Where to Travel Solo: Your Perfect Weekend Escape Guide

While major cities like New York and Los Angeles usually top the travel lists for solo adventurers, the US has countless smaller destinations that offer perfect weekend escapes without the tourist crowds. These spots let you explore at your own pace, meet friendly locals, and create your own quiet moments of discovery.

From cozy mountain towns to laid-back beach communities, here are 20 of the best solo weekend getaways across America that prove you don’t need a travel buddy to have an unforgettable mini-adventure.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is one of those cities that makes you feel like you belong there from day one. This Pacific Northwest hub manages to be both laid-back and buzzing with activity, where food carts serve up creative dishes on one corner while independent bookstores and coffee shops beckon from the next. The city’s compact size makes it perfect for solo travelers who want to explore on foot or bike, letting you wind your way through neighborhoods filled with quirky shops, local breweries, and some of the best donuts you’ll ever taste. It’s a place where you can spend your morning hiking through Forest Park’s towering trees, your afternoon browsing Powell’s City of Books, and your evening chatting with friendly locals at a neighborhood pub. While the rain might show up uninvited, it’s all part of the charm that makes Portland feel like home.

Austin, Texas

Solo travelers flock to Austin for its legendary live music scene, but this Texas capital offers much more than just concerts and guitar riffs. The city sits along the Colorado River, where you can paddleboard or kayak during the day before heading to South Congress Avenue to explore its quirky shops and food trucks. During summer evenings, watching thousands of bats emerge from under Congress Avenue Bridge has become a local tradition, while the year-round warm weather makes outdoor spots like Barton Springs Pool and the Greenbelt perfect for hiking and swimming. Whether you’re catching a show at one of the many venues on 6th Street, sampling BBQ at spots like Franklin or La Barbecue, or checking out the local art galleries, Austin’s laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to mix with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Sedona, Arizona

I first visited Sedona on a whim during a Arizona road trip in 2019. Nestled in the heart of red rock country, Sedona sits surrounded by towering rusty-hued cliffs and winding canyon trails. The small town blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, where adobe buildings and local art galleries share space with pine forests and desert gardens. Spiritual seekers flock to the town’s famous vortex sites, while outdoor enthusiasts hit the hundreds of hiking and biking trails that snake through the surrounding wilderness. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, perched dramatically between two red rocks, offers some of the best views in town, especially as the setting sun paints the landscape in warm golden hues.

Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Asheville first caught my eye during a road trip in 2018. This laid-back mountain town sits in a valley surrounded by some of the oldest peaks in the world, with the winding Blue Ridge Parkway threading through the surrounding forests. Downtown Asheville mixes historic Art Deco buildings with craft breweries and indie boutiques, while the famous Biltmore Estate stands as America’s largest private residence. The city’s River Arts District houses working artists in converted warehouses along the French Broad River, where you can watch glassblowers and potters at work before grabbing a locally-roasted coffee. The mountains here offer endless hiking trails and waterfalls, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who also appreciate good food and beer after a day of adventure.

San Diego, California

Solo travelers flock to San Diego for its year-round sunshine and laid-back coastal vibe, but this Southern California gem offers much more than just perfect beach weather. The sprawling Balboa Park houses over 17 museums and the famous San Diego Zoo, while the historic Gaslamp Quarter serves up a mix of restaurants, shops, and nightlife spots perfect for meeting new people. During the day, you can kayak the La Jolla Caves, learn to surf at Pacific Beach, or hop on a bike to explore Coronado Island. Even if you visit in the middle of winter, temperatures rarely dip below 65°F, making San Diego an ideal escape for outdoor activities any time of the year.

Denver, Colorado

I always tell solo travelers that Denver is the perfect mix of city life and outdoor adventure. Nestled against the Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City lets you hike through red rocks in the morning, explore world-class museums in the afternoon, and catch a Rockies game at Coors Field by evening. With 300 days of sunshine, a booming craft beer scene, and plenty of friendly locals to chat with, it’s hard to feel alone in this welcoming mountain town.

