Solo Travel Destinations for Women: The Best USA Cities Beyond the Usual List
If you’ve spent any time researching solo travel destinations for women, you’ve probably noticed something as I have: the same cities show up on every single list. And honestly? Some of them deserve to be there. I’ve visited several of those popular destinations myself, and they really are incredible.
But I also know that after scrolling through your fifth or sixth “best solo travel destinations” post and seeing the same places recycled over and over, it starts to feel like your options are more limited than they actually are. They’re not.
This list is a mix of both. Some destinations you may have already seen recommended, included because they genuinely earn their spot on the list, and some you probably haven’t considered yet that I have enjoyed as a solo trip. I’ll share places I’ve visited personally alongside a few I’ve researched thoroughly for my own future trips, and I’ll always be upfront about which is which.
Destinations are organized by region to make it easier to plan around where you want to explore. And for each one, I’ll tell you exactly why it works so well as a solo travel destination for women, because that’s really what matters most.
Featured Solo Travel Destinations for Women
These destinations I have personally visited and recommend, or have researched for an upcoming trip, and I will continue to add to them.
Southwest Solo Travel Destinations
Sedona, AZ
If you’ve ever scrolled past photos of dramatic red rock formations and turquoise skies and thought, “I need to go there,” you’re not alone. Sedona was exactly that kind of destination for me, a place I’d seen in photos for years before I finally made it happen. And it did not disappoint.
Sedona has a deeply spiritual energy that’s hard to explain until you’re standing in the middle of it. The landscape feels heavenly, and many visitors describe feeling a genuine sense of peace and renewal here. It’s also one of those rare destinations that works beautifully for solo women — the town is welcoming, easy to navigate, and filled with things to do entirely on your own terms.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is an absolute must, a stunning Catholic chapel carved directly into the red rocks, as breathtaking outside as it is peaceful inside. Getting out into nature here is something I highly recommend. The trails wind through some of the most beautiful red rock scenery you’ll ever see, and you don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy them; there are options for every fitness level. For those who want to experience the landscape without hiking, jeep tours come highly recommended by visitors as a fantastic way to take it all in.
When you’re ready to slow down, Sedona’s shops and restaurants are genuinely enjoyable to explore at a solo pace. If wine is your thing, Sedona Winery 1912 is worth adding to your list.
As for where to stay, Sedona offers a wonderful variety, from charming boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts to unique Airbnb properties, many with beautiful red rock views right outside the window. Sedona is one destination where upgrading your accommodation may be worth it for the views alone.
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe is a creative’s dream. Between the galleries, museums, shops, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences, this city has a way of inspiring you at every turn, and it’s so enjoyable to explore at your own solo pace.
Start at Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city, where you’ll find incredible food, local artists selling handcrafted jewelry and pottery, and more galleries and shops than you can cover in one visit. It’s the kind of place where an afternoon can disappear completely, and you won’t mind one bit.
If architecture inspires you, don’t miss the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, an amazing landmark right in the heart of the city, or San Miguel Chapel, widely considered the oldest church in the United States.
Museum lovers will feel right at home here. My personal favorite was the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, a must for anyone who appreciates art and its story. Santa Fe also has the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Museum of International Folk Art, and the New Mexico History Museum, so you could honestly spend days exploring and never run out of things to discover.
For art walks and seasonal activities, Canyon Road and the Railyard Arts District are both worth exploring — Canyon Road, especially, is one of those magical streets lined with galleries and gardens that feels made for a solo afternoon stroll.
I’ll be honest — Meow Wolf, the Santa Fe Opera, and a few of the museums are on my list for my next visit, and I can’t wait to add them to the itinerary. Sometimes a destination gives you so much that you have to leave something for next time, and Santa Fe is absolutely that kind of place.
The food scene is wonderful, and accommodations range from boutique hotels to charming adobe-style properties that feel unique to this part of the country. However you choose to spend your time here, Santa Fe is a destination that stays with you long after you leave.
And if you want to venture a little further, Taos is just 90 minutes north and absolutely worth an overnight stay. Think of it as Santa Fe’s smaller, equally enchanting neighbor.
