With the rise of the “treat yourself” movement coinciding with the “work from anywhere” era, more and more travelers are looking for places to visit and hotels to call home that are solo traveler friendly. As someone who has been traveling alone for almost 10 years, I know what to look for that makes me feel comfortable being solo. Think: welcoming dining spaces, bars, and walkability to popular attractions.
Here’s my list of the best cities and hotels I’ve visited across the U.S. for a solo staycation!
Charleston, SC
Believe me when I tell you Charleston is every solo traveler’s dream. Easy to navigate, super friendly locals, and safe, even when walking around at night. I’ve been here twice now and could easily spend hours strolling along the waterfront, getting lost along the cobblestone streets, and food-hopping. With a variety of museums, tours, and attractions, there’s plenty to keep you busy for a few days.
Where to stay
For boutique comfort in the heart of it all, The Loutrel is in a central location right near the Charleston Market. The bright lobby area and bar feature decadent plants, a chair swing, hanging lights, local artwork, and tall ceilings. There’s also a rooftop with a bar in the warmer months.
For the luxuries of a hotel but the comforts of an apartment, Hotel Richemont is on King Street’s doorstep and new as of June 2025. Most rooms feature a kitchen space and living room, and there’s a lovely Vietnamese restaurant downstairs called the Two Bit Club.
If you’re in the mood to venture out of downtown, the Cannonborough/Elliotborough neighborhood is alive with diverse restaurants, small bars, and vintage stores. Along a tree-lined street within a collection of historic buildings, 86 Cannon is a 10-room boutique hotel that’s ideal for those traveling alone.
New York City
There’s nothing better when you’re traveling alone than a city that never sleeps. For such a busy place, I’ve always felt really safe in New York. Especially since it’s so well monitored at night and full of tourists. From strolling through Central Park to sitting at a wine bar, there’s always someone to chat with, and they’re from all around the globe. You’ll never be bored with so many events happening year-round.
Where to Stay
Since there’s already so much to do in the city, I look for somewhere that feels like a refuge from the bustle, yet still in a central location for safety as a solo traveler. I’ve stayed at Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square many times and love the social bar/restaurant space and direct views of Times Square.
Across from Bryant Park, Park Terrace Hotel is home to the popular La Pecora Bianca restaurant and the Branch, a private space with a rooftop, large windows, views of the park, and botanical drinks that make it feel like an escape.
With easy access to midtown and downtown, Hotel AKA NoMad may be small in size but the quaint bar area always brings about a lively conversation or two. It’s also close to many restaurants and bars in a less-touristy area, which is nice for an evening out.
Photo via Longfellow Hotel
Portland, Maine
Known for its thriving brewery scene, status as a top food destination, and fresh seafood, Portland’s artsy culture is ideal for solo travelers looking for a coastal getaway. On a recent trip here, I hopped around to various restaurants and bars, chatting to locals, feeling right at home. The city is also relatively small, so even if you stay out a little later in the evening, it still feels safe to wander.
Where to Stay
A short walk from downtown, the Longfellow Hotel creates the coziest atmosphere. You’ll never want to leave. The rooms are designed in a Scandi-minimalist way, while the Five of Clubs bar/lobby area features pops of blue, a gallery wall, oversized plants, and picture windows. A matcha latte and avocado toast is the ideal way to begin any morning at the on-site Twinflower cafe. Followed by an infrared sauna session at Astraea Spa to ease into the day.
Right in the Old Port District, the Portland Harbor Hotel has a historic feel with all the charm of Portland. The dining area is always buzzing, and the hotel is within walking distance of everything. Ideal if you’re solo.
Boston, MA
This East Coast city is always creeping up in some sort of article or video on best places to solo travel around the U.S. And for good reason. It has the contagious energy of a big city, but all the charm of a small town. From harbor walks and historic buildings to charming neighborhoods and sprawling parks, Boston really has something for everyone. Add in a packed calendar of major sporting events, concerts, cultural festivals, and day-trips, the city is alive with energy year-round.
Where to Stay
Boutique stays are my favorite when traveling solo, which is why the Whitney Hotel in Beacon Hill is a must. With just 65 rooms and a quiet courtyard garden, it feels like a mini-retreat in the city, and its Peregrine restaurant/bar is perfect for a morning breakfast or an evening nibble and drink.
For a lively atmosphere day and night, the Seaport District is near the harbor and has an array of restaurants along the strip. The Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is just steps from all the action and even has petite studio rooms in their Artist Tower for solo travelers, along with several food and beverage outlets.
Savannah, GA
A myriad of historic squares, hanging Spanish moss, and old mansions. There’s something ever so charming about Savannah. Along River Street you’ll find people dancing in the streets, music, and busy rooftop bars. While the historic district is lined with boutique stores, cute cafes, and cobblestone streets. And for those traveling alone, the Southern Charm is ever-present, meaning you’ll have no issue chatting with the locals.
Where to Stay
In a prime location facing both the waterfront and historic district, River Street Inn is one of my favorite places to stay in Savannah. Housed in a 200-year-old former cotton warehouse, the entire hotel is centered around a large square spiral staircase that spans five stories. The rooms are bright and decorated with industrial furniture and design elements that nod to the building’s history. But my favorite part has to be the daily Manager’s Reception with complimentary drinks and light bites for guests. Most evenings were spent on the outdoor porch area or at one of the restaurants nearby.
