Charleston, South Carolina
Best for: Southern charm
Charleston feels tailor-made for solo travelers who love history, architecture and great food. The compact historic district is wonderfully walkable, so it’s easy to spend the day meandering through pastel-colored streets, admiring centuries-old homes and popping into boutiques or cafes whenever something catches your eye.
One of the best ways to get your bearings is with a walking tour. On my first morning in Charleston, I joined a small-group walking tour with a local historian named Cooper who brought the city’s history to life highlighting architectural styles, famous houses (from those in movies and TV shows to celebrity homes) and hidden corners I might have otherwise missed. From there, it’s easy to explore on your own—browsing the Charleston City Market, window-shopping along King Street (I got a custom hat at Marsh & Magnolia and jewelry at Peyton William) or lingering over a long Southern brunch.
Charleston’s food scene also makes dining solo feel natural. Restaurants like 82 Queen, known for its charming courtyard and classic Lowcountry dishes like she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes, are perfect for a leisurely meal, while elegant spots like Zero George’s caviar bar offer a memorable splurge. And if you time your trip to coincide with the spring Charleston Wine + Food festival (like I did), you’ll get a true taste of the local flavors, stories and creativity that define this city’s longstanding culinary spirit.
Where to stay: The Charleston Place. This iconic hotel sits right in the heart of downtown, within easy walking distance of King Street shopping, the Charleston City Market and many of the city’s best restaurants. Newly renovated rooms and excellent dining options (including a pop-up by chef Daniel Humm—go for happy hour and order the laminated bread, pickled seasonal vegetables, Charleston fried chicken and house fries cooked in duck fat) make it an ideal home base for exploring the city on foot.
Portland, Maine
Best for: Coastal New England vibes
With its working waterfront, historic Old Port district and thriving restaurant scene, Portland offers the kind of laid-back coastal atmosphere that makes exploring alone feel effortless.
Alexandra Dubakova, a travel expert with FreeTour, says the city’s walkable downtown makes it especially appealing for solo travelers. “Portland is my all-time-favorite solo destination,” she says. “It gives the sophistication of a big city without the anxiety or the crowds.” She particularly loves the “cobblestone streets in the Old Port district, the smell of sea salt in the air and a community that is very welcoming.”
Visitors can spend the morning wandering harbor-front streets before heading to nearby Cape Elizabeth to see the iconic Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Another unique experience is the Casco Bay Mailboat Run, a ferry route that delivers mail to island communities while offering scenic views of the coastline. Worried about dining alone? “One thing I love is that the locals there prefer eating at the bar, and you never feel out of place,” Dubakova says.
Where to stay: The Press Hotel. Housed in the former headquarters of the Portland Press Herald, this historic hotel features literary-inspired decor and a central downtown location. “I love that the hotel leaned into its history with letterpress art installed and a wall covered in vintage typewriters,” says Dubakova. “A typewriter is also available for guests.”
Scottsdale, Arizona
Best for: A wellness adventure
Scottsdale offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation, making it a fantastic destination for solo travelers who want to stay active yet enjoy plenty of downtime.
I’ve lived in Phoenix for 23 years, and I spend a lot of time solo in Scottsdale. Start the day with one of the area’s most iconic hikes: Camelback Mountain. The trails are challenging and steep, but the panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert from the summit are worth the effort. Just be sure to bring plenty of water—desert hiking requires preparation, especially during warmer months.
After a morning outdoors, spend the afternoon exploring Old Town Scottsdale, where art galleries, Southwestern boutiques and turquoise jewelry shops line the walkable streets. The weekly Scottsdale ArtWalk is especially fun, giving visitors a chance to browse galleries and mingle with locals. At night, this area transforms into a mini Vegas, with nightclubs and late-night eateries.
When it’s time to refuel, head to Buck & Rider, a local favorite where solo diners can comfortably grab a seat at the bar or enjoy happy hour on the patio (fresh seafood is flown in daily, so order oysters, crab and lobster from the raw bar). For the ultimate reset, book a treatment at Joya Spa at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, home to a stunning 200-year-old cherrywood hammam table and arguably the best spa in the Valley.
Where to stay: Hotel Valley Ho. Located in the heart of Old Town, this stylish midcentury-modern hotel makes a great base for exploring the area on foot. Its lively pool, great restaurant and bar scene and vibrant atmosphere are ideal for meeting new people.
Kansas City, Missouri
Best for: Barbecue lovers
Kansas City may be best known for its legendary barbecue, but the city’s vibrant music scene and growing cocktail culture also make it a rewarding destination for solo travelers.
