12 solo leisure ideas every woman should try at least once
Spending time by yourself doesn’t have to feel awkward—in fact, it might be the most refreshing gift you can give yourself.
Spending time alone doesn’t have to mean being lonely. In fact, carving out solo moments can be one of the most rewarding ways to recharge, grow, and enjoy life. Women often juggle multiple responsibilities, and time for themselves ends up last on the list. Choosing to enjoy activities alone creates room to breathe and reconnect with personal interests without guilt.
Research shows that solitude has measurable benefits. People who voluntarily spend time alone often report higher levels of creativity and personal well-being. The key is choosing activities that feel fulfilling instead of isolating. With that in mind, here are twelve solo leisure ideas every woman should try at least once.
Plan a Staycation in Your City
You don’t need to fly across the country to feel like you’ve escaped your routine. Booking a staycation, whether it’s in a boutique hotel, a cozy Airbnb, or even a local resort, can give you that same fresh perspective. A change of scenery breaks up the monotony and reminds you that leisure doesn’t always require long travel days. Exploring your own city like a tourist is a fun way to notice details you usually miss.
You can create a theme for your staycation, like a food tour of local spots or a museum crawl, and enjoy the freedom of setting your own itinerary. The beauty is you return home refreshed, without the exhaustion of airports and long drives.
Take Yourself on a Solo Dinner Date
Dining out alone is more than just eating; it’s about confidence and comfort in your own skin. Many women avoid it because they feel others might judge them, but the truth is, most people are too focused on their own meals to notice. Sitting down at a nice restaurant, ordering your favorite dish, and savoring each bite without small talk can feel incredibly liberating. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy food for the experience, not just fuel.
Studies show that people who practice “mindful eating” report better digestion and greater satisfaction from meals. Eating alone makes this easier because you’re not distracted by conversation or phones. Try bringing a book, or simply enjoy people-watching while you dine. By the end of the meal, you’ll realize that this solo date isn’t awkward—it’s empowering.
Go to the Movies Alone
Catching a film solo might sound intimidating at first, but it’s one of the easiest ways to dip your toes into enjoying alone time. You get to pick the genre, sit wherever you like, and fully immerse yourself in the story. No need to compromise on action versus romance, or share your popcorn. Once the lights dim, no one is paying attention to who came with whom.
Hollywood Reporter reported that nearly 200 million Americans attended the movies in 2023. Many of them, especially in urban areas, went alone. Solo moviegoers often say they enjoy the immersive experience more because there’s no pressure to analyze the film in real time. If you’ve never tried it, start with a matinee or a movie you’ve been excited to see—you may discover it becomes a favorite ritual.
Spend a Day at the Spa
A spa day might seem indulgent, but it has proven health benefits. Treatments like massages lower cortisol levels, reduce muscle tension, and improve sleep. Spending an afternoon soaking in a steam room or getting a facial gives your body and mind a full reset. And when you go alone, you don’t feel the need to chat or coordinate schedules; you’re free to relax.
According to the research, the spa industry generated over $95 billion in revenue in 2021, with women making up the majority of visitors. Beyond luxury, the spa has become an essential form of stress relief. Think of it as investing in your long-term well-being. Booking a solo spa day is less about pampering and more about showing yourself the same care you give others.
Go on a Solo Hike or Nature Walk
Walking alone in nature provides a kind of clarity that you can’t find in noisy environments. The absence of constant chatter lets you tune into the sounds of birds, water, or simply your own breathing. Solo hiking also gives you the chance to set your own pace—whether you want to push yourself or take it slow. It’s both exercise and therapy rolled into one.
A study in Behavioral Science reports that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature improves mental health and well-being. Solo walks can be meditative, helping you process thoughts and release stress. If you’re hesitant, start with local parks or well-traveled trails. With time, you’ll find that hiking alone isn’t about isolation—it’s about feeling deeply connected to yourself and the environment.
Try a Solo Road Trip
Few things compare to the freedom of the open road with no one else in the passenger seat. You choose the music, the stops, and the pace. Road trips alone are opportunities for reflection, discovery, and spontaneity. You might stumble on a hidden coffee shop, a roadside attraction, or a breathtaking view—and linger as long as you like.
According to The Vacationeer, 85% of Americans intended to take a road trip in 2024, and a growing number of travelers are doing them solo. It’s not just about reaching a destination, it’s about enjoying the journey. Driving alone can sharpen your problem-solving skills and boost your confidence. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable ways to travel and recharge.
Start a Creative Hobby
Creative outlets give your brain a chance to play. Whether it’s painting, writing, knitting, or photography, the act of creating something with your own hands is deeply rewarding. Alone, you can experiment without fear of judgment, and the process itself becomes more important than the outcome.
Engaging in creative activities can boost mood and overall well-being for days afterward. Studies showed that people who made time for creativity reported more enthusiasm and “flourishing” in their lives. By starting a solo creative hobby, you give yourself a steady source of joy and personal growth.
Take a Solo Fitness Class
Walking into a fitness class alone can be intimidating, but it often leads to the biggest confidence boost. Without a friend by your side, you’re less distracted and more focused on your own progress. Whether it’s yoga, boxing, or Zumba, solo classes help you challenge yourself in new ways.
The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week; however, very few American adults meet this goal. Joining a class can help you stay consistent, and going solo ensures the time is fully yours. It also makes it easier to meet new people since you’re more approachable without a companion.
Book a Solo Vacation
Traveling alone may feel daunting, but it’s an experience that changes how you see yourself. You’re in charge of every choice, what to eat, where to go, and how long to stay. Solo travel helps you build independence, adaptability, and courage. You return not just with souvenirs but with a stronger sense of self.
Many cited increased self-confidence and the thrill of freedom as their biggest takeaways. Start small with a weekend getaway before working up to international travel if you’re hesitant.
Try a Cooking or Baking Experiment
Cooking for yourself doesn’t have to be routine; it can be an adventure. Pick a recipe you’ve never tried and spend the day experimenting with it. Put on music, pour a drink, and turn your kitchen into a personal playground. Cooking alone means there’s no pressure to impress, just freedom to explore.
Cooking at home more frequently helps you to eat healthier and spend less money than those who rely on takeout. Experimenting solo in the kitchen improves your skills, builds confidence, and gives you the joy of creating something entirely your own.
Spend a Day Unplugged
Screens dominate modern life, making it difficult to fully disconnect. But turning off your phone, closing your laptop, and staying off social media for a day can feel surprisingly refreshing. Without notifications, your brain gets the space it needs to reset.
Unplugging even for a few hours can reduce stress and improve sleep. Spend the day reading, journaling, or simply enjoying silence. You may find that digital breaks become something you crave regularly.
Volunteer on Your Own
Volunteering can be incredibly fulfilling, and going alone helps you connect more deeply with the experience. You’re not distracted by coordinating with a friend; you’re fully present with the people you’re serving. Whether it’s helping at a food bank, tutoring kids, or fostering animals, solo volunteering makes the impact more personal.
Beyond helping others, volunteering has been shown to lower depression and improve life satisfaction. Giving your time solo reminds you of your ability to make a difference, even in small ways.
15 Things Women Only Do With the Men They Love
The 15 Things Women Only Do With the Men They Love
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This piece explores 15 unique gestures women make when they’re in love. From tiny, almost invisible actions to grand declarations, each tells a story of deep affection and unwavering commitment.
