10 Best US Destinations For Solo Female Travelers

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is: “I want to solo travel. Where should I go?” While I’m a firm believer that anywhere can be done as a solo female traveler, some places are simply better than others, whether it’s that they are used to seeing women alone (big cities), have really friendly people that make being alone less daunting (small towns), or are just unbelievably beautiful. Either way, don’t wait for others to take a solo trip, and head to one of these US destinations for a guaranteed good time, party-of-one.

1. Frisco, Texas

If you’re a Parks and Recreation fan, and have wondered if there’s some type of replica out there of Pawnee, Indiana, I’m here to let you know there is: Frisco, Texas. I spent about three days in Frisco, Texas, wondering if it would be too long, and I enjoyed my time so much there that I was tempted to cancel my flight back to NYC so I could extend my stay. Frisco is not only extremely safe (so much so that it was actually voted safest city in the USA for two consecutive years by Smart Asset), but it is full of good eats, locally owned boutiques, clean parks, quirky museums and even one of Oprah’s favorite cookies at Cookie Society. Everything about Frisco was so charming, the people were friendly, funny, and helpful, and as a solo traveler, I never felt uncomfortable sitting alone at a restaurant, walking around the Third Rail District by myself, or really, at all, in general! Frisco is my top choice in the USA for a solo female getaway, and I personally cannot wait to return to this progressive and pristine city.

• Where To Eat: For one of the best meals in the city, head to Eight 11 Place (and get the bubbly flight, the Texas-heat style meaty pizza, and s’mores board!). For the best BBQ ever, go to Hutchin’s BBQ.
• Where To Stay: Hyatt Regency Frisco-Dallas (it’s connected to a mall, and the rooms have one of the most comfortable beds I’ve EVER stayed in)

• Fashion-Tip: Texas is hot, so wear a colorful, flowy dress.

2. Orlando, Florida

Orlando is stereotyped as being a family-friendly destination, which it absolutely is, but for women looking to head somewhere alone that is tropical and luxurious, head to Orlando. Orlando is obviously safe, otherwise, it would not consistently be the number 1 destination in the USA for families. While Disney World is an obvious attraction, if you’re looking to see another side of Orlando, I highly encourage you to treat yourself, and stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World. I was fortunate enough to spend a few nights there in February 2023 (where I was able to skip out on one the coldest weekends NYC saw that year), and it officially changed the way I travel. I used to stay in hostels, sharing rooms with several strangers just to save some money so I could travel more. Now? I will always stay in five-star properties if I’m able to, and I can thank that experience to Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World. I highly encourage you to do the same; treat yourself to a sunny Floridian getaway, and live luxuriously as you celebrate no one else but you.

• Where To Eat: Enjoy a Michelin-Star meal at the rooftop restaurant of Four Seasons Orlando, Capa.
• Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World (it will forever change the way you travel)

• Fashion-Tip: Orlando is hot year-round. Wear something floral for a pop of color against the tree-lined walkways at Four Seasons, and of course, bring several swimsuits.

3. Lake Placid, New York

For those looking to get some good shots for the ‘gram, head to one of the most Instagrammable places in the country: Lake Placid in Upstate New York. Lake Placid is stunning year-round, whether it’s with the snow-capped mountains in the winter (paired with serious Christmas charm), the blooming flowers in the spring, the sweet sunshine in the summer, or, of course, that famous fall foliage. I LOVE Lake Placid and the serenity that comes with a visit there. I highly recommend visiting a spa, as this small Upstate New York town has some of the best spas in the state. There are tons of activities to partake in at Lake Placid, whether it’s the Tobbogan Chute in the winter, riding a boat on the lake in the summer, or visiting the historic Olympics Museum (because, yes, in 1980, Lake Placid hosted the Winter Olympics). No matter what, if your’e looking for a serene getaway, where you might not even have cell service, head to Lake Placid.

• Where To Eat: The only AAA Four Diamond Certified Restaurant in Lake Placid is at The View, so treat yourself to one of the best spots in town (but make a reservation!).
• Where To Stay: Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa (and don’t skip the spa)
• Fashion-Tip: Buy that epic snowsuit I’m wearing here.

