Calling All Women Who Travel Solo—Add These US Destinations to Your Bucket List

Here's where to carve out the type of me time you can't get at home.There’s something wonderfully freeing about traveling alone as a woman. You get to make every decision—where to stay, what to order, whether to spend the afternoon in a museum or outside, and when to call it a night—and there’s a particular pleasure in discovering a place at your own pace. The best destinations for solo women travelers make that freedom feel easy, too: welcoming enough to settle in, interesting enough to keep you curious, and full of reasons to leave the hotel and see what happens.Across the US, that might mean wandering Savannah’s moss-draped squares, pedaling along Nantucket’s bike lanes, lingering over Palm Springs’s colorful midcentury architecture, or heading to mountain towns in Wyoming or Montana. It could be a long weekend of galleries and good food in Kingston, a guided hike through Joshua Tree, or a cocktail at the bar in Carlsbad. The appeal is really as varied as us girls.If you're looking for a little inspiration to get out and go, our Condé Nast Traveler editors and trusted contributors have shared destinations below that deliver on both the fun and the practicalities of hitting the road solo, adding ideas for where to stay, eat, and explore along the way. Consider this your excuse to book the room for one, order exactly what you want, and go somewhere simply because you want to see it.Read on for the places we recommend most for women to travel solo in the US, in alphabetical order.Big Sky, MontanaBoston, MassachusettsCarlsbad, CaliforniaCody, WyomingJohns Island, South CarolinaKey West, FloridaKingston, New YorkLitchfield, ConnecticutMiami, FloridaNantucket, MassachusettsPalm Springs, CaliforniaNashville, TennesseeNorth Fork, New YorkSavannah, GeorgiaBig Sky, Montana Jessica ChapelBig Sky, Montana Jessica ChapelBig Sky, MontanaI became a little infatuated with solo travel after heading to Big Sky, Montana, on my own for Cowgirl Up Week, an annual gathering at the iconic Lone Mountain Ranch. The celebration takes place each September at the tail end of the summer season and draws women from around the world itching for a taste of the quintessential American West. Our days were filled with horseback rides led by head wranglers, a guided trip to Yellowstone, an end-of-season rodeo, and lessons in everything from trotting to communicating with your horse. What stuck with me most was how many women had come alone—some finally making a bucket-list trip happen, others simply giving the dude ranch life a shot. You could ride off on your own or join a group, so making friends with the other gals was remarkably easy. My group even has a group chat called “Cowgirls Forever,” filled with new mothers, local ranch-owning women, and travelers from Florida to Connecticut. More and more dude ranches are creating women-focused weeks and general programming, so it's easier than ever to saddle up solo in this New Age, women-led, John Wayne world. —J.C.Where to stay in Big Sky:Best for a stay right on the ranch for Cowgirl Up Week: Lone Mountain RanchBest for a convenient base for treating yourself: Montage Big SkyBest for a more affordable base right in town: The Lodge at Big SkyBoston, Massachusetts Richard T. Nowitz/Getty ImagesBoston, MassachusettsI went to Boston two falls ago to visit a friend, and it was one of the most comfortable solo travel experiences I’ve had. I loved that I could reach most areas of interest in Cambridge and Charlestown on foot, and it’s sure hard to beat a crisp autumn in New England, especially in a city with such deep-set roots. I stayed at a houseboat Airbnb docked in the Charlestown marina, which was as serene as it was unique. It was fantastic being able to spend long nights on the deck, looking out to Boston city proper after spending the days romping through town. While this isn’t the part of the country that usually takes the cake for hospitality, I found that everyone local was incredibly friendly, helpful, and eager to share recommendations on where to head next. If you think you’re tired of hearing AI-this, new buzzy techword-that, still pay a visit to the MIT Museum, where the cutting edge feels hands-on, interactive, and actually exciting. —Kat ChenWhere to stay in Boston:Best for an iconic houseboat rental: A spacious yacht AirbnbBest for a music-inspired hotel: The Verb HotelBest for a five-star waterfront hotel: Boston Harbor HotelCarlsbad, California Marcel FuentesCarlsbad, CaliforniaOften overshadowed by its flashier southern neighbor San Diego, Carlsbad has a more laid-back, surfy charm perfect for solo female travelers. I stayed at Beach Terrace, a family-owned hotel built directly on the sand about 50 feet from the water, when I visited. Sunday morning started with oceanfront yoga, where I connected with fellow travelers before exploring on foot (no car needed). Carlsbad Village is incredibly walkable and safe, even at night, with everything from antique shops to boutique clothing stores and Michelin-starred dining within reach. I joined a Carlsbad Food Tour to sample the town’s best eateries—such as the Strawberry Shack and Señor Grubby's—with a small, friendly group. For a solo dinner that doesn’t feel lonely, grab a seat at the bar at Campfire, where