denver as it is to pinpoint the countless activities to do in Denver. Navigating away from less favorable spots keeps your adventure positive and ensures you’re spending your time soaking in the best experiences this city offers.

Denver’s allure is undeniable, with its eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, and outdoor activities. However, the city, like any other, has its share of spots that might not make it to the top of your itinerary for various reasons. Whether it’s concerns about safety, lack of tourist amenities, or simply an underwhelming atmosphere, being clued in on these areas can spare you from unnecessary hassles.

What really sets a savvy traveler apart is the knowledge gleaned from both research and lived experiences. I’m here to share just that, giving you insights into which neighborhoods might be best left off your Denver discovery route. Armed with this local wisdom, your journey through the city can be as safe as it is enthralling, letting you create memories in Denver’s most welcoming corners.

1. Five Points

When visiting Denver, most areas offer a blend of charm and modernity that delight tourists and residents alike. However, it’s important to be mindful of certain areas that may have safety concerns, especially after dark. Five Points, despite its rich cultural history and being one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods, has been known as one of the historically significant neighborhoods in Denver with high crime rates compared to other parts of the city. This area, historically the heart of the African-American community, offers vibrant murals, jazz clubs, and culinary delights, yet it’s advisable to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings if you plan to explore this neighborhood.

While Denver police have made strides in reducing crime and many parts of Five Points have seen rejuvenation with trendy breweries and eateries popping up, it’s still recommended to exercise caution, particularly at night. Visitors should keep their wits about them and travel in groups if possible. Enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character but prioritize your safety as you would in any urban area.

2. Capitol Hill

As we continue to spotlight Denver’s diverse neighborhoods, Capitol Hill stands as a bustling urban enclave brimming with historic mansions, eclectic shops, and an energetic nightlife. However, much like its neighbor Five Points, Capitol Hill grapples with safety concerns, earning it a reputation as one of the areas to avoid in Denver at night. While incidents are frequently limited to property crimes such as theft, it’s wise for visitors to maintain vigilance, especially after the sun sets. The community’s vibrant pulse can sometimes draw in unsavory elements, so traveling in groups and staying in well-lit areas during evening outings is prudent.

Capitol Hill’s allure is undeniable, with its bohemian atmosphere and close proximity to the State Capitol and art museums adding to its appeal for travelers and locals alike. But, ensure that your adventures in this storied quarter of the Mile High City are secure by keeping an eye on your belongings and being cautious when venturing out at night.

3. City Park

Continuing our exploration of Denver’s tapestry of neighborhoods, City Park emerges as an oasis of greenery and recreation amidst the urban sprawl. While widely regarded as a daytime haven for family picnics, leisurely strolls, and a host of cultural attractions including the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science, it’s prudent to be mindful of safety after dark. While City Park itself is not necessarily synonymous with high-risk areas in Denver, it’s sensible to avoid isolated areas and stick to well-traveled paths and lit venues if you find yourself there as evening approaches.

City Park’s charm is heightened by its panoramic views of Denver’s skyline against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains. However, in keeping with urban park wisdom, it’s best to enjoy these scenic pleasures with company, keeping personal safety in mind. As with any metropolitan park, remaining observant and avoiding late-night solitude ensures a positive and memorable visit to this green heart of Denver.

4. Central West Denver

Central West Denver, with its diverse neighborhoods and cultural richness, invites exploration and discovery. While the area boasts picturesque residential neighborhoods and is known for its easy access to downtown Denver, it’s important to acknowledge that, like any urban area, there are problematic areas in the Mile High City that are best approached with caution. Certain pockets within Central West Denver have higher incidences of crime, often related to nighttime activity. It’s wise for visitors to plan their travels during daylight, stick to main roads and populated areas, and remain aware of their surroundings, ensuring their adventures in this part of the city remain safe and enjoyable.

Despite these considerations, Central West Denver’s charm is not lost on its visitors. The area offers an authentic slice of city life, with a mix of trendy hotspots and local haunts that reflect Denver’s eclectic spirit. Remember to keep personal safety top of mind, especially after dark, as you soak in the local flavor and vibrant scenes that Central West Denver has to offer.

5. Auraria

Nestled along the convergence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, Auraria stands as a historical gem adjoining downtown Denver. It’s home to the Auraria Higher Education Center, a bustling hub where three institutions converge. By day, this area teems with lively students and cultural vibrancy, offering a unique window into Denver’s academic heartbeat. While Auraria’s charm is undeniable, it is advisable to note that, as with other urban areas, there are adjacent neighborhoods that may qualify as risky districts in Denver, where it’s wise to exercise additional caution after dark. Instances of petty crime are not unheard of in these areas, so it’s prudent to remain in well-lit areas and travel in groups during evening hours.

Exploring Auraria’s daytime charm is a must, from the allure of its historic buildings to the palpable pulse of student life. Keep the spirit of adventure alive by staying informed and cautious, especially as the sun sets. By doing so, you’ll ensure that your encounter with Auraria’s diverse tapestry is both safe and memorable.

