Best places to travel solo female in US. Here is your ultimate guide to going on trips alone in major urban areas in the Untied States.
In my opinion, USA solo travel gives women a ton of cities to choose from. Of course, they all give you an empowering mix of autonomy, adventure, and confidence in every experience.
As a woman explores new places entirely on her own, she also has to deal with planning, navigating, and so much more.
So, if you’re planning trip, this article will have everything you need!
Best Places to Travel Solo Female in U.S.
I always start with a solo travel vision board. After all, you want to “see” it before going, right?
Best places to travel solo female in US tend to be a beautiful mix of things. For instance, expect feeling free, adventurous, and so empowered.
As you will see, each city has something unique. From lively culture, friendly locals, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of ways to explore at your own pace.
You will find places that let you recharge, challenge yourself, and connect with others.
AND without ever feeling alone.
Meanwhile, solo travel requires being smart—not paranoid—to take a few precautions. For example, travel insurance.
Travel insurance is SO important! It’s really your safety net for unexpected issues.
For example, think of medical emergencies, cancellations, or lost luggage, to name a few.
Of course, you should also always let someone back home know your general itinerary. It’s simple accountability that gives everyone peace of mind.
And before heading anywhere new read reviews and research the area. For instance, a hotel, tour, or even a café.
A quick online check can help you avoid scams, unsafe neighborhoods, or overpriced traps.
So, yeah, these steps don’t take away the adventure—they just make sure you’re free to enjoy it with confidence and fewer “oops” moments along the way.
New York City
Without a doubt, New York City is one of the best places to travel solo female in US!
If you’re traveling to the Big Apple, you are in for a treat. This is like the ultimate confidence test—and reward.
It’s big, bold, and buzzing 24/7.
My first solo trip here taught me two things: one, walking shoes are your best friend; and two, nobody cares what you’re doing—liberating, right?
I stayed in a cozy hostel near the Lower East Side. Travelers swapped stories over bagels and coffee.
Days were spent museum-hopping. The Met, MoMA, and even the smaller Neue Galerie are worth it.
And nights were for people-watching in Greenwich Village or catching live jazz in Harlem.
In terms of safety, NYC has come a long way. Stick to well-lit areas at night, trust your gut with people, and use apps like Citymapper to avoid getting lost in the subway maze.
For the budget conscious, I would encourage you to grab a MetroCard (digitally these days) and eat like a local.
Oh, the dollar pizza, falafel wraps, and food trucks save both time and cash.
Yes, New York City is loud, unapologetic, and endlessly inspiring. As a solo female traveler, it gives you the rare gift of blending in while feeling totally alive.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles and I had a slow-burn kind of relationship. No, really.
On my first solo visit, I was overwhelmed by how spread out everything was.
The beach was like an hour drive from the Hollywood area!
But once I stopped trying to “see it all” and let LA come to me, I started to love it.
What makes LA one of the best places to travel solo female in US is the freedom.
One day you’re doing yoga on Venice Beach, the next you’re wandering vintage shops in Silver Lake.
Or, sipping matcha in West Hollywood pretending you’re auditioning for your own movie.
Of course, I think you should rent a car if you car. It’s the only real way to explore without losing hours to rideshares.
The LA Metro rail system has 110 stations, compared to NYC’s nearly 500 subway ones!
Anyway, I stayed in a small boutique hostel in Santa Monica. It was safe, clean, and a block from the ocean.
Evenings meant sunset walks on the pier or catching outdoor movies under the stars.
LA can feel intimidating, but people are friendlier than they look (unless they’re late for a meeting).
The key to loving Los Angeles as a solo female traveler in the US?
Take it slow.
Skip the tourist checklist, chase sunsets instead, and let yourself be a little starry-eyed—it’s part of the city’s magic.
Chicago
Chicago is on this list because, well, it’s one of the best places to travel solo female in US!
Here is a city that manages to feel both big and cozy at once.
One of my solo trip here started with deep-dish pizza and ended with windblown hair on the Riverwalk.
And yes, the “Windy City” nickname is no joke—pack layers!
Chicago is perfect for solo female travelers who love culture but crave calm.
You can spend a morning at the Art Institute (home to some serious masterpieces) and an afternoon kayaking on the Chicago River.
I loved wandering the Loop, grabbing coffee in independent cafes, and listening to street performers on Michigan Avenue.
Public transport is reliable, neighborhoods are walkable, and the locals?
Surprisingly warm.
I love staying near Lincoln Park. The area is safe, leafy, and full of great brunch spots.
Nights out feel secure, especially in lively but well-patrolled areas like Wicker Park.
