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Home > United States > 65 Things To Do Alone in LA: Solo Travel in Los Angeles

65 Things To Do Alone in LA: Solo Travel in Los Angeles

By Dymphe / May 13, 2023

Looking for things to do alone in LA ? Solo travel in Los Angeles is wonderful as there are lots of amazing activities!

Los Angeles is an incredible city in the state of California in the United States . The city is famous for many reasons, such as Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills.

Traveling to LA is definitely amazing as there are lots of things to do and to see in the city. There are also fun things to do by yourself, which is why solo travel in Los Angeles is great.

If you want to make new friends, LA is definitely the place to be. For example, you can play volleyball with a group. Or visit restaurants with others through a Meetup group. But you can also take surf lessons at Venice Beach, or get to know people while hiking together!

These activities are great if you want to meet new people in LA. But there are much more things to do alone in LA. You can also discover the city by yourself and relax.

For example, see the Hollywood sign, visit a museum, or attend a TV show!

Los Angeles is a city with endless possibilities, so you'll have a great time for sure.

Table of Contents

1. Do an Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice

One of the best things to do alone in LA is to do a bike tour of Santa Monica and Venice .

During this tour, you bike through the areas of Santa Monica and Venice.

You do this with an electric bike, which is very comfortable! It is very easy to cover large distances in the city this way.

During the tour, you bike along the beaches, the Santa Monica Pier, the Venice Canals, and more places.

Furthermore, a local guide tells you all about the places you visit. Through this, you learn about art, architecture, and history. This is great for solo travel in Los Angeles!

What's great is that you do this tour with other people as well, this allows you to meet new people when you are in LA!

2. Play Volleyball With a Group: Fun Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Want To Be Active

Playing Volleyball is a very fun activity!

But if you want to do this in LA, you need other people.

For this, you can join the Meetup group " LA Rainbow Volleyball Group ". Joining this group is definitely one of the best things to do alone in LA!

This is a group that organizes volleyball events.

These events are a great way to get active when you are in the city. And the events are great for making friends at the same time! And making friends is definitely fun for solo travel in Los Angeles.

Keep in mind that you need to have experience in playing volleyball if you want to join an event.

3. Take Some Surfing Lessons at Venice Beach

Want to learn how to surf when you are in Los Angeles? Then this is one of the best things to do alone in LA for you!

During this experience, you'll learn how to surf during a group lesson at Venice Beach .

This is a great activity to do when you are doing a solo trip to California!

What's great is that everyone can take part in these surf lessons. You can have no experience, and join these! This can be very fun if you want to learn something new. And if you like being active, this is amazing.

What's great is that you do the lessons with other people in small groups. This makes it possible to meet new people when you are in LA! So that's great for solo travel in Los Angeles.

In total, the lessons take about 2 hours.

4. Go for a Walk at the Gardens of the Huntington Library

The Huntington Botanical Gardens are amazing to visit for solo travel in Los Angeles.

You find here a lot of great plants from across the world.

What's great is that there are many sections in the gardens. Each section focuses on a specific type of plant or flower. For example, there is a garden that is all about Chinese plants.

You can go here for a relaxing walk that you can enjoy by yourself! It's one of the most relaxing things to do alone in LA.

5. Do a Segway Tour of Beverly Hills: Great Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Want To Explore Beverly Hills

Another one of the best activities for solo travel in Los Angeles is doing a Beverly Hills Segway Tour .

This is a very fun experience! During it, you go around the area of Beverly Hills.

You'll see some of the most famous landmarks and you'll learn about history. That's because a local expert shows you around!

But besides that, the fact that you do this tour on a segway is very fun! It's one of the most fun things to do alone in LA for sure.

A segway is fun to ride and riding it allows you to cover larger distances, which is great if you want to see many places!

These tours take about 2 hours in total!

6. Tour the Getty

The Getty is a lovely museum in the city of Los Angeles. If you're in the city, you should definitely go there.

At The Getty, you find a lot of different objects from all kinds of time periods and from all over the world.

Moreover, you find here drawings, paintings, photos, and more!

One of the best things to do alone in LA is to do a tour of The Getty.

During these tours, you can learn more about the place, which is very interesting!

There are several tours that are all great. Each tour focuses on a specific subject.

For example, there is a tour that focuses on architecture. Moreover, there is a tour that focuses on the highlights of the museum!

Not only are the tours very interesting, but they also allow you to meet new people in LA. That's because you do these tours with a guide and a group of other people!

7. Relax at The Japanese Garden: Great Thing To Do Alone in LA With Nature

Another great place to visit during solo travel in Los Angeles is The Japanese Garden.

This is a great public garden in the city of Los Angeles. You find the garden in the district of Lake Balboa.

What's great about this place is that the garden is a Japanese Garden.

This means that the whole garden has a Japanese design.

Moreover, there are plants from the country of Japan and there is a pond.

It is a very relaxing place to visit and to enjoy by yourself! When you go here during your solo trip to LA you'll have a great time for sure!

8. See the Homes of Celebrities during a Minivan Tour

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is the Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Tour .

During this tour, you ride in an open-top bus. You'll get to see some of the highlights of Hollywood.

For example, you'll see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, and more. Seeing all these sights is amazing.

Furthermore, you go to a lot of different areas in the city of Los Angeles.

This includes the area of Beverly Hills. It's here where you will also see the homes of some very famous celebrities. For example, during the tour, you'll see the home of Leonardo DiCaprio!

The total duration of this tour is about 2 hours.

9. Go to an Event at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is another great museum in the city.

It is the largest museum in the western part of the United States, which is amazing.

The collection of the museum includes all types of art. For example, you find here modern and contemporary art. But you also find here objects from Ancient Greece.

So if you like variety, this is a great museum to visit.

Besides that, one of the best things to do alone in LA is to go to an event at the museum.

Many events take place here. The events are a great way to learn even more about the museum's collection, but there's more! For example, there are also events that are all about music!

What's great is that there are often many people at these events. So that's perfect for solo travel in Los Angeles! This makes it possible to meet people here with similar interests and you may make some new friends here.

10. Go to an Event at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

The Institute of Contemporary Art is a lovely place to visit if you like contemporary art.

This is a museum that focuses on all kinds of contemporary artworks.

Many exhibitions take place at the museum, which is great!

Every time you visit the museum, there might be something new, which is very exciting!

When you go here alone, you can completely focus on what is on display! This makes going here one of the best solo activities in LA!

11. Go to an Event at the Descanso Gardens: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Love Nature

Going to an event at the Descanso Gardens is great when you are doing solo travel in Los Angeles.

At the gardens, there are a lot of beautiful flowers that feature a lot of colors.

There are many types of events at the gardens. For example, you can do classes and there are food-related events. Also, there are festivals. You can go to a yoga event which can be very relaxing!

What's great is that there are many events in the garden throughout the year! This makes it possible to go here whenever you are in LA!

12. Join a Group and do Yoga at the Beach and Parks of the City

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is to join a group and do yoga.

There are many places where you can do yoga when you are in Los Angeles. Two places that are great for yoga are the beach and the parks. For this, you can join the Meetup group " The Open-air | Yoga at the Beach and Parks in SoCal ".

This group organizes yoga events that you can attend when you are in LA.

Doing yoga is a great way to relax and to make you feel better!

The yoga classes take place at Long Beach and Elysian Park.

13. Do a Tour of Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is an observatory that you can find at Griffith Park.

At Griffith Observatory you can attend a planetarium show throughout the day. These shows take place every day of the year.

Besides that, you can go here for telescope viewing every night. This is amazing to experience as you can see outer space!

Also, you have a wonderful view from here! Seeing this view is amazing during solo travel in Los Angeles.

14. Take Part in a Whale-Watching Tour

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is a whale-watching tour in LA !

During these tours, you board a cruise from Newport Beach.

During the cruise, you can see all types of whales, which is incredible to see!

This includes the giant blue whale during some parts of the year.

Besides that, you can see dolphins, seals, and more animals during the tour.

What's great is that every tour is unique. You never know beforehand what you will see, which is great!

In total, the tours take about 2 hours.

15. Go to an Event at Grand Park: Nice Thing To Do Alone in LA That’s Very Relaxing

Going to an event at Grand Park is another one of the best activities for solo travel in Los Angeles.

Grand Park is a small urban park that you find in the city center. There are many fountains that look awesome!

You can go here to one of the many events. For example, there are events with food.

16. Do a Tour of The Broad

When you are doing solo travel in Los Angeles, you should definitely go to The Broad.

This is a contemporary art museum that you find in Downtown Los Angeles.

The collection of the museum includes many famous works. For example, there are works by Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol.

What's great is that you can enter the museum for free.

One of the best things to do alone in LA is a public tour of the museum.

During these tours, you can learn more about what's on display at the museum. An expert tells you all about the pieces of art, which is great!

Also, because you do this tour with a group of other people, you can meet other people at the same time! This is great and you might make some new friends!

17. Do a Guided Paddle Board Tour

Another one of the best solo activities in Los Angeles is a guided paddle board tour in Malibu .

During this tour, you go paddleboarding at beautiful beaches in Malibu. The tour takes 90 minutes.

What's great is that everyone can do this tour. You don't need to have any experience! But if it is your first time, you get a lesson on land first that takes about 15 minutes.

If you do the tour at the end of the day, you can see a beautiful sunset, which is great to experience as well! During sunset, it's one of the most wonderful things to do alone in LA for sure.

You do this tour with other people, which allows you to meet some other people at the same time!

Keep in mind that this experience takes place in Malibu, which is a short ride by car away from Los Angeles.

18. Join a Community of Photographers: Great Thing To Do Alone in LA To Meet Others

If you are traveling alone in Los Angeles and you like photography, this is a great activity for you!

The Meetup group " Los Angeles Photography Network " is great to join if you like taking photos!

The group often organizes events that relate to photography, which is great!

During these events, you can take photos together, socialize, and learn from each other!

19. Join the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk

The Downtown Art Walk in Los Angeles is great to join during solo travel in Los Angeles!

During this art walk, many places open their doors, which makes it possible to see their art!

Many local galleries, art studios, and more venues take part in the art walk.

If you like art, this is one of the best things to do alone in LA.

Keep in mind that the art walk is a self-guided experience!

20. Take Part in a Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour

When you are doing solo travel in Los Angeles, you should definitely do the Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour .

During this tour, you'll explore a place where the filming of many famous TV shows and movies took place!

For example, this was the filming location of "Friends" and "Gravity"!

This experience is a guided tour of the place during which you can learn a lot about the things you see here.

In total, the guided tour takes about 2 hours.

Besides that, you do a self-guided tour of the place as well. This part takes about 1 hour.

21. Do a Tour of the Walk of Fame: Interesting Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Want To Learn Something

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is a walking tour.

During a walking tour, you'll explore a certain part of the city together with a local guide.

This local guide can tell you all about the places you visit, which is great!

One of the best walking tours in the city is the " Walk of Fame - Official Walking Tours " tour.

This tour takes about 90 minutes and during it, you'll walk along Hollywood Boulevard. Here you can see the stars of the Walk of Fame, the Chinese Theatre, and much more.

Along the way, you'll learn a lot about the places you see!

What's great is that this is a group tour, so you can meet other people during the tour!

Another great thing about this walking tour is that it is very affordable. Because of that, everyone can enjoy it, which is awesome!

22. Join a Guided Walking Tour to the Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is one of the most famous landmarks in the city of Los Angeles.

It features the word "Hollywood" on a hill.

These letters are great to see from below.

But what's also great is to see the city from the Hollywood Sign. For this, you can do a Hollywood Sign Walking Tour . From there, you have a beautiful view of the city that you should definitely see! The view makes it one of the best things to do alone in LA.

For this, you need to hike up the hill.

Along the way, you can see many photogenic spots. This makes the tour also great if you like photography. Also, you get interesting information about the city during this guided tour.

23. Take Part in Some Cooking Classes

Want to have food when you are in LA? And do you want to improve your cooking skills and learn new recipes at the same time? Then, this is the perfect activity for you!

You should definitely join a cooking class in LA . Joining a cooking class is perfect for solo travel in Los Angeles!

During this, you cook a meal together with an expert and a group of other people!

In the end, you'll know more about cooking and you have delicious food to eat!

What's great about this activity is that you do it with other people. Eating with others is more fun than doing it alone during your solo trip in LA!

Some of the best cooking classes in LA are the ones from Cook LA.

They have a variety of cooking classes that are great to attend!

24. Attend a TV Show: Very Special Thing To Do Alone in LA

The filming of many TV Shows takes place in Los Angeles.

One of the best things to do alone in LA is to do one of these shows.

Often, you can request free tickets to be at these shows. But there is no guarantee that you can attend, till a short time before the show takes place.

When going to Los Angeles, I recommend trying to be at the filming of a TV for sure!

25. Visit the Best Restaurants in LA with a Group

Here's another one of the best activities for solo travel in Los Angeles that involves food.

If you like exploring the food scene of Los Angeles, you should definitely join " Elite Dining LA "

This is a Meetup group that organizes food events.

During these events, you visit the best and most trending and unique restaurants in the city. This includes Michelin Star restaurants!

Attending these events is very fun, as through it you can discover great food and make friends at the same time!

26. Go for a Run at Venice Beach

Venice Beach is a lovely beach in Venice. This is one of the most popular places in Los Angeles.

You find here the boardwalk, which is a promenade that is next to the beach.

This is a great place if you want to run when you are in Los Angeles!

From the boardwalk, you have a wonderful view of the beach and the sea. And besides that, it is very busy here, which is a great atmosphere to be in!

27. Hike With a Group in Los Angeles: Fun Thing To Do Alone in LA To Meet New People

Do you want to hike when you are in LA? But do you want to do this with other people?

Then join the " Los Angeles Hiking Group "!

This is a great group where you can meet up with other people to hike together! This is a great way to get active during solo travel in Los Angeles and make some friends at the same time!

The group organizes events that you can attend. Each event is at a different place and has a different route.

Before deciding on taking part in an event, you can exactly see all the details of the hiking events! That way, you can decide for yourself which event you want to attend!

What's great is that the group has a lot of members. This means that there are always many people that take part in the events!

28. Attend a Lecture at the Los Angeles Public Library

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is to go to a lecture. This is a very interesting activity if you want to learn something new.

A great place for this is the Los Angeles Public Library.

Their ALOUD Lecture Series is great to attend.

This lecture series has a lot of different speakers, which is great! This allows you to learn a lot of different things!

29. Do a Food Tour in LA

If you want to explore the food scene of the city of Los Angeles, you should join the Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour !

During this tour, you'll visit several eateries in the city where you can try out amazing food!

Besides that, you walk between the different venues and you'll see some of LA's most iconic sights! A local expert tells you all about those places, which is very interesting. This makes this tour also great if you want to learn more about the city.

Besides that, it is great to have food with other people when you are doing solo travel in Los Angeles! And you may make some new friends at the same time!

30. Explore the City’s Art District During a Bike Tour

Here's another one of the best things to do alone in LA if you want to see street art!

The " Urban Adventure; Arts District by bike " tour is a great experience!

During it, you'll explore LA's Arts District by bike.

You'll see great murals that look amazing. These murals are great for taking photos!

Besides that, a local guide tells you all about the stories behind the pieces of art! This is very interesting.

What's great is that you do this tour with other people. Because of that, you interact with other people, which is great during solo travel in Los Angeles!

31. Go to a Live Talk: Great Thing To Do Alone in LA That’s Very Interesting

Attending a talk is another one of the best solo activities in Los Angeles!

At Live Talks Los Angeles you can attend a lot of different talks. These talks feature a lot of different people. For example, there are business leaders, artists, writers, and more types of speakers! So going to this place is very interesting.

When you are doing a solo trip to Los Angeles, you should definitely attend a talk!

32. Do a Tour of the California Science Center

The California Science Center is a museum that is very interesting.

You find here a lot of exhibits that relate to science.

The space exhibits, in particular, are great! Here you can see real objects that relate to the space industry. For example, there is a Space Shuttle here.

One of the best things to do alone in LA is to do a self-guided tour of the California Space Center. This allows you to learn even more about the objects you find at the museum!

33. Learn How to Act

When you are in Los Angeles, taking some acting classes is a great activity!

This is a great solo activity if you want to become better at acting.

One of the best places for this is the Margie Haber Studio .

They have classes that take several weeks.

During these classes, you can learn all the things you need to know to act. You don't need any experience!

What's great is that you do these intensive classes together with other people. You might make some new friends during the lessons, which is great!

It's definitely one of the most fun activities for solo travel in Los Angeles if you like acting.

34. See the Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a very iconic place in the city of Los Angeles. That's why you have to visit during a solo trip to LA!

You find the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard.

Here you find almost 300 stars on the sidewalks. On each star, you can see the name of famous celebrities and fictional characters.

Seeing the stars is one of the best things to do alone in LA! When you are going here alone, it is great to see all the different names on the stars!

35. Do a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Great Thing To Do Alone in LA To Learn About The City

You can do a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour in LA . This is perfect for solo travel in Los Angeles if you want to explore the city.

During this, you board a bus with which you go to various places in the city of Los Angeles!

If there's a place you like, you can go out of the bus and explore the place!

When you want to leave, you can then board the bus again!

Also, during the bus tour, you get a lot of information about the places you drive by! This is very interesting!

36. Do a Shared VIP Tour of LA

Another one of the best things to do alone in LA is doing a shared 3 hours Los Angeles VIP tour. Doing so is wonderful if you want to learn about the city.

Some of the places you see during this tour are Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Sign.

Also, you'll get great advice about photogenic places in the city. So you can take some great photos along the way!

Doing this is a relaxing way to visit famous places during solo travel in Los Angeles!

37. Take Part in Yoga Classes in LA

Taking part in yoga classes is a very fun activity when you are doing a solo trip to LA!

During a yoga class, you can completely relax, which is awesome!

Also, you do these classes with other people. This means that you can meet other people. That's also why it belongs to the best things to do alone in Los Angeles.

One of the best places for yoga is MODO YOGA LA . They have three studios spread over the city. This means that there is likely a studio close to you!

38. Do Dancing Lessons at the Millennium Dance Complex: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like Dancing

Want to learn how to dance? Then you should take some dancing lessons. If you like dancing, this is awesome for solo travel in Los Angeles!

A great place for this is the Millennium Dance Complex!

You have a lot of different classes that are great. Depending on the type of dance you like, you can choose the class you want to attend!

39. Visit a Bookstore by Yourself

If you like reading books, going to a bookstore is one of the most fun things to do alone in LA.

You find a lot of bookstores in the city. Going to one and searching for the perfect book is a lovely activity!

One of the best bookstores in LA is Book Soup!

This is an independent bookstore that you find on Sunset Boulevard. It is a very popular bookshop.

What's great is that many events also take place here. Many celebrity authors had events here, which is amazing! So it's an interesting place to visit for solo travel in LA!

When you are going to LA for solo travel, you should check beforehand if there is an event at the bookstore! This makes the place even more fun to visit!

40. Do a Guided Electric Bike Tour of Hollywood

A Hollywood sightseeing tour by electric bike is also very fun during solo travel in Los Angeles.

During this bike tour that takes about 3 hours, you can see all the highlights of Hollywood.

For example, you'll visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and you see great street art murals during this tour.

A local guide can give you a lot of information about all the places that you, which is very interesting!

41. Join a Figure Drawing Event Through a Meetup Group

Do you like to be creative? Then, this might be one of the best things to do alone in LA for you.

You can join " The Los Angeles International Figure Drawing Group ".

This group organizes a variety of events related to figure drawing.

For example, you can do figure drawing workshops through this group.

Also, you can connect with other creative people in the city, which can be a great way to make new friends in LA.

42. Have Coffee With a Group: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in LA To Make Friends

Going to an event of the " LA Westside Loves Coffee " group can be great during solo travel in Los Angeles.

This is a group that organizes meetups at coffee shops in the city.

During these meetups, you can have great coffee and meet other people in their 20s and 30s in the city.

So, through this group, you can get to know great coffee shops in the city and you can make new friends at the same time.

43. Join a Downtown LA Running Group

The DTLA Running Group is a group that makes it possible to connect with other people that like to run in LA.

The group organizes morning runs in various parts of downtown LA. And the routes often change, which means you can explore new parts of the city through the runs.

Also, the runs are a great way to get active and socialize with others.

If you like to run, this is definitely one of the best things to do alone in LA!

44. See Vintage Cars Through a Guided Tour at The Nethercutt Collection

If you like vintage cars, this is an activity that is worth checking out during solo travel in Los Angeles.

You can go to The Nethercutt Collection.

At this place, you can see restored vintage American and European cars. Also, you can find a lot of artifacts that relate to this at this place.

What's great is that you can do a guided tour of the Nethercutt Collection. Through such a tour, you can learn a lot about the collection, which can be very interesting!

45. Join a Group and Play Games: Incredible Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Want To Have Fun

The " Ultimate Games & Gaming Group " is a Meetup group that organizes board games events in the city.

If you like playing games, and Scrabble, in particular, going to an event of this group is a great idea!

This games group is also great for socializing, making it perfect for solo travel in Los Angeles!

46. Do a Tour of the Dolby Theatre

The Dolby Theatre is a very large and modern performing arts theater where a lot of shows take place. Many famous artists perform here, and a lot of events also take place at this place.

One of the most interesting things to do alone in LA is doing a tour of the Dolby Theatre

During such a tour, you can see more parts of the theater than the regular public usually sees. Also, you get information about the theater during this tour.

47. Do a Self-Guided Tour of the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is a large amphitheater located in Hollywood Hills. Many famous artists perform at this place.

A great activity at this place for solo travel in Los Angeles is to do the Bowl Walk.

This is a self-guided tour of the Hollywood Bowl. Through this tour, you can learn a lot about the history and architecture of the Hollywood Bowl.

48. Play Soccer With a Group of People in LA: Incredible Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like Sports

Do you like to play soccer? Then, this is one of the best things to do alone in LA for you.

You can join the " Pickup Soccer LA/OC " Meetup group.

This group organizes casual pickup soccer games in the city. During these games, you can get active, have fun, and make new friends at the same time!

49. Visit the Academy Museum and Attend an Event By Yourself

The Academy Museum is a museum that is all about the film industry. And you can learn about the history and impact of the industry at this place.

Many film-related events take place at The Academy Museum that you attend by yourself.

For example, you can see old films at this place. This is a very unique experience! Or you can attend a workshop, which can be a lot of fun as well!

50. Explore Vintage Places Through a Meetup Group

Here's one of the best things to do alone in LA if you like vintage.

Through the " Ladies Who Adore Vintage " Meetup group, you can discover vintage venues. Together with other women in the city, you can go to various vintage venues.

These are, for example, historical restaurants, high tea events, and vintage events. Also, this group organizes other events that relate to this, such as historical tours.

This group is also perfect if you want to socialize with a group of other people in LA. Because of that, it's amazing if you're doing solo travel in Los Angeles and want to make some friends.

51. Do a Paramount Studio Tour: Interesting Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like Movies

You can also do a Paramount Studio Tour.

If you like movies, this is one of the best activities for you.

The Paramount Studio is a studio where the filming of famous movies took place.

Through a studio tour at this place, you can see sets, props, and a lot of other interesting places. Also, you get a lot of information about the studio during this tour, which can be very interesting!

52. Do a Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is a large concert hall that is the home of the LA Philharmonic orchestra.

If you like classical music, this place is amazing as great shows take place here.

Moreover, one of the best things to do alone in LA is a self-guided tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

You can do a self-guided audio tour at this place that takes 1 hour in total. And through it, you can explore the concert hall by yourself.

Besides that, there sometimes are guided tours. If you want to learn something during solo travel in Los Angeles, these can also be very interesting.

53. Attend an Art Exhibition By Yourself at the Hammer Museum

The Hammer Museum is an art museum with a lovely permanent collection.

