Cleveland Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Cleveland.
Healthcare System
Cleveland has one of the finest healthcare systems in the United States, home to the Cleveland Clinic (consistently ranked among the nation's top hospitals) and University Hospitals. The U.S. operates on a private healthcare system, meaning medical care can be extremely expensive without insurance. Emergency rooms are required to treat patients regardless of ability to pay, but bills can be substantial.
Hospitals
Major hospitals include Cleveland Clinic Main Campus (9500 Euclid Ave), MetroHealth Medical Center (2500 MetroHealth Dr), and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center (11100 Euclid Ave). All have 24/7 emergency departments. Urgent care centers are available throughout the metro area for non-life-threatening issues at lower cost than emergency rooms.
Pharmacies
CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid pharmacies are abundant throughout Cleveland, many open 24 hours. Most common medications are available, though prescriptions from foreign doctors may not be honored—you'll need a U.S. prescription. Over-the-counter medications are widely available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for international visitors and advisable for domestic travelers. Medical costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world—a simple emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Ensure your insurance covers emergency medical evacuation if needed.
Healthcare Tips
- Keep a copy of your insurance card and policy number accessible at all times
- Use urgent care centers for non-emergency issues to save costs compared to emergency rooms
- Prescriptions from outside the U.S. typically cannot be filled; bring adequate medication supplies
- The Cleveland Clinic offers an international services department for travelers needing medical care
- Many hospitals require upfront payment or insurance verification for non-emergency services
- Download the Cleveland Clinic or University Hospitals app for finding nearby facilities
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Car break-ins are the most common crime affecting tourists in Cleveland, particularly in parking lots near attractions, hotels, and entertainment districts. Thieves target vehicles with visible valuables or rental car identifiers.
While less common than in some major cities, petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, on public transportation, and at major events. Thieves target distracted tourists with unsecured bags or phones.
If staying in rental properties or Airbnbs, package theft from porches is increasingly common. Less relevant for hotel guests but worth noting for those in residential areas.
Panhandling is common in downtown Cleveland, particularly near popular tourist areas. While usually non-threatening, some individuals may be persistent or make tourists uncomfortable.
While Cleveland has higher violent crime rates than the national average, this crime is concentrated in specific neighborhoods and rarely affects tourists who stay in recommended areas. Most violent crime is related to domestic disputes or gang activity in residential areas away from tourist zones.
Cleveland experiences harsh winters with heavy snow (averaging 60+ inches annually), ice, and temperatures well below freezing. Lake-effect snow can create dangerous driving conditions rapidly. Visitors unfamiliar with winter driving face increased accident risk.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals pose as parking lot attendants near popular venues, collecting parking fees but providing no legitimate service. The lot may be free or the scammer disappears with your money without providing a valid receipt.
Outside sporting events or concerts, individuals sell counterfeit or invalid tickets at inflated or discounted prices. Victims discover tickets are fake when trying to enter the venue.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something, asking for directions, creating a commotion) while an accomplice steals your belongings from your car, table, or person.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to collect for local charities, often with official-looking clipboards or ID badges. The money goes to the scammer, not any legitimate charity.
Some taxi drivers may take longer routes or claim the meter is broken, charging inflated flat rates. Unlicensed drivers may pose as legitimate taxis or rideshares.
Scammers call hotel rooms claiming to be front desk staff, saying there's a problem with your credit card and requesting card details to 'verify' your information.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation Safety
- Use rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) rather than walking late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
- The RTA HealthLine (rapid transit) is generally safe during daytime but exercise caution at night
- Rental cars should have GPS; Cleveland's street layout can be confusing with numbered streets running different directions
- Winter driving requires experience—if you're not comfortable driving in snow, use alternative transportation
- Don't leave GPS devices or rental agreements visible in parked cars
- Use valet parking at hotels and restaurants when available, especially in downtown areas
- Keep car doors locked while driving, particularly at stop lights in less-traveled areas
Neighborhood Awareness
- Stick to well-known tourist areas: Downtown, Ohio City, Tremont, University Circle, Little Italy, Coventry
- Research neighborhoods before visiting; Cleveland has distinct areas with varying safety profiles
- The Warehouse District and Flats East Bank are safe entertainment areas but stay aware late at night
- East 4th Street is a popular dining area that's well-patrolled and generally safe
- University Circle (museums, cultural attractions) is safe during operating hours but quieter at night
- Ask hotel staff or locals for current advice about specific areas you plan to visit
Event and Attraction Safety
- Major sporting events (Browns, Cavaliers, Guardians games) are well-secured but watch for pickpockets in crowds
