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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

Young woman overlooking beautiful valley, Molladalen, Norway.

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From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Diver observing Southern stingrays as they glide over the sand in search of buried crustaceans on the Sandbar, Grand Cayman Island.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The Eiffel Tower and River Seine in Paris, France.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Flowers and greenery in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina, in the summer.

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

Man paddleboarding in Iceland glacier lagoon.

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Seattle skyline with Mt. Rainier in the background at sunset.

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Souvenirs on the Jamaa el Fna market in old Medina, Marrakesh, Morocco.

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Aerial of river and greenery with Austin skyline in the background.

Austin, Texas

Elephants crossing a river in Sri Lanka.

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Solidão Beach (Loneliness Beach) in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Florianópolis, Brazil

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The 18 best solo trips in the U.S.

Ready to venture out on your own? Our selection of the best solo trips in the U.S. are the perfect way to get started.

Solo travel is booming—for good reason. Sure, sharing experiences with friends, family, or your significant other is fun, but taking a trip alone is a whole other type of adventure. You can build confidence, take in moments without distraction, and, best of all, get to do exactly what you want to do. No debates about where to eat or what to see, just you and your whims. Being solo also makes it easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger, be it a local or fellow traveler.

Fortunately, you don’t have to venture too far to enjoy a fulfilling solo sojourn. Whether you’ve done this before or are looking to take your first trip alone, we've rounded up the best cities to visit as a party-of-one that will provide plenty of new experiences, whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie or beach lover. From the historic streets of Boston to the mountains of Colorado to the hills of San Francisco , here are some of the best solo trips to take in the US with plenty of itinerary suggestions to boot.

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Best solo trips in the U.S.

1. Nashville, TN

Let your love of music—and hearty Southern cooking—guide your trip through Nashville . For a toe-tapping good time, head to the Basement and possibly catch a 'secret' show from a national headliner in an intimate setting. Before the music, fill up with some finger-licking good Tennessee pork shoulder at Jack’s Bar-B-Cue , where you’ll make friends while waiting in long lines (trust us, it’s totally worth it) or test your limit for spicy food at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s . Celebrate a successful solo sojourn by ordering a cocktail at White Limozeen , the pink-hued, Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar atop the Graduate Nashville .

2. Marfa, TX

Independent travelers with an artistic side need to visit Marfa, which has quickly become a top destination for artists looking for a productive retreat. Miles away from any other city and hours from the nearest airport, this teeny-tiny small town (population: less than 2,000) in the desert boasts large-scale art installations (including the Instagram-famous Prada Marfa one), the Chinati Foundation art museum, and a historic army fort . Unsurprisingly, there aren’t many hotels here; however, we recommend Hotel Saint George , a minimalist-inspired boutique hotel with a bustling lobby bar and stylish interiors.

3. New York, NY

While being alone in a city as densely populated as the Big Apple might seem lonely, we guarantee it’ll feel quite freeing in no time. Get in a New York state of mind while heading to the city’s fabulous museums (including the MoMA , The Met , and the Whitney ), gorgeous public spaces and phenomenal performances on Broadway or at the Metropolitan Opera. Don’t forget to get a taste of the world-renowned Brooklyn food scene , and never fear going to a restaurant or bar to dine solo—in New York, that’s standard fare. Make SoHo your home base for exploring by staying at the design-centric Crosby Street Hotel , where guests and locals can mingle throughout the chic public spaces.

4. Boulder, CO

Hiking boots are a must if you’re visiting Boulder. Skiers and snowboarders take over the city in the winter, and when the weather is good, visitors flock to Eldorado Canyon State Park , Flagstaff , Chautauqua Park , and the Flatirons . Stay in the heart of town at the historic Hotel Boulderado , which puts you within walking distance of the vibrant Pearl Street Mall . Along this four-block-long pedestrian-friendly hotspot, you’ll find a slew of shopping, drinking, and dining options .

5. Portland, OR

Portland's laid-back vibes and numerous attractions make it ideal for a solo trip. Join fellow foodies as you sample your way through SE Division Street, including a savory breakfast at Pine State Biscuits and a creamy milkshake from Fifty Licks . Then, retreat to nature with a hike through Forest Park ; alternatively, stroll among thousands of flowers in the International Rose Test Garden . Looking to make new friends? Try hitting up a concert at local favorite Mississippi Studios or grab a beer at the city's many breweries. After an action-packed day, retreat to your room at The Nines , conveniently located downtown.

6. Asheville, NC

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this dynamic North Carolina city is a favorite among artists and outdoor lovers alike. The tranquil waters of the French Broad River, located within the city limits, are perfect for a kayak trip, while the nearby mountains offer plenty of great hikes and look-out spots for photographers and nature enthusiasts. If you want a more refined experience, check out the palatial Biltmore Estate , America's largest privately owned house. You can even spend the night here: Three properties can be found within the 8,000-acre grounds. Beer enthusiasts will also love it here: Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other city in America.

7. Boston, MA

While Boston might loom large in American history (it is the oldest city in New England, after all), you can walk the narrow winding streets and explore the relatively small center in a day. The nearly 400-year-old town is full of hidden treasures that can be discovered on a self-guided walking tour. Tired of trekking on foot? Try one of the trolley tours—the guides are top-notch, and you might just make some friends while aboard the bright vehicles. Also, history buffs will especially appreciate staying at The Liberty , a 19th-century-era jail-turned-luxury hotel.

8. Bozeman, MT

Even when you're alone in Bozeman, you're never lonely. The city is beloved not just because it's the perfect home base for solo activities like hiking, skiing, and horseback riding but also because the scene in town boasts interesting museums, distilleries, breweries, and restaurants. When you've had your fill of Palisade Falls, the Gallatin Canyon, or Bridger Bowl , stroll around the laid-back town's historic brewery sector or dig into the heritage of this wild northern landscape at the Museum of the Rockies before heading back to your room at the upscale Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman .

9. Chicago,IL

With top-notch museums and parks and a public transportation system that rivals any other across the country, Chicago is a winning bet for a vacationer still unsure about the pros of solo traveling. Indulge in some retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile (North Michigan Avenue) and visit an amazing spa for some much-needed R&R. Along the Magnificent Mile, you’ll also find a slew of splurge-worthy stays, including The Peninsula. In terms of entertainment, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Check out the city’s top comedy clubs , including The Second City and the Laugh Factory . Or, if it’s postcard-worthy views you’re after, make your way to one of the city’s many rooftop bars .

10. Seattle, WA

Make sure to pack a comfy pair of shoes when visiting the city’s top attractions , including the Space Needle , Pike Place Market , Fremont , and Pioneer Square . Art lovers will also appreciate a stay at Hotel Max , followed by visits to Chihuly Garden & Glass , the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), and the Frye Art Museum . Before you skip town, grab a cup of the world-famous coffee from a local café (we recommend Elm Coffee Roasters ) and hop on one of the Puget Sound ferries to take in the scenic landscape, including the skyline, waterfront, and, in the hazy distance, Mount Rainer.

11. San Francisco, CA

In a city that fully embraces free spirits, your desire to fly through local museums, restaurants, and eclectic neighborhoods solo will see you fit right in. Tourist sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island , and hopping aboard one of San Francisco’s historic cable cars. Once you've checked those off your list, explore one of the city's charming neighborhoods, such as Hayes Valley, Noe Valley or Pacific Heights. Try the Proper Hotel, which features a swanky rooftop bar, for accommodations.

12. Florida Keys, FL

If it’s sunny days, warm temperatures, and turquoise water you’re after, look no further than this laid-back locale. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride around the Keys, stopping at cafés and shops along the way. In the afternoons, head for the beach with a book and get ready to meet fellow travelers with a colorful cocktail in hand at the beachfront bars. If you want ultimate peace and seclusion, head straight to Little Palm Island , a private island resort about 30 minutes away from Little Torch Key via boat.

13. Washington, D.C.

Visiting D.C . solo allows you to explore the entire city at your own pace. Many museums are free and deserve an entire day of exploring—like the National Gallery of Art , the National Museum of African American History & Culture , and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History . In the evening, take in a transformative performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts or enjoy a play with a side of history at Ford's Theatre , where President Lincoln was assassinated. Prefer to shop and eat your way through vacation? Make sure to visit Dupont Circle and Georgetown , where splurge-worthy stays–including the Four Seasons –abound.

14. Austin, TX

Young-at-heart solo travelers will find Austin’s lively spirit infectious. The city attracts creative types, many of which regularly flock to local music venues. Visit the Continental Club for fun-filled nights, take a stand-up paddleboard tour of Lady Bird Lake , and stroll down South Congress Avenue , dotted with fantastic shopping. Of course, no trip to Austin is complete without some good ol’ Tex-Mex, and options abound, including Veracruz All Natural , Gabriela’s , and Matt's El Rancho . Once you’ve hit food coma status, head back to your room at the trendy LINE hotel and hop into bed.

15. Philadelphia, PA

Whether you’re a history buff looking to delve into our nation’s past, you want to eat your way through vacation, or you simply need some time by yourself, Philadelphia is the place for you. Stay near Center City (you can’t go wrong at The Loews ) and the whole shebang will be easily accessible: Gorgeous Rittenhouse Square —and the surrounding shopping area—is a stroll away, as is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell . Art enthusiasts should visit the magnificent Barnes Foundation and the sprawling galleries at the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Foodies, on the other hand, will appreciate the city’s booming culinary scene , including top restaurants like Laser Wolf and Vernick Food and Drink—just be sure to save room for a cheesesteak or two.

16. Detroit, MI

Formerly down-and-out Detroit has experienced quite the renaissance in recent years. Today, the city is a dynamic canvas for art, music, and thought. Hoof it around the Grand River Creative Corridor , the Dequindre Cut Greenway , and the so-called Guggenheim Ghetto to take in some incredible street art at your own pace, or head to landmarks of Tha D's Motown heritage like the Motown Museum and the homes of hitmakers Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin. When you've worked up an appetite, follow your nose for some Detroit-style pizza at Loui's or Polish dumplings at Pietrzyk Pierogi . Finally, rest your head at the chic, centrally located Detroit Foundation Hotel , so you’re never too far from all the action.

17. San Diego, CA

San Diego is all about the beach, surf, and California burritos. The 1,200-acre Balboa Park deserves a full day (or two) of your attention. Here, you’ll find gardens, hiking trails, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo . After a day of museum hopping and wildlife spotting, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, make your way over to the Gaslamp Quarter neighborhood and take your pick of eclectic eats, including American Junkie for pub grub, the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse for top-notch chops, Asti Ristorante for Italian fare, and Bang Bang for fresh sushi. Stay close to all the action (or, in this case, incredible eats) by booking a room at the Andaz San Diego .

18. Phoenix, AZ

Excellent eats, stunning desert surroundings, and gorgeous sunny weather: Expect all this and more in Phoenix. While visiting Arizona’s capital city, take advantage of the plentiful hiking opps, including Papago Park, Camelback Mountain and Phoenix Mountains Preserve . Later, bar-hop your way through downtown Phoenix ( Khla , Barcoa Agaveria and Baby Boy are a few of our favorites). Finally, catch up on some R&R at the tranquil Royal Palms Resorts & Spa , where you can lounge by the pool, people-watch in lush courtyards, hit the spa, and take cocktail-making classes—all while admiring beautiful flora and Camelback Mountain in the distance.

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Solo Vacations: The 29 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Stephanie Granada is a writer and editor focusing on travel, beauty, home, and health. Her bylines have appeared in Sunset , Outside , Southern Living , Woman's Day , Brit + Co. , National Geographic Traveler , and others.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

dlewis33/E+/Getty Images

If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

Austin, Texas

The quickest way to bond with a stranger? Shared musical taste. Austin has plenty of opportunities to bump into fellow music lovers. Stay on or near South Congress Avenue, where trendy properties like the Hotel Magdalena provide the ideal base for visiting the street's iconic venues. Other ‘hoods you can easily get to include East Austin, booming with hipster bars and food trucks; South Lamar with its great shops; and Rainey Street, beloved among college students. Visit March through November to see the bats flying under the Ann W. Richards bridge — it's one of the best things to do in Austin , as is indulging in the city's incredible food.

Islamorada, Florida

Of all the towns in the Florida Keys , Islamorada has the homiest feel. Locals are happy to regale you with tales of family squabbles and fishing exploits at any of the seaside watering holes. For an elevated dining experience, snag a barstool at Chef Michael’s and order the whole lionfish. It's a big but manageable dish, made from an invasive species that Floridians pride themselves on removing from local waters and serving as a tasty dinner instead. When you're done, rest your head at one of the cozy cottages at Moorings Village.

Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky is known for its hospitality and Louisville for its bourbon , meaning solo travelers can find good friends and good drinks while exploring this Southern city. NuLu is the most happening neighborhood, but Old Louisville is the place to hunker down if you’re a sucker for history and architecture. Downtown offers new hotels and inventive restaurants, while Butchertown and Germantown pair up-and-coming bars and businesses with impressive vintage architecture.

Marfa, Texas

Artists in search of a solitary life have been drawn to Marfa for decades. Today, the population hovers just under 2,000, but there’s enough art, food, and quirk for a city many times that size. El Cosmico offers outstanding glamping and communal spaces, while art houses like the Chinati Foundation keep visitors entertained. Though it's more than three hours from the closest airport, this flatland village offers progressive galleries, mystifying desert skies, and a sparse beauty that makes it one of the best small towns in Texas .

New York, New York

New York City might be full of crowds, but it’s also a welcoming hub for parties of one. There are sleek hotels with bars that draw worldly travelers and locals, some of the best art and shopping in the world, and more food and drink options than you can fit into a month-long trip. If you need help deciding what to do on your visit, take a look at our three-day weekend guide .

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is one of the safest states in the country — and solo travelers wanting to enjoy that security will find a great home base in Portsmouth. This waterfront town is one of the state's most pedestrian-friendly communities, and with a colonial heritage that dates back to the 1600s, it's fantastic for history buffs. Portsmouth knows its food, as is perhaps best showcased in the dozen oyster farms active offshore in the Great Bay. Sample their best bivalves at The Franklin, an upscale seafood joint run by James Beard-nominated chef Matt Louis.

San Diego, California

San Diego combines the laid-back vibes of SoCal with the multicultural energy of a city located right on the Mexican border. From mild weather and great surfing to vibrant West Coast sunsets, it has lots to offer, making it a great place to spend a few days. Opportunities for hiking and watersports abound, while coastal areas like La Jolla and Del Mar offer a bevy of chic hotels where a solo traveler can catch some oceanside R&R.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Solo travelers in search of spiritual healing should look no further than Santa Fe . Book a night at Ten Thousand Waves, an upscale lodge inspired by Japanese hot spring resorts and decked out with secluded soaking tubs. Downtown, you’ll find historical landmarks, handmade tchotchkes, and restaurants serving delectable Southwestern food. Beyond the adobe architecture and unique attractions, the best thing you can do in Santa Fe is meet its colorful characters.

Washington, D.C.

Museums are best explored alone, and in Washington, D.C. , you have more than 20 to choose from—many of which are free. The District also has a hot food scene, and as a solo diner, you'll have the best shot at getting into the most highly coveted spots. To get far away from D.C.’s political crowds, head to a hip residential neighborhood like Shaw, where you can imbibe at Maxwell Park Wine Bar or catch a show at the Howard Theatre.

6 Weekend Escapes from NYC for Solo Travelers

Subway Train Approaching Elevated Subway Station in Queens, New York

One of the best parts of living in New York City is that it is easy to escape. There are multiple major airports, train lines, ferries and a major interstate ready to whisk a traveler to points far and wide. But sometimes we just need a quick escape. Here are a few breaks for solo travelers, where you can bring an overnight bag to the office on Friday and return on Monday with that post-vacation glow.

Arts and Culture: Chicago

A two-hour flight makes the Second City an easy weekend getaway, and with every major carrier flying between the two cities, fares are often extremely competitive.

Without a traveling partner to split the cost, the hotel bill for a solo traveler can be the biggest expense of a trip. But Freehand Hotel is making the hostel cool — or as cool as it can be. Centrally located in the Windy City's North Loop (in addition to its Miami, Los Angeles and NYC locations), the chic hotel is relatively close to all the major art installations, an El station and Navy Pier.

Plus, as a solo traveler, you may even be able to snag a seat at two hard-to-get-into restaurants, Girl & the Goat or Alinea. Maybe.

Freehand Hotel, Chicago. (Photo courtesy of Freehand Chicago Facebook)

Adventure: REI Weekend Trip

Flying solo and adventure travel are not necessarily the best bedfellows. (Ask anyone who has seen "127 Hours".) So letting a reputable booker like REI plan all the logistics and organize a group can get you hiking, climbing or white-water rafting without fear.

A four-day excursion, like this one through the Great Smoky Mountains , manages all the food and lodging for the trip. Women can also seek out trips marketed just for them as well. Return to the city with an endorphin rush that doesn't come from dodging bicyclists.

(Photo by Dan Reynolds Photography / Getty Images)

A Wooded Retreat: Getaway House

When city life is just too much, escape off the grid to the Hudson River Valley. These tiny cabins have all the amenities you need (bathroom, a small stovetop) to disappear for a mini-retreat with nature — with a purposeful lack of Wi-Fi.

The Getaway grounds are just a short two-hour drive north of the city, but a nearby Amtrak station and a local taxi can also get you there. Pack your hiking shoes to explore the Overlook Mountain Trail or the Kaaterskill Falls, both moderate hikes. (Dogs welcome.) Swing by the Phoenicia Diner on your way back into the city to return rested and well-fed.

Getaway House, New York. (Photo courtesy of Getaway House)

Beach Bummin': The Confidante Hotel

There's really nothing that a little sunshine can't fix and fortunately Miami is just a three-hour flight away.

The Confidante Hotel offers daily pool parties and frequent happy hours in the lobby for solo travelers to mix and mingle with other hotel guests. For a more relaxed vibe, grab one of the retro-modern beach chairs for ocean views and a local paleta from the Cielito Artisan Pops for a refreshing treat.

The weekends also offer complimentary yoga (on Saturdays) or boxing (on Sundays) classes on the outdoor terrace, perfect for relieving what ails you. Once you're at this Category 4 World of Hyatt property, there's really no reason to leave.

The Confidante Hotel, Miami. (Photo courtesy of The Hyatt Confidante Hotel)

The Splurge: Wave Resort

Grab a seat on the Seastreak ferry bound for Sandy Hook Beach. The $45 ticket will have you on the beach in less time than an average commute — just 40 minutes. Once you've soaked up enough sun, grab the Seastreak shuttle bus to the shore's newest hotel: Wave Resort.

These minisuites are probably larger than your Manhattan apartment and definitely have better views. Once there, all your dining and relaxing can be done on-site. Although the room rates are a bit steep at an average $300 per night, there's no airfare to buy to get oceanside. After a full day of spa treatments and cabana concierge service, sleep will come easily with the sound of ocean waves — the real thing instead of your phone's white noise app.

Writer's Retreat: Troutbeck

The Metro-North commuter rail can easily turn into your escape patch from the city on the weekend. Ride the Harlem line north to the hamlet of Wassaic, New York, where the Troutbeck innkeepers will pick you up for the ride to retreat. At the resort, the 100-year-old building housing the guest rooms has been updated so every guest gets a king-size bed, large soaking tub and writing desk. Let the nature views inspire the next great American novel, to either write or read. (Those poolside lounge chairs look like they'd more likely inspire an afternoon reading session than novel-drafting.) If you decide to share your newfound escape with others, a circa-1790 four-bedroom cottage sleeps 12 comfortably for a private escape with friends. Get back to nature with on-site fly-fishing, hiking, and tennis. The inn's restaurant also uses as much local produce as possible. It's as close as you can be and still be so far away.

For the latest travel news, deals and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

The solo traveler’s playbook

Everything you need to know to get out there on your own—and have a blast doing it..

Solo travel is a total life-changing experience with tons of perks. Think about it: You can do whatever you want—whenever you want—at your own pace, and maybe even make a few new friends along the way. Whether it’s your first time taking the leap or your 100th, we’ve got everything you need to make your solo trip the best one yet, including trip ideas from travelers who’ve done it, top places for some alone time, practical tips, and more. Consider this guide the only travel buddy you’ll need.

Traveler stories

Exploring Istanbul, one meal at a time

Grab your passport and go.

A solo weekend in Bergen, Norway

See the U.S. at your own speed

My favorite solo spots to visit in San Diego

Trips for every interest

Have a spa day—or weekend

A solo reset in Costa Rica

Do the holidays differently

See the city on two wheels

Book a table for one

Solo travel tips & tricks

The nuts and bolts of traveling alone

Spots to save

Have a laid-back beach day.

The city’s all yours

Recharge in the desert

If you really want alone time

Best seat in the house

Make some new travel pals

All the room you need

30 BEST Places in the USA for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

05/07/2023 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

The United States is gorgeous, from sea to shining sea. I love being from such a huge and varied country with all kinds of different landscapes, cultures, and sights. If I spent my lifetime only exploring the States, I’d have so much variety it would still feel like I’d traveled far and wide.

It’s incredible that in one country you have some of the highest mountaintops, tropical beaches and icy glaciers, and rocky deserts with some of the most breathtaking formations on planet Earth.

So for those who want to test out solo traveling at home before they go abroad, or if you’re from elsewhere and want to see what the US has to offer, you’ve made a great choice. But with so many options, you might be wondering where to start. For a visual tour, watch the video below, or keep reading for an explanation of each below:

These are some of my favorites in the USA, plus the advice of several other solo female travelers to get you started:

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

best places in usa for solo female travelers

I forgive you if you don’t think of Hawai’i when you think of great places to travel solo, and I wouldn’t have either until I actually went to Maui alone last year. It was fantastic! There was so much to do , from a women’s surf school to driving the Road to Hana to joining snorkeling trips.

I thought I would be surrounded by honeymooners, but I actually found that people were very outgoing and friendly, coupled off or not. I highly recommend Maui solo, much to my surprise!

Book your stay in Maui here.

Book guided tours in Maui here .

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places for adventurous solo female travelers. With volcanoes, world-class dive and snorkeling sites , interesting beaches, and miles of hiking trails, there’s more to discover on the Big island than any other island in Hawaii. In fact, it’s larger than all of them, combined! After visiting more than six times, my favorite things to do are swim with the Manta rays at night, hike to the Captain Cook memorial, and join boat tours.

It’s easy to meet friends through activities, at the beach, and by going on day tours. The island is easy to navigate with a rental car, as there is one main road that circles the entire island. Most people consider going to the more tourist-heavy islands like Oahu , but the Big Island is amazing, too.

Book your stay in The Big Island here , or consider staying in a real treehouse (!).

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

The best beaches on the Big Island of Hawai’i

24 amazing things to do on the Big Island of Hawai’i

3. Alabama Hills, California

The Alabama Hills is BLM land, meaning it’s owned by the public (the Bureau of Land Management), with arches, beautiful views of the eastern Sierras, and lots of Hollywood history. I did a solo road trip here and enjoyed every minute of it. If you are a photography lover, the Alabama Hills has plenty of photogenic stops, including the popular Movie Road (pictured above), Mobius Arch (go at sunset!), Boot Arch, and Miss Alabama herself.

As a solo traveler, you’ll get lots of solitude in the Alabama Hills and the other deserts on my California deserts road trip , which I loved. This is one of the beautiful things about traveling in this part of the world: all the wide-open spaces and the spiritual vibe. Plus, you can’t beat the stargazing or the sunsets!

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

Whenever people who aren’t from the state visit California, almost everyone ends up falling in love with San Francisco. As a native Southern Californian, it’s in my DNA to roll my eyes and find this offensive, but deep down, I silently agree. The Bay Area in general is beautiful and temperate, and has a unique culture. My European friends often say it has a charm that reminds them of home.

I love it for the ease of getting around on the BART system, how small and contained the city itself is, and how picturesque and multicultural it is. Try a yoga or meditation class, head there during Pride, or see some live music at the Outside Lands festival. It’s the perfect place to jump off from or end up in when on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway too!

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

I’ve looked on every continent and I still haven’t found anywhere as beautiful or majestic as Big Sur on the central coast in California, though it’s seen its fair share of disasters lately. Still, when accessible, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the dreamiest waterfalls I’ve seen.

Big Sur is a fantastic place to unwind. If you want to meet others, the campsites can be pretty social. However when I’m out there, I find the best companions are the dolphins and whales jumping out of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, and the squirrels and deer on the trails.

For more on my favorite state and national parks in California, check out my musings on Alamo’s Scenic Route.

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

One of my favorite spots to explore on my own is in my backyard – Lake Tahoe! There are nearly limitless trails to discover (like in Emerald Bay ) during the summer months , including Tallac pictured above.

For those who don’t feel comfortable hiking or biking on their own, there are multiple companies that offer guided tours . There’s also much to do that doesn’t have to do with hiking, like taking pictures at some of the most beautiful parts of Lake Tahoe , especially in springtime . If you’re into skiing, sledding, or just taking a scenic gondola ride, winter in Lake Tahoe has so much to offer as well.

