Introduction

Traveling as a woman solo can be both exciting and challenging, there are so many places to discover, cultures to experience, and new people to meet. When I think about traveling alone, I want to make sure I am going to have memorable experiences, but I also want those experiences to be safe for me, I’m sure you feel the same way. That’s why I am creating this list.

The United States has so many unique places that are perfect for female solo travelers, each of these destinations offers its own charm, activities, and sightseeing opportunities. While road trips through America’s small towns are iconic, I’m focusing this article on cities that offer great experiences for solo female travelers.

I picked these 29 cities based on their uniqueness, activities for visitors, and, most importantly, their safety.

TL;DR

Here’s a quick guide to the best places in the USA for solo female travelers, categorized for your travel interests

This article focuses on major cities that are safe and exciting for solo female travelers.

City Explorers’ Paradise: 

San Francisco, California; Seattle, Washington; New York City, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Boston, Massachusetts

Outdoor Adventurers’ Haven:

Denver, Colorado; Boulder, Colorado; Asheville, North Carolina; Sedona, Arizona; Anchorage, Alaska

Beach Getaway Spots:

San Diego, California; Key West, Florida; Honolulu, Hawaii; Santa Monica, California

History Buff’s Dream:

Savannah, Georgia; Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Charleston, South Carolina; Boston, Massachusetts

Art and Culture Enthusiasts’ Picks:

Portland, Oregon; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Nashville, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana; Providence, Rhode Island

Music Lovers’ Delight:

Austin, Texas; Nashville, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana

Quaint and Charming Escapes:

Madison, Wisconsin; Savannah, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Burlington, Vermont

Relaxing Retreats:

Scottsdale, Arizona; Asheville, North Carolina

Foodies’ Favorite Destinations:

San Francisco, California; Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; New Orleans, Louisiana; Austin, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; New York, New York

You’ll notice I listed several places under multiple headings, some locations are great for multiple travel goals.

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US

San Francisco, California

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco at twilight

What to Do:

The obvious first choice is visiting the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz Island, but there is much more to San Francisco. The top of your San Francisco travel checklist list should include Fisherman’s Wharf, which is a tourist destination in and of itself with sightseeing, shopping, great food, and attractions (both modern and some more historic).

Conveniently the Powell-Hyde cable car line takes you right to Fisherman’s Wharf and you also get great views of Lombard Street, Coit Tower, and Alcatraz, not a bad sightseeing option for around $8 at the time of writing.

Why It’s Great: 

San Francisco is known for its diverse culture, safety, and endless activities. Plus, it’s a foodie paradise! It’s also a popular destination where you can easily meet other solo female travelers.

Fun Fact: 

San Francisco’s fog has a name – Karl!

Seattle, Washington

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US
Seattle Night Skyline

What to Do: 

Check out Pike Place Market, take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel, visit the Space Needle, and enjoy the Museum of Pop Culture.

Depending on the season you are visiting, taking a whale-watching trip is a pretty amazing experience, I only got to see two whales, but the other animals and views of the mountains were worth it.  I  recommend strolling from the Space Needle to the International Fountain and enjoying the views.

Why It’s Great: 

Seattle is friendly, has great public transport, and offers plenty of coffee shops to relax in between adventures.

Fun Fact: 

Everybody knows Seattle is home to the first-ever Starbucks, but did you know Seattle is also home to a bridge troll? Check out the Fremont Troll when you are there.

Portland, Oregon

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Portland city downtown, Columbia River and national forest park Mount Hood.

What to Do: 

The Portland Japanese Garden, which is considered the most authentic Japanese Garden outside of Japan, is one of many great attractions in Portland.  In addition to the Japanese Garden, there are several other parks in the city including the International Rose Test Garden, the Lan Su Chinese Garden, and Washington Park.  

Portland is home to the world’s largest independent book store Powell’s City of Books, it’s worth checking out. Portland is also home to a vibrant food truck scene, which just adds to the awesome eclectic nature of the city, Portland is on my “must visit” list, and I think it should be on yours.

Why It’s Great:

Portland’s quirky, laid-back vibe makes it perfect for solo travelers. Plus, it’s super bike-friendly.

Fun Fact: 

Portland has more breweries than any other city in the world.

New York City, New York

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
New York Skyline with One World Trade

What to Do: 

Times Square is a great first stop, it is a busy, people-filled place, with so many iconic sights. If you are like me and don’t like super people-y areas, Times Square might not be a space you want to spend a lot of time in (there are also several scammers, but you can just walk away), the great news is New York has so much to do and see.