At the museum, you can see many contemporary works, sculptures, graphic arts, and more.

Besides that, the museum has interesting art exhibitions. And what's interesting about these is that they focus on a specific artist's works.

54. Go to Free Events in LA Together With a Group

Many free events take place in LA that could be great to attend. And it can be a lot of fun to attend these events with other people in the city.

If you want to do that during solo travel in Los Angeles, you can join the " LA Free Events " Meetup group.

This group organizes meetups at free events or places in the city. And through these, you can connect with others to have a fun time together!

55. Join a Guided Walking Tour of Old and New Downtown Los Angeles

One of the most interesting things to do alone in LA is a guided walking tour of downtown LA .

During this 2-hour walking tour, a guide takes you to places with amazing architecture. For example, you'll see the Bradbury Building and the Pantages Theatre through this.

The local guide gives you information about the places that you see and the history of those places.

Also, what's great is that you do this walking tour together with a group of other people. So you can socialize during this tour at the same time.

56. Explore Indie Music Events in LA Through a Meetup Group: Nice Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like Music

Going to an event of the " L.A. Indie Music Meetup " can be great during solo travel in Los Angeles.

Through this Meetup group, you can connect with others to attend live indie music events in the city.

The events of this group are a great way to explore the indie music scene of LA. And this indie music group is also a great way to make new friends with people that like the genre!

57. Join a Guided Tour of the La Brea Tar Pits

Going to the La Brea Tar Pits is also great.

This is a paleontological research site where natural asphalt preserved many animal skeletons.

You can do a guided excavator tour at this place. This tour is one of the most interesting things to do alone in LA if you like learning something new.

During this, you can learn how the researchers find fossils and then excavate them.

Also, you can learn about the tar pits during this tour.

58. Do a Behind the Scenes Tour of the Aquarium of the Pacific

A fun activity in the city is doing a behind-the-scenes tour of the Aquarium of the Pacific.

During this tour, you can learn about the daily operations of the aquarium. And you can also learn about the thousands of animals in the aquarium during this tour.

If you want to learn new things during solo travel in Los Angeles, this is a great place to go!

59. Visit the Hollywood Museum by Yourself and Do a Guided Tour

The Hollywood Museum is a wonderful place to learn about Hollywood. If you're looking for interesting things to do alone in LA, going to this museum is amazing.

At this museum, you can find a collection of old artifacts from famous movies and series. This can be a lot of fun to see by yourself!

Also, you can do a tour of the Hollywood Museum.

60. Join a Public Tour at the Watts Towers Arts Center: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like Art

The Watts Towers Arts Center is a place where you can find very large sculptural towers that are amazing to see.

The artist Sabato Rodia designed and built these towers. And in total, there are 17 of them.

If you want to see the towers and learn about them, you can do a public tour. This can be one of the most interesting things to do alone in LA if you love art.

61. Visit the Petersen Automotive Museum by Yourself and Do an Audio Tour

If you like cars, this is one of the most interesting activities for solo travel in Los Angeles.

At the museum, you can learn about the history of the car and there are many exhibits related to this.

Moreover, the collection includes more than 100 vehicles that are on display. And there are a lot of cars that are in the basement of the museum.

You can do a self-guided audio tour of the museum to learn about the cars that are on display and that are in the basement.

62. Do a History Tour at the Natural History Museum

You can also go to the Natural History Museum of LA . This is the largest natural history museum in the western part of the country.

There are more than 30 million natural history objects in the museum's collection.

You can also do a self-guided LA history tour at the museum.

During this tour, you can learn about the Gold Rush, and many other topics. So if you like history, this is one of the most amazing things to do alone in LA for sure.

63. Join a Guided Tour of the Historic Battleship USS Iowa: Interesting Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Like History

The USS Iowa Museum is a great place to go if you want to learn about maritime history. At this place, you can find a lot of objects related to this.

Moreover, the most significant object at the museums is the USS Iowa. This is a US Navy battleship that dates back to the year 1943.

You can do a self-guided or guided tour of the battleship and learn a lot of new things about the ship and its history.

So if you're looking for interesting activities, this is great.

64. Join a Guided Full-Day Tour of LA

If you want to get to know the city during solo travel in Los Angeles, you can do a guided full-day tour of LA .

This is a tour that takes about 8 hours. And during the tour, you'll see the main sights of the city.

For example, you can see the Hollywood Sign through this tour and it covers the beaches of Santa Monica too.

Also, you can see Venice Beach, Griffith Park, and a lot of other sights.

At the same time, you get information and tips from the local guide of the tour. So for those who want to learn about the city, this is definitely one of the best things to do alone in LA.

65. Do a Historic Tour of the LA Coliseum: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in LA If You Love Sports

The LA Memorial Coliseum is a stadium where a lot of events, including sports events, take place.

If you're in the city, you can do a historic guided tour of the LA Coliseum and learn new things. Especially if you like sports, this can be one of the most interesting things to do alone in LA.

These walking tours take about 75 minutes and during them, you'll see many places of the stadium. For example, you can see the LA skyline from the rooftop deck.

Also, you can visit the locker room and the player's tunnel during this tour, which can be interesting and fun.

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Solo Trip To Los Angeles: Your Ultimate Guide (From A Local)

By Janelle Axton. This guide to solo travel in Los Angeles contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

If you’re considering a solo trip to Los Angeles , then this guide is for you!

With its endless attractions, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class restaurants, there’s plenty to see and do without a companion.

To help make your solo trip as smooth as possible, read through this ultimate guide packed with tips and advice and get ready to discover all that solo travel in LA has to offer.

As a local, I’m excited to share some of my favorite places and best tips with you!

⏳ Short on time? Here are my top picks for LA solo travel: 🚘 Getting Around: The best way to get around while traveling solo in Los Angeles is by car. Luckily, Discover Cars  makes it easy to quickly compare your rental options and save up to 70%. 📍 Tours & Experiences: Snag access to 30+ local tours & attractions for one low price with a Go City: Los Angeles Explorer Pass . Also, a few top recommendations for tours include: – Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills – Old & New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour – Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour Click here for a full list of tours in Los Angeles 🎉 Events: Check for fun events & unique popup experiences on Fever 🥘 Local Culture: Dine in local homes & enjoy culinary experiences with locals through EatWith 🏨 Accommodation: My favorite is The Kinney , a hip boutique hotel walkable to Venice Beach that is great for those traveling solo in LA! You can also  view other accommodation options here . 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞  Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Confidently Enjoy Solo Travel In Los Angeles [Free Course]

But first, before we dive into our guide to solo female travel in Los Angeles , I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears (like  flying alone for the first time ) and how to overcome them
• How to choose the perfect destination when you travel solo
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe when traveling solo
• How to travel alone and take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into our California travel guide focused on LA solo travel.

Is A Solo Trip To Los Angeles Worth It?

A solo trip to Los Angeles, aka The City of Angels, can be a great experience. The city has a lot to offer, from a delicious food scene and nightlife to well known attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios.

Plus, LA is a great place to people-watch — you never know what celebrity you might run into! 

The downside of traveling solo is you do have to be extra careful when it comes to safety; but as long as you take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, LA is plenty safe to explore on your own. You might even invest in some travel safety essentials , like pickpocket-proof garments and a personal safety alarm .

Overall, a solo trip to LA is definitely worth it!

Where Is Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a large city area located in southern California.

In general, when people reference LA, they are talking about the sprawling area of Greater Los Angeles that includes cities from Santa Monica and Malibu on the west coast to Burbank and the Valley in the north, Pasadena towards the east, and down to the South Bay LA and even Orange County in the south. 

The Greater Los Angeles Area is the second most populous metropolitan area in the United States , with over 18 million residents. This means there is plenty to explore when traveling to Los Angeles alone. 

Getting To Los Angeles

There are a few ways to get into Los Angeles, but the most common is flying into LAX international Airport or driving in on one of the many freeways. 

If you’re flying, keep in mind that it’s a busy airport — so leave yourself plenty of time to get around.

If you plan to take Uber or Lyft from the airport, you will need to take the shuttle bus to an offsite location. 

And if you’re driving, be aware that traffic can be heavy at all times of day, so plan accordingly.

Los Angeles Travel Map

Before we go any further with our guide on solo travel to Los Angeles, I want to give you a lay of the land. Here is a map of Los Angeles:

You can also click the above Los Angeles map for an interactive version, which has some of the main attractions mentioned below pre-plotted.

Save it to your phone before traveling alone to Los Angeles so it’s ready to go.

Best Ways To Get Around Los Angeles As A Solo Traveler 

Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolitan area, and it doesn’t have the best public transportation. While buses and trains do exist, it will take a bit of planning and flexibility of walking between stops. You can use this trip planner for help with this.

The most common and easiest way to get around LA for most people is to drive. You can rent a car using a tool like Discover Cars , a comparison tool that can help you save money on rentals.

Additionally, Uber and Lyft are easy to use and plentiful around the city. It’s recommended to download these apps before you leave home so they’re ready to go once you arrive into Los Angeles.

Is LA Safe For Solo Travel?

Yes, LA is safe for solo travel! That being said, as with any big city, you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings and plan your transportation in advance, especially at night. 

Avoid certain areas such as Skid Row (east of Downtown LA) and stay extra aware in certain parts of Downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood that are not the safest.

If in doubt, ask your hotel reception if a place you’re wanting to go is safe to explore on your own.

Overall, LA is a great place to visit by yourself. Just be cautious and use your common sense, and you’ll be just fine.

Where To Stay On A Solo Trip To Los Angeles

There are a number of great and centrally-located neighborhoods around Los Angeles that are safe for solo travelers, including:

Santa Monica. This is the most popular beach in LA, and a must-visit on any trip to Los Angeles or California road trip . It has a bit of everything, from great restaurants and resort-quality hotels to active nightlife and beach activities. It’s also a very walkable area for those who want to avoid renting a car. 

Click here for a list full list of Santa Monica hotels .

West Hollywood. While a lot of Hollywood is actually pretty grungy, West Hollywood is a much nicer area and located within easy access to many attractions. It’s especially great for those who enjoy exciting nightlife. 

Click here for a list full list of West Hollywood hotels .

Beverly Hills. Here you’ll be immersed in the epitome of LA’s high-class lifestyle. From high-end shopping to world-class spas and opulence, Beverly Hills is the best place to stay for those looking for luxury.

Click here for a list full list of Beverly Hills hotels .

Manhattan Beach. Located just south of LAX, this little beach town is great for those who want a more relaxing and less crowded place to stay, though it’s still within easy driving distance. Plus, there are many great things to do in Manhattan Beach such as shopping in the downtown area boutiques and swimming or taking in a sunset on the beach.

Click here for a list full list of Manhattan Beach hotels .

You can also click here for a full list of Los Angeles hotels , or check out the map below for hotels and self-contained rentals. Note that it’s currently set to Santa Monica, though you can easily change it to your preferred area of LA:

Fun Things To Do In LA As A Solo Traveler

There is no shortage of fun things to do as a solo traveler in Los Angeles. You will find everything from popular tourist attractions to simply enjoying the sunshine out at the beach or a rooftop bar to hidden gems near Los Angeles .

Here are a few of the best things to do in LA when traveling solo:

1. Play around at the Santa Monica Pier

This should be at the top of any list of things to do in Los Angeles when traveling alone. Here, you can play classic arcade games, see talented street performers, and ride the giant Ferris Wheel while taking in stunning Pacific Ocean views.

Whether you have 3 days in Los Angeles or more time to spare, this is sure to be a highlight.

Afterward, you’ll be in the perfect spot to relax on Santa Monica State Beach — a great option for a solo beach day trip — or explore the lively Ocean Avenue and Downtown Santa Monica .

While it’s a bit of a long walk from the pier, a 12-minute Uber ride can take you to Bergamot Station , a former train station complex that houses 30+ art galleries.

2. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

At least one day of your trip should be dedicated to Universal Studios Hollywood.

Along with being a film studio and theme park home to fun rides inspired by your favorite TV shows and films like Jurassic Park , Harry Potter and the Fast & The Furious, you can find carnival games and live entertainment.

If you’re looking to enjoy shopping and dining, head to Universal CityWalk — which is also home to Universal Cinema, a 7-story IMAX with LASER theatre.

If you’ll be enjoying the rides, make sure to get a Skip-The-Line Express Ticket or opt for a VIP Experience package .

3. Do the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Warner Bros is another studio to add to your solo travel LA itinerary, as it’s definitely worth visiting. On this tour, you’ll get to see where — and how — some of your favorite shows and movies were made. You’ll even visit Central Perk from Friends !

This is a great way to experience movie magic and really go behind the scenes while embarking on solo travel in Los Angeles.

4. Visit Catalina Island

A day trip to Catalina Island is a fun excursion for solo female travelers to LA. Known for its coastal beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure, there is a lot to explore.

Start in one of the two main resort towns: Two Harbors, which is more rustic, or Avalon, which has more of a historic vibe.

Also on the island, spend time snorkeling and relaxing at Descanso Beach Club, explore some of the beautiful beaches, and go for a hike or sailing excursion. There are a ton of interesting tours on the island , too.

To reach Catalina Island, you can catch a ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Dana Point.

5. Get inspired at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

One of the top things to do when enjoying solo travel to LA is visiting the local galleries and museums, which is an inherently solo activity.

If you enjoy art, one must-visit institution is LACMA , the largest art museum in the western United States. It holds 150,000 pieces of art from ancient times through present day.

In addition to exploring the indoor exhibits and attending their regular films and concerts, you can wander the outside of the building and take a picture in the “Urban Light” display — a forest of city street lights that is particularly captivating at night.

A few other great art institutions in LA include the Museum of Contemporary Art , the J. Paul Getty Museum , and the Institute of Contemporary Art , to name a few. There are also a number of free museums in Los Angeles .

6. Walk Hollywood Boulevard on your solo trip to Los Angeles

Here you can view the stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrity handprints and footprints at the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (aka TCL Chinese Theatre).

For the full experience, book a Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour , which visits these LA attractions as well as various filming locations, celebrity houses, and LA attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Sunset Strip, and Beverly Hills.

7. Sunbathe and people watch on Venice Beach

While alone in Los Angeles, make sure to enjoy the beach and quirky vibes by wandering along the Venice Strand — a beachfront sidewalk showcasing shops, eateries, and street performers — or watching the talented skaters at the Venice Beach Skatepark .

You can also visit Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym that is famous for being the “home of bodybuilding” and the birthplace of the country’s interest in physical fitness.

Along with working out and playing sports like volleyball, it’s a popular place to sit and watch some incredible athletes, gymnasts, and bodybuilders.

Also, one of the best tips I can offer those staying in this area is to book a room at The Kinney Venice Beach , a funky hotel featuring cool murals and a rooftop pool.

8. Go shopping in Beverly Hills

In Beverly Hills, you can go shopping in one of the world’s most high-class shopping destinations.

For instance, at The Grove LA , you will find a range of popular stores from Coach and Michael Kors to pop-ups and special events such as the World of Netflix.

Beverly Hills is also where you’ll find Rodeo Drive , an uber luxe shopping street showcasing brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel. You could easily spend the whole day here treating yourself — or just window shopping — while traveling alone in Los Angeles.

9. Have a coastal adventure in Malibu while alone in Los Angeles

Explore a gorgeous LA beach community, and maybe try out the most popular southern California sport (surfing!) at the best surf spot in Los Angeles . This is also a good place to take surf lessons.

Love adventure travel ? You can find some beautiful hiking trails in Malibu Hills, including wine-tasting hikes like this one and wine safaris. This is also where you’ll find some beautiful waterfall hikes near Los Angeles .

10. Hike and enjoy incredible views from Griffith Observatory

No solo trip to Los Angeles would be complete without visiting the Griffith Observatory , a free admission observatory and museum that also offers panoramic views of the skyline. From here, you’ll also have a prime view of the Hollywood Sign, a true highlight when you visit LA.

The observatory is located within Griffith Park , the largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the United States. It’s home to a number of scenic trails, including hikes up Mount Hollywood  and  Mount Lee , which is home to the Hollywood Sign.

11. Go hiking in Runyon Canyon Park

About a 20-minute drive from Griffith Observatory is another fantastic spot to go hiking, Runyon Canyon Park .

Many of the trails award beautiful views over Hollywood — like the Runyon Canyon Trail , a moderate 2.7-mile loop offering sweeping views of the city. This vista is certainly a treat while exploring alone in Los Angeles.

Top Tours For Traveling Alone In Los Angeles

One of the top ways to meet people and make new friends while enjoying solo travel in Los Angeles is to book a group tour. A few top-rated excursions include:

• Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More Bus Tour
• Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Bus Tour
• Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Discover Avalon Scenic Tour
• Old & New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour
• Private Photo Walk in Los Angeles with Personal Photographer & Color Stylist
• Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Click here for a full list of tours in Los Angeles !

Tips For Dining Alone On A Solo Trip To LA

Dining alone can be a bit daunting for solo travelers, especially if you’re not used to it; but, there’s no need to worry! Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great time dining solo in LA. 

Don’t be afraid to make a reservation. Many of the best restaurants in Los Angeles will be busy and require reservations, especially during the high tourist season in summer. Plus, it will ensure that you get a good table and don’t have to wait too long for your food. 

Take advantage of LA’s many great hole-in-the-wall places. Taco stands, food trucks, farmer’s markets, and pop-ups are all top options for solo diners and tend to be less awkward than sitting at a restaurant table alone. One recommendation is the Grand Central Market, which has been serving up tasty eats from a variety of food vendors for over a century.

Eat at the bar. Whether you want to eat in silence or socialize with other patrons, the best places to do this are at a bar that serves delicious food or at a restaurant bar. While here, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the people around you. LA is full of friendly people looking to expand their social circles.

Book a meal with EatWith. EatWith is a platform that allows you to dine in local homes, which is a great way to connect with locals while traveling , immerse yourself in local culture, and meet other people while enjoying solo travel in Los Angeles.

How To Get Travel Insurance For Solo Travel In Los Angeles

When visiting Los Angeles—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel In Los Angeles

Q: is solo female travel in los angeles safe.

While it’s true that you should take some extra precautions when traveling as a solo female, there’s no reason to believe that LA is any less safe than other major cities. Use your common sense and stay vigilant, and you’ll be fine. 

Avoid walking alone at night and opt for an Uber instead. Make sure to keep a close eye on your drinks if you go out, and maybe limit how many you have. Perhaps carry travel safety essentials like a personal safety alarm with you as well to feel more confident on your own.

With a little planning and some caution, you can have a great time and feel safe while out exploring solo in LA.

Q: Is LA a good solo trip?

There’s no doubt about it, Los Angeles can be a tough city to navigate for solo travelers. From the congested freeways to the sprawling neighborhoods, it’s not hard to feel overwhelmed; however, don’t let that deter you from exploring all that LA has to offer, even on your own! 

There is always a limitless amount to see and do in LA and Hollywood, and as a solo traveler, you will be able to pick and choose to your specific tastes without having to worry about what a group wants to do.

Plus, there are always people out and about, both locals and other tourists, so you will likely meet some new friends during your trip anyway. 

Q: Do you need a car in Los Angeles?

It is best to have a car on your solo trip to Los Angeles, but you don’t need one. Everything in LA is very spread out, which means if you want to see things across town, you will need to have a car or call a ride.

That being said, if you stay somewhere such as Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach, you will be able to get away with walking around town — though you’ll be very limited in what you can do. 

If renting a car, check out Discover Cars , which allows you to easily compare your various options and save.

Q: What are the best things to do alone in Los Angeles at night?

There are plenty of fun things to do alone in Los Angeles at night. For starters, the city is home to some of the best rooftop bars in the country. So, whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a cocktail and take in great views of the skyline or just want to people-watch, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs. 

If you’re in the mood for some live entertainment, LA has no shortage of concerts and shows to choose from. And if you’re a movie buff, you can often find a screening of the latest Hollywood release.

Q: Where can I drink alone in Los Angeles?

A few recommended rooftop bars to grab a drink and take in the best views while traveling alone in Los Angeles are EP & LP , Perch , and Broken Shaker . You can also find more crowded dance bars in West Hollywood and Santa Monica. It’s recommended to check out the Bungalow .

Q: When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

While LA is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is early autumn and late spring when the temperatures are more mild. The summer is a lot of fun, but it can get very hot.

Final Thoughts On Traveling To LA Alone

If you’re considering traveling to LA alone, go for it! You are guaranteed to never run out of things to do and will have an amazing time exploring this famous city.

Of course, it helps to do some research before you go so you know what to expect, so make sure to save this guide.

The best things about Los Angeles is it’s a vibrant and diverse city where you’re sure to find something to suit your taste, whether you’re interested in art, food, yoga classes, theme parks, history, the attractions of Hollywood Boulevard (like the Hollywood Walk of Fame), or just soaking up the sun. Enjoy your time traveling alone in Los Angeles!

What are your top tips for a solo trip to Los Angeles?

About the author.

Janelle is a California native who loves sharing stories about her home state and beyond. After traveling to over 25 countries, Janelle created  Make the Trip Matter  – a travel blog that offers Travel Planning Services to help you travel more, live abroad, and discover a more meaningful experience from your travels.

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• Los Angeles
• Solo Travel

47 Fun Things to do Alone in Los Angeles, for Solo Travelers!

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: April 13, 2023
• 14 minute read

Are you looking for the best things to do alone in Los Angeles? If so, keep reading for all our favorite ideas!

If you’re visiting solo, you might be looking for some fun things to do alone in Los Angeles during your visit.

From whale watching and amazing food markets, to coastal cycling and hiking – this list of things to do in Los Angeles has lots of great options!

Los Angeles is a great city, with plenty of activities, and in this list we’ve pulled together all the best things to do alone in Los Angeles during your trip!

47 things to do alone in LA to be precise! That’s a lot of ideas to fill up your trip!

So, let’s get into it!

The best things to do alone in Los Angeles…

Head to the hollywood sign.

To kick off our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, we have the Hollywood Sign! There are loads of great places to see the Hollywood Sign , but we really love hiking it!

In our opinion, you can’t visit LA without checking this place out. We’ve even written an entire guide to the best hiking places for taking in this iconic sight !

If you’re traveling here alone, you can easily take your time snapping photos and admiring the views without feeling rushed. Better yet, you won’t have any distractions! It’s a great choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles!

However, if the idea of hiking alone sounds a little daunting, you can take a group walking tour on many of the hiking trails – which we’d really recommend. Click here for a tour that we absolutely love!

Visit the Descanso Gardens

A visit to the Descanso Gardens is one of the best things to do alone in Los Angeles. It’s calm, relaxing, and features tons of beautiful flowers. 

You can spend a few hours meandering along the flora-lined pathways or sitting on one of the benches with a book.

If you fancy spotting a few edible vegetables, head to the Nature’s Table Garden! It’s a great choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles!

City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles , it’s a hop-on hop-off bus tour . This is actually a fantastic way to see the city, so we can’t recommend it enough.

If you’re short on time in Los Angeles, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour is a great way to fit in lots of the city’s sights in one go.

It’s also a great choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles because you won’t feel out of place, or overwhelmed! Just let the driver do all the hard work!

Click here to book your bus tour tickets!

Take Surf Lessons at Venice Beach

Heading to Venice Beach is a must for any LA traveler. So, it makes sense that taking surf lessons in Venice Beach is one of our all-time favorite things to do alone in Los Angeles!

Several local companies offer beginner surfing lessons on the beach, and you can often grab a single spot for a bargain.

Better yet – it’s one of the easiest things to do alone in Los Angeles as you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people and don’t need to worry about feeling awkward.

Who knows, you may even walk away with a few friends to grab drinks with!

Things to do alone in Los Angeles: See the city by scooter

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s exploring the city by scooter!

If you don’t fancy walking everywhere during your visit to LA, grabbing one of the local scooters and exploring on two wheels is also fantastic!

