26 Best Winter Vacations in the US (Updated 2024)

When the chilly climate arrives, it brings out completely different feelings in everybody. Some love the chilly, some hate it, and for some, it means the vacation season is correct round the nook. Regardless of which class you fall into, you may nonetheless deal with your self in the winter months with these thrilling winter holidays. Whether that be a visit to Central Park and New York City, to the heat seashores of South Beach Miami, and even ice fishing in the coronary heart of Alaska, these are the greatest inexpensive winter holidays to embrace or escape the chilly, together with heading south to sunnier locations.

Best Cities for a Winter Getaway

With so many nice locations to go to in the winter, there are not any fallacious solutions. But that will help you out, right here’s our information to the greatest winter holidays in the U.S.

1. Savannah, Georgia

With fewer vacationers however simply as gorgeous as each different time of yr, Savannah makes for one among the greatest winter getaways. The delicate winter temperatures see the each day excessive by no means drop beneath the 60s, making it the good stability for individuals who like to rug up however nonetheless need to go discover. With your heat scarf wrapped round your neck, get pleasure from the crisp southern air as you wander down charming cobblestone boulevards, flanked by Antebellum mansions and moss-covered oaks. Just a brief distance away, you may discover the lovely Tybee Island.

During the day, take in the museums and charming vintage shops in the Historic District, go to a few of the eerily lovely cemeteries, and even make the journey to Tybee Island. At night time strive the choice of fabulous eating places, embark on a ghost tour, or pattern the occurring nightlife.

Where to remain: River Street Inn

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Providing the mountains with out the overwhelming snowfall, Asheville, North Carolina, is one among the greatest winter holidays in the US. The city has boomed in latest years on the again of robust tourism and new residents. Within Asheville, you’ll discover an array of actions alongside the French Broad River, from many native breweries to homegrown galleries in the River Arts District.

Stay cozy and discover the downtown space and such iconic areas like the Biltmore Estate, or make the most of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains for some adventurous outside actions. From Asheville, you’ll be capable of attain the Smoky Mountains, the place waterfalls tumble, and the mist rises over the surrounding meadows earlier than kicking again at one among the a number of lovely native wineries.

Where to remain: The Inn on Biltmore Estate

3. Chicago, Illinois for Ice Skating

Becoming a frozen lakeside metropolis in the winter months, Chicago might not be at the forefront of your plans for the winter holidays. But in the event you can embrace the flaws of Windy City, you’ll start to see why it’s one among the greatest locations to go to throughout the vacation season.

There is an air of festivity that may simply heat your chilly bones, with many festivals and occasions that unfold the cheer far and broad. Chicago is house to Winter Wonderfest, an annual winter carnival providing a buffet of enjoyable experiences, together with artwork, meals, and tradition. Perhaps the spotlight is ice skating in Millenium Park. In entrance of the unbelievable metropolis skyline, glide throughout the floor with tons of of others having fun with the neighborhood spirit that’s so fervent right now of yr. Check out the Top 10 Hot Spots to Eat in Chicago

Where to remain: Hotel Audrey

Now in the event you thought Chicago was chilly…

4. Anchorage, Alaska

Come the center of fall, tourism makes like the leaves and, properly, falls. With a pointy drop in temperature and daylight, Alaska in the winter sounds nuts for many individuals.

This is precisely why it’s the time to go to. Anchorage sees about 5 hours of daylight throughout the winter season. But you understand what that leaves room for, the spectacular Northern Lights. After experiencing that dazzling show, you’ll have your selection of thrilling winter actions that you could be not often have the probability to do. Those embrace heading out to the lakes for ice fishing, becoming a member of an unforgettable canine sledding tour, or embarking on some cross-country snowboarding.

Where to remain: The Lakefront Anchorage

5. New York City, New York

When the snow falls over the shiny lights of New York City, there are just a few extra mesmerizing sights. New York is well-designed for a winter go to. The metropolis could really feel huge and unending, however all the main websites are only a fast subway trip away. Rug up and start in Central Park, whose icy lakes glisten beneath the winter solar. Just like in Chicago, placed on the ice skates and skirt round the park beneath the towering northern crimson oaks. Check out New York City Itinerary – 5 Days in New York and these Fun Facts about New York

From there, expertise the better of New York’s museums and galleries, from MoMa to the American Museum of Natural History. Later, head to the Rockefeller Center to see the large Christmas Tree or wait round just a few extra days to take in the New Year in the coronary heart of Times Square. Read: Christmas in New York – What to do in NYC for the Holidays

Check out our suggestions for Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets.

6. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Let’s heat issues up a bit and head to the far south of American territories. San Juan, Puerto Rico is one among the greatest winter trip locations, particularly for Americans. Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, American residents don’t want a passport to go to. During the winter months, San Juan presents heat temperatures and sunny skies, making it an attractive escape from the chilly and snow of mainland U.S. seashores. The balmy climate is good for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring. In January, the common temperature is between 70 – and 83 levels.

San Juan, particularly Old San Juan, is steeped in historical past. The cobbled streets, colourful colonial buildings, and historic forts like El Morro and San Cristóbal provide guests a glimpse into the island’s wealthy previous.

San Juan boasts a few of the Caribbean’s most lovely seashores, like Condado, Isla Verde, and Escambrón. The crystal-clear waters and white sands are good for leisure and water actions. Plus, in comparison with different Caribbean locations, San Juan will be extra inexpensive in phrases of lodging, eating, and actions. This cost-effectiveness is particularly interesting to these trying to get the greatest worth for his or her trip {dollars}.

7. Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, stands as one among the premier winter trip locations for Americans, and for good cause. Nestled on the island of Oahu, Honolulu presents an ideal mix of city sophistication and pure splendor. As the mainland U.S. grapples with frost and snow, Honolulu boasts balmy temperatures and sun-kissed seashores, making it an inviting winter escape.

The absence of a passport requirement for U.S. residents, mixed with the attract of Waikiki Beach’s golden sands, Diamond Head’s panoramic views, and a wealthy tapestry of Polynesian tradition, makes the journey each handy and culturally enriching. Plus, the metropolis’s bustling nightlife, world-class procuring, and numerous culinary scene make sure that guests have a mess of leisure choices.

8. Orlando

Families will love visiting Orlando due to its many theme parks, significantly Disney World. Orlando is commonly dubbed “The Theme Park Capital of the World” and is undeniably one among the greatest winter trip locations for households. As the mercury dips in many elements of the U.S., Orlando’s temperate local weather presents a heat and welcoming respite, making it good for outside actions all through the winter months.

What actually units Orlando aside, nonetheless, is its unparalleled array of family-friendly points of interest. The metropolis is house to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. These parks go the further mile throughout the winter, with particular occasions, festive decorations, and holiday-themed parades, guaranteeing a singular expertise even for repeat guests.

Convenient lodging starting from luxurious resorts to family-centric inns are plentiful, usually full with facilities like swimming pools and recreation areas. Additionally, the metropolis’s central location in Florida makes it a strategic base for households to discover close by seashores, springs, and nature reserves.

Top National Parks for a Winter Vacation

9. Yellowstone National Park, Montana/Wyoming

If the thought of experiencing the chilly climate in Alaska in your subsequent winter trip captured your curiosity, you then’ll love our subsequent winter vacation spot. Yellowstone National Park is a wonderful different if Alaska is a bridge too far. For those that have visited in the summer time months, Yellowstone National Park is teeming with wildlife. With fewer vacationers, you’ll have much more alternatives to come across creatures like a roaming bison or deer.

With lots of the roads closed as a result of the winter climate (Most of the park will not be accessible to common guests from December to March), you’ll have a more durable time getting round, however it solely makes the rewards sweeter. You can take excursions or go snowmobiling to witness the snowmelt in opposition to the hovering geysers. Travel via blanket white meadows on a snowcat, or head to the customer heart for ranger-led nature packages and snowshoeing. Read extra: 27 Things to Do in Yellowstone – Plus Tips for First-time Visitors

Where to remain: Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Read extra at our full information: Where to Stay in Yellowstone

10. Joshua Tree National Park, California

A preferred winter escape from the close by cities of San Diego, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, Joshua Tree presents an otherworldly panorama ready to be explored. From close by Palm Springs, get pleasure from a mesmerizing drive via the park. Stop on a whim and journey throughout distinctive rock formations previous the quirky Joshua bushes and the distinctive surroundings of the Mojave Desert. Read extra: United States National Parks in Photos.

With wonderful to searing sizzling year-round temperatures, Joshua Tree is an excellent spot to go to in winter. Enjoy average temperatures and a blazing night time sky as you camp beneath the stars.

Where to remain: Pioneertown Motel

11. The Grand Canyon, Arizona

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At any time of yr, the Grand Canyon is one among the hottest vacationer locations in the United States. The immense canyon dwarfs you, creating spectacular views whichever method you look. The dense orange panorama is a burst of colour in opposition to the shiny blue sky, permitting for distinctive images. Now mix these two issues and add a dusting of snow, like sugar sprinkles on a mud cake. That’s the Grand Canyon in the winter.