Central Park is huge and a great place to take a relaxing walk, or horse-drawn carriage ride, in the middle of a huge city. There are several museums to explore including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The American Museum of Natural History- which happens to be right next to Central Park. There are a number of Broadway shows you can see and tickets are usually readily available except for a few hugely popular shows.

Taking a ferry out to Liberty Island and seeing the Statue of Liberty is an iconic trip, you also have great views of the city. On the ferry trip back you can choose to stop at Elis Island and check out the museum, or look up your relatives (if they came through Elis Island).

New York literally has too many sights and attractions for me to mention them all in this post, so the last thing I will include here is pizza. There are several pizza tours you can take, but they are pricey, you can create a personal tour using Google Maps.

Why It’s Great: 

The city that never sleeps offers endless activities and attractions, with a bustling vibe that’s both thrilling and safe, though I do personally think you need to exercise caution and common sense.

There are several scams and possible petty crimes to be aware of in New York, much like any other big city. New York City is also a top destination for solo female travel due to its endless activities and vibrant atmosphere.

Fun Fact:

NYC’s public library system has over 92 locations – more than any other city in the world.

Chicago, Illinois

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Cloud Gate Centennial Park Chicago

What to Do: 

Chicago is home to several great museums, the most famous of which might be the Art Institute of Chicago, I also think the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry are worth checking out if you have time.

Navy Pier is one of the top attractions in the entire Midwest, there are restaurants, games, and rides including the 200-foot tall Centennial Wheel. Navy Pier is also the starting spot for several boat tours through Chicago.

Millennium Park is a great place to relax, check out fountains and sculptures, and walk the tranquil gardens. Take a few minutes while you are there to look at the Bean (not its official name, which is Cloud Gate), I do think the Bean is much cooler at night, with the city lights reflecting off of it.

The walk along Lake Michigan is also not to be missed, just look out for the geese, they do not want to be your friend.

Why It’s Great:

Chicago’s mix of culture, architecture, and friendly locals makes it a solo traveler’s dream. As a pizza lover, I also have to add Chicago Deep Dish. Chicago is also a safe and exciting destination for solo women, with plenty of cultural and culinary experiences.

The one caveat I will place on Chicago is that it’s best to stay in the tourist areas, there are a few neighborhoods that I would not consider safe for solo trips, or tourists in general.

Fun Fact:

Chicago’s river is dyed green every year for St. Patrick’s Day.

Austin, Texas

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Skyline of Austin, Texas

What to Do: 

Listen to live music on 6th Street in Austin’s entertainment district, Austin residents will tell you that you can find people performing all over the city. Kayaking on Lady Bird Lake is a very popular activity and you don’t have to worry about motor boats since they aren’t allowed on the lake.

The Texas Capital Building, which is the largest state capital building in the United States, is an amazing part of Austin’s skyline and a sight worth seeing. Austin, in addition to being the state capital, is known as the culinary capital of Texas so if you are a foodie, it’s the place to be.

Why It’s Great:

Austin’s welcoming atmosphere and vibrant arts scene make it an exciting destination for solo travelers. It’s also a great place to meet other women travelers due to its numerous social events and friendly locals.

Fun Fact: 

Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

Boston, Massachusetts

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Boston downtown historical architecture

What to Do: 

Boston is a city you can’t think about without remembering your school lessons about a certain tea party held at Boston Harbor in 1773. The city is a must-visit for a history buff, I haven’t made it there yet, but it’s on my “going soon” list. There are almost too many historic locations to list, but here are my five “must sees” for when I visit: Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, USS Constitution Museum, Paul Revere House, Bunker Hill Monument, and the Old State House Museum.

If you are like me and have always dreamed of going to Salem for Halloween, Boston is only 20 miles away. Halloween might be hard to get reservations for as some hotels are booked out for two-plus years for that week, but the town has enough dark history, ghost tours, and tourist attractions to be worth visiting any time of year.

Boston has possibly one of the most obsessed fandoms in all of sports (I say this as a Wisconsinite… Packers anyone?)- The Red Sox. The Sox suffered an 86-year championship drought, but the fans still make their way to Fenway Park, so if you are a sports aficionado, you might want to check out Fenway and its famous Green Monster.

If sports and history aren’t your cup of tea (get it?) the greater Boston area is also home to several incredible universities that you might have heard of: Harvard and MIT. There are more than 55 universities in the greater Boston area.