It’s something you can easily to solo, and it’s so much fun! It’s a great choice for things to do alone in LA.

Head to the Getty

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s visiting The Getty !

The Getty is one of the most incredible museums in LA and it boasts an immense selection of drawings, paintings, and photographs from years gone by.

It’s free to enter (which is always a plus when you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles!) and you can spend several hours marveling at the age-old artwork.

They also host several exhibits throughout the year including plays and live music, making it an ideal pick for things to do alone in Los Angeles!

So, keep an eye on their “What’s On” page for up-to-date event information! Click here to book tickets and a guided tour!

Go on a Celebrity Home Tour

We all know that Beverly Hills is the place to be if you’re planning to run into the rich and famous. So, why not put yourself ahead of the pack by booking a celebrity home tour ?

This is one of the most popular things to do alone in Los Angeles, as you won’t feel unsafe, lonely, or uneasy at any point during the tour.

Ultimate Hollywood Tours and Access Hollywood Tours are among the best local groups, but you can easily pick up discounts if you do a bit of research.

Trust us when we say that this is one of the things to do alone in Los Angeles that you’ll want on your itinerary. Click here to book tickets onto this tour!

Visit Crumbs and Whiskers

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s visiting one of the city’s best cat cafes… Crumbs and Whiskers!

Crumbs and Whiskers is a cosy, cute cafe with real cats (they’re rescues looking for their furrever home!) you can cuddle and pet. It’s adorable and a perfect choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles.

If you want to do something really unique and relaxed, this is the purrfect idea!

Read more about Los Angeles: 15 upscale restaurants in Los Angeles

Visit the Griffith Observatory

If you’re even remotely interested in the cosmos, you’ll want to add the Griffith Observatory to your list of things to do alone in Los Angeles.

This spot is basically a south-facing observatory in Los Angeles that offers incredible views over the city (including the Hollywood sign!). But that’s not all.

It also offers incredible presentations about space, allows you to look through a legit telescope, and learn all about far-flung galaxies for FREE .

It’s easy to see why it’s one of the top things to do alone in Los Angeles! Click here to book a guided tour of the observatory!

Check out Knotts Berry Farm

Adrenaline junkies looking for incredible things to do alone in Los Angeles should definitely add Knotts Berry Farm to their itinerary.

It’s an amazing theme park with over 23 waterslides, 15 rollercoasters, and a host of stores and eateries.

You can easily spend an entire day here, and you’ll be able to get through the line quickly as a singer rider.

Talk about things to do alone in Los Angeles with perks!

Things to do alone in LA: Go Whale watching

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s whale watching. Now, if you’ve never been whale watching before, prepare for something amazing!

Whale watching is, quite simply, one of the most incredible ways to spend a day. And luckily as a solo traveler, it’s a great choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles too.

Our favorite whale-watching tour departs from Newport beach, and it’s absolutely wonderful. Click here to book your tickets on this amazing tour.

Visit Cafe Jack

Next up on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s Cafe Jack. This is one of the quirkiest choices on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles!

So what makes this place so unique? Well, it’s basically a shrine to the blockbuster film ‘Titanic’ – and it has a really odd but brilliant vibe about it!

Read more about Los Angeles: 10 beautiful waterfalls near Los Angeles

Take a Trip to Anaheim for a Disney Trip

Sometimes, a trip to the House of Mouse is just what the doctor ordered. So, it’s no surprise that a trip to Disneyland Resort is on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles!

If you’re willing to head slightly outside of the Beverly Hills and Hollywood areas, a visit to Anaheim can be one of the best things to do alone in Los Angeles.

You’ll be able to cover plenty of ground as a single rider, head to souvenir stores on your own terms, explore Galaxy’s Edge, and grab tons of snacks for one!

Oh, and don’t forget to grab a pair of Mickey ears before leaving!

Visit Santa Monica

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s visiting Santa Monica!

There is so much to see and explore in Santa Monica, so it’s a perfect choice for things to do alone in Los Angeles, especially if you want to spend a whole day doing something.

Explore the beach, check out the pier, play some arcade games, eat some local ice cream, and enjoy just strolling around the local shops.

Read more about Los Angeles: The best beach hotels in LA!

Take a helicopter tour

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s taking a helicopter tour ! Seeing the city from the sky is unlike anything else!

If you want to see the city from a new perspective, we think this is the solo activity for you!

Sure, it’s not the cheapest option on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles – but it’s one of the most memorable! Click here to book your ticket!

Eat at Pink’s HotDogs

Next on our list of things to do alone in LA, it’s visiting Pink’s HotDogs! Now, this place is an LA icon, and it’s one of the most popular food places in the city!

You need to head there and sample some of their world-class hotdogs!

This is a great place to eat if you’re a solo diner, as it’s super casual and everyone is so friendly. Which is why we added it to our list of things to do alone in LA!

Go shopping!

Next on our list of things to do alone in LA , it’s shopping. You know Los Angeles, it’s shopping heaven! So don’t leave the city without a little bit of retail therapy!

Here are some of the best places for shopping in Los Angeles:

• Westfield Century City
• Rodeo Drive
• The Americana 
• Saks Fifth Avenue, Beverly Hills
• The Grove 
• Melrose Avenue 

Explore a Farmers’ Market

You certainly don’t need company to hit a Farmers’ Market, making it one of our favorite things to do alone in Los Angeles.

The classic Los Angeles Farmers’ Market has been around since 1934, so it’s one of the oldest-running things to do alone in Los Angeles!

It boasts an amazing range of food stalls, vendor pop-ups, and local cafes that are just waiting for your patronage.

As you wander around, you can grab fresh produce, a delicious lunch, and a few souvenirs to take home! Talk about a successful day out.

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Visiting a theme park is one of the best things to do alone in Los Angeles!

Why? Well, you can take your time, queuing is quicker (single rider lanes!) and it’s cheaper too! So of course, we had to include a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood as part of our things to do alone in Los Angeles list!

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the best theme parks on this side of the USA, and it’s something you won’t want to miss!

Click here to book your advance tickets!

Face Your Fears on a Haunted Tour

If you’re looking for things to do alone in Los Angeles, consider getting your pulse racing on a Haunted Tour!

There are a few tours that run in the city, but the ‘Fame Kills: Adults Only Ghost Tour’ remains one of the top picks!

It takes you through 8-12 sites around Hollywood Boulevard and talks you through each spot’s grisly history.

It’s one of the spookiest things to do alone in Los Angeles, but it’s perfect for terror seekers! Click here to book your tickets!

Join a Luxury Boat Cruise

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s joining a luxury boat tour. This is such a unique and lovely way to admire the skyline.

Our favorite boat tour from LA, actually leaves from Marina Del Ray (a gorgeous suburb of LA). It’s the perfect way to relax and see some sights!

You’ll not only be treated to some delicious food, but you’ll also see some of the local wildflie! Including sea lions and a variety of birds too!

You can book tickets by clicking here!

Try paddleboarding

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s paddleboarding! We love this as it’s such a chilled-out and relaxed activity to try solo.

Los Angeles is also a great location to try paddleboarding, whether you’re a beginner or an expert!

There are lots of great paddleboarding locations around the city and along the coastline, but we really recommend booking yourself onto a tour, if you’re traveling alone.

Click here to book the paddleboarding tour we recommend , and it includes kayaking too, and the chance to see dolphins and sea lions too!

Check out Chinatown

With its vibrant decorations, charming restaurants, and amazing vendor stalls, it’s unsurprising that Chinatown is on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles.

You simply don’t need a travel companion to make this activity fun.

You’ll be able to check out a few tours, dine at top restaurants like Foo-Chow, and appreciate the hanging lanterns that characterize the area.

For obvious reasons, this is one of the things to do alone in Los Angeles that works best with a camera and a great pair of walking shoes!

Tour Dodger Stadium

Next up on our list of things to do alone in LA, is touring the Dodger Stadium . This is such a fun activity if you’re a sports lover!

Touring any stadium is always lots of fun, but the Dodgers stadium is especially fun and interesting. With some great views too!

We love this choice for things to do alone in LA!

Go Indoor Skydiving

Another one of our favorite things to do alone in Los Angeles is indoor skydiving with iFly !

This activity essentially places you inside a vertical wind tunnel that recreates the exact feeling that you’d get skydiving.

Included in the price you’ll get skydiving gear for the experience, a briefing, and an exhilarating free-fall.

The only downside to this is that you’ll only get around 60 seconds of airtime. But it’s still one of the best things to do alone in Los Angeles for daredevils! 

Ride the Angels Flight Railway

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s riding the Angels Flight Railway . We’ll keep this one short and sweet – because the ride itself is short and sweet too!

This is a really cute and quirky part of the city, and it’s a really lovely pick for things to do alone in Los Angeles.

It’s a classic Los Angeles landmark, and a great thing to do solo in Los Angeles!

Head up the Secret Stairs

You may not have heard of the Secret Stairs, but they’re one of the lesser-known things to do alone in Los Angeles.

When we’re looking for things to do alone in Los Angeles, we’re typically looking for things that are uber-exciting or extremely relaxing. This activity manages to do both!

As you hike to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook , you’ll climb almost 300 steps to experience some of the finest views in town.

If you’re not feeling the trek, try out the Broadview Terrace Stairs or the Castellammare Stairs.

There are so many hidden stairs you can explore, and each one is bound to impress you. Need help finding them? This book details every single set of Secret Stairs in the area!

Try a Yoga Class at Wanderlust Hollywood

If you’re looking for things to do alone in Los Angeles that will leave you feeling lithe and limber, you should try a yoga class at Wanderlust.

It’s one of the most popular studios in the city, and the yoga classes have been considered the best things to do alone in Los Angeles for years.

You can either choose a meditation class or advanced yoga to stretch your aching muscles.

Then, you can grab a delicious (and healthy!) breakfast at their onsite café. Total bliss.

Book a pool day

If your hotel or AirBnB doesn’t have its own pool, then we recommend buying yourself a day-pass for one that does! There are plenty of hotels in the city that off this for around $50 – $150 a day.

Los Angeles doesn’t feel right without spending at least one day by the pool in the sunshine!

It’s a perfect pick for things to do alone in LA!

Flick Through Books

Are you on the hunt for things to do alone in Los Angeles that are free and educational? If so, you’ll love our next pick.

There are a bunch of bookshops in Los Angeles that are worth visiting, but The Last Bookstore, Book Soup, and Skylight books are particularly welcoming.

If you don’t feel like hanging out in a bookshop, why not check out the iconic LA Public Library?

Whichever location you choose, you’re bound to agree that flicking through books is one of the best things to do alone in Los Angeles.

Head Down to the Los Angeles Art Walk

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s the Los Angeles Art Walk ! 

It’s proudly located in downtown LA and is essentially a walkable cluster of local galleries which has been running since 2004.

You’ll find over 40 galleries to explore, and you’ll be pleased to know that the artwork directly contributes to the local community.

So, not only is it one of the most interesting things to do in Los Angeles – it helps you give back!

Amble Down the Walk of Fame

Okay, we couldn’t create a list of amazing things to do alone in Los Angeles without mentioning the Walk of Fame!

This is among the must-do activities if you’re visiting Hollywood. 

If you’re not sure what it is, it’s a popular landmark that features over 2700 famous names on the sidewalk of 15 separate streets.

You’ll find super-famous names embedded on these bronze plaques, and you can spend hours searching for your favorite artists and actors.

If that wasn’t enough to convince you, this is one of the completely free things to do alone in Los Angeles!

Visit the Los Angeles Zoo

The second thing on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles – it’s visiting the LA Zoo ! This place is a must-visit spot for animal lovers and it’s enormous. 

You can spend an entire day scoping out this spot, and you’ll see everything from critically endangered Californian species to giant cats that can be seen basking in the sun.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to bring your camera and chat with the zookeepers if you have any questions!

If nothing else, this is one of the cutest things to do alone in Los Angeles.

Read more about Los Angeles: The ultimate guide to sightseeing in Los Angeles!

Chill Out at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center

One of our favorite things to do alone in Los Angeles for culture lovers is the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center.

It aims to introduce tourists and locals to Japanese American culture and displays tons of unique Japanese artwork.

But the reason this is one of our top things to do alone in Los Angeles is the amazing James Irvine Japanese Garden.

It’s designed to look like a traditional garden in Kyoto, and it’s a great place to catch your breath, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

Hollywood Trail Horseback Riding Tour

Next on our list of things to do alone in Los Angeles, it’s a Hollywood Trail Horseback Riding Tour.

If you want to see the skyline of Los Angeles in a more unique and different way, then we can’t recommend a Hollywood Trail Horseback Riding Tour enough!

It’s something you’ll always remember and such a great pick for things to do alone in Los Angeles! Click here to book your tickets!

Go food shopping at Grand Central Market

If you’re looking to stock up on some delicious local produce whilst you’re in Los Angeles, then our next suggestion for things to do alone in LA is going to be perfect for you!

The Grand Central Market is an ideal place for some solo food shopping, and you’ll love wandering around this gigantic market and seeing all the delicious food on offer!

Read more about Los Angeles: Ultimate list of non-touristy things to do in LA

Take an Acting Class at the Margie Haber Studio

The final activity on our list of things to do in Los Angeles is taking an acting class at the Margie Haber Studio !

This is one of the most well-known spots in the city, and it’s way easier to get in touch with your inner artists when you’re not surrounded by friends.

Trust us on this one.

You don’t need any experience to take a class, but it’s always worth heading in with an open mind.

A few bonus ideas for things to do alone in Los Angeles!

Have you still not found what you’re looking for? If you’re still searching for things to do alone in Los Angeles, we have a few more ideas up our sleeves!

Here are a few more ideas for things to do alone in LA:

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art
• Coastal bike ride
• Visit Little Tokyo
• Explore Koreatown
• Watch a movie in Hollywood!
• Visit The Queen Mary
• Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre
• Drive along Mulholland Drive
• Shopping on Olvera Street

Read more about Los Angeles: The best beach towns near Los Angeles

Hopefully, this list of things to do in Los Angeles has been helpful and given you lots of ideas!

As you can see, there are plenty of amazing fun things to do alone in Los Angeles! But which of these things to do in LA will you try out during your trip?

Read more about California: 8 of the best nude beaches in California

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

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Los Angeles Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Los Angeles ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Located in Southern California (SoCal), Los Angeles has a population of 3.93 million .
• The Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area is the 2nd largest in the United States, stretching out 33,954 square miles (and home to 18 million people).
• Due to the high number of musicians, artists, actors, and other creative professionals, Los Angeles is often called the “ Creative Capital of the World .”
• Locals are called Angelenos
• Nicknames: L.A., City of Angels, La-La Land, El Pueblo, Tinseltown, The Big Orange

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  US Dollar  (USD).
• Spoken languages: predominantly  English.  Spanish  is also widely spoken.
• Best time to visit: all year round! Hottest months are July, August, and September. The city has a Subtropical-Mediterranean climate. If you can manage a vacation during the spring or fall, you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and shorter lines.
• Arriving via airport: there is a Metro Bus Station in Lot C of LAX serviced by the Los Angeles Metro, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Culver City Bus, and Torrance Transit. Using the Metro, it costs under $10 to get downtown. The FlyAway Bus offers shuttles to Van Nuys, Westwood, and Union Station, and there’s a free shuttle bus to the Green Line on the L.A. Metro Rail.
• The easiest option to get to most parts of the city is to take a taxi. There is a flat rate of $46.50 for all taxi rides from LAX to downtown Los Angeles. Taxis have a minimum fare of $15 for all trips originating at LAX, plus a $4.00 surcharge.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Los Angeles hostel for solo travelers: Freehand – perfect for those without a car as it’s close to everything. Rooftop bar makes it a perfect place to meet others. Book ahead – it fills up fast!
• Hotels in Los Angeles are priced for all budgets. As you go west , hotels generally go up in price. Expensive areas include West L.A., Silverlake, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills.
• Note : Los Angeles is massive, and everything is relatively far apart. Plan ahead and book your hotel/hostel/Airbnb in the area where you think you will be spending most of your time.

GETTING AROUND

• If there’s one city in the USA where having a car is crucial, it has got to be Los Angeles. If you plan on moving around the city a fair bit, strongly consider  renting a car – there are numerous car rental locations throughout the city (and at the airport). Zipcar is a very popular service.
• Metro , LA’s public transit system, operates over 2,000 peak-hour buses and 73.1 miles of Metro Rail service. Fares are $1.75 for adults, and discounted for seniors and disabled.
• Take advantage of the Metro ! Some of L.A.’s most popular areas are easily accessible via public transport, including: Koreatown (“KTown”), Santa Monica, Pasadena, Downtown (DTLA), Little Tokyo, Silverlake, Hollywood (including NoHo and East Hollywood), the Arts District, and Los Feliz.
• There are nine franchise taxi companies in the city of Los Angeles, operating over 2,300 taxis. Finding a taxi can be rather challenging due to the rules cabbies are bound by. Taxis start at $2.85 for the first 1/9th mile, and $0.30 for each additional 1/9th mile. Yellow Cab can be reached at 877 733-3305
• Instead of taxis, consider riding on Uber or Lyft . Cheaper, and more convenient.

LOS ANGELES NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  21 (IDs are usually checked), and last call is at 1:30 AM .
• Trendy/upscale scene: Pershing Square, Century City, Beverly Hills, and Little Tokyo are replete with upscale clubs.
• Hipster scene:  hipsters flock to Silver Lake for clubs and trendy taverns.
• College scene: the under 25 crowd flocks to Hollywood , particularly Hollywood Blvd., and Sunset Blvd.
• Getting into the hottest clubs in L.A. is a privilege often reserved for the rich and beautiful. To increase your chances, be patient, be polite to the bouncers, and of course, dress your best.
• Pro tip: use Uber to get around (this way you don’t have to look for parking, and the driver can join in on the drinking!)

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Griffith Observatory : Opened in 1935 to much fanfare, this iconic civic gathering place is one of L.A.’s most popular attractions. Admission to the observatory and grounds is free, while there is a nominal fee for shows in the planetarium.
• Hollywood Sign : while you’re at the Griffith Observatory, you’ll have a fabulous view of the Hollywood Sign. There’s a 2 mile trail through the hills to get to the sign if you’re feeling adventurous.
• The La Brea Tar Pits . Rancho La Brea was a Mexican Land Grant given to Antonio Jose Rocha in 1828. Fossils were discovered in the asphalt pit, and the rest is history. Today, La Brea Tar Pits is the world’s most famous ice age fossil site – right in downtown Los Angeles!
• The Getty features world-class architecture and art works, and is one of the most popular attractions in town. Admission is free, but you need to reserve ahead of time.
• The many towns along the coast offer nice beaches with opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, biking, beach volleyball, and more. Popular beaches include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, and Hermosa Beach.

INTERESTING WALKS

• No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a walk up to the Griffith Observatory through Griffith Park. The 4,000+ acre park rewards hikers with stunning views of LA. The traditional route is a 6.4-mile hike from Bush Canyon Trail, while a 3-mile hike starts at Wonder View Trail.
• Take a stroll around Venice Beach and/or Santa Monica Pier – perfect for people watching.
• Near the junction of 101 and 405 lies a hidden gem. Behind the Sepulveda Dam is a hidden greenway with a lovely Japanese garden .
• The Fashion District is a fun place to take a walk. Start at Pico Blvd., and make your way to Los Angeles Street.
• Elysian Park is located near Dodger Stadium, and has panoramic views of the city and the mountains.

LOCAL WISDOM

• L.A. is a great place to catch a show! There are more than 20 theatrical openings every week.
• Tennis is very popular in Los Angeles. Southern California is known for producing some of the best tennis players in the world, and you can find a game at any one of the free tennis courts run by the city.
• Los Angeles is prone to a high concentration of smog throughout the summer months – an atmospheric inversion prevents exhaust and other fumes from escaping the basin.
• Some of the best yoga  is in Los Angeles – the city attracts plenty of world-class instructors. There is a yoga studio on every corner, and free yoga can be found almost every day of the week if you know where to look.
• Where to find  good cheap eats :  downtown is the happening spot for all things food. You can find Asian fusion, Indian, breweries, and homemade sausages. Even though Los Angeles is known for amazing burgers and French dips, the food scene is becoming more focused on fresh vegetables. For more restaurants, check out reviews and tips on Yelp and Google Maps.
• Dangerous areas :  East Los Angeles is known for its gangs – there are even a few neighborhoods in East Los Angeles taxis won’t go to. Avoid South L.A., East L.A., Compton, and Inglewood, especially at night. Avoid Oakwood  (in Venice) after dark.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Things To Do Alone in Los Angeles as an LA Solo

Solo travel in los angeles.

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Beach GatG, Sightseeing GatG, Movie GatG, Shopping GatG, Theme Park GatG

Los Angeles, the City of Angels in the USA, and a must for movie lovers. A destination where you can shop, hike and sightsee in one day. But if you're travelling to LA alone, where do you start in this famous American city? With the help of other solo female travellers from our community , I’ve put together a quick guide for a solo trip to Los Angeles to help you plan a trip to LA and experience the best of this iconic destination.

Discover things to do alone in Los Angeles, tours and recommended places to stay in LA for solos. Either click on the relevant link in Contents or read the whole article for your solo female travel Los Angeles. 

N.b. By booking through this page for your solo trip to LA you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

Safety in Los Angeles

• Must-Sees in Los Angeles
• Solo Things To Do in Los Angeles

Activities in Los Angeles For All Solos

At night in los angeles, los angeles tours, best area to stay in los angeles, places to stay in los angeles.

• Plan a Trip To Los Angeles

As with any city, you do need to be careful with your belongings, especially in the touristy areas which can be an attraction for pickpockets. There is crime in the South Central region so you may want to avoid areas such as Compton or Crenshaw. There are plenty of other travellers here to meet especially at the well-known tourist sites (listed below). The DCBID’s Safety Teams help to keep the streets both safe and clean. 

Things To Do Alone in Los Angeles

1. hollywood walk of fame.

Walk along the Hollywood Boulevard

This has to be one of the top things to do solo in Los Angeles! Walk along Hollywood Boulevard and spot your favourite celebrity from more than 2,600 stars that line the path. Each star is dedicated to a famous person with an emblem of what they are famous for. If you see a film camera, it symbolises being in movies or a theatre mask for theatre performances.

See the star for Marilyn Monroe, Neil Armstrong (the astronaut from Apollo), Johnny Depp and so many more. The Walk of Fame is over a mile long from La Brea Avenue avenue with the most well-known star near the Chinese Theatre. And it’s free too!

2. See the Hollywood Sign

The famous Hollywood sign

You can’t come to Los Angeles and not see the Hollywood sign! But did you know that the original sign used to say ‘Hollywoodland” and is nearly 100 years old? Today this sign is a world-famous landmark that can be seen from various points in the city such as Sunset Boulevard. Or if you want to get active and see it closer up, take a stroll to Griffith Park. You can even take a helicopter flight to see this iconic sign from above.  * Check rates and availability: Hollywood Helicopter Tour

3. Warner Bros Studio Tour

Warner Bros Studio is the location of some of the well-loved series films and TV shows and a must for any movie lover. This is where you can visit Central Perk from Friends or have your photo taken with a Batmobile.

Take a three-hour tour of this real-life working Hollywood studio for an intimate behind the scenes to peek at costumes and props used in some of your favourite movies. At the end, you can immerse yourself within an interactive experience in the world of filmmaking. If you love Harry Potter you can see the original props used in this iconic fantasy world. * Check ticket prices, dates and availability: Warner Bros Studios

Other Things To Do Alone in LA

Venice Beach

Escape the crowds

At Huntington Library. But more specifically, the gardens within the grounds of the library. Lose yourself in the Chinese garden or just admire the manicured layout as you sit and relax, away from the city.

Get a great view at

The OUE Skyspace in Downtown LA . Get great views of the city from 69 floors above it at any time of the day. You can even do yoga at sunset here too!