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a solo woman’s trip, but it absolutely should be. It’s one of the easiest cities in the country to get to from almost anywhere, whether you’re flying or road tripping, and once you’re there, the sheer variety of things to do makes it incredibly solo-friendly.
I’ll be honest, I’m not a gambler. But I’ve visited Vegas many times with family, explored on my own while my husband was on a work trip there, and took my first solo trip there last year, and I had an incredible time. Here’s what I’d tell any woman considering it solo:
The Strip
Getting your steps in on the Strip is genuinely entertaining on its own, especially if you appreciate architecture and design. Walking through the different hotel lobbies alone is an activity with the details, the decor, and the seasonal installations that are endlessly interesting. The Bellagio fountain show is free, iconic, and worth stopping for every single time you walk past. Shops and restaurants line every inch of the Strip, and solo dining here is completely natural and comfortable.
Beyond the Strip
A great way to explore beyond walking distance is the Las Vegas Monorail — I bought a day pass and had so much fun using it to get around. It runs just off the main Strip and is an easy, affordable way to cover more ground without relying on Ubers all day.
Meow Wolf is worth adding to your list — I walked there from the Strip, but I’d recommend an Uber since the walk takes you under the highway and through an area that felt a little uncomfortable during the day. Once you’re there, though, the surrounding complex has plenty of other activities beyond Meow Wolf itself, making it worth a solid half day.
The Arts District was one of my favorite discoveries on my solo trip. I spent a few hours exploring galleries, admiring incredible murals painted on buildings, wandering through a memorial park, and stumbling onto an outdoor craft fair. There was even a cute ice cream shop that was the perfect solo afternoon treat. It’s a wonderful neighborhood for anyone who loves creativity, color, and wandering without a plan — and there are restaurants, breweries, and cafes when you’re ready to slow down.
An Honest Take on Fremont Street
I stayed in the Fremont Street area for a blogging event, and while the experience was unique, it’s not my personal favorite part of Vegas. The giant screens running the length of the street are bright and loud, and while the people watching is genuinely entertaining, the novelty wore off fairly quickly for me. That said, it’s very different from the Strip energy and worth seeing at least once, so you can decide for yourself.
Solo Dining
Bar top dining is something I’d highly recommend for solo travelers in Vegas. I ate at the bar at Margaritaville and Gordon Ramsay’s Burger Las Vegas, among others. It felt completely comfortable, close to other people without the pressure of conversation, and the service is usually great. You’re never going to feel out of place eating alone in this city.
Shows
I’ve attended several shows in Vegas with family over the years, and I highly recommend building one into your solo trip. Whether it’s Cirque du Soleil, a comedy show, a concert, or a magic show, there is always something running in Vegas. And going alone is completely normal here; nobody thinks twice about a solo woman at a show in this city. Don’t wait to experience this city with someone else. Vegas was practically made for solo travelers.
Taos, NM
If Santa Fe feels like a lot to take on for a first solo trip, Taos might be exactly what you’re looking for. Just 90 minutes north of Santa Fe, it has that same creative, artistic soul, but at a much quieter, more relaxed pace. It’s the kind of town that slows you down in the best possible way.
The heart of Taos is its historic plaza, a walkable square lined with galleries, shops, and restaurants that’s easy to spend a full afternoon exploring. The architecture alone is worth the visit. San Francisco de Asis Church on the south side of town is one of the most photographed adobe buildings in the American Southwest and is absolutely worth stopping to see.
One of my favorite experiences in Taos was a ghost tour, a guided walk through town where a local storyteller shared the history and folklore of the area. It was entertaining, fascinating, and a perfect solo activity. You’re with a small group, learning about the destination in a unique way, without needing a travel companion. I’d highly recommend looking into tours like this in any destination you visit; Taos just happens to do it well.
I’m already planning a return trip to explore even more of what this town has to offer. Sometimes a destination leaves you wanting more, and that’s exactly the sign of a good solo trip.
