8 of the best places in America to travel solo

Traveling alone in the U.S. isn’t just for wide-eyed backpackers. The country offers a surprising breadth of experiences that suit solo travelers of all types. 

From city-slick museums to rugged national parks, the U.S. has spots where you can lean into solitude or seek connection.

Solo travel in America is thriving, too. The flexibility is a major plus: you can plot a road trip, take day hikes in remote landscapes, or wander a walkable city at your own pace. The best solo destinations remove the pressure of keeping up with a group, and instead, you can choose your own rhythm. 

Here are eight of the best places to travel solo around the U.S.

Andy He / Unsplash

D.C. tops Travel + Leisure’s list for solo travel because of its walkability, public transit, and the abundance of free Smithsonian museums.

Joshua Sortino / Unsplash

The Soloist suggests San Francisco for solo travelers because the city offers parks, historic sites, and nature trails, all accessible without a car, making it a safe and intuitive city to explore alone.

Wendy Shervington / Unsplash

Travel + Leisure highlights Santa Fe’s adobe charm, galleries, and even secluded spa lodges, making it a peaceful retreat for solo travelers.

Tom Gainor / Unsplash

The Soloist spotlighted Moab for its access to both Arches and Canyonlands national parks, where hiking and off-roading are ideal solo activities.

Henry Fraczek / Unsplash

Travel + Leisure calls Boise a paradise for outdoor lovers, with its riverside biking trails, nearby mountain hikes, and a cozy but active city feel.

Mana5280 / Unsplash

U.S. News positions Carmel-by-the-Sea as an easygoing escape, defined by its compact downtown, scenic shoreline, and access to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The town’s mix of beaches and protected nature areas gives solo travelers a calm, self-paced itinerary.

Ashley Knedler / Unsplash

U.S. News recommends Savannah for its walkable grid, leafy parks, and themed tours that make it simple for solo travelers. The city’s ghost walks, trolley routes, and riverfront paths offer structured ways to engage with local culture.

Chad Morehead / Unsplash

The Soloist emphasizes Nashville’s live-music scene, accessible honky-tonk bars, and friendly places to eat solo, making it easy to soak up the city on your own terms.