10 Places in America to Travel Solo
Traveling alone can be an inspiring and liberating experience. It gives you that refreshing escape from reality you so desperately need, while allowing you the opportunity to reconnect with yourself.
The solo journey is sort of like a “reset”, where you find yourself again. You learn what you love and you return home with a whole new outlook on life.
It’s definitely an experience that everyone would benefit from.
The United States is one of the best places for solo travel. With its stunning landscapes and diverse cities, America has you covered.
Here’s a list of the top 10 American destinations for solo travelers:
Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its incredible culinary scene, progressive vibe, and friendly locals. With countless cafes and bookstores, it’s the quiet retreat you’ve always dreamed of.
Solo Traveler Tip: Visit Powell's Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a stunning mountain town known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture.
If you’re looking for a slow-paced, relaxing drive with countless stunning pitstops, the Blue Ridge Parkway—America’s longest linear park—is an experience like no other.
Solo Traveler Tip: Tour the Biltmore Estate and while sipping a glass of wine from its vineyard.
Austin, Texas
Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, Austin, Texas is the perfect place for solo travelers who love music. It’s laid-back atmosphere—and amazing food—make it a great place to meet new people.
Solo Traveler Tip: Experience the nightlife on Sixth Street.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco, the City by the Bay, is known for its iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf, to name a few.
With its diverse culture and large public transport system, it’s the perfect place for solo travelers looking for a diverse cultural experience.
Solo Traveler Tip: Take a trip on the cable cars, or ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge and explore the nearby Sausalito.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is best known for its beautiful red rock formations. They form a backdrop for many activities, including peaceful spiritual retreats and stunning hiking trails.
Some people refer to Sedona as the “New Age Capital”, where individuals go to explore, meditate, do yoga, and even seek professional psychic guidance.
Solo Traveler Tip: Try a guided meditation or yoga class overlooking the serene landscape.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, dubbed, “The Windy City”, is known for its impressive architecture. It offers world-class museums and a wide and stunning lakeshore.
Aside from the striking cityscape, Chicago is home to over 580 parks and 8,300 acres of green space.
Solo Traveler Tip: Enjoy an architectural boat tour or stroll along the Navy Pier. Try some famous Chicago-style street-meat—hot dog, polish sausage, deep dish pizza.
Key West, Florida
Key West is your destination for a beach retreat. With its laid back vibe, stunning sunsets, and rich history, you’ll be instantly relaxed upon arrival.
For a more upbeat experience, Key West offers a variety of water activities—deep-sea fishing, dolphin-watching, scuba diving—and an exciting nightlife and bar scene.
Solo Traveler Tip: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder, which is set in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, is where you want to go if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. With a wealth of hiking and biking trails, Boulder is a community of health-conscious and friendly people.
It’s a perfect blend of urban and outdoors as it is also known for its stellar food scene and breweries.
Solo Traveler Tip: Hike the Flatirons and treat yourself with local cuisine at the Boulder Farmers Market.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville—the hometown of country music—is a thriving music scene. With roots in bluegrass, R&B, Pop and rock, visitors go to the city year-round to experience live music and see famous recording studios on Music Row.
In addition to its music scene, Nashville is a culinary treasure known for meat-and-three diners, fried chicken, and a strong farm-to-table community.
Solo Traveler Tip: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, or do a bar crawl along The Honky Tonk Highway.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a charming, southern city known for its beautiful cobblestone streets, rich history, and warm welcoming. It’s famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and trendy restaurants.
Solo Traveler Tip: Take a historic carriage tour and indulge in Southern comfort food at a local eatery.
Final Thoughts
Not only is it safe to travel alone in the U.S., but it is also a journey of self-discovery and adventure. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, so surely there’s somewhere on the list that fits your vibe.
Pack your bags and make the trip. It’s worth it.