Places to enjoy the sun

At Venice Beach ! Watch others working out at Venice Muscle Beach as you lay on the sand and enjoy the sun. Then take a stroll on Venice Beach Boardwalk and watch the street performers along the 2.5-mile walk.

Go to El Matador to watch the sunset. It’s one of the best coastlines to see the sunset at the end of the day but be prepared to walk down a steep path to get there.

If you love your food, Grand Central Market is the place to be. This food hall has been open for over a century and is a meeting place for people all over the city. Pick up a taco or two at a cheap price.

Discover arts and goods from independent merchants at the Grand Central Market Bazaar .   It is open 7 days a week at 317 S Broadway. 

Do a spot of window shopping

Active GatG

Stroll around Echo Park Lake admiring the flowers and the skyline of Downtown LA as you pedal yourself around. You can even hire a pedal boat if you prefer your view from the water instead of land.

Another of the outdoor activities Los Angeles is to cycle the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. This bike path starts from Will Rogers State Beach and stretches along the west coast, finishing 22 miles later at Torrance County Beach.

Arty & Museum GatG

If you love Monet, you’ll love the Monet Immersive Experience . This 360-degree digital art exhibition and one of a kind VR experience give you the chance to see the world of the French artistic genius, Claude Monet. You’ll learn about his life and career as you step into his artwork and his creative world.  

Shopping GatG

You have to go to Rodeo Drive! Especially if you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman, which featured the Beverly Wilshire Hotel here. You don’t need to spend hours though as most people visit the area near Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard. Just take your credit card with you if you’re planning to actually shop in Versace instead of just looking through the window.

Have a tourist moment

At Hollywood Boulevard. Or at Six Flags Mountains, a theme park with more than 200 acres of roller coasters, and comic characters. Look out for Wonder Woman or Bugs Bunny when you’re there.

Griffith Observatory

If you have access to a car, why not do the American thing and drive to a drive-in to watch a movie. There are several movie theatres that you can drive in to choose from. Head to SoCal with your bag of popcorn and wile away a few hours watching one of your favourite films.

See the stars (literally!) Stare at the evening sky through one of the telescopes at Griffith Observatory. It's one of the places to go at night in Los Angeles and if you’re here at the right time, you may be lucky enough to have a talk with one of the astronomers who can show you exactly what you’re looking at.

If you love dancing, and you’re in LA on a Saturday night, spend your evening learning salsa in Los Angeles . Not only do you get a chance to mingle with others but you also get to learn the basic moves of salsa and bachata. It’s sociable, fun and you get to exercise too!  

If it’s LAX nightlife that you’re after, you can’t go wrong at the legendary Sunset Strip. This famous area is home to The Viper Room, and the Roxy Theatre and has music, comedy and plenty of partying to keep you going for hours into the night. You may want to team up with others to experience the nightlife.

To make the most of your trip, be sure to book a LAX car service in advance so you can sit back and enjoy the ride. Using a local car service with a professional driver at the wheel allows you to take in the sights without having to worry about traffic or navigating your way around. 

Get Your Guide  – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated day tours and activities in Los Angeles. Choose from Hollywood tours seeing celebrity homes, a semi-submarine cruise on Santa Catalina Island, or a Newport Beach 2 hour whale watching tour. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo such as a Beverly Hills and Hollywood helicopter tour and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. Read my Get Your Guide review  or click the link below for all their tours. *  Check rates and availability for all GYG tours

Viator  – Viator are similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. They also offer Los Angeles day trips such as a Catalina Island day trip with Discover Avalon scenic tour. Although some of their tours in Los Angeles have a minimum of 2 people, there are several tours to join as a solo. Read my   Viator review   or click the link for all their tours. *  Check rates and availability for all Viator tours

Intrepid Los Angeles – If you’re searching for some company to explore the USA with, Intrepid Travel is a responsible travel company that offers active tours within Los Angeles and its surrounding area. Choose from a 5 day LA to Vegas adventure, a 10 day trip from Vegas to LA exploring the Grand National Parks, 11 days from LA to San Francisco or explore Wild Western USA over 11 days.

There are several to choose from. On each tour, you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Intrepid operate a flexible booking policy so you can change your travel plans up to 21 days before departure. Read the  Intrepid Review here   or click on the link below for their tours.  *  Click rates and availability for Intrepid tours

Los Angeles is a large and diverse city, and there are many neighbourhoods that can be great for solo female travellers. I stayed near the Walk of Fame which was within walking distance of the main attractions (I could see the Hollywood sign from my hotel!) As with any city, it's a good idea to take basic safety precautions and avoid walking anywhere at night. Here are my recommendations. 

West Hollywood: This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining, as well as its LGBTQ+ friendly community. It's generally safe and easy to navigate, with plenty of hotels and Airbnb options.

Santa Monica: Located on the coast, Santa Monica is a popular beach town with a laid-back vibe. It's also home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, which offer plenty of entertainment options.

Beverly Hills: This upscale neighbourhood is known for its luxury shopping and celebrity sightings. While it may be more expensive than other areas, it's generally safe and has plenty of high-end hotels and rental properties.

Los Angeles has all types of accommodation no matter what your budget. From hostels to motels and international hotels with a view of the Hollywood Sign. 

Plus there’s Airbnb which offers rental accommodation in Los Angeles on a short-term basis and rooms in LA with a local. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. 

For those who prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring an RV and driving yourself around the USA stopping in Los Angeles on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation, your own transport and possibly a kitchenette too.

RVshare allows you to compare RV rates from different brands and find local owners near you. In most cases, they deliver to a specific location or park, so the home-away-from-home will be ready and waiting for you on arrival. Plus, you can bring your pet! Prices start from $75 a night. * Book a campervan with RVshare

All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement.  * Check rates and availability for all accommodation in Los Angeles

The Steady – $

For the budget GatG, The Steady is a stylish hostel located in the Hollywood district. Some of the beds are more like a pod and have their own privacy with a private curtain. There is a common room to meet others with a clean and natural atmosphere and design. You can find a hairdryer in the bathroom and lots of natural light. Stay as a solo and leave with new friends. Choose from a single bed in a mixed or female-only dormitory room. * C heck rates and availability for The Steady

Hotel Indigo – $$

Hotel Indigo is a chic 4 star hotel in LA. Nothing is too much to ask here. The rooms are clean and spacious with a gorgeous design and some with a city view. There’s a sun terrace, an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar, and even a nightclub. All rooms have soundproofing so you can enjoy a quiet night’s sleep and come with a coffee machine. Breakfast is option but they do cater for vegans. Choose from a superior double, an executive twin or king, or a king studio suite. * Check rates and availability for Hotel Indigo

Loews Hollywood Hotel – $$$

This 4 star hotel has everything that you need for your Los Angeles stay. Close to Hollywood Boulevard and the TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre, the Loews Hollywood Hotel is in the perfect location for exploring. You don’t even need to leave the hotel for dinner as there are several restaurants onsite and you can indulge in California cuisine or even a cocktail.

There’s a sun terrace and rooftop pool for relaxing in after a day of sightseeing. The rooms come complete with a coffee maker, a minibar and an iPod dock. Choose from a city view king or double, a capitol king or a king room with a view of the Hollywood sign. You’re in Hollywood baby! * C heck prices and availability for Loews Hollywood Hotel

Plan a Trip to Los Angeles

If you are planning a trip to Los Angeles, below are useful websites such as local costs, visas and vaccination requirements and airlines that fly there. 

Budget – $150 USD + a day 

Population – 3.967 million

Language spoken – English

Local Currency –  US Dollar  

Do I need a visa?  Yes, if you are a British Citizen and other nationalities

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines to Los Angeles

The Best Time to Go – April and June  

Which Plug Do I Need?  

Events and Festivals in Los Angeles  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette  

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• Travel Destinations
• United States

Solo Trip To Los Angeles: Your Ultimate Guide To Solo Travel In LA

Published: September 11, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Jonis Mcclain

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• Solo Adventure
• Solo Travel Destinations
• Solo Travel Experiences
• Solo Travel Safety
• Solo Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to the vibrant and diverse city of Los Angeles, California! If you’re seeking an unforgettable adventure, embarking on a solo trip to LA is the perfect choice. This sprawling metropolis is known for its sandy beaches, iconic landmarks, world-class entertainment, and a melting pot of cultures.

Los Angeles offers something for every traveler, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a shopaholic, or a food enthusiast. From exploring the star-studded streets of Hollywood to admiring the stunning views from Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles has countless experiences to offer.

Choosing a solo trip to Los Angeles allows you to set your own schedule, follow your own interests, and immerse yourself in the unique vibe of the city. It’s an opportunity for self-discovery, personal growth, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

However, planning a solo trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the destination. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you navigate your solo adventure in Los Angeles like a pro. So, grab your sunglasses and get ready to explore the City of Angels on your terms!

Why Choose a Solo Trip to Los Angeles

Embarking on a solo trip to Los Angeles offers a plethora of benefits and experiences that are unique to traveling alone. Here are a few reasons why choosing a solo trip to Los Angeles is a fantastic idea:

• Freedom and Independence: Traveling solo allows you to have complete control over your itinerary. You can explore at your own pace, indulge in your interests, and change plans on a whim without having to consult with anyone else.
• Self-Discovery: Traveling alone gives you the opportunity to reconnect with yourself and discover your own strengths and capabilities. It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself in new and exciting ways.
• Flexibility: With no one else’s preferences to consider, you have the flexibility to personalize your trip according to your interests. Whether you want to spend hours exploring art museums, relaxing on the beach, or taking part in outdoor adventures, the choice is yours.
• Cultural Immersion: Traveling solo allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culture of Los Angeles. You can engage with locals, try authentic cuisine, and experience the city’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene without any distractions.
• Building Confidence: Traveling alone can boost your confidence and self-reliance. Navigating a new city, interacting with locals, and overcoming challenges on your own will help you grow as an individual and develop new skills.

Furthermore, Los Angeles is a city that welcomes solo travelers with open arms. Its diverse and inclusive atmosphere ensures that you’ll feel comfortable and safe during your solo adventures. From friendly locals to well-connected transportation systems, you’ll find that Los Angeles is a solo traveler’s dream.

So, whether you want to rediscover yourself, unleash your inner explorer, or simply enjoy the freedom of traveling alone, a solo trip to Los Angeles is an experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a sense of accomplishment.

Planning Your Solo Trip

Planning is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable solo trip to Los Angeles. Here are some essential steps to consider when planning your adventure:

• Research and Itinerary: Start by researching the city and creating a rough itinerary of the places you want to visit. Consider your interests, whether it’s visiting iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame or exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Downtown LA.
• Accommodation: Choose accommodation that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly hostel, or an Airbnb, make sure it’s located in a safe and convenient area.
• Transportation: Determine the best mode of transportation for your trip. Los Angeles is known for its car-centric culture, but there are also public transportation options like buses, metro trains, and ride-sharing services. Consider renting a car if you want to explore the city at your own pace.
• Safety Precautions: Prioritize your safety as a solo traveler. Research the neighborhoods you plan to visit, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions like keeping your valuables secure and sticking to well-lit areas at night.
• Budgeting: Set a budget for your trip and factor in expenses such as accommodation, transportation, meals, attractions, and souvenirs. Consider using travel apps or websites to find discounts and deals.
• Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance to protect yourself in case of unforeseen events. Make sure your insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts including the local authorities, your accommodation, and a trusted family member or friend back home. It’s important to have someone you can reach out to in case of emergencies.
• Solo Activities: Research activities and attractions specifically suited for solo travelers. Many tours, museums, and events cater to individuals, providing opportunities to meet like-minded travelers and make new friends along the way.

Remember, planning your solo trip allows you to have a clear vision of what you want to experience and helps ensure a smooth and stress-free adventure. It’s an opportunity to create the perfect balance between scheduled activities and spontaneous exploration, allowing you to make the most of your time in Los Angeles.

Best Time to Visit LA

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means mild and pleasant weather year-round. However, there are certain times of the year that may offer a more optimal experience. Here are the best times to visit LA:

• Spring (March to May): Springtime in Los Angeles brings comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and lush greenery. It’s an excellent time to explore outdoor attractions like the Griffith Observatory or relax on the beaches without the crowds of the summer months.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in LA, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time to soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches or attend popular events like outdoor concerts or film festivals. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this time.
• Fall (September to November): Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. It’s an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains or strolling through the city’s many parks. Additionally, you might even catch the famous Santa Ana winds that bring warm and dry weather to the area.
• Winter (December to February): Although Los Angeles experiences mild winters, it’s still the coolest time of the year. This is the perfect season for art enthusiasts, as the city hosts various art events and exhibitions. You might also get a chance to witness the stunning Christmas light displays in places like Griffith Park or the Los Angeles Zoo.

It’s important to note that Los Angeles can experience occasional rain during the winter months, so be prepared with a light jacket or umbrella. Overall, the best time to visit LA is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and interests. Consider the activities you want to engage in and the crowd levels you’re comfortable with when planning your trip.

Whether you’re a sunseeker or someone who enjoys milder temperatures, Los Angeles offers a year-round destination for a memorable solo trip. Just choose the time of year that aligns with your preferences, and get ready to immerse yourself in the exciting energy of the City of Angels.

Getting to Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a major transportation hub with multiple options for getting there. Here are the most common methods of reaching the city:

• By Air: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main airport serving the city and is one of the busiest airports in the world. It is well-connected with domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers from all over the globe. Additionally, there are alternative airports in the area, such as Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and John Wayne Airport (SNA), which are options for those looking to avoid the congestion of LAX.
• By Car: If you are coming from within California or nearby states, driving to Los Angeles can be a scenic and flexible option. The city is connected to major highways, including Interstate 5, Interstate 10, and Highway 101. However, be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
• By Train: Amtrak provides train services to Los Angeles, with Union Station being the main hub. The Pacific Surfliner route is a popular choice for travelers coming from San Diego, Santa Barbara, or San Luis Obispo. The Coast Starlight route connects Los Angeles with cities like Seattle and Portland, offering breathtaking views along the way.
• By Bus: Several bus companies operate routes to Los Angeles, including Greyhound and Megabus. These options are often more affordable but may take longer than other modes of transportation. The main bus terminals in Los Angeles are Union Station and the Greyhound Station downtown.

Once you arrive in Los Angeles, there are various transportation options available to explore the city. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city center. However, you can also utilize public transportation, such as buses and the metro, which offer extensive coverage throughout the city.

Keep in mind that Los Angeles is a large and sprawling city, so travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions. It’s advisable to plan your routes and allow for extra time during peak hours. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular and convenient options for getting around LA.

Regardless of how you choose to travel to Los Angeles, arriving in this iconic city is just the beginning of your unforgettable solo journey. From the moment you set foot in LA, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant energy and endless possibilities.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling city with diverse neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and interests. When deciding where to stay for your solo trip, consider the following areas:

• Hollywood: This neighborhood is synonymous with the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. It’s a great choice if you want to be close to iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Dolby Theatre. Hollywood also offers a vibrant nightlife scene.
• Santa Monica: Located on the picturesque coastline, Santa Monica is ideal for those who want a beachfront experience. It offers a lively atmosphere, the famous Santa Monica Pier, and easy access to the beach. The neighborhood is known for its pedestrian-friendly Third Street Promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
• Downtown LA: For a more cosmopolitan and urban experience, consider staying in Downtown LA. This area boasts impressive skyscrapers, cultural institutions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad museum, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.
• West Hollywood: With its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, West Hollywood is a popular choice for travelers looking for lively nightlife, upscale dining, and boutique shopping. The neighborhood is also home to the famous Sunset Strip, known for its iconic music venues and landmarks.
• Venice Beach: If you’re seeking a more bohemian and eclectic vibe, Venice Beach is the place to be. Known for its quirky shops, colorful boardwalk, and street performers, this area offers a unique beachside atmosphere.

When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as budget, proximity to attractions, and safety. Los Angeles offers a wide range of options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and vacation rentals.

Popular hotel areas include Beverly Hills, where you can find luxury accommodations and upscale shopping, and Koreatown, known for its vibrant Korean community and diverse dining options.

It’s important to note that Los Angeles is a sprawling city, and getting around can take time, especially with traffic. Consider proximity to public transportation or rental car options if you plan to explore different parts of the city during your stay.

Ultimately, the best area to stay in Los Angeles depends on your interests and the experiences you hope to have. Consider what activities and attractions you want to prioritize, and choose an accommodation option that enhances your solo adventure.

Transportation in LA

Getting around Los Angeles can seem daunting due to its size and notorious traffic. However, there are several transportation options available that can help you navigate the city efficiently during your solo trip.

• Public Transportation: Los Angeles has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and metro trains. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) operates these services, and you can purchase a reusable TAP card to pay for fares. The Metro Rail consists of six lines that serve various parts of the city, and buses provide coverage to areas not covered by the rail system. This is a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you plan to stay in or near the downtown area.
• Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are popular and convenient in Los Angeles. They provide a comfortable and flexible option to travel within the city, especially if you want to avoid parking or don’t feel comfortable navigating public transportation. Simply download the app, request a ride, and a driver will pick you up at your location.
• Renting a Car: Renting a car is a common option for exploring Los Angeles, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city center. However, be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Keep in mind that parking can be challenging and expensive in certain areas, so it’s advisable to check parking options at your accommodation beforehand.
• Biking: Los Angeles has been working towards becoming a more bike-friendly city. There are numerous bike lanes and paths available, especially in areas like Venice Beach and along the Los Angeles River. You can rent a bike from various bike-sharing programs, such as Metro Bike Share or private bike rental shops, and enjoy exploring the city on two wheels.

When using public transportation or ride-sharing services, plan your routes in advance and allocate extra time, as travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions. Utilize transportation apps like Google Maps or Transit to help navigate through different modes of transportation and find the most efficient routes.

Depending on the areas you plan to visit, it may be necessary to use a combination of transportation options to maximize your time and minimize travel stress. Remember to use caution when traveling alone, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.

With a bit of planning and utilizing the various transportation options available, getting around Los Angeles can be an exciting and convenient part of your solo adventure.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in LA

Los Angeles is generally a safe city, but like any major urban area, it’s essential to take precautions, especially when traveling alone. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during your solo trip to LA:

• Research Neighborhoods: Before exploring a new area, research its safety and reputation. Stick to well-known and tourist-friendly neighborhoods, especially at night. Avoid wandering into unfamiliar or poorly lit areas alone.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Stay alert and aware of the people around you, especially in crowded places or public transportation. Avoid displaying expensive items that may attract unwanted attention.
• Use Reliable Transportation: Opt for reputable and licensed transportation options, such as taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. Be cautious when using unofficial or unregulated transportation services.
• Keep Valuables Secure: Keep your valuables, including your passport, cash, and electronics, secure while exploring the city. Use a money belt or a secure bag that is not easily accessible to pickpockets. It’s also a good idea to make digital copies of important documents.
• Share Your Itinerary: Inform a trusted friend or family member about your itinerary and check-in with them regularly. Provide them with your accommodation details, contact information, and any planned activities. This way, someone is aware of your whereabouts should anything go wrong.
• Avoid Walking Alone at Night: If possible, avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Opt for well-lit and busy streets, and consider using transportation or arranging for a ride when it’s dark. If you do find yourself walking alone at night, stay in well-populated areas and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use Hotel Safety Measures: Choose accommodation with adequate safety measures, such as secure entry systems and well-lit common areas. Make sure your room has a functioning lock and use the hotel’s safe to store your valuable belongings.
• Trust Your Instincts: Your intuition is a valuable tool. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Avoid engaging in risky or potentially dangerous activities.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts with you at all times, including the local authorities, your accommodation, and a trusted family member or friend back home. It’s important to have someone you can reach out to in case of emergencies.

Remember, these safety tips are meant to help you have a worry-free and enjoyable solo trip in Los Angeles. By staying alert, prepared, and cautious, you can make the most of your time in the city and create unforgettable memories.

Exploring Los Angeles Alone

Exploring Los Angeles alone allows you the freedom to curate your own unique adventure in the City of Angels. Here are some tips to make the most of your solo exploration:

• Create a Flexible Itinerary: Take advantage of your independence by creating a flexible itinerary. Include must-see landmarks and attractions, but also leave room for spontaneous adventures and discovery. Allow yourself the freedom to change plans on a whim and explore hidden gems you stumble upon.
• Discover Diverse Neighborhoods: Los Angeles is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct charm. Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore areas like Little Tokyo, Silver Lake, or the Arts District. This way, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the true essence of the city.
• Embrace Cultural Experiences: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, offering a wide range of unique cultural experiences. Visit the Getty Center for art enthusiasts, enjoy the vibrant flavors of Little Ethiopia, or explore the street art scene in the Arts District. Engaging with the city’s diverse cultural offerings will enrich your solo journey.
• Try Local Cuisine: Los Angeles is a food lover’s paradise, with a plethora of dining options to satisfy any craving. From food trucks and trendy fusion restaurants to traditional ethnic cuisines, LA has it all. Be adventurous and try the local favorites, such as tacos from a food truck or a famous In-N-Out Burger.
• Capture Iconic Landmarks: Don’t forget to capture those iconic Los Angeles landmarks, like the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory, or the Getty Villa. These landmarks serve as a reminder of your solo adventure and can make for stunning photographs.
• Connect with Local Community: Los Angeles has a welcoming and diverse community. Connect with locals and fellow travelers through Meetup groups, social events, or by participating in activities, workshops, or tours that cater to solo travelers. Engaging with others can enhance your experience and create potential lifelong connections.
• Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Los Angeles boasts beautiful weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Explore the beaches, hike through the Santa Monica Mountains, or go for a bike ride along the Venice Boardwalk. Enjoying nature while solo traveling allows for reflection and relaxation.

Remember to always prioritize your safety when exploring alone. Inform someone about your plans, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Los Angeles has plenty to offer to solo travelers, allowing you the freedom to create your own unique and unforgettable experiences in the vibrant heart of Southern California.

Top Attractions for Solo Travelers

Los Angeles is home to numerous iconic attractions that are perfect for solo travelers. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, breathtaking views, or a taste of the entertainment industry, here are some top attractions to explore during your solo trip:

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can find over 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring famous celebrities from the entertainment industry.
• Griffith Observatory: Enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles and the stars above at Griffith Observatory. Explore the exhibits, attend a planetarium show, and take a hike in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: Experience the magic of the movies at Universal Studios Hollywood. Take thrilling rides, explore the backlot tour, and immerse yourself in the world of your favorite films.
• The Getty Center: Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to The Getty Center. This renowned museum features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts set against stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Santa Monica Pier: Visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a lively and vibrant destination offering amusement park rides, games, street performers, and stunning ocean views. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or simply relax on the sandy beach.
• Griffith Park: Escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in nature at Griffith Park. Explore miles of trails, visit the Los Angeles Zoo, and marvel at the stunning Griffith Observatory.
• Getty Villa: Dive into ancient art and culture at the Getty Villa. Modeled after a Roman villa, this museum showcases Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and contemplation.
• La Brea Tar Pits: Step back in time and discover the preserved fossils at the La Brea Tar Pits. This unique attraction provides a glimpse into the prehistoric past of Los Angeles, offering a fascinating experience for history and science enthusiasts.
• Venice Beach: Experience the bohemian vibes of Venice Beach. Enjoy the colorful boardwalk, watch street performers, rent a bike, or simply relax on the beach while taking in the unique atmosphere of this eclectic neighborhood.
• The Broad: Art lovers should visit The Broad, a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. Marvel at works by artists like Jeff Koons, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Yayoi Kusama, and explore the museum’s architecturally striking interior.

These attractions offer a taste of the diverse experiences Los Angeles has to offer. Whether you’re fascinated by art, history, entertainment, or simply the city’s vibrant atmosphere, exploring these top attractions will ensure an unforgettable solo trip to the City of Angels.