Rocky Mountains Solo Travel Destinations
Denver, CO
As a Colorado native, I may be a little biased, but Denver is genuinely one of the best solo travel destinations in the country right now. The city has grown into a vibrant, walkable destination with a booming food scene, incredible arts and culture, and easy access to the mountains — all in one place. The big decision isn’t whether to go, it’s deciding which season you want to experience it in.
In the City
One of the things I love most about Denver is how much you can do without ever needing a car. I planned a family staycation in downtown Denver one year and was genuinely surprised at how much we covered on foot, the theatre, restaurants, ice skating, and more, all within easy walking distance of our hotel. For a solo traveler, that kind of walkability is everything.
The 16th Street Mall is the perfect starting point because it’s a pedestrian-friendly stretch of shops, restaurants, movie theatres, and street life with a free shuttle bus running the length of it. From there, LoDo (Lower Downtown) is just steps away, packed with restaurants and within easy walking distance of Ball Arena for concerts and sporting events, and about 10-15 minutes on foot from Coors Field, where the Rockies play.
Denver has quietly become a serious foodie destination, with an incredible variety of restaurants from quick bites to high-end dining. (For a deeper look at the best restaurants in LoDo, check out my dedicated post here)
Museum lovers will feel right at home with options that include the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the History Colorado Center, the Denver Mint, and even a firefighter museum for something a little unexpected. If you enjoy live performance, the Buell Theatre is within walking distance for plays and orchestra performances.
Don’t miss Larimer Square either, it’s a beautifully restored historic block lined with restaurants, boutique shops, and some of the best photo opportunities in the city.
Just Outside the City
If you’re willing to grab an Uber or rent a car, Denver’s surrounding areas add a whole other dimension to the trip. The Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science sit right next to each other in City Park and are easily reached by rideshare. The Denver Botanic Gardens aren’t far from there either, a stunning property with a variety of themed gardens and special events throughout the year that’s worth every minute.
A short Uber ride also gets you to Meow Wolf: Convergence Station, an immersive, interactive art experience unlike anything else. If you enjoyed Meow Wolf in Santa Fe, Denver’s version is equally impressive and worth adding to your itinerary.
For those who want to venture into the foothills or mountains, a rental car opens up day trips to charming towns like Evergreen and Golden (I have a dedicated Golden post), as well as Red Rocks Amphitheater, one of the most iconic outdoor venues in the world and worth a visit whether there’s a concert scheduled or not.
Denver won’t disappoint for a solo trip — the only question is which season calls your name first.
Durango, CO
If you love the idea of a classic western mountain town with genuine charm and plenty of outdoor adventure, Durango belongs on your list. It’s a destination that works beautifully for solo travelers who want a mix of walkable small-town exploration and nearby big outdoor experiences.
Getting here typically means either driving, which makes a great road trip stop, flying into a larger airport and renting a car, or flying directly into Durango’s regional airport. Having a car will make the most of your time here, especially if you want to explore beyond the town itself.
Historic downtown Durango is a wonderful place to spend a solo afternoon. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and local character, making it easy to explore at your own pace. If you’d rather not navigate on your own, Durango has plenty of tour companies that handle the driving and add historical context to everything you see, a great option for solo travelers who want company without committing to a group trip.
Two highlights worth planning around are within easy reach. Mesa Verde National Park, about an hour to an hour and a half west of Durango, is one of the most unique national parks in the country, with ancient cliff dwellings that feel completely unlike anywhere else. And the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad heading north is a classic Colorado experience that solo travelers consistently rave about. Book your railroad tickets in advance—they sell out, and you don’t want to miss out.
For outdoor lovers, there’s even more to explore, walking and biking trails right in and around town, whitewater rafting for the adventurous, and Purgatory Resort about 40 minutes north if you’re visiting in ski season.
Durango is the kind of place that surprises you with how much it offers for its size — and how easy it is to enjoy completely on your own terms.
Jackson Hole, WY
This one was a dream trip for me, and it absolutely delivered. If you love national parks, Jackson Hole gives you more bang for your buck than almost anywhere else in the country — and it holds a very special place on my travel list.
I visited in the off-season, outside of ski season, which I’d actually recommend for solo travelers who want a more relaxed pace. I stayed at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, comfortable and relaxing, and far enough from town to feel like a true mountain escape, but close enough to easily drive in for dinner, shopping, or a day at the parks.
