12 Underrated Destinations In America Perfect For Solo Tourists, According To Travelers

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Planning a solo trip doesn't have to mean choosing from the same big-name cities as everyone else. Across the United States, there are plenty of lesser-known destinations that strike a balance among things to do, affordability, and a sense of ease for travelers exploring on their own. In many cases, these places feel even easier to navigate and more approachable — especially for solo travelers looking for a low-stress experience.

To find the best overlooked destinations across the U.S. for solo trips, we looked beyond the usual recommendations, drawing on travel blogs, forums, and firsthand accounts from solo travelers. The result is a mix of cities and small towns where you can fill your days with culture, nature, neighborhood wandering, or all of the above — all without stretching your budget or compromising safety. Each selected city includes walkable areas, affordable accommodations, and diverse offerings suitable for any kind of solo traveler. We prioritized places with positive feedback from visitors, especially regarding safety, friendliness, and overall ease of getting around independently. From artsy Midwest hubs to relaxed coastal getaways, these underrated spots prove why going a bit past the typical tourist trail makes for an extra rewarding solo escape.

Art, beer, and Midwest charm are all on the itinerary in this Michigan city. If you're seeking culture, you'll want to spend the bulk of your time in downtown, where you'll find sites like the Grand Rapids African American Museum and the Grand Rapids Art Museum, along with colorful street art scattered throughout the neighborhood (and the city as a whole). The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, rated 4.8 on Google with more than 14,000 reviews, is another gem, featuring both indoor and outdoor gardens as well as numerous sculpture galleries.

For solo travelers on a budget, there are a number of hotel options available for less than $200 a night, such as Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids Airport North. Rated 8.7 on Booking.com, your stay includes breakfast and free parking, along with access to a fitness center, plus an indoor swimming pool. Travelers should note that Grand Rapids does struggle with violent crime rates above the national average. However, taking simple safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings, will go a long way — and the city is still largely considered safe for solo travelers, especially in tourist-heavy areas such as downtown. "I felt safe throughout my trip, and the friendly locals added to the welcoming vibe of the city," said blogger Beauty and the Bump, who visited Grand Rapids solo.

Milwaukee is an affordable lake destination and another strong choice for solo travelers seeking a blend of outdoor activities and culture. From touring the extensive 32,000-piece collection at Milwaukee Art Museum to exploring local food vendors at Milwaukee Public Market, this overlooked city has plenty of solo travel-friendly entertainment. More than 40 craft breweries also call the Milwaukee area home, but one staple is Lakefront Brewing, which has been around since the '80s, and offers daily tours for $13 or $16 (beer samples included).

You'll also find stylish and affordable accommodation options like the Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown, which includes breakfast, plus a pool, hot tub, and an on-site restaurant — plus, it's rated a 9.0 on Booking.com. While the city has higher crime rates than the national average (49.15 per 1,000 people, compared with 33.37 per 1,000 people, according to Nextdoor), solo travelers can rest assured that with basic precautions, they can explore the city safely. "As a whole, Milwaukee is a safe city for solo travelers," said travel blogger Lori Loves Adventure, who has frequently visited Milwaukee solo. "Avoid dark streets and alleys at night, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid the clubs and bars at night and you will be fine."

One of the best cities in America for solo travelers is Moab, a city just minutesfrom Arches National Park, home to 2,000 stone arches and countless red rock landscapes. For a short but moderately challenging hike, leading to one of the park's most iconic viewpoints, follow the Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail, which takes around 45 minutes to complete. That's not all, either — just 30 minutes from town, you'll find Canyonlands National Park, known for its canyon vistas and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Apart from enjoying the outdoors, Moab is also home to a quaint and walkable Main Street, filled with local dining and shops.

For some rustic — and affordable — charm, stay at the 8.5-rated Red Stone Inn, which is surrounded by hiking trails and includes free parking. If you'd rather fully enjoy Moab's wilderness and go the solo camping route, you can opt for a campsite at Big Bend Recreation Site. Moab is considered a fairly safe destination, and the biggest precautions you will want to take are regarding outdoor safety — such as bringing enough water and being aware of any specific trail conditions ahead of time. "Additionally, downloading offline maps and packing appropriate gear, including sunscreen, plenty of water, appropriate clothing, and maps can help ensure you're ready for any conditions," said blogger I Am Casey Lee.

Solo travelers seeking wellness and desert landscapes should look no further than Sedona. From exploring Sedona's hiking trails, like Devil's Bridge Trail, which leads to one of the most photographed arches in Arizona, to indulging in a treatment from one of the many spas in town, there's no shortage of activities to occupy solo tourists. Art lovers shouldn't miss exploring some of the 80 or so galleries in Sedona, either, especially within Tlaquepaque Sedona, Arizona's arts and crafts village, which was first developed in the '70s as an arts community, and now houses 50 shops and galleries.

