Best 37 Solo Getaways in the USA You’ll Love

Travelling around the US is an opportunity to have many exciting, fun-filled adventures, no matter where you go. That said, with an area of almost four million square miles, it can be daunting to decide where to visit. Moreover, if you add on the potential complications of solo travelers, you might not know where to start. 

That’s where I come in, as someone who has visited some of the most beautiful cities in the US, from New York to San Francisco and many in between. I’m here to tell you that embarking on a solo getaway in the USA is most definitely possible, and, in fact, I’m all for it. 

Now, to assist you on your adventures, I’ve compiled a list of the 37 best solo getaways in the USA. So, all you need to do is dive right in!

37 Best Solo Getaways in the United States

Whether you’re looking for a bustling metropolis or a beachside town, these solo getaways in the States are the perfect opportunity to explore on your own.

1. New York, NY

New York has something on offer for everyone, as it’s a city full of art galleries, historical places, amazing skyline views, Central Park, and delectable food. It’s also a place that emphasizes the importance of independence, perseverance, and ambition, so it’s the perfect place for solo travelers. 

Moreover, there are so many things to do in New York alone. This varies from trying to get the best view of Brooklyn Bridge at night for an Insta shot to going on a food tour of one of its boroughs. 

That’s not all the city has to offer, as each neighborhood has a distinct vibe to it. Lower Manhattan has things to do, like going thrifting and visiting Chelsea Market. Then, there’s Brooklyn, where you can witness some of NYC’s off-the-beaten-path attractions, such as BLDG 92 — a museum about the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

2. Savannah, GA

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As one of the US’ most romantic cities, this may feel like a strange addition to a solo getaway list. However, Savannah is absolutely stunning in its own right and is a very safe vacation spot for those travelling on their own.

From going on a Sunday brunch sightseeing cruise to uncovering some of Savannah’s Historic District’s hidden gems, there are loads of exciting things to do in this South Carolina delight. What’s more, it’s a fantastic spot to visit year-round, as it’s a great sunny place in the USA. That’s because Georgia is one of the warmest US states in winter. 

3. Ann Arbor, MI

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Ann Arbor, a city west of Detroit, is known for being a vibrant university town, a foodie’s delight, and a world-class culture hotspot. With that all in mind, combined with being the US’ 48th safest city, it’s perfectly okay to travel here alone.

In contrast to Detroit, which is the US’ most dangerous city, Ann Arbor offers you big city attractions without the worry of crime. Whether you’re watching the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium or enjoying some masterpieces at the University of Michigan Museum of Art, there are loads of things to do in this charming place. 

Lastly, there are also loads of things to do outside, whether that’s walking in the Bird Hills Nature Area or taking a day trip to one of the US’ largest lakes, Lake Erie. 

4. Oklahoma City, OK

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Another underrated destination in the Southern US is Oklahoma City. From its bustling Bricktown district to the interactive displays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma’s Southern culture will knock your boots off.

As Oklahoma’s state capital, this city has loads to do. To begin with, you can explore the 70-acre Scissortail Park or take an art and architecture tour of the downtown area. 

After that, you might feel a bit peckish. Fortunately, downtown Oklahoma City has brilliant culinary options, whether that’s some delectable wood-fired pizza at Stella Modern Italian Cuisine or the mouthwatering steak and American fare at Packard’s. 

5. Tampa, FL

Moving more south into the Sunshine State, we’ve got the delightful city of Tampa, which is one of Florida’s safest cities for solo adventurers. This cool spot is most known for being home to Busch Gardens, one of Florida’s best landmarks, and also for its stunning beaches and incredible views. 

There are tons of exciting attractions to enjoy, whether it’s enjoying the fantastic exhibits at the Tampa Museum of Art or riding on the Teco Streetcar, one of Downtown Tampa’s top attractions. Moreover, there are some lovely beaches in the Tampa Area, such as Ben T. Davis Beach. In my opinion, this is one of the best cities for solo travelers in the USA to visit.