The resort itself has plenty to keep you busy beyond ski season. Hiking and biking trails wind through stunning mountain scenery, and the tram ride to the top of the mountain is an absolute must. At the summit, there’s a little waffle shack, Corbet’s Cabin, serving unique waffles and drinks with some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see while eating a waffle. I enjoyed it so much I went twice. At the base of the mountain, you’ll find bike rentals, shops, restaurants, and seasonal free concerts that make for a perfect, relaxed evening.
A quick note on the name — Jackson Hole refers to the valley that surrounds the area, including the mountain resort. The actual town of Jackson is a short drive away and worth an afternoon on its own. The downtown square is charming with galleries, restaurants, and shops, and you’ll want to stop for photos at the iconic antler arch in the center of town, one of those only-in-Wyoming moments that’s hard to forget.
But the real magic of this destination is what surrounds it. You are within easy driving distance of two of the most spectacular national parks in the entire country, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Visiting the parks was genuinely bucket list territory for me. Both parks are breathtaking, endlessly explorable, and the kind of places that remind you exactly why solo travel is worth every moment of planning.
Jackson Hole is an incredible road trip destination with something for every kind of solo traveler — whether you want mountain adventure, small town charm, or the experience of standing inside two of America’s greatest natural wonders.
West Coast Solo Travel Destinations
San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach, CA
This one is a hidden gem that doesn’t show up on nearly enough solo travel lists, and that’s exactly why I’m including it. San Luis Obispo, or SLO as locals call it, is a charming college town that sits right at the top of what’s considered Southern California. It’s off the beaten path in the best possible way, and worth every mile of the drive to get there.
Getting here is part of the adventure. I’ve either road-tripped from Colorado or flown into Hollywood Burbank Airport, rented a car, and driven up the coast. The drive from Burbank to SLO is about three hours, but if you take the coastal route, it doesn’t feel like it. The scenery along the California coast makes it one of those drives you actually enjoy rather than just tolerate.
SLO itself is a delightful town to explore on foot. Don’t let the college-town label fool you; it’s welcoming and enjoyable for anyone. Plenty of independent shops, great restaurants, and a relaxed energy that makes solo wandering feel completely natural. Two stops I’d put on any list are Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a stunning 1772 Spanish mission right in the heart of downtown, and Bubblegum Alley, a quirky local landmark where the walls are covered floor to ceiling in chewing gum. It sounds strange, and it absolutely is, but it’s also one of those only-here moments you won’t forget.
There are a few more spots I have on my list for my next visit, including the Thursday Night Farmers Market on Higuera Street, which is said to be one of the best in California, and the iconic Madonna Inn, even if you don’t stay there, the pink and gold décor is worth a peek. They have a wonderful restaurant and bakery.
I typically stayed in Pismo Beach when I visited, and honestly, the beach was the anchor for me. I loved being right on the water with the option to drive into SLO whenever I felt like it, the best of both worlds for a solo trip. The Pismo Beach Pier is a classic California experience, the Oceano Dunes are a unique coastal landscape worth seeing, and the fresh seafood, especially the clam chowder, is a Pismo staple you shouldn’t skip.
One thing I wish I’d known about on my visits is the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of monarch butterflies cluster in the eucalyptus trees from November through February. It’s the kind of magical, unexpected experience that solo travel is made for; it’s now firmly on my list for my next trip.
Just a short drive north of Pismo is Avila Beach, a quieter, slightly more upscale coastal town with a charming small downtown and a beautiful beach. It has a completely different feel from Pismo and is worth an afternoon if you want to explore a little further up the coast.
San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach together make for a solo trip that’s as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be — and the kind of destination you’ll find yourself wanting to return to.
South & Gulf Coast Solo Travel Destinations
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio is a culture-rich city that surprises many first-time visitors with just how much there is to do. Whether you road trip in, fly and rent a car, or rely on Uber for a few activities beyond the downtown core, this city is genuinely easy and enjoyable to explore solo.
