Is Louisville Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Louisville is the largest city in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the 29th most populous city in the United States. Louisville is the historical seat and, since 2003, the nominal seat of Jefferson County, on the Indiana border.

Warnings & Dangers in Louisville

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Louisville is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

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 : 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 : MEDIUM

The possibility of the area being flooded during rainy days is high, and you need to get familiar with the current situations, especially if you plan to explore the surroundings.

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

In the suburbs of Louisville, local gangs' showdowns take place, during these showdowns, there are shootings and kidnappings. Avoid these areas and don't get involved with drugs.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

The region has become a target for terrorist attacks in the past, so this risk cannot be completely ruled out. Study the political environment and news before your visit here.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

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

How Safe Is Louisville for Tourists?

Louisville is a relatively safe city.

The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are related to vandalism and drug trafficking.

Most of Louisville is pretty safe.

Probably the least safe areas are west of Ninth Street (unfortunately, this is where the Greyhound bus station is located).

Professional crooks acting as beggars are common at the station, and while they are not very aggressive or rude, they are persistent.

Pickpockets are also a problem, as they often grab things from the side pockets of any bags or wallets you may have.

In addition, there have been several robbery attempts directly outside the terminal (the station’s security was shockingly lethargic and useless in such situations, at least until the metro police arrived), so be very careful.

However, a day trip through this part of the city in Portland and then on Northwest Boulevard is very interesting and not dangerous at all.

The area around Churchill Downs is also relatively sketchy, but again, just passing through during the day is not dangerous.

There is practically no crime to the east of the Highland. Crime is still low in the Highlands, but be careful getting out of the bars on Baxter Avenue if you’re alone.

The same advice applies to Old Louisville, only more so. Beyond that, just use your common sense, wherever you are.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Louisville?

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

Which Currency Is Used in Louisville?

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 Louisville?

In Louisville, the summers are hot and muggy, the winters are very cold and wet, and it is partly cloudy year-round. The temperature typically varies from 28°F to 88°F and is rarely below 12°F or above 94°F.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Louisville?

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport is a civil-military airport in Louisville in Jefferson County, Kentucky. The airport covers 6.1 km² and has three runways.

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 Louisville?

Anyone who’s looking for a beautiful time in a southern city should come to Louisville. The biggest city in Kentucky, Louisville, has elements that will appeal to people who love urban environments and enjoy more rural settings.

Is the Water in Louisville Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Louisville?

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.