6. Asheville, NC

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Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, not too far from North Carolina’s border with Tennessee, is the picturesque city of Asheville. This spot is one of the best romantic getaways in the Southeast United States, even if you’re traveling solo. 

From its idyllic nature trails to some of North Carolina’s top hot springs, you can enjoy a relaxing time here. However, tranquillity isn’t all Asheville has to offer. You can visit the River Mill District to be inspired by local artistic talent or take a Historic Downtown guided electric bike tour to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks and scenic neighborhoods. 

You might enjoy reading my article on the best places to visit in the USA for first timers.

7. Boulder, CO

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In one of the US’ most beautiful states, Boulder certainly has a lot to offer solo travellers. Whether you’re looking to hike in the Eldorado Canyon State Park or do some shopping at Pearl Street Mall, this city is perfect for wandering alone. 

It’s also the ideal spot to base yourself if you want to enjoy an ultimate singles ski holiday, as Boulder has some fantastic skiing resorts nearby, such as Eldora Ski Resort, Winter Park Resort, and Copper Mountain Resort.

8. Chicago, IL

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Another terrific spot to visit is Chi-Town or the Windy City, as it’s known by locals. As one of the most diverse cities in the USA, Chicago has a lot to offer with its many culturally mixed neighbourhoods, such as Greektown, Little Italy, and Chinatown. 

With this diversity of ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds comes a buzzing city filled with great music, exciting architecture, and a rich history. You can explore this on a gangsters and ghost tour or a Chicago River architecture cruise. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have tons of fun while learning more about this magnificent metropolis. 

9. South Bend, IN

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Just approximately 90 miles east of Chicago is the quaint city of South Bend, Indiana. Home to the University of Notre Dame, it’s definitely a great place to visit for solo travellers due to its student campus and lively downtown area. 

South Bend also has some impressive museums, including the National Studebaker Museum, the South Bend Museum of Art, and the History Museum. Plus, it also has some stunning landmarks, such as the Morris Performing Arts Center, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and the Oliver Mansion.

Top tip: For a really fun-filled and unique activity, visit the South Bend Chocolate Company for a factory tour and a Willy Wonka-like experience. 

10. Pittsburgh, PA

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Back on the East Coast, you’ll find the Pennsylvanian city of Pittsburgh. It’s a delight for solo adventuring with walkable neighbourhoods, a well-designed public transport system, and many cultural offerings. 

For art aficionados, you’ll be thrilled by the Andy Warhol Museum, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museum of Art. Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Phipps Conservatory, Point State Park, and Fallingwater. Lastly, for whiskey fanatics, this whiskey walking tour is a brilliant way to explore the city.

11. Fort Worth, TX

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With picturesque attractions such as the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Fort Worth is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Texas. Moreover, its history as a cowboy trading post in the 19th century makes the city a fun spot to explore some Wild West attractions. This includes the Fort Worth Stockyards and the National Cowgirl Museum.

If you’re more interested in exploring nature or seeing some wildlife, check out the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Trinity Park, or Fort Worth Zoo. The latter is one of the best zoos in the US, with over 540 species of animals.

12. Olympia, WA

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Moving onto Washington State’s capital, Olympia, is another great place for solo travellers to visit. There are loads of things on offer in this city, whether that’s hiking in the Capitol State Forest or getting some breakfast at the Olympia Farmer’s Market. 

This metropolis also has a diverse range of cuisines to try, whether that’s the Venezuelan arepas at the Food Truck Plaza or the coffee from Olympia Coffee Roasters. Olympia is also very walkable, so also worth visiting are its Historic District, Percival Landing, and the Washington Capitol Campus.

13. Minneapolis, MN

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Going approximately 1,500 miles east of Olympia to the vibrant Minneapolis, which is part of the Twin Cities with Saint Paul, is Minnesota’s state capital. This is a hub for art, with fantastic cultural attractions, including the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and the Walker Art Center. 