Why It’s Great:

Boston’s rich history and compact size make it easy to explore solo. Many women who have traveled solo to Boston appreciate its rich history and walkability.

Fun Fact: 

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the U.S., Boston Common.

Savannah, Georgia

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Historic District waterfront of Savannah, Georgia

What to Do: 

Wander through Forsyth Park, explore historic homes, and enjoy River Street for its food, shops, and street performers. Savannah boasts numerous rooftop bars, they are a great way to enjoy the city’s nightlife with a view.

Savannah is home to several ghost tours, I haven’t personally taken one in Savannah, but I have taken a few ghost tours, and I think they are worthwhile (even if you are a non-believer) for the awesome history and the experience.

Why It’s Great:

Savannah’s charm, history, and walkability make it a perfect solo travel destination.

Fun Fact:

Savannah’s Historic District is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the U.S.

Denver, Colorado

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Downtown Denver City Skyline

What to Do: 

Denver is a laid-back city that is amazing for outdoor activities. Within the city you can check out local breweries, the Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Botanic Gardens.

If you are looking for a more outdoorsy experience Denver is 15 miles from the famous Red Rocks Park- don’t worry if you don’t have a car, there is a shuttle bus. Denver is also about 65 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, which can be reached via bus if you do not have a car in the city.

Why It’s Great:

Denver’s outdoor activities and friendly locals make it a great spot for solo adventurers. It’s a fantastic place for a trip solo, with its friendly locals and numerous outdoor activities.

Fun Fact: 

Denver has over 300 days of sunshine a year.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Santa Fe Road Sign

What to Do:

Santa Fe is the third largest art market in the US and has an amazing amount of art galleries (100+) packed into a 2-mile radius on Canyon Road. In addition to the galleries, Santa Fe is within 60 miles of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, so it’s great if you enjoy or want to purchase art.

The historic Santa Fe Plaza has been the heart of the city for nearly 400 years, hosting different markets, community events, and concerts, and is one of many spots to relax and soak in the city center.

Santa Fe is home to several hot springs and spas, so if relaxing is your goal while traveling solo you might want to add Santa Fe to your itinerary.

Why It’s Great:

Santa Fe’s artsy vibe and unique culture make it a fascinating place to explore alone. Additionally, Santa Fe is a popular destination for women travelers due to its vibrant arts scene and welcoming atmosphere.

Fun Fact:

Santa Fe is the oldest state capital in the U.S., founded in 1610.

Nashville, Tennessee

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Tennessee state capitol building in Nashville

What to Do:  

Nashville is the home of country music, so naturally visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry are the obvious first stops. Nashville’s nightlife is centered on it’s main strip Broadway a.k.a. Honkytonk Highway. One of the most unique sights in Nashville is a replica of the Parthenon which is located in Centennial Park. For the foodies out there, be sure to check out Prince’s Hot Chicken, the birthplace of Nashville hot chicken. 

Why It’s Great:

Nashville’s music scene and friendly locals make it an exciting and safe place for solo travel.

Fun Fact: 

Nashville is home to the world’s only full-scale replica of the Parthenon.

San Diego, California

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Coronado Bridge with San Diego skyline

What to Do:

San Diego is known for its beaches- including Coronado Beach on Coronado Island, and La Jolla Cove, but there are many other attractions for solo female travelers to enjoy.

San Diego Zoo is ranked among the top zoos in the USA, with over 12,000 animals. San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, which is well known for its museums, themed gardens, and many hiking trails. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a bit of untouched nature within the city limits of San Diego- which, in my opinion, might be one of the coolest things about San Diego.

If Nature isn’t your thing, the Gaslamp Quarter is known for its clubs, dive bars, and cocktail lounges so you can experience the best of San Diego nightlife.

Why It’s Great:

San Diego’s perfect weather and beach vibes make it a fantastic destination for solo travelers. It is also a fantastic destination for women traveling alone, with its perfect weather and numerous attractions.

Fun Fact:

San Diego has the largest concentration of small farms in the U.S.

Charleston, South Carolina

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Historical downtown area of Charleston, South Carolina

What to Do: 

Walk through the historic downtown and check out the Charleston City Market- the market stretches for four city blocks and was established in 1790, making it one of the oldest public markets in the US. Charleston is well known for its miles of sandy beaches, great restaurants, and its historic landmarks.

Charleston is home to several picturesque and historic plantations, among them are Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Boone Hall Plantation. Boone Hall is possibly most known for it’s often-photographed avenue of oak trees, and is one of the oldest plantations still in operation in the US. Magnolia Plantation is now open for tours dedicated to history and it’s extensive gardens.

