Taking your first solo trip is a wild mix of excitement and nerves. You want the freedom to explore on your own, but let’s be real—you also want to feel safe and comfortable.
Luckily, the US has plenty of cities that nail that sweet spot. Some places just make it easy: great public transport, walkable neighborhoods, and locals who don’t mind chatting with a newcomer. Others pull you in with jaw-dropping scenery, killer food, or activities that are just as fun solo as with a group.
I’ve rounded up seven US cities that I think are perfect for solo travelers in 2026. Each one brings something special—whether you’re into nature, culture, or just soaking up city vibes. Let’s jump in.
1) Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s got a vibe that makes solo travel feel easy. The welcoming environment and low crime rate (at least compared to other big cities) mean you can wander most areas during the day without worry.
Coffee shops are everywhere—seriously, you’ll never be far from a cozy spot to regroup or just people-watch. The city’s techy crowd is surprisingly friendly, and you’ll blend right in.
Pike Place Market is a must. The fishmongers actually toss salmon, and the local crafts are fun to browse. The Space Needle gives you those classic views, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is a feast for the eyes. If you’re up for it, hop on a ferry across Puget Sound.
Getting around is simple. The light rail links the airport to downtown, and buses reach most neighborhoods you’ll want to check out.
Just keep in mind, safety can change by neighborhood and time of day. I always look up specific areas before heading out, and I stick to well-lit places after dark.
If you like mixing city life with nature and culture, Seattle’s got you covered. It never feels overwhelming, but you’ll never run out of things to do.
2) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh surprised me with how safe and lively it felt. The downtown area ranks among the safest in the country, with low property crime.
You can walk around most neighborhoods with confidence. The city’s crime rate stays lower than a lot of other major destinations. Just keep an eye on your stuff, like you would anywhere.
There’s a ton to do solo: world-class museums, those old-school inclines with killer views, and the Strip District’s markets. Downtown is compact, so you can get around on foot or with public transit.
Locals are genuinely friendly, which makes everything less intimidating. Hotels and restaurants are affordable, and the neighborhoods near downtown offer safe places to stay close to the action.
Stick to busier areas at night, and you’ll be just fine.
3) Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is all about that southern charm and history. The walkable layout and welcoming locals make solo exploring a breeze.
I recommend staying in the Historic District—it’s the safest and most beautiful part. Those 22 leafy squares are perfect for taking a breather between sights. You can reach most attractions on foot, so you rarely need to wander into unfamiliar areas.
Safety here depends on location. Stick to the touristy and well-lit parts, especially after dark. The waterfront and main historic spots always have people around, which helps.
Savannah isn’t overwhelming for first-timers. The scale is manageable, and locals will actually stop to give you directions or tips.
Book a spot in the Historic District for the best experience. You’ll have museums, parks, and restaurants right at your doorstep.
4) Portland, Oregon
Portland just feels right for solo travelers. It’s got walkable neighborhoods and a laid-back, friendly vibe. You can see most of the city on foot—no tricky transit puzzles to solve.
People here are approachable. If you’re anxious about traveling alone, you’ll find it easy to ask for help or suggestions.
Powell’s City of Books is a dream for bookworms. Washington Park is full of green spaces and gardens where you can unwind. The food scene? Endless options, and nobody bats an eye at solo diners.
Portland is open about public safety. I always check current info before I go, and the high walk scores downtown mean you’re never too far from something interesting.
You can hike a trail in the morning and hit an art gallery in the afternoon. The mix of outdoor and urban activities keeps things fresh.
5) Austin, Texas
Austin brings together southern charm and big city energy. The locals are chatty—you’ll end up talking to strangers at coffee shops, food trucks, and especially at live music venues.
You can walk or use the city’s bike-share to get around. Downtown stays bright and busy at night, which helps you feel secure. If you want to go farther, public transit is easy enough.
Music is everywhere. From tiny bars on Sixth Street to big-name concerts, you’ll never lack options. And the food? Tacos, barbecue, food trucks—just go hungry.
Daytime brings outdoor fun. Zilker Park is a green oasis, Lady Bird Lake is popular for kayaking or paddleboarding, and Barton Springs Pool is always a cool 68 degrees.
Austin makes solo travelers feel welcome. You can join group tours, check out free events, or just wander at your own pace.
6) Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis surprised me with its mix of city perks and natural beauty. It’s friendly, accessible, and just feels easy for solo travelers.
