Travel Guide
Travel Experts Reveal Top 3 Solo Travel Destinations In The South For 2025
Feb
As more and more solo travelers pack their bags set for an adventure, you don’t have to jet off to the ends of the Earth to have a great time.
In fact, some of the best destinations to brave the world on your own are right here in our own backyard.
When you think of visiting the South, experiencing wild nights in New Orleans, epic beach vacays in Florida, and down-home charm in timeless small towns might come to mind, but there are major metropolises, stunning mountains, and everything in between at close hand as well.
The pros at Southern Living have yet again done what they do best – revealing the best of the best in the South.
This time, these experts compiled an insightful list of the ‘Best Solo Vacation Destinations In The South’ — and there are a couple of big surprises!
These are the top 3:
3) Houston: The South’s Largest Urban Jungle
World-acclaimed chef and traveler Anthony Bourdain once claimed America is home to just 2 metropolises: New York City (obviously) and Chicago.
Having grown up in Texas myself, I gotta say a city with 26-lane highways should qualify too, right?
Houston is home to nearly 2.5 million residents, according to the latest data, and is one of the fastest-growing cities as well.
Even with record-breaking tourism numbers last year, you rarely hear of Houston as a go-to destination.
Truth is, Houston is a hugely diverse city with lots to do, especially in spring before the muggy summers. You can immerse yourself in numerous sub-cultures ranging from thrilling rodeos to all the delights of Chinatown.
Solo travelers will surely love a multitude of vibrant city parks and fascinating museums, and of course, there’s no problem enjoying the Johnson Space Center either.
Where Houston really shines for solo travelers is the broad food scene reflective of the city’s diversity. Ranging anywhere from roadside BBQ, open-trunk tamale stands, my favorite restaurant Cabo Bob’s, to 6 eateries recently catching the eye of Michelin Guide, Houston is one of the best cities for a ‘table for one’.
Plus, hotels are always reasonably priced compared to other major cities. Check out this affordable Crowne Plaza near the Houston Galleria, a great base for exploring the city.
2) Little Rock: Big City With A Small Town Feel
You might be thinking, “Little Rock?! Really?”, and rightfully so. I mean, when’s the last time you heard anyone hype up Little Rock?
In general, Arkansas is more known for its lush green nature than it is urban sprawls, but Little Rock, the state’s capital, has gained the attention of numerous travel outlets, including Southern Living, for its plethora of historic attractions and buzzing food scene.
Let’s face it; not every traveler is a history buff, but there are rave reviews pouring in for the new library and museum of former Arkansas Governor and, most notably, former U.S. President Bill Clinton.
Adopting the Monica…err, moniker, of William J. Clinton Library and Museum, top-rated reviews highlight the cheap $12 admission, fascinating exhibits, and surprisingly delicious brunch specials.
Little Rock is home to just a smidge of over 200,000 people, so it’s quite the opposite of Houston. Little Rock has more of a small-town feel set along the scenic Arkansas River.
Typical chain hotels are affordable prices such as Four Points, Courtyard, and Holiday Inn, which means a bigger budget for food at local favorites like Petit and Keet.
Little Rock has also become a wellness destination, taking a page out of fellow Arkansas city, Hot Springs.
Check out Copper Well Retreat for the ultimate stay to unwind and recharge.
1) Asheville: Call It A Comeback
Isn’t it crazy how fast the news cycle passes?
With the sudden raging wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles, Asheville might be waving their hands, saying, “Hey! Remember us?!” after unprecedented floods ravaged their city in 2024.
That being said, for better or worse, one of the South’s trendiest cities is welcoming tourists yet again, and solo travelers may benefit the most for numerous reasons.
Like any city embracing a comeback, there’s likely to be some speed bumps. One of which would be staffing, and if you’re traveling solo, you’re certainly a lot less of a burden than a family of 5.
Regardless, Asheville residents are surely happy to have a boost to the economy for any travelers. Despite going through unexpected changes, the Blue Mountains still beckon with inviting trails and stunning lookouts for some of the best mountain views in the South.
And unlike Appalachia, solo travelers don’t have to worry about the folklore of feral lost souls awaiting in the woods as Asheville is largely seen as a safe destination across the board.
In town, you’ll find one of the best foodie cities not only in the South but the whole country. So, if you haven’t learned by now, arrive hungry in the South!
For stays, there are ample rustic inns, ritzy hotels, and even nature retreats outside the cityscape. Southern Living highlights Cataloochee Ranch as one of the best.
And don’t skip unexpected delights like a tour of Biltmore Estate, a breathtaking mansion now serving as a museum.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
