Is Grand Rapids Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Grand Rapids is a city in the northern United States in the state of Michigan, is the second-largest city in Michigan and the first largest in the western part of the state. Located on the Grand River, which flows into Lake Michigan.

Warnings & Dangers in Grand Rapids

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Grand Rapids is not the safest city, however, by taking precautions, you can travel here without fear. Be attentive to your surroundings and avoid areas far from the city center.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is well developed. You can use it to move around the city and the suburbs. However, it can be unsafe here at night. Use a taxi to return to your hotel at night.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpockets are found in crowded places, bazaars, and train stations. Watch your pockets in these places, especially closely. Use an anti-theft backpack to carry your belongings.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

This area has a slight risk of natural disasters, and it is one of the safest places in terms of natural disasters. However, stay informed about the weather before your trip here.

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Armed assaults and robberies sometimes happen in Grand Rapids. Avoid dark streets, do not get into drunken fights, and not stay out late in bars. Contact the police if an incident has occurred with you.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

The risk of terrorism is moderate in this region. It cannot be ruled out that attacks are possible both on the authorities and on civilians. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.

SCAMS RISK : LOW

The most common fraud in this city is an attempt to find out your personal data and your card details. Avoid passing on this information via SMS, email, or calls from strangers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women traveling alone should be careful, especially at night. Use a taxi to get around and avoid poorly lit streets in the city.

How Safe Is Grand Rapids for Tourists?

Grand Rapids is not the safest city to travel to.

The crime index here ranges from low to medium.

The main problems are associated with attacks, robberies, vandalism, and drug trafficking.

Dangerous neighborhoods in Grand Rapids according to data: The Black Hills, South East Community, Madison Area, Oakdale, Roosevelt Park, Baxter, South Hill, Garfield Park, West Grand, Fuller Avenue.

It’s better to avoid them while traveling.

Areas remote from the city center and poorly lit streets are unsafe, and you can usually find scammers or bandits there.

Avoid these areas, stay only in the center, and in crowded places.

If you are traveling by car, always lock it well, do not leave valuables inside, and park in guarded parking lots.

Pickpockets can be found in bazaars and public transport.

Carry things in an anti-theft backpack and keep an eye on your pockets.

Be on the lookout for anyone asking for or offering help.

Usually, such people will try to steal your wallet.

Use common sense when walking around town.

At night, it is better to travel by car or taxi.

Grand Rapids is generally a calm city, but there can be nuances if you are careless and get involved in drunken fights.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Grand Rapids?

Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Grand Rapids?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).

How's the Weather like in Grand Rapids?

In Grand Rapids, the summers are warm and partly cloudy, and the winters are freezing, dry, windy, and mostly cloudy. The best times to visit Grand Rapids for ideal weather are May to October.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Grand Rapids?

Gerald R. Ford International Airport is a commercial airport in Cascade Township, 21 km southeast of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The airport is the largest commercial airport in the West Michigan region and is the second largest airport in Michigan after Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

The 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 Grand Rapids?

Grand Rapids is the second-largest city in the state of Michigan and lies next to the majestic Grand River that rages past in this beautiful part of the United States. Grand Rapids has a wealth of art museums and galleries and hosting annual art competitions and even outdoor exhibits like a sculpture park.

Is the Water in Grand Rapids Safe to Drink?

Grand Rapids municipal drinking water contains low toxic levels, but it’s not recommended to drink it.

Is Uber Safe in Grand Rapids?

There is an Uber taxi in Grand Rapids. The fare will depend on trip length and time of the day. You can call a taxi from the app on a smartphone.