Solo Vacation Destinations in the United States
Solo vacation destinations in the United States offer the perfect opportunity to explore at your own pace, discover new passions, and enjoy a sense of independence. From peaceful retreats surrounded by nature to bustling cities filled with art and culture, there are countless places across the country that make traveling alone both safe and rewarding.
I’ve taken solo trips where I found tranquility in scenic landscapes, met new people in lively towns, and immersed myself in experiences that were uniquely my own. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, the U.S. is full of destinations that are ideal for traveling alone. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Woodsy walks and winding thoughts in the Poconos
I drove about 2 hours west from New York City into the Pocono Mountains, a 2,400-square-mile region that’s been drawing vacationers since the late 1800s.
The Poconos in Pennsylvania have always felt like one of the most underrated solo vacation destinations in the United States. Just a short drive from both New York City and Philadelphia, this mountain region is the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and unexpected magic. I loved how easy it was to escape the city noise and trade it for fresh mountain air and serene landscapes.
One of my favorite things about traveling solo in the Poconos was the freedom to design my own pace. I could hike to a hidden waterfall in Bushkill Falls in the morning, then spend the afternoon wandering through antique shops or sipping wine at a local vineyard. That mix of exciting exploration and quiet moments of reflection made it feel like a dream getaway.
What I really enjoyed was how affordable and accessible it all was. The region has everything from rustic cabins tucked into the woods to sleek wellness resorts with spas and yoga classes. I tried both, and each experience offered something unique and joyful. The variety made it easy to choose what fit my mood each day.
My absolute favorite memory was kayaking on Lake Wallenpaupack at sunrise. The water was calm, the mist hovered above the surface, and I felt a kind of peace that only solo travel can give. It reminded me that the Poconos are more than just a weekend escape—they’re a spectacular destination for anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves.
For me, the Poconos will always stand out as one of the best hidden gems for solo travelers looking for something vibrant, exciting, and truly special.
2. Easy sunshine and slower mornings in San Luis Obispo
I drove about 3.5 hours north from Los Angeles up Highway 101 to San Luis Obispo. We spent the night at the Madonna Inn.
San Luis Obispo, often called “SLO,” is one of my favorite solo vacation spots in California, and honestly, it feels like a hidden gem along the Central Coast. Nestled between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this small city is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and the sparkling Pacific, making it the perfect balance of nature and vibrant town life.
I loved wandering through the charming downtown with its cool boutiques, art galleries, and some of the best farm-to-table restaurants I’ve tried. It was so easy to spend an afternoon people-watching at an outdoor café or browsing the Saturday farmers’ market, which felt both lively and joyful.
One of the most exciting parts of traveling solo here was exploring the trails that wind through the hills. I hiked Bishop Peak, and the views over the valley and coastline were absolutely spectacular. The feeling of reaching the top on my own was empowering and made the trip even more meaningful.
I also discovered a more relaxing side of San Luis Obispo. Staying at a quirky inn, soaking in mineral hot springs, and taking a day trip to nearby Avila Beach gave me the coolest mix of experiences. It’s the kind of place where you can be adventurous one day and completely unwind the next.
For me, San Luis Obispo is one of the best underrated solo destinations in California. It’s affordable, unique, and full of magic—perfect for anyone dreaming of a weekend getaway that combines natural beauty, small-town charm, and coastal vibes.
3. Ferries, forests, and fresh perspectives on Bainbridge Island
I caught the 35-minute ferry from Seattle across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island.
Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle, has to be one of my favorite solo vacation destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
I loved how quickly I could leave the city behind and find myself surrounded by quiet harbors, evergreen forests, and a slower, more peaceful pace of life. That transition alone felt like magic.
Wandering through the downtown area of Winslow was such a joy. I browsed cozy bookstores, art galleries filled with local talent, and some of the coolest little cafés I’ve ever stumbled into. It felt vibrant yet laid-back, the kind of place where you can spend hours just soaking up the atmosphere without rushing.
One of the best parts of traveling solo here was discovering the trails. I hiked through lush forest paths and along the shoreline, where the views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains were absolutely spectacular. It was the perfect mix of nature and solitude, and I felt like I had discovered an underrated gem tucked away in plain sight.
I also took time to explore Bainbridge’s wineries and enjoyed a glass of local red while chatting with friendly winemakers. The island had this unusual but wonderful combination of rustic charm and creative energy that made me feel both inspired and completely at ease.
For me, Bainbridge Island is one of the absolute best weekend getaways for a solo traveler. It’s affordable, unique, and filled with experiences that range from exciting outdoor adventures to quiet, reflective moments by the water.
4. Ocean cliffs and solo sunrises on Block Island
I drove about an hour from Providence to the ferry in Point Judith, then sailed 30 minutes to Block Island (population 1,000 year-round). I spent the night at the National Hotel, a historic 1888 inn right on the waterfront.