Travel and food writer Aly Walansky says she was surprised by how much she enjoyed exploring the city on her own. “The barbecue scene was epic, but there were also great cocktail bars and live music spots that made the city really fun to explore solo,” she says. “It was super walkable, and I felt very safe, even when walking by myself in later hours.”
Start with a classic barbecue meal—Walansky recommends hole-in-the-wall Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and says not to be scared that it’s inside a gas station with zero ambience because it has some of the best burnt ends she’s ever had. Then, head out to discover Kansas City’s historic jazz heritage.
Where to stay: Hotel Kansas City. This boutique property occupies a restored 1920s social club building downtown and features an inviting lobby bar, restaurant and live-music venue. “But aside from the glamorous backstory, it felt comfortable and cozy, with a great on-site restaurant and lobby bar and even a hidden spot for live music and nightlife,” says Walansky. “Their cornbread, which is made with local Kansas corn, is insane, and I had a potato chip and green bean salad there—such a crazy combination, but I’m still thinking about it to this day.”
The Palm Beaches, Florida
Best for: A glamorous beach escape
The Palm Beaches, a collection of 39 towns and cities, offers the kind of effortless coastal glamour that makes it especially appealing for solo travelers. I actually visited with my boyfriend last year, but he fell ill the night we arrived, so I did literally everything on my own while he was confined to the hotel room.
One of the pleasures of visiting Palm Beach alone is how effortlessly the day unfolds. I spent hours wandering Worth Avenue’s boutiques, art galleries and charming cafes. When it came time to eat, I found plenty of places where dining solo felt completely natural. One morning, I headed to Benny’s on the Beach, where breakfast comes with sweeping Atlantic views and the sound of waves crashing below the pier.
Afterward, I wandered the length of the pier, watching fishermen reel in their catch. Buccan delivered one of the best meals of the trip with inventive small plates like sweet corn agnolotti, while afternoon tea at Café Boulud offered a refined pause between sightseeing with delicate pastries, proper scones and beautifully brewed tea.
Where to stay: The Colony Hotel. This iconic pink hotel sits just steps from Worth Avenue and the beach, making it an ideal base for exploring Palm Beach on foot. Its vivacious pool scene, stylish lobby and excellent restaurant create plenty of opportunities for solo travelers to socialize or simply soak up the island’s signature glamour.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Best for: Craft food and drinks
Raleigh’s vibrant food and beverage scene makes it a great choice for travelers who enjoy discovering new restaurants, cocktail bars and local breweries. And travel creator Mikkel Woodruff, who first visited Raleigh on a solo trip before eventually moving there, says the city’s welcoming community makes it easy to meet people. “There’s a special camaraderie among locals and visitors,” she says.
Downtown Raleigh offers a mix of museums, galleries and restaurants within easy reach of one another. Monthly First Friday events keep galleries and shops open late (and offer complimentary wine or beer as you walk around), while restaurants like Whiskey Kitchen (order the lamb burger) and Bida Manda (don’t miss the pork belly soup) provide lively atmospheres where solo diners feel right at home.
Where to stay: Longleaf Hotel. This stylish restored motor lodge blends midcentury design with modern comfort and is just a short walk from downtown attractions. “I loved going to the bar there, The Longleaf Lounge, with my husband; they have great cocktails, and you’ll feel transported to the 1960s,” says Woodruff. “The bartenders are always friendly, and as a solo traveler, it will be easy to strike up a conversation.”
Kauai (Lihue), Hawaii
Best for: Outdoor adventure
If your ideal solo trip involves waterfalls, hiking trails and dramatic coastal views, Kauai is hard to beat. I’ve been here at least five times, and it always drops my jaw. Staying near Lihue places travelers within easy reach of many of the island’s most memorable experiences—from kayaking the Wailua River to exploring scenic overlooks at Waimea Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
Travel advisor Dora Liu, who specializes in Hawaii travel, recommends Kauai for travelers who want both adventure and ease. “The entire island of Kauai is an active traveler’s paradise,” she says. “By staying in Lihue, you’re conveniently located to hikes, kayaking and snorkeling.”
Another unforgettable experience is seeing the dramatic Na Pali Coast, where jagged emerald cliffs rise straight out of the Pacific. Boat tours and helicopter flights both offer spectacular views, and guided excursions make it easy for solo travelers to join the adventure.
