Washington D.C. Crowned Top Solo Travel Destination in the US
A new study has revealed that Washington D.C. is the most popular destination for solo travellers in the US. The findings, compiled by OpenTable and Kayak, analysed data from solo bookings at restaurants and hotels across major cities in 2023 and 2024.
The study highlights a growing trend in solo travel, with a 38% increase in solo hotel bookings since 2019 and an 8% rise in solo diners in the past year alone. This suggests a growing appetite amongst Americans for independent travel experiences.
While popular tourist destinations like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco didn't make the top of the list, cities like Atlanta, Boston, Chicago and Salt Lake City proved popular with solo travellers.
The study found that up to 70% of Americans have travelled independently and 81% have dined solo, with "me-time" cited as a primary motivator for solo travel by almost 35% of respondents.
Washington D.C.'s appeal as a solo travel destination is unsurprising. The city's walkable layout, extensive public transport system and abundance of free attractions, such as the Smithsonian museums and national monuments, make it easy to navigate and explore.
The city's vibrant food scene also adds to its allure, although solo travellers should be aware that the study found they tend to spend 48% more on meals than when dining in groups. However, with over 20 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, a splurge on fine dining might be a tempting option.
Overall, the study suggests that Washington D.C. offers a compelling combination of cultural attractions, accessibility and culinary delights that make it an ideal destination for those seeking independent travel experiences. As solo travel continues to grow in popularity, it's likely that Washington D.C. will remain a top choice for those looking to explore the city on their own.
