18 U.S. Cities That Should Be Off Your Travel Bucket List
While many cities in the U.S. offer unforgettable experiences, some are known for reasons that make you think twice before visiting. Whether it’s high crime rates, poor infrastructure, or general lack of appeal, there are cities you might want to avoid.
From decaying industrial hubs to struggling urban centers, here are 18 U.S. cities you should steer clear of at all costs.
Detroit, Michigan

Detroit has been in decline for decades. Once the heart of the auto industry, it now faces high crime rates and crumbling infrastructure.
St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis consistently ranks among the most dangerous cities. Its high violent crime rates make it a risky choice for travelers.
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Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore struggles with severe crime, poverty, and failing infrastructure. Its charm is overshadowed by these significant problems.
Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland faces economic stagnation and population decline. The city’s downtown offers little appeal, while its crime rate remains high.
Memphis, Tennessee

Despite its rich music history, Memphis suffers from violence and poverty. Tourist attractions can’t hide the city’s deeper issues.
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Oakland, California

Oakland has a reputation for crime and unrest. Though parts of the city are improving, its high crime rate makes it a risky visit.
Stockton, California

Stockton struggles with gang violence and financial difficulties. Visitors often find little to draw them in outside of its dangerous streets.
Camden, New Jersey

Camden has one of the highest crime rates in the U.S. It’s a city plagued by poverty, drugs, and violence, making it a no-go for travelers.
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New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans may be famous for Mardi Gras, but it’s also known for crime and corruption. Tourists are often targeted, especially in less crowded areas.
Gary, Indiana

Gary is an industrial ghost town. Its empty streets and abandoned buildings make it a hauntingly bleak place to visit.
Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham deals with high crime rates and economic struggles. While it’s steeped in civil rights history, it remains a tough place to visit safely.
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Flint, Michigan

Flint’s water crisis is infamous, but that’s not its only problem. The city also suffers from poverty, crime, and a crumbling infrastructure.
Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock has a crime problem that doesn’t match its small size. It’s a city where violence outweighs the southern charm.
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque’s high crime rate has surged in recent years. Tourists are often advised to stay vigilant or simply choose another destination.
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Fresno, California

Fresno struggles with gang activity and economic troubles. Its agricultural surroundings don’t compensate for the dangers within the city.
Shreveport, Louisiana

Shreveport has long been overshadowed by crime and poverty. Its downtown is struggling, with few attractions to draw visitors.
Jackson, Mississippi

Jackson faces crippling crime, unemployment, and failing infrastructure. It’s not the kind of southern charm most visitors are looking for.
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Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City may have barbecue, but it also has a rising crime problem. Many travelers steer clear due to its unsafe reputation.
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