19 Areas to Avoid in Maryland, USA [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Welcome to the vibrant state of Maryland, a place I’ve had the joy of exploring as a traveler keen on experiencing its rich history and stunning landscapes. However, as in any destination, being aware of the areas to avoid in Maryland is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. While much of this charming state is welcoming and serene, certain spots can be less than favorable for an unwary tourist.

Having chatted with friendly locals and done my share of sightseeing, I’ve discovered that it’s not just about the must-see attractions, but also about knowing which corners to steer clear of in Baltimore. These areas can range from neighborhoods with higher crime rates to locales that just don’t offer much in terms of activities or local culture.

Trust me, with a savvy guide to the regions that might not make it onto your postcard, you can focus on creating memorable experiences—from the bustling streets of Baltimore to the scenic shores of the Chesapeake Bay. So let’s dive into the knowledge that will keep your Maryland adventures both thrilling and secure.

 

1. Ocean City

Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Ocean City is Maryland’s beloved beach haven known for its vibrant boardwalk and family-friendly attractions. While enjoying your stay, it’s helpful to be informed about which neighborhoods in Maryland are less safe, including certain areas in Ocean City. Especially late at night when crowds disperse, some streets may become less secure. It’s wise for visitors to remain vigilant, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid wandering alone after dark in less populated or poorly illuminated parts of the town to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Travelers should exercise common sense and heed local advice on areas to avoid, keeping their Ocean City adventures positive and memorable.

 

2. Elkton

Turning our attention slightly inland, Elkton in Cecil County is highlighted as one of the Maryland areas to avoid when discussing regions necessitating vigilance due to safety concerns. This quaint town, overflowing with history and cradled by the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay, unfortunately also grapples with safety issues, especially in neighborhoods with heightened crime rates.

Visitors should take care to stay in well-populated regions, particularly after dusk, and maintain a keen awareness of their surroundings. Local insights are invaluable, so don’t hesitate to ask residents or law enforcement for guidance on which areas are best avoided.

 

3. Cambridge

Continuing our Maryland journey, Cambridge beckons as a noteworthy stop on the Eastern Shore with its rich maritime heritage and scenic waterways. While Cambridge is filled with culture and charm, certain areas do require a bit of caution. As with any location, awareness of Maryland danger zones is beneficial for visitors to ensure their safety.

The town’s diverse offerings can be fully enjoyed when visitors stick to well-trodden paths and follow the guidance of locals on where to tread carefully, especially after dark. So, immerse yourself in the flavors and sites of Cambridge, but always keep an eye on personal safety for a truly splendid visit.

 

4. Hyattsville

Next up is Hyattsville, an eclectic suburb with a vibrant arts scene just outside the nation’s capital. While Hyattsville boasts a growing community of artists and local businesses, it is wise to take note of its varied neighborhoods. Be aware that certain parts of Hyattsville fall under the category of Maryland neighborhoods with high crime rates, so it’s important to stay in well-lit, busier areas.

Lean on local knowledge for the best spots to explore and those to bypass, ensuring your venture into Hyattsville remains a delightful experience. The city’s charm and culture are yours to enjoy when you stay aware and stick to the recommended paths.

 

5. Salisbury

As you soak up Salisbury’s fusion of historical charm, retail therapy, and scenic river walks, keep to the well-populated, illuminated spots at nightfall, taking particular care as some neighborhoods to steer clear of can be similar to other high-crime areas in Maryland. For the most current guidance of which specific spots to avoid, it’s a good idea to seek insight from those who know the area best. Salisbury’s inviting community and lively town center can be fully savored with a cautious and informed mindset when it comes to urban exploration.

 

6. Laurel

Continuing our journey through Maryland, let’s chat about Laurel, a city that blends historic charm with a dash of suburban life. While much of Laurel is welcoming, visitors should be aware of Maryland neighborhoods to steer clear of. Consult with residents about which spots to exercise caution in.

Laurel’s Main Street area is a hub of activity with quaint shops and eateries, but when exploring further afield, stick to well-lit streets and populous settings. Keep your wits about you and engage with the local community for a pleasant Maryland experience.

 

7. Bladensburg

Continuing our Maryland exploration, Bladensburg is enriched with history, once a bustling port town, it now showcases a quieter side of suburban life. However, like any place with pockets of high-risk streets in Maryland, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings. While Bladensburg has a strong sense of community, certain areas may warrant extra caution.

Engage with friendly locals for insights on areas to be mindful of, especially after dark. The town’s historic Waterfront Park is a daytime highlight. When venturing through, prioritize well-traveled routes and enjoy the local charm responsibly.