The River Walk
The River Walk was the thing I was most excited about before visiting, and it did not disappoint. My favorite memory is walking along the river early in the morning before the crowds arrived, just me, the water, and the sound of the city waking up. That kind of quiet solo moment is exactly what solo travel is made for. As the day goes on, the River Walk gets busier, so I’d recommend getting out early if you want that peaceful experience. If you’d rather sit back and take it in, boat cruises along the river are a lovely, low-key activity. Shops and restaurants line the entire walk, making it a destination you could honestly spend a full day exploring.
The Alamo
The Alamo is an absolute must-see, especially for history lovers. It’s a beautiful and moving landmark that marks a significant chapter in Texas history and American independence. Best of all, admission is free, though you’ll want to reserve your tickets in advance before your trip.
Tower of the Americas
You’ve probably seen the Tower of the Americas in photos of the San Antonio skyline. It’s an iconic landmark and worth a visit in person. A short drive from the River Walk, you can take an elevator up to the observation deck for incredible panoramic views of the city. Tours are also available if you want more context. One honest note, I’ve read mixed reviews about the food offered there, so you may want to eat elsewhere and simply enjoy the views.
The Pearl District
The Pearl District is a vibrant neighborhood worth an afternoon of your time. Free to walk around and explore, it has a wonderful variety of food, shops, and entertainment, plus a popular farmers market. I only stopped in briefly for ice cream when meeting a friend, but the place’s energy was immediately appealing, and it’s on my list for a longer visit next time.
A Little Further Out
If amusement parks are your thing, Six Flags Texas is about a 20-minute drive and could make for a fun solo adventure day.
On My List for Next Time
San Antonio has more than you can cover in one trip. A few things I’m saving for my next visit include the King William Historic District, the museums and gardens at Brackenridge Park, and the evening light show at San Fernando Cathedral, which sounds absolutely stunning. There is so much heart in this city — you would have no trouble filling a solo trip with experiences worth remembering.
Savannah, GA
Savannah is a destination that feels almost too good to be true, the perfect-sized city with the perfect mix of art, architecture, incredible food, and Southern hospitality. It’s also one of the most solo-friendly cities I’ve visited, with so much to explore on foot that you could fill three days without ever feeling like you needed a companion.
Historic Downtown
Walking through Savannah’s historic downtown district feels like stepping onto a movie set. The buildings, the moss-draped trees, the architecture around every corner, it’s endlessly photogenic and completely free to explore. Some areas worth wandering include Jones Street, lined with some of the most beautiful historic homes you’ll ever see, Broughton Street for shops and restaurants, and Historic River Street along the waterfront, where you’ll find more shops, restaurants, and an interesting variety of boats docked along the river. We actually grabbed tickets and rode one, a fun and relaxing way to see the waterfront from a completely different perspective.
Forsyth Park was high on my list and absolutely delivered. You may recognize it from films like Forrest Gump and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — the iconic fountain, winding paths, and peaceful gardens make it one of those places you visit intending to stay twenty minutes and end up lingering for much longer. It’s the kind of park that feels made for a solo morning with a coffee in hand.
Churches & Historic Sites
I love visiting architecturally significant churches when I travel, and Savannah has two that were amazing. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is breathtaking inside and out, and Congregation Mickve Israel, one of the oldest synagogues in the country, offers tours that I found genuinely fascinating. It’s the kind of unexpected experience that makes solo travel rewarding.
Bonaventure Cemetery is one of those only-in-Savannah experiences that sounds unusual but is actually incredibly beautiful. The moss-covered oak trees and elaborate historic monuments make it one of the most photographed spots in the city and a peaceful place to wander solo.
Food
Every meal I had in Savannah was good, many unique restaurants. The standout was the Olde Pink House, an iconic Savannah restaurant with food that matched the atmosphere perfectly. Make a reservation in advance because it fills up quickly, and it’s worth planning around.
Three days in Savannah felt full and satisfying in the best possible way. It’s a city that rewards slow exploration, and solo travel is honestly the perfect way to experience it.