Shopping and Dining Experiences in LA

Los Angeles is a paradise for both shopping enthusiasts and food lovers. From trendy boutiques to diverse culinary offerings, the city has something to satisfy every taste. Here are some top shopping and dining experiences to enjoy during your solo trip:

• Rodeo Drive: Indulge in luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This iconic street is known for its high-end designer boutiques, including Gucci, Versace, and Chanel. Even if you’re not in the mood to splurge, strolling down Rodeo Drive offers a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion.
• Third Street Promenade: Located in Santa Monica, Third Street Promenade is a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Explore a variety of stores, from well-known brands to unique boutiques, and take in the lively street performers and artists.
• The Grove: Experience open-air shopping at The Grove, an outdoor mall located next to the historic Farmers Market. Browse through a wide range of stores, catch a movie at the theater, and enjoy the charming atmosphere complete with fountains and a trolley ride.
• Grand Central Market: Delight your taste buds at Grand Central Market, a food hall in downtown LA. Explore the diverse food stalls offering international cuisine, from Mexican tacos to Thai street food and artisanal coffee. Enjoy your meal at communal tables, immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere.
• Little Tokyo: Dive into the vibrant culture of Little Tokyo, where you can shop for Japanese snacks, gifts, and traditional goods. Visit the Japanese Village Plaza, browse through anime and manga specialty shops, and indulge in authentic ramen or sushi at local restaurants.
• Olvera Street: Experience the birthplace of Los Angeles at Olvera Street, a historic marketplace in downtown. Discover vibrant Mexican culture with colorful shops selling traditional crafts, delicious street food, and live music. Don’t miss the famous taquitos and fresh churros.
• Ethnic Neighborhoods: Los Angeles is known for its diverse population, and exploring different ethnic neighborhoods offers a unique culinary adventure. Visit Koreatown for delicious Korean BBQ, Little Ethiopia for authentic Ethiopian cuisine, or Thai Town for mouthwatering Thai dishes.
• Farmers Markets: LA is home to numerous farmers markets, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal food products, and local crafts. Explore the Hollywood Farmers Market, Santa Monica Farmers Market, or the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax to indulge in local flavors.
• Food Trucks and Pop-up Markets: Los Angeles is famous for its thriving food truck and pop-up market scene. Follow popular food trucks on social media and discover unique culinary creations. Participate in food festivals and events where you can sample dishes from various vendors.

Los Angeles offers a vast array of shopping and dining options, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you’re searching for high-end fashion, exploring cultural markets, or indulging in diverse culinary experiences, the city’s shopping and dining scene guarantees a memorable solo trip.

Nightlife and Entertainment in LA

Los Angeles is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, offering a wide range of experiences for solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for live music, comedy shows, or trendy bars, the city has something for everyone. Here are some top recommendations for nightlife and entertainment in LA:

• Sunset Strip: Experience the iconic Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, known for its legendary music venues, famous rock clubs, and lively nightlife. Catch a live performance at venues like The Roxy Theatre or Whisky a Go Go, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and people-watching along the strip.
• Comedy Clubs: LA is home to some of the best comedy clubs in the country. Laugh the night away at venues such as The Comedy Store or The Laugh Factory, where you can catch performances by both up-and-coming comedians and well-known acts.
• Bars and Speakeasies: LA has a thriving bar scene with a diverse range of options. From trendy rooftop bars to hidden speakeasies, there’s something for every taste. Explore neighborhoods like Downtown LA and Silver Lake to find unique cocktail bars and enjoy a night out on the town.
• Hollywood Bowl: Immerse yourself in a magical concert experience at the Hollywood Bowl. This iconic outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of performances, from symphony orchestras and jazz ensembles to popular bands and artists. Pack a picnic, relax under the stars, and enjoy the music.
• Nightclubs and DJ Sets: If you’re in the mood for dancing and electronic music, LA offers a vibrant nightclub scene. Visit popular clubs like Exchange LA or Sound Nightclub, where renowned DJs electrify the dance floor with their sets.
• Live Music Venues: LA is a hotspot for live music, with venues catering to different genres and tastes. Explore venues like The Troubadour, The Greek Theatre, or The Wiltern for a chance to catch live performances ranging from rock and indie to jazz and blues.
• Art and Theater: Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural scene by attending live theater performances or exploring art exhibits. Check out theaters like the Ahmanson Theatre or the Mark Taper Forum for world-class theater productions, or visit art galleries in areas like Downtown LA or Culver City, showcasing diverse artwork from local and international artists.
• Late-Night Eateries: After a night of entertainment, satisfy your cravings at LA’s late-night eateries. From food trucks serving unique bites to 24-hour diners and taco stands, there’s no shortage of options to curb your hunger after a night out.

Los Angeles truly comes alive after dark, offering a diverse range of entertainment options. Whether you’re seeking live music, comedy, dancing, or simply a memorable night out, the city’s nightlife scene will ensure a solo adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Outdoor Activities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is blessed with beautiful weather year-round, making it the perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts. From exploring stunning landscapes to engaging in thrilling adventures, there are plenty of outdoor activities for solo travelers to enjoy. Here are some top recommendations:

• Hiking: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the many hiking trails in and around Los Angeles. Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park, and the Santa Monica Mountains offer breathtaking views of the city and opportunities to connect with nature. Remember to carry water, wear appropriate gear, and follow trail safety guidelines.
• Beach Time: Los Angeles is famous for its beautiful beaches. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores of Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, or Zuma Beach. You can also try out activities like surfing, paddleboarding, or beach volleyball.
• Bike Rides: Explore the city on two wheels by renting a bike and cruising along the beachfront paths. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as “The Strand,” offers miles of picturesque views along the coastline. You can also bike through scenic neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Manhattan Beach.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Enjoy the ocean from a different perspective by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Launch from Marina del Rey or Malibu and explore the stunning coastline, encountering marine life and enjoying the tranquility of the water.
• Picnics in Parks: Los Angeles is home to numerous parks and green spaces that are perfect for a solo picnic. Griffith Park, Echo Park, and Exposition Park offer sprawling grounds where you can relax, read a book, or have a picnic surrounded by nature.
• Outdoor Yoga: Join a yoga class in one of the city’s parks or head to the beach for a refreshing outdoor yoga session. Many local instructors and studios offer outdoor yoga classes, allowing you to unwind and connect with your body and mind in a serene setting.
• Visit Gardens and Arboretums: Take a peaceful stroll through stunning gardens and arboretums throughout Los Angeles. The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino offer beautifully landscaped gardens, while the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Descanso Gardens showcase an array of flora and fauna.
• Outdoor Concerts and Movies: During the summer months, enjoy outdoor concerts and movies in various parks and venues around the city. The Hollywood Bowl hosts renowned musicians and orchestras, while outdoor movie screenings can be found at locations like Rooftop Cinema Club and Street Food Cinema.

Whether you prefer an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a leisurely day surrounded by nature, Los Angeles provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Embrace the beautiful weather, take in the stunning landscapes, and enjoy the multitude of outdoor activities available during your solo trip.

Day Trips from Los Angeles

While Los Angeles offers a plethora of attractions and activities, there are also several exciting destinations within a short distance for those seeking day trips. Escape the city for a day and explore the beautiful surroundings with these top day trip recommendations:

• Santa Barbara: Just a couple of hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, Spanish architecture, and wine country. Explore the historic Santa Barbara Mission, roam the vibrant State Street lined with shops and restaurants, or relax on the stunning beaches.
• Malibu: Located on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Malibu offers pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and stunning coastal views. Visit the Getty Villa, hike in the Santa Monica Mountains, or simply spend the day sunbathing on Zuma Beach or Point Dume State Beach.
• Palm Springs: Head to Palm Springs, a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, palm-lined streets, and hot springs. Explore the unique boutiques and art galleries in the Uptown Design District, take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, or relax by a pool at one of the many resorts.
• Santa Monica Mountains: Just outside the city, the Santa Monica Mountains offer a retreat into nature with hiking trails, breathtaking views, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Explore destinations like Topanga State Park, hike to the iconic Hollywood sign, or take a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive.
• Joshua Tree National Park: Discover a unique desert landscape at Joshua Tree National Park, located a few hours east of Los Angeles. Hike among the distinctive Joshua Trees, rock climb, stargaze in one of the darkest night skies in Southern California, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of the desert surroundings.
• Solvang: Transport yourself to a charming Danish village by visiting Solvang, located a couple of hours north of Los Angeles. Explore the picturesque streets lined with Danish-style architecture, indulge in pastries, and learn about Danish culture at local museums.
• Laguna Beach: Escape to the beautiful coastal town of Laguna Beach, known for its scenic coves, art galleries, and vibrant art scene. Explore the tide pools, visit the Laguna Art Museum, or take a leisurely stroll through the charming downtown area.
• Catalina Island: Take a ferry to Catalina Island and experience a Mediterranean-like paradise off the coast of Southern California. Enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking, or explore the quaint town of Avalon with its shops, restaurants, and stunning vistas.

These day trip destinations offer a change of scenery and allow you to experience the beauty and diversity of Southern California beyond the borders of Los Angeles. Whether you’re seeking coastal serenity, desert escapes, or cultural exploration, these nearby destinations provide the perfect opportunity for a memorable day trip during your solo adventure.

Budgeting for Your Solo Trip

When planning a solo trip to Los Angeles, it’s important to establish a budget to ensure you have a clear understanding of your expenses and can make the most of your trip without overspending. Here are some tips for budgeting for your solo trip:

• Accommodation: Research different accommodation options and compare prices to find the best deal that fits your budget. Consider staying in budget-friendly hostels, shared rentals, or look for discounted rates on hotel booking websites.
• Transportation: Assess your transportation needs and budget accordingly. Consider utilizing public transportation, such as buses and metro trains, which offer affordable options for getting around the city. Alternatively, renting a car can provide more flexibility but comes with additional costs like gas, parking, and insurance.
• Meals and Dining: Set a daily allowance for meals and dining out. Explore the diverse food scene in LA, but be mindful of your expenses as dining at high-end restaurants can quickly add up. Consider incorporating budget-friendly options like food trucks or local eateries into your dining experiences.
• Activities and Attractions: Research the cost of activities and attractions you want to visit and prioritize them based on your interests and budget. Take advantage of free or low-cost attractions, such as exploring city parks, visiting public galleries or attending free events that are often available in Los Angeles.
• Entertainment: Allocate a portion of your budget for entertainment options like concerts, shows, or nightlife experiences. Look for discounted tickets or consider attending free concerts and events, which are often held throughout the city, especially during the summer months.
• Souvenirs and Shopping: Plan ahead for any souvenirs or shopping you may want to do. Set a separate budget for these expenses to avoid overspending. Consider exploring local markets, thrift stores, or outlet malls for more affordable options.
• Unexpected Expenses: It’s always wise to have a buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses, such as emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Having some extra funds can provide peace of mind and save you from unnecessary stress during your trip.
• Exchange Rates and Fees: If you’re traveling from another country, consider the exchange rates and potential fees associated with currency exchange. Research the most cost-effective ways to handle your money, such as using a credit card with low foreign transaction fees or withdrawing cash in local currency from reputable ATMs.

By creating a budget and monitoring your expenses, you can ensure that your solo trip to Los Angeles remains within your means. Remember, it’s possible to have a fulfilling and memorable experience without breaking the bank. With careful planning and smart spending, you can make the most of your budget and fully enjoy your solo adventure in the City of Angels.

Packing Tips for Solo Travelers

When embarking on a solo trip to Los Angeles, packing smartly can make your journey more enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some essential packing tips for solo travelers:

• Check the Weather: Before packing, check the weather forecast for Los Angeles during your travel dates. This will help you determine the types of clothing you’ll need, whether it’s lightweight and breathable fabrics for summer or layers for cooler evenings.
• Pack Versatile Clothing: Opt for clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Pack versatile pieces that can easily transition from day to night, saving space in your luggage. Remember to include comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.
• Travel-Sized Toiletries: To avoid lugging around large toiletry bottles, opt for travel-sized toiletries or invest in refillable travel containers. This will save space and comply with airline regulations if you’re traveling with carry-on luggage.
• Electronics and Chargers: Don’t forget to pack essential electronics such as your smartphone, camera, or tablet. Bring the necessary chargers, adapters, and power banks to keep your devices powered throughout your trip.
• Travel Documents: Keep all your travel documents organized in a secure and easily accessible place. This includes your passport, ID, boarding passes, travel insurance information, and any hotel or tour reservations. Consider making electronic copies of important documents and storing them in a cloud-based storage service.
• Safety Essentials: Pack safety essentials such as a money belt or neck pouch to keep your valuables secure while exploring. Don’t forget to bring a portable lock for your luggage and a first aid kit for minor emergencies.
• Snacks and Water Bottle: Carry snacks and a reusable water bottle with you, especially during long days of exploring. This will save you money and ensure that you stay hydrated and energized throughout your solo adventures.
• Travel Insurance: It’s crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Make sure to have the necessary documents and contact information easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Lightweight Daypack: Bring a lightweight daypack or backpack to carry your essentials during daily adventures. This can include your water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and any other items you need throughout the day.
• Research Local Customs: Before your trip, research local customs and dress codes. Los Angeles is generally casual and laid-back, but certain establishments may have specific dress requirements. Being aware of local customs will help you pack appropriate clothing and avoid any awkward situations.

Remember to pack responsibly and efficiently, considering the weight and size restrictions of your luggage. Packing light will make it easier to navigate through the city and ensure you have space for any souvenirs or new discoveries during your solo trip to Los Angeles.

A solo trip to Los Angeles offers an exciting and fulfilling adventure that allows you to tailor your experience to your own preferences and interests. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and beautiful outdoor spaces provide endless opportunities for exploration and self-discovery.

By planning your trip carefully, considering budgeting, packing, and safety tips, you can make the most of your solo adventure. Research the best time to visit, book your accommodation wisely, and plan your itinerary to include a mix of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

From strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Griffith Park, there is something for every solo traveler in Los Angeles. Delight your taste buds with diverse cuisine, discover hidden gems in vibrant neighborhoods, and connect with locals to create meaningful memories along the way.

Remember to prioritize your safety, trust your instincts, and be open to the unexpected. Los Angeles welcomes solo travelers with open arms, providing a friendly and diverse atmosphere that encourages exploration and adventure.

So, pack your bags, embrace the possibilities, and embark on a solo trip to the City of Angels. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or thrilling entertainment, Los Angeles promises an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and unforgettable experiences.

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Globe Gazers

LA Travel: The Best Solo Things to do in Los Angeles, California Alone (2024)

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Looking for fun things to do alone in Los Angeles?

When I decided to go exploring LA solo on my first visit, I was both excited and nervous. LA is huge, as everyone kept reminding me. And while that means there are plenty of fun things to do by yourself in Los Angeles it also means it has the potential to get overwhelming.

Thankfully, my 2 days in Los Angeles were smooth sailing and I know yours will be too if you follow this 2 day itinerary and guide for the best solo things to do in Los Angeles, California alone.   

Looking for more solo travel tips? Read the essential guide for how to plan a solo trip !

Things to do Alone in Los Angeles

Is la good for solo travel.

Los Angeles is a perfect solo travel destination with plenty to do so you’ll never be bored.

You can go shopping, spend some time at the Santa Monica Pier, stroll along the beach, join a group tour for a Hollywood Hills hike, visit an art museum like LACMA and more.

There are plenty of fun things to do by yourself in LA, read this guide for a solo trip itinerary for Los Angeles!

Where to Stay in Los Angeles | Solo Female Travel Edition

This was one of my biggest questions as I prepared for solo female travel Los Angeles style — where should my home base be?

I was seeking somewhere sort of central and definitely walkable. Several people suggested Santa Monica and turns out, that was the perfect suggestion for my needs.

Of course, where you stay will depend on what kind of experience you want. With LA being as big as it is, I was advised to pick an area to stay where I’d want to spend a majority of my time.

This was especially important because I’d decided against renting a car. Navigating LA traffic? Not my idea of a fun vacation. 

Santa Monica is walkable, near the beach and proved close enough by rideshare to everywhere I wanted to visit similar to most cities within the United States. In my opinion, near Santa Monica Pier is one of the best places for solo travelers to stay.

Here are some Santa Monica hotels to consider for your LA solo trip:

• The Mediterrannean-style Palihouse Santa Monica , a few minutes’ walking to 3d Streer Promenade
• The boutique Ambrose Hotel which offers free transportation within 3.1 miles of the hotel
• The luxurious Santa Monica Proper Hotel with an on-site spa and yoga terrace

How to Get from LAX to Santa Monica

Getting from LAX to Santa Monica was also a breeze. Because I had the time, I took a public bus and saved my rideshare dollars for later in the trip. I’m a fan of trying out the public transportation in new cities because it gives me a more genuine feel for a place.

I followed these instructions . Between those and asking some people for help as needed along the way (the bus driver couldn’t be bothered) I navigated to my final destination. 

2 Day Itinerary: Solo Female Travel Los Angeles – Day 1

If you find yourself wondering, how can I have fun in LA alone? Then read on for some ideas on how to spend a day in LA alone!

Treat Yourself to a Philz Mint Mojito

Once you’ve arrived and freshened up at your accommodations, head to Philz Coffee on Ocean Ave for the most delicious concoction of all time — mint mojito coffee.

I’ve had my reservations and curiosities about it in equal parts ever since it first started popping up on my Instagram feed. The barista convinced me to go for it and I’ll never look back.

So glad to have a couple Philz Coffee shops in Chicago now so I can get my fix on the regular! A visit to Philz Coffee is the best way to start your day in LA.

If you’re feeling peckish, grab one of their breakfast sandwiches, toasts or pastries. Or, if it’s closer to lunch time find a place to snack along nearby Third Street Promenade. 

Sidenote: I walked from my accommodations to Philz Coffee on Ocean Ave because I walk most places when I travel. It’s doable, but if you’re not as comfortable in new cities I recommend a rideshare. 

Stroll Along Third Street Promenade

Do you enjoy shopping while traveling? Then definitely spend some time exploring Third Street Promenade.

Even if that’s not your thing you can walk down the lively outdoor mall area, rest in one of the many public chairs and listen to some live music.

If you’re hungry, pop into Gallery Food Hall and grab a bite to eat. On Tuesdays, their Azule Taqueria offers ‘Taco Tuesday’ specials. 

Visit Santa Monica’s Wednesday Farmers Market

As you can tell by its name, the big day for this market is Wednesdays (though it’s also open on weekends). Learn more about the schedule, entry points and vendors here .

The Wednesday Farmers Market has great reviews and is apparently where locals chefs go for many of their ingredients, so you’ll be shopping alongside some of the best. 

Explore Santa Monica Pier

This small but lively amusement park is bursting with energy and great if you’re looking for chill things to do alone in Los Angeles. If you’re up for some adventure, go on some of the rides at this mini theme park.

If you’re feeling more chill, like I was, simply walk the pier and take it all in. With sounds of laughter alongside views of both sand and beach it’s the most relaxing amusement park I’ve been to!

Catch a Santa Monica Sunset 

Settle in on the sand for a beachside sunset. There’s something special about being fully present for a California sunset and taking in the great views for a solo sunset date was one of my 27 Epic Once in a Lifetime Things to do in Los Angeles “>favorite things to do on this trip.

If you’d rather enjoy the view with dinner, head to nearby Elephante and see if you can snag a balcony seat. This was one of my favorite places to eat on my visit to LA as the food and ambience were both lovely.

Dine in LA Solo at Uovo

If you prefer a dining experience that’s better suited for a solo trip to Los Angeles then head to Uovo. Not only do they fly their handmade pasta in from their kitchen in Bologna, they cater to solo diners.

You’ll be seated around a bar that looks into their kitchen, where you can watch chefs prep meals as you sip on wine and carbo-load. It’s a great way to enjoy a solo dinner. No awkwardness for the solo traveler here.

Tip: Be sure to ask what their special of the night is before ordering, as it won’t be on the menu. 

Catch a Show 

If you have more energy after dinner, consider taking in a show at The Broad Stage or Westside Comedy Theater.

There’s also no shame in heading back to your accommodations for a little TV and an early bedtime so you can avoid travel burnout ! That’s the great thing about solo travel, you can always do exactly as you please.

2 Day Itinerary Los Angeles Solo Female Travel – Day 2

Join a morning sound bath beach meditation .

There’s something so LA about participating in a wellness experience on the beach. After much research, I booked this Airbnb experience with a local.

I’d participated in an Airbnb experience in Denver before and enjoyed it, so was looking forward to this one. Unfortunately for me, there were unusually strong winds during my visit (did I bring them with me from Chicago??).

The experience was cancelled and the woman running it called me with the update while I was in my Lyft on the way over. It was either cancel, or eat sand for breakfast. Through that lens, I can make my peace with the cancellation. 

But I encourage you to book it if you’re interested in trying a similar experience. She was kind with good communication and good reviews. I’m sure the experience would have been lovely sans wind. 

Try Bulletproof Coffee

With my experience cancelled, I asked my Lyft driver to please reroute me to Bulletproof Coffee. I’d planned to go there after the meditation anyway, so I continued with the itinerary for the day.

I’d been wanting to try this high-calorie, butter-laced coffee for some time and vacation in LA was the perfect time to make it happen. They have a variety of options but as a first-timer, I opted with the most standard so I could get a true taste for it. 

My review? It was pretty delicious with a comforting texture! Would I drink it on the regular? Probably not because it’s high-calorie, high-dollar and high-effort [to make at home] but it was fun to try.  

Head to Venice Beach

From Bulletproof Coffee I walked to Venice Beach, another of LA’s top tourist attractions. If you plug ‘Venice sign’ into Google maps it will guide you toward the perfect place to enter.

Along the way, you’ll pass the popular Abbot Kinney Blvd close enough to take a detour to check it out if you don’t mind going off track a bit. It’s a popular street lined with shops, bars, etc.

Although its one of the top things to do in LA according to several travel guides I skipped it this time around and kept making my way to Venice. 

It was still early in the day when I arrived so the boardwalk was quiet. The first skaters were warming up in the skatepark and shops were just beginning to open.

Aside from the fact that it was too early for any action at muscle beach, I couldn’t have picked a better time for me to visit Venice Beach.

I spent some time soaking in views of the sand, water, mountains and skate tricks before realizing it was time for breakfast. 

Breakfast at Flake 

A quick Yelp search led me to choose Flake as my breakfast spot this day. I walked over and ordered a hearty croissant sandwich that I knew at first sight would keep me full until dinner!

Visit Griffith Observatory

From Flake, hop an Uber or Lyft and head to this gem for sweeping views of LA from an observation deck. Griffith Observatory is one of the main attractions LA has to offer.

If you time it right, you’ll catch another sunset over this large city from up high. Sunset really is the best time to visit if you’re after stunning views.

The Observatory itself is actually a planetarium but I didn’t spend much time exploring indoors (read: I basically only went inside to charge my phone…).

Griffith Park was all about the gorgeous views for me. You can even spot and snap a picture with the iconic Hollywood sign from here. 

Psst, want to know how to capture great travel photos of yourself while traveling? Check out my secret — this tripod for your phone !

Check out Koreatown for Dinner 

Though finding a Lyft to bring me to Griffith Observatory was easy enough, getting down was a bit trickier. Note that wifi is pretty weak up top.

There were taxis lined up to take folks down so rather than wait to try to catch a wifi signal I hopped a cab to my next destination. 

I had plans to meet friends in Koreatown for dinner. There are plenty of well-known dining options, like Park’s BBQ which came up numerous times in my research.

But in the end, we settled on Guelaguetza for Oaxcan food. With fast service and live music it did not disappoint (although we definitely over-ordered so be mindful of the big portions!).

