Best Weekend Getaways in the USA for Solo Travelers: 2026 Edition
Ricky Tapping
The Solo Explorer & US Travel Expert
Looking for the perfect weekend escape without breaking the bank? The United States offers incredible diversity for solo travelers seeking memorable weekend getaways. From vibrant cities to stunning national parks, charming small towns to coastal retreats, you can find amazing adventures within a few hours of home. These 15 best weekend getaways in the USA prove that you don't need weeks of vacation time or thousands of pounds to create unforgettable memories.
Why Weekend Getaways Are Perfect for Solo Travelers
Weekend getaways offer the perfect opportunity to test your solo travel skills, explore new places, and recharge without using up all your vacation days. They're ideal for building confidence, trying new experiences, and discovering hidden gems in your own backyard. Plus, shorter trips mean lower costs and less planning stress.
Weekend Travel Benefits
- • Perfect for testing solo travel comfort levels
- • Lower costs than extended vacations
- • Easy to plan with minimal time off work
- • Great for exploring nearby regions
- • Ideal for trying new activities and cuisines
15 Best Weekend Getaways in the USA for Solo Travelers
1. Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge Mountain Magic
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville combines outdoor adventure with vibrant arts culture and craft beer scene. This mountain town is perfect for solo travelers who love hiking, local breweries, and eclectic downtown vibes.
Weekend Cost Breakdown:
- 🏨 Hotel (2 nights @ £65/night)£130 ($170)
- 🍽️ Food & Drinks£92 ($120)
- 🎫 Activities & Transport£62 ($80)
- Total (excluding flights):£284 ($370)
Must-Do Experiences:
- Hike to Craggy Pinnacle for stunning mountain views
- Explore the River Arts District galleries and studios
- Tour Highland Brewing Company and other local breweries
2. Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm & Ghost Stories
Savannah's historic district is a living museum of antebellum architecture, Spanish moss-draped squares, and legendary hospitality. Perfect for solo travelers who love history, ghost tours, and incredible Southern cuisine.
Weekend Highlights:
- Walk through 24 historic squares in the Historic District
- Take a ghost tour through America's most haunted city
- Enjoy shrimp and grits at The Grey or Mrs. Wilkes
3. Portland, Oregon – Keep It Weird
Portland's motto "Keep Portland Weird" perfectly captures this city's quirky, creative spirit. From food trucks to craft breweries, vintage shops to urban hiking trails, Portland offers endless discoveries for curious solo travelers.
4. Charleston, South Carolina – Lowcountry Elegance
Charleston combines historic charm with world-class cuisine and stunning coastal scenery. The walkable downtown, friendly locals, and incredible food scene make it perfect for solo exploration.
5. Sedona, Arizona – Red Rock Spiritual Retreat
Sedona's stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy make it a perfect weekend retreat for solo travelers seeking both adventure and inner peace. The hiking, art galleries, and wellness experiences are world-class.
6. Bar Harbor, Maine – Acadia National Park Gateway
Bar Harbor serves as the perfect base for exploring Acadia National Park. This charming coastal town offers incredible hiking, fresh lobster, and some of the most beautiful sunrises on the East Coast.
7. Austin, Texas – Live Music Capital
Austin's "Keep Austin Weird" culture, incredible live music scene, and amazing food trucks make it a perfect weekend destination. From honky-tonk bars to food trailers, there's always something happening.
8. Napa Valley, California – Wine Country Luxury
Napa Valley offers world-class wine tasting, Michelin-starred dining, and stunning vineyard landscapes. While pricier than other destinations, it's perfect for a luxurious solo retreat.
9. Nashville, Tennessee
Music City offers honky-tonk bars, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and incredible hot chicken. Perfect for music lovers and solo nightlife enthusiasts.
10. Key West, Florida
The southernmost point of the US offers stunning sunsets, Ernest Hemingway's house, and a laid-back island vibe perfect for solo relaxation.
11. Park City, Utah
Year-round outdoor activities from world-class skiing to mountain biking, plus the charming Main Street and Sundance Film Festival legacy.
12. Burlington, Vermont
Lake Champlain views, craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, and easy access to Green Mountain hiking trails make this a perfect New England getaway.
13. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Adobe architecture, Native American art galleries, incredible Southwestern cuisine, and stunning desert landscapes create a unique cultural experience.
14. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Step back in time on this car-free island with horse-drawn carriages, Victorian architecture, and famous fudge shops. Perfect for a peaceful retreat.
15. Olympic National Park, WA
Diverse ecosystems from temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines offer incredible hiking, hot springs, and some of the most pristine wilderness in America.
How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway
Weekend Planning Checklist
Before You Go
- • Book accommodation 2-4 weeks ahead
- • Check weather and pack accordingly
- • Research top attractions and restaurants
- • Download offline maps and travel apps
- • Set a realistic budget and stick to it
During Your Trip
- • Stay flexible with your itinerary
- • Try at least one local specialty dish
- • Take photos but live in the moment
- • Chat with locals for insider tips
- • Leave room for spontaneous discoveries
Money-Saving Tips for Weekend Getaways
Travel Off-Peak
Visit during shoulder seasons or weekdays when possible. You'll save 20-40% on hotels and avoid crowds.
Book Smart
Use hotel comparison sites, look for package deals, and consider vacation rentals for longer stays.
Eat Local
Skip tourist traps for local favorites. Food trucks, farmers markets, and happy hours offer great value.
Packing Essentials for Weekend Trips
Clothing Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate layers
- One nice outfit for dining out
- Sleepwear and undergarments
Tech & Essentials
- Phone charger and portable battery
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Toiletries and medications
- Travel documents and ID
Best Times to Visit Each Destination
| Destination | Best Season | Weather | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville, NC | Fall (Sep-Nov) | Cool, colorful foliage | High |
| Savannah, GA | Spring (Mar-May) | Mild, blooming flowers | Medium |
| Portland, OR | Summer (Jun-Aug) | Dry, warm days | High |
| Sedona, AZ | Fall/Spring | Perfect hiking weather | Medium |
| Key West, FL | Winter (Dec-Apr) | Dry, comfortable | High |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for a weekend getaway in the USA?
Most weekend getaways cost between £192-384 ($250-$500) per person, including accommodation, food, and activities (excluding flights). Budget destinations like Burlington, VT or Olympic National Park can be done for under £230 ($300), while luxury destinations like Napa Valley may cost £384-499 ($500-$650).
What's the best way to find cheap flights for weekend trips?
Book flights 3-6 weeks in advance, be flexible with dates, and consider flying on Fridays or Sundays instead of Saturdays. Use flight comparison sites and set price alerts. Sometimes driving can be more economical for destinations within 4-5 hours.
Are weekend getaways safe for solo female travelers?
Yes! All destinations on our list are considered safe for solo female travelers. Choose well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods, trust your instincts, and let someone know your itinerary. Many of these destinations are particularly welcoming to solo travelers.
How far in advance should I book weekend accommodations?
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for the best selection and prices. Popular destinations like Napa Valley or Asheville during peak seasons may require booking 6-8 weeks ahead. Last-minute deals are possible but risky for weekend travel.
What if I want to extend my weekend trip?
Many of these destinations work perfectly for 3-4 day trips. Consider taking a Friday or Monday off work to create a long weekend. This gives you more time to explore and often results in better flight prices by avoiding Saturday travel.
Ready to Plan Your Weekend Adventure?
These 15 destinations offer incredible experiences within reach of a weekend. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or pure relaxation, there's a perfect getaway waiting for you.
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