Is Columbus Safe for Travel in 2024?

Columbus, United States
Safety Score
64

Columbus is the state capital and the most populous city in the U.S. state of Ohio. With a population estimated at 903,852 as of the 2020 US census, it is the 14th-most populous city in the U.S., the second-most populous city in the Midwest after Chicago, and the third-most populous state capital. Columbus is the county seat of Franklin County; it also extends into Delaware and Fairfield counties. 

Warnings & Dangers in Columbus

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

You need to take special precautions in this city, watch out for your belongings and surroundings, and do not walk alone late at night.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpocketing happens just like everywhere else - in the area of train stations, in the main squares, and in places where tourists gather. Always keep track of your belongings, do not leave your wallet and phone unattended.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Columbus is prone to earthquakes, floods, and wildfires. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of serious robbery and armed attack in Columbus is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and do not walk late at night in areas remote from the city center.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Columbus. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : LOW

The most common scams in Columbus are related to street beggars. Be suspicious of anyone who asks or offers you help.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Columbus. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Columbus for Tourists?

Columbus is a relatively safe city to travel to.

The crime index here ranges from low to medium.

The main problems are related to vandalism, drug trafficking, and petty theft.

Most violent crimes take place in places that are not visited by tourists.

Therefore, it is important for travelers to stick to tourist spots and beware of places far from the center and with poor lighting.

By law, vehicles must give way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings.

However, the law is not universally enforced.

Watch the traffic turn when crossing streets.

Violent crime sometimes occurs in areas on the east side of the city along Livingston Avenue, Main Street, and Mount Vernon between Parsons and Kwass Creek.

These areas should be avoided at night.

Use common sense and don’t shine with a lot of jewelry and money.

Do not leave your belongings unattended, and keep an eye on your phone and wallet – petty thefts often happen even in a cafe.

Be careful on the roads, especially if you are driving or on pedestrian crossings – the drivers sometimes drive very roughly.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Columbus?

The visa policy of the United States consists of the requirements for foreign nationals to travel to, enter, and remain in the United States. Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the U.S. diplomatic missions unless they come from one visa-exempt or Visa Waiver Program country. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Columbus?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States and its territories. It is divided into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in Columbus?

In Columbus, the summers are long, warm, and humid; the winters are short, very cold, and windy, and partly cloudy year-round. Like other cities in the Midwest or the Northeast, conventional wisdom would indicate the best time to visit between mid-June to mid-September.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Columbus?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport is an international airport located 9.7 km east of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Formerly known as Port Columbus International Airport, it is managed by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, overseeing operations at Rickenbacker International Airport and Bolton Field. The airport code ‘CMH’ stands for “Columbus Municipal Hangar,” the original name for the airport.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Columbus?

The world-class Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a delight at any time of the year. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens combine gardening and art with an impressive greenhouse, stunning garden campus, and sculptures dotted throughout. Scott’s Miracle-Gro Foundation’s new kindergarten aims to introduce children to the natural world. The Columbus Museum of Art offers solar galleries with rotating exhibits and an open-air sculpture garden.

Is the Water in Columbus Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Columbus?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.

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