Need a place to stay? We’ve got you covered with a list of the best Airbnb’s and boutique hotels .

7. Mendocino, California

If you’re looking for moody coastline, crashing waves, spotted seals, incredible sunsets, adorable BnBs , and an abundance of inspiration, Mendocino is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

This is more of a retreat for those who want some peace and quiet. Walk along the coastal bluffs, explore Van Damme State Park, check out the glass sand beach in Fort Bragg, and eat delicious food at the Noyo Harbor Inn.

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

mount rainier national park pinnacle peak

When it comes to national parks in Washington , Rainier is easily my favorite. It’s such a prominent volcano, you can see it from most major freeways and suburbs of Seattle. Hiking around it is also easy enough, with trails like the Skyline trail serving up beautiful views all along your way.

Rainier is a popular national park, so if hiking solo , you’ll rarely be truly alone.

9. Seattle, Washington

If you want to visit a city teeming with activity but still find time for solitude, head to Seattle where the various neighborhoods and activities provide opportunities for both, sometimes even on the same day. Here you’ll find cultural foods , fantastic museums , and beautiful public parks. Talented local musicians perform throughout the city on most nights, so you’ll hear jazz, experimental, rock, punk, metal, baroque, blues, hip-hop.

You can navigate the city via public transit by day, or taxi/ride-share by night. Seattle is very solo-traveler friendly, so you’ll notice other people dining and enjoying the musical ambiance alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get past that ‘Seattle Freeze’ as people are friendly once you start the conversation.

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

The beauty of Portland is that a solo traveler can be as social as they’d like in the city and then retreat to the forest for solitude at any time. Portland is just a short drive away from the Columbia River Gorge , where you’ll find the majestic Multnomah Falls, among others.

In the city, you’ll enjoy bearing witness to all of Portland’s quirks, like its quintessential underground donut scene . Biking is quite popular in Portland, and you can join in on the cycling fun by taking a bike tour that focuses on the city’s vibrant art and poetry culture.

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas wouldn’t have been the first place that I would have expected to be awesome traveling alone, but with so much to do, it’s actually perfect! People are in a good mood. They’re there to be social and have a good time. I almost always make friends when I visit, whether with a group, or by myself.

There are fun indoor activities like the famous wax museum, Madame Tussaud’s , and there’s so much to see that isn’t on the strip, like the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam . These are my favorite day trips to take from Las Vegas. Las Vegas is also an excellent jumping-off point if you want to explore Reno (below). You can plan your road trip based off this guide .

12. Reno, Nevada

My current hometown , Reno is truly the biggest little city in the world. Because of it’s pretty small size but excellent amenities, Reno a wonderful place to travel alone. It’s a hub for those looking to get lucky at our casinos, and the perfect spot for events like the balloon race each September, when hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky. Thanks to the art, food and culture boom of the last decade, there are tons of funky little cafes and restaurants.

If you love nature, there’s a place for outdoorsy people, too, who want to hike or ski in and around Lake Tahoe. You’ll find bobcats, the extraordinary lake, migratory birds, hiking trails, mountains, salt pans, sand dunes, brilliant stars, and hundred-year-old trees. In Reno, you’ll have the time and space to take it all in.

13. Page, Arizona

Page is the jumping-off point for several of Arizona’s most beautiful places. I was blown away in particular by Horseshoe Bend and of course the famous Antelope Canyon. Since this part of the world attracts so many travelers, I found it easy to have conversations with others who were free-camping with me, and even made a friend when I ventured to the paid campsites for a shower (but not in the shower itself, we met in the parking lot later, I swear).

If you’re considering which of the two canyons to visit, I did a comparison of Lower and Upper here , though both are worth checking out for different reasons!

Book your stay in Page, Arizona, here.

See tours available in Page here .

14. Moab, Utah

Utah is one of my favorite states to road trip through solo . I’ve done it twice and I’d do it again!

Although Zion National Park is gorgeous, and I love the national forests around Provo, it’s Moab that I find the best as a solo female traveler. Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. There are tons of parks like Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse Point State Park . Basically it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on earth, with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites, and plenty of things to do .

I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of common interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is no exception. It’s a favorite amongst van-lifers, which means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet others on the trails, in cafes, and at viewpoints .

Book your stay in Moab here .

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho really must be one of the most beautiful states in the wintertime . I stayed in Sun Valley for a winter and fell in love with the tranquil views, the spectacular sunsets, and snowmobiling when my legs were too tired from snowshoeing and skiing.

Sun Valley is a quaint town with fantastic skiing and snowshoeing, natural hot springs, and locals who are more than happy to have a conversation with visitors and newcomers. If you want to venture outside of Sun Valley, there are tons of amazing hot springs to check out. You can find my itinerary here .

Book your stay in Idaho here , or stay in a cozy, heated treehouse !

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

glacier national park things to do lake mcdonald

Glacier National Park in Montana is a magical slice of outdoors heaven that is perfect for solo travelers with an adventurous spirit and who thrive in solitude. Here you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, abundant greenery as far as the eye can see, and some of the best stargazing in the US.

Don’t be intimidated by the park’s size, because it’s totally doable to visit for just a couple of days. Check out everything you can do in Glacier National Park in just 48 hours for inspiration.

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe seems like the more upscale, artsy, and design-focused part of New Mexico — and I love it! While other parts of the state have their own character, Santa Fe served up that quintessential Southwestern vibe that most people picture when they think of New Mexico.

This is where you’ll find some of the finest restaurants, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA). The Meow Wolf Museum was a trippy wonderland, and the galleries of Canyon Road had me enchanted. It’s a solo traveler’s paradise, with many awesome things to do .

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

Midwesterners are known for being friendly, and they lived up to their reputation when I visited Bayfield, Wisconsin. It’s an artsy town with outgoing residents, and it’s small enough that it feels intimate, yet big enough that there is plenty to do. Join a kayaking or boat trip, or take a drive around to the various orchards.

There are plenty of beaches and quirky hangouts as well, and camping opportunities abound. If you visit in the winter, the famous caves ice over, which looks incredible. If you’re into photography and the outdoors, then you will absolutely love this little town on Lake Superior, the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands .

Book your stay in Bayfield here.

19. Chicago, Illinois

Visiting such a large city solo gives you a sense of anonymity that can be exciting. When I lived in Chicago, I loved going on solo adventures all over town and discovering cultural gems, quirky restaurants, and unexpected museums. Each neighborhood in Chicago has a personality of its own, filled with endless adventures. Whether you’re staying for a couple of days or a few weeks, you can be sure that Chicago lives up to the hype of its being one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

No matter if you visit during the frigid winter or the lively summer, don’t miss out on an architecture boat tour — Chicago is bursting with history, and many stories come to the surface through its unique architectural history. You can also take a tour of the legendary Art Institute of Chicago before opening hours, for a VIP experience.

I recommend that solo travelers choose accommodations that are in the Loop (downtown) area or close to an L train (Chicago’s metro) for easy access to public transport. This will give you the freedom to move around town without having to navigate the buses or use rideshares, which can get expensive, especially if you’re on your own.

If you are looking for ways to save money, check out all these incredible things to do in Chicago for free !

20. Detroit, Michigan

Although it’s known as the Motor City, there’s so much more to Detroit than cars and engines. It has a reputation for being one of the most historically rich destinations in the country, let alone the Midwest. It’s famous for its contributions to music, industry, and architecture especially.

Start your solo trip to Detroit with a walking tour that highlights the city’s beauty and architectural gems. You also won’t want to miss a trip to Belle Isle, a massive, 982-acre island park home to a conservatory, aquarium, museum, and nature center. Who knew you could find a peaceful green paradise in such an industrial place?

That’s what makes Detroit so special for a solo trip, though. You could spend hours walking around town, getting a feel for its urban flair, and then head somewhere else to connect with nature and find solitude.

There is so much to do in Detroit , you might find yourself going back over and over again for a solo trip or otherwise.

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

solo female travel in new orleans - Taken at Royal and Dumaine street in the French Quarter

New Orleans is the perfect place for solo female travelers ; there’s something for everyone here (check out our vegan guide !). You’ll find a fascinating and rich cultural history, one that you can discover over a long weekend, and then of course NOLA is known for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras . If it’s your first trip, stay in a boutique hotel on Royal Street, right near the allegedly haunted LaLaurie Mansion , or check out our list of boutique hotels in New Orleans . While you may have heard of the Garden District and the French Quarter, you absolutely cannot miss the Bywater district where you’ll find hipster art and culture with a Southern twist.

Though New Orleans is a large city, you can easily get around via public transportation (bus or streetcar), or navigate on foot. You’ll be surrounded by tourists and locals and as with any city, exercise precautions. Our New Orleans packing list will help pack to get the most out of your trip.

Book your stay in New Orleans here.

22. Austin, Texas

In recent years, Austin has completely exploded in popularity. More and more young people are choosing to transplant themselves to this hip Southern city, and I can’t blame them. There’s so much to do there — from catching live music to the summer street festivals and top-notch museums, this city has it all.

Austin is the perfect solo destination for travelers who enjoy meeting other people on the road. It’s very social, with bustling restaurant, café, and bar scenes. Go vintage shopping at North Loop Vintage Shops, see the city via bike tour , or connect with your inner child at the Museum of Ice Cream . It’s no wonder Austin is such a popular destination for travelers, solo or otherwise.

23. Big Bend, Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly how it felt exploring Big Bend National Park . The sky, the landscape, and the wide open spaces felt endless. Plus, Texans are friendly.

Check out the Windows, watch the sunset on the Rio Grande, and hike til your heart’s content in one of the biggest national parks in the system.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

Famously a destination for girls’ trips and bachelor bashes, Nashville has a bit of a reputation for being a party city. Maybe as a solo traveler, this is exciting to you. If it’s not, no worries! There is much more to Nashville than its vibrant nightlife.

Nashville is bubbling over with historic sites, street festivals, live shows, and much more. It’s also one of the cheapest destinations in the USA and has plenty of free things to do . The Tennessee State Museum and Cooter’s Place Museum are among many free museums one can visit; there are also plenty of parks and the legendary Music City Walk of Fame.

When you travel solo, you don’t have anybody to split transportation and accommodation costs with, so finding affordable destinations makes a big difference in how much you can stretch your dollar. Nashville is my top pick for an affordable solo trip.

25. Islamorada, Florida

islamorada indian key islamorada things to do, florida keys one-week itinerary

Also known as the Village of Islands, Islamorada is a beautiful destination for a solo traveler. The best time to visit is during the winter or early spring when hurricanes are raging somewhere else. When you get here, it’s super easy and affordable to navigate the town with the free taxi-service in electric vehicles called Freebee .

Islamorada has beautiful snorkeling (interested in snorkeling in Key Largo ?), awesome fishing opportunities, and uninhabited mangrove islands to explore. If you rent your own boat, you can go to some of the best off-shore reefs and fishing spots; if you rent a kayak, you can check out the historic ghost town of Indian Key.

Water-based activities aren’t for everyone though, so hop on the road and drive over to Windley Key to walk along giant walls of carved limestone. Islamorada also has a thriving local arts culture, supported especially by the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. Plus there are beautiful beaches (check out the best beaches in Key Largo ), and vibey restaurants where you can find locally caught seafood, live entertainment, and activities like feeding the tarpon. Uniquely situated among the rest of the Florida Keys, you can also conveniently take a bus north towards Key Largo or south towards Key West , stopping at tropical destinations along the way like those in Marathon and Big Pine .

Book your stay in Islamorada here (the hotel also offers fishing charters!).

26. Miami, Florida

Colorful and vibrant, Miami stands out as one of the most unique cities in the US. Between hearing salsa at all hours of the day in Little Havana and finding murals from world-renowned artists throughout the city, your senses will be delighted here.

If you thought Miami was all about crowded beaches and roaring nightclubs, think again. It’s a great place for solo female travelers, because of the abundance of things to do in Miami . Plus, the city has an excellent reputation for being extremely hospitable, and even quite safe in general.

Whether you are looking for a beach vacation where you can soothe your worries with a dip in the ocean or a full-on intercultural experience, you’ll find it in Miami.

27. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is dripping with Southern charm, and definitely has plenty to do to keep any solo traveler occupied. Some travelers describe it as the closest thing to a fairytale, and judging by the elaborate architecture, towering oak trees with Spanish moss, and overall historical atmosphere, I think they’re right.

Fall in love with Savannah by hopping on an e-bike tour to see the city’s highlights. As it’s such a globally recognized soul food destination, get a taste by taking a food tour . Both of these activities are great if you want to have a bit of social interaction with other travelers, but if you want to hit the town solo, make sure to spend time strolling through the Historic District and River Street.

Ready to be enchanted? Check out this ultimate Savannah Guide for more ideas of what to do and where to eat.

28. Washington, DC

Our nation’s capital city is undoubtedly the mega-hub for incredible historical sites and museums, such as those at the National Mall . Personally, I prefer going to museums solo, so I can move through each exhibit at my own pace. I’m that girl that needs to read every placard and see every little thing, so going by myself gives me the freedom to do that without holding anybody else up.

If this is also you, Washington DC will be heavenly to visit alone. Get up before dawn to see the way the rising sun illuminates the Lincoln Memorial, because nobody can stop you. This city is truly magical at sunrise, before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

You can also grab a seat on a historic hop-on-hop-off landmarks tour for another self-paced option. Or, if you prefer your history lesson a bit spookier, check out this haunted history ghost tour .

The Northeast

29. cape cod, massachusetts.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a family-friendly beach destination. Because it’s safe, easy to explore and absolutely gorgeous, it’s especially suited to solo female travelers. It’s also only an hour away from Boston and Providence.

If you have a car, you can more efficiently explore the ocean beaches and epic sand dunes. On the bay side, you’ll get breathtaking sunsets, which are even more spectacular at low tide when the colors reflect off the sand flat puddles.

If you like to hike, try the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail , which runs from Wellfleet to Dennis. You can rent a bike in outposts along the trail and deviate to marshes, lakes and cranberry bogs. If you’re looking for a more relaxing adventure, Wellfleet has drive-in movies and a weekend flea market. Gay-friendly Provincetown has restaurants serving the legendary clam chowder, nightlife, shop-til-you-drop opportunities and whale-watching excursions .

Book your stay on Cape Cod here.

30. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley nothing like New York City , yet the Big Apple is only an hour away. Here you’ll find farmers markets and mom ‘n’ pop shops in place of grocery stores and chain restaurants, and gorgeous views accessible via many outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and hiking. Some of the best rock climbing is at “the Gunks,” or you can explore trails at Harriman or Bear Mountain State Park or experience the Walkway over the Hudson .

There are so many pocket towns, called “hamlets,” where you can walk through orchards, browse in art galleries, and skip along the railway. The valley is also an excellent place for a road trip, especially during the fall when all the leaves are starting to change color.

best places in the usa for solo female travelers

Though the United States is huge, and no list could ever do justice to the wealth of places to see and experience, these are a few of our favorites. I hope this list helped you to get a sense of where to start — or continue — your solo journey.

If you have some favorite solo spots to share, please tell me in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Discover the Ultimate Solo Adventure: 31 Unforgettable Things to Do Alone in Phoenix!

Are you looking for fun things to do alone in Phoenix? A solo adventure in Phoenix unveils a tapestry of experiences, blending outdoor escapades, cultural immersion, and moments of pure relaxation. Having traversed the city’s vibrant landscapes multiple times, each visit unfolds a new chapter of discovery.

Table of Contents

Phoenix is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking for a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and relaxation. I have visited Phoenix solo numerous times as there is so much to do.

For the nature enthusiast, hiking Camelback Mountain or exploring Papago Park offers a chance to connect with the stunning desert landscapes. The Desert Botanical Garden provides a peaceful, solitary escape among the saguaros and agave.

Art and culture aficionados can immerse themselves in the Native American heritage at the Heard Museum, explore world-class exhibits at the Phoenix Art Museum, or get lost in the Musical Instrument Museum.

Old Town Scottsdale beckons solo travelers with its charming streets, unique boutiques, and delectable dining options. To add an element of adventure, take to the skies in a hot air balloon, drifting above the arid terrain as the sun rises, or venture to Tonto Natural Bridge to witness cascading waterfalls.

Whether you seek solitude in the desert, cultural enrichment, or culinary delights, Phoenix welcomes solo travelers with open arms, offering a diverse array of experiences that cater to your personal preferences and a chance to create lasting memories on your own terms.

Overview of Solo Activities in Phoenix, Arizona

Top 10 Things to Do in Phoenix Alone:

Hike Camelback Mountain: Enjoy a solo hike with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding desert.
Explore Desert Botanical Garden: Stroll through the beautiful cacti and desert plants, perfect for a serene solo experience.
Visit Heard Museum: Immerse yourself in Native American culture and art.
Wander Old Town Scottsdale: Discover art galleries, boutiques, and excellent dining options.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar above the desert at sunrise for a truly unique solo adventure.
Chase Waterfalls at Tonto Natural Bridge: A short drive from Phoenix, this natural wonder is a great day trip for solo travelers.
Phoenix Art Museum: Delve into the world of art and culture.
Papago Park: Explore the iconic Hole in the Rock and Desert Botanical Garden.
Musical Instrument Museum: Discover a vast collection of instruments from around the world.
Dine at Local Eateries: Savor the diverse culinary scene, from Mexican to Southwestern cuisine.

21 Things to do Alone in Phoenix, Arizona

Desert botanical garden.

Nestled within the heart of Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden stands as a captivating oasis spanning 140 acres. As a solo adventurer, this vibrant haven offers a unique solo experience, seamlessly blending tranquility and exploration.

Immerse yourself in a captivating tapestry of over 50,000 plant species showcased in breathtaking outdoor exhibits. The Garden, recognized among the top botanical sanctuaries by the American Alliance of Museums, is meticulously maintained by a dedicated team of over 650 volunteers and 229 full-time staff.

Step into the embrace of the Desert Botanical Garden, where each stroll is a narrative of Arizona’s natural wonders. With 92,150 herbarium specimens and 485 rare species, it transcends the ordinary, inviting solo travelers into an extraordinary realm. Wander through the cacti-laden pathways, find solace among saguaros, and discover the intricate stories of the desert flora.

This botanical marvel beckons solo explorers to partake in a rich tapestry of biodiversity, offering an immersive encounter with the desert’s wonders. Whether captivated by the allure of arid landscapes or seeking a serene solo escapade, the Desert Botanical Garden unfolds as a haven where nature and solitude gracefully converge.

South Mountain Park & Preserve

Embark on a solo odyssey in the expansive embrace of South Mountain Park & Preserve, a colossal municipal park revered as Phoenix’s grandeur. As the largest municipal park in the nation, spanning over 16,000 acres, this destination stands as a testament to Arizona’s natural magnificence.

For solo travelers seeking outdoor allure, South Mountain Park is an exhilarating playground, boasting 58 miles of hiking trails and mountain biking paths. Begin your journey at the South Mountain Environmental Education Center, delving into the mysteries of this colossal terrain.

Venture forth to conquer the summit and be rewarded with panoramic vistas, a visual symphony of desert hues stretching beyond the horizon. South Mountain Park, christened a Phoenix Point of Pride, invites solo adventurers to immerse themselves in the desert’s enigmatic charm, blending fitness, education, and scenic splendor into an unforgettable solo sojourn.

This colossal preserve transcends the ordinary, offering an immersive experience for solo travelers to forge a personal connection with the untamed beauty of the Arizona desert. With every step, South Mountain Park unfolds as an unparalleled solo sanctuary, where the spirit of exploration dances in harmony with the raw majesty of the Sonoran Desert.

Guided Tour for a small group – Join the Fun!

Why not try a guided tour through Phoenix as a solo traveler? There are many enriching experiences, blending expert insights with the freedom of personalized exploration. The diverse array of guided tours in the city caters to individual preferences, ensuring an immersive and stress-free solo adventure.

hot air ballon ride in phoenix is a must for all visitors

Opting for a solo-guided tour, whether through the enchanting Desert Botanical Garden or the historic streets of Old Town Scottsdale , provides a curated narrative by seasoned guides. These knowledgeable companions not only share fascinating stories but also offer a sense of camaraderie for solo explorers, fostering connections with fellow participants.

Why not try a two hour guided tour of Old Town Scottsdale ? I had the pleasure of experiencing this historical tour firsthand. The journey offers a perfect blend of excitement and cultural immersion, making it an ideal choice for thrill-seekers intrigued by Scottsdale’s Old Town narrative. Before setting off, the expert guides provide a comprehensive briefing and training session on navigating the cutting-edge Segway i2s.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, guided hot air balloon rides drifting above the arid landscape present a surreal solo escapade. The safety and expertise provided by skilled balloon pilots enhance the experience, making it an ideal option for solo travelers craving both adventure and tranquility.

Moreover, cultural excursions, like guided visits to the Heard Museum, showcase the Native American heritage with depth and authenticity. Solo travelers benefit from the shared cultural journey, gaining a richer understanding of Phoenix’s vibrant history.

In essence, each guided tour in Phoenix becomes a tailored solo escapade, blending local expertise, social opportunities, and a hassle-free exploration of the city’s diverse facets. These guided ventures offer a unique blend of education, entertainment, and connection, ensuring that solo travelers can savor every moment without compromising on safety or engagement.

The Premier Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Scientific Center is a science museum in downtown Phoenix, in the picturesque Heritage and Science Park, and one of the country’s top attractions for science and education. It was established in 1984 with the mission to inspire, instruct, and engage young minds in science.

The 140,000-square-foot structure, which Antoine Predock, a renowned architect, built, mixes ramps, galleries, corridors, and terraces into one distinctive Phoenix landmark.

The Arizona Science Center fosters brilliance in young minds via interactive displays, standards-aligned STEM education, and research-based initiatives. People of all ages may learn and be entertained in unique ways thanks to the cutting-edge planetarium, immersive displays, and five-story giant-screen theater.

The Phoenix Children’s Museum is another excellent place to go if you want to amuse kids.

Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is packed with exciting things to do and noteworthy attractions that are just waiting to be discovered. I love to walk downtown and try different bars and restaurants.

Downtown Phoenix is an excellent location to experience a variety of activities. It is a commercial and entertainment center that is home to art galleries, martini bars, brunch restaurants, interactive exhibitions, and the baseball stadium Chase Field.

Many visitors walk into the city center to take in live music and drink craft brews while mingling with residents and other tourists. The Valley Metro Rail eliminates the need for a car in downtown, making it simple for visitors to access important locations like Roosevelt Row, a walkable arts district.

With more than 200 restaurants, downtown Phoenix is a great place to grab a bite because there are so many delectable options. A wonderful nighttime option also includes rooftop lounges and bars with live music.

Visit the various art galleries, museums, and theaters during the day to find out more about the history and culture of the area.

Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum, located in the heart of a vibrant desert metropolis that invites inhabitants and visitors from all over the world, houses a sizable collection of artwork that dates back to the Renaissance.

For more than 60 years, it has encouraged a connection to the arts through its top-notch exhibitions and extensive collections.

The Phoenix Art Museum, the largest art gallery in the Southwest, hosts approximately 20,000 objects and receives over 300,000 visitors each year. The museum is committed to kindling the imagination and fostering connections via an inspirational environment filled with art that has the power to change lives.

I was so happy to make the trip to the Phoenix Art Museum, and you will enjoy it too whether you’re an art or history enthusiast.

The Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is a must-see sight for all music lovers while visiting Phoenix, Arizona! This is the largest museum devoted only to music and maintains a collection of more than 15,000 musical instruments and artifacts.

Now this is something I normally wouldn’t visit but wow this place is incredible and a great escape from the heat. I was so impressed with some of the instruments there and where they came from.

Each one can represent up to 200 distinct nations and regions. With the help of live performances, workshops, and other family-friendly activities, visitors may learn about music from all around the world.

This one-of-a-kind museum, which showcases international musical growth and its effects on the history of several world civilizations, is the only global museum dedicated to musical instruments.

In the wonderful Musical Instrument Museum, which is sometimes referred to as the “language of the soul,” visitors can learn about the influence that music has had on both culture and history.

The Hall Of Flame and Fire Museum

Along with a few other well-liked Phoenix attractions, Papago Park is home to the Hall Of Flame Fire Museum, which is devoted to conserving firefighting apparatus historically employed over the years.

The museum contains more than 100 fully restored things of fire equipment from 1725 to 2004 and approximately an acre of fire history exhibits.

The National Firefighting Hall of Fame has relics from all over the world, including places like Austria, Japan, Germany, France, and England.

There are out-of-date fire extinguishers, numerous FireMarks, and old fire alarm systems on display. A vast range of subject matter relating to the selfless acts of firefighter history is covered in lithographs, paintings, prints, and engravings.

George F. Getz, Jr. started collecting fire apparatus all across the world when the Hall Of Flame Fire Museum was established in 1961.

