Discover Top 10 Best Places for Solo Female Travelers in USA

solo female travelers

Best Trips for Solo Female Travelers in USA

Traveling alone may be a tremendously enlightening and life-changing experience that gives people the flexibility to choose their path, explore new cultures, and establish a deep connection with themselves. Solo travel provides chances for personal development, self-discovery, and empowerment, especially for female travelers.

As the trends show, women are traveling alone more often these days, taking the time to see the world at their own pace. While accessibility and safety are important factors to take into account when choosing a destination, many options in the US can satisfy the needs and interests of solo female travelers. As most of us already know, the US offers countless places to satisfy every traveler’s desire; from energetic cities full of cultural attractions to tranquil natural settings just waiting to be discovered.

New York City: The Urban Wonderland

Traveling alone and wanting to experience the rush and bustle of city life? New York City, also known as “The Big Apple,” is a great destination for you. It is a beacon of opportunity, diversity, and culture that offers a wealth of famous landmarks and cultural attractions just waiting to be discovered.  From the sparkling lights of Times Square to the legendary Statue of Liberty standing tall in the harbor, travelers who are by themselves can get lost (in a good way) in Manhattan’s winding streets.  By taking the time to explore solo, travelers can take in unique shops, try international cuisine, and enjoy the vibes and the energy that permeates the city that never sleeps.

San Francisco: The City by the Bay

San Francisco, tucked away along California’s picturesque coast, entices solo female travelers with its breathtaking scenery, extensive history, and free-spirited vibe. The city’s well-known landmarks, such as Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge, stand as timeless reminders of its fascinating history and allure.

Travelers on their own can discover the city’s various neighborhoods, each with a distinct blend of charm and culture, from the vibrant murals of the Mission District to the busy streets of Chinatown. For female travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility, San Francisco offers an amazing solo adventure with its world-class cuisine, thriving arts scene, and mild year-round climate.

Miami: Beach and Good VibesMiami - Beach

Miami appeals to single women looking for excitement and relaxation because of its dynamic atmosphere, sun-kissed beaches, and diverse cultural scene. South Beach, the city’s most famous location, bustles with activity and is lined with colorful Art Deco buildings. It’s the ideal place to soak up the sun and enjoy water sports like swimming and paddleboarding, or even find the more exclusive nude beaches in Florida to soak up the sun.

To do so even more effectively, you can always look for comfy cheap apartments in Miami and spend some time acting like a local. Beyond the beaches, Miami offers a wide range of cultural attractions, from top-notch galleries and museums to energetic neighborhoods like Little Havana, which is an area where guests can fully immerse themselves in the music, art, and cuisine of Cuba.

Solo travelers can also take advantage of the vibrant nightlife of the city by sampling cocktails at stylish rooftop bars, dancing the night away at hip clubs, or taking in live music performances at small venues throughout the city.

Portland: Where Creativity Meets Nature

For independent female travelers who enjoy exploration and adventure, Portland, Oregon, is a great destination because of its vibrant food scene, quirky charm, and breathtaking natural beauty. The city’s numerous galleries, theaters, and street art areas are all testaments to its thriving arts scene, which is supported by a community of imaginative and creative thinkers.

Foodies can treat their palates to a wide variety of culinary treats, ranging from farm-to-table restaurants that showcase the bounty of the Pacific Northwest to gourmet food carts serving up international cuisine.

For solo female travelers looking to experience the splendor of the outdoors fully, Portland provides the ideal balance of urban excitement and natural wonders thanks to its proximity to outdoor playgrounds such as the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood.

Austin: The Live Music Capital of the World

Solo female travelers seeking inspiration and adventure will find Austin, Texas, to be an irresistible destination. The city holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers and free spirits alike. Its thriving music scene, highlighted by live performances at legendary locations like the Broken Spoke and the Continental Club, is evidence of its creative spirit and rich cultural legacy.

Foodies will love the city’s diverse food offerings, which range from delicious barbecue restaurants to hip food trucks offering creative fusion fare. Austin promises a remarkable solo experience for female travelers willing to fully experience Texas’s heart and soul, with its friendly hospitality, a wide range of cultural offerings, and annual festivals honoring everything from music to film to cuisine.

Austin: The Live Music Capital of the World - best places for solo female travelers
Credit: Christin Hume

Charleston: Southern Charm and Hospitality

The next city on our list of best places for solo female travelers is Charleston.  Solo travelers from far and wide are drawn to Charleston, South Carolina, because of its timeless elegance and charm, which is infused with Southern hospitality and history, and ooooh-weee, the home-cooking!

The city’s antebellum mansions and centuries-old oak trees line its cobblestone streets, providing a window into its rich cultural legacy and illustrious past. History lovers and students should visit the city’s many historic buildings and landmarks, such as the famous Battery promenade that overlooks Charleston Harbor and the historic market that is teaming with merchants and artists.

Foodies can enjoy the city’s well-known southern home-cooked meals, including dishes like she-crab soup and shrimp and grits, sausage biscuits and gravy, at well-regarded eateries spread out across the city. You can’t go wrong with Charleston, as it welcomes solitary visitors to experience the finest of Southern charm and hospitality thanks to its pleasant weather, hospitable residents, and relaxed atmosphere.

Seattle: Where Urban Adventure Meets Natural Beauty

Tucked away between the glistening Puget Sound and the towering Cascade Mountains, Seattle provides solo female travelers with the ideal balance of outdoor exploration and urban energy.