wood-fired dishes and communal energy make it easy to strike up a conversation with locals. —Kaila Yu, contributorWhere to stay in Carlsbad:Best for surf charm: Beach TerraceBest for proximity to Carlsbad State Beach: The Green RoomBest for affordability but great service: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and SpaCody, Wyoming Charley WardCody, Wyoming Charley WardCody, WyomingOne of my favorite trips was a solo journey deep into Wyoming for a week on a ranch. Having traveled all the way from London, I took a couple of days to relax beforehand in Cody—the town I flew into—before continuing onward. Founded by none other than Buffalo Bill, this small town proved to be the sweetest spot for a few days of travel all alone. Everything worth visiting is within comfortable walking distance, with most restaurants, shops, and attractions no more than a 10-minute stroll away—a welcome relief if you feel hesitant about relying on rideshares in unfamiliar places.There is a fantastic range of museums—head to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which is so vast that entry tickets are valid for two consecutive days. I loved the historical Old Town Trail, which was altogether too absorbing for me to ever feel lonely. I frequently struck up conversations with locals in restaurants, so dining solo also never felt awkward. In truth? I hardly felt alone at all. Another highlight is Cody’s proximity to Yellowstone: I booked an excursion with CoveredGround Adventures, who picked me up directly from my hotel and had us deep among the pines within a 40-minute drive. By the time we returned that evening, my guide, a Cody local, and I had gotten on so well that she offered to drive me around the next day if I needed a ride anywhere. With welcoming faces, stunning landscapes, cowboys, and some of the finest cinnamon buns I have ever tasted (courtesy of Cody Coffee Bar), I would repeat the experience on my own in a heartbeat. —Charley WardWhere to stay in Cody:Best for a historical hotel: Buffalo Bill's Irma HotelBest for a charming small town experience near Yellowstone: Chamberlin InnBest for a park-friendly, amenity-forward base: The CodyJohns Island, South Carolina GettyJohns Island, South CarolinaOn rugged Johns Island, 40 minutes outside of Charleston, Auberge’s debut of The Dunlin deftly centers the coastal charm of the South Carolina sea islands—the second most bioactive habitat in the world, after only the Amazon Rainforest. Aptly named for a ploving shore bird, the 72 cottage-style guest rooms and suites offer transformative wildlife immersion over the 2,000 acres, from dolphin and seabird safaris amid the towering piles of massive oysters that make up the meandering coastline (and will be fresh on your plate come dinner time), to an on-site farm and 20 miles of waterfront hiking trails to work up a sweat on before sinking into a bedroom soaking tub overlooking the marsh.Guests are chic Southerners (expect plenty of chatty Texans who will strike up a conversation at the stylish bar) and transplants here for the relaxing natural setting, spa treatments, and wine-paired food in between hikes and river cruises. The setting is intimate and the visitors friendly, from babymooning couples at the pool to girls trip groups in Lily Pulitzer shift dresses by the birdcage-themed bar. —Shannon McMahonWhere to stay on Johns Island:Best for a lush nature escape in solitude: The Dunlin, Auberge CollectionBest for a waterfront rental in the trees: Private elevated tree house AirbnbBest for a riverfront porch with coastal views: The Oystercatcher bungalow AirbnbKey West, Florida Peter UngerKey West, FloridaKey West is no stranger to group travel—walk down Duval St. at night, and you’ll encounter crowds of bachelorette parties, cruise-goers, and rowdy spring breakers. But the quirky Conch Republic is also home to a thriving artistic community that opens its arms to solo travelers without hesitation. Stop by Andy’s Cabana on open mic nights, the Key West Yoga Sanctuary for community classes or creative writing workshops, and Fort Zachary Beach to camp out under the palms. By doing just this, I have befriended fishing guides, van-lifers, painters, musicians, and writers who welcomed me into their creative circle. My favorite part about traveling solo is that it forces you to meet new people and try new things, and the Keys have long embodied the essence of this independence and freedom. Just don’t be surprised if you get invited out on a sailboat (or two) on your first day. —Hannah ToweyWhere to stay in Key West:Best for an oasis of calm: Pier House Resort and SpaBest for sunsets: Ocean Key Resort and SpaBest for those drawn to the historic side of Key West: Ella's CottagesKingston, New York halbergmanKingston, New YorkI recently took a solo trip to Kingston, New York, and it was exactly what I needed. Just a quick jet up north via Amtrak, the town is easy to explore on foot and has a calm, welcoming vibe. I started my day with breakfast at Hotel Kinsley—home to good coffee, a quiet atmosphere, and vintage records by each window. Then I spent time reading with a cappuccino at Rough Draft Bar and Books. From there, I wandered through Italian provisions at Salamone’s, picked up playful stickers at quirky bookstore Everywhere Shop, and browsed the home goods at Kingston Social. What stood out most was how safe and queer-friendly it felt. The rainbow crosswalk near the main street felt like a warm welcome, and every shop I visited felt easy to be in. —Laura Delarato, contributorWhere to stay in Kingston:Best for vintage vibes and fresh air: Hotel KinsleyBest for a tucked-away cabin retreat: Hutton BrickyardsBest for woodsy wellness nearby: Woodstock Way HotelLitchfield, Connecticut GettyLitchfield, Connecticut Arati MenonLitchfield, ConnecticutAnytime I mention Litchfield to my colleagues, there’s invariably one person giggling or rolling their eyes. Not because they don’t think it’s a deserving mention, but because of how much love I have for this tiny region in Connecticut’s northwest corner. First, a short geography lesson: While Litchfield is a town, it is also a county—but think of it as a daisy chain of little towns and villages. Base yourself in the main town for a long weekend and drive around for easy access, passing through bucolic landscapes along the way.This is the kind of place that feels especially rewarding solo: You can spend your days following your own curiosity—from architecture and antiques to nature walks—while still finding a sense of community along the way. I usually stay at Belden House and Mews (from the owners of the Hudson Valley estate hotel Troutbeck); go for drinks and dinner at The Abner, refashioned from the town’s old courthouse; get coffee and crumb cake at Krafted Brew Lab; shop at chic home-goods store Milton Market; take a pottery lesson with Charlie at Dumais Made; and browse Jeffrey Tillou’s inventory of 18th- and 19th-century furniture and fine arts.—Arati MenonWhere to stay in Litchfield:Best for good style and tasty bites: The AbnerBest for splendid wellness and design: Belden House and MewsBest for some peace and quiet: The Litchfield InnMiami, Florida Getty ImagesMiami, FloridaA little over a year ago, I flew from Denver to Miami for my January birthday, as I wanted to be somewhere warm, near the water, and full of vibrant food. I chose to stay at The Standard—it’s a solid hotel with easy-to-access water, plus it's removed enough from the hubbub of South Beach (but also just close enough, if that's what you're looking for). There are a handful of restaurants within a short walking distance, and even more restaurants a quick rideshare away, making it easy to move around at night alone as well. Pop over to Little Havana for exceptional Cuban food via a food tour (an opportunity to make new friends) or just by exploring on your own. The Brickell area has a cozy little wine bar called Niu Wine, and I can't recommend SuViche enough for casual, fresh Peruvian ceviche after a sunny walk or lazy beach day. —Amanda Villarosa, photographerWhere to stay in Miami:Best for a conveniently located and reliable hotel: The Standard SpaBest for splurging on a maximalist-designed oasis: Faena Hotel Miami BeachBest for an affordable stay in South Beach: Hotel GreystoneNantucket, Massachusetts Jess SulimaNantucket, Massachusetts Jess SulimaNantucket, MassachusettsLast October, I took a trip to Nantucket in the off-season to enjoy a “readaway”—that is, a vacation where the main objective was to get some fresh air and read my book. I stayed in this gorgeous loft above a bookstore, and felt so safe in the heart of town. I had a marvelous time visiting the Whaling Museum and counting how many lightship baskets I could find at antique shops—with not one single person rushing me along. Perhaps the highlight of my trip was the sunset hike I took along the Bluff Walk, where I peeked into quiet, gray-shingled cottages, spotted some seals, and marveled at the towering Sankaty Lighthouse. The scariest part of the trip was the plane ride over the Atlantic on a nine-passenger Cape Air propeller, but even then, I've never experienced a softer landing than with my two female pilots. —Jessica SulimaWhere to stay on Nantucket:Best for a true literary oasis: Traveler-recommended readaway rentalBest for one of the few year-round stays: The Nantucket Hotel and ResortBest for a central 20-room boutique: Greydon HouseNashville, Tennessee Jeremy PolandNashville, TennesseeThe Tennessee capital is a quintessential bachelorette town in every sense of the phrase, but works just as well for a solo trip. There’s no need to get glammed up unless you absolutely wish to: If you’re feeling lonely, your next best friends might be just a honky tonk dance floor away. And while the world’s your oyster here, that also includes kicking back and enjoying the city’s slower offerings, like a day filled with art at the Frist Art Museum, or balmy outdoor reading at Centennial Park. You can’t go wrong with a show at the Opry, which turned 100 last year, and where—famously—there is no such thing as a bad seat. Nashville is kitsch, it’s booming, and between the hot chicken and barbecue, you won’t miss out on heartwarming food. I grew up visiting every year when I was a kid, and I still feel a childlike sense of adventure when I visit now. Dare I say it may be even more fun all grown up. —K.C.Where to stay in Nashville:Best for a colorful and lively stay: The Graduate NashvilleBest for wow-factor: The RussellBest for easy access to the hubbub: Drift Hotel NashvilleNorth Fork, New York Megan SpurrellNorth Fork, New York Megan SpurrellNorth Fork, New