10 Unforgettable Solo Experiences in the U.S.

woman walking alone
Photo by Hanna Postova on Unsplash

Solo travel in the United States is one great big adventure after another. From big cities to lush rainforests to snowy beaches, the Land of Opportunity has everything. And the best part about solo travel is you can go your own way – unencumbered by the demands of friends and family.

The funny thing is, you also tend to meet more people when you travel alone. You’re not ensconced in your gaggle of friends but, rather, out and about chatting with the local bartender or owner of an art gallery. 

Below, we’ve outlined ten amazing spots in the U.S., from coast to coast, that will open the door to new possibilities – and friendships – wherever you go. Ready to hit the road? 

New York, New York

new york city
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It may seem counterintuitive to tackle a big city on a solo trip, but New York will take care of you! In a sea of people, it’s easy to blend right in with the crowds and go your own way. No one will stop and make you feel awkward or singled out. If it’s your first time, you’ll be safe basing yourself out of Midtown Manhattan. The Library Hotel on E. 41st puts you in close proximity to Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library if you’d like to take a tour and all of Fifth Avenue. Walk up to Museum Mile and pop into the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Head into Central Park. Sip on some afternoon tea at The Plaza Hotel. In no time at all, you’ll feel as though you fit right in. And, to help you round out your trip, here are some more unforgettable experiences in and around the city. 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

philadelphia
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Sticking with the theme of big cities, Philly will also treat you right when you spend a day or two. A nice place to base yourself is Rittenhouse Square. The Warwick Hotel will be happy to welcome you for a few nights. Then, right across the square, you have one of the best restaurants in town – Parc. It features French delights and will make you feel like you’re sitting in a restaurant in Paris. Then, you have Rittenhouse Row for some upscale shopping and plenty of historical sights like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Elfreth’s Alley – a picturesque cobblestone street with beautiful homes dating back to the early 1700s. 

Boonsboro, Maryland

inn boonsboro
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This one might be a curveball. But if you’re a Nora Roberts fan, this will make perfect sense. The prolific author bought and restored a beautiful building right there on the square in Boonsboro and transformed it into a luxurious inn. Spend a night or two here at Inn BoonsBoro, where you’ll be treated to a delightful breakfast each day. When it’s time for dinner, you can walk across the square to Vesta Pizzeria, another family-owned establishment. You can also visit Nora’s husband’s bookstore, Turn the Page, to take a book back home for the night as you sit by the fire with a nice glass of whiskey. 

Savannah, Georgia

the gastonian
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Savannah is pretty as a picture and a true Southern Belle. Here, you’ll want to take aim at the historic district. The Gastonian is one of the most magnificent inns in a city filled with beautifully restored B&Bs. It’ll put you in prime position to enjoy brunch at Collins Quarter, and a stroll through the square to Gallery Espresso for a mid-day pick me up. Broughton Street will help you shop ‘til you drop – particularly at The Paris Market. Come evening light, head on down to River Street to savor a cocktail at the rooftop bar of The Bohemian. When you start all over again the next day, you’ll be happy to wake up amidst the sumptuous sheets of The Gastonian Inn.