Looking for your first solo adventure? Why not make it the USA? For a start, there’s no language barrier – everyone’s fluent in English. The cultural similarities too make it an easy way to dip your toes into the world of solo travel, while still experiencing new ways of living, from food to nightlife and much more.
If you do want to visit the USA but not travel solo, you could book a tour. I recommend travel companies like Contiki or G Adventures, who welcome thousands of solo travellers onto their small group tours every year, with many being first-timers travelling alone, or joining as part of a bigger trip.
If you’re looking for your first taste of how amazing travel can be, check out my list of five places in North America that are great for travelling alone in.
1. New York City
Probably the first port of call for most US solo travellers, New York City has enough to keep you entertained for days! Wave to Lady Liberty on a boat trip, see the city from above at the Empire State Building and explore the hip neighbourhood of Brooklyn, perfect for coffee sipping and people watching. With some of the best brunching opportunities in the world and a whole load of shopping, theatre and entertainment, one thing’s for sure – you’ll never be bored in the Big Apple!
Check out my ultimate NYC city guide.
2. The Deep South
Southern hospitality does pretty much just what it says – the people in the Southern states are super friendly, and the food is really something else. In New Orleans, experience the lively jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street and the beautiful homes of the Garden District. Nashville and Memphis are ideal for music lovers, and it’s easy to find like-minded souls to enjoy the Grand Ole Opry, Graceland and Sun Studio with.
3. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is world famous home to the rich, famous and some of the most recognisable celebrities on the planet. Travelling to a bit city like Los Angeles can see daunting if travelling alone, but if you do fancy meeting others there are lots of hostels which organised social events and sightseeing trips. From snapping photos on Hollywood Boulevard, to going on a celeb open bus tour, or just checking out of the popular beach locations like Venice, LA won’t disappoint. From Los Angeles there are also lots of amazing places to visit nearby if you fancy a road trip including Las Vegas and the absolutely breathtaking Grand Canyon.
4. Hawaii
The Hawaiian islands are a pure paradise – and each one is small enough to be the perfect destination for a solo traveller. We’d recommend the ‘Big Island’ of Hawaii itself – it may be compact, but within its coastlines, you’ll discover amazingly diverse landscapes and climates. Volcanoes National Park gives you the opportunity to walk through lava tunnels and see the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea. Hawaii is filled with beautiful beaches, stunning waterfalls and some of the most laid-back people you’ll meet on your travels!
5. Miami
Miami is one of the sexiest and vibrant destinations in the United States with beautiful beaches and people. There are so many beaches and just wandering around exploring this coastal city is an amazing experience. You can also book lots of day trips and sightseeing excursions to amazing places like the Everglades National Park and get up close to gators!
6. San Francisco
More compact than California’s other big-name city, Los Angeles, San Francisco is much easier to explore on foot and full of quirky, fun neighbourhoods and things to do. A tour of the infamous Alcatraz Island and prison is a must (book this in advance), and Pier 39 is a great place to chill out and experience the perks of a seaside city. Shop in independent boutiques, take in some stunning street art and, of course, stretch your legs with a walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. View more recommendation with my San Francisco travel guide.
View more recommendations with my North America travel tips.