"Sedona is an amazing experience to do solo," said one Redditor in r/Sedona. "It was truly magical. As a female traveling alone, I have never felt more safe and at peace than I have all over Sedona." Just be sure to pack lots of water, avoid hiking during the heat, and use a headlamp for any early morning or late night hikes, advises travel blogger Journeys and Jaunts. For a luxurious stay without the lofty price tag, opt for the Arroyo Pinion Hotel. Rated an 8.6 on Booking.com (and rated a 9.2 by solo travelers), the hotel includes breakfast with your stay, plus features like a seasonal outdoor pool and free parking. Note that prices are higher in April, May, and October.

If you're looking for history, culture, and even some beach time, Mobile, Alabama, is one of the country's hidden gems. "It's small enough not to feel overwhelming but still has kind of a 'city' feel. Plus, it's affordable," said travel blogger Outsider Odyssey, who visited the city solo. Despite flying relatively under the radar compared to New Orleans, it's even the site of a major Mardi Gras celebration — in fact, it's even where the tradition is said to have gotten its start. While here, be sure to make it to the Carnival Museum to learn more about the historic event; admission is just $8.

Apart from exploring the city, solo travelers shouldn't skip taking the 45-minute trip to Dauphin Island, where you can experience the best of the Gulf Coast more affordably, alongside untouched beaches and vintage charm (and lots of seafood). Keep in mind that in Mobile, crime rates are higher than average, but many locals report that most areas are safe for tourists; just take basic safety precautions. For walkability, safety, and proximity to attractions, choose an accommodation in Downtown — and the 9.1-rated The Admiral, located in downtown's historic district, is a top choice thanks to its luxurious design and amenities, including an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant.

If you're seeking an under-the-radar gem with a flourishing art scene, beautiful scenery, and a walkable, historic downtown, add Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the top of your itinerary. "Chattanooga surprised me with its charm, unique experiences, and delicious food," said travel blogger Braids and Airplanes, who visited solo. "I truly enjoyed taking this solo trip!" From the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, where you can learn about local Black history, to top sites like the Tennessee Aquarium, which is rated a 4.7 on Google with 25,000 reviews, there's no shortage of sightseeing. You'll also find one-of-a-kind nature like Ruby Falls, a 145-foot-tall underground cascade, and the art-filled Rock City Gardens, complete with its very own waterfall, and numerous peaceful trails. Don't miss the Bluff View Art District, either — the scenic, cliffside neighborhood is full of quaint shops and Tennessee River views.

The 9.0-rated Moxy Chattanooga Downtown is an unbeatable choice for solo tourists, thanks to its location, welcoming atmosphere, on-site dining, and affordable breakfast. Like other cities, Chattanooga has its fair share of crime, but it's fairly localized, is overall decreasing, and is unlikely to impact tourists, with downtown areas considered safe, according to locals on Reddit. Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings, and if renting a car, lock the doors and don't keep any belongings visible. "Chattanooga, with its rich blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty, proved to be the perfect destination for a solo trip," said blogger Katie Rockey.

This unique, funky city hidden in the Ozarks got its start as a Victorian spa town, and today, it's one of the most underrated destinations for solo travelers. Filled with picturesque, historic architecture, solo travelers shouldn't miss exploring the town's vibrant arts and culture scene, with spaces like the Museum of Eureka Springs Art and the Melonlight Theater, which produces original plays. Its charming downtown is also home to an abundance of quirky local shops, like Silly Chile, which has been selling its spicy sauces for over three decades, and Silver Maple Gift Market, where you'll find locally made artisan goods, ranging from handpicked books to cocktail syrups and garden-scented candles. Outdoor adventure is abundant, too, thanks to its numerous parks and nearby lakes and rivers, for visitors seeking activities like kayaking, biking, or hiking.

Crime rates are just slightly higher than the U.S. average, according to Neighborhood Scout, but Eureka Springs is safe for solo tourists. In fact, the town prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere and has long been considered an LGBTQ+-friendly destination. Tucked right along the historic shopping district, Osage Creek Lodge is a top-rated choice for solo travelers, thanks to its affordable prices, location, and high ratings.

Despite being often overlooked in favor of cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, St. Augustine isn't just America's oldest city — it's also a must for solo tourists. Exploring 300-year-old forts, relaxing on the sugary white sand of Crescent Beach, and wandering around the history-filled Colonial Quarter are just a few of the excursions that await you in this Florida city. You also don't need to worry about breaking the bank while here, with plenty of free or low-cost activities, from Fort Mose Historic State Park, the site of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement, to walking tours.

For an affordable stay in St. Augustine, Economy Inn Historic District is especially well-rated among solo travelers, and offers proximity to sightseeing, free parking, and a sun terrace. Just note that prices increase during the fall. Crime rates are also notably lower than the national average, according to Niche, but solo travelers should still be mindful of their surroundings and belongings.