His children and grandkids have continued his work to advance fire safety education, honor firefighters who have died in the line of duty or who have received awards for extraordinary bravery, and preserve the history of firefighting since his passing.

Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale, the pulsating center of Scottsdale, is made up of nine pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods that are home to outstanding art galleries, shops, nightclubs, restaurants, world-class museums, and historical sites that date back to the 1800s.

This area is one of my favorite places to walk around and take in the history while you’re in Phoenix since it combines Old Wild West character with a sleek contemporary ambiance.

Scottsdale, which is only a 20-minute drive from Phoenix, is perfect for history fans and those who enjoy the outdoors. Near Scottsdale, there are numerous hiking and sightseeing opportunities in the desert.

After touring Old Town Scottsdale, a half-day hiking tour in the Sonoran Desert is a ton of fun. For another option, leave ancient Town Scottsdale and travel to the famous ancient Apache Trail used in the late 1800s before or after taking advantage of everything the city has to offer!

Check out my post on Things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona

The Desert Oasis Of Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake, a desert paradise in Arizona, is close to the Tempe city center. Its a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a haven for leisure pursuits including kayaking, rowing, stand-up paddleboarding, picnicking, walking, and fishing.

This urban setting is the ideal retreat from city life. Take in a live performance at the outdoor amphitheater, or have a picnic with friends and family on the grassy bank of the lovely lake. Or go see a baseball game at Tempe Beach Park.

Tempe Town Lake, the centerpiece of Tempe, is easily accessible from Phoenix and is worth visiting.

The Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo, which has been open since 1962 and is now acknowledged as the largest privately owned non-profit zoo in the United States, runs on 125 acres next to Papago Park.

The zoo, which is home to more than 3,000 animals, many of which are endangered species, is committed to protecting wildlife, as seen by their work to increase populations of ten critically endangered native Arizona species.

The Phoenix Zoo collaborates with numerous universities and organizations to promote wildlife conservation in Arizona and around the world.

The revival of the Arabian Oryx is one of this reputed zoo’s notable accomplishments. In the wild, this antelope became extinct in 1972. This extinct species was revived and returned to the wild with the help of the Phoenix Zoo and Fauna Preservation Society.

Visitors can now witness the majestic Arabian Oryx, which would have perished otherwise if not for the Phoenix Zoo’s crucial role in its survival.

The David and Gladys Wright House

The David and Gladys Wright House is a significant historical site. This house, which is a portion of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, was created and donated to his son David and daughter-in-law Gladys by Frank Lloyd Wright.

The house, which was built in 1950, is among Wright’s most distinctive and avant-garde architectural works. The residence is at the foot of Camelback Mountain, and because of its magnificent architecture, its inhabitants have a clear view of both the mountain and the desert beyond.

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation was established in honor of the building’s chief architect. With a career spanning seven decades, a well-known architect named Frank Lloyd Wright is acknowledged as one of the greatest American architects of all time.

The Japanese Friendship Garden

The 3.5-acre Japanese Friendship Garden is a walking garden inspired by the culture of the country’s sister city in Japan, Himeji. The RoHoEn garden, which bears that name, was built in 1987 to showcase the friendships that exist between Phoenix and Himeji in particular.

This is a great way to spend some time, stroll garden, there is a stone garden, a courtyard garden, a tea garden, and more. The City of Himeji and its residents donated every element of the garden’s ornaments.

The garden is a tranquil garden meant to be enjoyed, with over 1,500 tons of hand-picked rock, lanterns, stone footbridges, and more than 50 plants. The 12-foot waterfall, flowing streams, and the koi pond filled with more than 300 colorful koi fish make it feel as though you are actually in Japan!

I highly recommend visiting and taking in the beautiful landscape.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is a popular destination for hikers all year and is only twenty minutes from downtown Phoenix.

I first visited Camelback in 1992 and every time I visit Phoenix I always go back. Camelback is a highlight to any trip to Phoenix and there are so many great trails. I love hiking the mountain.

Two routes go up 1,420 feet to the mountain’s summit, which is said to be one of Phoenix’s best treks and has the shape of a camel’s back. This summit offers a panoramic perspective of the city and is a well-liked location for photos.

Camelback Mountain, which takes its name from two rock formations that resemble the head and back of a crouching camel, is a designated Phoenix Mountains Preserve that was made into a city park in 1968. It is close to a thriving dining area in Phoenix’s Arcadia district.

An experienced and qualified guide will lead your group on a private hiking tour to the summit, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Since the hike is difficult, beginners and little children should not attempt it. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and bring lots of drinks!

Papago Park

Papago Park, which offers a ton of outdoor recreation opportunities, is rich in history. I was so impressed to see this park in the middle of the city and everything it has to offer.

Papago Park is a fantastic Phoenix activity for history fans and energetic people. It was formerly a reservation for native tribes, a fish hatchery during the Great Depression, a POW camp during World War II, and subsequently a VA hospital.

Since then, Papago Park has grown to include the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, museums, and golf courses.

Visit Papago Golf Course to play a game of golf while surrounded by Sonoran Desert vegetation and animals. Papago Park is close to the Phoenix Zoo, which animal enthusiasts can visit, as well as the Desert Botanical Garden, where plant lovers can promenade.

The Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is a privately owned, nonprofit institution that supports the development of American Indian art.

Since its founding in 1929, the museum has expanded quickly and gained recognition on a global scale because of its top-notch exhibits, collections, great festivals, and top-notch educational programming. The American Indian people’s tales are presented in the first person, making for an effective story presentation.

The Heard Museum works in conjunction with American Indian artists and tribal groups to accurately represent and promote Native American art from their points of view.

This is a great place to learn about the development of American Indian arts and cultures because it was one of Phoenix’s first cultural attractions.

The Paradise Valley

One of the best things to do in Phoenix is to play a few rounds of golf at establishments like Orange Tree Golf Resort and Stone Creek Golf Club. Phoenix is recognized for its golf.

The most well-liked golfing location, however, is Paradise Valley, which is located in the center of Scottsdale and Phoenix’s desert oasis.

The famous Camelback Mountain to the south, the McDowell Mountains to the east, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve to the west encircle Paradise Valley. There are several indoor and outdoor activities in this town, including shopping and hiking.

This community, which is the wealthiest in Arizona, is surrounded by luxury amenities like real estate, dining establishments, golf courses, shops, and exciting outdoor leisure activities.

The Goldfield Ghost Town

A history museum, gold-mine tours, Old West gunfights, and other attractions are all available at the recreated 1890s town of Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours.

My grandparents first took me here in the 90s and we loved it as kids. Its a great place to visit with a lot of history.

Goldfield Ghost Town, which formerly housed a boarding house, three saloons, a general store, a school, a brewery, a boarding house, and a meat market, eventually perished slowly and painfully as the ore industry plummeted.

The abandoned gold mining town that was built next to the storied Apache Trail is visited by tourists from all over the world.

Visitors will get a taste of the Old West as they tour the Goldfield Mine and other historical sites on this exclusive ghost town and canyon lake day tour. Before the gorgeous steamboat cruise on Canyon Lake, lunch will be served at the Old Saloon.

The USS Arizona Memorial Gardens

The USS Arizona Memorial Gardens were created to flourish around the boathouse artifact housed in a glass case as a tribute to the gallant U.S. forces aboard the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The 1,170 of the 1,512 crew members who perished in the attack on Pearl Harbor are honored by this USS Arizona exhibit.

The USS Arizona had been hit by one torpedo and eight bombs, which resulted in a high casualty toll. On metal memorials made of stacked blocks with names and ranks etched, those who died are remembered in the gardens.

On benches positioned across the gardens’ pathways, survivors have also memorialized a few quotes. It is shaped exactly like the USS Arizona and is 608 feet long. Its design was inspired by the ship.

The Bountiful Historic Neighborhoods

There are 35 historic neighborhoods in Phoenix that visitors can tour. For instance, the Willo Historic District was created with specific traits in mind. As a result, Willo is one of Phoenix’s largest historic neighborhoods and has over 700 homes.

Thanks to Home Builders, a building company that constructed 41 homes in Willo in the same architectural style for five years, the neighborhood got its start in the 1920s.

The Alvarado District, where the Heard Museum is located, is another lovely location. There are several olive trees and Spanish and American colonial buildings in this area.

Another attractive neighborhood that was formed by the US’s withdrawal from the World Wars is Windsor Square. Beautiful ranch-style houses can be found here.

These districts are beautiful and well worth visiting, even if you’re not a big fan of history or architecture.

The Mystery Castle

Mystery Castle is a one-of-a-kind stone castle built by a father for his princess that is listed on the Arizona Historical Register and has won the Pride of Phoenix Award.

The native stone castle was built by Boyce Gully in 1945 for his daughter. It features thirteen fireplaces, 18 rooms, parapets, nooks, and crannies, as well as a substantial collection of southwest antiques. After settling in, the daughter started giving tours of the house until she died in 2010.

Today, Mystery Castle is open for tours from October to May and has received accolades from numerous publications, including Warner Brothers, Life Magazine, The New York Times, and The National Inquirer.

The Apache Trail through the Superstition Mountains

The Superstition Mountains are traversed via the 40-mile-long, beautiful Apache Trail.

The Apache Trail is mostly unpaved, covered in cacti, and has many deep reservoirs. The Apache Indians who once traveled the path inspired the name of this ancient road.

Today, lots of people travel to Arizona to climb this beautiful trail. It is crucial to travel with a guide; therefore, we advise looking into this Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Day Trip tour.

The guided trip will take visitors on an educational and entertaining adventure through the desert, the mountains, and then over Canyon Lake by Dolly Steamboat.

Take a Day Trip to Sedona

Embarking on a solo day trip to Sedona was a transformative experience. The scenic drive unfolded like a canvas of red rock masterpieces, leaving me in awe of nature’s artistry.

In Sedona, I explored charming Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village and hiked the Cathedral Rock Trail, feeling the energy of the vortex sites. As a solo traveler, the solitude amidst such natural beauty was both introspective and invigorating, making this day trip an unforgettable journey into Arizona’s soul-stirring landscapes.

Attend a Sports Game

Attending a Phoenix Suns basketball game as a solo traveler was a surprisingly social adventure. The camaraderie among fans created an electric atmosphere, and striking up conversations with fellow enthusiasts enhanced the experience.

The cheers, the intensity of the game, and the shared passion for sports made it a memorable outing. As a solo attendee, I felt a sense of belonging in the collective spirit of the crowd, turning a sports event into a solo adventure filled with camaraderie.

Relax at a Resort Pool

Lounging solo by a resort pool in Phoenix became a haven of tranquility and self-indulgence. With a day pass, I had access to a luxurious oasis, complete with spa amenities and poolside service.

The freedom to unwind at my own pace, soak up the sun, and take refreshing dips created a perfect balance of solitude and pampering. As a solo traveler, this poolside retreat offered a peaceful escape, allowing me to recharge amidst sophisticated surroundings.

Check out my post on the best resorts and waterparks in Phoenix, Arizona

Indulge in Culinary Adventures

Phoenix’s culinary scene unfolded as a gastronomic journey for this solo traveler. Exploring local Southwestern flavors, food trucks, and trendy eateries became a solo adventure in culinary diversity.

I savored each bite at my own pace, discovering hidden gems and engaging with the city’s food culture. Joining a food tour introduced me to passionate chefs and fellow food enthusiasts, turning my solo culinary exploration into a social and flavorful experience.

Attend a Yoga Class or Wellness Retreat

Participating in a solo yoga class and wellness retreat in Phoenix was a soul-soothing escape. Whether in a serene studio or amidst nature, the mindfulness journey offered moments of self-discovery.

As a solo participant, I connected with like-minded individuals, finding solace in the shared pursuit of well-being. The retreat provided a space for introspection, rejuvenation, and personal growth, making it a cherished chapter in my solo travels through Phoenix.

Nicole LaBarge

Nicole is a travel expert who has been traveling to the American Southwest since 1992. There is so much to see and do in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and California. I spend part of the year in Phoenix and travel around the area visiting all the best places and going on the best hikes. Check out my detailed destination guides, the best hiking in each state guides, and the travel gear you need for your next trip.

The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In New Jersey

Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.

More by this Author

It isn’t hard to find fun in New Jersey. Most of the time, fun just happens to find you. There’s always something going on here, someplace new to see. If you’re seeking adventure, you’re in the right state. And, perhaps best of all, you can travel almost anywhere within a day. Here are some of the best NJ day trips you can take. You may be familiar with several of these places but we’re sure you’ll discover something new next time you’re searching for day trips near you in New Jersey.

The Most Charming College Town In New Jersey Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

The Train Ride Through The New Jersey Countryside That Shows Off Fall Foliage

This Pumpkin Patch And Bakery With Seasonal Goodies Are The Perfect Pair For A Fall Day Trip In New Jersey

This list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to New Jersey day trip ideas – what’s your favorite? Share your best NJ day trips with a comment.

For more information on Wildwood’s Breakfast in the Sky (which we highly recommend), check out our previous article showing you how you can enjoy breakfast in the sky on this beachfront Ferris wheel along the Jersey Shore. The views are phenomenal!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

More fun day trips in new jersey.

What are the best day trips in New Jersey?

Some of the best day trips in New Jersey include:

Adventure Aquarium , Camden, NJ
Silverball Museum Arcade, Asbury Park, NJ
Sahara Sam's , West Berlin, NJ

The best day trips in New Jersey show off a beautiful side of the state! If you're looking for road trip inspiration, check out our list of the coolest road trips in the state. Grab the road trip snacks and buckle up!

Which must-visit places in New Jersey should be on my hiking bucket list?

Some must-visit places for your hiking bucket list include:

The Red Dot Trail
Iron Works Hill Park
Norvin Green State Forest

There are a few trails in New Jersey that take you to must-visit places. The Red Dot Trail up Mount Tammany showcases an iconic Garden State view. Hiking around the battlefields - Washington's Crossing, Monmouth Battlefield, Princeton Battlefield, and even Iron Works Hill Park - will bring you into the footsteps of the Founding Fathers. If you love waterfalls, the Otter Hole area of Norvin Green State Forest is an often overlooked place to take in natural beauty.

Are there any unique attractions in New Jersey?

Some unique attractions in New Jersey include:

Storybook Land

There are plenty of one-of-a-kind attractions in New Jersey. Grounds for Sculpture and Rutgers Gardens offer botanical art unlike anywhere else. Lucy the Elephant , in Margate, is a beloved member of our state. Storybook Land is an underrated theme park for children, and Diggerland opened up recently to give kids a true construction-site experience! Each of these rare family favorites that are sure to leave an impact on anyone who visits.

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Solo Travel

31 Fun Things to do Alone in Miami (Ideal for Solo Travelers!)

Posted by by Elle-Rose
Updated: September 20, 2023
11 minute read

Are you looking for the best things to do alone in Miami? If so, here are our top suggestions for solo travelers!

Miami is a great city for solo travelers, and there are so many awesome choices for solo travelers, and for lots of different budgets and interests too.

If you’re a solo traveler visiting Miami soon, you might be looking for a list of fun things to do alone in Miami!

From beach days and incredible architecture to food tours and street art – this is a city that has it all.

So, let’s get into our list of fun things to do in Miami, flying solo!

Visit South Beach

To kick off our list of the best things to do alone in Miami – we have South Beach !

You’re probably not surprised to see this on the list, as visiting this neighborhood is one of the most popular things to do in the area.

Boasting glitzy night spots, incredible beaches, and amazing Art Deco hotels, you can spend hours exploring this area and drinking in the local culture.

While you’re here, don’t miss Ocean Drive, the Historic District, and the Miami Boardwalk!

Go to the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for relaxing things to do alone in Miami, consider the search over with the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden.

This place is tucked away in Coral Gables which is extremely close to downtown Miami.

Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of exotic plants, butterfly gardens, and hummingbird enclosures that let solo travelers experience the best of Florida’s beauty.

So, take a walk on the wild side and add this to your itinerary!

Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, we have the ever-popular Vizcaya Museum and Gardens .

It’s an incredible villa on Biscayne Bay that’s owned by businessman James Deering, and it’s enormous.

While you’re here, stroll through the 10-acre gardens, walk along the mangrove shoreline, and explore the incredible Italianate architecture that will thrust you back in time.

Trust us when we say it’s fabulous and is totally one of the best things to check out solo in Miami.

Walk around the Design District

When we first visited the Design District , we just knew that it had to be on our list of things to do alone in Miami.

Why, you ask? Well, it just allows you to explore some seriously cool shops while indulging your artistic side.

And really, what more could you want?! This district is a creative neighborhood and popular shopping destination that’s known for its amazing architecture, fashion-forward luxury stores, and public art displays.

You’ll need a couple of hours to explore this spot in its entirety. So, leave plenty of time if you add it to your trip.

Take in the Murals at Wynwood Walls

Oh man, we seriously couldn’t write a list of things to do alone in Miami without mentioning the iconic Wynwood Walls .

It’s an incredible outdoor museum of murals (or urban graffiti!) on NW 26 th Street that showcases the work of some of the world’s greatest street artists.

There’s a small cost to enter the museum part of Wynwood Walls (which we think is totally worth it) but then you’re also free to explore the local shops and cafes nearby afterwards.

Visit Espanola Way

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s Espanola Way . This is a great spot for dining solo – so we wanted to include it on our list!

Espanola Way is located in South Beach, and it’s a lovely cobbled street full of lovely restaurants and cafes.

In the evening Espanola has a lovely bustling atmosphere, and it’s a great place to sit and enjoy some food and people-watching!

Take in the art-deco architecture at Miami Beach

Our next suggestion is an obvious one. But you obviously need to make time for checking out the art deco buildings in Miami Beach.

The buildings here are unlike any others in the USA, and they’re absolutely captivating!

We recommend taking an early morning stroll along the beach promenade, to avoid the crowds.

Enjoy some breakfast at one of the beach-side cafes, and take your camera to snap lots of photos!

Visit the Time Out Market, Miami

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s visiting Time Out Market .

This is an indoor food hall in Miami Beach, home to lots of delicious local food vendors. You can try all kinds of food here, and it’s pretty reasonably priced too.

I also loved the decor and vibe when I ate here. It was laid back, friendly and I didn’t feel like I ‘stuck out’ as a solo traveler.

There’s plenty of seating and great choice, and it’s just a lovely place for solo travelers to grab a bite to eat.

Grab breakfast at The Carlton Room

Next on our list of amazing activities for solo travelers, we have breakfast at The Carlton Room !

This place is tucked away inside The Betsy Hotel, and it’s perfect for a relaxing cup of coffee and a bumper breakfast before hitting the city’s major attractions.

It’s incredibly mellow in here, which also makes it one of the best things to do alone in Miami if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of this area.

Check out Dolphin Mall

Next up, it’s shopping! More specifically – outlet shopping!

Although you may be all shopped out after visiting Showfields, you might want to treat yourself by visiting Dolphin Mall for some seriously good bargains.

Dolphin Mall is Miami’s largest shopping outlet, and it’s one of our favorite things to do alone in Miami if you’re a veritable shopaholic.

It’s home to incredible designer brands and classic retail goodies that are heavily discounted.

If you get hungry at any point, you can head to one of the many dining spots (including the amazing Metropol Puerto Rican and Cuban Restaurant !) to refuel.

Read more about visiting Florida: 16 fun things to do in Siesta Key, Florida

Visit Little Havana

There’s so much to love about Little Havana, and it certainly deserves a spot on our list of things to do alone in Miami.

This charming neighborhood is packed with amazing Latin American art galleries, shops that sell Cuban cigars, authentic restaurants, and a handful of gorgeous coffee shops that sell wonderful Cafecitos (tiny Cuban coffees!).

Whether you spend most of your time walking Calle Ocho or stuffing your face with Cuban cuisine, you won’t be disappointed if you make time for this on your solo trip to Miami.

We actually really recommend taking a guided tour of Little Havana as a solo traveler – as it’s a great way to meet people, and learn loads! We really recommend this tour (click here to book tickets).

Take the open-top bus tour!

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s taking the classic open-top bus tour!

This is actually one of the best solo activities in the city, because it’s so easy, and you get to see so much of the city.

Sure, an open-top bus tour may seem a little touristy for some, but we love it, especially if you only have limited time in the city.

Click here to book tickets!

Watch the sunset

Our next idea for things to do alone in Miami, is to admire the sunset. Sunsets don’t have to just be for couples in love!

We really love finding a rooftop bar, or a great spot on the beach, and just enjoying those gorgeous views and city vistas.

It’s a great choice for spending time solo in the city, and something relaxing and peaceful too.

Book yourself a pool day

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s booking yourself a pool day!

If your hotel has a pool, then you’re pretty sorted already for this suggestion, just take your bathing suit to the pool and enjoy!

If you’re stopping in an AirBnB though, or in a hotel without a pool, it’s always possible to pay a one-off fee to hotels for a pool day pass!

Usually hotels will charge a flat-fee for pool use, and you can stay there all day whilst it’s open to guests.

Take a dip in the Venetian Pool, Coral Gables

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s taking a dip in the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables !

This little slice of heaven is located just outside of Miami city center, in the neighborhood of Coral Gables, and it’s such a gorgeous place to visit, especially for solo travelers.

It’s a great choice, but can get a little busy in school holidays! Just so you know!

Take a ‘celebrity homes’ boat tour

Our next suggestion for things to do alone in Miami, is to take a celebrity home boat tour. These are so much fun, and you get to see some astounding properties along the coastline of Miami.

If you didn’t know, some of the world’s most famous names have homes in Miami, off on private islands and coastline.

You can take tours along this coastline, to get glimpses of these famous homes and incredible structures! We really recommend it!

You can book tickets here!

Mingle with the animals at Zoo Miami

If you’re on the hunt for fantastic things to do alone in Miami that will allow you to embrace your wild side (literally!), then you’ll love Zoo Miami .

Not only is this spot committed to supporting global wildlife initiatives, but the tickets are affordable, the animals are well cared for, and it always feels like a successful day out.

It’s one of the most foolproof Miami activities, if you have a few hours to spare!

You can book advance tickets by clicking here!

Spot crocs at the Everglades

A visit to the Everglades is a must if you’re in Florida, and it’s relatively easy to get here from Miami.

Several incredible tours run from Miami, but this is the one we recommend .

You aren’t always guaranteed to spot crocs, but this is one of the things to do alone in Miami (with a tour guide, of course!) that will have you reconnecting with nature in a flash.

And maybe inject you with a little bit of adrenaline too.

Click here to book advance tickets!

Rent a jetski

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s renting a jetski! You can rent a jetski easily through several companies in the city!

Once you’ve learned the ropes, it’s such a fun activity to enjoy alone, and you really to get to see the city from a totally different perspective!

Click here to rent a jetski in Miami with the company we recommend.

Learn something new at the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

You may not be a total science geek, but you’ll want to add the Philip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to your list of things to do alone in Miami.

It’s an extremely hands-on spot that allows you to learn about the universe, watch an amazing planetarium show, or check out the stunning urban garden that’s perched on the rooftop.

Whatever you choose to do here, this museum continues to be one of the best tourist spots in the city.

Get your kayak on in Virginia Keys

If you’ve always wanted to hit the water on a kayak, then you’re going to love the next spot on our list of things to do alone in Miami.

Yup – it’s kayaking in Virginia Keys! This spot is just 15 minutes from downtown Miami and is incredibly easy to find.

Better yet, it’s bursting with unique wildlife (though you should watch out for the jellyfish!) that you may not spot anywhere else.

Although there are a couple of kayaking tours around Miami, we recommend renting a kayak from VKOC and hitting the water with all the gear you’ll need.

Read more about visiting Florida: Top 10 places to swim with dolphins in Florida

Take a day trip to Key West

Next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s taking a day trip to Key West . If you’ve never been to Key West before, you’ve going to adore it.

It’s a beautiful beachy town, surrounded by stunning palm trees, amazing cafes and lovely little independent stores too.

A day trip is a great idea for sampling the beauty of Key West , and it truly feels like a completely different world to the city center.

It’s a stunning idea for summertime, or if you fancy some sunshine in the winter months too!

You can book tickets for a guided day trip here!

Go to the HistoryMiami Museum

Calling all history buffs! You’ll want to make sure you have your pens ready for the next place on our list!

Yup – it’s HistoryMiami (otherwise known as the amazing museum in Miami that tells the riveting stories of the city’s communities and individuals!).

It boasts a permanent collection of exhibits along with a great guided tour. But if you’re here at the right time, you might catch one of their temporary fixtures!

Check out one of the many bars

This incredible city is known for its incredible nightlife, and that’s why we had to include a spot of barhopping on our list!

From the vibrant local bars like Gramps on NW 24 th Street to the bustling old-school bars like Lost Boy , there are so many places that you can explore in this eclectic city.

Although you’ll need to keep your wits about you when the sun goes down, going bar hopping is still one of our favorite things to do alone in Miami.

Just remember to stay safe and have a plan to get back to your hotel.

