35 of the Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States
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 nearby factory, grab a cold drink at a craft brewery or take a cooking class. 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.
Where to Stay: The newly renovated Hotel Champlain Burlington, a Curio Collection by Hilton property, is more of an urban resort than a city hotel thanks its rooms with lake views, fitness classes, activity programming, indoor pool and more.
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Saratoga Springs, New York
This beautiful upstate New York town is a short train ride from New York City, so it’s ideal for residents looking for a quick solo escape. Watch a horse race at the historic Saratoga Race Course, 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.
Where to Stay: Brookmere, a new boutique hotel, leans into the city’s wellness vibe with an on-site spa and tranquil location.
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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 90-minute 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 Waco Mammoth National Monument or visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.
Where to Stay: You won’t find lodging with more Magnolia vibes than Hotel 1928, a historic building that was re-imagined by the celeb couple themselves.
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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 Cottage of Sweets are great treat-yourself stops.
Where to Stay: Carmel Valley Ranch’s King suites with nature-focused views (from hillside bluffs to vineyards!) provide the ultimate mental reset. Part of the Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, you can earn or redeem your World of Hyatt points there.
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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.
Where to Stay: Located on the downtown Plaza, the iconic, upscale La Fonda on the Plaza oozes Southwestern vibes while recently renovated Piñon Court is more friendly on the budget.
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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 National Park, Walnut Canyon National Monument 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.
Where to Stay: The ideal homebase for a solo adventure is Americana Motor Hotel, a retro property located right off Route 66. Trust!
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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.
Where to Stay: In a great location, the well-priced Moxy NYC Chelsea leverages its public spaces to create smaller alcoves ideal for solo travelers. It also offers co-working spaces, including a comfy communal table, and programming to mingle with other guests and locals.
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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!
Where to Stay: If you’re planning to work remotely on your trip or would love your own kitchen, opt for a studio suite The Ann Savannah, new apartment-style lodging by Marriott. Otherwise, go with The Alida on historic River Street.
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Boise, Idaho
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.
Where to Stay: If you want to bike around the city, book The Grove Hotel. It offers complimentary rentals.
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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.
Where to Stay: Near the University of Michigan, The Vanguard Ann Arbor, Autograph Collection is a stylish new choice with a French brasserie on-site.
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Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
To put it simply, Oklahoma City is an underrated destination. Between its boisterous Bricktown neighborhood, unique National 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
Where to Stay: Book The National, Autograph Collection, housed in a former bank (psst, there’s a cocktail bar in the old vault).
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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 (September 5-7 this year), Reno hosts the world’s largest free hot air balloon event. “The Biggest Little City in the World” certainly lives up to its moniker.
Where to Stay: If you prefer shopping to casinos, book the new Hyatt Place in South Reno, which is located at the Shayden Summit amidst many stores and restaurants. But if you want to play the slots, The Peppermill Resort Spa Casino is a popular pick.
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Tampa, Florida
Most travelers are familiar with South Florida’s hotspots, but Tampa to the west is rightfully drawing attention. Its most famous attraction is Busch Gardens, but the city has more to offer than roller coasters. Head to the 2.6 mile Tampa Riverwalk for waterfront dining, or visit the Ybor City neighborhood 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.
Where to Stay: The Hotel Flor Tampa Downtown offers complimentary shuttle service within a three-mile radius, which will get you to both the Riverwalk and Columbia Restaurant.
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Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is back and ready for travelers after cleaning up last year’s floods. The city boasts 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?
Where to Stay: A historic restoration of Asheville’s former steel foundry, The Foundry Hotel is nestled in The Block neighborhood, Asheville’s oldest African American business district. The blueberry ricotta fritters, on the breakfast menu, are reason enough to visit.
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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.
Where to Stay: The centrally located St. Julien Hotel & Spa impresses solo travelers with its garden terrace, live music and cocktail lounge.
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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).
Where to Stay: You’ll swoon over the rooms at the Virgin Hotel Chicago, but the seasonal rooftop lounge and communal workspace in the coffee shop are nothing to sneeze at either.
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Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
If you’re interested in hiking part of the Appalachian Trail, hit the region around Harpers Ferry (population: less than 300). The visitor center is considered the “psychological midpoint” of the trail, and there are a number of scenic day hikes in the area. The destination itself — which boasts small-town charm — is part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Where to Stay: The Rockhaven B&B offers guest suites with kitchenettes and private bathrooms for less than $200 per night.
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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 chocolate shops, the Indiana Whiskey Company for tastings and restaurants serving cuisine from all around the world.
Where to Stay: With spectacular city views, the modern Aloft South Bend is right on Main Street.
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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 buffs 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.
Where to Stay: Beachy chic rooms at The Pensacola Beach Resort face the gulf or the bay—it’s hard to choose! A seasonally operated trolley whisks you off to the beach.
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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 Museum of Natural History, the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, The Andy Warhol Museum, the Mattress Factory Museum of Contemporary Art 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.
Where to Stay: Pittsburgh’s regional magazine named The Priory Hotel the city’s “best boutique hotel” in 2024. Enjoy your complimentary breakfast in the enclosed courtyard.
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Karen is a seasoned journalist who specializes in travel, book, lifestyle and food coverage. Cicero has visited almost every state with her family (look out Wyoming, she’s coming for you next!). She has spoken at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA and the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance and was previously the senior editor at Parents. A mom who goes overboard for all the holidays, Cicero lives in the Christmas city itself: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She’s worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she’s not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files, likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.
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