Charleston, South Carolina

Ever strolled down a cobblestone street lined with pink oleander and centuries-old mansions? That’s just another afternoon in Charleston, South Carolina, where history meets Southern charm at every corner. This coastal gem combines antebellum architecture with modern-day comfort, making it perfect for solo travelers who want to experience authentic Southern hospitality. You can hop on a horse-drawn carriage through the French Quarter, sample fresh seafood at the City Market, or take a peaceful walk along The Battery with views of Fort Sumter in the distance. And with its growing food scene, you’ll find yourself hopping between classic lowcountry restaurants and trendy rooftop bars, all while locals share stories of their beloved city.

New Orleans, Louisiana

I always tell solo travelers that New Orleans is like nowhere else in America. Located along the Mississippi River, this lively city blends French, African, and American culture through its music-filled streets, historic architecture, and world-famous cuisine. From catching live jazz on Frenchmen Street to wandering the French Quarter’s centuries-old buildings, or sampling beignets at Café du Monde, you’ll find endless ways to fill a weekend getaway.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville has a way of drawing you in with its infectious energy and down-home charm that’s hard to resist. This Tennessee city goes way beyond its reputation as just a country music hub – though you’ll definitely want to catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry. The city mixes old-school honky-tonks with modern rooftop bars, food trucks serving up hot chicken alongside classic meat-and-three spots, and neighborhoods each with their own distinct personality. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your morning browsing vinyl at Third Man Records, your afternoon sampling local craft beers in East Nashville, and your evening two-stepping with locals at Robert’s Western World. For solo travelers, Nashville’s famous Southern hospitality means you’ll never feel alone, whether you’re joining a walking food tour or chatting with musicians on Lower Broadway.

Key West, Florida

I always tell solo travelers looking for a laid-back escape to head down to Key West. Sitting at the southernmost point of the continental US, this quirky island city blends Caribbean charm with Florida flair. The compact downtown area lets you easily walk or bike between Ernest Hemingway’s former home, bustling Duval Street’s open-air bars, and the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Plus, with warm weather year-round and plenty of outdoor activities like snorkeling and kayaking, it’s impossible to feel bored or lonely here.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

I first discovered Santa Fe on a solo road trip through New Mexico in 2018. The oldest state capital in America sits nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at 7,000 feet above sea level. Adobe buildings and centuries-old churches line the historic plaza, where Native American artisans sell their handcrafted jewelry and pottery. The city’s rich cultural heritage flows through its narrow streets, from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to the Palace of the Governors. The laid-back vibe and year-round sunshine make it perfect for wandering between art galleries, sampling green chile dishes, and hiking the nearby mountain trails. Plus, the small size of downtown means you can explore most highlights on foot, ideal for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in the Southwest’s unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo traditions.

Burlington, Vermont

I always recommend Burlington to friends looking for a laid-back New England escape. Nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, this welcoming college town combines the charm of local markets and cafes with outdoor adventures. The Church Street Marketplace serves as the heart of downtown, where you can browse indie shops, grab a craft beer, or catch street performers doing their thing. Just a short drive away, you’ll find hiking trails, ski slopes, and scenic bike paths that wind along the waterfront.

Savannah, Georgia

Travelers flock to Savannah for its Spanish moss-draped streets and historic architecture, but this charming Southern city offers much more than just photo opportunities. The downtown area features 22 park-like squares where you can take a break between visiting local art galleries and antique shops. While history buffs explore sites like Fort Pulaski and Bonaventure Cemetery, food lovers can sample traditional Low Country cuisine at the city’s many family-owned restaurants. You can join a ghost tour through the historic district at night, or spend your days browsing boutiques along Broughton Street – but no matter when you visit, Savannah’s laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for solo travelers looking to set their own pace.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle was my first solo trip to the Pacific Northwest back in 2019. Nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, this laid-back city is known for its coffee culture and tech scene. Pike Place Market sits at the heart of downtown, where local vendors toss fish and arrange colorful flower bouquets as tourists and locals alike weave through the historic halls. The iconic Space Needle pierces the skyline, offering views that stretch from the Olympic Mountains to Mount Rainier on clear days. Down at sea level, neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard invite wandering with their indie bookstores, craft breweries, and music venues that gave birth to the grunge movement. When the clouds part, locals flock to Green Lake or Alki Beach, where the city’s active spirit comes alive against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and evergreen forests.

