A Solo Female Traveller’s Guide to the USA in 2026
Raleigh is one destination to watch, particularly with a new flight from Dublin due to start soon. Known for its vibrant food scene, welcoming feel and safe, easy-to-navigate centre, it offers a fresh and appealing option for women considering a solo trip to the US.
Here’s what they had to say about the incredible cities and activities that the US can offer the solo female traveller, where will you choose?
Raleigh
With leafy nature escapes, historic neighbourhoods and a food scene that blends Southern comfort with global flair, Raleigh makes an inspiring city break for solo women travellers.
A great way to explore the city and meet new people is to sign up for a group tour with Raleigh Walking Tours which include ghost tours, true crime tours, murals and public art tours, Oakwood neighbourhood tours, and more.
Go on a solo culinary journey to learn about the city’s legendary bars and a hot dog joint that’s turning 110 this year. Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs has been a go-to hangout spot for locals for more than 100 years. Originally opened as a movie theatre, founder H.E. Joyner began selling snacks—before building an expansion with pool tables and a full lunch counter.The Players’ Retreat, affectionately known as the “PR” by locals, is the oldest standing bar in Raleigh. The tavern, located on the edge of the campus at North Carolina State University, has carved out its own niche to help stand the test of time.
For some peace and quiet after all the walking and culinary stops, head to Lake Johnson Park for some serenity amidst the chaos. The lake offers boat rentals (pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, sailboats etc.) and the park boasts picnic shelters, a paved greenway loop and hiking paths along the woods.
Mississippi
For those seeking a blend of coastal serenity, cultural depth and restorative indulgence, Mississippi offers a beautifully varied solo escape.
Solo travellers will love Ocean Springs in Coastal Mississippi, a walkable, artistic town where you can browse galleries, cafes, and boutiques – in just a few days, you’ll see murals and live oaks, taste fresh seafood, catch a festival, and drift through the downtown shops. Solo travellers love the local vibe and small-town appeal.
Oxford in Mississippi is a pretty college town and perfect for literature lovers. Square Books is a nationally famous independent bookstore, where you can grab a book and a coffee for some self-care time. Founded in 1979 by Richard and Lisa Howorth, the store has become a central hub for literary culture, hosting over 150 author events annually. Oxford is frequently referred to as the “literary centre of the South”.
When it’s time to unwind, head to The Alluvian Hotel in Greenwood. The Hotel features The Alluvian Spa, Viking Cookery School, Giardina’s and Yoga Studio. The Hotel also has live music and gorgeous skyline views.
For a slower way to travel you can explore along Mississippi’s coastline on the new Amtrak Mardi Gras service. Travelling twice daily between Mobile, Alabama and New Orleans, Louisiana you can stop at Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis.
New Orleans
Adventures await solo travellers in every corner of this vibrant southern city. Pack your walking shoes and immerse yourself in the sultry splendour of New Orleans.
The city’s picturesque French Quarter brings together the soaring St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, elegant Royal Street, all framed by beautifully preserved architecture filled with independent shops, restaurants and art galleries. Let the sound of live music guide you as you explore the oldest neighbourhood in the city on a French Quarter Walking Tour.
The Big Easy is widely regarded as the birthplace of the cocktail and is home to recipes celebrated around the world. To try one of its most famous creations, visit the Sazerac House on historic Canal Street. Here you can explore Louisiana’s rich drinking heritage and learn the story of the iconic Sazerac the best way possible – by tasting one for yourself.
For locally made art and jewellery, browse the co-op galleries spaces along Magazine Street and in the Uptown neighbourhoods or make time for Fleurty Girl and Dirty Coast – both with multiple locations across the city, for witty gifts and apparel that capture the character and charm of New Orleans.
https://www.neworleans.com/blog/post/solo-travel-to-new-orleans/
Louisiana
Beyond the city, Louisiana invites solo discovery, particularly in its small towns.
Ryan Street in downtown Lake Charles offers a lively mix of restaurants, galleries and coffee shops. In romantic Natchitoches, the oldest city in Louisiana, Front Street overlooks Cane River Lake and provides a picturesque setting for an atmospheric evening stroll.
For those drawn to the outdoors, kayaking or canoeing through Louisiana’s swamps offers a different perspective on the state’s lush landscapes. The guided Louisiana Swamp Tour reveals a remarkable ecosystem of birds, alligators and turtles, along with the opportunity to reconnect with nature at your own pace.
Food lovers will also find plenty to explore. Louisiana Food Tours is a rewarding way to sample the state’s culinary heritage. Cajun cuisine reigns in Lafayette, from family run eateries to refined dining rooms, while the capital city of Baton Rouge presents an eclectic mix of flavours. Nearby, the River Parishes provide a thought-provoking insight into life in this distinctive part of Louisiana.
https://www.explorelouisiana.com/
Tennessee
Tennessee is a solo traveller’s dream: from quiet mountains and scenic road trips to iconic music history and charming small towns, the state offers a rich blend of adventure, culture, and Southern hospitality.
For those seeking tranquillity, the Smoky Mountains provide the perfect escape. The peaceful side is home to many of Tennessee’s best waterfalls like Abrams Falls, Spruce Flat Falls and Laurel Falls. The Smoky Mountains offer no shortage of hiking trails, several of which depart from Tremont Visitor’s Center. Most notable is the one-way, 11-mile, pedestrian-friendly Cades Cove loop that doubles as one of the Smokies’ most iconic bike rides. Also nearby in Pigeon Forge is Dollywood, the namesake of its owner and icon Dolly Parton. Dollywood boasts the DreamMore Resort & Spa and Heartsong Lodge & Resort in Pigeon Forge. And later this year, Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel will open in Nashville, housing artefacts from across her incredible career.
For an iconic USA road trip, explore Tennessee’s small towns. From the quaint streets of Bell Buckle to the picturesque charm of Lynchburg, solo travellers can take their time discovering hidden gems and creating spontaneous adventures along the way– like the Tennessee Whiskey Trail and taste local whiskies and moonshine or the Tennessee Music Pathways for musical history and culture
In Memphis, Graceland preserves the home and legacy of Elvis Presley. Visitors can tour the mansion, view personal possessions and explore exhibits that celebrate Presley’s music, cultural influence and enduring global impact. Sun Studios in Memphis and RCA Studio B in Nashville continue the story. For those who don’t want to drive, Vonlane operates a luxury coach service between the two cities.
Image credits – dreamstime
