Is Clarion Hotel & Suites BWI North in a safe area?

Question

Basically, is it safe to walk to/from the light rail from this hotel.

I have a spare day during my stop-over enroute to my cruise and I want to use the time visiting some attractions using the LR.

All the other airport hotels are located too far from the LR for this to be sensible.

And whilst I am here - what's the best option for getting to the Cruise terminal

LR + bus (No. 94 apparently)

LR + Cab

Cab all the way

I'm under no time pressure (and I'll have light luggage-it's a short cruise)

Answer

The Clarion Hotel & Suites BWI North is generally located in a convenient area near the Baltimore/Washington International Airport, but like many airport areas, safety can be a concern depending on the specific neighborhood. Here's a breakdown of what to consider:

Safety of Walking to the Light Rail: The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the Light RailLink station, which makes it an appealing option for getting into Baltimore without a car. However, while the area is typically safe, it's always wise to exercise caution when walking in areas that might feel less populated. The walk itself is relatively straightforward, but depending on the time of day, it's recommended to be cautious, especially at night. It’s also good to check with the hotel for any specific safety concerns in the immediate area.
Hotel Location: While not in a high-crime area, like any location near an airport, it’s still a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings. The hotel is within walking distance to the Light RailLink, so it’s convenient for getting into the city and exploring attractions, but be mindful of the surrounding streets, especially at night.

Regarding your trip to the cruise terminal, you have several options depending on your comfort and time preferences:

Light Rail + Bus (No. 94): This is a budget-friendly option. You can take the Light RailLink from the hotel to the Baltimore Arena stop and transfer to the No. 94 bus to the cruise terminal. This is affordable but might take a little longer, depending on connections. If you don’t mind a longer commute, this option works well, especially if you’re under no time pressure.
Light Rail + Taxi: Another option is to take the Light RailLink to the Baltimore Arena stop and then grab a cab directly to the cruise terminal. This provides a bit more convenience without the need to transfer buses. It’s slightly more expensive than the bus but could be worth it if you want a quicker and more comfortable ride from the Light Rail station.
Taxi All the Way: The easiest and most direct option is taking a cab directly from the hotel to the cruise terminal. This is the most expensive option but also the most convenient, especially if you’re carrying luggage or just want to ensure a stress-free journey to your cruise.

Given that you're not under any time pressure and only have light luggage, using the Light Rail + Bus option could be a good balance between affordability and convenience. However, if you'd prefer a bit more comfort or a quicker trip, the Light Rail + Cab or a full taxi ride might be more suitable.

Enjoy your stopover and have a great cruise!