I personally would visit Charleston in the spring, for one reason, the magnolia trees are in bloom. I absolutely love the smell of the magnolia flower and it’s worth the trip just for that in my opinion.

Why It’s Great:

Charleston’s Southern charm, history, and safety make it ideal for solo travel.

Fun Fact: 

Charleston was named after King Charles II of England.

Boulder, Colorado

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Chautauqua Park in Boulder Colorado

What to Do: 

Hike in Chautauqua Park, explore Pearl Street Mall, visit the University of Colorado campus, and enjoy the local breweries. Boulder is known for its trails, there are over 200 trails for hiking, biking, or trail running. It’s truly a great place for a solo trip if you are into hiking or biking.

Why It’s Great:

Boulder’s outdoor activities and laid-back vibe make it perfect for solo adventurers.

Fun Fact: 

Boulder is often ranked as one of the healthiest cities in the U.S.

Washington, D.C.

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Washington DC with Washington monument and Thomas Jefferson memorial.

What to Do: 

Visit the Smithsonian museums (all of the Smithsonian museums are free!), and walk the National Mall to see the many monuments and reflecting pool. The cherry blossoms in spring are not to be missed. As an added bonus, you might miss the peak humidity if you visit DC in the spring.

In addition to the many iconic monuments on the National Mall, DC is also home to Arlington National Cemetery. The cemetery is a mile walk (there are transit solutions available) from the Lincoln Memorial, seeing the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a moving experience.

As the seat of the federal government of the United States, you can imagine that DC is filled with federal buildings, and many offer tours- some tours might need to be booked well in advance, as spaces are limited.

Why It’s Great:

D.C.’s rich history, walkability, and free attractions make it a great destination for solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

Washington, D.C. has no skyscrapers because no building is allowed to be taller than the Washington Monument.

San Antonio, Texas

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
The Historic Alamo, San Antonio, Texas

What to Do: 

Visit the Alamo, explore the River Walk, enjoy the San Antonio Missions, and stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden. San Antonio is home to one of the top rodeos in Texas, I can’t think of a more Texas activity than attending a rodeo.

Why It’s Great: 

San Antonio’s history and friendly locals make it an inviting place for solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

San Antonio’s River Walk is the largest urban ecosystem in the nation.

Key West, Florida

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Key West Island Florida highway

What to Do: 

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home, explore Duval Street, relax on the beaches, and enjoy a sunset at Mallory Square.

Why It’s Great: 

Key West’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it a perfect spot for solo travel.

Fun Fact: 

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S,

Honolulu, Hawaii

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Honolulu in Oahu, Hawaii, US

What to Do: 

The first thing you will want to do anywhere in Hawaii is take in the views, the beach, the tropical forests and the volcanos (from a distance for the active ones).

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous and most popular beaches in the world, I have never been there, but the photos are so beautiful, it looks worth the visit.

Hawaii is also famous for the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the USS Arizona memorial- though this is a somber memorial, it’s a place of great history for the United States. The USS Oklahoma and the USS Utah also have memorials in Hawaii, but are located on active military bases, so not open to the general public.

Why It’s Great:

Honolulu’s beautiful scenery and friendly vibe make it an ideal solo travel destination. I think Honolulu, and all of Hawaii, should be on your bucket list.

Fun Fact: 

Honolulu means “sheltered harbor” or “calm port.”

Asheville, North Carolina

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains near Ashville, NC

What to Do: 

Explore the Biltmore Estate, hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit the River Arts District, and enjoy the local breweries.

Why It’s Great:

Asheville’s artsy, laid-back vibe and beautiful surroundings make it perfect for solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

Asheville has the most breweries per capita of any city in the U.S.

Sedona, Arizona

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Sedona, Arizona

What to Do: 

Hike in Red Rock State Park, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, explore the local art galleries, and enjoy a vortex tour.

Why It’s Great:

Sedona’s stunning landscapes and spiritual vibe make it a unique destination for solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

Sedona is known for its energy vortexes, which are said to promote healing and meditation.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Minneapolis, Minnesota

What to Do: 

Minneapolis has several great art museums to see along with the Minneapolis Institute of Art, check out the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (and its giant spoon).

If you are looking for a fairly unique experience you should check out the Minneapolis Skywalk. The Skywalk connects more than 80 city blocks and is over 9 miles long. It’s also climate-controlled, which is a bonus if you are visiting Minneapolis in the winter.

