Best U.S. Destinations for Solo Travelers: Top Cities and Spots to Explore Alone
Traveling alone can sound intimidating, but once you do it, you realize how freeing it really is.
No negotiating about where to eat, no waiting for someone else to get ready, no compromising on your dream itinerary.
Just you, your bag, and a wide-open map. Honestly, solo travel might be the best form of self-care there is.
So, if you’ve ever thought about going on a trip by yourself, here are some of the best U.S. destinations for solo travelers.
1. New York City, New York
You can’t make a list like this and not start with New York City. The beauty of traveling solo here is that you’re never really alone. The city buzzes with energy 24/7. You can spend your day wandering Central Park, getting lost in the Met, or people-watching in Times Square. At night, Broadway shows and rooftop bars make it easy to fill your evenings.
And food? Endless options. A $1 slice of pizza, street vendor hot dogs, or Michelin-starred dining—it’s all here. No awkward group debates about where to eat. You just follow your cravings.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: There’s always something to do, and it feels surprisingly safe when you stick to the busy areas. Plus, no one bats an eye at someone eating alone here.
2. Austin, Texas
Austin is like that laid-back friend who knows all the cool spots but never brags about them. If you’re traveling solo, this city’s easygoing vibe makes it simple to strike up conversations. Hit up a food truck park, and you’ll probably walk away with a new buddy (or at least a recommendation for the best taco in town).
Live music is everywhere—seriously, even the airport has live bands. If you’re outdoorsy, you can kayak on Lady Bird Lake or hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt. And don’t skip the legendary barbecue. Yes, you’ll stand in line, but hey, that’s half the fun.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: The mix of music, food, and friendly people makes it a perfect balance of lively and chill.
3. Portland, Oregon
If you’re into quirky shops, craft coffee, and food that feels like an art project, Portland is calling your name. The city is super walkable, and biking is almost a requirement. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon browsing Powell’s City of Books (the largest independent bookstore in the world) and not feel one bit weird about being on your own.
The food scene is wild—donuts that look like sculptures, ramen joints tucked in alleys, food carts serving cuisines you’ve never tried. And if you’re craving nature, the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood are just short drives away.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s a safe, creative city where “weird” is celebrated. Perfect for those who like wandering without an agenda.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of those cities that surprises solo travelers. Between the skyline views at Millennium Park, the riverwalk, and endless museums, you’ll never run out of things to do. If you’re a baseball fan, catching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field alone is a bucket-list experience.
And yes, deep-dish pizza is a must, but Chicago’s food scene is way more diverse than that. Grab a seat at a local diner or a trendy café—you’ll fit right in. Bonus: The L train makes getting around pretty easy, so you don’t need a car.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s easy to explore, loaded with iconic attractions, and the locals are friendlier than you might expect.
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you’re looking for something slower and soulful, Santa Fe delivers. The city is packed with art galleries, adobe architecture, and an almost magical desert backdrop. Wander through Canyon Road’s galleries, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, or soak in a mineral hot spring.
The food here leans heavily into Southwestern flavors—green chile everything. And there’s something about the pace of life in Santa Fe that makes it perfect for solo reflection.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s peaceful, artsy, and has a unique culture you won’t find anywhere else in the U.S.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a solo traveler’s dream. It’s compact enough to explore without a car but full of iconic spots—Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown. You can spend hours wandering neighborhoods, each with its own vibe.
Public transit is decent, but honestly, walking those hills (and riding a cable car when you’re tired) feels like part of the adventure. The city also has plenty of hostels and boutique hotels where it’s easy to meet other travelers.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s scenic, diverse, and packed with solo-friendly activities.
7. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is where music and hospitality collide. Even if you don’t know a single soul, it’s almost impossible to feel lonely here. Broadway Street’s honky-tonk bars have live music spilling into the street, and you can dance, listen, or just sip a beer and soak up the atmosphere.
Daytime activities are just as fun—visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, stroll Centennial Park, or dive into Nashville hot chicken (fair warning: it’s spicy!).
Why it’s great for solo travelers: The city is fun, safe, and ridiculously welcoming. Everyone seems ready to strike up a conversation.
8. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a cozy destination for solo travelers. Start with Pike Place Market (yes, you’ll see the fish being thrown), then take a ferry ride across the bay. The city’s coffee culture makes solo café hopping feel totally natural.
For a nature fix, Mount Rainier is just a day trip away. On rainy days (and there are plenty), Seattle’s museums and bookstores are the perfect hideouts.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It blends city energy with easy access to the outdoors. Plus, coffee shops are built for solo hangs.
9. Denver, Colorado
Denver is your gateway to the Rockies, which means if you love the outdoors, this city is golden. Rent a bike and explore the city, or join a brewery tour for some craft beer (Denver has a crazy number of breweries).
The real magic, though, is in the mountains. Even if you don’t ski, hiking trails and scenic drives are everywhere. And since Denver attracts lots of transplants and travelers, people are usually open to chatting.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: Endless outdoor adventures, paired with a young and social city vibe.
10. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans might be the ultimate city for traveling solo. There’s so much music, food, and history that you’ll never feel out of place on your own. Walk through the French Quarter with a beignet in hand, hop on a steamboat cruise, or dive into live jazz at night.
Sure, Bourbon Street is wild, but there are also quiet courtyards and local neighborhoods to explore. And food? Gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys—you’ll probably need stretchy pants.
Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of life at all hours.
Final Thoughts
Traveling solo in the U.S. is easier than most people think. Whether you’re craving the hustle of New York, the quirk of Portland, the peace of Santa Fe, or the nonstop party in New Orleans, there’s a destination that matches your vibe.
The best part? You don’t need anyone else’s approval to book the trip. Just pick your spot, pack your bag, and go. What’s stopping you?