Not all of the park is accessible throughout the winter, and as the snow suggests, it doesn’t stay heat. However, the shuttles to viewpoints stick with it, and a few scenic trails stay open. Check out 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon

Where to remain: Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins

12. Death Valley National Park, California

The names of trails in Death Valley are predictably morbid. There are trails similar to Coffin Peak and the Devil’s Golf Course, that are two examples. Those who go to in the summer time will perceive why. It is, in any case, the hottest and desolate level on earth. Now, as a cheerful, don’t-want-to-fry sort of man, that seems like all the extra cause to go to this one-of-a-kind vacation spot in the winter.

Drive via the valley, which has recorded a excessive of 134 levels, in nice 60+ temperatures, and embark on the brief climbing trails with out the danger of imminent dehydration. Pair this with a go to to the close by Yosemite National Park for a best-of-both-worlds-type winter trip. Read extra: Where to remain in Yosemite

Where to remain: The Inn at Death Valley

13. Crater Lake National Park

In lovely southern Oregon, Crater Lake brings in adventurers and vacationers alike in the summer time months. The enchanting climbing trails round the lake, fed solely by snow and rain, present breathtaking surroundings. But with out the packed automotive parks, Crater Lake is a kind of magical winter trip spots.

With a mean of 43 ft of snow every winter, the park is a wonderland for snow sports activities. Trails open at no cost guided snowshoeing excursions, together with the picturesque 4-mile Discover Point Trail, with the alternative to enterprise additional on to Klamath Falls. Visitors may also embark on a charming 9-mile snowmobile journey. Read extra: 21 Awesome Places to Visit in Oregon

Where to remain: Sun Mountain Ranch BunkHouse

Best Places TO Ski In America

14. Vail, Colorado

The king of American ski resorts and one among the greatest locations to go to in the winter, Vail, Colorado, has over 200 trails and 30 well-placed lifts prepared to your epic ski trip. Read More: Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Snowboarders additionally love visiting Vail. Vail was the first mountain to embrace what was as soon as a revolutionary motion. Vail’s Back Bowls are legendary and a spot the place world-class snowboarding and snowboarding meet artwork. With such open plains, you should utilize the slopes like a canvas as you meander your method down the mountain. After just a few days on the hill, get pleasure from a change of surroundings with interchangeable tickets that can help you go to locations like Breckenridge, simply 45 minutes away.

Where to remain: Christiania Lodge

15. Big Sky, Montana

With a mean snow dump of over 30 ft, Big Sky is as epic as its identify suggests. The ski resort in southwest Montana is a winter wonderland with a few of the greatest downhill snowboarding in the United States.

With over 4000 ft of vertical elevation to cowl, you’ll have your work reduce out, experiencing each a part of the gorgeous terrain. In whole, there are 4 mountains overlaying 6000 acres and 300 runs to decide on between. Meanwhile, the charming Mountain Village awaits with some après-ski to reward your drained legs.

Where to remain: Lone Mountain Ranch

16. Lake Tahoe

With 12 ski resorts at each Lake Tahoe South and North, this US winter vacation spot is a playground to the stars. As a bunch of the 1960 Winter Olympics, you may remember to expertise wonderful runs. Heavenly is the hottest and highest vertical drop in California. Located on South Lake Tahoe, it sees quite a lot of crowds, however as a result of it’s so huge, you will get away from all of it.

Sugarbowl is the closest to San Francisco and Sacramento, making it a favourite amongst locals. It has that old-school really feel with the highest quantity of snowfall in the area. North Star has a few of the greatest views of Lake Tahoe and is an entire household resort with a village and, our private favourite.

But Lake Tahoe isn’t nearly snowboarding; it has lovely surroundings at Emerald Bay, snowshoe trails round the lake, and Casinos in Nevada‘s Lake Tahoe South, and it hosts the annual Lake Tahoe Snowfest with ten unfilled days of winter enjoyable. Read extra about the 28 Best Things to Do in Lake Tahoe.

Where to Stay: Ritz Carlton Hotel.

17. Park City, Utah

As the former house of the Winter Olympics, there may be extra to Park City than unforgettable slopes. For winter journey in the United States, Park City takes the cake! It’s a year-round vacation spot in its personal proper. Visitors can get pleasure from the journey parks, embark on a hair-raising bobsleigh trip, or get pleasure from the climbing and mountain biking trails.

