I've traveled solo to all 50 states. Here are the places I'd recommend to first-time solo travelers.

I've been a solo traveler for the past 10 years. Emily Hart

• Over the past 10 years, I've traveled to all 50 US states and nearly every US national park.
• Although there's no wrong way to travel, some locations are better than others for a solo getaway.

Over the last decade, I've traveled solo to nearly every US national park and — as of last year — all 50 US states.

I'm often asked which states, cities, or general areas are "best" for those new to solo travel.

Although I believe there's no wrong way to solo travel, some locations lend themselves better to a solo getaway than others.

I like to return to smaller, budget-friendly cities that are easy to navigate and offer various outdoor activities, museums, and great food and drink options.

Here are the locations I'd recommend to first-time solo travelers.