- Arrive early to events to avoid rush and navigate security more easily
- Know your exit routes at large venues in case of emergency
- Keep tickets and ID secure but accessible for venue entry
- Be cautious of intoxicated individuals leaving sporting events, particularly Browns games
- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Great Lakes Science Center areas are safe during operating hours
Personal Security
- Don't flash expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables you don't need daily
- Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly
- Trust your instincts—if a situation feels unsafe, leave immediately
- Keep phone charged and consider a portable charger for emergencies
- Avoid wearing headphones that prevent you from hearing your surroundings
Accommodation Safety
- Choose hotels in safe neighborhoods: Downtown, University Circle, Beachwood, Westlake
- Use door locks, deadbolts, and security latches provided in hotel rooms
- Don't open your door without verifying who's there through the peephole
- Keep your room number private; don't announce it in public areas
- For Airbnb/vacation rentals, read reviews carefully and verify safety features
- Check that windows and balcony doors lock properly
- Know the location of emergency exits and fire extinguishers on your floor
Health and Wellness
- Tap water in Cleveland is safe to drink and meets all federal standards
- Carry any prescription medications in original containers with labels
- Know the location of nearest urgent care or hospital to your accommodation
- If you have serious allergies, carry an EpiPen and inform dining establishments
- Wash hands frequently, especially during cold/flu season (October-March)
- Cleveland has high-quality medical care but it's expensive—keep insurance information accessible
- Dress appropriately for weather to avoid cold-related illnesses in winter
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit, busy locations rather than standalone machines on streets
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card freezes
- Carry minimal cash; credit cards are accepted almost everywhere
- Use contactless payment when possible to minimize card handling
- Be discreet when accessing money or checking valuables
- Keep emergency cash separate from your regular wallet
- Monitor bank accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Cleveland is generally safe for women travelers who take standard urban precautions. The city is progressive and women traveling alone are common and not unusual. Sexual harassment is less common than in some major cities, though women should remain aware of their surroundings, particularly in bars and nightlife areas. The Midwest culture tends to be friendly but respectful. Solo women travelers should feel comfortable visiting Cleveland's major attractions, dining alone, and exploring during daylight hours.
- Stay in well-populated areas, especially after dark; downtown, Ohio City, and Tremont are good choices
- Use rideshare services rather than walking alone late at night, even in generally safe areas
- When at bars or clubs, watch your drinks and don't accept drinks from strangers
- Trust your instincts—if someone makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation
- Book accommodations with 24-hour front desk service for added security
- Share your location with friends/family when meeting new people or exploring unfamiliar areas
- The West Side Market and University Circle museums are excellent for solo exploration during operating hours
- Join group tours for activities like brewery tours or food walks to meet other travelers
- Dress practically for weather rather than worrying about modesty—Cleveland has no restrictive dress expectations
- Hotel bars and restaurants are safe places to dine alone; staff are accustomed to solo travelers
- Keep your phone charged and consider carrying a portable charger
- If someone is bothering you, don't hesitate to ask staff, security, or other women for assistance
- Women-specific safety apps like Noonlight can provide extra peace of mind
LGBTQ+ Travelers
LGBTQ+ rights are protected in Cleveland and Ohio has legalized same-sex marriage (federal law since 2015). Cleveland has specific non-discrimination ordinances protecting LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The city is generally progressive and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers.
- The Tremont and Detroit Shoreway neighborhoods have LGBTQ+-friendly bars, restaurants, and businesses
- Cleveland's Pride celebration in June is a major event with parades, festivals, and parties
- LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland (6600 Detroit Ave) offers resources and information
- Metro Health System and Cleveland Clinic have LGBTQ+-inclusive healthcare services
- Downtown hotels and major chains are uniformly welcoming and professional
- The Bop Stop, Twist Social Club, and other venues in Ohio City/Tremont are LGBTQ+-friendly
- While urban Cleveland is accepting, exercise more discretion in distant suburbs or rural areas
- Same-sex couples should have no issues booking hotel rooms or accommodations
- Cleveland's theater and arts scene (Playhouse Square, museums) is very LGBTQ+-inclusive
- Dating apps are commonly used and safe in Cleveland, though take standard precautions when meeting people
- Ask hotel concierge or local LGBTQ+ establishments for current recommendations on nightlife and events
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for all visitors to Cleveland, particularly international travelers. The United States has the world's most expensive healthcare system, and a single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars. A serious medical emergency requiring hospitalization could result in bills exceeding $100,000. Even minor injuries or illnesses can be financially devastating without insurance. Additionally, Cleveland's harsh winter weather frequently causes flight cancellations and delays, making trip interruption coverage valuable. The cost of comprehensive travel insurance is minimal compared to potential medical bills or trip disruption costs.
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