The Space Needle and Pike Place Market, two of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, act as entrances to its lively culture and unique charm. Foodies can discover the city’s vibrant culinary scene by dining at international restaurants all over the city, enjoying artisanal coffee at quaint cafes, and sampling fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Seattle presents a plethora of thrilling experiences. Take a scenic ferry trip to explore the idyllic islands dotting the coastline, paddle through the tranquil waters of Puget Sound on a kayak excursion, or embark on breathtaking hikes in nearby national parks.

Sedona: Serenity in the Red Rocks

In breathtaking red rock formations and stunning desert landscapes, Sedona, Arizona, offers a serene getaway for frequent solo female travelers seeking peace and spiritual renewal. Ladies who are seeking spiritual enlightenment and rejuvenation are drawn to the city’s well-known vortex sites, which are thought to emit potent energy beneficial for healing and meditation, in an area surrounded by stunning backdrops.

Hiking trails around the city offer breathtaking views and towering rock formations for outdoor enthusiasts to marvel at, and as the day continues, the spa services are ready for the taking. Indulge in spa services and holistic therapies at opulent resorts and wellness centers tucked away amid the area’s breathtaking natural splendor. Sedona’s breathtaking scenery, serene ambiance, and deep sense of tranquility make it the ideal trip for solitary exploration and introspection.

New Orleans: The Soulful Heart of the South

New Orleans, a city renowned for its lively music, extensive history, and delectable cuisine, entices solo female tourists with its alluring charm and contagious energy. The city’s famous French Quarter, with its brightly colored buildings and bustling streets, is the hub of its exciting nightlife and culture, and if you get lucky, you may even find a ghost or two on your tours.

New Orleans: The Soulful Heart of the South
Credit: Zohre Nemati

Enthusiasts of music can fully engage with the city’s illustrious jazz scene by attending live shows at recognizable locations like Tipitina’s and Preservation Hall. Or make it down to Bourbon Street for non-stop daily action that can make almost anyone blush.

While in this beautiful, fun city, foodies can also enjoy the city’s well-known Cajun and Creole cuisine.  I highly recommend that you try out specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets at both casual dining spots and upscale restaurants. For those wanting a little more adventure, you’re always welcome to try a little gator (they tell me it tastes like chicken).

For solo female travelers eager to experience the soulful spirit of the South, New Orleans offers an unforgettable solo adventure with its vibrant festivals, lively street performances, and friendly hospitality.

Santa Fe: Where Art and Culture Thrive

Tucked away in the lower elevations of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico, Santa Fe is a refuge for solo female travelers seeking artistic inspiration, cultural stimulation, and unspoiled landscapes. The city’s many galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the historic Plaza, are testaments to its rich history and thriving arts scene.

Here, you will also find awe-inspiring Pueblo-style designs and vivid colors adorn the city’s unique adobe buildings, which are a sight for architecture enthusiasts.

As there is always something for everyone, there are a ton of nearby eateries and cafes where food enthusiasts can indulge in delicacies like posole and green chile stew to experience the flavors of Southwestern cuisine.

Last but not least, solo adventurers who enjoy the great outdoors can hike through untamed canyons, see prehistoric petroglyphs, and explore the region’s breathtaking desert scenery.  So if that’s not enough to convince you to visit Santa Fe, I’m not sure what will.

Wrap Up

Traveling alone in the USA presents a multitude of opportunities for solo female travelers to engage in self-discovery, adventure, and cultural immersion. The varied locations featured in this article appeal to every taste and interest, from energetic urban centers brimming with history and culture to tranquil natural landscapes brimming with beauty and tranquility.

Solo female travelers can go on journeys of self-discovery and exploration to create lifelong memories and connections, whether they are exploring the busy streets of New York City, dining in New Orleans, or seeking serenity in Sedona.  So ladies, grab your backpacks and confidently explore the USA, finding hidden gems and making treasured memories along the way.  Grab your courage, curiosity, and adventurous spirit, and start your adventure today! And as always, Travel Till You Drop!

Book Your Trip : Check Out My Resources for Your Travel Needs

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.  This is my very first stop when I’m looking for my next trip. It’s a fast, easy-to-use search engine that is perfect for finding an affordable flight, a perfect hotel, and the right rental car for you in locations around the globe.

Book Your Accommodation

If you are looking for a super budget friendly location and are open to a hostel stay, make sure you book your hostel with Hostelworld. It offers the broadest range of quality hostels around the world. 

If you’d prefer a hotel or a guesthouse for stays less than 28 days, drop on over to Booking.com It’s perfect for providing excellent options, a ton of user reviews, and prices to fit every budget.

For stays over 28 days, AirBnB still remains my #1 choice. User reviews and monthly pricing allow for some incredible deals all around the world.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is but a small up-front investment that you won’t want to leave home without. After just one experience of having to delay or cancel your trip or having your luggage stolen, you’ll wish you would have made that investment.  I’ve hated my life a few times when the moment arose, and I decided to skip out.  Let’s just say, I’ve changed my ways and recommend each of the following companies to protect your ass-ets.

My favorite companies are:         

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Ready to Book Your Trip?

Check out my Resource Page for the best companies to help you book your travel at reduced rates!  This list will help you get to where you’re going.  I know-I use them ALL the time!  

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About Jill

Hi, Jill Here

Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.

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