Is New York City safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for United States

What the advice says

• There is no US State Department travel advisory for this country.
• The UK FCDO notes a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including in the US, and advises staying aware of surroundings and following local authorities' guidance. Attacks could occur in crowded places, transportation networks, sporting and cultural events, places of worship, and other sites visited by tourists.
• The UK FCDO states that violent crime and gun crime rarely affect tourists, but advises caution in unfamiliar areas and against walking alone through quieter areas, especially at night. Mass shootings can happen but represent a small percentage of murders overall.
• The UK FCDO advises not leaving passports in rental cars, including the trunk, since gangs may target vehicles that appear to belong to tourists.
• The UK FCDO notes that protests are common in the US and can become violent, advising travelers to follow local authority instructions, be mindful of surroundings during gatherings, and move away if trouble arises.
• The UK FCDO reminds travelers that state laws vary across the US and apply alongside federal law, that the national legal drinking age is 21, and that penalties for illegal drugs, including cannabis, can be severe.
• This guidance reflects country-level advisories from the UK FCDO rather than city-specific conditions in New York City.