Are there any parts of Manhattan to avoid?
Manhattan, one of the main boroughs of New York City, is a very active and lively area with a lot of famous landmarks, museums, and multifarious districts. The city is generally friendly to dwellers and guests alike, but some spots may require more care and more attention. Do you think there are parts of Manhattan to avoid? This blog is dedicated to the safety of Manhattan and through it, you will find out the areas that demand your caution as well as get some helpful advice for being safe in the city.
Understanding Safety in Manhattan
Over the last few decades, Manhattan has been a shining example of crime rate reduction through the improvement of safety. New York has seen crime rates falling which has made it one of the best cities to live in, safety-wise. But like any other city, there are neighborhoods with a high percentage of crime or a set of different challenges that may endanger tourists.
Crime Overview
Just to give an example, violent crime is so much lower now in Manhattan than in the 1990s.
When we talk about pickpocketing and selling scams, you can meet it more on the crowded tourist areas.
Some neighborhoods are less crowded when it comes to the nights, and this sometimes implies a decline in safety and it may also be the result of some places not having good street lighting.
Neighborhoods to Approach with Caution
It is true that the major places of Manhattan are absolutely safe for traveling; nevertheless, here are some spots that tourists in particular should be very precautious in visiting:
1. East Harlem (Spanish Harlem)
For East Harlem in New York, it is very well known that it is a neighborhood, vibrant and teeming with life, and at one's disposal with great food. Withal, safety becomes a concern if most of the area is visited at night.
Safety Tips: Walk on streets that are brightly lit and don't go out alone after sunset. Cultural sites and places to eat are layers of security to that of the daytime and are usually safe at that time if you have to visit them.
2. Times Square/Theater District
Times Square is not only a must-visit place for New York City tourists but also a pit for small thefts that are usually done through pickpocketing.
Safety Tips: Keep your valuables safe and be careful with street performers or vendors who may try to fool you.
3. Financial District (After Business Hours)
The Financial District livens up due to the business it houses during the daytime but it becomes a ghost town at night after the nine-to-five office workers leave.
Safety Tips: If you are out and about after dark, choose wide, well-lit streets.
4. Central Park (At Night)
It is absolutely safe to walk and explore Central Park during the daytime but it is a completely different story in the evenings as it is big in size and has a lot of nooks and crannies.
Safety Tips: The article warns against visiting Central Park after it gets dark unless you come to a well-lighted event, or are walking in a group.
5. Koreatown/Flatiron District
During the day, tourists and locals who are venturing out are very safe in these areas. Nevertheless, during the peak hours, the frequency of such crimes increases.
Safety Tips: Refrain from using flash money in the crowd and maintain a low profile while passing them.
Safe Alternatives for Visitors
If you are one of the tourists who are looking for safe neighborhoods to go sightseeing or you are planning to stay there, then look at below possibilities for visitors:
Upper East Side: The place is more concerned with the well-being of the citizens because several families live there and it is a neighborhood that is free of crime. Besides, there you can learn about different cultural landmarks like The Met.
Upper West Side: Features tree-lined streets, museums, and close proximity to Central Park.
Battery Park City: A quiet coastal location with a beautiful view that features a low crime rate.
West Village: A delightful neighborhood with many dining choices and small boutique shops.
Tips to Follow in Manhattan to Be on the Safe Side
No matter where you are in Manhattan, these tips will definitely help you to be safe there.
Be attentive to your environment and do not overload yourself with distractions such as texting while you walk.
Carry theft-proof bags with you to protect your valuables from pickpockets.
Always choose well-lit streets with many people around during the night.
Instead of walking alone late at night, use only trusted means of transportation like yellow cabs and ride-hailing apps.
Be skeptical of accommodations—go for the accommodation that is highly-rated and has been before praised for its security.
Comfort in Manhattan
Moving around the bustling streets of Manhattan only to arrive back at your space that is both clean and well.
Knowing which parts of Manhattan require extra caution doesn’t mean avoiding them entirely—it’s about being prepared. Many areas considered "less safe" still offer unique cultural experiences worth exploring during daylight hours or with proper precautions.
Is there any place in Manhattan you should stay away from? For the most part, the majority of areas are safe, but places such as East Harlem, Times Square at night, and Central Park after dark call for extra vigilance. By being up-to-date with the latest news of these areas, and taking some common-sense precautions, you can peacefully enjoy Manhattan in its full form.
Visiting landmarks and venturing to unknown spots in NYC is possible without stress once you get ready. If you want to be comfortable during your NYC trip, trust Sparkly Maid NYC to provide the best cleaning service and offers same day cleaner so that you can focus on your trip in "The City That Never Sleeps."
