Downtown safety - walking 0.2 miles from light rail station.
Will arrive at bwi about 6pm on a Friday night, taking light rail to inner harbor area and walking 0.2 miles to hotel. Is this ok to do alone— would you do it as a petite woman?
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is generally considered one of the safer areas in downtown, particularly around the tourist-heavy zones, restaurants, and hotels. Walking 0.2 miles from the Light Rail station to your hotel on a Friday evening is usually fine, but like any city, standard precautions are important.
Considerations for safety:
- Stick to well-lit streets and main thoroughfares. The Inner Harbor area has good lighting and moderate pedestrian traffic on Friday evenings.
- Avoid distractions like using your phone while walking, and keep belongings secure and close to your body.
- Be aware of your surroundings; even in safer areas, opportunistic crime can happen.
- If you feel uneasy, consider asking the hotel if they offer a security escort from the station or request a rideshare for such a short distance—often just a couple of dollars and adds peace of mind.
Additional tips specifically for solo female travelers:
- Trust your instincts—if the street or route looks empty or isolated, consider taking a slightly longer, busier route.
- Dress comfortably and carry a small flashlight or use your phone flashlight if needed for visibility.
- Share your location with a friend or family member if walking alone.
- Walking in a group or alongside other pedestrians is always preferable when possible.
Overall, many petite women and solo travelers do walk this route without issues, especially during daylight or early evening hours. Being cautious, using common sense, and planning your route ahead of time will make the walk manageable and safe.
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