What’s more, it’s home to America’s largest mall, the Mall of America, which has a theme park, an aquarium, and over 500 stores inside it. This is the ideal spot for the best shopping spree experience or just to enjoy some indoor fun. 

14. Cape May, NJ

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Back on the East Coast, Cape May offers a glance into the 1800s with its Victorian-era houses, sandy beaches, and Amish barns. For a more in-depth experience of this bygone period, visit Cold Spring Village. This living museum is a great way to see how people lived in New Jersey at that time, whether on a walking tour or just on your own. 

Additionally, Cape May Beach is one of the US’ best white sand beaches, perfect for spending a full day sunbathing or just for a quick dip. 

15. Sedona, AZ

Next up, we’ve got Sedona, which is one of the best warm places to visit in January in the USA. With its gorgeous red rock buttes, some fantastic hikes, and the chic Tlaquepaque Village, it’s a delightful desert city to visit. 

It’s also a very safe place for solo travellers thanks to its low crime rate, so you can enjoy a stress-free vacation here (obviously, just don’t be careless). Sedona has a terrific spiritual vibe with its abundance of vortexes, relaxing spa retreats, and extensive outdoor offerings. 

Additionally, Sedona sunsets are some of the best in the world, so make sure to head to Cathedral Rock or Schnebly Hill Vista for exquisite views. 

16. Madison, WI

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Another brilliant place for a solo getaway is Wisconsin’s capital — Madison. Why’s that, you’re asking? Well, with its stunning surrounding lakes, great foodie culture, and very walkable Downtown, you’re sure to experience some exceptional exploring. 

Talking about things to do in Madison, check out the Wisconsin State Capitol’s incredible interior, relax in nature at the Olbrich Botanical Garden, or see some thought-provoking art at the Chazen Museum of Art. If you’d prefer to enjoy some lakeside time, wander around Memorial Union Terrace. 

17. Washington, DC

Onto one of the safest cities in the world: Washington, DC, aka the country’s capital, is just as fun-filled as it is secure. That’s because many Washington, DC landmarks are museums full of interactive displays and interesting exhibits. 

It’s also a brilliant city to learn more about the nation’s history. You can visit several memorials along the National Mall, one of the US’ most famous landmarks, or check out the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. 

It also has some charming neighborhoods, such as the Georgetown Historic District, where you can enjoy some vibrant houses, quirky boutiques, and upmarket restaurants. 

18. Boston, MA

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Now, we move to Boston, which is filled with some of the best things to do in Massachusetts. This includes the spectacular Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the expansive Museum of Fine Arts. The latter has over 8,000 paintings and more than 450,000 artworks.

Onto an excellent attraction for foodies: Quincy Market. This is where you can try some regional classics, such as Boston cream pie or Clam Chowder. Lastly, for one of the best experiences for solo travellers, head to the Charles Rooftop Bar in the evening for a delectable cocktail as the sun sets. 

19. Palm Springs, CA

An exceptional place in California to visit is Palm Springs, a desert city that is perfect for relaxing, exploring, or a combination of the two. With its delightful mid-century-modern architecture, charming antique stores, and chic hotels, it’s ideal for some adventuring alone. 

This is because there are so many opportunities to treat yourself here, whether that’s on a shopping spree or with a relaxing spa treatment. What’s more, Palm Springs has some of the best hot springs in the US, like the Spa at Séc-he, which has waters that are over 12,000 years old.

20. Portland, OR

Another amazing city to explore is found in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s none other than Portland. It’s a major hub for hipsters with its trendy coffee houses, eco-friendly attitude, and craft microbreweries, plus it’s an excellent place to visit alone. 

The city is also easy to get around, as it has many bike paths, a tourist-friendly public transit system, and many walkable neighbourhoods. In terms of things to do for solo travellers, I recommend wandering around the International Rose Test Garden or grabbing a book at Powell’s City of Books.

