Want to Take a Solo Trip? These Are the Best Places in the U.S. to Visit
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While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days.
Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list. The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S.
Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.
Saratoga Springs, New York
This beautiful upstate New York town is a short Amtrak ride from the city, so it's ideal for NYC residents looking for a quick solo escape. Watch a horse race at the historic Saratoga Race Track, jam out at a concert at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and enjoy the mineral spring baths (where the city gets its name!) at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Oh and don't miss the fabulous dining and shopping up and down Broadway.
Waco, Texas
Ideal for the Fixer Upper fan looking for a low-key getaway, the heart of Chip and Joanna Gaines's Magnolia empire is a fun Texas town that's a short drive from both Austin and Dallas. Stop at Magnolia Market for tasty treats and farmhouse chic shopping. Beyond Magnolia, there's boutique shopping, wine and beer tastings and an impressive nightlife downtown. For more fun, tour the Dr. Pepper Museum, check out the Mammoth National Monument or visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
You'll feel like the main character in a storybook in Carmel-by-the-Sea — but in addition to marveling at the fairytale-like village, there's plenty to do. You'll find the famous Pebble Beach golf course, the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the white-sand Carmel Beach all nearby. Pro tip: Carmel Bakery and The Cottage of Sweets are great treat-yourself stops.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a prime destination for art lovers, as it's home to both the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and the original Meow Wolf (an experimental, immersive art exhibit that doubles as something of a psychedelic escape room). Art galleries, antique stores and craft shops line picturesque downtown Santa Fe, which is also a great place to try New Mexico's famous red and green chiles. Don't forget to book a spa day at the Inn & Spa at Loretto.
Burlington, Vermont
If relaxation is what you crave, Burlington is a bucolic little town with a laid-back atmosphere. Saunter through the lovely Church Street Marketplace, tour the Ben & Jerry's factory, grab a cold drink at a craft brewery or take a cooking class at Essex Resort & Spa (just a short 20-minute drive away). When the weather's warm, partake in all of Lake Champlain's fun — from boating and sunbathing at the beach to hiking along the shore. Or visit during the fall, when the foliage is nothing short of superb.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff has as many activities as a big city, but with a small town vibe. It's close to natural and historical wonders, like the Grand Canyon, Walnut Canyon and the Wupatki National Monument, but you won't need a car to see them — plenty of tour operators are located in Flagstaff. If you're into space, the famous Lowell Observatory — a.k.a. where astronomers first discovered the ex-planet Pluto — is just outside of town. The city's downtown is a destination in its own right, with restaurants and bars to fill your time between adventures in the desert.
Portland, Maine
Ranked one of the 25 safest places to live by U.S. News, Portland is a pristine New England seaside city with beautiful lighthouses, an art museum and opulent Victorian mansions. Stop by any of the waterfront restaurants for the fresh catch of the day, or pop into a local brewpub for a pint.
New York City, New York
Big city energy seekers, this one's for you! Solo travelers will never run out things to do in the city that never sleeps. Visit some of the world's best museums, catch a Broadway show or join the hunt for the "best" slice of pizza or bagel in the city — both matters of some dispute. You'll need the extra carbs to explore the vast city by subway, from Central Park and Battery Park to the hipster enclaves of Brooklyn and the multi-cultural offerings of Queens.
The Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos, a mountainous region in northeastern Pennsylvania filled with ski slopes and charming small towns, is a great option for adventure and relaxation seekers alike. You'll need a car to get around, but driving through the scenery — especially in the fall — is one of the area's highlights. Hit hiking trails, like the one to Bushkill Falls, and stop at local gems, like Callie's Candy Kitchen. If you're seeking relaxation (and a spa) more than action, stay at one of the many resorts in the Poconos, like Skytop Lodge.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is best known for its historic district, filled with beautiful architecture, museums, art galleries and lush green squares — all ideal for solo exploration. Plus, the "Hostess City of the South" is a foodie paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants and cafes serving all sorts of delicious cuisine. But don't forget to make time for Southern food while you're there!