One thing worth noting for solo travelers specifically — Savannah has a wonderfully slow, unhurried pace that makes it an ideal first solo destination. Most of the historic downtown is walkable, and I felt completely safe exploring on my own. That combination of walkability, safety, and Southern warmth makes it one of those destinations I’d confidently recommend to any woman considering her first solo trip.
Orlando, FL
Orlando is so much more than theme parks, and as someone who has explored this city, I can tell you it absolutely holds up as a solo destination.
Yes, Disney World is here, and I went solo and have zero regrets. But Orlando’s food scene, neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and easy access to day trips like Kennedy Space Center make it a destination worth considering, even if theme parks aren’t your thing.
I’ve put together a complete guide to things to do in Orlando beyond Disney and Universal. Everything from hidden gems and local neighborhoods to day trips and where to stay.
If a solo Disney trip is on your bucket list, because it absolutely should be, I have a dedicated post for that, too.
Orlando is easy to reach from almost anywhere in the country, offers accommodation options at every price point, and offers something genuinely different for every kind of solo traveler.
Destinations Also Worth Considering
Solo women travelers highly recommend these destinations, and they’re also on my own travel list. I’m always researching my next trip, and these are places that keep rising to the top for good reason.
Asheville, NC
Asheville is one of those destinations that solo women travelers consistently rave about, and the research backs it up. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, this creative, artsy city is perfect if you want to be inspired and get the creative juices flowing. The downtown area is walkable and filled with independent galleries, boutique shops, and a food-and-craft-brewery scene that has earned national attention. The River Arts District is for those who appreciate creativity and seek inspiration. Working artists open their studios to visitors, making it a genuinely unique experience. Nature lovers will appreciate easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic drive or hiking. Asheville has a welcoming, laid-back energy that solo women travelers consistently describe as immediately comfortable, and a place where you settle in quickly and don’t want to leave.
Fredericksburg, TX
If you love wine, history, and small-town charm, Fredericksburg is a destination to explore. Located a little over an hour north of San Antonio, this Texas Hill Country gem has a strong German heritage that shows up everywhere from the architecture to the food, giving it a unique character you won’t find anywhere else in the state. Main Street is lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms. The Texas Hill Country wine region surrounding Fredericksburg is one of the fastest-growing in the country. It’s a walkable, manageable size that makes it ideal for solo exploration, and the friendly small-town atmosphere means you’ll never feel out of place on your own.
Galveston, TX
If you love the beach and like unique adventures, Galveston is worth serious consideration. This Gulf Coast island city combines a beautiful beachfront with a surprisingly rich historic downtown, Victorian architecture, and a genuine local culture that sets it apart from typical beach destinations. The Strand Historic District is a walkable stretch of galleries, shops, and restaurants that could easily fill a full day of solo exploring. Pleasure Pier sits right on the Gulf and offers rides and entertainment with views of the ocean. Galveston is easy to reach, particularly if you’re combining it with a San Antonio or Austin road trip through Texas, and consistently earns high marks from solo women travelers for its friendly, welcoming vibe.
Destination Honorable Mentions
These are destinations I’ve personally enjoyed that deserve a spot on any solo travel list. Each one has plenty to keep you busy without feeling overwhelmed to navigate on your own.
Charleston, SC – A beautifully preserved historic city with stunning architecture, incredible food, and a warmth that feels distinctly Southern. The historic downtown is walkable, the restaurant scene is outstanding, and solo women travelers consistently feel welcome and safe here.
Colorado Springs, CO – As a Colorado native, I may be biased, but Colorado Springs is one of the best solo destinations in the state. Garden of the Gods alone is worth the trip, a stunning free park with dramatic red rock formations and easy walking trails. Add Pikes Peak, the charming Old Colorado City neighborhood, and easy access to outdoor adventures, and you have a destination that works for every kind of solo traveler. I created a Colorado Springs Guide that provides more details and ideas.
Corpus Christi/Padre Island, TX – If a beach destination with fun outdoor adventures appeals to you, this Gulf Coast gem delivers. Padre Island National Seashore is one of the longest undeveloped barrier islands in the world and a truly unique natural experience, and one of my favorite experiences at a National Park. Corpus Christi adds a waterfront downtown, the Texas State Aquarium, and the USS Lexington aircraft carrier museum for those who want more than just beach time.