Where to stay: Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. This oceanfront resort on Kauai’s east side offers easy access to Wailua River kayaking, nearby beaches and cultural activities like hula lessons and ukulele demonstrations.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Best for: Entertainment and nightlife
Las Vegas might seem like a destination built for groups, but it can actually be an easy and entertaining city to explore solo. With world-class restaurants, immersive shows and iconic attractions clustered along the Strip, it’s simple to plan a full day without ever feeling rushed.
Travel writer and Fora travel advisor Melissa Curtin says the city’s variety makes it particularly appealing for independent travelers. “You can create your own trip—whether that’s relaxation, excitement or a bit of both,” she says.
Beyond the casinos, Las Vegas offers plenty of memorable experiences. The massive Sphere hosts immersive shows and films unlike anything else in the world, while Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart delivers a surreal interactive art adventure. Even simply strolling the Strip—stopping to watch the Bellagio fountains or popping into restaurants and cocktail lounges—can easily fill an evening.
Where to stay: Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas. This elegant non-casino hotel offers a quiet retreat from the Strip’s energy while still being within walking distance of major attractions. “My suite was super quiet, with blackout curtains easily shut by the button next to the bed,” Curtin says. “And the spa was just a few floors away, perfect for a few hours of peaceful bliss—it has a steam, sauna, bubbly jacuzzi jet chairs and an Experience Shower with varying temperatures and pressures.”
Chicago, Illinois
Best for: Big-city culture
Chicago combines the energy of a major metropolis with neighborhoods that feel welcoming and easy to explore on your own. From museums and architecture to jazz clubs and lakefront parks, the city offers enough variety to keep solo travelers busy for days.
Travel specialist Diego De Luca with Rome2Rio now calls Chicago home after visiting solo in 2021 and falling in love with the city, and he says the city’s personality is part of the appeal. “Each neighborhood feels like a small town within the metropolis,” he says, pointing to areas like Andersonville, Wicker Park and Lincoln Park as places where cafes, shops and music venues make it easy to connect with locals.
One of the best introductions to the city is an architecture cruise along the Chicago River, where guides explain how Chicago rebuilt itself after the Great Fire and created one of the world’s most recognizable skylines. Afterward, explore the Art Institute of Chicago, listen to jazz at The Green Mill or stroll along the scenic Lakefront Trail.
Where to stay: The Robey Chicago. De Luca favors The Robey, a boutique hotel in Wicker Park. “It’s located around the corner from the L train stops that give travelers easy access to neighboring areas and a convenient train ride to the Chicago O’Hare airport after your stay,” he says. “Once the weather warms up, solo travelers can also take advantage of The Robey’s complimentary bikes to explore the charming Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhoods.”
McMinnville, Oregon
Best for: Wine lovers
Located in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, McMinnville offers an approachable wine country experience that’s perfect for solo travelers who enjoy tasting rooms, great food and charming small towns.
Portland-based travel and food creator Nori De Vega says the welcoming atmosphere keeps her coming back again and again. “I’ve spent so much time in McMinnville as a solo traveler, it became almost like a second home to me,” she says. “The people who live there are so welcoming to visitors. It’s like a cool Pacific Northwest version of a storybook town.”
The main drag is lined with tasting rooms, restaurants and shops, making it easy to spend the day sampling Pinot Noir or enjoying a leisurely brunch at Alea Bakery. And the surrounding valley is home to dozens of wineries, many just a short drive away. De Vega also has another reason to love McMinnville: “The frequency of my solo visits—I go multiple times a year—is a testament to the town’s safety, as well.”
Where to stay: The Atticus Hotel. This stylish boutique hotel sits right in downtown McMinnville, placing guests within walking distance of tasting rooms, restaurants and shops. Thinking aesthetically, De Vega says the property’s jewel tones are a welcome vibe in a world of neutrals. She also says its amenities are thoughtful and offer a strong sense of place, including custom toiletries by a local maker, Pendleton robes and local coffee and tea.
Miami, Florida
Best for: Culture and beach energy
Miami is one of those cities where exploring on your own feels completely natural. Distinct neighborhoods each offer a different personality, making it easy for solo travelers to spend a day wandering from art-filled streets to sunny waterfront parks without ever running out of things to see.
Travel journalist and documentary filmmaker Michaela Guzy, who has visited more than 120 countries, says Miami has a way of drawing people in—even when they’re traveling alone. “The best places for solo travelers are the ones where curiosity is rewarded,” she says. “Miami absolutely fits that bill.”
