6 U.S. Destinations Perfect for Solo Travelers

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation, low crime rates, and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida that was ranked number two in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S., thanks to its low crime rates. Not only will you feel safe in Naples, but there's also plenty to do. Check out the beach at Naples Pier, go for a swim in the area's notoriously calm waters, or hit the links. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin cruise — a tour that practically guarantees good vibes.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without paying for a single overpriced cab. And, of course, being a city on the bay doesn't hurt either.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination. And once you're tired of roaming Bayfield's intimate downtown, you can head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, best known for its series of caves that transform into ice caves during the winter months.

Boise, Idaho

In addition to securing the number seven spot on U.S. News' report of the safest places to live, Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that travel right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park.

Seattle, Washington

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's), going to the top of the Space Needle, and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park, home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

By Evie Carrick