The United States is a massive country of 50 states and one unincorporated territory. It is a country that offers solo travelers an unbelievable amount of options in terms of climate and activities.
Mainland America is 2,892 miles (4,654 km) from its farthest point east (West Quoddy Head, Maine) to its farthest point west (Point Arena, California). The USA is a vast land area of amazing cities, towns, and attractions in between those two points. Due to America’s grand size, it isn't easy to see it all – unless you have plenty of time on your hands.
There are a plethora of solo travel destinations in the US and each is unique in its own way.
Let's explore the 10 best places to travel solo in the USA.
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Boulder is an outdoor haven for anyone who loves hiking, mountain biking, or camping in the great outdoors. The city has over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. Boulder offers an atmosphere that is very different from other parts of Middle America.
It is home to Colorado University and is far more relaxed due to its origins as a college town. Due to the influx of higher learners and nature lovers, Boulder has a more liberal, open-minded attitude.
Visitors who travel alone will find local breweries producing IPAs and restaurants serving up locally sourced foods. They all go down well after physical activity on the trails and in the mountains.
Address: Boulder, CO
Also Read: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Boulder, Colorado
Lying at the southern end of US Route 1 is Key West. It is the southernmost city in the continental USA and is just four miles long and one mile wide. Despite its small size, Key West is a gorgeous laidback Florida town unlike any other in the state.
Key West is famed for its happy hour and locals live by the motto of live and let live. Key West has been a destination for the rich and famous as well as famous writers for decades. Famed American playwright Tennessee Williams and novelist Ernest Hemingway all resided on the island-city.
Key West’s tropical climate makes winters wonderful for those used to cold weather. November to April is typically the best time to visit Key West as it is the dry season and most pleasant.
Address: Key West, FL
San Francisco is home to famous, must-see landmarks and attractions. The northern California city’s most famous attraction is the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. It links San Francisco to Marin County and solo travelers can walk across the bridge and even peruse the gift shop.
Alcatraz is an American National Park and top destination drawing over 1.4 million people each year. It is a great venue to explore and learn about history of the prison once known as The Rock.
Address: San Francisco, CA
There is no more iconic USA city than New York City. Home to the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park, NYC is perfect for anyone regardless if they travel alone or with friends. The City that Never Sleeps has so many attractions to see, solo travelers will need to plan accordingly.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck is located in Rockefeller Center. The three-floor observation deck is a great way to see across the city. NYC is also home to countless five-star hotels and restaurants with world-class chefs. New York has everything and more for solo travelers and adventurers.
Address: New York City, New York
Also Read: Top 50 NYC Attractions
Chicago has always been known as America’s “Second City” behind NYC. Yet, it is often overlooked for Los Angeles as well. The Windy City is a true gem lying on the shores of Lake Michigan.
In the summer months, the beaches along Lake Michigan are pack with sunbathers and swimmers escaping the summer heat.
Navy Pier, opened in 1916, is a beautiful area of restaurants, shops, and a 3D IMAX theater. There are also amusement rides including a Ferris wheel providing views of the Windy City.
Address: Chicago, IL
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago
Often call “the New York City of the South”, Atlanta was one of the first cosmopolitan cities in the region. It has attracted people from all over the south for decades and continues to grow.
Home to Coca-Cola, solo travelers shouldn’t miss their chance to tour the World of Coca-Cola museum. It offers a look into the past of the iconic drink found everywhere in the world.
Atlanta wasn’t just the birthplace of Coca-Cola, but it was also a center for the human rights movement in the USA. The Center for Civil Rights and Human Rights showcases the struggle black Americans had during the 1950s and 1960s. It is a moving and humbling experience.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Atlanta
Address: Atlanta, GA
Austin is one of the fastest growing cities in the USA. Home to the University of Texas, many people claim Austin is unlike the rest of the state.
That makes a lot of sense due to the large number people who attend the university from outside of Texas and from other countries.
The melting pot of Austin is also made up of international employees who work for the city’s businesses. Austin has become a hot-bed for start-ups and Fortune 500 companies.
Thanks to the unique mix of people, Austin has an eclectic nightlife scene that rivals all other USA cities.
Address: Austin, TX
Portland is often described as the USA’s most hipster city. Thanks to its individualism, plethora of local breweries, coffeehouses, and indie stores, Portland does fit the mold.
Travelers will find plenty of flannel button down shirts and beards in Portland, but they will also find a range of great outdoor activities.
Running and hiking trails snake through the Oregon countryside making Portland a Mecca for nature lovers. Forest Park’s 80-miles of trails are a must-visit for exploration when in Portland.
Address: Portland, OR
Also Read: The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary in Portland, Oregon
Nashville is a lot like Austin in terms of its rising importance in the USA. And like Austin, it is far different than many visitors would expect it to be like.
Home to country music, visitors can experience amazing music venues, theaters, and shows nearly every night of the week.
The Grand Ole Opry is the city’s most legendary music venue and weekly shows have been performed on its stage since 1926.
After taking in a music show, why not visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn even more about the genre?
Address: Nashville, TN
What happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas was the marketing slogan for the city in the 1990s and 2000s.
Despite there being some very grown up things to do in Las Vegas still, it has become far more welcoming for families or people who travel alone and want to escape the casinos and bars.
Of course, solo travelers can still enjoy gambling at the casinos, lounging by swimming pools all day long, and taking in entertainment shows.
Visitors can even get married at the Little Chapel if they find Mr. or Ms. Right. You may travel alone when you arrive, but you could leave with a new love.
Everything happens on the Las Vegas Strip as cliched as the area may be. Solo travelers will find the Bellagio’s fountains, MGM Grand, and other must-visit locations on the legendary strip.
Address: Las Vegas, NV
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas