America is breathtaking from coastline to coastline. Being born in such an enormous, diverse nation filled with countless landscapes, traditions, and attractions feels like winning the lottery. Even if I never set foot outside the country's borders and spent my entire life exploring only my own backyard, the sheer variety would still feel like exploring the entire world.
It amazes me that a single country can contain some of the planet's tallest peaks, Hawaiian tropical shores, Alaskan glaciers, plus rugged, sun-baked deserts dotted with jaw-dropping rock formations.
So whether you're considering a solo trip within your own country before venturing abroad, or you're visiting from elsewhere and curious what America offers lone travelers, you've landed in an excellent spot. With countless possibilities, though, you might feel overwhelmed about where to begin.
What follows are some of my personal picks across the US, along with recommendations from other solo female travelers, to help you get going:
13 Top US Destinations for People Traveling Alone
1. San Francisco, California
At Baker Beach
Whenever someone who doesn't live in California visits, almost everyone inevitably falls head over heels for San Francisco. As a native Southern Californian, it's basically hardwired into me to roll my eyes at this, but if I'm being honest, I quietly concur. The entire Bay Area is gorgeous, mild, and brimming with its own distinct identity. European friends of mine frequently remark that it carries an old-world charm reminiscent of home.
What I adore about it is how simple it is to navigate via BART, how compact and walkable the downtown core feels, how photogenic every corner is, and how wonderfully multicultural the vibe is. Sign up for a yoga or meditation session, time your visit around Pride or the Outside Lands music festival, or catch a live show. It also serves as an ideal starting line or finish point for a road trip cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway!
2. Bayfield, Wisconsin
Sailing the Apostle Islands – absolute perfection
Midwestern hospitality is legendary, and the folks in Bayfield, Wisconsin absolutely delivered when I rolled through. It's a creative little town with welcoming residents, small enough to feel cozy but with enough going on to keep you entertained. Sign on for a kayaking excursion, hop aboard a boat tour, or take a leisurely drive through the surrounding orchards.
There are loads of beaches and charming, offbeat spots to explore. Camping enthusiasts will find tons of options, and a winter visit means the renowned caves freeze over into spectacular ice sculptures. If you're passionate about photography and the natural world, you'll be completely smitten with this charming town perched on Lake Superior, the gateway to the Apostle Islands.
3. Moab, Utah
Dead Horse Point
Moab is paradise for anyone who lives for the outdoors. If you're all about van life, bouldering, backcountry hiking, and paddling, Moab ticks every box. This is where you'll discover Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, along with Dead Horse State Park. In short, it's one of the most spectacular stretches on the planet, packed with stunning geological wonders and complimentary camping spots.
I effortlessly struck up conversations just by lingering around the free campsites, hanging out at coffee spots, and soaking in the sunset at Dead Horse Point during my solo road trip through the American Southwest. I've noticed that destinations drawing people around a mutual passion, particularly something outdoorsy, tend to foster easy social connections. Moab embodies that beautifully.
4. Big Sur, California
Big Sur's legendary whale-watching lookout, just north of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
I've scoured every continent and still haven't stumbled on anywhere as stunning or awe-inspiring as Big Sur along California's central coastline. Despite suffering its share of recent calamities, when accessible, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park ranks among the most enchanting waterfalls I've ever laid eyes on.
Big Sur is a phenomenal spot to decompress. If you're hoping to mingle, the campgrounds can be quite communal. That said, when I'm out there, my favorite companions turn out to be the dolphins and whales breaching offshore, the squirrels and deer along the trails, and the magnificent Pacific. For additional recommendations on my preferred state and national parks in California, peek at my reflections on Alamo's Scenic Drive.
5. Squaw Valley, California
Gorgeous vista from KT-22 at Squaw
"My ultimate solo getaway is Squaw Valley. During winter, Squaw provides ample skiable terrain that's secure to tackle solo, plus a diverse lineup of yoga classes and spa offerings ideal for unwinding after a full day of solo skiing or snowboarding.
Bailey at Squaw
The dining options at Squaw also cater wonderfully to solo female travelers, with many featuring snug, intimate booths where you can nestle with a book and a warm toddy while you wait for your food. Once the snow disappears, Squaw remains my preferred solo destination thanks to dozens of miles of hiking and mountain biking paths. For anyone uneasy about hiking or biking alone, several outfitters run guided excursions." – Bailey of Feng Shui Mommy
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas, baby!
Las Vegas wouldn't have topped my list as somewhere thrilling to visit solo, but with so much going on, it turns out to be ideal!
According to Noni, "I've journeyed through North America solo and nothing has wowed me quite like Las Vegas!! I'm not American and didn't anticipate much, but the moment I arrived I realized it outshines every other spot in Northern America!
Noni in Vegas
It's super easy to connect with people, everyone's in great spirits and totally open to making new friends, there's a bus that's hugely popular and runs every couple of minutes which makes getting around a breeze, and there's tons of stuff to do, from movie theaters and nightclubs to bowling alleys and casinos – Las Vegas is hands down my favorite destination as a female solo traveler!" – Noni of Noni May
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
That quintessential New Orleans vibe!
"I'm convinced New Orleans is an ideal destination for solo female travelers. I've ventured there independently and adored it. The city might be famous for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras, yet there's a captivating, layered cultural heritage waiting to be uncovered over a long weekend. There's truly something for every taste in NOLA. To kick things off, I'd recommend booking a boutique hotel on Royal Street, just steps from the reportedly haunted LaLaurie Mansion. While you're in town, wander through the cemeteries in the Garden District and the French Quarter, and indulge in the city's celebrated beignets, po' boys, and Pimm's Cup.