The locals bring that classic Midwestern hospitality. If you need directions or advice, people are happy to help.
There’s plenty to do on your own. The Chain of Lakes is great for walking or biking, museums are top-notch, and lots of restaurants have bar seating for solo diners. The public transit system is reliable and neighborhoods are walkable.
Minneapolis and its neighboring capital region have strong community safety programs. You’ll find welcoming places to stay and inclusive spaces all over the city.
Want nature? Bike scenic trails, stroll through parks, or just hang by the riverfront. You don’t have to leave urban comforts behind.
If you’re watching your budget, Minneapolis is a win. Prices are reasonable and the city still delivers quality experiences and cool attractions.
7) Denver, Colorado
Denver is the perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure. The mountain views are everywhere, and they never get old.
Locals are friendly, and the city’s coffee culture means you’ll always find a spot to relax or plan your day. Downtown is walkable, so you don’t need a car to explore.
There’s no shortage of things to do. You’ve got the Denver Art Museum, tons of breweries if you’re into craft beer, and plenty of local events. I love how you can spend the day museum-hopping or just chilling at a street festival.
Safety is solid here, which is reassuring when you’re on your own. You’ll see plenty of other solo travelers, so you won’t feel out of place.
Denver also works as a gateway to mountain adventures. You get all the city perks but you’re never far from hiking trails or outdoor fun.
Safety Tips for Solo Travelers
Staying safe while traveling solo isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little planning. I always focus on three things: knowing where I’m going, figuring out transit ahead of time, and keeping in touch with someone back home.
Researching Local Neighborhoods
Before I book a place, I check crime stats for the neighborhood. Most city police departments share this info online, and it’s easy to compare different areas.
I also read recent reviews from other solo travelers. I look for comments about walking around at night and the general vibe. Reviews from the last six months are the most helpful.
Google Street View is my secret weapon. I do a virtual walk through the area before I go. It helps me spot well-lit streets and busy spots, so things feel familiar when I arrive.
Key things I check:
- How close is public transit? Check here.
- Are there grocery stores or restaurants nearby?
- Is street lighting good?
- Where’s the nearest police station?
- Any 24-hour businesses or services around?
Using Public Transportation Safely
I always download the official transit app before I arrive. Real-time schedules and maps make life so much easier, and I don’t have to look lost with a paper map.
When I’m waiting for a train or bus, I stick near other people. Empty cars or stations? I skip them if I can. Keeping my phone charged means I can call a rideshare if public transit doesn’t feel safe.
I keep my transit card or payment handy—no digging through my bag in public. I hold my stuff close, especially in crowds, because pickpockets love busy places.
Staying Connected with Loved Ones
I share my daily plans with someone I trust. I give them my accommodation address, what I’m up to, and when I expect to be back. If plans change, I shoot them a quick update.
Regular check-ins are a must. One text in the evening is enough to let people know I’m safe. If I miss it, they know to check in.
A portable battery is a lifesaver. I turn on location sharing with a couple of trusted contacts, just in case. I also save local emergency numbers, including the nearest US embassy or consulate if I’m traveling from abroad.
Enhancing Your Solo Travel Experience
Connecting with locals and picking the right place to stay can turn a good solo trip into something you’ll never forget. These are the things that really shape your experience.
Engaging with Local Culture
The best way to get to know a city? Dive into local life. I love finding neighborhood coffee shops, farmers markets, and restaurants where residents actually hang out. Chatting with baristas, shop owners, or fellow travelers always leads to good tips.
Walking tours with local guides are a game changer. You get insider stories and usually meet other solo travelers. Lots of cities offer free tours, so you can learn about the history and culture without breaking the bank.
Trying a cooking class or art workshop is another fun way to connect. You pick up new skills and meet people naturally.
I always check event calendars for festivals or street fairs. It’s the best way to see how locals really live and celebrate.
Choosing Accommodations for Solo Travelers
Where you stay shapes your entire solo adventure. I’ve found that hostels with private rooms strike a great balance—they give you a safe spot to recharge, but you can still wander into a common area and meet fellow travelers over coffee or a board game.
More hostels these days cater to older solo travelers too. Some keep things quieter, so you can actually sleep.