Minnesota is known for its lakes, in Minneapolis you can see five of them in the Chain of Lakes Regional Park. You can also take a trip to the Mall of America, it’s not technically in Minneapolis, but it’s very close.

Why It’s Great:

Minneapolis’s friendly atmosphere and vibrant arts scene make it a great spot for solo travel.

Fun Fact: 

Minneapolis has more golfers per capita than any other city in the U.S.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

What to Do: 

Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States and if home to some of the richest historical sights in the United States. The Liberty Bell Center, which houses it’s namesake bell, is a great spot to start a history tour, and it’s located across the street from possibly the most important building in American history- Independence Hall. Independence Hall was the original capital building of the United States, and where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Philadelphia is home to more than 100 museums ranging from art and science to children’s museums. The most famous museums might be the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is widely known for its steps featured in the “Rocky” movies, and the now infamous Mütter Museum, which is a medical museum known for its medical specimens and human remains (it’s not for the squeamish or faint of heart).

Reading Terminal Market is worth checking out, it houses more than 75 vendors with everything from fresh produce to gifts- be sure to check out the underground portion- I haven’t been there in years, but it was so cool.

My last mention for Philadelphia has to be its famous cheesesteak. There are so many places to try one in the city, and every local has a favorite spot, I recommend checking out a few.

Why It’s Great:

Philadelphia’s rich history and compact size make it easy to explore solo.

Fun Fact: 

Philly is home to the first zoo in the United States.

Santa Monica, California

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Santa Monica Beach and the Pier

What to Do: 

First and foremost Santa Monica Pier is iconic around the world, it’s always buzzing with activity. If all the movie and TV shots from Santa Monica Pier were not enough to attract tourists, the food, shops, and amusement park make it easy to see why so many people flock there every year.

Santa Monica is the western endpoint of historic Route 66, which is the classic American road trip running from Chicago to Santa Monica.

Santa Monica Beach is a great place to relax and take in the ocean views, sand, and California sunshine. If you are interested in biking, the 22-mile-long, paved, Marvin Braude/Strand Bike Path runs through Santa Monica Beach.

Why It’s Great: 

Santa Monica offers a relaxed, beachy vibe with plenty of activities and excellent safety.

Fun Fact: 

The Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Park has a solar-powered Ferris wheel.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Frank Lloyd Wright House Scottsdale, Arizona

What to Do: 

Visit Old Town Scottsdale, hike Camelback Mountain, explore the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and relax in the city’s many spas.

Why It’s Great:

Scottsdale’s warm weather and luxurious resorts make it a perfect spot for solo travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Fun Fact: 

Scottsdale is often called “The West’s Most Western Town.”

New Orleans, Louisiana

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
French Quarter, New Orleans

What to Do: 

Explore the French Quarter, visit the National WWII Museum, enjoy a jazz performance on Frenchmen Street, and indulge in beignets at Café du Monde.

When you are in the French Quarter take a horse-drawn carriage tour, there are many available and they are possibly the best way to experience the French Quarter.

If you are the type that likes huge street parties, Mardi Gras might be your scene- I do have to say that you will want to be extra cautious during Mardi Gras, besides the usually big city dangers there is also a lot of drinking, so stay safe, especially as a solo traveler.

Why It’s Great: 

New Orleans’ vibrant culture, music scene, and unique cuisine make it an exciting destination for solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz.

Madison, Wisconsin

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison

What to Do: 

Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol, hike the University of Wisconsin campus, stroll through the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, visit the Monona Terrace, and learn about Frank Lloyd Wright.

I highly recommend walking State Street, it runs from the state capital building eight blocks to the UW campus. The street is home to many shops, restaurants, independent artists selling their work, and musicians busking.

If all that doesn’t interest you, you can enjoy the local farmer’s market, which is the largest producers-only farmers market in the country.

Why It’s Great:

Madison’s friendly atmosphere, beautiful lakes, vibrant food scene, and small-town feel make it a great place for women solo traveling. Madison is a very approachable place for a first solo trip.

Fun Fact: 

Madison has more bikes than cars.

Anchorage, Alaska

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Mountain scene outside Anchorage, Alaska

What to Do: 

Explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, visit the Anchorage Museum, take a day trip to the Kenai Fjords, and enjoy the Northern Lights in winter.

Why It’s Great:

Anchorage’s stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities make it perfect for adventurous solo travelers.

Fun Fact: 

Anchorage is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.

Providence, Rhode Island

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Providence, Rhode Island

What to Do: 

Visit the RISD Museum, explore Water Fire, stroll through the historic East Side, and enjoy the local culinary scene.