How to Research Any Destination Not on This List
The destinations I’ve shared here are a starting point, but not a complete list. There are many incredible solo travel destinations all across the USA waiting to be discovered, and part of the joy of travel planning is finding the ones that speak specifically to you.
Here’s how I approach researching any new destination:
Start with Online Search — Search the destination name plus “solo travel” or “solo travel for women” and see what comes up. Pay close attention to reviews written by solo women travelers specifically. They’ll mention details that matter most — neighborhood safety, ease of getting around, and how welcoming locals were.
Look for travel blogs with firsthand experience — Generic listicles are everywhere. Look for bloggers who have actually visited and write from personal experience. The specific details they share, the research they have done, the restaurant they loved, and the neighborhood they’d avoid at night are far more valuable than recycled information.
Check Facebook groups — Solo women travel groups on Facebook are incredibly active and generous with information. Post your destination question, and you’ll get honest, firsthand responses from women who have actually been there. You are welcome to join my Travel Confidence Group – for Solo Women 40+.
Ask yourself the five questions — Before you go too far down the research rabbit hole, revisit the five questions from my companion post. Your answers will quickly tell you whether a destination is the right fit, regardless of how beautiful it looks on Pinterest.
Still not sure? That’s exactly what I’m here for. Reach out and let’s talk through your options together. Finding the right destination for the right traveler is one of my favorite parts of what I do. Connect with me here.
FAQs
A few more questions answered to help you decide what the perfect plan is for you.
How do I know if a destination is too big for my first solo trip?
A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself how you’d feel arriving alone with no one to help you navigate. If the answer is “completely overwhelmed,” it’s probably too big for your first trip. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are wonderful destinations, but they have a learning curve that can feel like a lot when you’re also managing the emotions of your first solo experience. Look for destinations where you can orient yourself quickly, feel comfortable in your surroundings by day two, and spend your energy enjoying the trip rather than just figuring it out. The destinations on this list were chosen with exactly that in mind.
How do I find solo-friendly hotels in any city?
Start by reading reviews on Google and TripAdvisor and look specifically for solo travelers if that option is available. Pay attention to comments about neighborhood safety, walkability, and how the staff treats guests checking in alone. Look for hotels in well-reviewed central neighborhoods rather than the cheapest option on the outskirts of town. Boutique hotels and well-known hotel brands in downtown areas tend to be reliable choices for solo women.
And don’t be afraid to call or email the hotel directly to ask questions; a hotel that responds warmly and helpfully before you’ve even booked is a very good sign. I like B&Bs because they are personal, and the caretakers typically care about their guests and the details of their stay.
What if I want to visit a destination not on this list?
Go for it! This list of destinations is meant to inspire and guide you, not limit you. Use the research tips above to evaluate any destination through a solo-friendly lens. If you want a second opinion or help thinking it through, feel free to reach out. I love helping women find destinations that fit their specific travel style and comfort level.
Is it safe to visit these destinations as a solo woman?
Every destination on this list has been chosen with safety in mind, and it is considered safe and welcoming for solo women travelers. However, smart travel habits apply wherever you decide to go and listen to your gut. Choose well-reviewed neighborhoods, share your itinerary with someone you trust at home, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Safety isn’t about fear; it’s about preparation. And preparation is something you absolutely can do.
Final Thoughts on Solo Travel Destinations for Women
I genuinely get excited when I’m planning a trip, and choosing a solo destination is one of the most fun parts. This list gives you a detailed and inspiring place to start, but don’t let it limit you either. As you dig deeper into your research, you’ll discover other activities, landmarks, and hidden gems that speak specifically to you. Take what excites you from here and build a solo trip that feels completely your own.
That’s really what solo travel is all about.
If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, or just want to talk through what a solo trip might actually look like for you, I’m always here. Whether you need a sounding board or full planning help, reaching out is easy, and there’s no pressure.
You can do this. And I promise you — once you take that first solo trip, something shifts. Your confidence grows, your world opens up, and you’ll wonder why you waited so long to start.
