This blog post was updated on February 2, 2023.

Valentine’s Day. The most romantic day of the year. And for whatever reason, you’re single. You’re usually fine the other 364 days of the year. But with the constant stream of commercialized romance that comes with February 14, we don’t blame you for wanting a bit of time away. So, jump in the car, hop a train, or board a flight — because there are many benefits to traveling on your own.

Here are some ideas for trips to take if you find yourself single on Valentine’s Day.

Treat yourself

Whether your most recent failed romance ended just days ago or has been over for months, there’s nothing that’ll take your mind off heartache like some pampering. And while ordering takeout and binge-watching Netflix might be how you usually spoil yourself, why not leave it to the professionals? Finding a decent spa is pretty easy, preferably one that’s just a few hours away and also has an adjoining hotel. Feel free to sleep in, order room service, enjoy a massage, partake in facials and skin treatments, and more.

Rough it

Many have argued in favor of the healing power of communing with nature. Thoreau had Walden Pond, Jack London had Alaska, and Hemingway had Key West. So why not crib from them and enjoy the therapeutic effect of getting back to the back woods? If you’re within traveling distance of some warm enough areas, you’ll probably find some pristine spots where it’s worth popping a tent or unrolling a bedroll to sleep under the stars. Too cold for camping? Rent a cabin and warm up with a wood stove when the brisk outdoors get a little too chilly. And don’t be afraid to look into some “glamping” options. Just because you’re communing with nature, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little comfort along the way.

Learn something

Traveling isn’t just for relaxing and clearing your head. It can also be used to expand your knowledge. Spend some time away checking out some museums. Whether you’re interested in art, science, history, or something more off the wall like UFOs or cryptozoology. There’s a museum for practically any area of interest that you could possibly have. Plenty of cities have a variety of walking tours that give visitors an understanding of history, including architecture, food, diversity, and even crime.

Give back

Charity work can nourish the soul. There are plenty of people out there who need help, including those who don’t live near you. Luckily, the genre of travel known as “voluntourism” mixes taking a trip and lending a hand. You can build homes in an impoverished foreign country, help feed another city’s homeless, or even assist with the protection of endangered animals.

Get spiritual

Oftentimes, being single or just recovering from a long-term relationship can leave you questioning a lot of things. Why not take the time to find some answers? You can book flights to that pilgrimage tour you’ve always wanted to do. Or maybe, there’s an ashram or a meditation camp that can put some balance back into your life.

Whatever it is that can help you find that happy middle ground in your mind is exactly what you should pursue right now. After all, it’s new experiences like these that can truly unlock your full potential. Plus, you’ll feel more confident about achieving all the secret goals that we all spend a lot of time dreaming about.

You may also enjoy reading: 8 of the Best Destinations for Solo Travel

Express yourself

Sometimes, a little travel to reignite personal passions can be the perfect way to celebrate a solo weekend. Your talents and hobbies, although they may be dormant, could help you rediscover a lot of things about yourself. Maybe you dabbled in a bit of art in college, but didn’t have time for it once your corporate career kicked on. Well, this is the opportune moment to go on that artist retreat you’ve heard about that’s a few states away.

Or maybe you played guitar in a band but gave it up because you didn’t have time. Pick up that axe once again and head out on the road to a guitar workshop that’s taking place at a resort. If you always wanted to put the great story ideas in your mind on paper but never got around to fine-tuning your words, find a writer’s workshop in a pristine setting. Hey, maybe you’ve always fancied yourself as quick-witted and you’re not afraid of getting up on stage. Try signing up for a neighboring city’s open-mic night at a comedy club. It could leave you with a newfound confidence you never knew you had.

Push your limits

While relaxation and self-discovery are great ways to enjoy your solo weekend, there may be some of you who prefer a healthy dose of adrenaline to make your trip a memorable success. Whether you’re a born daredevil or just curious, there are a number of adventurous outings that will satisfy your heart’s desire. Try booking that bungee jumping getaway or going to a location that offers skydiving. If you’re a person who loves being in and around water, go ahead and book that scuba diving session or learn how to kayak or paddleboard with a one-on-one instructor.

If keeping your feet on the ground is a prerequisite to your weekend, then grab a bike and head out into the wilderness on dirt tracks and across streams. Or, get out of your comfort zone with a 5-mile hike up a mountain. You’ll realize that the more you try to break out of your boundaries, the happier you’ll feel about yourself.

Do you have any other ideas for solo travel those who are single on Valentine’s day? Share them with us in the comments.