But it’s the winter sports activities that put Park City on the map. The constant powder makes it a lock for nice snowboarding and snowboarding. Plus, it has numerous bluebird days whereas being the largest ski resort in the nation. The nightlife in city is one other spotlight because of a pumping reside music scene.

Where to remain: Park City Peaks

18. Stowe, Vermont

The icy climate on Vermont’s ski slopes could not make it as common as the slopes in Utah and Colorado, however the state has a few of the greatest cross-country ski trails in the USA.

If you are feeling like avoiding the lengthy elevate strains and crowds in common, then a cross-country ski journey is the method to unlock a winter paradise away from all of it. In the woods round Stowe, you’ll discover dozens of trails with simply sufficient use to make them clean and simple to navigate. Pack a lunch and a few sizzling chocolate and meander via the forests with the solar shining via the cover, inflicting the snow to glitter.

Where to remain: Trapp Family Lodge

Best Warm Winter Vacations USA

19. New Orleans, Lousiana

Looking for locations to go to to have a heat winter trip? Ready to get out of the blistering chilly and revel in an extended summer time? New Orleans seems like the place for you. Be transported to previous France in the French Quarter as you discover one among the most historic cities in the USA.

Sure, the temps drop to (a nice) 65 however the vibe retains on trucking. The Big Easy is one place that by no means slows down, winter or not. Settle in on the downtown streets to make the most of the mouthwatering Creole and Cajun cuisines, or enterprise out to Magazine Street for procuring, haunted cemeteries, and spacious public parks.

The metropolis’s many museums, the National WWII Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art, will provide you with a glimpse into its historical past and tradition. As the solar falls, reminisce about the bitter winter again north as you traipse alongside Bourbon Street with a hurricane in your hand. With its French, Spanish, and African influences, New Orleans will go away you enchanted and wanting to come back again.

Read extra: The Essential 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

Where to remain: Royal Sonesta

20. Key West, Florida

With the common excessive by no means dropping beneath 75, Key West is a tremendous, heat winter getaway. In truth, you could possibly make the case that there’s no higher time to go to the southernmost level in the contiguous USA.

Bid adieu to the winter blues and revel in the Florida solar with out the stifling warmth that floats in throughout the summer time. Spend your days leaping between outlets and bars on Duval Street, swimming in Dry Tortugas, and visiting the Hemingway Home and Museum. All earlier than sitting down in Mallory Square and watching the superb sundown alongside road performers and an adoring crowd. Also learn: Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary.

Where to remain: Courtney’s Place Historic Cottages and Inns

21. Sedona, Arizona

When it involves heat winter locations which are filled with outside adventures, Sedona, Arizona, is one place that springs to thoughts. Have an opportunity to discover the superb surroundings of the Arizona Desert and the Verde Valley.

For a lot of the yr, Sedona is teeming with vacationers who come from throughout to hike alongside the well-known native trails. But in winter, with a lightweight dusting of snow on the desert peaks, you’ll get pleasure from quieter hikes to locations like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge earlier than exploring the lovely Sedona Desert Botanical Garden in soothing 60-degree climate. In the evenings, get pleasure from a captivating downtown space or cozy up by the hearth with the one you love. Read extra: 16 Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona.

Where to remain: Whispering Creek Bed & Breakfast

22. St. John, US Virgin Islands

With two-thirds of St. John being a nationwide park, guests get to get pleasure from attractive white sand seashores away from civilization. After flying all the way down to St. Thomas, catch the ferry to St. John, Cruz Bay being your first vacation spot.

After settling into your lodging, head again all the way down to the bay and soar in the open-air taxis that drive round the whole island. Along the method, you’ll drive by a sequence of impeccable white sand seashores, from Hawksnest to Maho Bay, with Trunk Bay being the better of the lot.

You may spend a day at every seaside and nonetheless have extra to see after per week. Along with the mouthwatering tacos at Limeout, a floating restaurant, there’s no cause to say no to this balmy expertise.

Where to remain: Gallows Point Resort

23. Austin, Texas

The capital of Texas, Austin is a reside music metropolis that has few rivals. It is definitely referred to as the reside music capital of the nation. With average winter temperatures, it’s the good time of yr to discover the downtown, providing a flurry of museums, galleries, delectable eats, and vibrant nightlife.