Boise, Idaho
Another one of the U.S.'s 25 safest places to live, Boise is surrounded by mountains, making it a scenic location and hiker's paradise. The city itself has quite a few green spaces, including the Idaho Botanical Garden and Camel's Back Park. On Saturdays from mid-April to mid-December, it hosts the Capital City Public Market, filled with local food and craft vendors. If you happen to visit in late summer, don't miss the magical annual Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic held in Ann Morrison Park.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor is an under-the-radar town perfect for museum lovers, thanks to the University of Michigan. Worth a visit are the institution's Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History and Museum of Archaeology. We also suggest strolling through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and catching a show at the Hill Auditorium. Off campus, visit the Nickels Arcade for shopping and eats.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
To put it simply, Oklahoma City is an underrated destination. Between its boisterous Bricktown neighborhood, unique Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens and whitewater rafting and kayaking facility, you might be surprised by how much there is to do. For food and accommodations, check out the newly-opened National Hotel, housed in a former bank (psst, there's a cocktail bar in the old vault).
Reno, Nevada
Sure, Las Vegas might get most of the attention in Nevada, but Reno is a more approachable destination for a solo trip. Yes, there are casinos here, but you'll also find impressive art and automobile museums, a lovely rose garden and the Nevada Historical Society. In the winter, skiing is nearby, and in the early fall, Reno hosts the world's largest free hot air balloon event. "The Biggest Little City in the World" certainly lives up to its moniker.
Tampa, Florida
Most travelers are familiar with South Florida's hotspots, but Tampa to the west (also considered one of the safest cities to live in the U.S.) is rightfully drawing attention. Its most famous attraction is Busch Gardens, but the city has more to offer than roller coasters. Head to the Tampa Riverwalk for waterfront dining, or visit Ybor City for lively nightlife, classic cigar lounges and the original 118-year-old Columbia Restaurant — home to one of the tastiest house salads you'll ever eat and a must-see flamenco show.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville has an impressive range of offerings for all types of interests. Are you a fan of history? There's the Biltmore Estate.Shopper? Head for the Grove Arcade. Hiker? The Blue Ridge Mountains are yours to explore. Art Lover? Stroll through the River Arts District. Oh, and did we mention the local breweries and exceptional Southern comfort food?
Boulder, Colorado
Before you hit the ski slopes or hiking trails (depending on the season), check out the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, filled with quirky shops and tasty eats. You might not expect it, but Boulder is also home to a landmark tea spot called the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (a solo afternoon tea sounds divine to us), a contemporary art museum and the Shelby American Collection of classic cars.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago may be a big city, but it's easy to navigate on foot — or on the "L" train system. There's no shortage of activities, whether you're interested in taking an architectural history boat tour, visiting the Art Institute of Chicago or Field Museum or taking a selfie with the famous "Bean." This should go without saying, but make sure to take yourself on a deep-dish pizza tour, because you deserve it (and you'll have the whole pie to yourself).
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
If you're interested in hiking part of the Appalachian Trail, hit the region around Harpers Ferry. The visitor center is considered the "psychological midpoint" of the trail, and there are a number of scenic day hikes in the area. The town itself — which boasts small-town charm — is part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and has an antique shop (called The Gilded Flea) and a historic candy shop.
South Bend, Indiana
College towns make for perfect weekend getaways for solo travelers, with lively downtowns and impressive museums — and South Bend is no exception. There's a three-story automotive museum, two art museums, a gorgeous neo-Gothic church, the Morris Performing Arts Center and a scenic riverfront park to fill your itinerary. It also has several chocolate shops, the Indiana Whiskey Company for tastings and restaurants serving cuisine from all around the world.
