Have you been searching for the best places in the USA for solo female travelers? Join us as we uncover our top (and safest!) picks.
When it comes to the best places in the USA for solo female travelers, safety will always be paramount.
When you’re out there exploring the world as a solo female traveler, there are so many things to consider.
- How easy is it to get around the city?
- Will I need to rely on taxis at night?
- Is the city / location walkable?
- Will I feel safe walking around?
- Are there affordable high-quality hotels?
- What is the city like at nighttime?
But, saying all of this, it’s important to have fun too!
This list has everything from the Big Apple to the Californian Coast, and I’ve purposefully picked locations where I myself have felt safe as a solo female traveler – or locations that friends of mine have recommended to me.
So, let’s dive in!
Best Places to Travel Solo as a Female in the USA
New York City, New York
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of New York City. This city speaks to my soul. But, I feel like it’s also one of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US!
Personally, speaking from experience, I have never felt unsafe in NYC. I am always happy and confident walking around the city, using the subway, and visiting different neighborhoods by myself.
Now, of course, NYC is a city. And cities do come with risks. I’d always recommend traveling with your wits about you, having a secure bag, not talking valuables out on the street. But honestly, I would be giving you that advice for ANY city in the USA.
Read more about visiting NYC solo: 45 things to do alone in NYC!
Here are some reasons I think NYC is a great location and one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers:
The city is extremely walkable, and most neighborhoods in central Manhattan feel safe.
- There are lots of guided tours and group tours – meaning you can join groups easily if you want to.
- Solo-dining is pretty normal here, so you won’t feel weird sitting at a bar and enjoying a solo meal.
- There are lots of food delivery options for you, if you don’t want to dine out solo. And you’d rather eat in your hotel room.
- There are so many amazing tourist sights that are easily, and safely, done solo.
- There are lots of safe hotels in the center of the city.
- There is extensive public transport, and lots of licensed taxis in the city.
- The city is very well-lit at nighttime.
- I find New Yorkers friendly and helpful. If you need help, just ask.
With so many cultures to explore here, so many sights to see, and so much amazing food to try – it’s no surprise that NYC makes my list of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
Read more weekend getaway ideas: 20 inexpensive weekend getaways in the USA
Seattle, Washington
We simply had to include Seattle on our list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US.
Seattle really couldn’t be safer for solo travelers, and you can easily stick to the center of the city for several days.
Seriously, the Capitol Hill and Pike Place Market districts alone are enough to keep you occupied for a weekend!
But what we love about this spot are the adorable farmer’s markets, antique shops, and vintage stores. You’ll find them popping up around every corner, and you never know what you might find.
There’s also a great food scene in Seattle, and the energy here is really welcoming, inclusive and friendly.
Here are some more reasons I love Seattle as a solo traveler:
- The city center is extremely walkable
- Locals and friendly and always happy to help with anything. Locals are also very inclusive and LGBTQ+ friendly.
- There are lots of fantastic restaurants and delivery options for dining out
- There are a lot of great group-tour options for if you want to explore further afield (Seattle is surrounded by some fantastic landscapes and mountains).
As you can see, Seattle is absolutely one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers. If you’re wondering what time of year to visit… I would always recommend summer time!
Seattle has the most beautiful summer season in July and August, with pretty reliable sunshine and blue skies all month long.
San Diego, California
We have a serious soft spot for San Diego, and it’s absolutely one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
And hey, the low crime rate certainly doesn’t hurt either!
San Diego is a relaxed beachside city, with so much on offer. It’s not just about rooftop bars around the Gaslamp Quarter, there is also amazing seafood, live music, paddleboarding, kayaking, you name it.
If you feel like it, you can even book a whalewatching tour or just hang around on Mission Beach.
San Diego is laid back, and feels safe and welcoming. It’s that unchaotic beachlife you’ve been dreaming of – they just happen to have a city right next to the beach too (bonus!).
Whatever you do, San Diego remains one of the best places to solo travel as a female in the USA.
Read more about visiting San Diego solo: 26 things to do alone in San Diego!
Asheville, North Carolina
Next on our list of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US, it’s Asheville in North Carolina!
This gorgeous spot can be found right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is brimming with natural beauty.
Although you can spend your time exploring the city’s art scene (and restaurants!), it’s the hikes you’ll appreciate most.
Not only are the trails here always clearly marked, but they’re busy enough to make you feel uber-safe. But if you’re a little nervous about hiking alone, there are plenty of group trips and tours to take that part of the anxiety away for you.
While you’re here, you’ll also want to check out the incredible 250-room Biltmore Estate.
It spans a ridiculous 135,000 square feet and it’s an Art Deco building that everyone should see when they’re in Asheville.
But aside from the impressive architecture, solo female travelers can also explore the art galleries, restaurants, and record stores! There’s plenty to do here.