Brittany posing in front of the Buckner Mansion from American Horror Story
Entertainment options are endless and span from chill hangouts to wild parties. Delve into the competing legacies and lasting impact of France and Spain, or the city's centuries-old traditions around voodoo and witchcraft. Or throw yourself into the revelry in the Fruit Loop for a few Hand Grenades. You'll inevitably discover exactly what fits your mood and stay within your budget, too.
New Orleans is a sizable city yet simple to traverse on foot or via streetcar and bus. I never once felt uneasy as a solo traveler because the streets are consistently alive with tourists and locals alike, though it always pays to take sensible precautions appropriate for navigating any large city." – Brittany of Transformed Thru Travel
8. Maui, Hawaii
Pick up surfing!
I won't hold it against you if Hawaii doesn't spring to mind when you think of standout solo travel destinations—I wouldn't have pictured it either until I actually visited Maui solo last year. It was phenomenal! There was no shortage of activities, from a women's surf school to cruising the Road to Hana to joining snorkeling outings.
I anticipated being surrounded by honeymooners, but instead I discovered that visitors were genuinely outgoing and warm, regardless of whether they were coupled up or not. Maui solo comes with my highest endorsement, much to my own surprise!
9. The Big Island of Hawaii
Hawaii at its finest
"The Big Island of Hawaii ranks among the finest destinations for adventurous solo female travelers. With active volcanoes, world-renowned dive sites, distinctive beaches, and miles upon miles of hiking paths, any woman with a taste for the undiscovered will never run out of things to do. Solo travelers will relish watching molten lava bubble at the summit of Mauna Loa, snorkeling in Honaunau Bay, and stopping by Uncle Robert's night market — a vibrant gathering featuring fresh fare and handcrafted clothing, beauty products, and home decor.
Chantae working her magic!
Making new friends comes easily through activities, on the beach, and during day excursions. The island is straightforward to explore with a rental car since there's essentially one main road that loops around the entire island. Most travelers gravitate toward the more tourist-saturated islands like Oahu, but the Big Island is an underappreciated gem that's absolutely worth the journey." – Chantae of The Salt Sirens
10. Seattle, Washington
International District Arch in Seattle
"Solo travel in Seattle is wonderful because the city delivers such a range of activities that you can savor quiet moments or immerse yourself in a bustling neighborhood (or even alternate between the two in a single day). Seattle boasts neighborhoods with their own personality, cuisine representing every imaginable culture, outstanding museums, and stunning public green spaces.
Robin and Ava paddling away!
A standout feature of any Seattle visit is discovering the remarkably gifted local musicians performing throughout the city on most evenings. Jazz, experimental, rock, punk, metal, baroque, blues, hip-hop – everything is there for the taking. Public transit covers most spots during daytime hours, and taxis or ride-shares are easy to grab for late-night outings. It's entirely normal for people to eat alone or take in live music solo in Seattle, so there's no reason for hesitation or awkwardness. Also, if you've heard about the 'Seattle Freeze,' set that worry aside — locals are genuinely warm and helpful once you strike up a conversation. But skip the umbrellas, please!" – Robin of LETgo: Grab Opportunity
11. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
"Cape Cod is recognized as the tail of Massachusetts and a beloved family beach getaway in New England, but it's also wonderfully suited for solo female travelers. The reason? It's exceptionally safe, simple to navigate, and absolutely gorgeous. The Cape sits just over an hour's drive from Boston or Providence. You'll definitely want a car so you can freely discover its stunning beaches. The ocean-facing beaches are all framed by dramatic sand dunes, while the bay-side beaches deliver the most breathtaking sunsets (if you're fortunate enough to catch one at low tide, the reflections dancing in the puddles along the sand flats are absolutely magical!).
Lindsay on Cape Cod
Outdoor lovers should tackle the Cape Cod Rail Trail, stretching 25 miles from Dennis to Wellfleet. There are outposts dotted along the route where you can rent a bike and pedal past cranberry bogs, marshlands, and lakes. Or for something a bit more low-key, check out Wellfleet for its weekend flea market and drive-in theater, the welcoming Provincetown for shopping and nightlife, and practically any restaurant for the Cape's iconic clam chowder." – Lindsay of Frugal Frolicker
12. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Gorgeous Minneapolis
"I refer to Minneapolis as the Stockholm of the Midwest. It's loaded with Swedish-American heritage, endures brutal winters (even harsher than Stockholm's, actually), and offers abundant opportunities to soak up the fine arts.
Haylay in Minneapolis
"For a solo female traveler, it's an ideal big city to explore. It's safe to roam around, showcases beautiful architecture and scenic overlooks, features excellent cycling paths, and offers plenty of delightful shops like cafés and stationery boutiques.
When it comes to the outdoors, summer is wonderful for exploring all the green spaces and the hundreds of surrounding lakes. And in winter, you have abundant chances to go ice skating, skiing or snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Regardless of the season, Minneapolis has a packed calendar ready for you to enjoy." – Hayley of International Hotdish
13. Sun Valley, Idaho
Idaho has to be one of the most stunning states during the colder months. I rang in the New Year there last year and absolutely adored the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
It's a charming little town with outstanding skiing, snowshoeing, naturally heated hot springs, and residents who are more than delighted to strike up a conversation with visitors and newcomers. Idaho is genuinely underrated!
Although the US is massive, and no compilation could ever fully capture the abundance of spots to see and experience, these represent a handful of our personal favorites. Hopefully this list gave you a sense of where to kick off, or carry on, your solo adventures.
If you have some go-to solo destinations to share, drop them in the comments below!
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*This post was brought to you in collaboration with Alamo Rent a Car. All opinions on the top destinations for solo travel in the US belong to their respective authors.
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