Pensacola Beach, Florida
For a laid-back beach trip (except during spring break, when things get a little rowdier), Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle has pristine beaches along the Gulf of Mexico (we recommend Perdido Key State Park for a day at the beach). History lovers can check out the National Naval Aviation Museum and Fort Pickens, while those seeking nightlife can let loose at the gigantic music, food and drink venue called Seville Quarter.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The city of Pittsburgh is easy to get around, with public transportation connecting many walkable neighborhoods. Culture, history and art lovers will enjoy the Carnegie Natural History Museum, the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, the Andy Warhol Museum, the Mattress Factory contemporary art museum and the colorful Randyland folk art museum. If you're a Pittsburgh fan, PNC Park — home of the Pittsburgh Pirates — is widely regarded as one of the best ballparks in the country.
Burbank, California
Burbank offers small-town charm — and a lack of bad traffic — within Los Angeles County's overwhelming urban sprawl. Fly into Burbank's small and beloved airport for easy access to everything in town. Check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (arguably the most immersive of the major studio tours in Hollywood) and Flappers, the legendary comedy club frequented by Jay Leno. Downtown Burbank's main street is lined with restaurants and shops, while the Magnolia Park neighborhood is known for its quirky boutiques.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Surrounded by beautiful, towering mountains, Salt Lake City is an outdoor enthusiast's heaven. Outside the city, those mountains have hiking and ski slopes, while inside city limits you'll find the Tracy Aviary and Botanical Gardens, Sugar House Park and the International Peace Garden. For local history, the Salt Lake Utah Temple, Beehive House and the Natural History Museum of Utah are top destinations.
Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth and Dallas are often lumped into one, but the former is the better destination for a solo traveler. While the stockyards might be touristy, seeing a parade of livestock marching down the street is pretty special. Boot, scoot and boogie on over to Billy Bob's — the world's largest honky tonk — for live concerts, bull riding (not the mechanical kind), barbecue, line dancing lessons, pool tables and a whole lotta beer. For something a little tamer, the city is an architectural oasis, with sites like Fort Worth Water Gardens, the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.
Princeton, New Jersey
This New Jersey gem has more to offer than just a beautiful college campus. The Morven Museum & Garden showcases art inside a historic mansion, surrounded by beautiful landscaping; the Terhune Orchards offers delicious wine and baked goods; and the Princeton Battle Monument honors the battle fought and won by George Washington in 1777.
Olympia, Washington
Olympia is not only the capital of Washington, but also a charming city with a waterfront boardwalk, famed farmers market and the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Its also filled with diverse cuisines, including Latin street food, Korean fare and Pacific Northwest oysters.
Deadwood, South Dakota
Step back into the days of the Wild West and live the life of a real cowboy or cowgirl in historic and one-of-a-kind Deadwood. It's home to gold mines, old-timey saloons, a vintage steam engine and a mining museum. For food, it's steakhouse upon steakhouse — with a couple of steakhouses in between.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is the land of world-class skiing, scenic hiking and all-around magnificent mountain landscapes. Whether you want to hit the slopes or take in the vistas by gondola, exploring the mountains is a must. The resort town is also a cultural hub, between the Aspen Art Museum, the Wheeler Opera House and the Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Right outside of Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor can be extremely busy. But visit in the shoulder season, and you're treated to an idyllic seaside town — and excellent hiking opportunities in the park. Sample fresh local lobster and visit a local winery or brewery post-hike.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is an art hub, between the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Museum and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. But it also has surprising access to nature, thanks to parks along both shores of the Mississippi River (Minnehaha Falls is a particularly lovely destination).
Cape May, New Jersey
Filled with Victorian-era houses that line the streets of the historic downtown, this resort town is nothing like what you'd find elsewhere along the Jersey Shore. Spend your day wandering the cute shops, sunbathing at the beach or climbing the 199 steps to the top of Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Pointe State Park. Visit Cold Spring Village to get a glimpse at life in the 1800s, or book a whale-watching tour for a day on the sea.