6. Stapleton

Stapleton, an area once known for its expansive airport, has been transformed into a vibrant residential community. With its family-friendly parks and events, it’s become a popular destination for those seeking suburban comfort with urban amenities. Nonetheless, like many city neighborhoods undergoing change, Stapleton has spots that might be considered cautionary zones in Denver after dusk. It’s advisable to stay in well-lit, public spaces and always be aware of your surroundings, allowing you to enjoy Stapleton’s growing shopping districts and local eateries with peace of mind.

The community’s emphasis on development and safety has made great strides, yet visitors are reminded to maintain the same vigilance here as they would elsewhere in the city. Stapleton’s evolution encompasses green spaces and a rich network of trails, making it ideal for daytime exploration and outdoor activities. Keep your visit positive by staying alert, and Stapleton will reward you with a delightful and secure experience.

7. Baker

The Baker neighborhood, an eclectic mix of historic charm and contemporary buzz, is another of Denver’s urban delights. Its artistic atmosphere is palpable, with murals and indie stores dotting the main streets, giving the area a bohemian flair. While Baker prides itself on its tight-knit community and vibrant nightlife, it’s important to remember that like any urban area, it has its less savory aspects, especially after dark. To avoid the Denver areas with safety concerns, it’s wise for visitors to keep their wits about them when the sun goes down. Sticking to populated roads and being vigilant can help ensure a secure and engaging time in this creative enclave.

Beyond its artsy veneer, Baker also shares the typical urban precautions as evenings draw in. While not characterized by high danger, it’s always smart practice to move with purpose and remain observant. Enjoying Baker’s vintage vibe and bustling bar scene is best done with a bit of caution in mind, ensuring your explorations remain fond memories.

8. Alamo Placita

Alamo Placita stands out as a picturesque neighborhood, boasting beautifully manicured gardens and historical architecture that invite leisurely daytime strolls. While not commonly featured on the lists of Denver trouble spots, its appeal during daylight can contrast with the need for vigilance at night. Although Alamo Placita is not typically cited among Denver’s most problematic areas, it’s prudent for visitors to apply common sense after dark, sticking to well-traveled streets and maintaining awareness of their surroundings.

This lovely slice of Denver is steeped in charm, especially with Alamo Placita Park serving as a verdant heart for community gatherings. Whether enjoying the local art scene or savoring the quaint eateries, a mindful approach ensures that Alamo Placita can be appreciated safely. Embrace the neighborhood’s allure with the reassurance that comes from staying attentive, and let Alamo Placita offer a tranquil yet engaging Denver experience.

9. Montbello

Continuing our exploration of Denver’s neighborhoods, let’s visit Montbello. This diverse area, with its community spirit and suburban feel, has seen a transformative push towards improvement. However, like any metropolitan area undergoing change, Montbello is often mentioned among the areas not to visit in Denver after dark due to its transitional state. While the neighborhood works to shake a reputation for higher crime rates, it remains a place with potential, offering parks and cultural diversity that reflect the city’s broader tapestry. When traversing Montbello, blend common sense with curiosity, and you’re likely to discover its promising facets alongside the locals who are shaping its future.

The community efforts are evident in Montbello’s local initiatives aimed at nurturing safety and connectivity. While exploring, enjoy the daytime bustle of family-run eateries and spirited festivals. And as dusk sets in, keep to well-lit areas and join in on the communal dedication to watchfulness. A friendly reminder that in any area, awareness is the traveler’s trustworthy companion, ensuring that Montbello’s story is one you’ll want to follow.

10. Central Business District

Navigating the heart of Denver, the Central Business District pulsates with the rhythm of corporate hustle and metropolitan vitality. By day, this district boasts towering skyscrapers and an array of professional opportunities, but as night envelops the city, the bustling ambiance gives way to quiet streets. It’s wise for any savvy traveler to remain vigilant when the office lights dim, as with any urban center, there may be sketchy parts of Denver that are less traversed after hours and require extra caution. The key is to stay on the main thoroughfares and be mindful of your surroundings to enjoy the Central Business District’s energy safely.

As a continuation of our urban journey, the Central Business District’s allure lies in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and the convenience of city life. Whether you’re marveling at the skyline or indulging in the diverse culinary scene, remember that common sense is your ally under the city lights. Stride with confidence and alertness, and let the pulse of Denver’s Central Business District invigorate your explorer’s spirit.

11. Highland

Venturing into Highland, you’ll find yourself in an area that beams with a trendy, upscale vibe, completely detached from the caution advised for some of Denver’s less safe neighborhoods. Highland’s historic streets are flanked by chic boutiques and avant-garde eateries that appeal to a diverse and sophisticated crowd. Yet, as with all urban districts, it’s prudent to exercise a basic level of street smarts, especially after sunset around the less populated pockets of the area.

Highland asserts itself as a beacon of urban renewal, where old-world charm meets modern living. It’s a testament to Denver’s evolving landscape, one that doesn’t typically feature on lists of Denver areas to avoid at night. As you meander through its vibrant avenues, Highland invites you with a sense of safety and community, offering a seamless continuation of the exploration of Denver’s inviting neighborhoods.