Overall, this is one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers, especially those who want to enjoy a small city, with access to nature and trails.
Read more travel ideas: 15 best places to travel in your 20s, in the USA
Boise, Idaho
Next on our list of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US is Boise, and it’s a total gem!
Now, this isn’t somewhere we’d recommend if you’re not remotely interested in nature or the Great Outdoors.
But if you appreciate long hikes and fishing trips, you’ll adore this part of the Snake River Valley. Many of the hikes around here offer breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountain Range, so if you’re into photography, then you’ll love capturing imagery up here.
Read more travel inspiration: 15 most walkable cities in the USA
Oh, and if you’re a biking enthusiast, you can even head along the Dry Creek Trail or the Boise River Greenbelt.
Both run for miles and are well-paved and well-lit which make them ideal picks for solo female travelers.
But we’d say what makes Boise one of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US is the cool culinary scene.
Not only can you hop on a dedicated culinary tour, but there are so many places for brunch. And who doesn’t love brunch?
Our top picks? The Blue Bench Brunchette and BACON Boise!
Boston, Massachusetts
If you’re on the hunt for the best places to travel solo as a female in the US, don’t miss Boston!
Boston is uber-clean and incredibly safe for the most part, but it’s also packed with lots of things to do, especially for solo female travelers.
So, it’s totally one of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US!
Oh, and did we mention that Boston is the Oldest City in America (talking to you, history buffs!). Actually, if you consider yourself a bit of a history buff, then Boston is going to be an amazing location for you – because the history here is never-ending!
Read more about visiting Boston solo: 30 fun things to do alone in Boston!
My friend’s sister lives in Boston, and it was her who first made me realize what an amazing destination this is for solo females. Whilst discussing the city, she explained to me that although she owns a car, she walks everywhere (because Boston is an amazingly walkable city) and never feels unsafe.
She also explained:
- Boston locals are super friendly for solo travelers
- The city is small and walkable, meaning it’s very affordable for visitors
- It might be small, but it’s packed full of activities (and plenty of tour guides and group tours)
- There is so much food on the scene! Restaurants are plentiful, and usually located in the same streets and neighborhoods.
While you’re in Boston, you can walk the Freedom Trail, visit the many museums, and check out the Boston Public Garden. If you’re nervous about doing these things solo, then there are plenty of group tours you can join.
With a low crime rate and friendly locals, Boston is one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
San Francisco, California
It’s no secret that California is one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers. And one of the most popular cities in California, is San Francisco.
Part of the reason that San Francisco is one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers, is down to its walkability and high turnover of tourists.
With the city being so popular with tourists and visitors, it means that the city is really built to entertain, and to keep visitors safe.
And of course, there is so much to do. San Francisco is obviously a standout spot as it’s home to attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39.
And hey, you can even hop on those iconic cable cars and stroll through Chinatown, or take long walks in some of the city’s most famous parks.
We’d say that San Francisco was so friendly, that you’ll have no trouble striking up conversations in coffee shops! It’s definitely one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
Portland, Maine
Portland Maine is another one of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US!
We’ll say that Maine’s main selling point (pun intended!) is its incredible seafood from the Atlantic. If you’re looking for the best places in the USA for solo female travelers, who are also obsessed with food – then Portland, Maine is the place for you.
Not only can you grab an iconic lobster roll here, but dining alone is totally normal and no one will look twice.
Read more travel ideas: 14 cheapest places to travel in December, in the USA
Actually there are plenty of casual eateries here that make it a great spot in the USA for solo female travelers.
Although you’ll need some street smarts here (like you would anywhere!), Maine isn’t a place that ever feels overwhelming or scary.
It feels local, charming, quaint and lovely. Which are all things that make it one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
While you’re here, make sure you check out the many lighthouses and check out the area’s rocky coastline. They’re so beautiful!
Trust us, you won’t regret it!
And if you’re remotely worried about safety, just get tracked Ubers to all non-central locations – sorted.
Scottsdale, Arizona
When it comes to the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, you can’t beat Scottsdale!
Scottsdale is virtually steps from the airport, and The Old Town is worth exploring on its own. It’s loaded with museums, galleries, and spas (perfect for recouping), but it’s also packed with restaurants.
So, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best places for solo travel as a female in the US…. It’s just so compact and easy to navigate.
Before you leave, make sure you visit the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. It’s a fascinating look into the history of the American West, and you can easily spend hours here!
Oh, and the Desert Botanical Garden Walk? Stunning. You can see why this place makes our list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US!
Las Vegas, Nevada
Okay, you might think that Las Vegas was only fun with friends or a partner. But it’s actually a great location, and one of the best places in the USA for solo female travelers.
Whilst the Las Vegas strip might’ve once had a bit of a dodgy reputation, the city has really done an amazing job of cleaning it up and making it a destination of it’s own.
I’ve visited Las Vegas more times than I can count, and it’s somewhere I wouldn’t hesitate visiting alone. And it’s somewhere I’ve always felt safe as a solo female.
In the casinos and shopping malls, you’ll be surrounded by other happy-go-lucky holiday makers and tourists, so striking up conversation is always easy, and everyone is always happy and willing to help, should you need anything.
Read more about visiting Vegas alone: 34 fun things to do alone in Las Vegas!
In terms of activities and things to do, there are loads of restaurants (which are usually solo-diner friendly!), lots of shows (like Cirque du Soleil!), music concerts, sports, and so much more.
Iif you want to explore a little further during the day, you can hop on tours that head to the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam.
Oh, and don’t forget the amazing pools that Las Vegas has! If you want a day of relaxation by the pool, that is an awesome way to spend the day!
Yup, there’s way more to this part of the country than gambling! It’s such a great choice for the best places to solo travel as a female in the US.
Oh, and if you’re looking for other things to do alone in Las Vegas? You can watch the Bellagio Fountains, visit the Neon Museum, or stroll around The Venetian Hotel.
See, there are several reasons this is one of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US!
Charleston, South Carolina
We thought it was time to give this list some Southern love. So next on our list of best places to solo travel as a female in the US, it’s Charleston in South Carolina.
We’ve included Charleston on our list of the best places to travel solo as a female in the US, because it’s charming, quaint and oozes that southern hospitality.
Not only is Charleston rated as one of America’s safest cities, but Southern hospitality is REAL.
Seriously, a table for one for some shrimp and grits will quickly turn into a conversation with everyone nearby.
Although we obviously recommend grabbing food, you can also explore the historic district and iconic plantations.
If you’d like to appreciate the area’s natural beauty, there are some amazing harbor views on offer at the Battery!
Oh, and don’t forget about those walkable streets, museums, and historic homes.
Honestly, it’s one of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US by a mile.
Lake Tahoe, California
Next up on my list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the USA, it’s Lake Tahoe.
This is an amazing location for the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, especially for women who love to be a little adventurous and try lots of outdoorsy activities.
Lake Tahoe is an amazing destination for outdoorsy types, no matter the season.
In summer time you’ll find incredible hiking, trails, water sports, kayaking, etc. And in the winter you can find all kinds of winter activities too!
Basically, not only is this place a great option for the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, it’s also a perfect year-round vacation spot.
Chicago
Next up on my list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, it’s Chicago.
Chicago is a wonderful city for a city-break, and when my sister and I visited a few years ago, we felt really safe as female travelers exploring the city.
There were parts of the city that certainly felt ‘less safe’ than others, but we tried to stay within the loop, and within the main touristy area. When we were in the central neighborhoods, we felt very relaxed and safe.
We especially loved how walkable the city is, but we also loved the many food choices, the amazing buildings, history, and the oodles of activities and things to do.
If you’re visiting, I recommend trying to visit Chicago during the summer months, when the weather is at it’s best.
Read more about visiting Chicago solo: 28 fun things to do in Chicago alone!
Why? Well, it’ll mean lighter evenings and more daylight (which helps towards feeling safe) and it’ll also mean there are more outdoors activities to enjoy too.
Chicago gets REALLY cold in the winter (which is cool if you’re into wearing multiple layers and freezing temps) but summer and early fall are when this city comes to life I think.
Montauk, New York
Next on my list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, it’s Montauk.
If it’s a charming and rustic beach getaway that you’re after, I recommend checking out Montauk, because you’ll love it.
Montauk is the epitome of ‘seaside town’.
Located a 3-4 hour drive from NYC, this is one of the most popular vacation destinations for city-dwellers to escape to.
Imagine this… Big beachside houses, charming coastline, rustic restaurants, and neighborhood bars. Montauk is idillic.
And it’s pretty calm and quiet too – people come here to escape the rat-race, so the vibe is really chilled. Overall it’s a great option if you’re looking for the best places to solo travel as a female in the US.
Orlando, Florida
Finally, on my list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, it’s Orlando in Florida.
Orlando is first and foremost a family-friendly destination, which means safety and security is at the heart of most destinations, resorts, hotels and theme parks.
This, by proxy, means that is also very safe for solo female travelers. There are always plenty of other tourists around, plenty of activities, and plenty of safe places to spend your time (even during the evenings).
So, if theme parks are your things, Orlando in Florida is a great place to check out!
I hope this list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US has given you loads of ideas and inspiration!
As you can see, there are so many amazing places to solo travel as a female in the USA, these are just a few of the top locations.
If you’ve got any questions, or you’d like to recommend any other destinations to this list of the best places to solo travel as a female in the US, then please let us know! We love hearing from you!
