Guide to solo travel in the USA

Which part of the USA is best for solo travelling?

Crossing six time zones, and home to nine different climates, there’s a place for you in the USA no matter what you’re into.

The USA offers everything from desert road trips on the west coast, to cosmopolitan cities like NYC, laid back beaches in Florida and dramatic ice-capped mountains in the north.  

With so many options, it’s hard to narrow down where to start your adventure. Below are a few of the key places you could visit on your trip:

New York 

The city that never sleeps needs no introduction and is a playground for solo travellers. Fill your days (and nights) with art, culture, fashion, food, nightlife, theatre, history and architecture. Some ideas for solo travellers in New York include:

• Exploring Central Park by bike
• Wandering through the many world-class museums and art galleries
• Indulging in some retail therapy in Williamsburg
• Catching a Broadway show
• Looking out over the skyline from the top of the Empire State Building
• People watching in Times Square
   

San Francisco

Another of the most iconic USA family holiday ideas is Orlando, Florida. From some of the best theme parks in the world to incredible wildlife within reach, Orlando has something to offer family members of all ages.

You could take a stroll along the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and taste the culinary delights of Chinatown, the oldest in North America. Or take a ferry to Alcatraz Island, famous for its high-security prison. San Francisco is also famed for its manually operated streetcars and cable cars which scale the steep streets at hair-raising angles. Take a ride in one or simply watch as they go by.
 

Nashville

Nashville's friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it easy for solo travellers to connect, so you’re sure to have a memorable experience in Music City.

• Begin your adventure by exploring the historic Ryman Auditorium, known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," for an unforgettable tour and live performances
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Broadway, where honky-tonks and live music venues line the streets 
• Discover the rich musical heritage of the city at the Country Music Hall of Fame, filled with exhibits and artifacts celebrating legendary musicians

The benefits of exploring the USA as a solo traveller

With so much to choose from, solo travel in the USA can be the best way to go if you don’t want to worry about accommodating anyone else’s must-see destinations into your trip.

Solo travellers can often bag the best last-minute deals – whether that’s a single front row seat at the theatre, a bed at a hostel or an internal flight. Download popular hotel and flight apps or sign up to email newsletters to save money and make the most of your solo status.

The USA is also a popular destination for solo female travel, as its cities and countryside are generally safe for tourists and easy to navigate. You’ll find plenty of budget friendly all-female hostel rooms and adventure trips.

Must-see sightseeing and attractions in the USA 

Route 66

This iconic highway stretches 2,400 miles across two-thirds of the USA. Starting at the shore of Lake Michigan and winding all the way to Los Angeles, it passes through eight states and countless incredible sights, towns and landscapes. Whether you decide to take on the whole trip or just a section solo, it makes for an unforgettable trip. 

Central Park 

Central Park in New York City the perfect place to spend a day solo. It’s a masterpiece of landscape design, from sloping grassy parkland to towering trees, and rocky outcrops to stunning fountains and lakes. There’s even a zoo and a museum to discover. Solo travellers can explore on foot, but hiring a bike is a fun way to see the park in all its glory – and without the blisters. 

The Golden Gate Bridge 

One of the most famous bridges in the world, the bright red suspension bridge spans a mile across San Francisco Bay. Take a walk over it to Sausalito, a charming fishing port where you can escape the hustle of the city for a few hours.

Niagara Falls

The Niagara Falls waterfall is a stunning natural wonder. The cascading Niagara River drops nearly 100m at its highest point, thundering into Niagara Gorge below. Get up close aboard the Maid of the Mist boat tour or descend into the gorge on foot along boardwalks to Hurricane Deck. You can even visit at dusk to see the falls illuminated by thousands of coloured LEDs for a magical experience.

Currency for visiting the USA

The currency used in the USA is the US dollar ($). It's wise to carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility, as not all places accept cards, especially in smaller establishments or rural areas. 

Buy your US dollars before you travel with Sainsbury’s Bank. You can buy dollars at one of our travel money bureaux, online or by telephone. 

The Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money card is a safe and convenient way to spend on holiday. You can top it up with the currency of your choice and track and manage your transactions through the app. 

Find out how many dollars you’ll get to the pound with our currency converter. 

Travel insurance for your trip to the USA

Travel insurance is a must for visiting the USA. Their private healthcare system means you could end up with a substantial bill if you suffer an injury or illness while on holiday. Protect yourself against any mishaps – from loss and theft to medical emergencies – with Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Insurance.