Block Island, off the coast of Rhode Island, felt like one of the coolest solo vacation discoveries I’ve made in New England. Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, it instantly gave me that dreamlike feeling of being far away, even though it was so close. The island’s natural beauty and relaxed pace made it one of my favorite escapes.
I loved how the island balanced adventure and tranquility. One morning, I biked along rolling hills and winding coastal roads, stopping to take in ocean views that were absolutely spectacular. Later, I found myself on a quiet beach with hardly anyone else around, letting the sound of the waves set the rhythm of the afternoon.
My favorite hidden gem was the Mohegan Bluffs. Standing on top of those dramatic cliffs and looking down at the turquoise water was one of the most magical and unusual experiences I’ve ever had in New England. Climbing down the wooden staircase to reach the beach below felt like stepping into a secret world.
What made traveling solo here even better was how easy and affordable it was to enjoy. I stayed at a small inn near Old Harbor, walked to cafés and quirky shops, and ended the evenings with fresh seafood and a sunset that painted the sky vibrant shades of orange and pink.
For me, Block Island is an underrated gem and one of the best solo getaways in the Northeast. It’s unique, exciting, and filled with those unforgettable little moments that make a trip feel truly special.
5. History, harbor walks, and café calm in Boston
We flew about 4 hours from Austin into Boston, a city of 650,000 that still wears its colonial past proudly.
Boston has always felt like one of the absolute best solo travel destinations in the United States, and I loved how much history, culture, and energy I could soak up in just a few days. The city’s mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy gave me an unusual but really exciting travel experience.
I spent hours walking the Freedom Trail, and it was one of my favorite ways to see the city. Passing through cobblestone streets, historic churches, and iconic landmarks like Faneuil Hall and Paul Revere’s House felt like stepping into a living storybook. Traveling solo made it easy to linger wherever I wanted, and that freedom was pure magic.
Another highlight for me was wandering through neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay. The brick townhouses, gas lamps, and tree-lined streets created such a romantic and timeless atmosphere, even though I was traveling on my own. It was a hidden joy to just explore and snap photos without rushing.
Boston also won me over with its food scene. I grabbed clam chowder at Quincy Market, tried Italian classics in the North End, and ended my evenings in cool cafés or lively pubs. It was an affordable and delicious way to experience the city’s vibrant personality.
What made Boston one of my favorite solo destinations is how easy it was to get around, with so many attractions close together. For me, it’s a spectacular blend of history, culture, and fun—perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
6. Red rocks, mindfulness, and mountain air in Boulder
We flew about 2 hours from Austin into Denver, then drove 45 minutes northwest to Boulder. Founded in 1859 as a mining supply town, Boulder is now a hub for the University of Colorado and progressive mountain culture.
I strolled along Pearl Street Mall, where historic 19th-century buildings house bookstores, cafés, and street performers. I spent the night at the Hotel Boulderado, a Victorian landmark opened in 1909.
Boulder, Colorado, struck me as one of the coolest and most exciting solo destinations in the U.S., and it instantly became one of my favorite weekend getaways. Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains and just about 30 minutes from Denver, it felt like the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and vibrant small-city charm.
I loved starting my mornings with a hike in the Flatirons. The trails were both accessible and spectacular, with sweeping views of the mountains and city below. Being out there on my own felt empowering, and the crisp mountain air gave me that joyful sense of freedom only solo travel can bring.
What made Boulder even more special was its lively downtown. Pearl Street Mall was one of the best spots to wander—I found quirky shops, amazing farm-to-table restaurants, and street performers that brought so much vibrant energy. It was unusual to find such a laid-back yet dynamic vibe all in one place.
One of my favorite hidden gems was the local tea house, a colorful and unique spot where I could relax after exploring. I also tried a few of Boulder’s craft breweries, and sitting with a locally brewed pint while watching the sunset over the Rockies was pure magic.
For me, Boulder is one of the most underrated solo destinations in Colorado. It’s affordable, easy to navigate, and full of spectacular scenery, cool culture, and unforgettable moments. Every time I think about it, I can’t wait to plan another trip back.
Conclusion
Traveling solo has shown me that some of the best adventures happen when you give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether it’s the hidden charm of Bainbridge Island, the vibrant streets of Boston, the unusual cliffs of Block Island, or the spectacular trails of Boulder, each destination offers something unique and unforgettable.
I’ve realized that solo travel isn’t just about the places—it’s about the moments of joy, the magic of discovery, and the confidence you build along the way. From affordable getaways to underrated gems, every trip becomes a personal story worth remembering.
For me, the absolute best part is how these journeys feel both exciting and peaceful at the same time. Each city, island, or mountain town holds its own charm, waiting to be uncovered. And when you travel solo, those experiences feel even more meaningful, like they belong just to you.
If you’re dreaming of a weekend escape or a longer adventure, don’t be afraid to go it alone—these destinations prove that solo travel in the U.S. can be vibrant, affordable, and absolutely spectacular.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
