Lois Larson
Is it safe to take BART from the airport to Montgomery Street? This question has been asked by many travellers, especially those arriving at night. While some say that the Montgomery station is relatively safe and laid-back, others advise travellers to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when walking to their next destination from the station.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Generally safe, but be vigilant and aware of your surroundings |
| Convenience to Chinatown | Safe to walk to Chinatown, but avoid luggage as the steep grade will be exhausting |
| Convenience to W Hotel | Safe to walk, but be vigilant |
| Schedule | Trains to the airport run on a different schedule and may require transfers |
| Travel Time | Approximately 60 minutes, compared to 20 minutes by Uber |
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What You'll Learn
Montgomery Station is generally safe but be vigilant
Montgomery Station is generally considered safe, but it is always recommended to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings in any new city. While the station itself may be laid-back, with one source calling it the "most laid-back station in downtown", and another noting that "there isn't much going on in proximity to the location in terms of nightlife", it is still important to be cautious.
When taking BART from the airport to Montgomery Station, it is advised to keep your head up and be attentive. While the risk of getting stabbed is deemed low, there is a possibility of encountering mentally ill individuals or being harassed. One source mentions that taking public transportation in San Francisco and the Bay Area is a matter of risk tolerance, and that it is never completely safe or completely unsafe. This source also suggests carrying pepper spray and being vigilant, especially when near BART.
When walking from Montgomery Station to Chinatown, most sources agree that it is generally safe. One source recommends taking a slightly different route: getting off at Powell, walking through Union Square, and then straight to the Chinatown Gate. This route is said to be more festive and convenient, especially if you have luggage with you, as it can be tricky to manoeuvre through crowds. However, another source mentions that if you see three or more teenagers on scooters, you should be cautious as they are more likely to rob you.
Overall, while Montgomery Station and its surrounding area are considered relatively safe, it is always important to be vigilant and trust your instincts. Be aware of your surroundings, and don't be afraid to cross the street or find a store to enter if you feel uncomfortable or sense any potential danger.
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Avoid Powell, Civic Center, and Market Street
When travelling between Montgomery Street and the airport, it is worth noting that the BART stations between San Francisco and the airport are generally safe. However, if you are going to or coming from the Mission Street stations, it is recommended to be more cautious at night. The area is not considered high-crime, but there may be some "`sketchy`" people around.
If you are walking from the BART station, it is recommended to walk on Kearny instead of Montgomery Street, as Kearny will be busier.
Now, here is some information on why you may want to avoid Powell, Civic Center, and Market Street:
The Powell, Civic Center, and Market Street areas of San Francisco have been described as "sketchy" and "messy". There have been reports of homeless people, drug dealers, and drug users in these areas, particularly at night. While some people feel safe in these areas, others recommend avoiding them if you are concerned about safety.
If you do find yourself in these areas, it is recommended to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your phone out of sight, and try to avoid empty trains and platforms. It is also a good idea to stick to well-lit areas and walk with purpose.
In terms of cleanliness, the Civic Center BART station has been described as dirty, with reports of trash and human waste. There are also concerns about the food stands in the area, with stories of unsanitary practices.
In summary, while the Powell, Civic Center, and Market Street areas of San Francisco may not be the most dangerous, they are not the safest or cleanest either. If you can avoid these areas, especially at night, it may be wise to do so.
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Don't use your phone at the station
While taking BART from the airport to Montgomery Street, it is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. One key precaution to take is to avoid using your phone at the station and on the train. Here are some reasons why you should refrain from using your phone and how to ensure your safety:
Reasons to Avoid Using Your Phone:
- Theft and Harassment: Electronic thefts are a common problem at BART stations and on trains. Using your phone can make you a target for thieves and increase the risk of harassment. It is advisable to keep your phone tucked away and secure, especially when waiting on platforms and near train doors.
- Distraction and Risk of Accidents: Using your phone can distract you from your surroundings and increase the risk of accidents, especially near stairs, escalators, and train doors. It is important to stay focused and aware to ensure your personal safety.
- Delays in Emergency Response: In case of an emergency, using your phone to contact BART Police directly can result in delays. Calling 911 from your phone will first connect you to CHP, who will then transfer your call to BART Police dispatch. This delay can be avoided by using the pay phones available at BART stations, which connect directly to BART Police or SFPD dispatch, depending on the station.