She says to start with Wynwood Walls, where colorful murals turn entire city blocks into an open-air gallery. From there, head to Little Havana for a Cuban coffee and a stroll down Calle Ocho, where domino players gather in public plazas and the scent of fresh pastries drifts from neighborhood bakeries. For a quieter afternoon, the Pérez Art Museum Miami offers contemporary art and sweeping views of Biscayne Bay.
Where to stay: Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Located directly on the sand in South Beach, this lively oceanfront resort offers easy access to the Miami Beach boardwalk, restaurants and nightlife. Multiple dining options (Rao’s is a must-do for dinner), a large pool deck and comfortable lounges make it easy for solo travelers to relax—or strike up conversations with fellow guests.
Solvang, California
Best for: Slow travel and quirky charm
Nestled in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang offers a unique Danish-inspired setting that feels worlds away from the state’s busier wine regions.
Travel writer Matt Kirouac-York says he discovered the town on a solo trip and quickly fell in love with its relaxed pace. “The vibe is comfortably slow-paced, and it’s easy for solo diners to snag a barstool and feel comfortable in its restaurants,” he says. His favorite solo-friendly bars include Final Girl Wines, a gothic tasting room inspired by the owners’ love of classic horror films and heroines, and High Roller Tiki, a cove-like tiki bar that makes wine-based tiki cocktails.
Visitors can explore windmill-dotted streets, sample traditional Danish pastries like æbleskivers or visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. The surrounding valley also offers easy access to wineries and scenic countryside drives.
Where to stay: The Landsby. This Scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel sits right in the center of Solvang’s walkable downtown and features cozy rooms and an excellent on-site restaurant. “I’ve stayed at The Landsby twice now, and I adore it,” says Kirouac-York. “It has lots of Scandinavian hygge vibes, right down to the cream-toned color palette and fluffy animal artwork. There’s also a great restaurant on-site, Mad & Vin.”
Denver, Colorado
Best for: Urban adventure with mountain access
Denver offers the rare combination of a lively city scene and easy access to the Rocky Mountains, making it ideal for solo travelers who want both culture and outdoor adventure.
Travel writer Lauren Durie says the city’s social atmosphere makes it easy to connect with people while exploring. “Denver is the kind of place where you can wake up with no plan, end up on a mountain adventure by noon and finish the day at Red Rocks with people you met six hours earlier,” she says. “The vibe is young, active and welcoming, and it’s not uncommon to find your next hiking or concert buddy simply by striking up a conversation on a LoDo or RiNo patio (guilty).”
Spend time exploring the colorful murals and breweries of the RiNo Arts District, then venture into the mountains for hiking or scenic drives. In the evening, catch a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, one of the most spectacular concert venues in the world.
Where to stay: The Ramble Hotel. Located in the RiNo Arts District, this stylish boutique hotel is surrounded by galleries, breweries and restaurants. “The iconic cocktail bar, Death & Co, makes it easy for solo travelers to grab a drink, mingle or start the night before heading out to explore,” says Durie. “It’s within easy walking distance of major attractions like Union Station and Coors Field, and you can rideshare just about anywhere else.”
Why trust us
Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this story on the best places to travel solo in the U.S., Jill Schildhouse tapped her experience as a longtime travel journalist and avid traveler. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing, and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
- Dora Liu, travel advisor with Ahu Adventure Travel; interviewed, March 2026
- Melissa Curtin, travel writer and Fora travel advisor; interviewed, March 2026
- Diego De Luca, travel specialist working with Rome2Rio; interviewed, March 2026
- Nori De Vega, Portland-based travel and food creator; interviewed, March 2026
- Michaela Guzy, travel journalist and documentary filmmaker; interviewed, March 2026
- Alexandra Dubakova, travel expert with FreeTour; interviewed, March 2026
- Aly Walansky, travel and food writer; interviewed, March 2026
- Mikkel Woodruff, travel creator at Sometime Sailing; interviewed, March 2026
- Matt Kirouac-York, co-founder of The Gay Lane; interviewed, March 2026
- Lauren Durie, travel writer and founder of The Down Lo; interviewed, March 2026
- Hilton: “Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report”
- GeoSure: “Hyper-Local Safety Intelligence”
- Get Your Guide: “Take a History Tour with an actual Historian – Cooper!”
The post 13 Solo Travel Destinations in the U.S. for the Perfect Trip That’s All About You appeared first on Reader's Digest.
from Reader's Digest https://ift.tt/jYpSvVu
Comments
Post a Comment