The 18 best solo trips in the U.S.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.