Boston, Massachusetts

Solo travelers flock to Boston for its rich history along the Freedom Trail, but this New England hub offers much more than Revolutionary War sites. The city’s waterfront location provides opportunities for harbor cruises and fresh seafood feasting at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, while the Public Garden and Boston Common offer peaceful spots for afternoon strolls. In fall, the city comes alive with college students returning to its many universities, bringing energy to neighborhoods like Cambridge and Back Bay. Whether you’re catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, browsing boutiques on Newbury Street, or sampling clam chowder at historic restaurants, Boston packs plenty of activities into its walkable streets.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor sits pretty on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, where the mountains meet the sea. Hugging the coastline of Acadia National Park, this New England town mixes classic coastal charm with outdoor adventure. You can start your morning kayaking beside granite cliffs, spend the afternoon hiking Cadillac Mountain’s trails, and end your day sampling fresh lobster rolls at the waterfront restaurants. The downtown area packs local shops and cafes into walkable streets that lead right to the harbor, where you can hop on a whale watching cruise or just watch the boats bob in the bay.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the American West in all its glory, Jackson Hole should be at the top of your list. This Wyoming valley, nestled between the towering Teton Mountains and vast wilderness, serves up the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. During summer, you can hit the trails for hiking and mountain biking, while winter transforms the landscape into a world-class skiing destination. It’s not just about the activities though – the town’s wooden boardwalks and authentic cowboy bars give you a real taste of western culture without feeling touristy. Wildlife watchers will find themselves in heaven here, with elk, moose, and even grizzly bears roaming freely in the nearby Grand Teton National Park.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is where neon dreams and desert nights collide in spectacular fashion. Unlike other major cities that wind down after dark, Vegas is just getting started when the sun sets behind the Spring Mountains. The famous Strip runs for 4.2 miles through the heart of the city, lined with themed hotels that transport you from ancient Egypt to modern Paris in the span of a few blocks. Because of its reputation as an entertainment capital, solo travelers will find themselves surrounded by fellow adventurers at poker tables, poolside parties, and world-class shows. Beyond the casino floors, you’ll discover a growing arts district, chef-driven restaurants, and nearby hiking trails at Red Rock Canyon that prove there’s more to Vegas than just gambling and glitter.

Miami Beach, Florida

I first visited Miami Beach on a whim during a humid July weekend in 2019. This narrow barrier island, just off the coast of mainland Miami, has been drawing solo travelers to its shores since the Art Deco boom of the 1930s. Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue form the main arteries of South Beach, where pastel-colored buildings stand as cheerful reminders of the area’s architectural heritage. The beach scene here is exactly what you’d expect – golden sand dotted with rainbow umbrellas, clear turquoise waters, and beach bars serving up frozen cocktails. By night, the streets come alive with Latin music spilling from busy restaurants, while during the day, you can join the locals for a peaceful stroll along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, stretching from South Beach to North Beach.

Palm Springs, California

Ever spotted a classic convertible cruising down a palm-lined street? That’s just another day in Palm Springs, a desert oasis two hours east of Los Angeles where mid-century modern meets mountain views. This retro-cool city draws solo travelers with its mix of poolside relaxation and outdoor adventure – you can ride the aerial tramway up to Mount San Jacinto in the morning and spend your afternoon gallery-hopping in the Design District. When the sun sets, the city comes alive with boutique hotels, intimate wine bars, and plenty of spots where dining alone feels completely natural. Plus, with 350 days of sunshine a year, you can pretty much count on perfect weather for your weekend escape.