18 Incredible U.S. Locations That Are Perfect for Solo Explorers
Solo travel is a way to make unforgettable adventures, especially if you don’t always have someone who can join you on your travels. Exploring a new place alone means you’ll have to embrace independence and do exactly what you want.
If you haven’t traveled solo yet, this guide will be your compass. We listed some of the best spots in the United States for solo explorers looking for places to chill, go hiking, or do a little soul-searching.
Ready for your next solo adventure? Here are the top places to travel alone in the U.S.
1. Naples, Florida
Naples is a well-known beach vacation spot for solo travelers. You can lounge on the beach near the Naples Pier or play golf at one of the many courses in the area.
Take a cruise from nearby Marco Island to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Beyond the beach, Naples has a pleasant downtown area with upscale shopping outlets, restaurants, and art galleries.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a large city that feels like a small town. You can easily walk to historic sites and use the subway to visit neighboring Cambridge. Love history and culture? Check out the Boston Tea Party Museum and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. For a refreshing nature walk, stroll along the Charles River Esplanade or visit the Boston Public Garden.
Enjoy coffee at one of the many cafes, sample different varieties of coffee and tea, or browse through the numerous bookstores in the city. Don’t miss exploring neighborhoods like the North End and Beacon Hill.
3. Boulder, Colorado
For those who crave peaceful solo travel in the States, Boulder lets you experience a retreat surrounded by natural beauty. Eldorado Canyon State Park is 9 miles south of Boulder, and the scenic Flagstaff Mountain trail is an 6-mile drive west.
You can also visit the famous Flatirons, known for their bright red sandstone formations. If you’re feeling social, take a stroll down the Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly area crammed with restaurants, shops, and bars.
4. Portland, Oregon
Eating alone doesn’t have to be difficult during your travels, especially when Portland enhances your meals. You can wander into food truck parks for everything from pizza to Senegalese dishes and take your lunch in a lively space.
Aside from the great food, Portland’s reliable transport, beautiful parks, and strong community make this well-suited for solo travelers. You can also unwind in Portland’s serene Japanese Garden.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
If your ideal vacation involves hiking and biking all day and having a beer with new friends at night, Asheville is the perfect destination. Cyclists will love the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic road with incredible views.
Hikers can explore the Craggy Pinnacle Trail for breathtaking mountain views and one of the best sunrise spots around or hike up Mount Pisgah for an adventure. After your day of activity, unwind with a cold beer on the dog-friendly deck at Wicked Weed Brewing.
6. Sedona, Arizona
Another place to check out is Sedona, Arizona. Known for its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere, Sedona has grand canyons and red rock formations that provide an exciting backdrop for solo travelers. Check out Broken Arrow Trail or Cathedral Rock while you’re there.
If you need a break after a day of exploration, visit Amara Resort and Spa for a full resort experience and relaxation. If you would like to refuel after your day out, Golden Goose American Grill and Casa Sedona Restaurant are places you can’t miss.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
The coastal city of Charleston in South Carolina will make any art lover feel at home. Charleston features over 35 fine art galleries and hosts a free Art Walk on the first Friday of every month.
Immerse yourself in the French Quarter’s vibrant art scene and Southern charm. On a nice day, visit the Isle of Palms for a less crowded beach experience.
8. Nashville, Tennessee
If going out to meet people is your idea of a perfect solo trip, Nashville is the place to go. This city of music holds plenty of opportunities to form new connections.
Visit The Basement, a live music venue with an intimate setting. Additionally, check out the 3rd and Lindsley Bar & Grill, another popular live music venue in Nashville. Don’t miss the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B’s.
9. Portland, Maine
Although this is the second Portland on our list, it stands out with its unique coastal charm. You can take a ferry or private boat charter from this bayside community to nearby islands. Or enjoy some of the best lobster rolls in the country at Luke’s Lobster.
When you’re not on the water or savoring fresh seafood, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Old Port area. It features eclectic shops and boutiques of all kinds.
10. San Francisco, California
When you go on a solo trip, public transport is a necessity — nobody wants to cover the whole Uber bill for a weekend. San Francisco shines in this area.
With its complete network of Muni buses, streetcars, and iconic cable cars, you can explore every corner of the city without needing a cab. The public transport system also provides stunning views of the bay and the towering redwood trees in Muir Woods.
11. Bayfield, Wisconsin
Bayfield is a friendly coastal retreat on the shores of Lake Superior. It is renowned for its bed-and-breakfasts and picture-postcard Victorian homes.
Besides the lovely homes, you can visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, where you can find beautiful sites, including ice caves, during the winter months. You can also visit the Fruit Loop, which lets you stroll through orchards, farms, and wineries.
12. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Tucked off legendary Highway 1 in California is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach community on the Monterey Peninsula. This fairytale location is perfect for solo travelers, with activities like surfing, wildlife watching, and exploring the storybook village center.
For a more low-key experience, check out the town’s numerous art galleries, such as Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture. These spots provide a quiet place to appreciate local artistic talent.
13. Boise, Idaho
Boise is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore riverside biking and walking trails throughout the city and enjoy seasonal activities at Bogus Basin Mountain, which offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Additionally, Boise is near beautiful mountain towns like McCall and new ski resorts like Tamarack Resort, which provides many ways to set your own adventure.
14. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s friendliness makes it a great environment for solo travelers. You can rent a bike to explore the city’s historic sites at your own pace.
Take a walking tour or explore Forsyth Park by yourself. Enjoy the lush green space, picturesque fountains, and gardens. Afterward, head to River Street to take in the riverfront views, lined with restaurants, shops, and historic buildings.
15. Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, is home to refreshing natural hot springs. Solo travelers can enjoy the historic thermal waters along the famous Bathhouse Row, where you can soak without any hassle.
One of the area’s greatest treasures is the Garvan Woodland Gardens. This 210-acre botanical park features a wooded shoreline, beautiful forest trails, a chapel hidden in the woods, and fascinating waterfalls.
16. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is Utah’s largest city. It has a friendly vibe and is surrounded by mountains. This is an ideal city to travel solo, with excellent food options, plenty of sunshine, and quick access to hiking trails in the mountains.
You can enjoy local attractions and activities in Salt Lake City, and take great day trips to nearby state parks. It’s also a good starting point for exploring Utah’s national parks, such as Zion National Park and the Bryce Canyon.
17. Islamorada, Florida
Of all the towns in the Florida Keys, Islamorada feels the friendliest and most homey. Residents are welcoming and often invite visitors for drinks at the waterfront bars.
For a memorable meal, sit at Chef Michael’s and try the lionfish, a dish locals take pride in. In the afternoon, relax in one of the cottages at Moorings Village. This cozy accommodation is a perfect place to unwind.
18. Washington, D.C.
Museums are great to visit alone, and in D.C., you have over 82 to choose from, many of which are free. The city also has a vibrant food scene, and as a solo diner, you have a better chance of getting into popular spots.
Want to escape D.C.’s political crowds? Check out hip residential neighborhoods like Shaw. You can enjoy a drink at Maxwell Park Wine Bar or catch a show at the Howard Theatre.
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