And for some culinary offerings, make sure to try a meal from one of its many food carts — a vital part of the foodie culture here. And Portland isn’t far from Oregon’s famous wine region, Willamette Valley.

21. Charleston, SC

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Onto one of the world’s most beautiful cities: Charleston, South Carolina. With its scenic downtown area, early 1800s architecture, and picturesque waterfront park, it’s no wonder why so many love this city. 

There is so much on offer for solo travellers here. Participate in the Art Walk that happens every first Friday of the month, or venture on a historical walking tour of Charleston while learning about its turbulent past. 

PS: If you’re thinking of taking a road trip down the East Coast, then plan a stop at the Magnolia Plantations. It’s one of the best attractions on the drive from New York to Florida.

22. Nashville, TN

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Tennessee is known for having some of America’s most beautiful towns, and Nashville is no exception. Well, okay, it classifies as a city (being the state’s capital), but that doesn’t take away from its appeal to solo adventurers.

With its rich musical culture, relaxed atmosphere, and range of fun-filled activities, it’s easy to make new friends here. Whether that’s on a guided evening tour of the city or attending Jazz on the Cumberland (an event hosted one Sunday a month, from May until October), Nashville is very vibey. 

Looking for more introvert-based activities? Visit one of the city’s museums, such as the Country Music Hall of Fame or the Frist Art Museum. 

23. San Francisco, CA

Back on the North Coast, you’ll be in one of the US’ most visited places, San Francisco. This doesn’t surprise me in the least. The city has a very photogenic nature and is also home to various California landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Plus it isn’t far from one of the best national parks in the United States, Yosemite.

Some exceptional areas to include in your San Fran itinerary are Chinatown, the Mission District, and Haight-Ashbury. They all have distinct atmospheres, vibrant street art, and some of the best unique restaurants in San Francisco. 

I will say there are some areas here to avoid at night on a solo getaway, such as the Tenderloin and around the Civic Centre. 

24. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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Another Californian gem that’s perfect for a weekend trip from San Francisco or simply a visit in its own right is Carmel-by-the-Sea. This stunning spot is ideal for a seaside adventure, whether that’s enjoying the natural beauty of the white-sand Carmel Beach or visiting one of its quirky art galleries. 

It’s a brilliant starting point for some quick road trips, whether that’s to breathe in the fresh sea air at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve or to take a shot of the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most famous bridges. All in all, it’s a magnificent spot for solo getaways.

25. Boise, ID

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Now, for outdoor explorers, you might be wondering: all the cities are great, but what about one that’s ideal for hiking? I give you Boise, Idaho. The Boise River runs through this charming city that is surrounded by mountains. 

Boise used this to their advantage and created the Boise River Greenbelt, which is dotted with trails and parks just waiting for you to explore. What’s more, it has some lovely cultural offerings, including the Boise Art Museum, the Egyptian Theater, the Basque Museum, and the Freak Alley Gallery. 

PS: Want a way to experience all of Boise’s attractions in just a day? Boise Trolley Tours offers various themed tours around the city with an experienced guide.

26. Seattle, WA

Another popular travel destination in the US that’s fantastic for solo getaways is Seattle. It’s got a mix of both metropolis-like attractions, such as the Space Needle, and natural delights, like the Puget Sound and nearby Olympic National Park.

The city was recently ranked as one of the safest destinations for solo travellers, with its high-quality food, progressive citizens, and walkable neighbourhoods. If you’re wondering what to do in Seattle, it has some of the best wineries in Washington, the awesome Museum of Pop Culture, and the bustling Pike Place Market.

Top Tip: This city is known for having some incredibly scenic vistas. So, if you’re looking for where to catch the best Seattle sunset, head to Kerry Park (you’ll thank me later). 

27. Salt Lake City, UT

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Looking for a spot in Utah that’s ideal for some solo travelling? Salt Lake City is my answer for you, mainly due to its cheap and efficient public transit system, pedestrian-friendly environment, and picturesque mountains.

