Ever notice how busy everyone is, or at least pretends to be?
That’s one reason why the idea of solo travel has soared to new heights. Chances are if you’re an avid traveler and haven’t yet booked a trip for one, be ready, it’s coming.
Going at it alone has taken off as one of the most popular methods of travel across the globe, and perhaps best of all, there’s no age limit!
No matter how old you are, more and more solo travelers are plowing through fear and booking trips alone.
Some are far-flung, some are popular vacation spots, and others are here in our own backyard.
Kayak just revealed the top 5 U.S. cities for solo travelers this fall, giving each destination a score on a scale from 1 to 100.
5) Salt Lake City
Utah is so much more than Zion National Park and being the butt of TikTok jokes. IYKYK
Salt Lake City has transformed its image from a sleepy city with strict rules to one of America’s trendiest destinations.
In fact, the underrated city, backdropped by stunning snowcapped mountains, broke tourism records last year, and it wouldn’t be a shocker to see the same results in 2024.
For solo travelers, however, SLC is among the best in the U.S.
Finding some much-needed me time should be easy with scenic hiking trails winding throughout the region and affordable stays and eats, earning a score of 54/100 on Kayak’s scale, highlighted most by nice hotels under $200 per night.
Tip: Make time to visit nearby Ogden, a quirky artsy town defying Utah’s uptight stereotypes.
4) Atlanta
Atlanta is another city all the rage right now. Typically, solo travelers’ top concern is sticking to their travel budget.
ATL was recently named the most affordable major city to visit in America. Kayak backs this up across multiple categories including flights, hotels, and incredible food.
Georgia’s most notable city can enjoyed by all types of travelers, but tourists flying solo will feel right at home in the mecca for ‘southern hospitality’.
People are friendly and the food scene is phenomenal ranging from southern delights such as barbecue, chicken & waffles, and you know you gotta save room for some peach cobbler!
Kayak score: 65/100
Tip: Visit the Municipal Market for a variety of local staple dishes, including chicken & waffles.
3) Chicago
They say the “Midwest is best,” and if any city backs that assumption, it’s the ‘Windy City’.
One of America’s few metropolises, like NYC, Chicago is a never-ending playground for solo travelers.
Aside from money, solo travelers always keep in mind the need to entertain themselves.
What better place than a city lined with world-renowned museums, top-rated restaurants, and easily navigable public transit?
Not to mention, surprisingly affordable hotels like one of my personal favorites – the cozy and charismatic Old Chicago Inn featuring its own speakeasy.
Kayak score: 65/100
Tip: Make sure to find time to eat at Mindy’s Bakery—one of my favorite places in the world to satisfy my sweet tooth!
2) Boston
Augustana was ahead of their time with their hit song Boston, singing “I think I’ll go to Boston, I think I’ll start a new life, I think I’ll start it over, where no one knows my name“.
Seems like they were on to something since many solo travelers aren’t seeking attention by going against the grain with this new travel trend.
Boston is a big city, but some areas often ooze small-town vibes. If one thing is for certain, though, solo travelers won’t go hungry!
You’ll enjoy all the chowdah and lobstah you can mustah and spend your days exploring historic neighborhoods and a wide range of intriguing museums like the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA).
Plus, it’s undoubtedly one of the best major cities to enjoy fall foliage-lined city parks.
Kayak score: 74/100
Tip: Try to save time to visit the fascinating town of Salem, home to the historic Salem Witch Trials, just 30 minutes away.
1) Washington DC
Politics aside in an election year, Washington DC is a year-round destination full of captivating museums, underrated restaurants, and affordable hotels.
Whether you’re a history buff or not, our nation’s capitol is fascinating to visit. Oftentimes, Washington DC seems like a movie set, but all the iconic landmarks are indeed real.
Getting around is no issue as one of the most walkable cities in America, but since DC is so deeply rooted in history, a walking tour might be most enjoyable.
Solo travelers will never have a dull moment hopping from one historic site to another, earning a perfect Kayak score of 100/100.
Tip: Dc by Foot holds a flawless 5.0 rating on Google as the top walking tour in DC.
Credit: Source link
