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Top 6 U.S. Cities for Solo Travelers in 2021

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There is nothing like the experience of visiting a great American city solo. It is truly liberating to make your own schedule of places to visit and events to attend. This summer, many Americans are looking to spend some ‘ME’ time in the best US cities for solo travel. 

Some may not be surprised at most US cities on this list, but we have also included a few off beat choices that you may not have considered. Events and activities are slowly opening up in the United States as restrictions ease, so check local websites for operating schedules before your trip to help you plan. 

Woman at airport

Best Cities in the US for Solo Travel

Play Solo in San Francisco

San Francisco is an awesome place to see on foot or a bicycle. You can also take a ride on the iconic cable car or even on the BART to get your way around. Spend some time at Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 where you can see and hear the sea lions bark, growl and grunt. Music historians will love to see some psychedelic music history at the Haight Ashbury district, which has small bohemian cafes and shops and a mural of rock icon Jimi Hendrix. See the beautiful Golden Gate Park , which is the third most visited park in the United States. For dining options, San Francisco has something in every neighborhood for every budget and taste. 

Have the Best Time in New York

Whatever you may want to do you can do it in New York City. The city that never sleeps is also the city that has a multitude of activities for the solo traveler. You can see any type of history in New York’s museums including science at The Museum of Natural History, fine art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or recent history such as the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. For those into exercise, you can choose the Brooklyn Bridge, the Highline, Central Park or the many other parks for that important morning walk or jog. When it’s time to dine, New York City has every food option available  for every appetite.                

Time Square, New York City
Duffy square in Time Square, New York City. Vintage tones.

Experience Southern Hospitality in Atlanta

Atlanta is a great city for a solo traveler. If you prefer a unique experience, take a pottery class.  If your interest is Southern history, you can join a tour group and see the many historical sites. Other places worth a visit are High Museum of Art, Trap Music Museum or the home of civil rights leader Martin Luther King. If you are looking for peaceful walks in nature, visit Atlanta Botanical Gardens or Bob Callan Trail. Foodies would like to visit the Taste of Atlanta Festival that is currently operating on weekends. 

Atlanta skyline

See American History in Washington, DC

American history buffs will love spending time in our nation’s capital. Take a leisurely walk around the National Mall and visit the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials, and the Smithsonian Museums including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History, plus many more. You can honor our nations’ heroes at the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial. The district also offers many diverse dining options,  including the best ethnic cuisines along with fine dining and street food to satisfy your gastronomy needs. 

US Capitol

Get Weird in Portland, Oregon

Portland is one of those cities that has a reputation for being a little weird. Visit off beat places such as the Witch’s Castle and Freakybuttrue Peculiarium. While here you can relax and play at a board game café or see the Pittock Mansion Museum. Other notable places to see in Portland are Forest Park, the Mississippi Neighborhood and the beautiful botanical gardens in The Grotto. As far as food is concerned, Portland has it all, including delicious seafood, plus other local specialties including the famous doughnuts,  brisket, fried chicken combo and pork and fried dumplings. While you wander around the city, be sure to sample from the many food trucks throughout the city. 

Portland, Oregon view.

Immerse Yourself in Food and Fun in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has so much for the solo traveler to experience. If you want to taste the local cuisine, sample one of the famous cheesesteaks or indulge yourself with a Philly soft pretzel. See some the over 3,600 murals along Mural Mile. Enjoy a walk or jog along Boathouse Row on the Schuylkill River. See the landmarks of America’s beginnings like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. American literature fans will love a visit to a home where Edgar Alan Poe House once lived and wrote some of his most famous works.  Fine art enthusiasts will love the works at the Philadelphia Art Museum of Art. The Rodin Museum has the largest number of the artist’s sculptures outside of Paris. 

Love Sculpture Philadelphia

Make this spring and summer memorable with a visit to one of the best US cities for solo travel.

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