Exciting Places To Go On Personal Trips
Travelling is the best way to detox from stress because it removes you from a toxic environment and activities. Relaxation, adventure, or self-discovery, the States has top-tier destinations for all.
Desperate Need For Work-Life Balance
Work and worry are the biggest cause of stress and 5th leading cause of death yearly—overachievers in the worst way. But don't panic. You can detox from stress with a solo getaway (doctors recommend it) to the most exciting travel destinations you can visit in America.
Saratoga Springs, New York
Saratoga Springs's friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for solo travelers. Admiring the town's ancient architecture and walking around its beautiful parks has a comforting feeling. You can visit the spa, enjoy the excitement of horse racing, or schedule visits from mid-July to early September to catch the festivals.
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Santa Fe, New Mexico
If you're a fan of art and history, Santa Fe's Indian Market, held every August, showcases thousands of artists and their work. Since it's America's oldest state capital, you can drop by in September for the Fiesta de Santa Fe festival, filled with cultural and traditional activities.
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Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
The stunning natural landscapes surrounding Carmel are a sight to behold. There's the white sand Carmel Beach, the rugged coastline of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the famous 17-mile Drive along the Pebble Beach Golf Links. However, if you want a simple walk, you can stroll along Ocean Avenue, the main street.
Waco, Texas
Waco attracts thousands of tourists yearly because the city has something for everyone. You can enjoy food festivals, luxury boutique shopping, and the fresh produce and crafts sold in the "Farmer's Market" every Saturday. You can tour the Dr. Pepper Museum or the Mammoth National Monument for extra fun.
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Burlington, Vermont
As one of the first American areas to run on 100% renewable energy, Burlington attracts eco-conscious people. It has a charming atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities in a picturesque New England setting. Since Burlington sits on the shores of Lake Champlain, you can go hiking, sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
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Flagstaff, Arizona
Outdoorsy folks can hike, bike, or explore the trails littered around Flagstaff, including the stunning San Francisco Peaks and other parks. The city's dark skies make it perfect for stargazing and astronomy. If science intrigues you, visit the famous Lowell Observatory, where astronomers first discovered the ex-planet Pluto.
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The Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Pocono Mountains are for those looking for solitude while admiring breathtaking views. This destination has rolling hills, lush forests, shimmering lakes, and stunning waterfalls like Bushkill Falls. It also has first-class resorts, like Skytop Lodge. NASCAR's annual Pocono 400 at the Pocono Raceway is the perfect June event to attend.
Portland, Maine
You're in for a treat when you visit a place with a high restaurant per capita. With over 200 eateries in a 3-mile radius, Portland's seafood and farm-to-table cuisine is better than most places worldwide. What more? There are over 700 islands in Casco Bay, many of which are accessible by ferry for day trips or overnight stays.
Ken Lund, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
New York City, New York
The Big Apple has one of the best nightlife scenes worldwide, with Broadway shows, comedy clubs, and rooftop bars. For foodies, there are over 23,000 restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable. Iconic places like Times Square and the Statue of Liberty are great to visit, but solo travelers might appreciate checking out art museums and bookstores.
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Savannah, Georgia
Savannah became famous as the setting for John Berendt's book, which was later adapted into a film. Despite its reputation as one of America's most haunted cities, Savannah has over 20 historic squares with beautiful spots to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Then there's the delicious Soul food at restaurants like Sisters of the New South.
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Boise, Idaho
As one of America's safest places, solo travelers can freely indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and river sports. In late summer, you can catch the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. It's a magical event with colorful hot air balloons, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
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Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
OKC is home to Route 66, one of the most extensive drivable stretches with a nostalgic road trip experience. The city attracts thousands because the bustling downtown area is easily accessible on foot. Attractions like Scissortail Park, Bricktown, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial are all within a short radius.
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Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor has something for every solo traveler. You can kayak or hike along the Huron River, visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art, or try the city's food and beer. Likewise, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and the 5,000+ trees lining its streets and parks attract nature lovers.