• Pro-Tip: Don’t forget a tripod to get those Instagrammable spots. Tripods are great for solo travelers and I NEVER travel without mine.

4. Boulder, Colorado

For a true picturesque mountain escape, head to Boulder, Colorado. I went to Boulder on a road trip with my dog in 2021, so while I technically did not go *alone* since I was accompanied with my fur child, I very quickly fell in love with this charming city. Downtown Boulder is full of great restaurants, shops, bars, and more, and is great for just walking around and wandering aimlessly. Boulder is extremely safe, and with the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, solo travelers will constantly get views that look like they’re straight from a postcard. Boulder is great for those outdoorsy travelers, with over 200 scenic hiking trails.

• Where To Eat: The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (one of the best meals I had). For Mexican fare and oversized margaritas, Tierra y Fuego Taqueria.
• Where To Stay: Foot of the Mountain Motel (and get your own log cabin!)

• Fashion-Tip: Boulder can be chilly from late September all the way through April, so winter coats aside, bring a colorful windbreaker to always have on deck.

5. New York City

I take it personally when people assume New York City is unsafe. Statistically speaking, NYC doesn’t look so good on paper, but after having lived here for the majority of my adult-life, I can say New York City is perfectly safe, with a few extra precautions. The biggest issues in New York for solo female travelers are excessive catcalling, and the unpredictability of some seedy characters here and there. However, what I love about New York is that New Yorkers might get a bad rep for not being friendly, but if they see someone in danger, they will ALWAYS jump in to help. If you want to take a solo trip to one of the greatest cities not only in the US, but in the world, come to New York.

• Where To Eat: Don Antonio for pizza, Papaya Dog for a late-night snack, Gotsuke for Japanese, Planta Queen for Vegan, Gottino Enoteca e Salumeria for wine, Veselka for Ukrainian food, Pebble Bar for cocktails, and the list goes on.
• Where To Stay: For a hotel in the middle of the hustle and bustle at a great price without any sacrifice in quality, stay at Henn Na Hotel. For a hotel away slightly removed from Manhattan chaos with a slice of luxury, Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown. For a hotel in a borough, head to The Williamsburg Hotel or Hotel Le Jolie.

• Fashion-Tip: New Yorkers love their black, so grab a pair of leather pants, a leather jacket, or a chic black bodysuit to rock a night out in the Big Apple.

6. Sedona, Arizona

For those who want to be at one with nature, and want to see one of the most naturally stunning phenomenons in the USA, head to Sedona, Arizona. Sedona looks like what I imagine Mars looks like; the dramatic red rocky landscapes make for incredible photos, scenic hikes, and great views when wining and dining at one of the many fantastic restaurants in town. Don’t miss out on Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, filled with unique shops and places to grab a quick bite on the go, and check out a local winery, because, yes, Sedona is actually a great wine destination. Sedona is for those who want to get in touch with their outdoorsy side while still having the comforts of a city.

• Where To Eat: Don’t miss out on wine, and book a wine tour of Sedona to get the best of the best. For a meal with a view, head to Mesa Grill Sedona.
• Where To Stay: For a hotel removed from town, stay at Sky Ranch Lodge. For the best hotel in town, stay at Enchantment Resort.

• Fashion-Tip: Despite being in the dessert, Sedona can actually get quite cold, depending on the time of year visited. If visiting in November to March, bring a jacket, and if traveling from April to October, wear a trendy hiking outfit.

7. Alamogordo, New Mexico

Keeping the conversation in the American Southwest brings me to my next recommended safe solo female destination: Alamogordo, New Mexico. While Alamogordo is best known for White Sands National Park, which, that alone is enough of a reason to visit, there’s so much more this charming town offers. That New Mexican feel is apparent in Alamogordo, with Mexican manta fabric being found in many hotels throughout, and green chiles being an unavoidable addition to every dish. There are also tons of antique shops nearby, where I even purchased a bicycle wine rack for my apartment in New York. The best part of Alamogordo, in my opinion, is the pistachio farms and wineries. Move over Sicily; New Mexico makes a mean pistachio and some seriously tasty wine. Who knew?

• Where To Eat: A visit to Y’alls Steakhouse is necessary when in Alamogordo. Don’t miss out on Heart of the Desert Winery from wine, pistachios, and other snacks.
• Where To Stay: For a budget-friendly option, stay at The Classic Desert Aire Hotel (with great breakfast offerings).

• Fashion-Tip: Alamogordo is HOT. Dress appropriately and wear a bright color to pop out in photos against the white sands of White Sands National Park.

8. Portland, Maine

For those looking for that classic seaside charm, head to the super-safe city of Portland, Maine. It goes without saying that you’ll eat some of the best seafood of your life (lobster rolls, oysters, fried fish sandwiches, fresh shrimp cocktail; you name it, you’ll find it in Portland), and if you’re lucky, you might catch a sighting of a whale or two when on a whale-watching tour (though, be warned: I went on one that had some pretty intense waves, causing seasickness for many on board, and we didn’t see any whales!). Portland has many beaches, and even though it can get chilly, it’s still worth checking some out. Of course, no trip to Portland is complete without a drive up to the picturesque view of the Portland Head Light.

• Where To Eat: Eating lobster rolls is required, so try them at both Luke’s Lobster and The Highroller Lobster Co. For a seafood feast, head to Bob’s Clam Hut. J’s Oyster on the Portland Pier is great for everyone’s favorite aphrodisiac snack.
• Where To Stay: Cambria Hotel Downtown Old Port for location, and The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection for location and vibes.

• Fashion-Tip: Portland is a seaside town, so make sure to bring your sailor-inspired outfits with pops of white and navy blue.

9. Nashville, Tennessee

Calling all music lovers! Nashville is a great city to explore as a solo female traveler, especially for those who are interested in good food and live music. Nashville is one of my favorite US cities, and one of the only other US destinations I would consider living in other than New York City. I have been three times and am currently planning a fourth visit; that’s how much I love it here! Nashville has some of the USA’s best museums, like the Parthenon, an exact replica of the real deal in Greece, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s also home to one of my favorite dishes on planet earth: Nashville Hot Chicken. Though you can grab this famous dish anywhere in the city, the original comes from Prince’s Hot Chicken South, and one of the most famous is from Hattie B’s.

• Where To Eat: As mentioned above, Prince’s Hot Chicken and Hattie B’s are both requirements. If you’re craving something veggie-focused, head to Phat Bites.
• Where To Stay: The last time I visited, I stayed at Hayes Street Hotel Nashville which I loved!

• Fashion-Tip: Get your Southern charm on, and wear a cute southern belle-inspired dress paired with some cowboy boot earrings.

10. Honolulu, Hawaii

Last, but certainly not least, is where I actually took my first solo trip. Yes, that’s right; before I jaunted to other ends of the earth alone, I took my first solo trip right here in the USA to Honolulu, Hawaii. There is really nowhere in this world like the natural beauty of Hawaii. Honolulu is such a great city, and it is notoriously safe. So much so, that I actually hitch-hiked from Diamond Head back to downtown Waikiki. I would go out at night and feel absolutely no fear whatsoever. I even ended up at a dive bar one night and stayed way past my welcome with some locals (one woman had a dog, and asked me to watch her dog while she ran next door to buy cigarettes!). The island life is truly unlike anything else, and while I do recommend renting a car instead of hitch-hiking, just know that Hawaii is so safe that if you do have to get in a car with a stranger, odds are, you’ll be fine.

• Where To Eat: For brunch, The Pig & The Lady. For a Hawaiian Lunch Plate, Rainbow Drive-In. For poke, Aloha Poke Co. You really can’t go wrong; the food in Honolulu is top-notch!
• Where To Stay: Hawaii is not a budget-friendly destination, so if you are trying to cut costs where you can, a good budget-option is Coconut Waikiki Hotel. If you’re there for the luxury, head to Halekulani.

• Fashion-Tip: Hawaii is hot year-round. Wear all of the florals and bright colors your heart desires, and don’t skip out on packing swimsuits and sunglasses.

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