12. Park Hill

Continuing our urban adventure, we arrive at Park Hill, a leafy enclave on the east side of Denver. Park Hill exudes a welcoming aura, buffered by tree-lined streets and historic architecture that narrate stories of the city’s past. While Park Hill is generally known for its peaceful residential character, as with any city that has its less safe neighborhoods, it pays to stay observant. Visitors should navigate with the same caution they’d exercise in any city environment, especially at night when some areas can become more secluded.

Yet, don’t let caution keep you from the charm Park Hill has to offer. It’s a place where community ties are strong and local events often celebrate diversity and inclusion. Park Hill’s reputation doesn’t whisper of concern but rather encourages you to enjoy the scenic beauty and friendly vibes. With a mindful approach, Park Hill becomes a serene stop in your Denver discovery tour.

13. Lodo

“LoDo”, short for Lower Downtown, is Denver’s pulsing heart, known for its spirited nightlife and historical landmarks. As a bustling hub, LoDo is generally safe, but it is prudent for visitors to stay alert, similar to the caution advised in Denver’s less safe neighborhoods, particularly when navigating its alleyways or quieter streets at night. By day, however, its art galleries, local breweries, and Coors Field radiate an inviting urban charm that often defies the cautionary tales of inner-city travel.

The neighborhood is steeped in heritage, boasting beautifully restored buildings and iconic attractions. While LoDo can draw a rowdy crowd come evening, the vibrant energy is part of the allure. Just slide into that attentive mindset you’d have in any cosmopolitan area after dark, and LoDo unfolds as a must-see Denver district that admirably holds its own when ranking the city’s safe spots to revel and relax in.

14. Southwestern Denver

As we continue our journey through Denver, we delve into the Southwestern district, an area that resonates with a more suburban essence, typically indicative of a safe and serene lifestyle. However, it’s wise to remain vigilant, as this district, just like any urban area, contains its share of crime hotspots that warrant extra caution after the sun sets. Families and individuals alike find much to cherish in the local parks and schools, reinforcing Southwestern Denver’s reputation as a welcoming community during daylight hours.

But with nightfall can come a shift in ambiance, and some areas may project an air of hostility, a common trait among metropolitan locales. Here in Southwestern Denver, it’s not so much about fear as it is about staying aware. Maintain the vigilant curiosity needed in all urban settings, and you can expect to enjoy a pleasant visit free of trouble. The neighborhood’s convivial spirit often triumphs over apprehensions, securing Southwestern Denver’s place as a distinctive element in the city’s assorted tapestry.

15. Jefferson Park

Tucked away close to Denver’s vibrant core, Jefferson Park offers a quaint respite, sharply contrasting the lively streets of LoDo. This area boasts an inviting parkland spread over 6.7 acres, providing a tranquil break from the urban rush. Nonetheless, as observed in many urban settings, Jefferson Park bears the need for caution, particularly in areas that are dimly lit or less frequented—a common trait in insecure neighborhoods in Denver. By day, the neighborhood exudes a congenial vibe, with locals jogging and families playing, but it’s wise for everyone to stay alert when night falls.

Jefferson Park is an agreeable slice of the city during our exploration, peppered with charming cafes and delightful local spots. While the chance of encountering trouble is minimal, it isn’t nonexistent. Watch your surroundings during quieter evening moments, and your experience should mirror the contentment found in the daytime gatherings at the park’s central attraction.

16. Northwestern Denver

Continuing our exploration of Denver, we traverse the diverse landscape of Northwestern Denver, an area ripe with cultural vibrancy and a storied industrial past. While much of this district presents a tapestry of authentic eateries and expansive parks, some areas are known as Crime hotspots in Denver, reflecting the cautionary tales of any metropolitan expanse. It’s a place where the hum of community coexists with the need for street smarts, particularly as night cloaks the area in shadows.

It’s important for adventurers and residents alike to note that while Northwestern Denver holds many treasures, certain blocks may feel less inviting after dark. The key here, as with all urban dwellings, is to stay aware and trust your instincts. Roam with confidence during the daylight, and as dusk approaches, maintain that same cautious consideration, ensuring your experiences in Northwest Denver remain rich and uninterrupted.

Conclusion

Navigating the vibrant streets of Denver is generally a delightful experience, with its rich cultural tapestry and welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, there are certain areas to be cautious about, particularly after dark or if you’re unfamiliar with the local environment. The heart of downtown, while bustling during the day, can present challenges at night with higher crime rates. Neighborhoods like East Colfax and some areas of Five Points also have reputations for being less safe than other parts of the city. Staying informed and mindful about your surroundings is key when exploring all that Denver has to offer. If you’re planning to stay overnight, it’s a good idea to consider staying in one of the best hotels in Denver to ensure your comfort and safety.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, being aware of the areas to avoid in Denver is an important part of ensuring a positive experience in the Mile High City. Keep in mind that most locales are perfectly safe during the day, provided you stay vigilant and respect typical urban safety practices. Embrace the adventure that Denver presents, but let prudence be your guide as you explore its diverse neighborhoods and attractions. After all, the city is best enjoyed with a spirit of adventure, paired with a sensible approach to personal safety.