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Reno, Nevada
Although many Nevada visitors choose Las Vegas, Reno is also ideal for solo trips. The "Biggest Little City in the World" is more relaxed and focuses on arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. You can hike the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains or visit the National Bowling Stadium, which has 78 lanes.
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Tampa, Florida
Tampa rightfully draws attention because it's one of America's safest cities. Travelers can confidently canoe down the Hillsborough River while birdwatching and admiring alligators. They can also stroll across the scenic 2.6-mile path of the Tampa Riverwalk, visit Ybor City, and check out the expansive Lettuce Lake Park.
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Asheville, North Carolina
The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains serve as an attractive backdrop for Asheville. Other spots like the Pisgah National Forest or Blue Ridge Parkway add to the breathtaking scenery. As expected, they complement the artistic River Arts District and the architecture of the Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned home.
Boulder, Colorado
Chautauqua Park, Boulder Creek Path, and Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse are popular places that create a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers. Likewise, residents are friendly and open-minded to tourists, especially during festivals. The community is also health-conscious, so finding yoga studios, wellness centers, and healthy dining options is easy.
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Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has famous landmarks: Cloud Gate, aka "The Bean;" Home Insurance Building, the first-ever skyscraper; the clear waters of Lake Michigan; and world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago. Even if you travel solo, you're never alone because it's one of America's most culturally diverse cities.
South Bend, Indiana
The East Race Waterway in South Bend offers unique outdoor experiences, including whitewater rafting and kayaking. Other attractions, like the Four Winds Field baseball field and the Morris Performing Arts Center, are worth visiting. Thankfully, the friendly, small-town vibe and hospitality make solo travelers feel at home.
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Salt Lake City, Utah
Remember when Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics? As a visitor, you can explore various Olympic venues while experiencing the local history, art, and culture. This city has several top attractions, including Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Tracy Aviary and Botanical Gardens, and the Natural History Museum of Utah.
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Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Harpers Ferry is a popular stop on the Appalachian Trail, attracting numerous hikers. The town's rich history dates back to the Civil War and John Brown's raid in 1859. Solo travelers journey back in time with guided tours through museums, festivals, and the 3,745-acre National Historical Park.
Fort Worth, Texas
Only sometimes do you see a parade of livestock marching down the street, but the Fort Worth Stockyards treat visitors to the city's cowboy culture. An annual rodeo show is held in January and February, and it features competitions and livestock exhibitions. The city also has beautiful natural sites.
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Deadwood, South Dakota
Like Fort Worth, Deadwood has an exciting Old Wild West vibe. The annual Days of '76 PRCA Rodeo has bull riding, barrel racing, and other traditional rodeo events. As you schedule your visit to festival periods to get the best experience, look forward to dropping by at the steakhouses.
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Burbank, California
Burbank is known as the "Media Capital of the World" because of major media houses like The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Entertainment, and Nickelodeon Animation Studio. These places complement natural sites like the Verdugo Mountains. Burbank offers a mix of entertainment, culture, and relaxation.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
The Minneapolis Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) make this city a must-visit spot for art lovers. The conducive atmosphere is a great opportunity for exploration, solitude, and reflection. It should go without saying, but visit Lake Harriet, Minnehaha Falls, and the Mall of America.
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Aspen, Colorado
Welcome to a town comfortably located in a valley with four ski areas—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—providing a relaxing setting for solo travelers. Despite its reputation as a high-end ski resort, Aspen embraces arts and culture with museums, music festivals, and numerous galleries.
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Princeton, New Jersey
Princeton has several historic sites and landmarks, including Albert Einstein's house and Princeton Battlefield State Park. The city also has historic inns and bed and breakfasts with cozy accommodations. Since it is an hour's drive from NYC, solo travelers can easily visit the Big Apple.
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Bar Harbor, Maine
Although Bar Harbor gets busy as the gateway to Acadia National Park, the breathtaking landscapes, rugged coastline, and diverse ecosystems are worth seeing. You can take in the stunning views of Cadillac Mountain, where the sun rises earlier than most places in America. The fresh seafood also hits hard.