This underrated Midwest town is best known for its 19th-century architecture and Ulysses S. Grant history, but it's also the perfect destination for solo tourists seeking small-town charm. Nestled among postcard-worthy rolling hills, its vibrant downtown is not to be missed. Along Galena's 1800s-era Main Street, find 125 shops, from the eclectic A Darkness Lovely, which features all sorts of books, cards, journals, and more, dedicated to all things mysterious or supernatural, to Earth's Treasures, a Galena mainstay since 1990 for crystals, rocks, jewelry, and more. You'll also find several live music venues, as well as tasting rooms serving local wine, like the 4.6-Google-rated Galena Cellars Winery's downtown tasting room, which has been around since 1985.

For a stay steeped in history and charm, Aldrich Guest House has rooms available for a reasonable nightly rate, along with amenities like a scratch-made breakfast, complimentary beer, wine, and cheese, cookies, and a sauna. Galena is also an ideal destination for first-time solo travelers, as it's considered safer than 78% of other U.S. cities, according to Neighborhood Scout.

For a New England lakeside escape with indie shops and fun campus energy, Burlington is one of the country's top solo travel-approved spots. Tucked along Lake Champlain, this Vermont getaway has endless opportunities for spending time in nature. Whether you're looking for skiing or snowshoeing in the winter or swimming and hiking in the summer, the 100-acre Red Rocks Park is where you'll want to start. Or, hop on a bike and explore the Burlington Greenway, an 8-mile path winding around the lake's shores.

In town, you'll find an abundance of local boutiques, like Crow Bookshop, where you'll find an array of bestsellers, indie picks, and even rare and historic books, and Common Deer, which features all sorts of food items, clothing, art, and much more, made by 500 artisans, including 100 from right in Vermont. Solo travelers looking to socialize will also find a full lineup of activities, from trivia nights to live music and art exhibit opening receptions.

Although budget-friendly hotel options aren't as easy to come by in Burlington, an affordable solo trip isn't impossible. Stay in the heart of the downtown district at a quaint private room and bathroom on Airbnb — the 4.87-rated stay features lake views, a private entrance, and parking. For cautious solo travelers, Burlington has low violent crime rates and is considered safe, but basic safety precautions should be taken.

There's no need to choose between a historic downtown, outdoor adventures, or coastal charm when cities like San Luis Obispo exist. Flying under the radar compared to other coastal California destinations like San Francisco or Big Sur, San Luis Obispo offers a laid-back, less touristy experience with no shortage of fun experiences. And if you're looking for a hidden gem wine destination, you're really in luck, with more than 250 wineries and tasting rooms across the San Luis Obispo region (Wolff Vineyards, rated a 4.8 on Google, is one top choice). 

The town is also home to a number of breweries, and an impressive food scene — a favorite of California-based blogger Appetites Abroad is Mistura, a farm-to-table Peruvian restaurant. Travelers on a budget will find reasonable nightly rates at Hostel Obispo, which offers both private and shared rooms, along with proximity to downtown, a fully equipped kitchen, and free parking. Although it's always a good idea to take basic safety measures as a solo traveler, San Luis Obispo is considered very safe by locals.

This coastal New Hampshire city is walkable, scenic, and practically perfect for solo travelers. Within Portsmouth's downtown, find old-timey spots like Fezziwig's Food and Fountain, and casual, waterfront seafood joints such as Old Ferry Landing. To explore Portsmouth's storied history, visit Strawbery Banke, an open-air museum featuring historic homes, traditional crafts, and picturesque gardens. If you're in the mood for a live show, check out the schedule at The Music Hall, which first opened its doors in 1878 as a vaudeville theater and today hosts a whole slew of concerts, comedy shows, theater, and more. 

For solo travelers craving some beach time, you'll also find sandy amenity-rich beach parks like Wallis Sands State Beach, less than 15 minutes away. One well-rated and economical accommodation choice is Hampton Inn Portsmouth Central, a 3-star hotel with a 4.2 rating on Google. With a lower crime rate than the national average (24.12 per 1,000 people, according to Nextdoor), Portsmouth is also an ideal choice for extra-cautious solo travelers.

To narrow down our list of underrated destinations perfect for solo travelers, we read numerous travel blogs and Reddit threads for ideas, eventually narrowing down our list of options to include a balanced list across the country. We considered tourism infrastructure, ensuring there are many activities to occupy a solo traveler, as well as safety, using various sources such as Niche, Nextdoor, and Neighborhood Scout to evaluate both actual crime rates, as well as opinions from travelers and locals, sourced from Reddit as well as travel blogs including Lori Loves Adventure, Map Getaways, Journeys and Jaunts, Outsider Odyssey, Beauty and the Bump, I Am Casey Lee, and Appetites Abroad. To ensure that affordable accommodation options are available in each city, we searched on Booking.com, Google, and Airbnb for nightly stays over the weekend of June 13 to 14, 2026, looking for hotels rated at least an 8.0 or above on Booking, or a 3.0 on Google/Airbnb, and priced under $220 a night.