Afterwards, we went to Sul & Beans for dessert (amazing, you cannot go wrong). 

Conclusion: Los Angeles Solo Female Travel Itinerary | Things to do Alone in Los Angeles

There are plenty of solo things to do in Los Angeles. LA is huge so while you certainly won’t see it all with only 2 days in Los Angeles you can make a bit of a dent with this 2 day itinerary.

Los Angeles has plenty to offer, and I’m providing a few more suggestions below.

Have 3 days in Los Angeles or more? Want to swap out one of the activities above for something more your speed?

Check out these additional ideas for places to go alone in Los Angeles:

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art / LACMA (you’ve likely seen artsy photos of their lamp posts on Instagram)
• Hollywood Walk of Fame / Hollywood Boulevard
• Rodeo Drive
• Chinese Theatre
• Beverly Hills
• Getty Center
• Universal Studios Hollywood

Staying in California a bit longer? If you end up along Big Sur definitely plan a stop at Nepenthe Restaurant. The food is alright and the views are incredible. 

Visiting San Diego or San Jose while you’re in the area? Those guides will provide a jumpstart for your additional California-cation planning.

Want more solo travel advice? Read these tips on how to plan a solo trip .

And how to leverage them!

A list of my favorite Facebook groups for fellow solo travelers, with tips on how to make the most of them.

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Nausheen is a solo female traveler who is passionate about travel as a way to increase self love and confidence. She focuses on slow travel and bouts of digital nomadism, and has experience living abroad across several continents. As a post-divorce, South Asian woman in her 30s Nausheen aims to empower fellow women of color in particular to live life on their own terms. She shares travel itineraries, tips and inspiration on her blog and social media channels.

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Solo Travel , United States

Solo travel guide to los angeles.

The following is a guest post by Mimi McFadden from The Atlas Heart . A California native and al pastor burrito enthusiast, she has spent 24+ years living in California in three different cities and regions of the Golden State and published a book about California road trips in 2020.

Los Angeles is a city that was meant for solo travel.

The City of Stars is full of transplants. These are usually people who move to the city by themselves without knowing a soul, all for the chance to make it big in Hollywood or at a major record label.

This is all to say that the city is designed for the solo traveller in mind, and, in such a huge metropolis, it’s easy to blend into the beating heart of LA without ever feeling alone.

Although Los Angeles sometimes gets a bad rap, the city is what you make of it and if you know what you’re doing and where you’re going solo travel in Los Angeles can be a lot of fun!

There are a lot of unique activities to enjoy in Los Angele s as a solo traveller. In this guide, you’ll discover a few favourite picks as someone who has visited the city solo multiple times.

Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles as a Solo Traveller

Universal studios hollywood.

Although going to an amusement park by yourself may seem like an odd thing to do, it’s the perfect excuse to take advantage of the solo visitor benefits at Universal Studios.

The best part about going solo to Universal Studios Hollywood is the single rider lines. These allow you to bypass the line for many popular rides if you’re a single rider.

The rides with a single ride line include:

• Revenge of the Mummy
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic Park: The Ride

This alone is worth visiting the park by yourself because ride wait times can be painstakingly long, especially during peak season.

If you’re wondering about how to get pictures of yourself if you’re travelling solo (especially if you want to capture your first sip of a refreshing butterbeer in Hogsmeade), there are plenty of friendly staff who are used to taking pictures for guests.

Lastly, if you’re worried about carrying your stuff around with you all day, there are lockers so you don’t have to worry about anyone having to watch your stuff.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is an ideal spot to visit as a solo traveller because it’s the welcoming hippie neighbourhood of LA.

You’ll see just about everything in Venice Beach, from dreadlocks to vegan cafes and drum circles. Sometimes the best thing you can do in Venice Beach is to simply people watch and take in the scene in front of you.

Once you’ve walked around the boardwalk and perused the outdoor craft stalls, grab lunch at The Rose Venice, head to the beach (just don’t leave your stuff unattended), watch the skateboarders at the skate park, and walk over to the beautiful Venice Canals.

Grab a Drink at The Know Where Bar

If you want to experience Los Angeles nightlife, it doesn’t have to be intimidating as a solo traveller.

Skip the clubs and head to the local watering hole called The Know Where Bar on Hollywood Boulevard, where bartenders are friendly and drinks are tasty.

The bar oozes a 1930s vibe and is best-visited solo during the week when it has a more low key vibe. Don’t miss out on trying one of their unique Mezcal cocktails before you leave.

Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign

For one of the best views looking out over Los Angeles and a famous movie filming location (Rebel Without a Cause, La La Land, etc), head to the Griffith Observatory.

Visiting the Observatory and its surrounding jaw-dropping views is one of the best free things to do in the city. This is also a good spot to view the Hollywood Sign from afar or hike up to it.

If you want to hike to the Hollywood Sign, just know that it’s further than it looks. The hike that starts from Griffith Park is six miles roundtrip and is a somewhat strenuous uphill climb.

For solo travellers, it’s best to take public transit or a rideshare up to the park since parking can be impossible, especially on weekends and holidays.

Record Stores, Farmers Markets and the Flea Market

One of the best things to do as a solo traveler in Los Angeles is to go shopping!

There are plenty of shopping areas around the city, but if you want a more unique shopping experience head to one of the many hipster record stores, colourful farmers markets, or the monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market (Second Sunday of each month).

For vinyls, check out Amoeba Music, Headline Records, and Record Surplus.

For farmers markets, the most famous (and touristy) one is The Original Farmers Market, which is open every day.

If you want to go to a more local market, check out the Santa Monica Farmers Market (Wed & Sat), Silver Lake Farmers Market (Tues & Sat), or the Altadena Farmers Market (Wed).

The Rose Bowl Flea Market only happens once a month, but if you can time it right you’ll get to see the inside of Rose Bowl Stadium and shop through an eclectic variety of antiques, apparel, and crafts from over 2500 vendors. Admission to the flea market starts at $9 per person.

Hike at Runyon Canyon Park

Hiking is as much a part of Los Angeles culture as famous award shows are, and a good place to go solo hiking in the city is Runyon Canyon Park.

The Canyon is one of LA’s most popular local hiking spots, which means it’s unlikely you’ll find yourself alone on the trail or in too remote of a location if you get into a sticky situation.

As a bonus, you’ll probably come across a few friendly canines along the way since Runyon Canyon Park is a popular dog park.

Tackle the 3.3-mile Runyon Canyon Loop trail, which gives you a decent workout and takes you to the top of the park for a stunning lookout.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

When I’m travelling solo and craving company, going on a tour can be one of the best ways to meet other people and have a built-in group for a few hours.

One of the most popular tours you can do in Los Angeles is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. If you’re a fan of movies and you’ve always wanted to see what a movie set looks like, this is a good tour option.

At Warner Bros., you can choose from a few different tours that take you around the oldest and most famous movie sets in LA.

Tours are anywhere from three to six hours. A good one to start with if you’ve never been to Warner Bros. before is the three-hour Original Studio Tour .

The Last Bookstore

Another favourite pastime as a solo traveller is getting lost in cosy bookstores.

The Last Bookstore has become a popular Instagram spot in recent years, but regardless if you’re on the ‘gram or not, this is a good spot to get lost in for an hour or two.

Housed in what used to be a bank, the bookstore features a unique atmosphere, local art, vinyl, and, of course, plenty of books. They’re especially known for their vintage books selection, so if you love perusing through old books this is a good place to visit.

Have a Museum Day

Checking out the best museums in a new city can be a great way to spend a day as a solo traveller. Luckily, Los Angeles has a plethora of different types of museums – from wacky, to weird and world-renowned.

A good museum to start with is the LACMA, which is LA’s most popular art museum. As the largest art museum in the western USA, you could easily spend the whole day walking through the exhibits at this museum.

Just make sure you have some comfortable travel shoes because you’ll be on your feet for most of the day.

Right outside of the LACMA is the Instagram-famous “Urban Light” art installation, which is most impressive once the sun goes down.

The LACMA is also in the Miracle Mile neighbourhood and located on “Museum Row”, so there are plenty of options for other museums to visit in the vicinity.

Another museum that shouldn’t be missed nearby is La Brea Tar Pits, which features ancient fossils and is the only active urban Ice Age excavation site in the world.

Other good museums to visit while you’re in Los Angeles include:

• The Broad (for contemporary art)
• Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
• Museum of Tolerance
• The Getty Center & The Getty Villa

Descanso Gardens

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to visit without ever having to leave the city, the Descanso Gardens are an urban oasis in Northern Los Angeles County.

The gardens are located in a 150-acre botanical park that is as lush as it is rejuvenating.

You can either spend your time walking around the impressive horticultural displays or enjoy one of the many concerts, events, or classes they offer at the gardens.

Best Accommodation Options in Los Angeles for Solo Travelers

Freehand Los Angeles – The Freehand is one of the most popular hotels for solo female travelers in Los Angeles.

The best thing about the Freehand, besides its impeccable interior decor and 24-hour security, is that it offers both private and shared rooms.

This means you have the option to get social in a dorm-style room or to indulge in a private room while enjoying a more social atmosphere in the common spaces.

The Freehand is located in Downtown Los Angeles, so it’s central and easy to get to and from on public transit.

El Royale Hotel – Near Universal Studios – El Royale Hotel is a solid budget to mid-range option for solo travelers who want to be central without spending a ton on accommodation.

This boutique hotel is nestled at the foot of the Hollywood Hills, near Universal Studios, making it central enough to be convenient but not right in the middle of the city.

The property is especially known for its friendly and welcoming service, which goes a long way when you’re traveling alone in a new city.

Venice Beach House – If you want to have a more relaxed atmosphere for your Los Angeles accommodation, head over to the Venice Beach House.

Established in 1911, this Venice Beach staple has been welcoming guests for over a century. This is a good spot to book if you’re looking to indulge in a more luxurious, personal, and peaceful stay as a solo traveller.

The property also features gardens that are nicknamed “The Oasis of Venice Beach” and it’s only a few minutes from the beach.

How to Get Around Los Angeles as a Solo Traveler

As with most Southern California cities, the easiest and fastest way to get around Los Angeles is by car.

Unfortunately, renting a car means you’re adding to the congestion that is already prevalent in Los Angeles. If you’re driving, be prepared to regularly sit in traffic and pay for parking in most areas. And whatever you do, avoid rush hour at all costs.

The public transit isn’t as great in Los Angeles as it is in San Francisco and New York, but it has become slightly better in recent years. If you’re sticking to mostly central spots around the city, it can be a good way to get around.

If you want to use public transit, grab a TAP transit card for the rail and bus. You can pick up a card at one of the TAP vending machines at Metro Rail Stations, online, or you can search for additional vendors here.

Lastly, rideshares and taxis are a common way to get around the city. Uber and Lyft both operate in Los Angeles, and there are motorized scooters and electric bike shares throughout the city as well.

Los Angeles Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

• As with any big city, be aware of your surroundings. Never leave your belongings unattended.
• If you’re renting a car, never leave any valuables in your car.
• The tap water in Los Angeles is not the best. Most locals drink filtered water.
• Pickpockets are common around the main tourist areas of Los Angeles, especially Hollywood Boulevard and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don’t have your wallet visible or in your back pocket. If you’re carrying a purse, it’s best to have a crossover style.
• Always make copies of your personal documents (e.g. your passport and ID)
• Don’t get overly intoxicated if you’re by yourself, especially if you’re not that familiar with where you are.
• Earthquakes are common in California. If you’re near the water, make sure you know where to exit the tsunami zone.
• Wildfires have become commonplace in California in recent years. Although this probably won’t affect you if you’re staying in the city, be aware of current conditions – especially if you’re in more forested areas.

I hope that helps you plan your solo trip to Los Angeles! Solo travel in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be intimidating, as you can see. So why not get planning your solo LA trip!

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Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

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Very informative article people who travel solo like me, am a solo traveller from India. And I’m very happy to read your article.

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A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Los Angeles

In a city as sprawling as Los Angeles , it’s easy to blend into the crowd, and it’s this sense of invisibility that makes it an ideal place to discover on your lonesome. Without anyone else to think about, you can experience natural wonders, treat yourself to some pampering and kick back – all on your own schedule.

Take a hike.

In Los Angeles, hiking is practically a religion. There is no finer way to get in some exercise, enjoy nature and take in a sweeping view of the city. Go for an urban hike by finding the secret staircases that are hidden all over LA, or trek into one of the public parks. Griffith Park has a variety of hikes of varying difficulties, while Barnsdall Art Park offers a relatively easy nature walk with the added bonus of passing the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Hollyhock House. Alternatively, you could opt for the most famous hike in Los Angeles, the Runyon Canyon Loop. It’s about 3mi (5km) in total, is relatively easy and provides great views of the Hollywood Sign (and possibly a celebrity sighting, if you’re into that kind of thing).

Go to the beach

You don’t need volleyball partners to have a good time at the beach. The people watching on Venice Boardwalk is best when you can stroll at your own pace, and you can always head to the water for more peace and quiet; or cruise to Malibu to find beautiful views and a much less tourist-filled experience.

Take a scenic drive

If you’ve secured a rental for your trip, take a scenic drive through the winding canyon roads of LA or along the famous Mulholland Drive. At night, you can usually skip any traffic and enjoy a true joyride with your favorite music on the stereo and absolutely no one trying to make small talk. Just be careful – it’s beautiful, but twists like a serpent.

Hit the spa

Sure, some people like to have group spa visits, but there’s no better place to unwind alone than a quality day spa. Sip cucumber water, zone out in the steam room, bake in the sauna or enjoy a massage or body treatment. One of LA’s most famous spas is WiSpa, a huge 24-hour Korean spa that offers numerous rooms, saunas, pools and a restaurant (some areas of the spa are nude, but don’t be shy). Otherwise, Los Angeles has numerous hotel spas that are just made for pampering, including the bright-white Ciel Spa at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, as well as smaller, independent offerings such as the Larchmont Sanctuary Spa in the very charming Larchmont Village.

Have a cocktail

Going out for beers with a friend is one thing, but treating yourself to a splendidly made cocktail is another. A favorite mixology spot is the fanciful Lock & Key in Koreatown, where guests are first presented with a wall containing dozens of door knobs. Only one door knob allows entrance to the bar, making it a bit of an Indiana Jones adventure just to get inside. Once through, a rotating menu of innovative cocktails – with ingredients such as black sesame and pear brandy – is available, as well as elevated bar bites. Alternatively, head downtown and enjoy a poolside cocktail at the Ace rooftop bar. Drink menus change regularly, revolving around nebulous themes such as birds or public transit. There’s usually also a frozen blended drink that goes far beyond your pedestrian piña colada. If tiki is your thing, you could drink like a local at Tiki-Ti , a tiny, cash-only tiki bar in Los Feliz that only fits a handful of patrons at a time. The drinks are strong, the snacks are free and the regulars are friendly.

Do karaoke by yourself

Practice all your favorite karaoke jams by renting a private karaoke room at one of the studios in Koreatown or Little Tokyo (try Max Karaoke ). Choose from hundreds of songs and belt them out to your heart’s content without anyone around to judge you. Once your tunes are up to speed, hit up Brass Monkey , R Bar or Backstage Bar and make some new friends.

Go to a museum

Museums are perfect for alone time. See gorgeous pieces of thought-provoking modern art at LACMA , The Broad or the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA ; wander the gardens of the Getty Center; or browse ancient artefacts at the Getty Villa. For something more macabre, check out the Museum of Death on Hollywood Boulevard, where letters from serial killers, mortuary ephemera and crime-scene photos creep guests out on a daily basis. For a bittersweet adventure, there’s the Museum of Broken Relationships , where each item comes from a person who has lost a loved one.

See an immersive play

Los Angeles has a spectacular immersive theater scene, in which audience members are swept into the performances and often required to interact with the actors. These are perfect for solo travelers, as they allow guests to become fully enveloped in their narratives, and audience members who came in groups are often split up anyhow. Check to see what companies such as the Speakeasy Society , Just Fix It Productions , Scout Expedition Co. and Shine On Collective are showing, or check the immersive LA newsletter No Proscenium for a complete rundown of current shows.

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The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles Solo

Last Updated on September 16, 2023

If you’re looking for things to do in LA solo , then keep on reading. As a local Angelino, I’ve had my fair share of solo adventures in LA- the city is truly filled to the brim with fun places to go by yourself.

Los Angeles is an extremely popular metropolis situated right on the warm coast of Southern California. While famous for many things (ever heard of the Kardashians?), the city is well known for its warm weather, Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, celebrity sightings, and countless things to do and food to eat.

There are virtually unlimited amazing things to do alone in Los Angeles , which makes it the perfect destination for your solo trip. Los Angeles is full of fun things to do for solo travelers, whether it’s your first time or you’re planning your 20th solo trip.

From delicious food to hiking the iconic Hollywood Sign and everything in between, you’ll be wishing you could extend your stay in LA to experience it all.

Even as an LA resident of many years, I can honestly say that even I haven’t been able to experience all there is to do alone in Los Angeles. I’m always out and about experiencing the city, so that’s saying something.

To help solo travelers like myself have the best time in LA, I created this complete list of things to do in LA solo. So stop your “places to go alone near me” search query, and keep reading. Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Los Angeles solo. Get ready to have the best time of your life in this famous city, and maybe even the best solo trip to date.

Table of Contents

Hike the Hollywood Sign

No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without hiking to the Hollywood Sign ! Sure, you can see the famous Hollywood Sign from many other viewpoints throughout LA, but nothing beats getting up close and personal with the iconic Hollywood Sign by hiking to it.

Especially when you’re traveling solo, it’s very easy to hike to the sign at your own pace, snap photos along the way, and soak in the amazing views, all without feeling rushed or slowed down. Here’s a map of the address for the starting point of the hike:

If hiking alone sounds lonely or even a little intimidating, then you can take a guided tour to the sign instead! These tours provide you with a personal tour guide and are a great way to meet other solo travelers along the way as you visit LA. Here are great tours of the Hollywood Sign we recommend:

Take a Walk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Continuing in the Hollywood area, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an absolute must when visiting Los Angeles solo. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a sidewalk, on both sides along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, that is lined with thousands of golden stars with the names of celebrities who have made major contributions to the entertainment industry.

Even better, the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame is one of the free things to do alone in Los Angeles, depending on what you’re into of course. If you’re hungry, there are countless dining options and fast food joints along Hollywood Boulevard.

If you’re into the film industry, you absolutely have to visit the timeless TCL Chinese Theatre. Make sure to make a stop at the famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum as well, where you can find hundreds of life-size and lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities. Just be sure to buy your ticket in advance here – they tend to sell out fast.

Electric Bike or Segway Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach

Hands down, one of the best things for solo travelers to do alone in Los Angeles is either an electric bike tour or a segway tour of both Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

During these tours, you either bike or ride a segway through the areas of both Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Sure, you can walk these areas, but the Venice Boardwalk is several miles long and will take a lot of time to explore on foot. To maximize your time on your solo trip, these tours allow you to see both of these popular areas in a fraction of the time.

The tours take you for a ride along both Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach, the Santa Monica Pier, the dreamy Venice Canals, and much more. Your tour guide is local to the LA area and can answer any questions you have, give you insight into specific art and architectural pieces, and much more.

This group tour is yet another great way to meet fellow solo travelers as well to really round out your trip to LA!

Take Surf Lessons

If there’s one thing that Southern California takes the title for, it’s the ridiculously beautiful beaches and amazing surf. If you’ve been wanting to learn how to surf , a solo trip to LA is the perfect opportunity to finally mark this one off your bucket list. Head to Santa Monica for the best surfing lesson tours.

These surf lesson tours are perfect for just about everyone, regardless of whether you’re a beginner, an enthusiast, or a serious surf shredder.

What’s even better is that you’ll be joined by a small group of other travelers! This makes it easier to help one another in learning to surf and allows you to make friends in the process.

Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

For the solo traveler visiting Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is an absolute must. Having visited the LACMA multiple times, I can truly say that it’s truly a unique and fun experience every time.

The huge collection of artwork is truly a showcase of the amazing artists in LA and beyond and originates from many different eras and cultures, so there’s truly something for any and everyone to enjoy.

One of the best things about visiting the LACMA solo is that you can enjoy the galleries at your own pace. When you visit, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to take it all in. Take a moment to appreciate each piece and let it speak to you.

Be sure to get the free audio guide, which adds even more depth and context to the artwork as you explore the LACMA. And, of course, don’t forget to take a few pics at the famous Urban Light installation outside the museum – it’s a ridiculously Instagram-worthy spot!

To make the most of your visit, arrive early to avoid the tourist crowds and buy your ticket online to skip the line. When you need a break, head to the beautiful outdoor spaces, like the Sculpture Garden, to recharge your batteries.

Without a doubt, you’ll leave LACMA feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and ready to take on even more of the LA fun!

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Let’s face it: most people tend to think of theme parks as more of a family-oriented activity, and there’s definitely truth in this. However, Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the few outlier theme parks that is truly perfect for solo travelers.

From the usual adrenaline-pumping rides to the many immersive shows and themed attractions, there’s truly something for any and everyone partaking in solo travel.

One of the best benefits of visiting Universal Studios Hollywood solo is that you have the freedom to explore the theme park itself at your own pace. You can take as much time as you want and enjoy every single ride and attraction without worrying about keeping up with a group.

And with dedicated single-rider lines, you don’t have to wait in long queues like the rest of the travelers, which allows even more time to experience everything.

A few tips for travel solo visitors: arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of shorter wait times, and be sure to buy your ticket online in advance:

While you can absolutely save money by purchasing a general admission ticket, consider splurging on the Express Ticket to make the most of your day. You’ll skip the line for admission into the park as well as for every single ride/attraction once you get inside. This saves a huge amount of time.

Chow Down at the Grand Central Market

If you want your solo trip to include amazing eats, then you have to check out the Grand Central Market, an absolute foodie paradise in Los Angeles! With more than 40 vendors serving up all kinds of delicious eats, this gem is truly a melting pot of various flavors and cultures.

Grand Central Market showcases two things: 1. Just how amazing the food is in LA, and 2. How truly culturally diverse Los Angeles is. You can enjoy everything from Mexican street tacos and Filipino bowls to juicy burgers and artisanal coffee.

To start off your visit, be sure to head over to G&B Coffee for a quick cup of joe. From there, grab some quick bits and one (or more) of the many food vendors in the market (I love tacos so my favorite is easily Tacos Tumbras a Tomas).

And don’t forget to snap a photo of the famous “Angel’s Flight” staircase nearby.

This market is not only a food lover’s dream but also a great place to meet new people and make some new friends, especially for those doing a bit of solo travel. So, don’t be shy- strike up a conversation with your fellow travelers while enjoying some good eats.

Grand Central Market is an absolute must-visit hot spot for solo diners that you won’t want to miss during your solo trip to Los Angeles.

Visit the Los Angeles Zoo

The Los Angeles Zoo is yet another great addition to your LA solo trip itinerary. You can explore the roughly 133 acres of land and see more than 1,400 animals from all around the world.

From the adorable meerkats to the majestic elephants, this zoo offers an educational and exciting experience for visitors of all ages. What’s really amazing about this zoo is that it’s a world-class animal care institution that exceeds the AZA’s comprehensive standards for excellence in animal management, welfare, safety, conservation, and more.

This means that when you visit, you’re supporting the protection and care of the amazing animals at the zoo.

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes because you’ll most likely be doing a lot of walking, and be sure to bring your camera! Whether you’re visiting the zoo solo or meeting up with newly made friends, you’ll have an amazing time and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our planet’s wildlife.

Visit the Getty

The Getty is a very popular art museum in Los Angeles that showcases a beautiful collection of European and American art, all while providing unrivaled views of the surrounding city. Especially since you’ll be traveling solo, you can check out the several galleries and exhibits at your own pace. You can also join a guided tour for a more immersive experience and to make some friends along the way as well.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to plan ahead and check out Getty’s website for info on the most current exhibitions and events.