 

8. La Plata

Venturing La Plata, Maryland, you’ll find a small-town atmosphere where Southern Maryland’s charm meets modern convenience. While generally serene, as with any locale, some areas, similar to Maryland’s least safe neighborhoods, are better left unexplored after dusk. La Plata’s welcoming ambiance typically prevails, but it’s best to stick to the central parts and busier streets for evening outings.

Local advice is a treasure here—engage with residents who are usually more than willing to share tips on spots to avoid. By doing so, your visit can be both safe and enjoyable. The town’s main thoroughfare offers a variety of shops and restaurants, reflecting La Plata’s friendly character.

 

9. Cumberland

Cumberland, nestled in the scenic backdrop of Maryland’s western mountains, carries its own blend of allure and caution. This historic city, with its beautiful downtown and heritage spots, exudes an old-world charm. However, much like the Maryland cities with high crime statistics, certain pockets of Cumberland are less advisable to visit, especially after darkness falls.

Locals are a great source of knowledge and are generally friendly, and willing to direct you to safer zones and places of interest. They’ll guide you away from spots that might be less secure or less traveled. Embrace Cumberland’s beauty during the day, and plan your night-time activities closer to the vibrant city center.

 

10. Aberdeen

Aberdeen, Maryland, with its close-knit community and scenic landscapes, adds to the tapestry of charm that one finds in Maryland. It’s a place where families and the military mix, thanks to the proximate Aberdeen Proving Ground. Though Aberdeen is predominantly welcoming, it’s prudent to stay vigilant, as with Maryland’s no-go zones, and exercise caution in certain desolate areas after sunset.

The city’s charm is best enjoyed by day when streets are lively, and local parks bustle with activity. Friendly locals are usually on hand to point out any places that might be less advisable for an evening stroll. Keep your nocturnal adventures to the well-lit and populated parts of town, and you’ll capture the essence of Aberdeen’s appeal.

 

11. Hagerstown

Hagerstown, Maryland, gracefully combines its rich history with modern-day living. As the sun dips, though, it is important to be mindful of potential danger spots in Maryland, staying within well-lit regions and avoiding areas that are less secure after dark. The city’s historic center is lively by day, but it’s wise to stay within well-lit areas come nightfall.

Locals in Hagerstown are often eager to share their insights, guiding visitors to enjoy the safer, vibrant spots after dark. They know their town well and can help you navigate away from less secure neighborhoods. Enjoying Hagerstown’s charm safely means savoring the bustling daytime vibe and sticking to the bright, bustling parts when the stars are out.

 

12. Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland, offers a unique blend of urban dynamism and historical allure. The city boasts waterfront views and cultural landmarks that capture the hearts of visitors and locals alike. During daylight, neighborhoods like Inner Harbor buzz with energy and provide safe, picturesque experiences.

However, like any major city, Baltimore has areas that are less advisable to visit after dark. To steer clear of high-crime neighborhoods in Baltimore, venture with care and stay within the well-lit, frequented parts of town to fully enjoy the charm of Baltimore at night. Chat with locals—they’re often happy to share the safest spots to experience the city’s vibrant evening scene.

 

13. Dundalk

Dundalk in Maryland carries with it a past shaped by working-class roots and an indomitable community spirit. By day, it teems with local charm, offering modest dining spots and shopping locales. When night falls, the picture shifts slightly, with some neighborhoods emerging as Maryland safety concerns for travelers, urging a bit more caution for those unfamiliar with the area.

It’s not uncommon to hear advice from residents suggesting which streets to tread after sunset. They are knowledgeable about the spots that maintain a sense of security in the evenings. Following their guidance allows you to appreciate Dundalk without worry, embracing the town’s genuine character in the safer enclaves.

 

14. Edgewood

Edgewood, Maryland, is a community with contrasts, vibrant by daylight and quieter come nightfall. It’s a place where being streetwise after dark is advisable, particularly as some parts of the Old Line State can have unsafe sections. The area, while having its share of everyday hustle, tends to be less active at night, which might give some visitors pause.

Locals suggest sticking to well-lit areas and major thoroughfares if you find yourself out late. Following their counsel enables visitors to navigate Edgewood safely, ensuring that they can still take in the local ambiance without unnecessary concerns. Friendly reminders never hurt when exploring unfamiliar places.

 

15. Essex

Essex, Maryland, unfolds as a neighborhood with its own distinct rhythm, bustling during the day with local shops and eateries. At night, the vibe changes, with some areas known as red-flag areas in Maryland, best to approach with mindfulness. It’s woven with streets that carry a tapestry of community tales, some of which caution the solo traveler after dusk.

Friendly Essex locals often share insights, pointing you towards the well-trodden paths for your evening strolls. They’ll highlight the importance of staying aware and suggest the friendlier nocturnal spots. Heed their advice to experience Essex’s unique charm, blending prudence with the pleasure of discovery.