Here’s what I always look for when booking a place:
- Walkable, well-lit neighborhoods
- 24-hour front desk or security (peace of mind matters)
- Reviews from other solo travelers—those are gold
- Social spots like lounges or shared kitchens
- Easy access to buses or trains
Boutique hotels often land right in the sweet spot between privacy and connection. Staff at smaller spots tend to remember your name and share local tips you’d never find online.
Sometimes, you’ll stumble into a hotel wine hour or a breakfast gathering where guests chat about their plans for the day. I’ve made a few travel buddies this way.
If you’re craving total independence, vacation rentals are hard to beat. Pick a spot in a residential neighborhood to get a real feel for daily life and maybe shop at a local market.
Always read recent reviews and check if the host actually responds—nothing’s worse than radio silence when you need help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every US city brings something different for solo travelers. Some places are budget-friendly, others focus on safety, and a few stand out for their social scenes. I’ve bounced around enough to know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
You’ll find coastal towns that won’t break the bank and cities with lively, welcoming communities. It’s all about what you’re after.
Pittsburgh surprised me with how affordable it is. You’ll pay less for a bed than in most coastal cities, and the free attractions—like the Andy Warhol Museum on certain days—are a sweet bonus.
Public transportation here doesn’t cost much, so you can get around easily.
Savannah is another wallet-friendly pick. The historic district is compact and walkable, so you skip expensive cabs. Some of the best experiences, like wandering through leafy squares or relaxing in a park, don’t cost a dime.
Austin’s got budget hostels and hotels right in the heart of things. I love that you can fill your days with free live music or hiking without blowing your budget.
Seattle feels safe, especially for solo women. The streets are well-lit, and public transit runs reliably even late at night.
Neighborhoods have their own personalities, but many stay lively and welcoming after dark.
Portland also gets high marks for safety. Locals are friendly, and the city’s progressive vibe makes solo travel feel comfortable.
Public transit covers a lot of ground, so you rarely need to walk far alone.
Pittsburgh’s crime rates are lower than those in bigger cities. Neighborhoods like Shadyside and Squirrel Hill are easy to navigate and well-lit, which helps you feel at ease.
It’s rare to find true all-inclusive resorts in US cities, but you can still score package deals. Seattle and Portland have options where hotels bundle rooms with activities.
In Austin, some hotels offer packages with meals, tours, or even concert tickets. Bundling can save time and money, and you won’t have to sweat the details.
Atlanta instantly comes to mind. The city’s vibrant Black community and civil rights history create a welcoming vibe for solo Black women.
You’ll find cultural attractions, great food, and plenty of events that celebrate Black culture.
New Orleans is electric. The music, the food, and the city’s deep African American roots make it feel inclusive and alive.
You can join a second line parade or just soak up the atmosphere in a cozy jazz bar.
Austin’s diversity keeps growing. The city has a lively community of Black creatives and professionals, plus neighborhoods full of Black-owned restaurants and shops.
Savannah works beautifully for older solo travelers. The flat streets and compact downtown make it easy to get around, and the city’s slower pace suits anyone who prefers relaxed exploration.
Seattle stands out for accessibility. Most public spaces have elevators, and the transit system is reliable.
You’ll find cultural attractions and quiet neighborhoods that feel welcoming to mature travelers.
San Diego’s mild weather makes it a year-round favorite. The city offers accessible beaches and senior-friendly attractions, so you can take your time and enjoy the coastal breeze.
Austin practically buzzes with energy. Live music pours out of bars and venues on almost every block, so it’s tough not to stumble into a show. Food truck parks? They’re everywhere, and honestly, they’re prime spots to strike up a conversation with locals or fellow travelers.
Outdoor spaces here feel inviting, whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or just wandering. It’s easy to find a group to join, even if you just arrived in town.
Portland’s vibe feels a bit quirky, but that’s part of the charm. Coffee shops spill over with people chatting, reading, or just soaking up the atmosphere. Breweries seem to pop up on every corner, and they’re perfect for sampling local flavors while meeting new friends.
Community events happen all the time, from bike rides to farmer’s markets. If you’re solo, joining a food tour or a group ride is a fantastic way to connect with others who love exploring.
Seattle greets travelers with open arms, especially if you’re flying solo. Meetup groups and social clubs organize everything from hikes to book swaps, so there’s always something going on.
Coffee shops here offer more than just caffeine—they’re cozy spaces to relax or spark up a conversation. If you’re working remotely, co-working spaces make it easy to network or simply chat over a cup of coffee.
