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Safety in NoMa

My 18 yo son and I will be spending a night in DC. Our hotel is on First Street NE. Is it safe to walk from the metro station to our hotel (5 min. walk) around 11 pm? Or should we skip the Metro and take an Uber to the hotel?

NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) has become a more developed and lively neighborhood in recent years, with restaurants, offices, and new residential buildings. However, like many urban areas, safety can vary depending on the time of day. Walking from the Metro station to your hotel around 11 pm is generally considered low risk for a brief 5-minute walk, but it’s always better to exercise caution, especially at night.

Here are some detailed considerations and recommendations:

  • The streets around First Street NE and the NoMa Metro are fairly well-lit and trafficked, but late at night there may be fewer pedestrians around.
  • Keep your belongings secure and avoid distractions like using your phone while walking.
  • Stick to main streets and avoid cutting through alleys or less-lit side streets.
  • If either you or your son feels uncomfortable, an Uber or Lyft is a convenient alternative and only takes a few minutes for a short trip from the Metro.

Additional safety tips:

  • Consider waiting in the Metro station until the next train or until a small group of people is leaving, then walk together.
  • If your hotel offers late-night check-in instructions or a security escort, take advantage of that service.
  • Use common sense: trust your instincts and avoid walking alone if either of you feels uneasy.
  • Check recent online reviews of the hotel or the area for current safety feedback from other guests.

In summary, the walk from NoMa Metro to a hotel on First Street NE is short and generally safe for a quick stroll at 11 pm, especially along the main streets. However, for maximum peace of mind, especially with an 18-year-old, taking a short Uber or Lyft ride is a simple and secure alternative.

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