If you’re a woman with wanderlust, lacking a travel companion should not be why you skip a trip and stay home. With solo female travel on the rise in America and around the world, we independent ladies have more reasons than ever before to jet set on our own.
For those looking for a place to kickstart their travels, the Independent recently ranked the 10 best U.S. cities for solo female domestic travel. The list features less-trodden destinations with walkable neighborhoods, lower crime rates, a relaxed restaurant scene (no reservations, no problem), above-average arts and culture options, and affordable accommodations. It eschews obvious choices like New York or Las Vegas in favor of places like Charleston and Sedona—safe, fun, and welcoming spots for unaccompanied women.
Washington, D.C. also made the cut for its wealth of free attractions and walking tours, while Austin offers budget lodging, live music and next-level barbecue. Huntsville, Alabama, perhaps the most surprising suggestion, is a hit with women looking to shop, experience a thriving social scene and… chat up the area’s retired engineers. We agree that the last one is a bit strange, but making friends on the road is also part of traveling alone.
For the list of places to solo female travel cities you might not have considered, click here.