Stowe, Vermont
Good news for solo travelers who want to enjoy an ice-cold beer after a long day of exploring the mountains: This beautiful town specializes in three things, which are scenic hikes, skiing and craft breweries. You can even visit a brewery at the Trapp Family Lodge, opened by the real-life von Trapp family from The Sound of Music.
Sedona, Arizona
For surreal desert landscapes, it's pretty hard to beat Sedona. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Slide Rock State Park and Red Rock State Park are all magnificent sites with hikes and unforgettable views. In town, there are spa resorts galore, the Sedona Heritage Museum and the shopping destination, Tlaquepaque Village.
St. Augustine, Florida
Historic sites and museums in Europe-like St. Augustine — the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the U.S. — range from the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to the Lightner Museum to Fort Matanzas. There's even the Medieval Torture Museum, if you want to indulge in the macabre. You can easily fill an entire weekend with nothing but history — but check out the San Sebastian Winery and taste the local seafood, too.
Madison, Wisconsin
There are certainly more reasons to visit, but we'd travel to Madison for this stunning spring tulip display near the Wisconsin State Capitol alone. There's also the Olbrich Botanical Gardens (boasting 16 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens) and Henry Vilas Zoo. But perhaps the highlight for foodies is The Old Fashioned restaurant, where the cheese curds were voted the best in "America's Dairyland."
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is the perfect setting to enjoy your own company. The small Massachusetts island has beaches, the cutest natural wood homes, a picturesque harbor with a famous lighthouse, trendy boutiques and top-notch seafood. It's best visited in the warmer months, but aim for early or late summer to avoid major crowds. Plan your trip around one of these annual festivals, if any strike your fancy: the Nantucket Daffodil Festival (April), Nantucket Wine Festival (May) or Nantucket Book Festival (June).
Washington, D.C.
It's impossible to get bored in the country's capital — and you can basically walk everywhere. From the White House and Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, there are endless iconic sights. Plus, the Smithsonian houses First Ladies' gowns and Dorothy's ruby slippers, among other pieces of American culture. Visit during cherry blossom season (usually the end of March or early April) for breathtaking scenery, and get in line at Georgetown Cupcake (in the neighborhood of Georgetown, of course) for a taste of the iconic treat.
Ogunquit, Maine
Ogunquit — an idyllic town on Maine's southern coast — is as picturesque and peaceful as it gets. If you're looking to stay in one place where you can read a book, take a dip in the pool, go to the spa and eat a lobster roll (or two), stay at Cliff House, a resort only a 10-minute drive from downtown Ogunquit. If you want to venture out, head to Main Street for endless restaurants and shops (Sweet Pea's Ice Cream is a must in the summer), hang out in lively Perkins Cove for waterfront dining or take a scenic stroll along Marginal Way.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is ideal for the solo traveler who wants to play tourist in a major city — but is also craving a small-town feel. There's Quincy Market for shopping and foodie classics (think: clam chowder and Boston cream pie). But for one of Boston's most famously quaint areas, complete with cobblestone streets and vintage lampposts, take yourself to Beacon Hill (Acorn Street is adorable, as you can see). Then, spend an afternoon sunbathing, reading or listening to music in Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States.
Mystic, Connecticut
This waterside village is small in size, but mighty in its appeal, especially for solo travelers looking to relish in the simple things. There's the Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium and Old Mistick Village, but downtown Mystic is also known for its restaurants, shops, boardwalk and famous drawbridge. Don't leave without channeling Julia Roberts at the real-life Mystic Pizza, and, if you want to wake up to freshly baked, complimentary chocolate chip cookies, book your stay at Whaler's Inn.
Palm Springs, California
If rejuvenation is what you're after, Palm Springs is a lovely setting. You can sign up for a yoga retreat in nearby Joshua Tree National Park for the ultimate recharge. In downtown Palm Springs, you'll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants and the Palm Springs Walk of Stars — a scaled-down version of L.A.'s Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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