It’s a fun spot for all travellers, whether you want to go skiing, mountain biking, or hiking. If you’d prefer to visit one of its fascinating museums, head to the Natural History Museum of Utah. What’s more, Salt Lake City has some terrific green spaces, including Liberty Park and Pioneer Park (which has an excellent farmer’s market on Saturdays).

28. Austin, TX

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Back to the Lone Star State, and you’re in Austin — home to the Texas State Capitol (one of Texas’ best landmarks). That’s not all that’s on offer here, though, as this city has a lively vibe that solo travellers will find infectious. 

With its exceptional live music and nightlife scene, you might even find it hard to leave Austin, as it’s so effortlessly cool. 

I recommend spending time in the Downtown, South Congress, and East Austin areas, as there is so much to enjoy, whether that’s eating a breakfast taco or trying some of the local craft beer or whiskey. No matter what you do, you’re sure to have fun.

29. Phoenix, AZ

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Another southern city that’s calling your name is Phoenix. Why’s this? Well, it’s one of the best places for a warm winter getaway in the US, with average temperatures ranging in the 20s. Additionally, it has a vibrant art scene — especially in the Roosevelt Row — some majestic hiking opportunities and a variety of transportation methods. 

It’s also known for having some exceptional dining options. These include the award-winning Pizzeria Bianco, the exciting three-in-one cocktail bar venue Century Grand, and one of the nation’s best Mexican restaurants, Cocina Madrigal.

Besides just that, you can also enjoy some fantastic shopping opportunities at The Churchill — a chic collective of retail stores built out of shipping containers.

30. San Antonio, TX

One more Texan city that’s worth mentioning is San Antonio — and for several reasons. Firstly, it’s the culinary capital of Texas. Secondly, it’s got some fantastic retail opportunities to splurge on shopping. Lastly, there are so many things to do in San Antonio for adults, from wandering along the San Antonio River Walk to visiting the Alamo for a deep dive into Texas’ history. 

This city also has a thriving arts sector, so if you’re a culture vulture looking for things to do in downtown San Antonio, be sure to check out Hopscotch or the Briscoe Western Art Museum. As you can see, there’s a bit of everything in this charming city, so it’ll be a busy solo getaway.

31. Flagstaff, AZ

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With all these southern metropolises, that last thing on your mind would be a winter wonderland. However, Flagstaff is one of the snowiest cities in the US, with an annual snowfall of around 245 centimetres. 

This makes it ideal for solo travellers who love skiing and snowboarding, as the snow-covered slopes will provide you with hours of fun. That’s not all, though, as it’s also home to some of the most iconic Arizona landmarks, including Arizona Centre, Civic Space Park, and Wrigley Mansion. 

Another reason why it’s a majestic spot for solo getaways is that it’s superb for de-stressing or as a break from work. This applies to whether you’re meandering around Flagstaff’s historic downtown or just enjoying the idyllic scenery, 

32. New Orleans, LA

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Known by locals as the Big Easy, New Orleans is a superb spot to visit, whether you love history, art, music, or just a good time. It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling as a party of one or with a partner; this city has an electric energy that’s hard to beat. 

I’d suggest checking out the historic places in NOLA, like the French Quarter and Bourbon Street and the mouthwatering beignets served at Cafe Du Monde. If you’re after some amazing jazz clubs, I highly recommend Preservation Hall and the Spotted Cat Music Club. 

Lastly, if you want some insightful looks into the city and nation’s past, check out the National WWII Museum, the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, or Mardi Gras World. 

33. Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas is known by many as a gambling and entertainment hub in the US. However, it offers more than just that to those who are willing to take a closer look. That’s because it’s a majestic city with plenty to offer solo getaways, even if you’re not interested in gambling.

You can trust me, as I have written about many things to do in Vegas besides gambling. Some of these activities include venturing into the Arts District, eating some delectable food, and even taking a hot air balloon ride. 