Beyond the downtown, you’ll discover a lot to do when the solar is shining. Kayak or stroll round Lady Bird Lake, make your method to Barton Springs, or additional out to the gorgeous Lake Travis. Later, return for a sundown hike on Mount Bonnell for an epic golden hour. Read More about Austin right here: 29 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Where to remain: Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt

24. San Diego, California

Like Austin above, San Diego has an thrilling nightlife that doesn’t let up when the temperatures drop. Not that it drops by a lot, however guests can get pleasure from delicate climate with nice 60-degree temps all winter lengthy as they enterprise between the storied shoreline and the occurring downtown.

Although the water will be chilly, when the solar is out on the sand is the place to be. Experience Coronado, Pacific Beach, or Ocean Beach, the latter house to the greatest burgers in Southern California at Hodads. At night time, have your selection of the bougie La Jolla, the Old Town for much more superb meals, and the attractive Gaslamp District for date night time and dim-lit bars. Read extra: Best Beaches in California.

Make certain you take a look at our information to Where to Stay in San Diego!

25. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, one among the prime locations in Hawaii, combines attractive climate with a sequence of pristine white sand seashores backed by swaying palms. It’s the stuff goals are manufactured from and all the extra cause to go to in the winter. Check out all the 46 Best Things to do on Maui

After escaping the chilly, you may select between spending your days lazing by the seaside sipping on tropical cocktails or venturing inland to expertise one among the many superb climbing trails. Read extra: Top 12 Hikes in Maui to Take Your Breath Away

Another cause to go to right now of yr is for whale watching. From November to May, whales migrate to the Hawaiian waters, with numbers reaching their peak in February. Also Read: 22 Unique Adventures in Maui

These are our suggestions for Where to Stay in Maui.

26. Kauai

Kauai, referred to as the “Garden Isle” of Hawaii, emerges as one among the most idyllic winter trip locations for Americans. As winter blankets a lot of the U.S. with chilly temperatures and snow, Kauai presents a contrasting paradise with its heat, tropical local weather and luxurious landscapes.

Distinct from the extra commercialized Hawaiian islands, Kauai is a haven for these looking for a extra tranquil and genuine connection to nature. The island’s numerous topography, from the gorgeous cliffs of the Napali Coast to the cascading waters of Wailua Falls and the huge expanse of Waimea Canyon, usually termed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” guarantees breathtaking vistas and adventures for each traveler.

Kauai’s pristine seashores, similar to Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach, beckon with their golden sands and turquoise waters, good for sunbathing, snorkeling, and browsing. Adding to its enchantment, Kauai maintains a wealthy cultural heritage, the place conventional luaus, Hawaiian music, and dance create immersive experiences for guests.

Winter Vacation Ideas for Outdoor Lovers

If you’re an outside lover, there are many winter trip concepts for getting your blood pumping. From snowboarding and snowboarding to mountain climbing and canine sledding, there’s no scarcity of journey on the market. Head to Lake Tahoe, the place you may ski or snowboard at one among the many top-notch resorts or strive your hand at ice skating on the frozen lake. Or go to Salt Lake City, the place you may snowshoe in the close by mountains or take a guided ice-climbing tour. Or go canine sledding in Alaska or Wyoming for the final expertise.

Winter Road Trips

There’s one thing about taking a highway journey in the winter. The snow-covered landscapes, the cabin stops, and the heat cups of espresso at the roadside diners all add as much as an actual winter wonderland. Take a highway journey to the Rocky Mountains, the place you may drive the scenic byways and take in the views of the snow-topped peaks. Or head to the Pacific Coast Highway, the place you may drive the coast and cease at the charming seaside cities. With its pure magnificence and winter coziness, a highway journey is the greatest method to expertise winter in the US.

Budget Winter Vacations

You don’t should lay our a fortune to have an ideal winter trip. There are loads of budget-friendly choices that will probably be enjoyable and memorable with out the massive price ticket. Head to a smaller ski resort like Hunter Mountain in New York or Mt. Bachelor in Oregon, the place you may ski or snowboard for a fraction of the value of the massive resorts.

Look for package deal offers that embrace lodging, elevate tickets, and different perks. Rent a cabin or condominium as an alternative of a lodge room, which might usually be extra inexpensive and have extra facilities. With somewhat planning and creativity, you may have an ideal winter trip with out breaking the financial institution.

Final Thoughts

There’s no higher time to expertise the numerous geography and climates in the United States than in the winter. The greatest winter holidays on provide embrace all the things from epic ski resorts, nationwide parks, desert cities, and beachside communities.

Whether you need to embrace the chilly or chase heat climate, the choices are excitingly limitless. So when the temperature drops, you’ll know precisely what to do.