 

16. Glen Burnie

Glen Burnie, Maryland, is a hub of suburban activity, bustling by day with a diverse mix of communities. As the sun sets and the evening takes hold, the picture shifts, drawing a curtain of quiet over most neighborhoods. It’s a place where awareness is your closest companion when out after dusk, particularly as some areas are noted in Maryland tourist advisories for requiring extra vigilance.

Local wisdom points to a handful of spots where extra caution is warranted at night. Engaging with the community can offer a roadmap to safer passages and areas to enjoy Glen Burnie’s nighttime charm. Listen to the residents who are eager to guide visitors on a secure journey through their town.

 

17. Langley Park

Langley Park, Maryland, wraps you in a cultural kaleidoscope by day, where markets bustle with life and global cuisine scents the air. Yet, as twilight descends, a change is palpable, urging a traveler’s careful step. It’s wise to mingle with the locals, who are well-versed in avoiding the less savory locales in Maryland and can direct you to well-lit streets and areas bustling with friendly night owls.

This community’s character shifts after dark, so heed the advice of those who know it best. They’ll steer clear of any trouble spots while still letting you absorb the genuine spirit of Langley Park at night. Staying alert and informed can make all the difference in enjoying the locale safely.

 

18. Suitland

Suitland, Maryland greets you with a patchwork of history and modernity during daylight, a place where community threads interweave to form a vibrant tapestry. As nightfall cloaks the sky, though, this patchwork becomes harder to discern. Navigating Suitland after hours calls for mindful strides and a tuned-in sense of surroundings, especially when avoiding the insecure regions in Maryland that emerge under the veil of darkness.

Conversations with the locals can be your beacon, highlighting streets that maintain a hum of activity well into the night. They’ll share nuggets of wisdom that point you towards the communal hearths, steering clear of silent stretches where vigilance is paramount. Embrace Suitland’s nocturnal nuances with a local’s insight, and your experience will be enriched and safeguarded.

 

19. Westminster

Westminster, Maryland, a charming blend of historic allure and countryside peace, welcomes you with open arms by day. With its quaint streets and college-town vibrancy, it’s a portrait of community warmth. As dusk falls, though, it’s prudent for travelers to navigate with care, particularly steering clear of the few unsavory locales in Maryland that every area has. Keep to the well-lit avenues bustling with local foot traffic.

Touch base with Westminster’s residents for guidance; they’re eager to point you to the lively places and will advise on quieter corners to avoid when night spreads its cloak. Their knowledge is the key to a delightful visit, ensuring you bask in Westminster’s nightly allure while circumventing less inviting areas.

 

Conclusion

Navigating through Maryland, one must be mindful of areas to avoid for the sake of safety and peace of mind. As we’ve explored, some neighborhoods, unfortunately, stand out for their higher rates of crime and social challenges. It’s imperative for travelers and residents alike to stay informed and exercise caution when venturing into areas that might disrupt their experience of Maryland’s charm and vibrant culture. However, if you’re looking for engaging activities in Baltimore, make sure to choose the safer parts of the city to explore its rich offerings.

Remembering the areas to avoid in Maryland is not about casting shadows on the state’s beauty, but rather ensuring that your visit or daily life is as enjoyable and secure as possible. Whether you’re here to soak in the rich history, indulge in the seafood delicacies, or simply bask in the picturesque views of the Chesapeake Bay, being vigilant and informed is your passport to making the most of Maryland’s endless treasures. Stay curious, but also stay safe as you discover all that this state has to offer!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some general safety tips for visiting Maryland?

Always stay aware of your surroundings, travel in groups when possible, avoid dimly lit or deserted areas at night, keep your belongings secure, and familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and contact numbers. It’s also a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit in advance.

Are there any specific neighborhoods in Maryland that are considered particularly dangerous?

The article may not have specified neighborhoods due to changes over time, but it’s commonly advised to exercise caution in areas with high crime rates. West Baltimore, some parts of East Baltimore, and areas within Prince George’s County have reputations for higher crime. However, crime can happen anywhere, so always stay vigilant.

Can I rely on public transportation in Maryland safely?

Public transportation in Maryland is generally safe, but it’s important to keep an eye on your personal belongings and stay alert, especially when traveling at night or in less frequented areas. Try to use well-lit, busy stops and remain aware of the people around you.

How can I find out which areas to avoid in Maryland during my visit?

It is recommended to check the latest local news updates, speak with your hotel concierge or local residents, and review crime maps or statistics provided by local police departments or online resources. Mobile apps or travel forums may also offer real-time insights on areas to avoid.

What should I do if I find myself in an unsafe area in Maryland?

If you find yourself in an area that feels unsafe, trust your instincts and leave as quickly and calmly as possible. If necessary, find a public place such as a store or restaurant where you can ask for help. Always have your mobile phone charged and ready to contact emergency services if you feel threatened.