Another overlooked sector in Las Vegas is its tremendous museums. Interested in all things organised crime? Check out the Mob Museum. Recently intrigued by Oppenheimer? Visit the Atomic Museum.

34. San Diego, CA

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The Pacific Coast of California is calling your name, and to be more specific, the idyllic city of San Diego. With its delightful warm climate, verdant parks, and super beach culture, it’s the perfect destination for surfers, art lovers, and solo travellers. 

If you’re wondering where to explore first, I’d recommend the Historic Gaslamp Quarter. Not only does it have some trendy shops and a variety of dining options, but it also boasts well-preserved Victorian-era architecture. Its bustling atmosphere is also unmatchable. 

Another spot to visit in San Diego is Balboa Park. This 1200-acre verdant space is full of things to see, like the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Museum of Art, and the Spanish Village Art Center. 

Top tip: For the best San Diego sunsets, head to Ocean Beach Pier, Oceanside Pier, or Crystal Pier.

35. Philadelphia, PA

If you’re a solo traveller who loves learning about history, then Philadelphia is the place for you. It was a pivotal city for early American leaders as it was where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. 

As such, there are many historical landmarks in Philadelphia that are worth visiting, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. However, these are not the only exciting things about the city. 

Some other superb places to visit in Philly are the Reading Terminal Market (a top spot for Philadelphia food tours) and the Penn Museum (full of archaeological artefacts). 

36. Rochester, NY

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Many often overlook the rest of New York State after being distracted by New York City. Now, this would be an obvious blunder, as you’d miss out on the marvellous Rochester. 

There is so much to do here, from checking out some beautiful waterfalls to visiting the stunning parks of Rochester. Amongst my favourites are Highland Park, Ontario Beach Park, and Genesee Valley Park.

If you’re looking for something to do outside, some incredible places to go kayaking near Rochester are Genesee River and Mendon Ponds Park. After all this exploring, you might be feeling hungry, so I highly recommend visiting the Rochester Public Market.

37. Santa Fe, NM

Last but certainly not least is the incredible Santa Fe. This is a gem of a city in New Mexico, with exciting culinary options, a flourishing arts scene, and a vast history. For art lovers, check out any (or all) of the following: the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return, and the New Mexico Museum of Art. 

However, only do that after grabbing some breakfast at Tia Sophia’s, which serves classic New Mexican fare, including breakfast burritos, green chilli stew, and huevos rancheros. If you’re looking for something relaxing to do, then visit Ojo Caliente, one of New Mexico’s best hot springs.

FAQs About the Best USA Solo Getaways

Still have a few queries about solo travelling in the USA and beyond? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What Is the Safest Country to Travel Solo?

According to a study done by the luggage company Bounce, Japan is the safest country in the world to travel alone. Moreover, with a low crime rating of 23.1/100, solo travellers can have peace of mind when visiting Japan’s beautiful landmarks. What makes Japan so safe is its citizens’ sense of moral duty and community-based culture.

Can You Solo Travel in the USA?

Yes, absolutely. One challenging aspect of the country is its sheer size, so it might be best to choose one part of the US for a solo trip. Additionally, there are some brilliant singles travel groups which can help you move around securely and save money. 

What to Do When Travelling Alone?

Solo travel is an amazing way to practice self-reliance and boost self-confidence. This applies to whether you’re looking to have a singles holiday over 40 or just want to explore the world on a gap year. 

That said, before traveling alone, do your research on the world’s most dangerous cities. It’s also a good idea to share your travel itineraries with family or friends and make an emergency plan for if things go wrong.

Wrapping Up the Best Solo Getaways in the USA

There are so many awe-inspiring and sublime places to visit in the US on a solo getaway. From nature-surrounded cities along the Pacific Coast to bustling and energetic desert metropolises like Las Vegas and Palm Springs, this gigantic country has something to offer for everyone traveling alone.

Now that you’ve added some majestic options to your bucket list, it’s time to start planning your trip. One aspect I’ve covered is airline reviews, as I’ve used Delta Premium Select amongst other services.