Read more about visiting Florida: 22 things to do in Port St Lucie, Florida

Take a helicopter ride

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Miami, it’s taking a helicopter tour over the city!

Now this isn’t for everyone’s budget (it’s pretty expensive!) but if you’re in the city, and you’ve got some disposable cash – then seeing the city from the air is literally breathtaking.

A helicopter over Miami is absolutely amazing, and it’s something you won’t forget anytime soon.

You can book helicopter tickets by clicking here!

Grab a delicious donut at The Salty Donut

We’re always on the hunt for local treats wherever we go, so we just had to include The Salty Donut on our list of things to do alone in Miami.

The filled donuts here are seriously impressive, and you’ll be able to chow down on everything from filled jam delights to savory donuts.

If you’re visiting in the morning, we suggest grabbing a strong cup of Joe and heading over to the Wynwood Walls!

Read more about visiting Florida: Top 10 adults-only resorts in Florida

Learn how to make cigars

If you’re into Cuban culture, then Miami is a great place to learn more. Little Havana especially, has some incredible historic and cultural demonstrations.

For example, next on our list of things to do alone in Miami, is to watch a cigar-making demonstration, or visit one of the many cigar shops.

Go on a Duck Tour

If you’re looking for something touristy and cheesy, you should add a classic Duck Tour to your list.

You may think it’s a bit of a tourist trap, but the South Beach Duck Tours are genuinely great and will take you through the best of Biscayne Bay.

The 90-minute tour is fully narrated, so you’ll pass by attractions and historical hotspots while getting a detailed rundown of each spot’s importance.

It’s easy to see why it’s one of the best things to do in Miami, as the value-for-money is through the roof! Click here to book advance tickets.

Check out Showfields Mall

If you’re planning to shop ‘til you drop while you’re in Florida, then you’ll love the next spot on our list of things to do alone in Miami.

Showfields Mall is among the most impressive shopping areas in Miami and is home to an incredible range of retail stores.

Everything is displayed in a cool and kitsch way, allowing you to go around snapping pictures for your Instagram story (which we totally recommend doing!).

Walk through Rolling Oaks Park

Rolling Oaks Park is one of our all-time favorite things to do alone in Miami, as it lets you take stock, stretch your legs, and appreciate the city’s natural beauty.

The true Miami trifecta, if you will!

There are several walking trails around here and it’s a wonderful place for a picnic or just lounging around with a book for a couple of hours.

Go to the Perez Art Museum

To round off our list of incredible things to do alone in Miami, we have the Perez Art Museum!

It’s the place to be in the city if you want to see next-level paintings and sculptures.

Believe it or not, it boasts over 2000 unique pieces of art, making it one of the larger museums in the area.

The museum is dedicated to displaying 20 th and 21 st -century pieces, so it’s a wonderful place to check out if you’re a fan of contemporary art.

We hope this list of things to do solo in Miami has given you loads of ideas!

There are so many things to do alone in Miami, you’re going to have a great time as a solo traveler!

Read more about Miami: Miami weather in December, everything you need to know!

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

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Self Care, Serenity, and Solitude: 16 Best Solo Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

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Self Care, Serenity, and Solitude: 16 Best Solo Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

What Is a Solo Wellness Retreat?

Why go on a wellness retreat solo, 1. art of living retreat center (north carolina) — best solo ayurvedic wellness retreat, 2. castle hot springs (arizona) — best luxury solo wellness retreat, 3. honor’s haven retreat (new york) — best affordable solo wellness retreat, 4. lake austin spa retreat (texas) — best solo lake wellness retreat, 5. lumeria maui (hawaii) — best solo hawaiian wellness retreat, 6. menla resort (new york) — best solo spiritual retreat, 7. miraval arizona resort & spa — best solo spa retreat, 8. red mountain resort (utah) — best solo wellness retreat in the wilderness, 9. the resort at paws up (montana) — best pet-friendly solo retreat, 10. retreat in the pines (texas) — best solo wellness retreat for women, 11. retreat ranch (texas) — best solo wellness retreat with horses, 12. road scholar (various u.s. locations) — best solo wellness retreat for 50+, 13. rock springs retreat center (tennessee) — best solo wellness retreat for weight loss, 14. sewall house (maine) — best solo yoga retreat, 15. socal wellness retreat (california) — best solo digital detox retreat, 16. vita vie retreat (florida) — best solo wellness retreat for fitness, final thoughts.

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With both wellness travel and solo travel on the rise , it’s no surprise that solo wellness retreats are growing in popularity. Traveling alone in a way that benefits your physical and mental health is easy — with no one else in tow, you’re able to fully focus on yourself and your needs and travel exactly how you like. This article explains what a solo wellness retreat is, why you should consider going on one, and some of the best wellness retreats for solo travelers in the U.S.

A solo retreat is a trip where you travel alone and stay somewhere or do activities that offer positive benefits for your physical or emotional health . Wellness solo retreats can be specific resorts that offer retreats or wellness-focused activities. Activities can include fitness, yoga, meditation, self-discovery workshops, breathwork, spa treatments, or outdoor experiences. Most retreats don’t have an official rule that you have to be alone, but all of the retreats on our list are especially welcoming or cater to solo travelers.

Going on a wellness retreat alone means that you can interpret and manifest wellness in whatever way you’d like . If wellness means hiking in the wilderness to you, your solo retreat can give you time to hike as much as you’d like and focus on your specific wellness needs without interruption.

Taking time to focus on yourself also allows for self-care in whatever way best serves you while you travel exactly how you like. When everything is organized your way, and you aren’t cutting your needs short to meet others’ needs, then relaxation, rejuvenation, and even healing can result. Solo wellness travel can increase your self-awareness and help you set goals for the future, encourage personal growth, improve confidence, and boost independence. It may also invigorate you to challenge yourself or try new things in a judgment-free space.

Interested in wellness travel or solo travel? Read up on Upgraded Points’ wellness travel resources:

Wellness Vacations: Hype or Healing? [Trends, Benefits, Destinations]

Boost Your Wellbeing: The Complete Guide to Wellness Retreats

The Best U.S. Wellness Retreats: Escapes for the Mind, Body & Soul

The World’s Best Business Class Seats for Solo Travelers

The 16 Best Solo Retreats in the U.S.

Whether you’re in the market for a retreat getaway for fitness, bonding with horses, bringing your pet along with you, relaxing all day in the spa, or doing a digital detox, here are the best solo wellness retreats in the U.S.

If you’re looking for a wellness getaway but not sure where to start, the Art of Living Retreat Center offers options for serious wellness fans, such as silent retreats or intense detox programs. It also has options for newbies, such as creativity escapes or rejuvenating weekends.

Art of Living is located along the Blue Ridge Mountains amid hundreds of acres of verdant forest — a setting that makes healthy living feel easy. While the center also does women-centered, male-catered, and even mother daughter-retreats, Art of Living also offers a few retreats specifically geared towards solo travelers, such as the Ayurveda Solo Escape, which melds Ayurveda treatments with yoga and meditation so you can discover your best and healthiest self and learn more about ayurvedic concepts like doshas, which are body types, and how to best nurture and heal your dosha .

Ayurveda Solo Escapes include 2 nights of accommodation, 3 meals per day, 3 ayurvedic treatments per person, workshops, meditation and yoga classes, and 1 lifestyle Ayurvedic consultation. Rates start at $1,445.

If sharing a cabin or glamping just isn’t right for you, you can focus on yourself and your wellness needs in the lap of luxury at Castle Hot Springs . The resort is built around a collection of natural hot springs that refresh and revive guests with their unique geothermal properties .

Although you can stay at the resort in a non-traditional retreat setting, Castle Hot Springs offers a 3-day Yoga Retreat, which focuses on Sutras and Satsang, Yin, and Hatha yoga, plus mantras and meditation. Don’t worry; the retreat offers plenty of free time to enjoy the hot springs, spa treatments, and other resort activities such as guided hiking or archery.

Retreat rates include accommodation, meals, yoga, and activities, starting at $2,050 in a Sky View Cabin featuring a terrace with a view and telescope or $2,500 in a Spring Bungalow featuring a private, custom Sonoma stone soaking tub.

Designed especially with solo travelers in mind, weekend wellness getaways at Honor’s Haven Retreat mean that you can focus on yourself for just a short getaway, making it an easy and affordable way to indulge in a little self-care. This eco-friendly resort is optimal for solo travelers who want to head out on their own but also connect with other like-minded travelers during workshops and classes .

Visitors can roam the onsite herb garden, walk along the lake, eat healthy meals, lounge in the indoor pool, outdoor pool, and sauna, and use the tennis courts or fitness center. Daily classes include energy yoga, healing qigong, guided meditations, and much more. Meanwhile, guestrooms offer lake, mountain, or garden views.

Rates inclusive of accommodation, wellness classes, guided nature walks, and 2 meals per day start at $280 per night.

Since most wellness retreats may not be affiliated with a hotel loyalty program, it’s best to charge your retreat on a credit card that offers bonus points on travel purchases, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® or Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , which offer 3x points or 2x points spent on travel, respectively.

Lake Austin Spa Retreat is one of our all-around favorite U.S. retreats, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends. The adults-only resort feels tranquil and intimate, with just 40 rooms. Its peaceful setting on Lake Austin makes it the ideal destination for solo reflection, wellness, and fitness , thanks to daily hikes, yoga, meditation, and workout classes. You can also participate in lake activities and cooking classes and choose from a variety of spa treatments.

Solo travelers should opt for the Fresh Start package , which starts from 2 nights and includes a nightly spa and experience credit for $100, a custom journal, meals, snacks, daily group activities and classes, and access to spa facilities, including steam rooms, gardens, pools, and relaxation areas.

Rates start around $775 per night for single occupancy.

Flying in and out of Austin? Here’s a full list of all the airport lounges at AUS and the coveted Chase Sapphire Terrace .

Lumeria Maui offers different retreat options, from Healing the Hustle to Just Breathe to Fall Renewal. But solo travelers may be best served by just staying however many nights they’d like and participating in daily activities. Choose options such as yoga and alignment classes, ukelele workshops, sound baths, energy healing, and so much more. Spa treatments and massages also feel decidedly Hawaiian, from lomi lomi massages to Pohaku (traditional Hawaiian hot stones) sessions.

This beautiful Hawaiian property feels intimate and unique, with just 24 guestrooms that come with picturesque garden or ocean views. The resort and spa features treatments and classes such as bodywork, healing art and nature therapies, daily activities, plus fitness, yoga, and meditation options.

Nightly rates start at $479 per night and include accommodation and daily activities.

Escape to the Catskills to clear your mind at Menla , a Tibetan-inspired resort and retreat center. Set amid a verdant woodland on a 330-acre natural reserve, you’ll be encouraged to get in touch with your inner self and improve your mental and emotional health during retreats such as Autumnal Equinox Gatherings, Sound Healing and Hiking Retreats, Nurture Nature Experiences, and Mindful Living Immersions.

Rooms and suites are simple, luminous, and comfortable, and budget retreat-goers can opt for individual cabin rooms. The resort also features a 4,000-square-Dewa spa specializing in herbal bath therapies and ancient healing treatments . Menla’s cuisine is mostly plant-based and designed around locally-sourced ingredients, many of which come from the on-site organic gardens.

Retreat rates vary in price and inclusion, but you can probably expect to spend a minimum of $1,000 on a 3-night retreat, inclusive of meals, accommodation, and retreat activities.

If you want to be pampered among a stunning landscape of cacti and the Sonoran sun, Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is a resort home to the Life in Balance Spa, which offers a unique mixture of rejuvenating treatments blending therapies from Tibet, India, Europe, and China .

Choose from treatments such as Chi Nei Tsang (a Taoist digestion therapy), intuitive massage, desert-infused scrubs and wraps, and so much more. Plus, the spa facility offers access to saunas, serenity pools, steam rooms, and a quiet room.

A retreat can be organized however you’d like — it’s really just choosing to stay for however many nights you want. We recommend choosing the unlimited package, which includes accommodation, meals, wellness activities (everything from beekeeping to chakra balancing to equine therapy and drum circles), and a $175 credit to use however you’d like — opt for the spa. Rates for single occupancy start around $800 per night or 45,000 World of Hyatt points .

Looking for wellness using points? Miraval is one of the few retreats on this list where you can stay using points. To earn more Hyatt points , apply for a credit card such as The World of Hyatt Credit Card . Or, earn points that can transfer to the World of Hyatt program using a card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® . Miraval also has its very own loyalty program if you think you’ll make more frequent visits: Miraval Authentic Circle . And if you’re itching to check out Miraval but live on the East Coast, consider visiting Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa instead.

Greater Zion is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone who wants to relax among stunning desert and canyon scenery. Red Mountain Resort offers regular resort stays, but we love the Essential Retreat Package, a 3-night stay offering 3 healthy meals, fitness classes, discovery activities, and a choice of accommodation.

Fitness and discovery activities include experiences such as guided hiking and rock climbing in national parks nearby , sound baths, yoga, and more. Activities such as shamanic energy healing, guided labyrinth experiences, Reiki, and others come at an additional cost. The resort’s Sagestone Spa offers unique, locally-inspired treatments, such as the adobe lavender hydrating cocoon skincare treatment and a turquoise sage salt scrub.

Rates for the retreat start at about $1,300 per stay, depending on room selection, which ranges from desert oasis king rooms to luxury villa suites.

If you want to bring Fido along with you on your next wellness retreat, head to The Resort at Paws Up in Montana, set on thousands of wild acres of mountains, badlands, and prairie. Call it a wellness retreat, glamping, or a luxury hotel stay — but the important thing is that Paws Up offers your beloved pet some pretty awesome amenities , so it’ll be a wellness experience for everyone. Your prized pup will get a special dog bed, dish, locally-made treats, a tennis ball, and a special welcome card from the owner’s dog, Coco.

Paws Up has many all-inclusive packages ideal for a solo wellness getaway. From winter wellness inclusives to foodie-centric chef retreats, there’s a getaway perfect for you. Activities include horseback riding, wilderness workshops, stargazing, fly fishing, hiking, cattle drives, ice skating, and so much more.

Cabin rates start at $2,596 per night — expect a 2-night minimum stay in many cases. Many homes come with kitchens and laundry machines; you can participate in group activities or hole away for some alone time. However, pets cost an additional $50 per night and aren’t allowed in restaurants or tented accommodations, among other pet-related rules .

If you’re a woman looking for healing, connection, and support, consider visiting Retreat in the Pines in East Texas. The center has a number of retreats to choose from, with themes such as Mindfulness and Meditation, Grounding and Growth, Strength and Healing Yoga, Inner Goddess, and many more. Solo travelers may enjoy the Book Lovers retreat, where you read all your favorite books on your own but are surrounded by other women reading . Another favorite is the Love Yourself retreat, which includes a mini private healing session as well as group activities.

Although each type of retreat has its own itinerary, you can expect to see activities such as yoga, meditation, fireside chats, gardening, stargazing, mandala making, nature walks, affirmations, and more.

Most retreats are 1 weekend long and include meals, activities, and shared accommodation in a cozy cabin. Weekend rates range from $799 to $1,299, depending on the type of retreat.

Read our guide on the best wellness retreats for women for further ideas.

While some other wellness options on this list offer equine activities (such as Miraval and Paws Up), a horse-centric retreat may be the key to improving your wellness. Retreat Ranch ‘s Yoga & Horse Retreat touts working alongside these gentle giants, noting they can improve connection and have restorative benefits .

If you’ve never ridden a horse or done a yoga pose, no problem. The retreat caters to beginners as well as more advanced riders and yogis, too. This particular retreat includes 3 nights of accommodation, daily yoga, meditation, a horse interaction workshop, meals, and a sound bath. Accommodation comes in the form of vintage trailers, cabins, luxury yurts, or affordable bunk rooms.

Rates start at $2,199 for the 3-night retreat (bunk rooms start at $1,299). Horses not for you? This center also runs other retreats, such as Mother/Daughter, Fall Eclipse, Yoga & Wine, and many others.

Retreats aren’t just for 20-somethings looking to “find themselves” or Instagram influencers wanting to be captured in the perfect upside-down yoga pose. So many retreats around the U.S. welcome mature travelers, and if you’re hoping to travel solo alongside like-minded 50+ wellness enthusiasts, consider a Road Scholar retreat .

Road Scholar hosts retreats in more than 40 different locations around the U.S. Retreats begin with optional morning stretching and exercise, followed by community meet-ups, live performances and events, and farm-to-table meals. Some examples are a rustic lodge in Yosemite, perfect for gardening and nature enthusiasts, an arts training center in California, best for cultural events and plenty of sunshine, and island retreats in Virginia geared toward birders.

Retreats usually range from 5 to 7 days and are inclusive of accommodation, meals, and activities. While prices vary based on retreat, they usually run between $1,000 and $2,000, and solo travelers can get rooms to themselves for a supplement of $200 or even less.

If you’re a senior traveling solo, Upgraded Points has resources for you. Read our posts on travel and discounts for seniors , the best credit cards for seniors and retirees , and the best travel insurance options for seniors .

If you’re hoping to reclaim your overall health, improve your body image, or have higher energy levels, the Rock Springs Fit Farm Weight Loss retreat at Rock Springs Retreat Center can encourage building muscle, losing weight, and having a healthier relationship with both food and your own body .

Weight loss retreat classes include stretching, mobility, cardio, boxing, strength training, wellness education, nutrition seminars, yoga, and spinning, plus activities such as paddle boating, team sports, and axe throwing. The property also has a library, spa, pool, and firepit on its nearly 200 acres of rolling Tennessee hills.

Retreats include accommodation, fitness classes, cooking classes, meals, and other wellness activities. There’s a 2-week minimum stay, and single occupancy rates start at $3,595 per week. Discounts are available for longer stays.

To finesse your yoga skills amid a picturesque New England landscape, head to Sewall House in Maine, where you can customize your own retreat based on your yoga expertise level and personal needs. It’s also ideal for solo travelers on the hunt for personal healing, sober travel, and/or addiction recovery , as it’s 100% alcohol- and drug-free.

A typical day at Sewall starts with coffee or tea, an optional silent meditation, and either restorative, Hatha, or vigorous Ashtanga yoga class. Before and after an included vegetarian lunch, you’ll have free time to journal, cycle, hike, or whatever you’d like among the beautiful grounds nearby Mattawamkeag and Pleasant Lakes. After more yoga, enjoy a vegetarian dinner and a soak in the Jacuzzi or sauna before returning to your private bedroom (and bathroom) for rest.

Rates at the historical house start at $399 per night and include accommodation, 3 vegetarian meals per day, and yoga/meditation classes.

Solo travelers who really need a break from social media, work, or just mindlessly scrolling their phones should consider SoCal Wellness Retreat in California. The retreat center offers digital detox retreats as well as retreats specifically catered to singles .

The digital detox retreat consists of a 4-day adventure that offers workshops and classes on tummo breathwork, meditation, stretching, and group connection. The center is a stunning mansion set upon 5 acres of olive groves and wooded areas, the ideal place to leave screens behind and fully immerse yourself in the serene surroundings.

With many accommodation options to choose from, travelers can stay in master suites, private rooms with private bathrooms, or, for those on a budget, shared dorm rooms. A 4-day retreat starts at $997 and runs up to $2,497, depending on your room type.

If you’re ready to get fit, you may as well do so on the golden sands of Delray Beach beneath the Florida sunshine. Vita Vie Retreat ‘s Vita Wellness Camp focuses on 4 health pillars: fitness, nutrition, stress management, and sleep , which are all manifested through beach workouts, toning, strengthening, flexibility, and recovery classes.

Retreat guests stay at the Seagate Hotel & Spa on a private beach with 2 pools and a spa. Let your body recover from all the intensity in guestrooms, complete with designer furnishings, Nespresso machines, Egyptian cotton linens, and private balconies.

A 6-night retreat inclusive of accommodation, 4.5 to 5 hours of fitness per day, 1 spa treatment, a $60 per night food and beverage credit, and a Vita Fit Guide and retreat journal starts at $4,190. You can also customize your own private retreat (prices upon request).

Wellness retreats are perfect for solo travelers. With catered activities and both group and private classes, you’ll never feel lonely. But you’ll still have plenty of alone time to reflect and relax.

And a solo wellness retreat doesn’t have to be far-flung. You can easily visit one of the wellness retreats in the U.S. for your next solo dose of rejuvenation.

The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of solo retreats.

Solo retreats offer a myriad of benefits. Not only can they build self-confidence, but they also inspire self-care, relaxation, empowerment, and personal growth. Taking the time to focus on yourself is important and can increase self-awareness. Plus, you might make new, like-minded friends during a retreat.

How do I plan a solo wellness retreat?

Plan a solo wellness retreat by first deciding what you want to get out of the retreat. Luxury spa relaxation, self-discovery, or improving fitness are all very different goals, so you want to figure out your needs to select a retreat that will be the right fit. Then, decide exactly where you want to go and what kind of nature, beach, or weather you’d like to experience during a retreat.

Why take a solo retreat?

Solo retreats are ideal for anyone who wants to organize a wellness escape that’s exactly to their liking. When you don’t have to consider anyone else’s needs, you can focus on your own. Solo wellness retreats can improve both your physical and mental health.

How do I get the most out of my wellness retreat?

Get the most out of a wellness retreat by leaving expectations at home and fully immersing yourself in the experience. Be open and allow yourself to disconnect from digital devices, work, and anything holding you back from living in the present moment.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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21 Terrific Day Trips in Texas

Long vacations and shorter weekend trips are an amazing way to unwind and refresh your life before getting back into the demand of everyday life–but don’t forget to consider delightful day trips in Texas as well.

Although Texas day trips don’t leave you as long to explore, they can serve to give you intermittent breaks from busy work life and recharge your system.

Given the enormous breadth of Texas, there is no shortage of places to visit for a short adventure.

group of bison in caprock canyons state park texas

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How We Organized These Day Trips in Texas

Of course, the distance that one must travel from one side of the state of Texas to the other doesn’t give us the option of simply listing the great day trips Texas has to offer.

With that in mind, we’ve broken down our outings by the region of the state you’ll start from.

We have divided the areas into West Texas , South Texas , Central Texas , North Texas and given special recognition to the Panhandle region.

So, take a seat and follow along as we make our way through the best day trips in Texas.

kate storm and ranger storm in a bluebonnet field in ennis texas

The Best North Texas Day Trips

Six flags over texas – arlington.

Two hundred acres of fun rides and entertainment are what Six Flags over Texas offer to those who venture into the park.

Servicing the North Texas area for 60 years, Six Flags Over Texas is a must-visit for a full day of exciting roller coasters, themed shows, and sunshine.

Blue iron roller coaster loop as seen looking up with a yellow train car on it

First Monday Trade Days, Canton

Held on the first Monday of each month and having the title as the largest flea market in the world, the legendary Texas swap meet is one of the most popular venues to visit while in North Texas.

While it is perfect for a day trip, the market is large enough to take up several days to see all it has to offer.

Take plenty of spending money and room in your car to carry home all of those must-have items you can’t live without.

3 antique gramophones sitting on a wooden desk--you'll want to be prepared to haul purchases like this home from the best texas flea markets

Lake Texoma

This lake is so large that they had to name it after two different states!

Lake Texoma is a popular destination in North Texas or Southern Oklahoma, depending on how you look at it.

This lake not only makes for a great outdoor adventure but is the center of entertainment in the area as well.

The shores around Lake Texoma also boast resorts, casinos, fishing charters, and golf, just to name a few items to check off your fun list.

Child in a red shirt fishing on the shores of lake texoma, one of the most popular lakes in texas

Fort Worth Stockyards

A Texas day trip into Fort Worth for shopping and fun is not complete without stopping by the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Take a trip back in time into the old west when cattle were king, and the stockyards thrived on sale.

Even today, you can witness a cattle drive twice a day at the stockyards and enjoy a gunfight reenacted, just like you might have seen decades ago.

Food, fun, and entertainment are the order of the day at the Fort Worth Stockyards, so be sure to take a classic day trip in Texas to this historical and action-packed venue.

Longhorn cattle being driven through the ft worth stockyards, one of the best fort worth photo spots

Delightful Day Trips in East Texas

Caddo lake .

A visit to Caddo Lake is a trek into our past.

The waters of the area, created by the great raft of tree debris hundreds of years ago, led to building a habitat for wildlife and humans that has persisted for centuries.

Today, Caddo Lake is perfect for a day visit to take a hike, go for a swim, or hike the wooded trails of the areas.

A visit to Caddo Lake State Park is always a good idea, where you can rent a kayak or a canoe and enjoy paddling under the great cypress trees that line the waters of this great lake.

Family in an inflatable kayak paddling through the cypresses in Caddo Lake State Park TX

Texas State Railroad, Palestine

Do you love historic trains? Ever wanted to ride on one?

If so, you can have your chance at the Texas State Railroad in Palestine, Texas.

Here, in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the old steam locomotives still run, and you can be a part of it.

Book an open car, a dome car, or even a caboose for a 2 ½ hour journey through the pines of East Texas.