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Cape May, New Jersey
Here's an opportunity to spend your days sunbathing, whale-watching at the beach, or bird-watching in Cape May Pointe State Park. The town's beautiful Victorian architecture gives you a glimpse of life in the 1800s during walks. Likewise, the Emlen Physick Estate has a historic appeal worth exploring.
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Olympia, Washington
Olympia is the capital of Washington state. It has impressive neoclassical architecture and beautiful gardens. The Mima Mounds and Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge are interesting places to visit. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the city's Intercity Transit fleet uses biodiesel fuel and hybrid buses.
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Stowe, Vermont
In the summer, hundreds visit Stowe to hike, bike, and explore waterfalls. During winter, they ski and snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort. The hospitable locals create an inviting atmosphere, making it easy for tourists to feel comfortable. Then, there are various restaurants and local eateries to satisfy varying tastes
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St. Augustine, Florida
The surest things you'd find in America's oldest continuously occupied settlement are cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and numerous historic landmarks. The Castillo de San Marcos masonry, built in the late 17th century to protect the city from invasions, constantly attracts tourists. The local cuisine makes their visit worthwhile.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison has several museums, theaters, and art galleries so travelers can immerse themselves in the local arts and culture. There's even a museum for mustards. While there are many reasons to visit, the serene lakes and parks make it an ideal vacation spot.
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Nantucket, Massachusetts
This small Massachusetts island has beaches with aesthetic wood homes. You can sunbathe or swim at places such as Jetties Beach or Surfside Beach. You can also tour the Nantucket Whaling Museum, which reminisces about the 19th century when Nantucket was the world's whaling capital.
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Naples, Florida
Vanderbilt Beach and Clam Pass Park are among Naples' scenic attractions. Their soft white sands and calm waters are perfect for relaxing or water sports. Although many come to explore the bustling city, the 170-acre Naples Botanical Garden is available if you need a tranquil getaway.
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Washington, DC
Tourists almost always praise the free Smithsonian museums for making vacations affordable for solo travelers. Likewise, free-to-visit iconic landmarks like the White House, US Capitol Building, and the National Mall aren't short of compliments. Thankfully, government laws restricting building height allow these monuments and memorials to stand out.
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Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is good news for solo travelers who want to enjoy surreal desert landscapes, breathtaking red rock formations, and lush canyons. Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, and Chapel of the Holy Cross are popular sites with stunning backdrops. You can also visit the spa resorts and shop in Tlaquepaque Village.
Coconino National Forest, Ariz., Flickr
Ogunquit, Maine
In the Abenaki language, Ogunquit means "beautiful place by the sea." The town's connection to the ocean and Native American heritage attracts tourists worldwide. Its colorful cottages and beaches add variety to the seafood restaurants and cafes scattered across the area.
Boston, Massachusetts
This destination has a rich history as one of America's oldest cities. You can check out the iconic Boston Massacre site, including Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall. When visiting, ensure you spend an afternoon sunbathing, reading, or relaxing in Boston Common, the oldest public park in America.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is ideal for a laid-back trip because of its multiple museums, alongside the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The city is divided into distinct neighborhoods, with over 400 bridges, for travelers to explore different areas. You can also visit for the various cuisines, especially the Primanti Bros. sandwich.
Mystic, Connecticut
As a former major seaport, the Mystic Seaport, America's largest maritime museum, exhibits historic ships that take tourists down memory lane. However, this destination is known for its restaurants, shops, boardwalk, and famous drawbridge. Don't leave without trying the real-life Mystic Pizza popularized by the movie.
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Palm Springs, California
The majestic San Jacinto Mountains have breathtaking landscapes and offer enough opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Palm Springs Art Museum is also a regular attraction, with 28 galleries, two sculpture gardens, and a lecture hall. You can even visit the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
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Pensacola Beach, Florida
Pensacola Beach is a lovely setting if you need rejuvenation. You can sunbathe, swim, or stroll across the white sands of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. You can also visit the Pensacola Beach Air Show by the US Navy Blue Angels, which attracts thousands of spectators every July.
