Is Superior Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Superior, Wisconsin, is part of a bi-state area known as the Twin Ports at the southwestern edge of Lake Superior.

The Saint Louis River runs between Minnesota and Wisconsin, with Duluth on the western side and Superior on the eastern edge.

To get the most out of a visit here, read my article “How Safe Is Duluth for Travel?”

Founded in the mid-19th century, it quickly became a major hub due to its natural harbor, connecting railroads, and the lumber and shipping industries.

As one of the Great Lakes’ important ports, Superior and Duluth have a fascinating industrial heritage that’s still evident in the old rail yards, shipping docks, and architectural gems around town.

While enjoying the lakefront views, historical sites, and unique shops and restaurants is enough justification for a visit, you also get easy access to the Apostle Islands.

While Superior is a four-season destination, most visitors arrive between late spring and early fall to enjoy the waterways, sea caves, and festivals before the doldrums of winter kick in.

However, winter visitors will be pleasantly surprised about the things to do, especially considering the dump of snow this area gets each year.

Warnings & Dangers in Superior

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There's a low risk in Superior and a lot of great outdoor activities to plan on land and water. We'll help you with top safety advice throughout this article.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Superior gets public transportation primarily through the Duluth Transit Authority (DTA), which runs buses connecting Superior with Duluth, Minnesota, and local stops within the city. Taxis and rideshares are readily available between the cities as well. Plus, you can also get a rental car. All options are low-risk.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Over the past five years, Superior had six pickpockets or purse snatching, which means this is a low risk. However, theft rates are high. Since people capable of theft will be around you, be sure to implement the best safety practices.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Severe thunderstorms, windstorms, and winter storms give this area a medium risk since the potential is there year-round. While tornadoes are rare, they shouldn't be ruled out in the spring or summer. You'll lower the risk by staying on top of weather forecasts and heeding safety advice.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Over the past five years, just two muggings were reported in Superior. That's a low risk, but don't ever let that type of information cause you to let your guard down.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

As a critical port city, it's a medium risk, which is almost immediately negated by the extra security and overnight from local, state, national, and international agencies. You can also check the latest Terrorism Advisory Bulletin on the Douglas County Emergency Management website.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. Superior Police also provide "Quick Tips Against Identity Theft & Scams" on their website.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Statistically, women are slightly more likely to be victims of violent crime in Superior. However, about 93% of those are domestic situations. The risk is low, and this is a place where young women, seniors, moms, and multi-generation families can enjoy adventures.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 report for Superior shows full compliance and no violations.

Safest Places to Visit in Superior

The Superior Chamber of Commerce has a website with some helpful information, but the official tourism site is titled “Gotta Be Superior.”

You can download a free visitor’s guide, but you’ll be asked to give your name and email address.

It’s important to understand the districts and neighborhoods while still respecting that this is a port town first and foremost.

Much of the waterfront is dedicated to industry.

• The Downtown area is historic, with local shops, dining, and the city’s cultural spots.
• Barker’s Island is a key part of Superior, located right on the waterfront and known for its recreational attractions.
• Billings Park is a scenic residential neighborhood along the St. Louis River, known for its parks and family-friendly vibe.
• The East End is the oldest section of the city, close to many attractions and a beloved residential community.
• South Superior has more industrial spaces with some residential pockets.

Fairlawn Mansion and Museum is a standout; it’s a grand Victorian mansion built in 1889 by Martin Pattison, a lumber and mining magnate.

Later, it served as a children’s home.

Tours are available year-round.

Another gem is the SS Meteor Maritime Museum on Barker’s Island, which is the last remaining whaleback freighter.

Tours are available seasonally when the weather is warm.

NOTE: The SS Meteor tours require climbing ladders and stairs.

Check the dress code for safety.

The Old Firehouse and Police Museum, set in an 1898 firehouse, offers a different kind of history with its displays of vintage firefighting equipment and police memorabilia.

It’s a unique spot for those interested in Wisconsin’s public safety heritage.

The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is named after America’s top World War II flying ace, Richard Bong, and includes a P-38 Lightning fighter plane along with artifacts honoring veterans.

You’ll have a barrel of fun at A World of Accordions Museum, a quirky, one-of-a-kind collection featuring over 1,300 accordions from around the world.

I won’t get too specific about the outdoor activities, as there are just so many options.

Let’s take a general look.

If you want to enjoy the lake, you can rent a boat or grab a paddle and explore.

Fishing charters are also available.

Wisconsin Point is a stunning natural area with miles of sandy beach along Lake Superior.

Be sure to make it all the way down to the entry observation area, where you’ll get lighthouse views and the chance to see ships coming and going through the entry channel.

You can also choose to explore more waterways nearby, like the St. Croix River (a National Scenic Riverway), Brule River, and St. Louis River Estuary.

More outdoor activities await at Mont du Lac Resort, with fall foliage trails, skiing and snowboarding, and a summer waterpark.

Around the region, you’ll find parks and trails designed for mountain bikes, hikers, or ATV riders.

Some of those transition to cross-country skiing or snowboarding in the winter.

Places to Avoid in Superior

You won’t find bad parts of town or dangerous neighborhoods in Superior.

In addition, the main hotels are near downtown, the water, or close to the bridge to Duluth.

Winter is a whole new beast in Wisconsin and Minnesota, especially if you’re used to mild winters.

You should learn about the Lake Superior Snowbelt, which can drastically impact how much snow falls in certain parts of the state.

Cities within the Snowbelt see twice as much snow in an average year.

While Superior gets a lot of snow, it’s not one of the cities most impacted by the Snowbelt.

Finally, avoid planning a trip to Isle Royale National Park between November 1 and April 15.

It’s the only national park that closes half the year because the weather is too dangerous.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Superior

So... How Safe Is Superior Really?

The violent crime rate in Superior is 25% lower than the state average and 45% lower than the national average.

The risk is further lowered by the fact that just 8% of violent crimes over the past five years involved a stranger.

Most crimes here are between people who know each other.

Theft rates are 25% higher than the national average, with half of those being attributed to shoplifting.

I’m not sure what it is about shoplifting in Wisconsin, but it seems to be the biggest theft problem in most cities.

Either that or the police really have zero tolerance for shoplifters.

Even car break-ins in Superior break down to about one a week, on average.

At UW Superior, no violent crimes were reported in 2023, and there were just nine thefts.

Drug and narcotics violations were the most common criminal reports, numbering 26 in 2023.

Those wondering if Superior is safer than Duluth, there’s not a perfect answer.

Duluth is larger and has a reputation for being more crime-ridden.

However, data transparency was an issue when pulling together that information.

Neither one stands out as being better or worse.

However, Duluth is very hilly, which can be a challenge in winter.

Superior is also the quieter side of the Twin Ports.

In either instance, you should have no concerns and only hopeful plans when visiting this beautiful lakeside region.

How Does Superior Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

Superior, Wisconsin, has a cool climate, with winter lows often dipping below 0°F and highs averaging around 22°F. Summers are mild, with highs reaching the upper 70s. Annual snowfall can exceed 60 inches, making winter long and intense. Pack layers for changing weather conditions throughout the year, with waterproof outer layers and bug spray in the warm months.

Airports

The closest commercial airport to Superior is Duluth International Airport (DLH), just 12 miles away in Duluth, Minnesota, offering flights on major airlines. Another option is Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 160 miles south. MSP has a broader range of flights and international destinations.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind. Look at adventure insurance if you plan to do extreme activities.

Superior Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City