This day trip is absolutely perfect as an outing for the whole family.

view out of the texas state railroad, one of the best day trips in texas

Caddo Mounds State Historic Site

Deep in the East Texas forest, we find the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site.

Located between Crockett and Nacogdoches, Texas, the Caddo Mounds is a place to visit the past.

Set amongst the pines and near the Neches River, the ritual dirt mounds of the site’s namesake were long abandoned when the Caddo people were forced to move east into Louisiana territory.

Amongst the ancient mounds now stands a museum on the history of the Caddo people in the area and their way of life.

Wonderful West Texas Day Trips

Trans-pecos festival of music.

This annual music fest takes place in one of West Texas’ favorite and eclectic towns.

Each year the town of Marfa celebrates the Trans-Pecos Festival of Music.

Although this can go on for more than one day, it also makes for an awesome day trip of live music.

Book a place to stay early, though, because finding a bed in Marfa during the festival can be difficult.

Balmorhea State Park

Part ancient water source and part modern-day swimming pool, Balmorhea State Park is a natural wonder of West Texas.

To cool off from the summer desert heat, take a drive to this spring-fed marvel and take a dip with fish and other wildlife in this crystal clear, cool water.

The park’s green grass around the water hole has plenty of room for a shady picnic when swimming turns to hunger.

Don’t miss out on this big sky country gem when looking for day trips in Texas.

underwater photo of staircase with fish swimming next to it at balmorhea state park, one of the best places to visit in west texas

Monahans State Park

If you like the outdoors and don’t mind a bit of sand in your shoes, then Monahans State Park makes for an exciting day trip in Texas.

Monahans is the Texas version of what we think the Sahara looks like with its rolling sand dunes.

Spend the day surfing down the dunes and enjoy a picnic lunch for a break at this unique West Texas state park .

footsteps leading up a dune in monahan sandhills, one of the best state parks in west texas

Sonora Caverns

A few miles off of Interstate 10, we find the Sonora Caverns, widely considered one of the most beautiful caves in Texas .

Privately owned, these underground trails have developed over millions of years.

Take a tour through the caverns and see the incredible geology that forms around us through the interaction of rock and water.

Be prepared for total darkness like you’ve never seen before when your guide turns out the lights in a demonstration of total blackness.

After your venture under the earth, take time to browse the large gift shop that certainly has a souvenir for you to take home.

Interior of the Caverns of Sonora, one of the best caves in Texas

Stunning Day Trips in South Texas

Corpus christi.

What could be better than to visit the statue of the queen of Tejano music? All the fun that surrounds it of course!

Everyday trip to Corpus Christi should add a visit to the statue of Selena (Mirador de la Flor).

That’s only to start the fun. After your statue pilgrimage, enjoy a full day of shopping, eating, and relaxing on one of the many beaches in Corpus Christi .

As the sun goes down, the nightlife begins. Try your dancing skills with the Texas two-step or enjoy some drinks overlooking the water.

Whatever your choice, you’ll find plenty to do on your TX day trip to Corpus Christi.

harbor of corpus christi texas. there are several fun museums in corpus christi tx

South Padre Island

Keeping with the ocean vibe, our next day trip is an adventure to South Padre Island .

Although there are several seaside places to visit in the state, South Padre is our version of clear water paradise.

Spend the day at the beach, eating some great seafood, and for a memorable close to the evening, go horseback riding on the beach at sunset.

Sunrise over the beach in South Padre Island Texas, one of the best Texas romantic getaways

Cool Texas Day Trips in the Panhandle

Palo duro canyon state park.

The Texas version of the Grand Canyon happens to be located in the panhandle of the state, just outside of Amarillo and not far from Route 66 .

With over 120 miles of area and wilderness, Palo Duro Canyon is one of the absolute best day trips in Texas for those visiting the Panhandle.

Take in one of the many trails for hiking the canyon (especially the hike to the Lighthouse !), or bring your mountain bike for a spin.

Kate Storm standing in front of the Lighthouse in Palo Duro Canyon TX

Caprock Canyons State Park

When you feel the need to hang out with the state’s wild animals, take a day trip to Caprock Canyons State Park.

One of the park’s main attractions is the bats and bison that make the area their home.

Texas has the world’s largest bat population, and this state park offers the time to spend with them.

The bison, of course, is a throwback to yesteryear when millions of them roamed the plains of Texas and the U.S.

caprock canyons, one of the texas state parks near amarillo texas, at sunset

Classic Central Texas Day Trips

Hamilton pool preserve.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the Hill Country, not to mention one of the most popular day trips in Texas, is the famous Hamilton Pool located in Dripping Springs .

If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a clear water grotto fed by a waterfall from above.

This special place is hidden and only accessible by a short but rocky hike down and into the grotto where its year-round cold waters welcome visitors for a swim.

Be sure to plan ahead and make a reservation before visiting, as the available spots book up weeks in advance.

Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs TX as shot from inside the cave. Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most famous Texas waterfalls.

Fredericksburg

Not too far outside the city of Austin, you’ll find the delightful town of Fredericksburg, Texas.

Fredericksburg is known for its German heritage (and food), its beautiful Hill Country setting, its proximity to Enchanted Rock , and its many, many wineries .

The perfect day trip to Fredericksburg is bound to involve a little bit of everything–be sure to stroll Main Street, pay a visit to a winery, enjoy some German food, and check out the surrounding area.

During bluebonnet season, Willow Loop Road is a must-visit, and for those who want to seek out a Texas legend, nearby Luckenbach is well worth a visit!

Kate Storm in a blue dress holding a beer stein in the auslander, which serves up some of the best german food in fredericksburg tx

Inks Lake State Park

Texas has some of the best state parks in the country, and boy, do we have a ton of them. There are not many areas of the state that don’t offer a park nearby.

For a nice day trip for the family, take a drive to Inks Lake in the Highland Lakes area of the Hill Country.

This lake has clear water and plenty of space for spreading out a picnic.

Try your luck at fishing off one of the lake’s piers, or rent a paddleboat and kayak for a self-guided tour (be sure to seek if you can spot one of the lake’s waterfalls from the water!).

If getting on the water is not your thing, there are plenty of trails to explore around the lake and even a bird blind set up for the bird watchers in your family.

inks lake as seen from above with a road in the foreground, one of the best day trips in texas

Jacob’s Well

Speaking of cool and clear waters, Jacob’s Well is one of the most popular–and mysterious– swimming holes in Texas .

Located near Wimberley, Texas, the well has been welcoming swimmers to its natural beauty for decades.

Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that is located in the second-largest submerged cave in Texas.

At 140 feet deep, it’s quite mesmerizing, and plunging into its icy waters is incredibly refreshing on a hot day.

Like several of the most popular day trips in Texas, you’ll need to plan ahead to visit Jacob’s Well: reservations to swim in it during the summer sell out weeks in advance.

If you only want to take a short stroll to admire it from above, though, no reservation is needed.

jacobs well texas as seen from above on a sunny day

River Tubing in New Braunfels

Yes, we saved the ultimate in Texas day trip for last.

Although you can make a full weekend out of this summer tradition, for most, a single day is enough to wear even the most adventurous person out.

The Guadalupe River in New Braunfels is home to one of the most fun activities we have in Texas, river-tubing.

River tubing in Texas is quite simple. Rent a tube for you and one for your ice chest full of your favorite beverages and float down the river until the sun bakes you to a crisp (did I mention you need sunscreen)?

And don’t worry about being alone during your float; each day, hundreds of others will be doing the same and enjoying this wonderful river.

If the river itself is not to your liking, visit the Schlitterbahn, a New Braunfels water playground with slides and other fun water adventures.

3 photos of texas: galveston beach, longhorns, texas state railroad. black and red text on a white background reads "21 cool texas day trip ideas"

USA Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ usa tours for singles / solo travelers with 13,596 reviews.

Hiking & Trekking

Western USA National Parks Loop

This was a great tour, I highly recommend

3 Day Southwest USA National Parks Tour from Las Vegas

Amazing trip to see some of the best of US National Parks. Very educational and fun to learn about the history of the area and meet the locals on various tours and restaurants.

5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

I would like to add that the communication between tour radar and us was poor. No notice of change of first night hotel was passed on to us and the start n finish dates are not discussed AT all. It is really a 6 day tour not 8 day tour as advertised. Other than that Southwest Tours were fantastic it was tour radar that let us down.

$Hiking Utah\'s Mighty 5 Tour$

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Tour itinerary was well planned in order to see and hike Utah’s Big 5 National parks in 9 days. Our guide Rachel was excellent and did her best to manage 12 clients, drive, buy food, supervise food preparations and clean up, and break camp. However, given the amount of organization needed for camping, meals and driving required; and overseeing the often difficult and strenuous hikes, it would have been a better trip if there were 2 guides instead of only one. This trip went very well because we were an older group with many professionals with administration experience who pitched in to help the trip go smoothly. If a group on this tour does not blend as well as we did, don’t pitch in to do their share of work, and/or do not have experience working as a-team with administration experience, it may not go so well or more likely be a disaster. To avoid this, better to have 2 guides.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

Rachel is great, so well organized, patient, no friction at all between her and the group. The tour was exactly what I expected with regard to activities and pace. Of course, it was superb that we saw Denali two full days, but it was even a good time in the rain. I will probably travel with G Adventures again.

Mountain Hikes

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Fantastic tour ,good pace,daily great hikes,seen a lot without feeling pressed,knowledgeable,attentive guide,highly recommand.

Cultural Photography

Magnificent West - 7 Days

Wir waren eine kleine Gruppe Die Organisation war gut Die Unterkünfte auch Es wurde viel Trinkwasser verteilt Die Reiseleiter, insbesondere Eduardo, fand ich sehr informativ und sachlich.

In-depth Cultural

Wild West – 5 days

Overall, we had a great experience. This was our first bus tour, and our main tour guide, Roberto, was wonderful! He was very communicative and helpful. He fully explained where we were going and what we were doing and answered any and all questions, and it was interesting to see him switch so effortlessly between Italian and English. He deserves a raise for his five-star service. However, the other tour guides we interacted with on the last day seemed the complete opposite due to their incredibly non-upfront communications skills. For example, when we left the hotel to head back to LA, we were not told how long the trip was going to take, if and when we were going to stop, just nothing; they made me wonder what sort of criteria you have to meet to be a tour guide. Also, one made some slightly racist comments, which if you are dealing with an international clientele, I feel like you should learn to be more neutral in your interactions with others. It took some adjusting having to be on such a strict schedule. Some places you stopped hours at; some maybe 20 minutes. One time our bus's AC didn't work, so given the heat wave, you can imagine what that felt like. But generally it felt like being on a passenger on a road trip. If you want to see a lot in a compressed amount of time and don't mind not being so in control of planning or on a full bus, this tour is worth giving a shot. It definitely was a memorable adventure.

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Just couldn’t have been better. Extremely professional guides Robin and Sarah were highly knowledgable, friendly and organised. Accomodation was excellent in every location (most hotels even had hot tubs and pools!) and the food options were always good. Lovely comfortable Mercedes minibus. Highly recommended to everyone - would do another tour with South West Adventure Tours in a heartbeat.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

Sehr guter Tourguide. Kompakte Woche und genau meinen Vorstellungen entsprechend. Würde ich jeder Zeit wider buche. Einziger Magel Punkt: Die Kominikation vor der Tour mit Gaventures war schwierig.

$Nature\'s Best: Alaska Tour$

Nature's Best: Alaska

We loved everything except the boat tour out of Seward. The seas were way too rough to go out. It was the final tour of the year on that boat. It should of been cancelled and refunded in full. We received $50 each back because the tour was shortened from 6 hours to 5 hours. I repeat again. Waste of time. I did not take a picture. People were throwing up (plenty of them). Did not see any whales. We were notified the day before that the seas could be rough. Globus should of taken the initiative and cancelled. Did not have a good time at all.

American Parks Trail (Classic, End Rapid City, 9 Days)

£130 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

California National Park Discovery

the tour itself was amazing. The national parks do not disappoint. The travel accomodations were very cramped and uncomfortable. I am only 5 foot tall and I was cramped in this 14 passenger van. Food opportunities were limited.

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Great and rewarding experience.

What people love about USA Solo Tours

Judd was excellent, and very knowledgable, he was very prepared and i would recommend Intrepid to my friends and family

Mike Brown was the BEST guide I have ever had!! His knowledge of the history, culture, flora and fauna of the southwest was phenomenal. He was articulate and had a pleasing way of talking. He was also accommodating and helpful. wow! We were lucky to get him for our tour!

Guide was knowledgeable and helpful. It was a good group

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11 Solo Trips in California to Take at Least Once

Regardless of the route you choose to take, the Golden State’s freeways will lead you to some of the most iconic destinations in the world.

January 09, 2024

Embarking on a solo journey holds a captivating balance of challenge and reward, making it a tantalizing prospect for many. If you're on the brink of taking that leap, let this serve as your nudge towards adventure. Imagine setting your sights on a destination, fueling up, and letting your loved ones know you're embracing a bit of solitude for a weekend adventure. California's call to solo explorers is irresistible.

No matter which path you decide to explore, California's vast network of roads will guide you to some of the most renowned and breathtaking spots on the planet. Whether you're in pursuit of peaceful alone time or eager to immerse yourself in new experiences among new faces, California offers a diverse array of solo travel options to match your desires.

The Golden State's best solo travel destinations

You can’t go wrong with a scenic one-day drive along the Big Sur coastline. Views, hikes, beautiful campgrounds, and charming small towns—the perfect long weekend in Big Sur is best enjoyed alone. While on this solo getaway in California , stop by Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for hikes that are short and sweet. Once the last bits of light start to dim, book a quaint room in the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea to unwind at night.

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Want to feel like you’ve been transported to a whole different country on your solo trip in California? The charming small SoCal town of Solvang is the destination for you. Packed with unique Danish architecture, cool eateries, and quirky boutiques, exploring Solvang on a solo trip is a treat, to say the least. Spend your days biking around town and enjoying fresh pastries—and do it all with a Scandinavian flair.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an incredible destination for a weekend road trip no matter the time and occasion. If you’re someone who enjoys spending time in nature and engaging in outdoor recreation, Yosemite will be your best solo trip in California . Hike to stunning waterfalls , camp under towering trees, and enjoy breathtaking panoramas at every turn. If you find yourself planning another solo vacation to Yosemite before you even leave, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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Enter your zip code, can't-miss solo trips in southern california.

Palm Springs

Architecture aficionados will love embarking on a solo getaway to Palm Springs. The mecca of mid-century modern architecture is abundant with cool free things to do that make it worth all the hype. Check in at a luxurious hotel, drive through iconic Palm Springs neighborhoods, unwind by the pool all day, every day. Treat yourself to the experience of solo travel in California you’ve always dreamed of.

Solo trips to Los Angeles

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is always a good idea when choosing a beach destination for a summer road trip in the Golden State. A quintessential SoCal destination—if you’re unsure about where to go on your solo travel in Los Angeles, make Venice Beach your first stop. Have some fun in the sun, stroll along the boardwalk, and shop till you drop at the many boutique stores. The sheer amount of amenities alone make Venice one of the best places to travel alone in California.

Solo trips to San Diego

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

San Diego is a foolproof spot for a classic SoCal weekend getaway. Whether you’re in the mood to go splashing around the area or check out its incredible downtown , this solo getaway in California is a must-do. One of the top things to do on your solo trip in San Diego is checking out its historic Old Town State Park.

Not only is the park extremely beautiful, but it also boasts epic features that date back to the 19th century. Check out the museums, stroll through the pathways, and enjoy a picnic al fresco for a quintessential San Diego experience.

Bay Area solo weekend getaways you'll always remember

The Presidio of San Francisco

An essential part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the 15,000-acre Presidio of San Francisco is full of history. There are 24 miles of hiking trails and 25 miles of biking paths at your disposal. A solo trip to this NorCal destination offers plenty to explore—vast open spaces and lush green forests to name a few.

Don’t forget your camera on this solo vacation; you’re going to want to snap some photos. Stroll along the coast at Baker Beach and enjoy expansive views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

There are plenty of ways to go about spending a day in Sausalito. Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, this scenic destination boasts miles of sunny coastlines, charming cafes, and trendy boutiques. Sausalito is so close to S.F. that you can combine the two to make one awesome solo getaway in California. Tour the artsy galleries, check out the main attractions, and embark on a houseboat tour for a solo vacation you’ll never forget.

Solo vacations in the rugged North

Napa Valley

If relaxing is high up on your travel to-do list, then Napa Valley is a solo road trip in California you should strongly consider. Hike, bike, eat, and treat yourself to a spa day on the solo weekend getaway in California you’ll remember forever. Whether you’re heading there for just a day or a full weekend, you have enough things to do in Napa that’ll leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Avenue of Giants

If you haven’t done so already, the Avenue of Giants is a road trip you need to take —at least once. Drive through the towering redwoods, check out the landmarks along the way, and spend a day or two at family-owned hotels. Offering an unmatched experience you’ll cherish forever, this solo road trip is the one you’ve been waiting for. If you’ve be en seeking solitude and looking to reconnect with nature, this is one of the best places to travel alone in California.

Hidden Beach

The rugged coasts of Northern California have the ability to enchant anyone who lays an eye on them for the first time. Hidden Beach in Klamath is no exception. This secluded coastal treasure is the ultimate destination for travelers who like photography, hiking, and beach exploration. The dark gray sands, lack of crowds, and piles of driftwood make your solo trip in California feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

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Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in New Jersey

Last Updated By VI on March 9, 2024 in Destination Wedding

Morristown National Historical Park

Morristown National Historical Park , 30 Washington Pl, Morristown , New Jersey 07960, Phone: 973-543-1949

Beyond the Plate Food Tours

Food tours offer a unique way to gain an insight into a town’s foodie scene, taste some regional specialties, and to seek out the best establishments to return to during the remainder of your visit. Beyond the Plate Food Tours , Phone: 551-233-9553

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park , 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, New Jersey 08006, Phone: 609-494-2016

Day Trips in New Jersey: Cape May

More Jersey Shore beaches

Cheesequake State Park

Cheesequake State Park , 300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747, Phone: 732-566-2161

The Hunterdon Art Museum showcases contemporary art and craft works in an 1836 mill building. Nearby, the city's downtown district is lined with lovely art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. Clinton Map

Visitors can also sample delicious red and white wines at Brook Hollow Winery or stay overnight at the charming Rosemary Inn bed and breakfast facility. Columbia Map

Edgewater is also known for its free-flying monk parakeet colony, which are native to South America and have lived in the region since at least 1980. More Weekend Getaways in New Jersey

Grounds for Sculpture

More ideas: 15 Must-Try New Jersey Restaurants

Haddonfield

Unique stores include eclectic children's toy store Happy Hippo, and vibrant pet accessory store Velvet Paws. Visitors can dine at some of the Philadelphia region's top restaurants and cafes or explore historic attractions like the Historical Society of Haddonfield, which is housed within the 1841 Greenfield Hall. Haddonfield Map

On land, the city's delicious seafood restaurants are known as area landmarks, including the century-old Bahrs Landing Seafood Restaurant and the Lusty Lobster Seafood Market. Highlands Map

Island Beach State Park

Visitors can frolic along the park's white sand beaches, which offer lifeguarded swimming areas throughout the summer months. Dune buggy and four-wheel-drive vehicle access are permitted throughout certain areas of the park.

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park , 200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, Phone: 201-915-3403

Margate City

Visitors can view famed sites such as Marven Gardens, noted for its Monopoly fame, and the unique Lucy the Elephant zoomorphic architecture structure, which is more than 130 years old and stands 65 feet tall. Margate City Map

Allaire State Park

Allaire State Park , 4265 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ 07727, Phone: 732-938-2371

Paterson Museum

More ideas: Best New Jersey Amusement Parks

Point Pleasant Beach

More ideas: Best New Jersey Shore Camping Spots

Arts lovers can enjoy performances at regional Tony Award-winning McCarter Theatre Center or watch classic and foreign films at the Princeton Garden Theatre. In town, Nassau Street is home to charming shopping destinations and delicious global cuisine options. Princeton Map

Rockingham State Historic Site

Rockingham State Historic Site , 84 Laurel Ave, Kingston, NJ 08528, Phone: 609-683-7132

The town's Colonial Inn offers excellent adults-only bed and breakfast amenities, including rooms with double soaking tubs and steam showers.

Ocean County Mall is home to more than 120 specialty stores, including name brands such as Victoria's Secret, and H&M. Visitors can also take cruises aboard the paddlewheel riverboat River Lady, learn about exotic insects at Insectropolis, or catch live music performances by the Garden State Philharmonic or the Toms River Theatre Company. Each year, the town hosts one of the nation's largest Halloween events. Toms River Map

Along the city's Main Street, visitors can peruse shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the New Jersey Surf Museum.

Wharton State Forest

Wharton State Forest , Hammonton, NJ 08037, Phone: 609-561-0024

Atlantic City

Kitschy visitor attractions include the Steel Pier amusement park, home to newly-added giant Ferris wheel. Since 1921, the city has been the renowned home of the annual Miss America pageant. Atlantic City Map

1. Morristown National Historical Park
2. Beyond the Plate Food Tours
3. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
4. Day Trips in New Jersey: Cape May
5. Cheesequake State Park
7. Columbia
8. Edgewater
9. Grounds for Sculpture
10. Haddonfield
11. Highlands
12. Island Beach State Park
13. Liberty State Park
14. Margate City
15. Allaire State Park
16. Paterson Museum
17. Point Pleasant Beach
18. Princeton
19. Rockingham State Historic Site
20. Smithville
21. Toms River
22. Tuckerton
23. Wharton State Forest
24. Atlantic City

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

The exterior of the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, one of the best Virginia day trips. It is a large brick building with a large ornate crest on a cream wall at the very front of it. There is a tower in the middle and several chimneys. It is surrounded by a green garden with shrubs.

15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

July 30, 2021 // by Southern Trippers

Are you looking for interesting Virginia day trips? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list is full of some of the best day trips in Virginia. Virginia is a gorgeous Southern state that is full of fun and unique things to do. It is especially awesome if you are a history buff. So much of Virginia’s history is tied into the history of the forming of the United States of America and some of the country’s earliest presidents.

Even if American history isn’t really your thing, we guarantee there is something fun in Virginia for you to enjoy. Some of these day trips in Virginia are centered around its natural beauty, while others highlight the unique history of the state. We’ve also included some fun day trips in Virginia for families as well as fun day trips in Virginia for couples.

We’ve also made sure to include interesting and fun Virginia day trips for the history buffs, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers. Virginia truly does have something for everyone! So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Virginia day trips!

A black sign on the side of the road surrounded by trees. The sign has a red heart on it and says 'Welcome to Virginia. Virginia is for lovers'. The letters are white.

Assateague Island National Seashore

For those looking for Virginia day trips that are fun for the whole family, consider taking a trip to Assateague Island National Seashore . Assateague Island is a portion of National Park that is in both Maryland and Virginia. If you want to make this an extended trip and go camping at Assateague, you’ll need to go to the Maryland portion of the park. Assateague Island is best known for its abundance of wild horses roaming the park.

However, if you are just going for a fun day on the National Seashore, you’ll find plenty to do in the Virginia portion of the National Park. If you are thinking of visiting during the summer months you can expect to see wild foals along with wild horses. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. When you visit the seashore during the colder months, you’ll still be able to see wild horses, and you may even still be able to enjoy some watersports. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can of course walk along the seashore. It’s easily one of the best day trips in Virginia for families

A wild horse that is tan with a dark brown mane and tail. The horse is standing on a sandy beach with some grassy patches in it. The sky is clear blue with no clouds. It is one of the best Virginia day trips.

Monticello is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg. It is also one of the best Virginia day trips for history buffs. For those that don’t know, Monticello was the primary home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father and also served as the third President of the United States. It is important to remember when visiting Monticello that it was a plantation and Jefferson did have enslaved peoples working on the property. Please be respectful of that history if you go to tour the home.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll find that they do not try to hide the plantation’s dark past. Instead, you will learn about slavery at the time and how Jefferson profited immensely from this dark practice. As you tour Monticello, you will be reminded that it was built on the backs of enslaved peoples.

This is set against the backdrop of learning about Jefferson and his family life while living in the home. It is often an eye-opening way to look at the history of one of the Founding Fathers. You’ll see how that history has shaped the United States of America as a whole. We guarantee you will leave Monticello having learned something new and impactful.

A brick plantation style building that has white trim and a white roof. In front of the house there are yellow, red, and orange tulips planted. The sky is blue. It is Thomas Jefferson's famous Monticello.

Luray Caverns

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns . The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia’s underground cave systems. Because it is so popular, you’ll want to make sure you plan to get tickets ahead of time, or have a flexible schedule so you can get tickets for whatever time slots are still available the day of your visit.

The tickets range in price and depend on your age. The caverns also offer various discounts. Luray Caverns are the largest caverns in the Eastern United States and you’ll find some truly spectacular underground rock formations.

The walkways along the tour are all paved and lighted. You’ll walk through a cavern room with a ceiling that is ten stories high, optical illusion rooms, and layers of folded rock. It is called the Geologist Hall of Fame, and once you step foot in the caverns you’ll easily see why.

The inside of a massive cavern in Virginia. There are tall rock formations that make up the cavern in different shades of brown and yellow, and occasionally green. There is a brick walkway winding through the caverns.

Colonial Williamsburg

One of the coolest historical places in Virginia is Colonial Williamsburg . It is also one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. When you need a break from the sandy shores, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to Colonial Williamsburg. At Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find the World’s Largest Living History Museum. As you walk all through the Colonial town you’ll find reenactors posing as people who would have originally lived there.

It is a full-scale working village with a blacksmith, potter, baker, brickmaker, farms, and other shops that would have been included in a typical Colonial town. At each one, you’ll find a skilled reenactor who will tell you about the process for creating their goods and wares during the Colonial period. There are also shops where you can purchase the products that are made right there in town. You’ll also find restaurants with delicious period-accurate food, guided walking tours, and even guided ghost tours. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Virginia in one day and a really fun day trip from Virginia Beach.

The Poe Museum

Edgar Allan Poe lived in a few Southern cities and one of those is Richmond Virginia. In Richmond, you can learn more about Poe’s life in Virginia at The Poe Museum . It is where Poe started his literary career and he spent a lot of his life in Richmond writing. Although he moved to Baltimore at the end of his life before his mysterious death, Richmond is where he called home the longest.

The Richmond Poe Museum is one of many Poe Museums in the United States. What makes it different, and one of the most interesting Virginia day trips, is its collection. The Poe Museum in Richmond has the largest collection of Poe artifacts in the world. Inside you can see Poe’s childhood bed, several articles of his clothing, and personal letters. You can also see the famous image of Poe known as the Cornwell Daguerreotype. You can even see a lock of Poe’s hair! It is one of the best day trips from Richmond and is a really cool way to learn about one of America’s most famous authors.

The courtyard in the Poe Museum in Richmond. There is a walkway with a fountain, a bench, and a pot of purple and white flowers. There is grass, shrubs, and a brick enclave that has a bust of Edgar Alan Poe.

Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

The Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Northern Virginia. You’ll also be close to Charlottesville, so it’s a great option for day trips from Charlottesville as well. It is one of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes full of waterfalls, iconic mountains, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers and grasses. If you don’t have a lot of time on your day trip in Virginia, take Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive takes you through Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Mountains through Shenandoah National Park and eventually meets the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As you travel on Skyline Drive you’ll be able to stop into cute Virginia small towns, admire the view at scenic overlooks, and even go hiking. It’s one of the best National Parks in Virginia. It easily welcomes millions of visitors all year to enjoy its stunning views and landscapes. One of the best times to go is during the Peak Season. This is when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak. It’s a beautiful time to visit, but because of that, it can get very busy. So keep that in mind when you plan your Shenandoah National Park drive .

The view looking down into a valley at Shenandoah National Park. The mountains are covered in trees and you can see some boulders right on the edge of the mountain. The sun is setting so the sky is yellow, orange, and blue.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the best day trips from Richmond for families and thrill-seekers. For those that don’t know, Busch Gardens is a fun amusement park that is very popular. Busch Gardens is also a great option for day trips from Williamsburg. It is technically in Williamsburg, but it’s a bit outside of the city center.

There are a few Busch Gardens parks in the US, and the one in Virginia has a European theme. So as you walk from ride to ride you’ll feel like you’re walking through quaint European villages. A lot of the food vendors and souvenir shops are also full of European influences.

It is also one of the best day trips in Virginia for families. There are plenty of rides and cool things to do in the park that the kids will love. There is also a waterpark, a petting zoo, and throughout the park, during the day you’ll find animal exhibits. For the adults, there is plenty to do as well. Every year the amusement park hosts an epic Oktoberfest celebration.

It is also one of the few amusement parks in the US where you can buy alcohol throughout the day, all year. That’s because the park is owned by Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company. No matter your age, you’ll find that Busch Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in one day.

People walking down a brick path surrounded by buildings that look like they belong in an old European Village. There are flags hanging from the buildings and trees behind them. One of the best Virginia day trips.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are close to Charlottesville and looking for something fun to do, consider taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stretch of road that starts in Virginia and continues down into North Carolina. It follows the Appalachian Mountains, and in particular, the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Appalachian Mountain range. It’s one of the best day trips from Charlottesville if you want to see some spectacular views.

Depending on where you hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s also a great place to add to your list of day trips from Roanoke. All along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find scenic overlooks , easy to difficult hiking trails , cascading waterfalls, and so much more. Depending on how much time you have, you can even venture into North Carolina and drive the parkway for a bit before heading back towards Richmond. As you drive the parkway you can stop in some cute small towns if you’re not up for a more adventurous day trip in Virginia.

A view of the mountains and valleys in the Blue Ridge Parkway. The mountain tops have a blue tint to them in the distance and the sun is setting so the sky is purple, yellow, and orange.

Mill Mountain Star And Park

One of the most famous attractions in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star. The Mill Mountain Star can be found in Mill Mountain Park and is easily one of the best things to do in Roanoke when you visit. It also makes for one of the best day trips from Roanoke since it’s not necessarily right in the city center.

The Mill Mountain Star is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up. It’s sort of like the Hollywood sign of Roanoke. It has been lighting up the mountainside since the 1950s, so it’s become a pretty iconic piece of Roanoke history. At the Star, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the city of Roanoke.

Because the Mill Mountain Star is located in a public park, you’ll find other things to do there as well. At the park, you can go hiking, and you’ll need to do a little hiking if you want to get up close to the Star. But there is also a zoo, playground, Discovery Center, and a native wildflower garden. It is one of the best day trips in Virginia for families, but it’s also fun for all ages.

Looking up at a large metal star that lights up on the side of a mountain. You can see trees around the star and a blue sky with clouds in it. One of the best Virginia day trips.

George Washington National Forest

The George Washington National Forest is one of the best National Parks in Virginia . It is also one of the best options for day trips from Richmond if you’re looking to escape the city. It’s a popular camping weekend getaway in Virginia , but it can easily be a fun day trip in Virginia as well. Because it is close to Richmond, it’s one of the more popular National Parks in Virginia, so keep that in mind when you are planning your day trip. Depending on the season, you may encounter more crowds.

The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and there are also lakes and rivers. In the Summer months, you can enjoy watersports in the lakes in rivers, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. There are also certain trails where you can go horseback riding. One of the coolest things to do in the National Forest is going hang gliding. It’s the perfect activity for the thrill-seekers looking for just a little extra jolt of fun at the George Washington National Forest. Of course, the forest is gorgeous in the Fall and you can still enjoy a ton of activities in the forest in Winter and Spring.

An aerial view of the George Washington National Forest in the Fall. The trees are covered in green, yellow, orange, and red leaves for miles. You can see a road winding through the trees every so often.

Barboursville Ruins And Winery

Barboursville was once one of the finest are largest private residences in Virginia. But on Christmas Day in 1884, a devastating fire ripped through the home and almost completely destroyed it. Since that day in 1884, Barboursville has been preserved as ruins and is one of the best day trips from Charlottesville. What makes it so special is that is the only known structure in Orange County, where it is located, to be designed by Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a prominent member of Virginia society, both before and after his presidency.

The ruins are registered as National Historic Places and are actually one of the day trips in Virginia for couples. That is because the ruins are now home to one of the best wineries in Virginia. The Barboursville Winery was established on the ground in 1976 and has since become a well-recognized winery by wine connoisseurs. You’ll find the tasting room and visitors center just steps from the Barboursville Ruins.

On the grounds, you’ll also find a restaurant that is perfect for one of the prettiest romantic day trips in Virginia. You and your partner can enjoy a day exploring the historic grounds, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious meal. In the Summer, you can also catch ‘Shakespeare in the Ruins’. A local Shakespeare performing company uses the ruins of Barboursville as a stage. The play changes yearly, so you can come back for a different experience every year. The Barboursville ruins are definitely one of the best day trips in Virginia for Couples and easily one of the most romantic day trips in Virginia.

The ruins of a mansion that burnt down in 1884 in Virginia. The home was originally designed by Thomas Jefferson. You can see the brick exterior, four pillars made of brick and plaster, and trees and shrubs around it.

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown

On your list of day trips from Williamsburg , you absolutely need to add a trip to Historic Jamestown and Yorktown. You can drive about 30 minutes outside of Williamsburg and end up in Historic Jamestown or Yorktown, which is part of the ‘Historic Triangle’ in Virginia. Because they are all so close together, we suggest making this a historic tour day trip from Williamsburg. Start in Historic Jamestown, which was originally founded in 1607 by European immigrants.

Jamestown was the first permanent settlement in America for those making the journey from various countries in Europe. You’ll find a living history museum, similar to Colonial Williamsburg, but on a smaller scale. There is also a reconstructed Native American village alongside a Colonial fort, so you can see how Native Americans and European immigrants would have lived in the early 1600s in the area.

In Yorktown, there is another similar site. However, Yorktown wasn’t founded until 1691, over 80 years later. You’ll notice some similarities, but also plenty of differences as generations learned what did and didn’t work in the area. The town is probably best known as the site of the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. It’s where the American Revolution is said to have finally ended, with the surrender of English General Cornwallis. While you are in Yorktown, you can tour the battlefield as well as the American Revolution Museum. A journey to the two historic cities is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg.

A structure made out of logs that looks like it's the frame of a building. It has sand underneath it and you can see a fence made of the same types of logs. You can also see an old canon that is next to a path on the beach.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is actually in three states; West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Depending on what you’re interested in, the different states offer different experiences. The Maryland section is mainly hiking trails and scenic views along the Potomac River.

West Virginia and Virginia share the section of the park that has some really cool historic buildings. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best small towns in West Virginia that you should explore.

Because of its location, it’s a great option for day trips from Northern Virginia.

Just like so many other places to visit in Virginia in one day, the National Historic Park is bursting with history. You’ll find a historic town with 19th-century buildings and see what it was like to live in a port town. There are living history events, local artisans, and more. You’ll also find hiking and biking trails as well as enjoy watersports like swimming, kayaking, and boating.

Keep in mind that when you are planning your trip, you may find that the trailheads or destinations you have in mind may be across the border in either Maryland or West Virginia. Either way, it’s still one of the most fun day trips in Virginia.

Make sure to check out our list of things to do in Harpers Ferry!

An aerial view of Harpers Ferry. You can see a bridge going across a river that leads to a small town on the side of a hill. The hillside is covered in trees with no leaves, or yellow and orange leaves. You can see the river in the distance running between the hills.

Mariners’ Museum And Park

If you’re looking for interesting day trips in Virginia for families, consider a day at the Mariners’ Museum and Park. It is close to Virginia Beach, so it’s one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. The Mariners’ Museum is in Newport News which is just about an hour inland, so you won’t have to travel too far to learn about Virginia’s interesting maritime history.

Throughout the museum, you’ll find exhibits that are interesting to both the youngest and oldest members of the family. On certain days of the week, kids can enjoy storytime with a maritime theme. There are also hands-on exhibits, crafts, and more that they can do while they are learning about Virginia’s maritime history.

There are also plenty of more in-depth exhibits for the older members of the family. One of the coolest areas of the museum is the gallery of Ship Models that show popular ship designs through the centuries. The Mariners Park is free to the public and is considered to be a beautiful woodland oasis. Inside the park, you can stroll along the popular Nolan Trail, admire nature, or stop for a picnic lunch at the Lions bridge. Mariners’ Museum and Park are absolutely one of the best day trips in Virginia for families!

The exterior of the Mariners' Museum in Virginia. It is a white building with lots of windows, and there is a tall statue with a model ship on top of it. You can also see shrubs, tall grasses, and an antique canon.

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Thanks to popular novels, lighthouses have become an almost romantic iconic image along the sandy shores of any beach town. If you’re looking for some romantic day trips in Virginia, you and your partner can spend the day exploring the historic lighthouse at Cape Henry. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is within 15 minutes of Virginia Beach, which also makes it one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach for you and your partner to take.

At the Cape Henry Lighthouse, you can take a tour of the lighthouse, climb up to the top, and explore the grounds around the lighthouse as well. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and was commissioned by George Washington with Alexander Hamilton overseeing its building. It was built close to where European immigrants first landed before establishing the Jamestown colony. If you are looking for day trips in Virginia for couples who like a little bit of history and the beach. It’s also one of the most interesting Virginia day trips.

Looking through some trees and shrubs at a beach that has a tall black and white lighthouse on it. Near the lighthouse you can see several white buildings with red rooves. Past the buildings there are tall dunes covered in grass and then you can see the ocean.

With so much history and culture in the state, it is easy to make a list of fun places to visit in Virginia in one day. We hope you enjoyed this list of unique historic sites, hidden gems, and small towns that are spread throughout the beautiful state. You can’t go wrong taking a day to explore these amazing spots on your next Virginia day trip.

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Solo Travel Across New York State

Go solo on your next adventure in New York State! With unique lodging, award-winning wineries, and exhilarating outdoor experiences, New York State has endless opportunities to explore. From finding serenity in the mountains to sampling local cuisine during a farm stay, you’ll have an extraordinary self-indulgent journey.

Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available. Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines . Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing.

Updated 8/1/22

Take a group cooking class at the Carriage House Cooking School ( Adirondacks )

@carriagehousecookingschool-Instagram_618x348

Courtesy of @carriagehousecookingschool

Expand your palate—and recipe book—by learning how to make a new dish at the Carriage House Cooking School in Peru. “Risotto Stirred Simplicity” is just one example of the interactive cooking classes available for all levels of cooks. The class will help you master the art and science of making great risotto as you create three scrumptious dishes that spotlight sausage, seafood, and mushrooms. Participating in a class is a great way to meet other travelers while learning about the flavors and ingredients of the local region. Price varies depending on the class.

Sip wine along Seneca Lake ( Finger Lakes )

Embark on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail to discover picturesque wineries located along one of the pristine Finger Lakes. With award-winning wines and breathtaking views, enjoy wine tastings at your pick of more than 30 wineries, which include Glenora Wine Cellars in Dundee, Miles Wine Cellars in Himrod, Three Brothers Wineries & Estates in Geneva, and Belhurst Estate Winery in Geneva. If you’re interested in tasting at multiple wineries, look into transportation options with local limousines and tours. Also, check out the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail and the Keuka Lake Wine Trail to explore other top wineries in the Finger Lakes.

Enjoy a farm stay at WhistleWood Farm ( Hudson Valley )

whistlewood farm_@starr24-instagram_618x348

Courtesy of @starr24

With uniquely decorated rooms and treats such as homemade pies throughout the day, WhistleWood Farm Bed and Breakfast in Rhinebeck offers a simple yet incredible farm stay. Using locally sourced ingredients, WhistleWood Farm features breakfast dishes like buttermilk pancakes, eggs, fruit, and more. During the day, interact with the animals on the farm—horses, cows, chickens, and donkeys—and walk along the farm’s trails to get a sense of the beauty of the Hudson Valley.

Take an outdoor skills workshop with ADK Mountain Club ( Adirondacks )

Courtesy of @adkmtnclub

Outdoor enthusiasts or aspiring outdoor enthusiasts—get ready to explore the wilderness by taking a skills workshop with the ADK Mountain Club. Some of this year’s workshops include “Backcountry Water Monitoring,” where you learn how to identify native and non-native species on the water “Map and Compass Fundamentals Workshop,” where you develop important map and compass skills, and “Outdoor Leadership,” where you learn how to become an outdoor leader. Some workshops are free while others have a cost, and registration is available online.

Relax at YO1 Health Resort ( Catskills )

Get pampered on a getaway to YO1 Health Resort in Monticello, an Ayurvedic health center with personalized treatments. Day passes include a massage, a mud or hydrotherapy treatment, a yoga session, a meditation session, three vegetarian meals, a fresh cold-pressed juice, and access to the locker room, indoor pool, fitness center, and walking/biking trails. A three-day wellness program and health management programs are also available. Take some time to yourself or interact with fellow guests during your visit. Please make reservations in advance.

Go whitewater rafting ( Thousand Islands-Seaway and Adirondacks )

A group of people whitewater raft in the Adirondacks

Are you ready for a thrilling whitewater rafting experience? The Adventure Center at Whitewater Challengers should be next on your list! With rafting trips in both the Thousand Islands and Adirondacks, there are ample opportunities to explore from the water. The Black River, near Watertown, offers a fun experience in the summer months. Each trip includes an “on-river snack” and beverage. The Hudson River trip in the Adirondacks features 15 miles of Class 3–4 rapids. If you’re looking for a less adrenaline-fueled trip, try rafting in the summer or fall, as the rafting season runs April through October. Both trips focus on safety and are led by experienced guides. Also, check out the Adirondack River Outfitters whitewater rafting trips in the Black River, the Hudson River, and the Moose River. For exhilarating rapids, visit Moose River in April. For less intense water, go later in the season when the river is perfect for beginners and families. Price varies for both whitewater rafting providers.

Go underground at Howe Caverns ( Central New York )

Howe Caverns - Photo Courtesy of Howe Caverns

Head 156-feet underground to explore impressive caves and rock formations illuminated by colorful lights at Howe Caverns. With a temperature of 52 degrees all year long, the caves are the perfect location for visitors of all ages—any time of the year! The Traditional Tour offers a 90-minute experience with exploration on foot and by boat. For a nighttime experience, try the two-hour Lantern Tour—offered by reservation-only Friday and Saturday nights in the summer and on select weekends in the winter. The Lantern Tour is only for guests 16 years of age and older. Price varies and reservations must be made online . Open everyday 9am-5pm through Labor Day. Tours leave every hour. Advance tours must be booked online.

Visit Montauk Lighthouse ( Long Island )

A trip to the East End of Long Island isn’t complete without stopping at the Montauk Lighthouse. The National Historic Landmark, built in 1796, was the first lighthouse in New York State. Once you’ve seen the views from the lighthouse grounds, learn the significant history of the Montauk Lighthouse at their on-site museum, where you’ll see photographs, documents, and more showcasing the site’s story. Adults: $13; seniors: $8; children (up to 12 years old and with a minimum height requirement of 41”): $5.

Explore the Saratoga Spa State Park ( Capital-Saratoga )

Saratoga Spa State Park, Geyser Springs Area

Whether you’re driving along the Avenue of the Pines or walking along a tree-lined path in the woods, the Saratoga Spa State Park is a not-to-be-missed destination that’s beautiful throughout the year. The more than 2,000-acre park is home to a multitude of outdoor activities. Take a drink from the mineral springs, and see the geyser and limestone formations. In the summer months, swim in the park’s pools, and, in the winter months, go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating. Price varies depending on the season and activity, sometimes it’s free.

Sit at the bar and eat dinner at a Buffalo Corner Tavern ( Greater Niagara )

A 4-story corner brick building with flowers on the exterior o

From classic dishes and drink specials to original decor and friendly faces, a stop at one of Buffalo’s Corner Taverns will make you feel like a local on your solo journey. With each corner tavern offering its own unique history, enjoy a meal at the bar while hearing stories from years past. Rohall’s Corner , located on the corner of Amherst and Reservation Streets in the Black Rock neighborhood, features several different wines and beers—some even served from their authentic wooden coolers. The Place , located in Elmwood Village on the corner of Lexington and Ashland Avenues, initially opened in the 1870s and was officially named “The Place” in 1941. Their chef created menu changes daily to offer the most exciting, fresh options. No matter which Buffalo Corner Tavern you choose, the combination of history and hospitality won’t disappoint.

Participate in a workshop at the Living Glass Gallery ( Chautauqua-Allegheny )

Channel your creativity at the Living Glass Gallery in Westfield. The glass studio and gallery offers classes year-round for learners 12 years of age and older. Learn how to create stained glass pieces—there are classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced artists—or create a mosaic piece during “The Art of Mosaics” workshop. While you’re there, browse the gallery for beautiful creations by Living Glass Gallery’s owner, Denise Williams, and other local artists. The gallery is open on Saturdays from 10 am–4 pm or by appointment. Summer hours are from May–August and include additional open days. Price varies.

Browse the extensive collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art ( New York City )

The Metropolitan Museum of Art at night with fountain

With more than two million pieces on display, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the Met, is an oasis for art appreciators of all generations. Representing more than 5,000 years of history from across the world, the Met features current exhibitions that run for a shorter amount of time and ongoing exhibitions that act as staples of the museum. The Met also hosts pieces by renowned artists, such as Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock, to name a few. Open daily; Sunday–Thursday from 10 am–5:00 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10 am–9 pm. General admission price varies.

Don't forget to share your summer vacation with us! Share New York State pictures on Instagram and Twitter with #ILoveNY and #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook !

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New England Wanderlust

Maine · August 3, 2022

15 Awesome Day Trips From Portland, Maine (2024)

Portland is a wonderful city in its own right, but it’s also centrally-located to some other amazing places. If you live in Portland or are new to the city, and are looking to get out and explore more of the region, or if you’re planning a longer stay and are wondering what your options are for day trips from Portland, Maine, this post is all about the absolute best options to give you plenty of ideas.

Even with just a day trip from Portland, you’ll be able to see some incredible coastal landscapes and lighthouses, go on some awesome tours, eat some delicious food and feel like you had a true vacation while only being gone a day. Having travelled all over Maine for over 10 years , I’ve seen so much of what the Pine Tree State has to offer, and I’ve scouted out the places that are worth your time!

With that, let’s jump into my favorite day trips from Portland, Maine!

Portland in a great city that's so close to lots of different and amazing places that make for incredible day trips from Portland, Maine.

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Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine (2022)

Below is a list of my favorite day trips from Portland, Maine, and the destinations are organized by shortest to furthest distance from Portland. Most day trips from Portland, Maine on this list are less than 2 hours away, with the longest being 2 hours and 30 minutes away. And be sure to keep reading below for bonus seasonal suggestions, as to find out if a day trip from Portland to Acadia is worth it!

1. Kennebunkport, ME

Distance From Portland: 40 minutes

The easiest, and also one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine is Kennebunkport. I love Kennebunkport because there’s so much to do, but it’s also a small town that’s easily manageable for a day trip. It’s packed with tons of charm, has some great beaches, awesome shops and restaurants and feels like a true escape from city life in Portland.

Kennebunkport is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine because it's a short drive away, but you'll feel like you've truly escaped the city.

Some of the best things to do on a Kennebunkport day trip from Portland:

Explore the shops & restaurants along Dock Square.
Go for a swim or walk on the shoreline of Gooch’s, Mothers or Colony Beach.
Take a drive on Ocean Avenue.
Get a lobster roll at The Clam Shack.
Walk along the coast of Cape Arundel on the Parson’s Way Trail.

A really great tour option in Kennebunkport if you’re a foodie is a culinary walking tour . Each tour is different based on the season, but it lasts for 2.5 hours, and you’ll get the inside scoop from a local on all the best foods to eat in town. They’ll take you to some off-the-beaten path places, and you’ll meet with food artisans to sample locally-caught lobster, chowder, Maine whoopie pies, the absolute best ice cream in town, and so much more. For everything you get with this tour, I think the cost is very reasonable!

Click here to book your Culinary Walking Tour in Kennebunkport!

2. Ogunquit, ME

Distance From Portland: 1 hour

Ogunquit is another one of the best options for day trips from Portland, Maine. It’s very close to Kennebunkport, and you can definitely do both in one day if you’re feeling up for it (although, there’s so much to do in each town that you can easily fill up a full day in each place).

Ogunquit is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine if you're looking for the perfect beach day. It's a short drive away, and offers one of the longest stretches of sandy shoreline in the whole state.

Ogunquit is best known for having one of the longest stretches of sandy shoreline in all of Maine, so if you’re looking for a beach day without having to go far, this is one of the best places for that in Maine. Ogunquit’s town is also very quaint and easily walkable, and packed with adorable shops and great restaurants.

Some of the best things to do in Ogunquit on a day trip from Portland:

Walk from Ogunquit’s town to Perkins Cove along Marginal Way for one of the most scenic walks in Southern Maine! Perkins Cove has its own town little town, so be sure to budget time to explore it.
Visit the shops and restaurants downtown.
Walk along the shoreline of Ogunquit Beach.

The views along Marginal Way in Ogunquit are worth taking a day trip from Portland, Maine for.

Bonus Suggestion : From Ogunquit, it’s also very easy to see Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick, which is only about 20 minutes away, and is worth the excursion. Also close to York, which is home to some more beautiful scenery and the Stonewall Kitchen flagship store, this lighthouse lives on its own little island, and there’s a park that offers a fantastic view of the lighthouse for a gorgeous photo opportunity!

Nubble Lighthouse in Maine is one of the most beautiful places to visit during a day trip from Portland.

Psst! I have an entire post on things to do in Ogunquit if you need more ideas!

3. Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth is a lovely little coastal town in New Hampshire that’s just over the Maine border, and only a short drive from Portland. Portsmouth’s downtown is so charming, and has a lot of really great shops, restaurants, cafes and breweries, as well as waterfront walkways, and even a small little lighthouse just outside of town. For all these reasons, it’s one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine.

Portsmouth, NH is such a charming little place that has lots of waterfront to explore, and a great downtown with awesome shops, restaurants and breweries.

Some of the best things to do in Portsmouth, NH on a day trip from Portland:

Taste the local beer at these awesome breweries: Portsmouth Brewery , Loaded Question Brewing and Great Rhythm Brewing .
Visit the cute shops in Market Square. Two of my favorites are Jane Gee for natural skin and body care products, and Sault New England for East-coast inspired clothing.
Get some sweet treats at Elephantine Bakery .
Stroll through Prescott Park.

If you’re looking to see as much of Portsmouth as you can, as well as take in some of the best water views, I recommend checking out this bike tour through town and the local islands . This is a guided tour that last about two hours, and is a casual cruise around town, as well as the surrounding islands. Led by a local expert, you’ll hear stories about the town’s history, as well as be able to stop for some awesome photo opportunities.

Click here to check out this bike tour in Portsmouth!

4. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 10 minutes.

One of my favorite small waterfront towns in all of Maine is Boothbay Harbor, and this makes for one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine. Even though it’s such a short drive away, you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a different world. Between the charming downtown, beautiful waterfront restaurants and amazing opportunities to tour the waters and see wildlife, you’re sure to have a great day in Boothbay Harbor.

Boothbay Harbor is an excellent option when looking at day trips from Portland, Maine because it offers lots of opportunities to get out onto the water with tours, and also is very small and manageable for a day.

Some of the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor on a day trip from Portland:

Walk the streets of downtown to visit the shops and eateries.
Cross the footbridge for views of town and the water.
Head out onto the water for a wildlife and lighthouse tour (see my suggestions below!).
Have an awesome waterfront lunch or dinner at Boathouse Bistro .
Get an ice cream from Downeast Ice Cream Factory .

If you come to Boothbay Harbor for your day trip, I highly suggest you consider a boat tour. There are so many options in Boothbay, and the views are incredible. My favorite boat tours in Boothbay are the wildlife and lighthouse tours.

A great tour option for your day trip from Portland, Maine is the Lighthouses, Lobsters & Seals Tour . For the price, I think this tour offers a lot a fun and spectacular views. During this tour, you’ll pass by two lighthouses, spot seals lounging on the rocks, and also learn all about the local lobstering community, as well as what it takes to haul lobster traps. And with packing all that into only 1.5 hours, it allows you spend the rest of your day trip exploring the town.

Boothbay Harbor provides so many different tours to view the local wildlife, including these adorable seals.

Click here to check out the Lighthouses, Lobsters & Seals tour in Boothbay Harbor!

Another great option if you love lighthouses is this cruise along Kennebec River , where you’ll get to see 7 lighthouses, and also learn about the local maritimes and ship-building history. Tour guides will also help you spot shore birds and other wildlife during the cruise.

Click here to check out the Kennebec River Cruise!

Lastly, definitely consider this Puffin Tour during your day trip to Boothbay Harbor. This tour is about 2.5 hours, and takes you out to Eastern Egg Rock to see a puffin colony. During the tour, you’ll pass by lighthouses and gorgeous scenery, and the you’ll be guided by a member of the National Audubon Society to learn all about the puffins and other shore birds.

Click here to check out the Puffin Tour in Boothbay Harbor!

Psst! I have en entire post on fun things to do in Boothbay Harbor , which includes more tips for your puffin tour, so be sure to check out if you need more information.

5. Newburyport, MA

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Newburyport in Massachusetts is another one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine. I love visiting this little town because it’s both a gorgeous place packed with beautiful, colonial-style homes and quaint side streets, but also has a charming downtown, a waterfront park and even the stunning Plum Island to explore. You’ll definitely be able to fill up a full day here.

Newburyport is both a charming town and an amazing place to explore beaches and wildlife.

Some of the best things to do in Newburyport on a day trip from Portland:

Stroll through the shops downtown.
Walk along the paths in the waterfront park.
Get lost in the charming residential side streets.
Head out onto the water (see my suggestion below!).
Explore Plum Island and the scenic trails at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge .

A great option for a boat tour in Newburyport is this cruise through the harbor on a Yankee Clipper . There are a few different tour options available, including a narrated history tour, a Parker River National Wildlife Refuge tour, as well as a sunset cocktail cruise if you want to end your day out on the water.

Click here to check out this boat tour in Newburyport!

Psst! I have an entire post on things to do in Newburyport and Plum Island , if you’re looking for more ideas for your day trip!

6. Sebago Lake, ME

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Sebago Lake is one of the best options for day trips from Portland, Maine if you’re looking for a peaceful day. While it’s a popular destination, it doesn’t often feel super crowded, and definitely has a very chill atmosphere. There are also a good amount of of kid’s activities here, including mini golf places, and lots of opportunity to get out onto the lake.

Sebago Lake is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine if you're looking for a calm and peaceful excursion.

Since Sebago Lake is the second largest lake in Maine, it covers a pretty big area, and there are a few different towns that surround the lake, which each offer really fun things to do.

Some of the best things to do in on a day trip to Sebago Lake from Portland:

Walk around the lake on the Outer Loop Trail inside Sebago Lake State Park.
Rent Jet Skis and head out onto the water.
Hike the trails at Hacker’s Hill Preserve.
Grab some snacks, Maine whoopie pies and other delicious baked goods at Gemmes General Store.
Eat fresh lobster at Stoney Brook Lobster Pound.
Taste the local beer at Sebago Brewing Company

One of the best ways to get out onto the lake for a peaceful afternoon is by renting kayaks and spending a few hours enjoying the views from the peaceful water. Along with your kayak rental, you’ll get a life jacket, as well as a map of the lake so you know the best areas to explore.

Click here tochecko it this Kayak Tour on Sebago Lake!

7. Conway, NH

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 30 minutes

A great option for a day trip from Portland, Maine is Conway, NH, which is located in the White Mountains region. While this is a great destination year-round, I think it’s especially enjoyable in the fall season to really take advantage of the fall foliage views. There’s actually so much to do in Conway that you probably can’t experience it all in a day, but it definitely makes for a great day trip to get some fresh mountain air.

Conway is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine for all season, as its a ski destination, provides amazing fall foliage, and offers lots of hiking for the spring and summer.

This is also a great destination if you’re traveling with children, as there are lots of kid-friendly activities such as the Conway Scenic Railroad, roller coaster rides at Cranmore Mountain Resort and the Kahuna Laguna Water Park.

Some of the best things to do in Conway on a day trip from Portland:

Explore the cute downtown and visit the shops.
Visit all the waterfalls at Diana’s Baths.
Drive or hike up to Cathedral Ledge View Point.
Tour the local covered bridges.
Get some sweet treats to bring home (or eat on the drive!) at one of the town’s many bakeries.
Have a memorable meal at Chef’s Bistro.

8. Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Another great destination in New Hampshire that also makes for an awesome day trip from Portland, Maine is Lake Winnipesaukee, which is also the state’s largest lake. Mostly known as a summer destination, Lake Winnipesaukee is also a very scenic fall day trip because the amazing foliage colors.

Lake Winnipesaukee is actually comprised of eight different towns, each with something unique and fun to offer.

Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire in the largest lake in the state, and with several different towns to visit the area, it's always a fun visit.

Some of the best things to do on a Lake Winnipesaukee day trip from Portland:

Rent a jet ski or boat to spend the day on the water.
Go ziplining at Gunstock Mountain Resort.
Do a little shopping for unique finds at the Old Country Store in Moultonborough.
Enjoy a ride on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.
Visit the mountain top mansion Castle In The Clouds for awesome mountain views.
Feel like a kid again at Weirs Beach, and ride the roller coasters, play arcade games and go kart.
Go beer tasting at the local breweries (there’s quite a few here!).

One of the most fun tours to take in Lake Winnipesaukee is a ride in an antique boat ! During your day trip, you’ll want to consider booking a tour on the Millie B, where you’ll get to take in the spectacular views of the region, and maybe even spot a loon or two. With each tour on Millie B, guests get free admission to the Boat Museum as well.

Click here to check availability for your vintage boat ride tour on Lake Winnipesaukee!

9. Camden, ME

A great option to consider when looking at day trips from Portland, Maine is Camden. Camden is a beautiful town along the New England coast that has a really great Main Street with shops and restaurants, a really lovely waterfront park, lots of opportunities for sailing, an amazing state park with an incredible view point, and lots of coastal charm at every turn.

Be sure to visit the waterfront during your visit the Camden to see all the amazing sailboats that are docked.

Some of the best things to do in Camden on a day trip from Portland:

Drive or hike up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park for an awesome view of Camden Harbor from above.
Visit the shops and eateries downtown and along Main Street.
Walk along the waterfront to admire the gorgeous sailboats.
Get a lunch picnic from Camden Deli and bring it to a picnic table at the water front park.
Stop in Owl’s Head on your way there or back to visit the lighthouse (it’s worth the extra stop!).

The views from the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park are absolutely worth the trip!

One of the best things to do in Camden, though, is to head out on a sailing tour . Camden has some gorgeous vessels you can climb aboard, and you’ll have the opportunity to admire the landscapes from a unique perspective out on the water. This Windjammer tour is an awesome option, and they have two types of tours: one is a day sail, and the other is a sunset sail if you want to end your day out on the water. You’ll also be able to see Mount Battie and Curtis Island Lighthouse during either sail.

A sunset sail is the perfect way to end your Camden day trip from Portland, Maine.

Click here to check out the Windjammer Daytime Sailing Tour in Camden!

Click here to check out the Windjammer Sunset Sailing Tour in Camden!

10. Boston, MA

Distance From Portland: 2 hours

Even though you’re coming from a city, Boston is always a good idea (at least, that’s just my opinion!). Boston is one of my all-time favorite cities because of its deeply-rooted history, gorgeous architecture, amazing restaurants and charming streets. While Portland also has a lot of that, I still think Boston is one of the best day trips you can take because the two destinations are different enough to make it worth your while.

Boston is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine because of the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood, as well as all the history.

Boston can easily be done in a day, and while you won’t see it all, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground, depending on what you’re looking to do. And definitely don’t forget to make a reservation for dinner if you’re hoping for a special meal out!

Best things to do in Boston on a day trip from Portland:

Stroll through the Public Gardens.
If you like to shop, be sure to hit up Newbury Street and Copely Place.
Explore the most charming streets in the Beacon Hill neighborhood (my favorite thing to do!).
Grab a famous cannoli from Mike’s Pastry.
Walk around one of the many waterfront parks.
Get off-the-beaten-path at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Boston is another destination that makes for a great day trip from Portland, Maine in any season, but fall is especially gorgeous.

Best Boston Day Trip Tours

I highly recommend checking out a tour while in Boston, especially if it’s your first visit, or you’re looking to explore something new. Boston has so many amazing tour options led my local experts that share tons of tips and knowledge.

One great tour to consider on your day trip from Portland, Maine is a Freedom Trail Walking Tour . The Freedom Trail is one of the best things to do in Boston for history buffs (and anyone who wants to appreciate the country’s earliest years). You can definitely walk the trail yourself, and do the whole thing or just parts of it. But if you love history, consider this tour by a local historian to get even more out of your experience.

Click here to check out Freedom Trail History Walking Tour in Boston

For day-trippers, a Hop-on, Hop-off trolley tour is a great choice to cover more ground, and also learn something along the way. Once you get to Boston, I always recommend you park your car for the day and explore on foot, but a trolley tour will allow you to see more sites without having to worry about getting around a historic city in your own car.

Click here to check out the Hop-On, Hop-Off Trolley tickets in Boston

For foodies, definitely check out this North End Foodie Tour , which is led by a local culinary expert that knows all the very best spots. You’ll get recommendations for places to eat during the rest of your visit, and get to sample some amazing treats along the way like meats, cheeses, baked goods, drinks and pizzas. This is a walking tour, so you’ll also get to see some charming streets in the North End for a well-rounded day trip to Boston.

Click here to check out the North End Foodie Tour in Boston

How To Get From Portland, ME To Boston Without A Car

If you don’t have access to a car in Portland, you can take the Amtrak Downeastern train from Portland to Boston for your day trip. The best option is to drive because the train will take you three hours one-way, but if you don’t have access to a car, this is a great option!

11. Rockport, MA

Rockport is one of the best destinations for day trips in Maine if you’re looking to see one of the most charming and unique towns along the Massachusetts coast. It’s definitely my most favorite town in the North Shore region of Massachusetts, and probably one of my all-time favorite destinations in all of New England.

Rockport is such a fun little town on the Massachusetts coast to visit, and is packed with tons of character.

Rockport is small, but feels very special and memorable. The downtown area is packed with awesome and unique shops and eateries, there’s a big local artist scene here, and everywhere you go, you kind of feel like you’re in a postcard. It’s no wonder that Rockport has been used in a lot of movies!

Best things to do in Rockport on a day trip from Portland:

Admire the most painted building in the U.S. – Motif 1.
Stroll through Bearskin Neck and visit all the shops.
Grab a lobster roll at Roy Moore Lobster Company.
Walk on the Rockland Breakwater.
Visit all the art galleries.
Hit the trails at Halibut Point State Park.
Kayak out to Thacher Island to see the lighthouse.
Take a boat tour of the harbor.
Get an ice cream at the cutest little ice cream shack on the East Coast!

Rockport is home to the cutest little ice cream shack on the East Coast!

Psst! I have an entire post on all the amazing things to do in Rockport to help you plan your visit!

12. Marblehead, MA

Marblehead is another amazing day trip from Portland, Maine. It often gets over-shadowed by the neighboring Salem (more on Salem later in the post, though!), but it’s definitely worth a full-day visit, or even a whole weekend. Marblehead has an awesome historic district with beautiful houses to admire, cute little shops and cafes, plenty of waterfront to explore and is even home to some Hocus Pocus filming locations!

Marblehead makes for one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine because of its historic district and all the beautiful homes.

Best things to do in Marblehead on your day trip from Portland:

Explore Chandler Hovey Park and Marblehead Lighthouse.
Visit Devereux Beach.
Pick up some sandwiches and see what else you can find at Shubie’s Marketplace .
Walk around Old Burial Hill Cemetery (a Hocus Pocus filming location). Be sure to find the gazebo at the top to admire the views.
Grab a lobster roll at Little Harbor Lobster Company.
Take in the views at Castle Rock.

Psst! I have an entire post on the best things to do in Marblehead, MA if you need even more ideas.

13. Gloucester, MA

Gloucester is a great day trip from Portland, Maine to consider, and is also only about 15 minutes from Rockport, so you can easily combine the two into one trip if you wanted. Both are excellent destinations to dedicate a full day to, however, so it’s entirely up to you!

Gloucester is an awesome day trip to take from Portland because of the water views and the whale watching.

Gloucester is packed with maritimes history, and also has lots of waterfront to explore. On top of that, though, you’ll find amazing restaurants, a quaint little downtown, a beautiful lighthouse and lots of tour options that get you out onto the water.

Best things to do on a day trip to Gloucester from Portland:

Explore the Gloucester HarborWalk.
Visit Hammond Castle to feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.
Walk along the shore at Good Harbor or Wingaersheek Beach.
Head over to Eastern Point Lighthouse and walk almost a half mile out on the breakwater.
Have a lovely lunch at Sugar Magnolia’s.

One of the best places to go whale watching in the entire world (yes, world!) is actually right here in Gloucester, so this is definitely something you’ll want to consider for your day trip. Whale Watch tours from Gloucester head out to Stellwagen Bank, a national marine preserve that’s only 12 miles offshore. This particular tour is great for day-trippers because the vessel is a high-speed catamaran, so you’ll be able to cover more ground in the same amount of time, allowing you to really maximize your time.

Click here to check out this Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

To get around Gloucester faster and easier, a great option for your day trip is to rent e-bikes ! E-bikes are so much fun to ride, and allow you to pack more into your schedule than just walking. And with e-bikes, you’ll be able to ride some of the bikes through all of Cape Ann since you’ll have them for 8 hours, allowing you to see even more of this gorgeous region.

Click here to check out renting e-bikes in Gloucester

14. Rangeley Lake, ME

Distance From Portland: 2 hours and 30 minutes

The furthest day trip from Portland, Maine is still definitely worth your time! Rangeley Lake in Maine is located in the Northwestern corner of the state, and is a beautiful destination to consider. And actually this region is home to several lakes, and covers a lot of ground, so you’ll have lots of options when it comes to towns to visit, activities on the water and places to eat. Rangelely Lake is also a quiet and peaceful destination, which makes for a wonderful escape from the city.

The Rangeley Lake region in Maine is made up of several picturesque lakes.

Best things to do on a day trip to Rangely Lake from Portland:

Take a scenic drive along the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway.
Cool down at the swimming holes at Small Falls.
Enjoy the views at the Height of Land Overlook.
Drive to the top of Quill Hill for more amazing bird’s eye lake views.
Explore the charming shops in downtown Rangeley.
Rent a kayak and head out onto the water.
Have a lakefront dinner at the Loon Lodge Inn.

For something really fun and special (and a bit of a splurge that’s totally worth it), consider booking a seaplane tour over the region. This tour often spots moose from above on the lake shorelines, so if seeing a moose in Maine is on your list, this will be a great option. You’ll pass over two lakes and get to spot other wildlife as well. Even though it’s a splurge, the price is very fair for a private tour, especially in such a gorgeous area.

Click here to book your Seaplane Tour in Rangeley Lake!

Day Trips From Portland, Maine In the Fall

15. salem, ma.

Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Pretty much any destination in New England is wonderful to visit in the fall, but one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine in the fall is Salem, MA , especially during the month of October. I think Salem is a great town to explore year-round, but of course, there’s something extra fun and special about it in the fall season. From haunted tours, to fun street fairs, to a picture-perfect New England streets covered in leaves, this is one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine you can take during the autumn season.

One of the best tours in Salem is this Hauntings & History walking tour , and you can select either a day option, or a night option if you want to increase the spooky factor. The tour is led by a local historian and shares stories of the town’s incredible history, which dates back to the 1600s.

Click here to book your Hauntings & History Walking Tour in Salem!

If you’re a fan of the movie Hocus Pocus (and honestly, who isn’t?), then you may enjoy this walking tour of the movie’s filming locations in Salem. You’ll see five movie locations, learn some fun trivia about the movie, and also hear about the town’s fascinating history to get the best of both worlds.

Click here to book your Hocus Pocus Filming Locations Tour in Salem!

If you’re looking for a super spooky tour and lots of goosebumps, then you’ll love the Voodoo, Vampires & Ghosts Walking Tour . Done at night, this tour is led by a local history expert and takes you to some of the most haunted locations in town. You’ll also listen to authentic stories from the Salem Witch Trials and hear about ghost sightings around Salem.

Click here to book your Voodoo, Vampires & Ghosts Spooky Walking Tour in Salem!

Psst! I have an entire post on taking a day trip to Salem, MA , if you’re looking for more information!

Day Trips From Portland, Maine Without A Car

In all honestly, getting outside of Portland to explore the local areas without a car is very difficult, and sometimes not even possible. New England in particular really requires a car to get around, and public transportation between towns isn’t great, unless you’re going from one city to another.

But if you’re willing to stay in Portland, and head out for fun tours that will feel like day trips, this is an excellent option if you don’t have a car! Below I’ve also listed two options for companies that will drive you around Maine in a private tour if it works in your budget, and well as one tour in Portland that will feel like an escape.

Best Day Tours From Portland, Maine

A great option for day trips from Portland, Maine without a car is this full-day Maine in the fall tour . This tour will start at Portland Head Light, and take you out to Camden, Bangor and some of the best sites in Acadia National Park, including to the top of Cadillac Mountain and Bass Harbor Lighthouse. You’ll even have time to explore downtown Bar Harbor for a bit. This is a private tour for your group, and considering how much ground you’ll cover, the price for the whole group is very fair! Keep in mind that this is a fall-specific tour, and it’s not available year-round.

Click here to check out this full-day private fall tour from Portland!

If you’re willing to stay in Portland and explore the coastline, this awesome bike tour is 5-hours long, and will make you feel like you’re away from the city. You’ll head out to Cape Elizabeth, and explore the local lighthouses and dramatic coastline views, and also stop for an amazing lobster roll from a food truck that’s included in the tour cost.

Click here to check out this bike tour (with a lobster roll!) around Portland’s coast!

This company offers customized and private luxury tours throughout Maine, and if you’re looking to get around the state from Portland and don’t have access to a car, it’s worth reaching out to them to plan your perfect day trip.

Click here for more information on customized and luxury private day tours from Portland!

Can You Do A Day Trip From Portland, Maine To Acadia?

Yes, you can, but just keep in mind that it will be a long day and you’ll have to carefully plan what sights you really want to see and be strategic. Especially in the summer because of traffic and crowds. The drive is 3-hours one-way, but if your only opportunity to get to Acadia National Park is by taking a day trip, it’s definitely worth it!

The drive through Acadia National Park is always a stunning one.

There’s so much to do in Acadia that I usually recommend at least 2-3 nights, but you can also see a lot on a day trip. With a day, I would recommend doing Ocean Path (walking from Sand Beach to Otter Cliffs), one hike (Great Head or Gorham are both great choices), and then heading into downtown Bar Harbor for dinner before driving home. If your schedule allows, see if you can also do lunch at Jordan Pond House inside the park overlooking the mountains.

Here’s my guide on the perfect Acadia National Park itinerary if you need some day trip ideas, or are planning to spend a few nights there!

Hiking Day Trips From Portland, Maine

The destinations from this list that offer amazing hiking opportunities as a day trip from Portland would be Acadia National Park, Camden (Camden Hills State Park), Conway, Sebago Lake and Rangely Lake.

Hiking in Acadia National Park makes for one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine, as long as you plan your itinerary and budget your time.

Day Trips From Portland, Maine In The Winter

Kennebunkport and Ogunquit are excellent options for days trips from Portland, Maine in the winter because of their holiday celebrations. The Kennunkport Christmas Prelude is one of the best Christmas festivals in New England, and Ogunquit’s Christmas by the Sea event will fill you with all kinds of holiday cheer. And since these two towns are so close to one another, you could easily combine them into one festive day trip.

Once the holiday season is over, a great option for a day trip from Portland, Maine in the winter is to head just a few minutes north to Freeport and explore the charming town covered in snow, explore the trails at Wolfe’s Neck Center & Farm and then head back into town for a very cozy meal at Tuscan Brick Oven Pizza.

Conway, NH from this list is also an awesome day trip in the winter. Known as an incredible ski destination, you’ll be able to hit the slopes, or just enjoy the quaint town and its attractions covered in a beautiful blanket of snow.

More Of My Maine Travel Guides:

Maine In November: Is It Worth Visiting?
Maine In The Spring: Where To Go & What To Do
Maine In October: Best Fall Foliage Spots & Things To Do
Maine In The Winter
Portland, Maine In The Winter
Best Stops To Make On A Portland, Maine To Acadia National Park Road Trip
Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
Where To Find The Best Whoopie Pies In Maine
The Best Maine Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary
Blueberry Picking In Maine
My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary
Maine In The Summer

That’s A Wrap On The Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Now that you know all about the best day trips from Portland, Maine, you’re armed and ready to plan your own perfect day. Whether you’re excited to head to Boston and relive history and enjoy the amazing culinary scene, or you’re looking forward to a quiet day at one of the best lakes in the region, the opportunities for seeing amazing landscapes and taking some awesome tours are endless. Happy planning!

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There's so much charm and whimsy at every turn on Nantucket Island. For this reason, Nantucket is one of the best day trips in summer in New England.

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Peace and solitude: a woman walking in the sand dunes at Camber Sands, East Sussex.

Put yourself first: the top 15 solo trips in the UK

T here’s something wonderfully liberating about travelling alone and the following trips fulfil all the best aspects of being solo. No compromises to be made, no itineraries discussed; get up when you want, eat what you fancy, do nothing or everything, talk to the friendly person next to you at breakfast, or pop in your headphones and ignore them completely. When I’m travelling alone, I become the best version of myself; the most decisive, the most charming, the most curious. I see more, go further, strike up conversations with people I’ll never meet again, yet always remember. And even after 25 years of travelling, I still get the same feeling of satisfaction when I’m home – a quiet sense of pleasure that I did it all on my own.

1. Brixham, Devon

The Berryhead Hotel – surrounded by six acres of gardens with lovely views across Torbay – is a rare find: a hotel with single rooms that are actually half the price of doubles ( from £88 B&B, berryheadhotel.com ). It’s an easy walk into picturesque Brixham, where the town’s fishing fleet fuels a clutch of excellent restaurants; pull up a seat at the counter at Simply Fish, a family-owned restaurant where diners pick their choice of seafood from the fresh fish counter ( simplyfishrestaurant.co.uk ).

2. Wells-next-the-sea, Norfolk

Wells-next-the-Sea Norfolk, view of the quay in the waterfront area of Wells-next-the-Sea on the north Norfolk coast.2BWN1T8 Wells-next-the-Sea Norfolk, view of the quay in the waterfront area of Wells-next-the-Sea on the north Norfolk coast.

Vast skies, tranquil beaches and a delightfully slow pace; the Norfolk coast is a great choice for a solo trip. Book a Cosy Room at the charming Crown Hotel ( from £180 B&B, crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk ), where a complimentary cream tea is the perfect excuse for a lazy afternoon with a book in the comfortable lounge. On a non-cream tea day, book one of the 11 tables at the Wells Crab House, where the friendly team serve delicious seafood, including single oysters and taster portions of everything from crayfish tails to cockles and rollmops ( wellscrabhouse.co.uk ).

3. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Morning yoga classes come free at the lovely Gallivant ( from £215, thegallivant.co.uk ) – a great way to meet fellow guests – along with a weekly programme of classes, encompassing everything from wine-tasting to garden tours. Combine sociability with solo walks along the great swathe of sandy beach at Camber Sands and pop up to the historic town of Rye for supper at the Fig ( thefigrye.com ), with super-friendly staff and a menu of Ottolenghi-esque small plates.

4. Tenby, South Wales

Pack walking boots for a stay in Tenby, where the Pembrokeshire Coast Path leads out on to spectacular clifftop scenery, with the town itself – famous for its picturesque harbour with pastel-hued houses – a lovely friendly spot to return to and ideal for a solo foray. Stay at Trefloyne Manor ( trefloyne.com ), five minutes’ drive out of town and pop in for a spa treatment at the cute Dovecote spa. Pull up a bar stool at Twelve ( twelvetenby.co.uk ), where the friendly bar staff can advise on the ideal glass to match a trio of tapas-style plates – the perfect amount for one.

5. Bude, Cornwall

Get chatting to locals with a kayaking, paddleboarding or surfing class with Free Wave Surf Academy ( freewavesurfacademy.co.uk ), or mix solo strolls along Summerleaze Beach with a dip into the town’s artisan market (Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-3pm). Settle in for a supper of small plates ideally suited for one at Temple (the roof terrace, overlooking Summerleaze, is a dream on warm evenings) and stay at the Beach at Bude ( from £195 B&B, thebeachatbude.co.uk ), a charming Victorian house with rooms decked out in a New England seaside style – with self-catering apartments also available.

6. Buxton, Derbyshire

Crescent Hotel and Spa Grade II-listed building in Buxton Derbyshire recently refurbished with the help of a grant from heritage lottery fund2H765B6 Crescent Hotel and Spa Grade II-listed building in Buxton Derbyshire recently refurbished with the help of a grant from heritage lottery fund

Fancy a solo spa treat, but don’t want to be marooned in a secluded hotel? The Buxton Crescent Spa ( from £193 B&B, ensanahotels.com ) lies at the heart of the Peak District’s most vibrant town, combining thermal pools – including on the rooftop – with a wide programme of treatments. Beyond the hotel, Buxton is an easily navigable, friendly place; spend an hour browsing the 40,000 secondhand titles in Scrivener’s Books ( scrivenersbooks.co.uk ) before lunch at Noonology, where hearty brunch dishes sit alongside vegan poke bowls and pleasingly indulgent cocktails ( noonology.co.uk ).

7. Hay-on-Wye, Powys

Bookish Hay is ideal for solo travellers; bookshops come with armchairs and assistants who are happy to chat and recommend, there are great walks from the centre of town, and the Granary ( thegranaryhay.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch, offering homemade pies, veggie dishes and inventive salads (strawberry and goat’s cheese is particularly good). Atelier Hay is a tranquil bolthole above an art gallery ( from £170, three-night minimum, atelierhay.co.uk ) and if you run out of something to read, the 24-hour open-air Hay Castle Honesty Bookshop ensures you never go to bed without a good book.

8. Ludlow, Shropshire

Surrounded by the rolling hills, Ludlow’s high street is dotted with boutiques, delicatessens and cafés – perfect for a spot of people-watching. A walk along the River Teme gives wonderful views of Ludlow Castle; finish up at the Green Café ( thegreencafe.co.uk ) where small plates of broccoli with melting cheese and orange spice or Ludlow farm steak with green harissa mean you can try two or three dishes without feeling you’ve over ordered. The Cliffe at Dinham ( from £120 B&B, thecliffeatdinham.co.uk ) is a charming restaurant with rooms, 10 minutes’ walk from the centre.

9. Keswick, Cumbria

Who says shepherd’s huts are only for couples? The Mount B&B has a beautiful hut for singles only ( three-night break £240 B&B, themountkeswick.co.uk ), with a woodburning stove and lovely garden views, with the chance to join other guests for breakfasts around the communal dining table in the main house. This is serious walking country, with footpaths from the front door; reward yourself with Mexican-inspired tapas at Es Bar ( esbarltd.co.uk ), with bar seating, dogs welcome and a breezy, chatty atmosphere.

10. Lavenham, Suffolk

England, Suffolk, Lavenham, Swan HotelJ9GBWR England, Suffolk, Lavenham, Swan Hotel

The most picturesque of Suffolk’s historic wool towns, Lavenham has a slow-paced arty feel, with a number of art galleries and boutiques that offer an excellent afternoon’s browsing. Number Ten Wine Bar & Kitchen ( ten-lavenham.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch or supper, with giant barrels providing great tables for one, while the Swan at Lavenham has a cocoon-like warmth, with cosy bedrooms beneath original 15th-century beams ( Lavenham rooms are ideal for singles, from £171 room-only, theswanatlavenham.co.uk ), and a boutique spa. Dogs are welcome at both places.

11. Canterbury

Set within the Cathedral grounds, the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a unique place to stay, with single, en suite rooms ( from £92 B&B, canterburycathedrallodge.org ), with views straight across to the 1,400-year-old church. The rate includes free entry to the cathedral (usually £15), with the city’s historic streets just outside the door. Don’t miss lunch (or just a shopping spree) at the Goods Shed, a daily farmer’s market and restaurant, serving produce from each of the stalls; two starters (maybe octopus, clams and ’nduja or cheddar and truffle beignets) make a perfect meal for one ( thegoodsshed.co.uk ).

Perfect for a solo jaunt, Citizen M has four breezily hip outposts, where the pod-sized rooms are ideal for one ( from £155, citizenm.com ), and the open-plan bar/lounge/restaurant downstairs is a comfortable place to hang out. Borough Market has a great range of places that offer counter dining; Arabica ( arabicalondon.com ) offers lip-smacking Middle Eastern small plates and super-friendly staff, while Wright Brothers ( thewrightbrothers.co.uk ) is so compact it’s almost rude not to start chatting to the person next to you.

The ShamblesRecently voted as the most picturesque street in Britain, 'The Shambles' is a centre piece of historic York.

With an easily walkable historic centre, boasting both York Minster and a picturesque tangle of pedestrianised streets, York is ideal for a solo weekend break. Book a counter seat at Skosh ( skoshyork.co.uk ), to watch small plates of Orkney crab papads, paratha with whipped aubergine brinjal and Peruvian chocolate tart roll out, and stay at No 1 Guesthouse ( from £138 room-only, guesthousehotels.co.uk ), where the well-stocked pantry means there’s always something to nibble on if you fancy a break from eating alone.

14. Edinburgh

Plan a packed itinerary for a trip to Edinburgh with the Kimpton’s Stay Human concierge, which offers a variety of curated experiences – from city walking tours to coffee tasting or personal shopping – all bookable before you arrive. Book a City Single ( from £252, ihg.com ) and spend an evening at Eleanore, where high stools at communal tables encourage chat between locals and visitors, and the pared-down menu of artfully presented dishes is ideal for a solo dinner ( eleanore.uk ).

15. Bristol

Buzzy and bohemian, Bristol combines West Country warmth with a hip urban feel and a clutch of excellent galleries – from contemporary artworks at the Arnolfini to more than 70 artists, makers and designers at Spike Island ( spikeisland.org.uk ). Book a Broom Cupboard or Shoe Box at the hip Artist’s Residence (from £185, artistresidence.co.uk ) – small rooms with striking artworks that are perfect for one – and bag a seat at the bar at Marmo ( marmo.restaurant ) for their excellent value set lunch (two/three courses £22/25) or a dinner of Italian small plates.

Book yourself into a retreat that’s perfect for pampering solo guests

1. homefield grange, northamptonshire.

Offering tailor-made programmes for everything from weight loss to detox or simple rest and rejuvenation, Homefield Grange offers the chance to restore internal balance with a focus on self-care ( homefieldgrangeretreat.co.uk ).

2. The Glasshouse, Essex

The UK’s first purpose-built wellness retreat, The Glasshouse in Bulphan, Essex, offers a daily programme of wellness activities – from hiking and mindfulness to plant-based cooking – set in seven acres of countryside ( glasshouseretreat.co.uk ).

3. Gaia House, Devon

For those looking for a more spiritual retreat, Gaia offers silent meditation retreats from various Buddhist traditions, led by experienced Dharma teachers. Group retreats last from two to 10 days ( gaiahouse.co.uk ).

4. Glen Dye, Aberdeenshire

Making the most of the spectacular surroundings, Glen Dye offers a wellness programme of foraging walks, forest bathing, wild swimming and Vinyasa yoga, with breathing workshops and a wood-fired sauna to relax in ( glendyecabinsandcottages.com ).

5. The Detox Barn, Suffolk

Book a weekend retreat, courtesy of the dynamic Gavin sisters, who offer yoga classes, guided walks and meditation, vegan suppers and an “intention- setting” session around an open fire ( gavinsisters.co.uk ).

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Niagara Falls | Destination Ontario

Explore the outdoors

Cycling trips and tours, soak in culture, foodie experiences, relax in nature, develop new skills, on this page, trip ideas for solo travellers in ontario.

Ontario offers an array of unique outdoor and urban experiences perfectly suited for the solo traveller.

Benefits of travelling alone

Solo travellers are more apt to meet and mingle with new people. This is especially true on group tours and guided adventures where fellow travellers share similar interests.

On the flip side, for some, solitude, peace and time of self-reflection are the purpose of a solo trip. And there’s no need to compromise on what activities to do or which restaurants to try. When you’re travelling alone, the decision-making is all your own.

Ontario is great for solo travellers

Canada is known as a safe place to travel. Of course, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be prepared, especially when travelling alone. Get safety tips and emergency information in Ontario.

Because Canada is also a popular travel destination, Ontario welcomes visitors from all over the world. This means single and solo travellers will join a global community of like-minded adventurers in Ontario.

Trip ideas for solo travellers

Here’s a list of fun guided and self-guided activities and getaways that welcome individuals.

Find adventure on the St. Lawrence River with Dive Brockville

The St. Lawrence River is known to provide some of the best freshwater scuba diving experiences in the world. Join Abucs Scuba Charters on a guided, group (2 to 12) diving charter aboard the Helen C. pontoon. Alternatively, paddle the 1000 Islands by kayak or stand up paddleboard . Rentals are available from a couple of hours up to a full week.

Location: 12 Water Street East, Brockville

Visit Scenic Caves with Travelling Chicken

Explore fascinating caves and caverns, cross an exciting suspension bridge and hike to gorgeous lookouts along the southern coast of Georgian Bay.

Travelling Chicken offers guided adventure tours in Ontario. The company’s founder travelled solo as a newcomer to Canada, so takes special care to accommodate guests who are booking for one.

Available on select dates from May to October.

Location: Round trips depart from Toronto. Scenic Caves is located at 260 Scenic Caves Road, The Blue Mountains

Day trips with ParkBus

Travel from Toronto to great hiking destinations like MacGregor Point Provincial Park, Algonquin Provincial Park or Bruce Peninsula National Park on a day trip with ParkBus. Multi-day transportation can be arranged for some destinations.

Also check for upcoming group hikes, a great option if you’re looking to mingle with other nature lovers.

Location: Depart from pick-up locations are in Toronto, with various destinations available.

Whitewater kayaking and canoeing at Madawaska Kanu Centre

Located along the banks of the Madawaska River in Ottawa Valley, Madawaska Kanu Centre provides guests with a full suite of packages and programs designed to teach and improve kayaking and canoeing skills and to introduce the joy of whitewater paddling.

You can even create a customized itinerary and craft your perfect water-based getaway.

Location: 247 River Road, Barry’s Bay

See the mighty Niagara Falls

Whether it’s your first or fifth time, seeing the majestic Niagara Falls never fails to impress. Make a day trip or overnight getaway to soak in the spectacular sight with Journey Behind the Falls or on a boat tour with Niagara City Cruises .

Travel seamlessly and car-free with GO Transit service from Toronto combined with WEGO bus service in Niagara Falls.

Location: Niagara Falls

Toronto Bicycle Tours

Explore the diverse pockets and neighbourhoods of Toronto that give the city its unique personality with local guides. Most tours will require a minimum number of participants, so you’ll get to share the experience with fellow travellers. Bike, helmet and water is included.

Location: downtown Toronto

Gravelocity Cycling Tours

Cruise the scenic backroads of Southern Ontario on a weekend cycling getaway with all the planning and logistics included so all you have to do is ride and enjoy.

Locations: upcoming trip locations include Peterborough, Elora and Fergus and Oxford County

Humdinger Bicycle Tours

Single and multi-day, both guided and self-guided cycling tours are offered for cyclists of all skill levels from novice and recreational to advanced. Also guided women-only bikepacking and gravel clinics in Simcoe or Haliburton are a great option for solo women travellers.

Location: trips focus on Georgian Bay, Muskoka and Haliburton

Pedal Pushers Cycling

For more women-only cycling clinics and tours, check out the various programs offered in Central Ontario.

Locations: Collingwood and Muskoka

Visit Ontario by Bike for more guided rides and cycling tour events and ideas.

Self-guided walking tour in Orillia

Take an art tour through Orillia's Arts District where a collection of galleries display niche, locally-made creations.

Location: downtown Orillia

City walking tours with Tour Guys

The best way to learn about a city is to explore it on foot. But navigating a new place on your own can be overwhelming. Tour Guys invite you on a fun and informative walking tours by locals who love their city.

Locations: Toronto, Ottawa and Hamilton

Take in a film festival

From spring and summer events like Hot Docs and the International Film Festival of South Asia to the Toronto International Film Festival which kicks off the fall film festival season , there’s a lot to keep film buffs busy in Toronto, Ottawa and beyond.

Locations: across Ontario

Cooking class at Little John Farm

Little John Farm is an organic farm and garden in picturesque Prince Edward County. The farm offers hands-on open group cooking classes on select weekends during the summer. Not only will you have the opportunity to create a wonderful meal with fellow foodies, but you’ll also enjoy it together. Spots are limited, so you’ll want to book early.

Location: 908 County Road 10, Picton

Guided walking food tour in Midland

Embark on a fun three-hour stroll in downtown Midland with a local guide to sample signature dishes and drinks at over half a dozen restaurants. Group sizes are kept small. Dress comfortably and come hungry!

Location: downtown Midland

Backcountry cooking with Rare Escape

Truly a unique outdoor culinary experience, Rare Escape is a husband and wife duo that guide guests on a cooking adventure in the woods.

Location: The Kawarthas

Cocktail classes at Elora Distilling Company

Pick up new mixology skills as you learn to craft three different cocktails, including classics and new creations.

You’ll want to stay locally so you can walk yourself home after the class. Luckily Elora has some fabulous accommodation options , including the luxurious Elora Mill Hotel & Spa .

Location: 102 Metcalfe Street, Unit 4, Elora

Guided foraging tour with Puck’s Plenty

Up your culinary game by learning how to identify wild edible plants and how to incorporate them into your cooking. Take a professionally led foraging tour along woodland trails in Southern Ontario.

Location: Stratford

Forest bathing at Wild by Nature Forest Sanctuary

Set out on an immersive self guided forest bathing experience through this private forest sanctuary and find unique and peaceful places to connect with nature.

Wild by Nature Forest Sanctuary is located along the Bruce Peninsula, a UNESCO World Biosphere.

Location: 953 Dyers Bay Road, Miller Lake

Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain

In addition to soothing indoor and outdoor pools and spa treatments, there’s also a tranquil onsite forest bathing trail at Scandinave Spa.

Location: 152 Grey County Road 21, The Blue Mountains

Go off-grid with Cabinscape

If a cozy and environmentally low impact off-grid cabin overlooking a lake and surrounded by forest sounds like the right fit for your solo getaway, check out the tiny cabin rentals throughout Southeastern Ontario.

Location: Haliburton Forest, Kawarthas, Ottawa Valley and Lanark County

Goat yoga at Haute Goat

Haute Goat is a whimsical farm in Port Hope that’s home to alpacas, Icelandic horses and an adorable herd of Nigerian dwarf goats. Tour the farm, meet all the furry residents and practice “caprine vinyasa”, a gentle style of yoga stretching as goats mingle and entertain you.

Location: 1166 5th Line, Port Hope

Glamping getaway at Whispering Springs

Treat yourself to a luxurious, nature inspired getaway in one of the unique glamping tents and cabins at Whispering Springs. All-inclusive packages make it easy to just relax and enjoy the comfort and serenity.

Location: 141 Mercer Lane, Grafton

Retreat for one at Sugar Ridge Retreat Centre

From yoga and meditation to hiking and nature viewing, you’ll find yourself relaxed and centred after a visit to this peaceful retreat that caters to individuals.

Location: 5720 Forgets Road, Wyebridge

Glass blowing workshop with Yours Outdoors

Book a half day workshop to learn the basics of glassblowing at Artech Studios. After an engaging tour and demonstration, you’ll be able to try your hand at creating your own stunning glass pieces.

Yours Outdoors connects visitors like you with local art, outdoor, food, drink and cultural experiences.

Location: Haliburton Highlands

Fly fishing with Grand River Outfitting

Learn the art of fly fishing on one of Ontario’s popular rivers including the Grand, Saugeen, Maitland, Thames or the Upper Credit. Grand River Outfitting will help connect you with a local guide.

Location: Southern Ontario

Algonquin Park Photography with Algonquin Adventure Tours

Algonquin Adventure Tours is one of Ontario’s top outdoor tour companies and has been operating in Algonquin for over 25 years. This private photography workshop is all about getting you water access to beautiful wildlife and landscapes in one of Canada’s most treasured parks.

Location: based out of Dwight, tours in Algonquin Provincial Park

Photography workshop with Follow Me North

Connect with local professional photographers at Follow Me North to arrange a private and ethical wildlife photography guiding and coaching session at Aspen Valley Wildlife.

This is an experience of a lifetime for budding photographers and animal lovers.

And to sweeten the deal, proceeds go back to the sanctuary.

Location: Rosseau, Muskoka

Happy hour at the Ottawa Art Gallery

Bring your love of art to the Ottawa Art Gallery and enjoy a drink, snack, art-focused discussion and hands-on creativity during this elevated happy hour.

Check online for upcoming event dates. Pre-registration is required and all the art materials will be provided.

Location: 50 Mackenzie King Bridge, Ottawa

Get more information on guided tours in Ontario as well as road trip ideas and itineraries .

Adventure by bike to Northern Ontario historic places

Close-up view of sample desserts on a wooden tray.

Follow Ontario’s best food tours and trails

A group of people walking down Graffiti Alley in Toronto.

Art, mural and graffiti walking tours in Ontario

Last updated: April 11, 2024

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.

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13 Perfect Weekend Trips for Solo Female Travelers
Getting there: Fly into Redmond Municipal Airport and rent a car to drive the 20 miles south down Highway 97 to Bend. 5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. If you're looking for a peaceful solo weekend in nature, consider Rocky Mountain National Park. The wildlife like to come out in the spring.
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Santa Fe, New Mexico. Solo travelers seeking clear skies and a laid-back trip should consider visiting Santa Fe. Offering more than 320 days of sunshine per year and plenty of things to do, this ...
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Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone ...
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If you decide to share your newfound escape with others, a circa-1790 four-bedroom cottage sleeps 12 comfortably for a private escape with friends. Get back to nature with on-site fly-fishing, hiking, and tennis. The inn's restaurant also uses as much local produce as possible.
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2. The Big Island of Hawaii. The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places for adventurous solo female travelers. With volcanoes, world-class dive and snorkeling sites, interesting beaches, and miles of hiking trails, there's more to discover on the Big island than any other island in Hawaii.
Discover the Ultimate Solo Adventure: 31 Unforgettable Things to Do
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar above the desert at sunrise for a truly unique solo adventure. Chase Waterfalls at Tonto Natural Bridge: A short drive from Phoenix, this natural wonder is a great day trip for solo travelers. Phoenix Art Museum: Delve into the world of art and culture.
The 12 Very Best NJ Day Trips You Can Possibly Take
When you've perused as many shops as you can, stop by the Indian Tavern Museum (open Wednesday-Sunday) for a dose of local history. 10. The Tuckerton Seaport, Tuckerton. Tuckerton Seaport Museum, 120 W Main St, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, USA. The Tuckerton Seaport/Facebook.
31 Fun Things to do Alone in Miami (Ideal for Solo Travelers!)
If you're looking for relaxing things to do alone in Miami, consider the search over with the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden. This place is tucked away in Coral Gables which is extremely close to downtown Miami. Here you'll find an eclectic mix of exotic plants, butterfly gardens, and hummingbird enclosures that let solo travelers ...
The 16 Best Solo Wellness Retreats in the U.S. [2023]
Retreat rates include accommodation, meals, yoga, and activities, starting at $2,050 in a Sky View Cabin featuring a terrace with a view and telescope or $2,500 in a Spring Bungalow featuring a private, custom Sonoma stone soaking tub. 3. Honor's Haven Retreat (New York) — Best Affordable Solo Wellness Retreat.
21 Terrific Day Trips in Texas
13 of the Most Haunted Places in Texas. Here, in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the old steam locomotives still run, and you can be a part of it. Book an open car, a dome car, or even a caboose for a 2 ½ hour journey through the pines of East Texas. This day trip is absolutely perfect as an outing for the whole family.
10 Best USA Tours for Singles / Solo Travelers
250+ USA tours for Singles / Solo Travelers with 13,599 reviews Save and compare this adventure. View Map . Explorer ; Family ... 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours; Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews) Travel Styles. Budget (63) Luxury (68) ...
11 Solo Trips in California to Take at Least Once
Napa Valley. If relaxing is high up on your travel to-do list, then Napa Valley is a solo road trip in California you should strongly consider. Hike, bike, eat, and treat yourself to a spa day on the solo weekend getaway in California you'll remember forever. Whether you're heading there for just a day or a full weekend, you have enough ...
25 Best Day Trips in New Jersey
Fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking are also popular throughout the park, which is home to a half-mile self-guided loop nature trail. More New Jersey day trip ideas for couples. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, New Jersey 08006, Phone: 609-494-2016.
The Best Day Trips in NJ by Region
732-842-4000 ext. 4312. The Manasquan Reservoir is the perfect outdoor day trip idea for any nature enthusiast. Set on 1,208 acres of land and water it is the perfect place in Monmouth county to go fishing, take a rowboat or kayak on the water or just walk along their 5-mile perimeter trail.
15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)
Luray Caverns. If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns. The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia's underground ...
Take a Solo Trip to New York State
For a nighttime experience, try the two-hour Lantern Tour—offered by reservation-only Friday and Saturday nights in the summer and on select weekends in the winter. The Lantern Tour is only for guests 16 years of age and older. Price varies and reservations must be made online. Open everyday 9am-5pm through Labor Day.
8 Michigan Day Trips Perfect for A Quick Getaway
5. Observe Lake Michigan Beauty and History in Charlevoix. The Lake Michigan beauty, Charlevoix, that Forbes named one of America's Prettiest Towns has been a tourism hotspot since 1881 and it shows no sign of slowing. Center the day around lively Bridge Street and the picture-perfect marina on Round Lake.
15 Awesome Day Trips From Portland, Maine (2024)
4. Boothbay Harbor, ME. Distance From Portland: 1 hour and 10 minutes. One of my favorite small waterfront towns in all of Maine is Boothbay Harbor, and this makes for one of the best day trips from Portland, Maine. Even though it's such a short drive away, you'll definitely feel like you're in a different world.
Put yourself first: the top 15 solo trips in the UK
12. London. Perfect for a solo jaunt, Citizen M has four breezily hip outposts, where the pod-sized rooms are ideal for one ( from £155, citizenm.com ), and the open-plan bar/lounge/restaurant ...
Trip ideas for solo travellers
Single and multi-day, both guided and self-guided cycling tours are offered for cyclists of all skill levels from novice and recreational to advanced. Also guided women-only bikepacking and gravel clinics in Simcoe or Haliburton are a great option for solo women travellers. Location: trips focus on Georgian Bay, Muskoka and Haliburton.

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