For those on a budget, the Chicago CityPASS saves you money on major attractions.
But honestly, some of my favorite moments were free. For example, watching the skyline from Millennium Park or joining locals for an outdoor concert.
For solo female travel in the US, Chicago hits that sweet spot: big-city energy without the chaos.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you love traveling alone—you set the pace, and the city rolls with it.
Miami
Miami is one of the best places to travel solo female in US.
Why? This is a town where a solo trip turns into a sun-soaked self-care retreat.
One of my earliest times I came here, I spent three days barefoot. Sand, boardwalks, dance floors—it’s all part of the rhythm.
South Beach has that electric buzz, but if you’re traveling solo, balance the nightlife with quieter mornings by the water.
I love staying in Coconut Grove. For example, this is still tropical, but with a calmer, more local vibe.
Rent a bike, cruise through Wynwood’s colorful murals, and stop for Cuban coffee that’ll keep you caffeinated for hours.
Safety is just about being smart. For instance, watch your drinks, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid overly flashy jewelry.
Miami is safe, but it rewards awareness.
Budget can get tricky here, so mix splurges (hello, rooftop cocktail) with wallet-friendly eats (Cuban sandwiches that will change your life).
Public transport isn’t amazing, but Uber and bikes work fine for short distances.
Miami feels is a mood—colorful, sultry, and unapologetically fun.
It’s not just beaches and parties; it’s a place to recharge, move, and maybe rediscover your wild side.
Oahu
Why is Oahu one of the best places to travel solo female in US?
If paradise had a “solo traveler” setting, Oahu would be it.
It’s where I go when I need a reset—and leave feeling like a new person.
Hawaii’s warmth isn’t just in the weather; locals are genuinely kind and welcoming.
For example, this island gives you that rare combo of relaxation and adventure.
You can snorkel in Hanauma Bay in the morning, hike Diamond Head by afternoon, and still have time to watch the sunset at Waikiki Beach.
Hostels here are surprisingly friendly and clean—especially near Honolulu.
I tend to make instant travel friends while planning hikes and sharing poke bowls.
Getting around is easiest with a rental car, though TheBus system covers most major spots affordably.
Oahu is also incredibly safe, but it’s smart to hike popular trails during daylight.
And tell someone where you’re going!
The vibe is laid-back—no rush, no stress, just ocean air and open skies.
If you’re thinking of a solo trip that feels equal parts healing and thrilling, Oahu is it.
It’s the kind of place that teaches you how to breathe again.
Boston
Boston is one of the best places to travel solo female in US because….
This town is like the reliable friend who always shows up on time—clean, charming, and smarter than you.
My solo trips here tend to be one long walk through history and cobblestone streets, with coffee breaks every few blocks.
For instance, I think Boston is safe and manageable. It’s SO friendly!
The T (that’s the subway) is easy to navigate, and most neighborhoods—like Back Bay and Beacon Hill—are pedestrian-friendly and postcard pretty.
I love staying near Fenway, close to everything but still quiet enough to feel relaxed.
Days start with exploring the Freedom Trail and end at cozy Irish pubs with live music.
The city’s energy is intelligent but unpretentious. For example, expect students, locals, and travelers all mingling effortlessly.
Budget tip? Grab a CharlieCard for discounted transit, and hit up free attractions like Boston Common or the Harborwalk.
The food scene is fantastic. Expect fresh seafood, Italian in the North End, and underrated coffee culture everywhere.
Boston is one of the best places to travel solo female in the US because it blends history, safety, and personality.
It’s cultured without being cold—a perfect city for thoughtful wandering.
What to Avoid
Okay, let’s get real for a second. Solo travel isn’t all sunsets and cute cafés.
For instance, knowing what to avoid can make or break your trip.
SO, first off—avoid overpacking. You’ll regret dragging that extra suitcase up subway stairs in New York or through LA’s airport sprawl.
Trust me.
Stick to a carry-on and plan to re-wear outfits.
Second, avoid sketchy accommodation deals. Always check reviews—especially in a city you have never been to before.
Pay a little more for safety and cleanliness. It’s worth it.
Also, avoid isolating yourself. Even if you love solitude, join a group tour or cooking class now and then.
You’ll meet great people and feel less like you’re on your own island.
And of course—avoid ignoring your instincts. If a street feels off, a stranger seems too persistent, or something doesn’t sit right, leave.
Your safety is more important than being polite.
Solo travel is empowering because you get to call the shots.
Avoid the avoidable, stay aware, and the rest?
Absolute adventure.
Enjoy your trip!
Lena Wilson writes about fashion, beauty, and more for Caravanzers.
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