Tips to Ensure Your Safety:
- Secure Your Belongings: Hold your phone, laptop, or purse tightly when on the platform or near train doors. Tuck your phone away when the train doors open to prevent grab-and-run thefts.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your head up and avoid looking distracted. Pay attention to your instincts and be vigilant, especially at Civic Center and Powell stations, which may have a higher risk of incidents.
- Use BART Resources: Download the BART Watch App to send private texts to BART Police dispatch. Save the number for BART Police dispatch, and know your train car number, located above the doors, to facilitate quick reporting and response.
- Report Incidents: Report any unsafe conditions or incidents to BART personnel immediately. You can also use the official BART app or website to make biohazard reports. In an emergency, follow the instructions provided by BART employees, and stay onboard the train if possible to allow the Train Operator to take appropriate actions.
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Consider a Lyft or Uber instead
If you're considering taking BART from the airport to Montgomery Street, you may want to think about getting a Lyft or Uber instead. While it's generally considered safe to take BART to Montgomery, there are a few reasons why a ride-share might be a better option for you.
First and foremost, safety. While the risk of getting stabbed is low, there is a chance you could be harassed. One person who commented on a forum post said that they carry pepper spray and are hyper-vigilant when they're near BART. They also mentioned that, after a long flight, they usually don't have the mental capacity to deal with any potential issues. If you're travelling with luggage, it can be a hassle to get it on and off the train and up and down the stairs.
Another factor to consider is time. BART trains to the airport run on a different schedule and it can take a long time to get there, potentially up to an hour. With Lyft or Uber, you can get there in about 20 minutes, and you won't have to worry about train schedules or transfers. This is especially true if you're arriving at a time when trains are less frequent, which could mean a long wait on the platform.
Cost is also a factor. While BART is cheaper (around $10), if you're travelling with a partner or a group, it might be worth the extra $20-$30 to get a Lyft or Uber, especially if it means avoiding a long wait or a potentially unpleasant experience.
Finally, if you're arriving late at night, you may feel more comfortable taking a Lyft or Uber. While the Montgomery station is relatively safe, it's always a good idea to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and some people may prefer the added security of a ride-share.
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Walking to Chinatown is safe, but avoid luggage
Taking BART from the airport to Montgomery Street is generally considered safe, but it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. While the risk of getting stabbed is deemed low, there is a chance you may encounter a mentally ill person. It is recommended to keep your head up and refrain from using your cell phone. Carrying pepper spray and adopting a vigilant mindset can also enhance your safety.
Montgomery Station is known for being relatively laid-back, and the surrounding area is mostly comprised of office buildings and the financial district. However, once you reach Market Street, it is crucial to be cautious and attentive to your environment. If you feel uncomfortable around anyone on the sidewalk, simply cross the street.
Walking from Montgomery BART Station to Chinatown is generally considered safe. One recommended route is to turn left onto Sutter Street from the station and then right onto Grant Street, which will take you straight to Chinatown. This walk offers a pleasant experience and provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
However, it is strongly advised to avoid doing this walk with luggage. The steep grade can be exhausting, and the limited walking space may pose challenges when navigating with suitcases or bulky bags. If you have luggage, consider leaving them at your hotel or using public transportation to get to Chinatown.
Additionally, it is important to be vigilant, especially if you are Asian, as there have been reports of groups of teenagers on scooters who are more likely to rob individuals. Staying off Market Street and opting for the Powell Street Station to transfer to the Central Subway can be a safer and more convenient option, as it is only one stop away from Chinatown.
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Frequently asked questions
Taking public transport in SF and the Bay Area is a matter of risk tolerance. It is never completely safe or completely unsafe. Montgomery is generally a laid-back station and there isn't much going on in terms of nightlife. However, it is always good to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
It is recommended that you do not keep your cellphone out. You can carry pepper spray and be vigilant as you get near BART.
The area around Montgomery is generally safe, but it is always good to be aware of your surroundings. If you see three or more teenagers on scooters, it is recommended to find a store or restaurant to get into as they are more likely to rob you.