Be sure to take advantage of the free admission and explore the beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, which offer spectacular views of LA’s skyline while you’re at it!

Take a Bus Tour of Celebrity Mansions

If you’re a fan of Hollywood and the glitz and glam that comes with it, a guided tour of celebrity homes is a must-do Los Angeles activity for solo travel. You’ll cruise with the top down (in a tour van, not a convertible) through the luxurious neighborhoods of Beverly Hills and Hollywood Hills, stopping by the huge mansions of some of the world’s most famous stars.

If you’re walking down the streets of Hollywood, you’ll be approached by many people asking you to join them on their guided tour. Some of these can be either scams or of lesser quality, to say the least.

To make the most of your tour, be sure to book with one of several reputable tours above, all of which are knowledgeable and entertaining. They’ll share interesting facts and stories about celebrities and their homes, all with the professionalism and care you’d hope for to make your solo trip feel as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap some pics of the Hollywood scenery and the mansions! Pro tips: Try to avoid rush hour traffic, so you can fully enjoy the tour. And remember to be respectful of the privacy of celebrities and their homes. Happy touring!

Visit Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Griffith Park and Observatory is a perfect destination for solo travelers in Los Angeles. The park boasts stunning views of the city, as well as a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. From hiking to the Hollywood Sign to exploring the Griffith Observatory, there’s something for everyone at this iconic LA destination.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to purchase your pass in advance. You can purchase general admission, opt for a private tour, or even join a guided hike to the Griffith Observatory. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the ridiculously beautiful views of LA’s cityscape.

The park is open year-round, but summer months can get a little hot, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you burn easily. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled day, Griffith Park and Observatory is the perfect destination for solo travelers in LA.

Pro tip: To avoid the typical crowds, try to visit the observatory on weekdays or during non-peak hours. And if you’re feeling even more adventurous, take a night hike to the observatory for a unique and unforgettable experience. You truly can’t visit Los Angeles and not stop by the Griffith Observatory!

Explore Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles offers a perfect blend of art, culture, and entertainment, all in one walkable area. This makes it perfect for solo travel, especially if you’re looking for an urban adventure.

There are so many ways to explore DTLA. If you’re a foodie, you can hit up one of the many amazing dining options throughout the area or even take a foodie tour. For architecture lovers, there’s the Union Station, City Hall, LA Central Public Library, and much more for you to see in a guided tour. If you’re more of a history buff, you guessed it, there’s a tour for that too.

Another hit in Downtown LA is the vibrant street art scene. The city is home to some of the best street art murals, including works by internationally renowned artists. You can explore the street art scene on your own or join a guided tour for a more immersive experience.

The list keeps going on and on, but you get the idea: Downtown Los Angeles is filled to the brim with fun things to do that are either cheap, free, or somewhere in between. Either way, they’re all nothing short of amazing, especially when it comes to solo travel.

Check out the LA Brea Tar Pits

The La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles is a fascinating destination for solo travelers interested in science and history. Located in the heart of the city, the tar pits are home to a vast collection of Ice Age fossils, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves.

Explore the exhibits at the onsite museum, which features interactive displays and life-size replicas of extinct animals. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful Hancock Park and enjoy a picnic while marveling at the stunning surroundings.

Just make sure to buy your La Brea Tar Pit ticket in advance .

La Brea Tar Pits is a unique and fascinating destination for solo travelers visiting Los Angeles. With its collection of Ice Age fossils, interactive exhibits, and beautiful surroundings, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your visit and enjoy all that the tar pits have to offer.

Take a Helicopter Tour of Los Angeles

If you’re a solo traveler looking for a truly unique way to explore Los Angeles, consider booking a helicopter tour . With panoramic views of the city’s many iconic landmarks and that sweet SoCal landscape, a helicopter tour is an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for adventurers and sightseers alike.

As a solo traveler, you’ll have the freedom to choose your own itinerary and enjoy the tour at your own pace. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and make lasting memories with potential fellow passengers.

When planning your Los Angeles helicopter tour, there are a few helpful travel tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to book your tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time. Next, dress comfortably and in layers just to be prepared, as the temperature can vary depending on the altitude and time of day.

Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture some picture-perfect bird’s-eye view shots of the city! Lastly, make sure that you choose a reputable tour operator with experienced pilots and a focus on safety. You can check reviews and ratings online to help you make an informed decision.

Here are the best helicopter tours in Los Angeles:

All in all, if you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to explore Los Angeles, a helicopter tour is a must-do activity for any solo traveler.

Explore Local Galleries

If you’re a fan of art and culture, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the city’s incredible galleries. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, classic pieces, or something in between, LA’s art scene has something for everyone.

As a solo traveler, visiting local galleries is also the perfect way to connect with the local community, meet new people, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

There really are so many art galleries in Los Angeles that you can’t visit them all, but some of the most popular options are Art + Practice, Blum & Poe, the Broad, David Kodansky Gallery, LAXART, and Night Gallery. However, you can’t go wrong visiting any of them.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with other visitors or the gallery staff – you might just learn something new and make some new friends along the way!

Soak in the Sun at a Rooftop Pool

Ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and relax by a poolside in paradise? If you’re a solo traveler, heading to one of LA’s rooftop pools is an amazing way to unwind and soak up some nice Cali sun. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious spot to lounge or a lively pool party atmosphere, LA’s rooftop pool scene has something for everyone.

As you can imagine, there are so many options in Los Angeles for you to choose from. However, some of the best options in Los Angeles include West Hollywood EDITION, the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood, and Santa Monica Proper Hotel.

Check if the pool has a day pass or if it’s open to the public, and make sure to arrive early to secure your spot for the best and most relaxing poolside experience.

Vibe out to Live Music in Los Angeles

As a solo traveler, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the vibrant live music scene in Los Angeles . Whether you’re into indie rock, hip hop, or jazz, LA has a wide variety of venues and shows to choose from.

The Troubadour and The Roxy Theatre in West Hollywood are great spots for catching up-and-coming artists, while The Hollywood Bowl offers a great outdoor concert experience. There are also many smaller venues to check out like The Hotel Cafe and The Satellite for intimate performances.

In Closing: Best Things to Do For Your LA Solo Trip

Exploring Los Angeles solo is truly a fun and fulfilling experience, and there are countless main attractions and things to do alone choose from. On top of that, LA offers many other fun activities that are perfect for solo travelers.

For example, you can visit one of the many beaches like Venice Beach, take up surfing lessons, go for a helicopter tour of the city, relax in one of the many coffee shops, spend a few hours walking the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame, and much more.

All in all, Los Angeles is a city that really caters to solo travelers with its endless options for entertainment and exploration. By taking advantage of the city’s countless fun things to do alone and exploring on your own terms, you’ll have the time of your life in the City of Angels.

So go ahead and plan that solo trip to LA, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!

Pierre, founder of 'Wayfare With Pierre', is a travel photographer and digital nomad. He has shared travel insights and enhanced numerous travel platforms with his photography and content. Committed to fostering personal growth and wordly appreciation, Pierre inspires digital nomads and travelers to find deeper fulfillment through their adventures.

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The Solo Trip: Explore at Your Own Pace

By Julie Weed

Solo travel has the power to transform: Think of the memoirs “Eat Pray Love” or “Wild.” But you don’t have to circumnavigate the globe or hike 1,100 miles to see why some people choose to go it alone. The freedom to explore at your own pace, open to connecting with people you meet along the way, can feel as intoxicating as a tropical breeze. But solo travel can be daunting, too, especially when problems arise. And of course, solo travelers need to keep certain safety considerations in mind.

So, are you ready to plan your adventure for one? Here’s how to get the most out of it.

Start off easy

“Keep your first trip simple,” said Carolyn Ray, who runs JourneyWoman , a website for solo travelers, and has visited more than 40 countries on her own. Overcome your trepidation by picking a destination in your own country or at least where people speak your language, she advises. Also, choose accommodations with communal spaces where you can meet others and that are close to the sites you want to see.

Wield the power of one

At even the hottest restaurants, solo diners without reservations can sometimes squeeze in at the bar. And singles can often snag discounted seats at shows and performances by looking for just one ticket close to showtime, says Kat Fleischman, 36, an American public relations professional who has been taking international solo trips since she was 18. She also advises travelers to inquire about single-occupancy discounts at hotels. Travelers on their own can also hop into faster-moving singles lines at amusement parks, filling in spots left empty by groups. Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain , near Los Angeles, and Disney World, in Orlando, Fla., all have a handful of rides with singles lines.

Join group activities

Websites like Meetup and Fun JetSetter can help break the ice with others who share your interests. An internet search can reveal an array of options: Book dinners with locals and other travelers on the website Eatwith . Find fellow nature lovers through local groups like Alaska Outdoors , in Anchorage, which organizes hikes. Find new places to enjoy your favorite activities through sites like Pickleball NSW in New South Wales, Australia . Facebook groups devoted to people living abroad, like Spain’s Expats of Málaga group, can offer local advice and people to meet.

Some hostels and guesthouses also organize outings. You might find yourself going to a kayaking lesson, a singalong, a drag show or a dance club. The hotel chain Selina , for example, offers co-working spaces along with group outings in more than 100 locations in countries such as Peru, Israel and Thailand.

Talk to the locals

If you are eating alone, sit at the bar, where you are more likely to strike up a conversation with those around you. One trick: “Sit with an English-language book to attract other English speakers,” Ms. Ray said. Some dating apps have “friend” settings that solo travelers can use — take the usual precautions, of course, by meeting in a public place and telling others where you’re going and with whom.

Don’t overshare, and use a financial ‘safe word’

Be cautious about sharing personal information, accepting invitations or leaving your belongings with someone you just met. And consider packing a rubber doorstop to add an extra layer of security to your hotel room or Airbnb, and a loud key chain alarm, Ms. Ray said.

If you’re lost, Ms. Fleischman advises, instead of standing on the street to consult your phone, step into a cafe or a store. And rather than looking at your route on your phone as you’re walking, use your earbuds to get directions from mapping apps.

Come up with a term that only you and a chosen few people back home know, so that if you are genuinely in trouble and need money, they’ll know it’s not a criminal impersonating you . Leave an electronic copy of important documents like your passport, health or travel insurance, and itinerary with those people, too. You may also want to share your location with them using a cellphone app.

Leave space for spontaneity

“Stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unusual can lead to some of the most memorable experiences during your solo travels,” Ms. Ray said. Make plans that you can choose to change.

Keep a journal

Solo travel is an opportunity to “foster and cultivate your own sense of empowerment,” said Ms. Ray, and it will help to understand what you’ve learned if you keep a record — written, audio or video — of your goals, setbacks and triumphs.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion can be heady stuff. Solo travel gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

Why Travel Alone?

How to travel alone safely, how to travel alone as a woman, avoiding the single supplement, tips for solo dining.

• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once .

The 13 Best Places to Travel Alone

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification —in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt , use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places , especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps (and How to Avoid Them)

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

What is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel .

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , Exodus Travels , REI Adventures , Adventure Women , and Road Scholar , offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Cunard , and P&O Cruises .

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com .

3 Ways for Solo Travelers to Avoid Single Supplements

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One .) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

How to Meet Other People When You’re Traveling Solo

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL , which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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I am really eager to visit the city and heard about the hostels out there. Any places you recommend for staying? I need a safe and well located place that is near to public transportation. I thought of splitting my trip like such: 7 days in San Francisco and 5 days in LA. I will be arriving and departing from the SFO airport. I want to spend one day at the beach and spend the other days visiting. Any suggestions of the must-see in LA? And any recommendations for solo traveller?

Thank you very much!

Read the TOP QUESTIONS BOX at the right side of this page and get acquainted with our metro area. If you can't see the TQ BOX, here's a shortcut to the content (link and SCROLL DOWN):

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32655-i61-k5063087-L_A_FAQs_Where_to_Stay_and_other_Questions_and_Answers-Los_Angeles_California.html

The link above will give you an overview of the popular neighborhoods for tourists to stay in L.A. There are hostels in many of these. You COULD split your visit into 2 parts, staying in 2 different areas.

As far as how many days in each city, keep in mind that L.A. is very spread out and SF is more compact (and has better public transit) so you might want to put more days in L.A. or, you could take 2 or 3 days on a tour (or by rail) from SF to L.A., stopping at popular places along the coast between these 2 cities.

But first, read about L.A. and then ask SPECIFIC questions.

Happy planning. You have nothing to worry about.

BTW, if you're interested in something to do in the evenings, look at GOLDSTAR.COM which is a discount ticket broker offering all kinds of events. BTW, you must be 21 years old to enter a bar or club in the U.S.

Hostels are known for tours and other activities that bring people together. It is hoped that the OP gets to spend her time with others like herself.

I'm worried about your plan. My daughter is 20 and pretty well traveled, and I'd rather she lose the money by canceling a ticket than travel to two foreign cities alone. Money is nothing over your personal safety and San Francisco and LA will be here when you are able to travel with others. Just the two cents of a mom.

Another Mom here-- I would just ask if you have experience traveling to large cities with your friends?? If this is your very first experience I would do a shorter trip to only one place and then do a lot of research about what to see/do on your own.

I agree that staying at a hostel with others around and with the possibility of them offering some group activities would be better than staying alone in a Motel 6!!

If you look at the statistics LA is fairly safe, but I would have been uncomfortable with my daughters doing this trip alone at age 18. My 20 year olds go to Venice and Hollywood , but not by themselves and only in daylight.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Travel Alone: A Guide to Over 500 Articles about Solo Travel by Solo Travelers

Over the years, several hundred thousands people who travel alone have participated in the Solo Traveler Community in one way or another. They:

• Connect with others in the Solo Travel Society on Facebook
• Share experiences with others by  contributing a destination post .
• Avail themselves of solo travel expertise in over 800 articles .

Most of the blog is relevant for solo travelers of all ages. But there are some that are more relevant to younger solo travelers. Here's a guide to the most popular posts for those in the 20s and 30s who travel solo .

The second group that most read Solo Traveler are 50+. If you land in that category, we have an article on benefits, options, destinations and safety for traveling solo over 50 . It points to you to many more relevant articles as well. 

Below are links to a variety of posts for everyone on everything from inspiration to money management. Enjoy.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Inspiration

All travel starts with inspiration. Whether it's a movie you've seen, a book you've read, or blog posts, such as those below full of recommendations for great destinations, inspiration is where solo travel starts.

• Where to Go? Great Destinations for First-Time Solo Travelers Destinations in North America and other parts of the world. All of them great for first timers.
• Best Budget Destinations: updated every January After reviewing many lists of budget destination recommendations, here is our shortlist of top destinations for solo travelers on a budget for 2020.
• Safe and Easy Hiking Destinations Here are nine safe and easy hiking destinations that I’ve enjoyed. They are all relatively easy hikes and I describe what's special about each briefly.
• Educational Travel: Learning Vacations for Solo Travelers Educational travel is on the rise. Many are planning learning vacations. Here’s how to find the right learning experiences in your dream destination.
• Best Solo Road Trips Looking for breathing space? A bit of freedom? A car and an open road will deliver. Here are the best solo road trips.

Planning a Great Solo Trip

• Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips So you’re planning to travel alone. Here are the keys to great solo travel trip planning plus plenty of convenient resources.
• How to Plan a Road Trip: Route Planning, Scheduling & Budgeting Itching to hit the open road? Here’s how to plan a road trip well from budgeting to scheduling and especially route planning.
• How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal Travel budgeting made easy with 2 practical approaches followed by 8 steps and a free downloadable spreadsheet to create your personal solo travel budget.
• Backpacking Solo: How to Plan an Exhilarating & Safe Budget Trip Backpacking solo is about the most exciting type of travel you can do. Here’s how to plan and prepare for a sustainable trip.

Our Best Solo Travel Tips

For over 10 years now, we've been collecting tips from our own travels as well as from our readers. Members of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook are generous in sharing tips and advice in answer to specific questions from travelers and, sometimes, general questions from us, which we, in turn, share in our posts.

• T he Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It When you travel alone, you travel on your terms. Here are 50 of our best tips, plus links to additional resources to ensure solo travel success.
• Eating Alone is Easy When You Know How Eating alone is one aspect of solo travel that some people really don’t like. Here are casual and elegant dining alone options.
• Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers: The Choice is Yours Given that it will be one of the biggest items in your travel budget, what is the best accommodation for solo travelers? Here are 8 options.
• Stress-Free Solo Travel: Advice from Experienced Travelers Solo travel is many wonderful things. But it can also be challenging and difficult at times. Here are some expert tips for stress-free solo travel.
• How to Travel Alone Without Being Lonely: 10 Tips &12 Posts Worried you’ll be lonely traveling solo? Here’s some great advice on how to travel alone without being lonely and enjoy the social side of solo travel.
• Bare Minimum Packing One of the most popular posts on the site. Packing lists are the key to packing light. Most people have trouble with this but, in my opinion, it's an important skill. Here's how to do it.
• Planning and Packing Tips for Checked Baggage Checked baggage is a completely different game than carry-on – and it’s about more than weight restriction. Here are tips to help you avoid problems.
• How to Get Through an Airport by Yourself Airports can be busy, confusing places. Here are some tips to help you get through security and to your gate fast.

Save Money For and As You Travel Solo

• How to Make Solo Travel Affordable, Cheap and Even Free Cheap solo travel tips to help you save on tours, accommodation, and experiences. It’s all about making solo travel affordable.
• How to Save Money for Travel: Smart Advice. Seven Steps. No wagging fingers here. Just smart advice on how to save for travel – for this trip and all the ones to come.
• Feeling the Pinch? Solo Travelers Save Money at The Airport Avoid blowing your budget before getting off the ground with these tips to help you save money at the airport.
• How to Save Money on Hotels and Other Travel Accommodation Here are our top tips to help you save money on hotels and other types of travel accommodation, whether luxury or budget, as you travel solo.
• Solo Travel London on a Budget: Top Tips for Free and Cheap London tips for free, cheap, and unique things to do when you travel solo. Where to stay, where to eat, how to use the Tube, and enjoy London on a budget.
• No Single Supplement: How to Find Trips without a Solo Penalty Single supplement waived – that’s what we're looking for. After all, who wants to pay for someone else when you’re traveling alone.
• Solo Travel: How to Save on Shoulder Season Travel You can always save a bit here and a bit there on travel. But you can really SAVE on shoulder season travel. Here are our top tips.
• VPN for Travel: What, Why and an Easy Setup Guide Protect your money, your identity, and your data as you travel. We explain what a VPN is, why you need it, show you how to set it up quickly and easily, and even give you a discount code so you can save!

And of course, don't forget The Destinations Category on this site. This is where you'll find posts on over 100 countries. Most have been written by readers. And use our Trip Planning Resources page too.

Travel Alone Safely

Safety is a significant concern for many solo travelers. This is why we have invested a lot of time writing on the topic. Here are our most popular posts on solo travel safety.

• Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Proven Tips to Keep You Safe Is solo travel safe? Yes, if you know how. Here are 50+ updated solo travel safety tips for planning and enjoying a great trip alone.
• Solo Female Travel Safety: Answering a Stranger’s Question-Or Not The Solo Travel Society weighs in on solo female travel safety and what to do when asked the question, “Are you by yourself?”
• Night Safety for Solo Travelers: 17 Tips Going out at night offers unique ways of experiencing your destination but it does require some special attention for safety. Here are 17 tips to keep you safe.
• Going Alone? Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers Here’s what solo travelers should look for in travel insurance including the one benefit that’s most important for those of us who travel alone.
• Solo Travel Confidence: How to be Strong, Capable and Safe. This post was inspired by a comment made by a reader: “safety is an inside job” she said. Yes, confidence is a traveler's armor. Here's how to appear confident even when you're not.

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The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

Travelling Without a Passport

10 Things to Know About Travelling in the USA Alone

Travelling alone is a great way to build self-confidence and be wholly immersed in your surroundings, but most importantly, it gives you the freedom to follow the sights and sounds that call your name. There’s no better place, then, to embrace this freedom than in “the land of the free” itself: the United States of America. 

The USA is a huge country that encompasses a wide range of lifestyles and landscapes within its borders, and you’ll want to experience it all –from the friendly hospitality of the south and the fast-paced excitement of the northeast to the laidback creativity of the west. If you’re looking to explore this vastly diverse country on what is sure to be the solo trip of a lifetime, here are some things to keep in mind.

• Where to go
• Accommodations
• Travel insurance
• National parks
• Talking to locals
• Travel documents

Travel to: the USA

1. There’s a lot to explore

From the rocky coastlines of the East Coast to the sandy beaches of the West Coast and everything in between, there is a lot worth seeing in the United States. You likely won’t be able to hit everything you want to see in one trip. 

Even though travelling solo means less negotiation with travel companions, the sheer size of the US may feel daunting. It’s better to choose one region to thoroughly explore on your trip, and plan your itinerary that way. 

If you’re having a tough time deciding where to go, here are some of the top destinations for solo travellers:

• Portland, Oregon
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Sedona, Arizona
• San Francisco, California
• Washington, D.C.
• New York City
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Maui, Hawaii
• New Orleans, Lousiana

2. Know how to get around

The USA is well-connected through an excellent highway infrastructure, which is why the road trip is such a great American tradition. You’ll need to be at least 25 years of age to rent a car here, but since you’ll be travelling alone, using bus services like Greyhound or Megabus will be more eco-friendly ways to speed down America’s Interstate highways. 

If you want to cover a lot of ground and minimise your travel time, domestic flights are your best bet. A few of the country’s most popular budget airlines include JetBlue, Southwest, and Spirit Airlines.

Hopping on an Amtrak train is also an option for intercity travel. You’ll find different geography, climates, and time zones in different regions, and even laws can differ from state to state. State laws don’t always match with federal regulations, so make sure you are aware of the laws surrounding drug use, personal freedoms, and arms within the states you’re travelling.

3. Leave room in your budget

When travelling to the US, there are a couple of reasons to leave room in your budget. If you’re arriving from outside of North America, the chances are that America’s tipping culture will be new to you. While it’s not officially required by law, tipping in the US is needed to help service workers make a living wage. 

A 15-20% tip is customary for good service, and you’ll need to add that amount to the total on the bill. When purchasing goods, the prices listed exclude sales tax, which is calculated at checkout. Credit cards are most commonly used, so it won’t be necessary to carry around large amounts of cash.

However, you might want to keep a few quarters around, as those can come in handy for parking meters, laundromats, and toll roads that haven’t yet caught up with the technology.

See Also: How to Travel Solo Without Ever Feeling Lonely

4. Private accommodations are preferred

If you’ve travelled in Europe, you’ll know that hostels are a solo traveller’s best friend for affordable lodging and opportunities to meet fellow travellers. While there are some hostels to be found, shared accommodations like hostels are not as prevalent in the US as they are in Europe, as Americans tend to prefer private accommodations. 

Luckily, there are more affordable options on property-sharing platforms, along with bed and breakfasts, motels, and inns. The affordability of these options might affect where you choose to go on your itinerary.

5. Be sure to buy insurance

Travel insurance is always a good idea, but when you’re travelling to the US, it becomes an essential one. While also covering trip cancellations and baggage loss, it ensures that any medical costs you may incur won’t cost you. 

Healthcare services in America are some of the most expensive in the world, and their system does not cover visitors to the country. If you’re travelling solo, it can be more important than ever to have that peace of mind. Be sure also to take note of local emergency service numbers, and keep friends and family apprised of your itinerary and updated on any changes.

6. Visit America’s national parks

You would be remiss if you didn’t visit any of America’s stunning national parks on your solo trip. The American national park system is a big part of their cultural landscape, and lots of work goes into their upkeep and preservation. 