Why It’s Great:

Providence’s artsy vibe, historic charm, and compact size make it easy to explore solo.

Fun Fact: 

Providence is home to the oldest indoor shopping mall in America, the Arcade Providence.

Burlington, Vermont

Best Solo Trips For Women In the US, Best Places to Solo Travel Female US
Burlington City Hall in Burlington, Vermont

What to Do: 

Stroll along the Church Street Marketplace, enjoy the scenery at Lake Champlain, visit the Shelburne Museum, and explore the local breweries and farmer’s markets.

Why It’s Great:

Burlington’s small-town charm, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for solo travelers seeking a relaxing and cultural getaway. Burlington is another one of those approachable places that is great for a first solo trip.

Fun Fact: 

Burlington was the first city in the U.S. to run entirely on renewable energy.

Exercising Common Sense When Traveling

While these destinations are generally safe for solo female travelers, it’s always wise to exercise common sense, especially in cities:

  • Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be mindful of your environment, especially in unfamiliar areas.

  • Keep Valuables Secure: Use anti-theft bags and keep your belongings close.

  • Share Your Itinerary: Let someone know your travel plans and check in regularly.

  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from uncomfortable situations.

  • Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps over unmarked vehicles.
  • Research Ahead: Learn about local customs, areas to avoid, and emergency contacts.

Cultural Hints About the United States

  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip 10-20% at sit-down restaurants (meaning restaurants with table service, not fast food places) and for services like taxis and hairdressers. The best rule of thumb for tipping in the United States is that we tip for any service that we could do ourselves, but are having done for us.

  • Friendly Locals: Americans are generally friendly and helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.  Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation with you or ask questions about where you are from or where you are going. As Americans we want everyone to love our home as much as we do, so we will often give you pointers or make suggestions unprompted.

  • Diverse Cuisine: The U.S. offers a vast array of food options reflecting its cultural diversity. Be sure to try regional specialties.

  • Time Zones: The U.S. spans multiple time zones. Plan accordingly if you’re traveling cross-country. It can take several days to drive across the United States depending on your route, starting place, and destination.  Please don’t expect to see New York, Key West, and San Diego in the same week if you are driving.

  • Public Transport: Many cities have reliable public transport, but renting a car is likely going to be necessary if you are traveling through less populated areas.

  • Safety: While the U.S. is generally safe, it’s wise to avoid certain areas, especially at night. Researching local safety tips is always beneficial.

FAQ

Is it safe to travel alone as a female in the US?

Yes, traveling alone as a female in the US is generally safe, especially in the destinations listed in this article. However, it’s important to exercise common sense and stay aware of your surroundings. Researching your destination, staying in reputable accommodations, and keeping your belongings secure can further enhance your safety.

What should I pack for a solo trip?

Pack light and include essentials such as comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, personal hygiene items, medications, a first aid kit, a portable phone charger, and copies of important documents. Depending on your destination, you may also want to pack specific items like a swimsuit for beach locations or hiking gear for outdoor adventures.

If you are from outside of the US or Canada, remember to bring a travel adaptor for your electronics. In hotels where international travelers commonly stay they might have universal outlets, but it’s best to assume they won’t.

How can I meet people while traveling alone?

There are many ways to meet people while traveling solo. Consider joining group tours or activities, staying in social accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, attending local events or festivals, and using social apps geared towards travelers. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or locals.

What are some budget tips for solo travelers?

Accommodation: Consider staying in hostels, or guesthouses, or using platforms like Airbnb for affordable options.
Food: Save money by eating at local markets, and food trucks, or cooking your own meals if you have access to a kitchen.
Transportation: Use public transportation, walk, or rent a bike instead of relying on taxis.
Activities: Look for free or low-cost attractions, such as museums with free admission days, parks, and city tours.
Be Flexible: Obviously this might be more difficult for some travelers, but deals can be found if you are flexible about where and when you are traveling.

How can I ensure my travel documents are safe?

Copies: Make copies of important documents, such as your passport, ID, and travel insurance, and keep them in a separate place from the originals.
Digital Backup: Store digital copies of your documents in a secure cloud storage service.
Safe Storage: Use a hotel safe or a secure travel wallet to keep your documents safe when you’re out exploring.

Conclusion

Traveling solo as a female in the United States can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of Sedona, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. By exercising common sense and immersing yourself in the local culture, you can enjoy an unforgettable solo journey.

Similar Posts