YorkThere's something about a solo getaway that isn't far away, or wildly different from where you live, that purely exists to give you permission to carve out a type of me time you can't get at home. One of those places, for me, is the North Fork at the very end of Long Island. It's a waterfront getaway—within three hours of my apartment in Brooklyn—where the pace is slow, the towns are small, the beaches are quiet, my main mode of transportation is a bicycle (available at most hotels), and I can spend my days eating farm-to-table (or sea-to-table) with no sense of urgency.There are lovely places to stay, like the Silver Sands Motel or Hotel Moraine, and cheffy restaurants, like Nookie's and the North Fork Table and Inn, but you can also rent an Airbnb and grab your own seafood at Little Creek Oyster Farm and the Southold Fish Market. Every morning, I go for a run, end it with a swim in the sound, then plan my days around reading between meal times—all to rinse and repeat. I suggest taking two or three days off mid-week (my hack for a solo trip without the FOMO), and keeping a small cooler and oyster knife in your car for whenever you pass honor-system fresh seafood stalls on the side of the road (like Peconic Gold). —Megan SpurrellWhere to stay on the North Fork:Best for a foodie-forward stay: Silver Sands MotelBest for a chic farm stay in Southold: North Fork Table and InnBest for a splashy, seaside resort in Greenport: Hotel MorainePalm Springs, California Kurt Cyr/Palm Springs Mod Squad ToursPalm Springs, CaliforniaOn a solo trip to Palm Springs for a group design tour with Palm Springs Mod Squad, I experienced a showcase of several pristinely preserved architectural gems built in the prevailing Desert Modern style. I spent an afternoon indulging in the city’s incredible vintage shops along the strip before popping into Superbloom, an innovative paint studio, where a childlike sense of play emerged as I splattered paint on a new passport holder and luggage tag. For pampering, do as I did and make your way to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians's Spa at Séc-he and indulge in a hot stone massage with cold lavender-scented towels. Then sip on a phenomenal prickly pear lemonade before relaxing in the hot spring–fed thermal pool.Don't skip the designated Dark Sky Park that is Joshua Tree—knowing I’d eventually lose cell phone reception, I downloaded an offline map to navigate the park alone in the dark—an anxiety-inducing experience that felt like driving into an endless void, yet one I’d recommend to women looking to step out of their comfort zones and build confidence in an unforgiving desert landscape. My disappointment about not having enough time to see the Mojave Desert’s famous succulent in the daylight quickly dissipated during my stargazing tour with Joshua Tree Astronomy Adventures. Sharing a canopy of stars with just a few strangers, I contemplated the magnitude of the universe and felt humbled by my own existence. —Katherine Gallardo, contributorWhere to stay in Palm Springs:Best for a tucked-away boutique hotel: Villa RoyaleBest for a full-service hotel in the middle of town: Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs HotelBest for a design-forward, restorative oasis: Korakia PensioneSavannah, Georgia Peter Unger/Getty ImagesSavannah, GeorgiaI took a February trip to Savannah two winters ago—a long weekend based at Hotel Bardo—during which I planned to walk lazily through sunny parks, indulge in great food, and soak up the small city’s history. I traveled with my partner, but when a work thing came up on his end, I had a day to myself and found the city to be perfect for a party of one. At Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, an institution of a soul-food kitchen (they still have the chair Obama sat in when he visited on display), you’re seated around a big, family-style table with whoever else walks in when you do—ideal for a solo traveler looking for company. The gorgeous Common Thread, where fluke crudos and roasted sunchokes sit side by side, also has seats at the bar if you don’t have a reservation (bar seats are most often the perfect choice as a solo traveler).Because this was a city where I actually wanted to do a tour, I easily slid into a mixed group being guided through the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. It was a highlight of the trip: Home tours of opulent 1800s-built properties are popular in the city, and the team at Owens-Thomas does a particularly great job of acknowledging everyone who lived in the home, including the enslaved people who kept it running. It was yet another reminder of how much there is to learn in this city—and how it is evolving constantly. —M.S.Where to stay in Savannah:Best for the seasoned and curious traveler: Hotel BardoBest for a sweet and aesthetic stay: The Drayton HotelBest for a central boutique hotel: The DouglasThis article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.Why Everyone Will Be Going to Osaka in 2025Jessica Chapel is a Commerce Writer at Condé Nast Traveler, where she covers travel booking and retail content. Previous to this role, she was Traveler's Editorial Assistant and has been working with the brand for over three years. Her passions inspire her published works, where she writes of indulgent travel ... Read More