The country has over 60 national parks, all of which offer spectacular sights, and refuge from the hustle and bustle of the country’s most populated cities. Like the country they inhabit, many of the parks are enormous and navigating them can be overwhelming, so you’ll need to plan your visit to any of them thoroughly.  

Some of the most popular US national parks are Yellowstone , with its colourful hot springs and Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon with its impressive mesas and gorges, and Joshua Tree with its distinct desert landscape. When you visit, do your part for conservation efforts and be mindful of your impact on these beautiful parks.

7. Portions of food will be big 

Trying local cuisine is always one of the most enjoyable ways to experience a new destination. The US is home to some excellent local cuisine. 

Travelling to this country means you may get the opportunity to sample delicious barbecue in the South, Creole classics in Louisiana, fresh poke bowls in Hawaii, and endless metropolitan variations of crowd favourites like pizza and hot dogs. In cities like New York and Los Angeles, you’ll also find some of the most diverse restaurant scenes in the world. 

When dining out in America, you might find that the portion sizes are larger than what you’re used to. If there’s anything leftover on your plate at the end of your meal, it’s common to ask for it to be packed up, which can make for a yummy snack while you’re out exploring. 

Don’t forget the drinks while you’re focusing on the food! Wash your meals down with delicious coffee, local brews and innovative cocktails.

8. Americans are friendly

Many visitors remark at how friendly Americans are, and it’s true – they’re incredibly outgoing and hospitable, and mostly happy to lend a hand. It shouldn’t be hard to find someone willing to give you directions or strike up a conversation. 

While they are generally friendly and helpful to visitors, it’s best to stay away from bringing overly stereotyped notions of America to the conversation. You may want to steer clear of politics too, which isn’t always a topic Americans feel comfortable discussing too openly with foreigners in casual conversation. 

Many will enjoy exchanging travel stories with you, but as always while travelling alone, be careful not to divulge any sensitive information with strangers.

See Also: We Rank the Best Places to Travel in the USA on a Budget

9. Double-check your travel documents

When entering the USA for a short visit, a visa is often not required depending on your country of origin. However, you will need an ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization, to enter the country. 

Check to see the requirements for entry into the USA from the country you’re departing from, and make sure all your paperwork and documentation is up-to-date to avoid snags in your travel plans or getting denied entry.

10. America is diverse

The USA calls itself a melting pot, and it is indeed. Many cultures blend within this vast country. While we feel like we know all about it from how it’s represented in films and other media, there is much more to the country than meets the eye. All of which makes it an incredibly exciting place to discover.

If you’re hoping to travel to the United States down the road, many operators on TourRadar now offer flexible booking options for your peace of mind. So if you book now but your travel plans change, you’ll receive a credit that can be used towards a future tour. Head over to TourRadar  to find inspiration for your solo USA adventure!

Melanie Cheng

Melanie is a Toronto-based writer and editor who loves experiencing new things in new places. In between adventures, you can find her with her nose in a book, re-watching episodes of Friends, or on the lookout for her next favourite brunch spot.

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Going it alone: 10 of the best trips for solo travel

O nce the preserve of singletons and gap-year students, solo travel has recently taken on a shiny new look. Rather than a function of necessity or compromise, holidaying alone has become the ultimate indulgence in 2024: a rare chance in this ultra-demanding world to put one’s own needs and priorities first.

"Travelling solo is a liberating experience. It offers the chance to do what and go where you want, on your own terms," says Jonathan Frankham of World Nomads . "It also makes you more likely to branch out, forge deeper connections with others and discover more about yourself."

In short, people are now travelling solo not because they have to – but because they want to. Emboldened with a ‘now or never’ attitude post-pandemic and more confident than ever about spending time in solitude, travellers are busy booking their dream trips, regardless of life stage or relationship status. Many tour operators have noticed the trend: Scott Dunn reported a 30 per cent increase in solo bookings in 2023, while Black Tomato saw them almost double. In response to demand, many operators have launched solo travel collections or solo-specific departure dates, while others are waiving pricey single supplements.

The range of solo travel experiences on offer has broadened, too. You can tick off bucket list trips like hiking the Camino de Santiago or cruising to Antarctica that loved ones in your life might be reluctant to commit to – but also book self-care wellness breaks or enriching learning holidays. Some trips, such as those from Discover the World , let you dial up or down the amount of time you spend in a group environment, so you get both alone time and the reassuring safely blanket that comes with being around others.

A reassuring safe space can be especially appealing to solo female travellers , of which there are now more than ever. According to Student Universe 84 per cent of polled Gen Z women are interested in solo travel, while Craft Travel reports a 350 per cent increase in women-based adventure travel compared to last year. Founder of the latter, Julia Carter, says: "Women who we would have more often seen putting off ‘adventurous’ destinations until they had a partner or their partner’s schedule allowed are no longer holding back."

10 solo trips to try

1. polar bears in canada.

In response to a noticeable uptick in solo bookings, Discover the World has just launched a new solo travel collection with dedicated singles departure dates – including to New Zealand and Iceland. Some trips are catered specifically to female travellers, including a special women-only departure of the Polar Bear Adventure in October 2024. There will be a female expedition leader at the helm when you journey on special ‘polar rovers’ to see the snow-white giants in the Churchill wilds, and you’ll have the chance to meet local indigenous women and hear about their lives on the arctic tundra too.

Five days from £7,593, discover-the-world.com

 2. Pilates in Morocco

For special interest breaks – whether that’s painting , cookery or learning a language – Flavours Holidays ticks the boxes for solo travellers, as it never charges a single supplement. The upcoming group Pilates Morocco Retreat will give you a week in a villa overlooking the Atlas mountains, with daily pilates classes and an optional hike into the sun-baked landscapes. Explore the bustling Marrakech souks, wander through the serene Majorelle Garden or tuck into fragrant tagines, either with new friends or when exploring on your own.

Seven days from £2,199, flavoursholidays.co.uk

3. Walking in Spain

Love nothing more than a good yomp in the great outdoors? More than half of Ramble Worldwide travellers are solo hikers, so you’ll be in good company. The moderately difficult Walking from San Telmo itinerary on Mallorca doesn’t have a single supplement and takes in raw mountain and coastal trails – including a challenging climb on the Archduke’s Trail around the hills of S’Arraco (the views are worth the thigh-burn). You’ll also have time to visit uninhabited island Dragonera, see hillside village Valldemossa and unwind by the pool in the spring or autumn sunshine (departure dates include April, May, September and October 2024).

Seven days from £1,285, ramblersholidays.co.uk

4. Safari in Kenya

A safari is a proper bucketlist trip – but one that can feel challenging to tackle all on your own. Dedicated solo holiday specialist Friendship Travel brings together world-class wildlife with beachside downtime in a group hols where there’s always a host on hand if you need them. The Kenya Safari and Beach itinerary kicks off on the sands at Diani Beach on the Indian Ocean before heading into the bush for stays at two different safari camps – one with views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the other in the heart of a 10,000-acre private game sanctuary. Then there’s more lazy lounger time again before you head home.

Seven nights from £2,550, friendshiptravel.com

5. Getting fit in St Lucia

Wellness breaks are an understandably popular pick among solo travellers; all that alone time gives you the opportunity to overhaul your eating regime, set new fitness goals or undergo a major health reset. All-inclusive wellbeing resort BodyHoliday in St Lucia has a themed ‘September solos’ month where the usual single supplement is waived and the extensive rota of fitness classes and activities is supplemented by group hosted dinners. You also get a spa treatment included on every day of your stay.

Seven nights from £3,000, scottdunn.com

6. Culture in Oman

Sustainably minded YellowWood Adventures focuses on cultural holidays that really get under the skin of a unique destination – and 70 per cent of travellers on their trips are solos. The Undiscovered Oman trip lets you get stuck into the local lifestyle and scenery, meeting Bedouins, sailing around the protected Daymaniyat Islands and wild camping in the powdery Sugar Dunes desert by the Gulf of Oman. The company also supports charity endeavours on the ground in their destinations and compensates for emissions by planting 15 trees per traveller through WeForest.

Nine days from £2,799, yellowwoodadventures.com

7. Female empowerment in Turkey

With so many solo female travellers knocking on their door – around a third of all their bookings – Intrepid Travel decided it was time to relaunch their portfolio of female-only trips, designed to immerse you in the cultural spaces of local women. On a new Turkey Women’s Expedition, you’ll visit a mother and daughter in their Istanbul home to sample börek, hike the Soganli Valley and visit a social enterprise that supports low-income women through handicrafts.

12 days from £2,315, intrepidtravel.com

8. Cruising in Peru

Cruising can be perfect for solo travellers, as travel by ship provides the comforts of group travel with the option to be reclusive when you fancy. Luxe small-ship line Aqua Expeditions has announced that it’s waiving solo supplements (usually 25% extra) on select cruises in 2024 and 2025, including voyages on the Aria Amazon in January, February and September. Sailing down the jungle-cloaked Peruvian Amazon on the intimate ship, you’ll get the inside track from experienced naturalist guides on the rich marine and land life. Off-boat expeditions let you see it all up close; piranha fishing, anyone?

Seven nights from £6,030, aquaexpeditions.com

9. Sunshine in Vietnam

Get to know one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries and soak up the tropical sunshine with a multi-award winning specialist in the solo travel sphere, Just You. Running over nearly two weeks to give you the full country immersion, the Discover Vietnam trip includes a sightseeing tour in Hanoi, an overnight cruise in Halong Bay and a visit the UNESCO-protected old town of Hoi An, along with plenty of other stops. A good pick if you want to be in a social group dynamic for your entire trip.

From £3,699, justyou.co.uk

10. Remote adventure in Togo & Benin

Even if you normally travel with a partner or family, a solo expedition can suit when you want to experience somewhere more niche on your wish list. Wild Frontiers does those kind of unique destinations – everywhere from Kyrgyzstan to Honduras – like a pro and perhaps unsurprisingly 70% of their customer base is solo travellers. A Togo & Benin Voodoo Explorer trip delves deep into the rich cultures of West Africa, exploring the UNESCO Royal Palace of Abomey, boat-riding through the continent’s largest stilt village and discovering haunting Ouidah, spiritual home of voodoo.

14 days from £3,495, wildfrontierstravel.com

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Los Angeles Sparks at Las Vegas Aces FREE stream: How to watch WNBA today

• Updated: May. 18, 2024, 9:42 a.m. |
• Published: May. 18, 2024, 9:00 a.m.

Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) during a WNBA basketball game, Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in Las Vegas. The two-time defending champions host the Los Angeles Sparks this afternoon. (AP Photo/Ian Maule) AP

• Joey Morona, cleveland.com

Los Angeles Sparks high-profile rookies Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson have a tall task ahead of them this afternoon, traveling to Las Vegas to face the two-time defending WNBA champion Aces in just their second professional game. The matchup will be broadcast nationally on ABC; tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.

If you’ve cut the cord, the game is available to watch for free on several streaming services, including Fubo and DirecTV Stream . Both platforms offer more than 90 live TV channels. You can also try Sling TV , which offers promotional pricing for new customers.

After dominating the league with a 34-6 record en route to their second straight title last season, the Aces picked up where they left off on Tuesday, defeating the Phoenix Mercury in the season opener. The team is led by a big three that includes two-time MVP A’ja Wilson and sharpshooting guards Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young.

The Sparks are looking for a turnaround after three straight losing seasons. Brink, named defensive player of the year her senior season at Stanford, had an impressive debut on Wednesday, scoring 11 points and blocking two shots in a loss to Atlanta. Fellow rookie Jackson, the No. 4 overall pick from Tennessee, chipped in with 7 points.

Here’s more details about the game and how you can watch:

Who: Los Angeles Sparks (0-1) vs. Las Vegas Aces (1-0)

When: Saturday, May 18, 2024

Time: 3 p.m. Eastern

Where: Michelob Ultra Arena | Las Vegas, NV

Channel: ABC

Best streaming options: Fubo , DirecTV Stream , Sling TV

Here’s more on today’s game from the Associated Press:

Las Vegas Aces hosts the Los Angeles Sparks after A’ja Wilson scored 30 points in the Las Vegas Aces’ 89-80 victory against the Phoenix Mercury.

Las Vegas finished 19-1 at home and 18-2 in Western Conference games during the 2023-24 season. The Aces averaged 92.8 points per game last season, 38.5 in the paint, 17.0 off of turnovers and 12.8 on fast breaks.

Los Angeles went 17-23 overall and 9-11 in Western Conference action during the 2023-24 season. The Sparks averaged 8.5 steals, 2.9 blocks and 12.5 turnovers per game last season.

Injuries: Aces: None listed.

Sparks: Julie Allemand: out for season (ankle), Azura Stevens: out (arm).

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U.S. intelligence suggests American who vanished in Syria in 2017 has died, daughter says she was told

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U.S. officials have developed specific and highly credible intelligence suggesting that an American citizen who disappeared seven years ago while traveling in Syria has died, the man’s daughter said Saturday.

Maryam Kamalmaz said in an interview that during a meeting in Washington this month with eight senior American officials she was presented with detailed intelligence about the presumed death of her father, Majd, a psychotherapist from Texas.

The officials told her that on a scale of one to 10, their confidence level about her father’s death was a “high nine.” She said she asked whether other detained Americans had ever been successfully recovered in the face of such credible information, and was told no.

“What more do I need? That was a lot of high-level officials that we needed to confirm to us that he’s really gone. There was no way to beat around the bush,” Maryam Kamalmaz said.

World & Nation

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The Biden administration has had notable success in the last couple of years in bringing home Americans who are wrongfully detained by foreign governments

Jan. 26, 2024

She said officials told her they believe the death occurred years ago, early in her father’s captivity. In 2020, she said, officials told the family that they had reason to believe that he has died of heart failure in 2017, but the family held out hope and U.S. officials continued their pursuit.

But, she said, “Not until this meeting did they really confirm to us how credible the information is and the different levels of [verification] it had to go through.”

She did not describe the intelligence she learned.

Spokespeople for the White House and the FBI, which investigates abductions in foreign countries, did not immediately return messages seeking comment Saturday.

Majd Kamalmaz disappeared in February 2017 at the age of 59 while traveling in Syria to visit an elderly family member. The FBI has said he was stopped at a Syrian government checkpoint in a suburb of Damascus and had not been heard from since.

Kamalmaz is one of multiple Americans who have disappeared in Syria , including the journalist Austin Tice , who went missing in 2012 at a checkpoint in a contested area west of Damascus. Syria has publicly denied holding Americans in captivity.

In 2020, in the final months of the Trump administration, senior officials visited Damascus for a high-level meeting aimed at negotiating release of the Americans. But the meeting proved unfruitful, with the Syrians not providing any proof-of-life information and making demands that U.S. officials deemed unreasonable. U.S. officials have said they are continuing to try to bring home Tice.

The New York Times first reported on the presumed death of Majd Kamalmaz.

Tucker writes for the Associated Press.

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Home Explore France Official Tourism Board Website

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Five top tips when travelling around France on your own

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 21 March 2024, updated on 13 May 2024

What a fantastic feeling you get when travelling alone! Setting off on an adventure with your backpack, and just going with the flow, embracing the moment. France is one of the best destinations in the world for travelling alone, as there are so many incredible places to explore.

Be well prepared for your trip

Paris and its typical Haussmann style architecture, the breathtaking scenery of the mountains, the sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast, the Mediterranean coves with turquoise-blue waters and authentic French villages. France is literally overflowing with wonderful places to explore! To make sure you’re well prepared for your trip alone, the first thing to do is to make a list of the unmissable places depending on what you fancy seeing and doing. As for the practical side of things, remember to make photocopies of your identity documents just in case you lose them, and above-all, make the most of this unforgettable trip that appeals to travellers from all over the globe !

Choose shared, welcoming accommodation

Choosing to travel alone means you are likely to be keen on meeting new people! One of the best ways to meet other people is to choose shared accommodation that is popular with other travellers. If you are backpacking, opt for a youth hostel where you can choose between a shared dormitory or a private room, and above-all, talk to other travellers in the communal areas, listen to stories about their travels and get some great recommendations. To find a youth hostel in a specific town, check out the website for the Ligue Française des Auberges de jeunesse or Hi ! France . Another great option is to book a room at a local’s house, or try out the couchsurfing service for free homestays on a person’s sofa or in their spare bedroom.

Take part in tours and activities as a group!

Besides the accommodation, France is a country with so many activities on offer, both cultural and sporty. To find out about guided tours and unveil the historic secrets of the town you are visiting, go to the website Visit France where you’ll find all the available tours with a qualified guide for the whole of France. For sporty travellers, you’ll find group surfing lessons on the beach, skiing lessons in winter or canyoning outings that are all ideal ways to share experiences with like-minded people.

Chat to the locals to find out more about the area

Today, it’s a piece of cake to find out about where to go and the places that are absolutely not to be missed when you’re travelling alone. But there’s nothing better than listening to the locals talk about their homeland. So to really explore all the nooks and crannies of a place you are visiting, ask for advice from the Tourist Offices and the Greeters (local people who offer to take visitors on free guided tours). You might just stumble across a little-known craftsperson who will explain their profession to you, take part in a tasting of a rare local product, or enjoy a moment out on the terrace of a charming, hidden little café. Whatever the experience, you’ll appreciate the opportunities you’ll get to chat to the people you meet.

Learn to enjoy your own company

There’s nothing more French than just sipping a cup of coffee out on the terrace in front of a bistro, reading the paper and watching the world go by. The whole world is envious of this easy-going lifestyle, and this is your chance to embrace your French experience! If you are someone who tends to get bored easily, stop off at a book shop. There are plenty of old book shops in Paris , especially in the Latin Quarter, and we recommend visiting them just to soak in the atmosphere in these timeless places. And how about taking your quest to self-discovery even further, with some meditation? You'll find details of meditation sessions and workshops all over France on the website meditationfrance.com . It’s over to you!

Further reading : 6 cocons pour prendre soin de soi et de la nature cet automne 8 réflexes pour voyager durable en France

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In 2016, spurred by a series of environmentally conscious awakenings, Gaëlle immersed herself in journalism to further explore this question.

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Assassin's Creed Shadows releases November 15th

Assassin's Creed Shadows

Coming November 15 on Xbox Series X|S & PlayStation®5, Ubisoft+, Amazon Luna, Macs with Apple Silicon via the Mac App Store, as well as Windows PC through the Ubisoft Store and the Epic Games Store.

Play 3 days early by pre-ordering any Premium Edition.

A new creed rises

Live the intertwined stories of Naoe, an adept shinobi Assassin from Iga Province, and Yasuke, the powerful African samurai of historical legend. Against the backdrop of the turbulent late Sengoku period, this remarkable duo will discover their common destiny as they usher in a new era for Japan.

Explore feudal Japan

Discover the captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and pastoral landscapes. Adventure through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments.

Become a shinobi assassin

As the quick-witted and agile Naoe, use noise, light, and shadows to evade detection as enemies respond to their changing surroundings. Distract guards using kunai, shuriken, and smoke bombs, infiltrate enemy bases with your grappling hook and parkour skills, and assassinate your targets with the hidden blade.

Become a legendary samurai

As the charismatic samurai Yasuke, strike your foes with brutal precision and power. Use his combat-oriented skills to attack, block, parry, and defeat your enemies. Master the vast arsenal of weapons at your disposal – featuring katana, kanabo, bows, naginata, and more – to free Japan from its oppressors.

Information is your weapon

Travel the world, explore, and scout your surroundings to gather vital intel. Build your network of spies to be your eyes and ears across locations to unveil new areas and hunt down your next target. Along the way, recruit several allies with highly specialized skills and abilities to help accomplish your missions.

Play it your way

You decide whether to play as a shinobi or samurai. Master complementary playstyles of two fully realized protagonists, approach quests with whichever character you prefer, as each possesses their own respective progression, stats, skills, and gear.

Trained as a shinobi assassin from Iga Province, Naoe sets out to travel through Japan on a quest for revenge to fulfil an impossible promise.

After completing his training to become a skilled samurai, Yasuke finds a new purpose confronting the demons of his past.

Pre-order now to get a bonus quest

Pre-order now any edition to receive the bonus quest, Thrown to the Dogs, available Day 1. Help a loyal dog avenge his late master.

Discover the Gold & Ultimate Editions!

Explore new lands and unravel new mysteries with the Season Pass, available in both the Gold and Ultimate Editions. Get even more with the Ultimate Edition, which includes additional digital content. Play 3 days early by pre-ordering the Gold or the Ultimate Editions!

Discover Assassin’s Creed Shadows Collector’s Edition

Get the most premium offer for Assassin’s Creed Shadows with the Collector’s Edition, now available for pre-order in limited quantities. Play 3 days early, get an Ultimate Edition copy of the game with all the digital bonus content included, and enjoy unique physical items including a dual character statue.

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Memorial Day weekend 2024 travel will be busiest at these times: How to avoid traffic jams

If you’re traveling for Memorial Day weekend , be prepared to run into some crowds. The next holiday weekend – taking place May 25 to 27 – is slated to see a record-breaking number of travelers, according to AAA. 

A projected 43.8 million Americans are expected to pack their bags for trips over 50 miles or more over the holiday weekend – a 4% increase from last year and close to 2005’s previous record of 44 million. 

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a press release. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Both roads and airports will be extremely busy, with a historic number of roadtrippers since AAA began tracking data in 2000. That’s 38.4 million drivers, up 4% from last year. 

A predicted 3.51 million airline passengers are expected to hit the skies over the holiday weekend, a 4.8% increase from 2023. This will make for the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, AAA said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s everything you need to know about traffic if you’re hoping for a Memorial Day weekend getaway.

Summer is just around the corner. Here's everything you need to know for your summertime trip.

What are the most popular destinations for Memorial Day weekend travel?

Most popular domestic destinations:

• Las Vegas, 
• Anaheim/Los Angeles

Most popular international destinations:

• Vancouver, Canada

What are the best times to drive for Memorial Day weekend? 

To avoid the worst traffic, drivers leaving for their long weekend trip on Thursday, May 23, and Friday, May 24, should hit the road before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Thursday and 8 p.m. Friday. 

Travelers driving on Saturday, May 25, who leave before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m., will be able to avoid the worst traffic jams. On Sunday, drivers should head out before 1 p.m. to avoid the worst congestion. 

Travelers returning home on Monday, May 27, should embark after 7 p.m. if they want to dodge peak traffic. 

What are the worst times to drive by car for Memorial Day weekend?

Travelers should expect the worst traffic on Thursday between noon and 6 p.m. 

Friday between noon and 7 p.m. since they’ll encounter commuter congestion as well. 

Over the weekend, peak traffic is anticipated to be between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday. 

On Memorial Day, drivers heading back home can expect peak traffic between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., aka peak rush hour time.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

Travelers who are going through major metropolitan areas should unfortunately expect travel times to be up to 90% longer than usual, according to Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” Pishue said in a statement. 

• Worst route: Atlanta to Savannah via I-16 E
• Worst day: Saturday, May 25
• Worst time: 4:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 5 hours, 31 minutes
• 54% increased travel time
• Worst route: Manchester to Boston via I-93 S
• Worst day: Sunday, May 26
• Worst time: 8:45 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 48 minutes
• 50% increased travel time 
• Worst route: Milwaukee to Chicago via I-94 E 
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 25 minutes
• 27% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 
• Worst time: 4:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 24 minutes
• 56% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: LA to Bakersfield via I-5 N 
• Worst day: Thursday, May 23
• Worst time: 6:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
• 84% increased travel time
• Worst route: New York to Albany via I-87N 
• Worst time: 11:45 a.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 37 minutes

Philadelphia

• Worst route: Philadelphia to Baltimore/DC 
• Worst day: Friday, May 24
• Worst time: 7:30 a.m.
• 64% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route:  San Francisco to Napa via I-80 E
• Worst time: 11 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 34 minutes

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Washington, DC to Baltimore via Balt/Wash Pkwy N 
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 21 minutes
• 72% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .