9 Best US Cities for Solo Female Travelers

Traveling with friends or families is fun. But, once in a while, traveling solo is an option with its own unique perks. It offers a whole ‘nother level of freedom and convenience.

No waiting around for others to get ready. No squabbling about the itinerary. No unnecessary drama that often comes with big group vacations. You can do what you (and only you) want to do.

For women, traveling solo for the first time can be a little worrisome, especially regarding safety. Here, we’ve picked the best travel destinations in the US that would be safe and convenient for a female solo traveler.

Regardless, it is always advisable to take precautions while traveling solo. No matter where you go, these general rules will increase your safety and allow you to travel alone comfortably.

General safety rules for solo travelers

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Always have an emergency contact ready 
• Avoid isolated areas at night
• Inform someone about your travel plans
• Use reliable transportation 
• Trust your instincts if something feels uncomfortable or unsafe
• Bring pepper spray if necessary

Have these precautions ready and you’ll be great on your way. And now, let’s roll out the list!

1. New York City

Perfect for culture, and anyone who loves the city life

As one of the busiest cities in the world, The Big Apple is a safe destination because everyone else simply just minds their own business. It also has a very comprehensive 24/7 transportation service and literally a million different things you can do no matter your interest.

Things to do solo: 

• Visit the legendary museums, from The Met and MoMA, to the Museum of Natural History from Night at the Museum
• Catch a play or musical on Broadway
• Try New York’s food joints: pizzas, hot dogs, cheesecakes, halal food, pastrami

2. Big Sur, California

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts

The jaw-dropping coastal view and warm Pacific ocean water beckon you to head down to Big Sur, California. The laidback atmosphere is perfect for solo travelers who just wanna chill in nature.

Things to do: 

• Visit McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
• Go camping
• Snorkel and go sightseeing for the dolphins and whales 
• Hike alongside the trails overlooking the ocean

3. Seattle, Washington

Perfect for coffee lovers, definitely!

The Emerald City is a sparkling destination offering both urban modernity and natural beauty. The city’s urban landscape offers some stunning architectural marvels, like the iconic Space Needle. You can also tour the Microsoft campus, where the software company is based. As the birthplace of world famous coffee chain Starbucks, the city has a robust coffee culture that any caffeine lover would enjoy.

Things to do: 

• Go up the Space Needle
• Pike Place Market 
• Explore the nearby islands on a ferry ride
• Visit the original Starbucks 

4. San Francisco, California

Perfect for people who enjoy exploring cultures

The Bay Area has always been a welcoming and fun city to explore. A melting pot of cultures all around the world and LGBTQ-friendly, bask in the warm hospitality as you explore its many landmarks.

Things to do: 

• Explore the city on a tram 
• Visit the famous Lombard Street
• Chomp down on seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf
• Take an Alcatraz Tour

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

Perfect for people who enjoy nightlife and entertainment

There’s a reason they say “what happens in Vegas, stay in Vegas”, it’s just the place to go all out wild. Vegas is a very lively city where you can party til dawn in all sorts of fancy joints. It’s a very open environment if you’re a solo traveler who enjoys making new friends. 

Things to do: 

• The casino, of course. If you gamble, do it responsibly.
• Watch the nightly concerts and shows
• See the Sphere
• Visit the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam 
• Enjoy the supersized buffets or dine at Michelin restaurants

6. Anchorage, Alaska

Perfect for laidback vacationers

If busy cities are not your thing, why not go someplace where you can just bask in the atmosphere? It doesn’t mean you have to be somewhere secluded, where safety can be an issue. From Anchorage, Alaska’s own Iceland, you can take many excellent cruise tours exploring various nature-adjacent activities the region offers. 

Things to do: 

• See glaciers
• Chase northern lights 
• Go dog-sledding
• Watch midnight sun

7. Honolulu, Hawaii

Perfect for nature lovers everywhere

Hawaii, with its abundance of beauty in both land and sea, is the most favorite holiday destination in the world. The locals are also really welcoming and friendly, perfect for solo travelers. Whether for its tropical beauty or rich heritage, Honolulu is a haven on Earth you need to visit at least once in your life, alone or otherwise.

Things to do: 

Soak up the sun at Waikiki Beach

Enjoy lunch at the Rainbow Drive-In

Trek through Manoa Falls 

Hike through Diamond Head

8. Chicago, Illinois

Perfect for those who relish great architecture  

If New York is too crowded for you, Chicago is another metropolitan city offering similar convenience and urban modernity but with more of that Midwestern hospitality. The Wind City offers spectacular architectural wonders that traverse different eras in American history. You’ve got everything from century-old buildings to ultramodern towers in Chicago.

Things to do: 

• Chill at Millenium Park
• See the famous Cloud Gate
• Hop on the Architecture River Cruise
• Try their delectable deep-dish pizza

9. Boston, Massachusetts

Perfect and super safe for travelers of all ages

Boston consistently ranks high in safety for tourists, with well-lit streets and a strong sense of community. Safe and walkable, Boston offers a friendly atmosphere for solo female travelers. With world-class museums and many popular hotspots to choose from, Boston is a cozy destination for exploring on your own. Did we mention the focus on sports and winning culture? Yep, that’s Boston.

Things to do: 

• Walk the Freedom Trail
• Chow down on fresh seafood at the Quincy Market
• Catch a game at Fenway Park
• Stroll through the Boston Public Garden

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