30 Best Winter Vacations in the US

1: Breckenridge, Colorado

A ski-lovers paradise, Breckenridge is a destination for the best winter vacations in the US.

With plenty of snowfall all season and one of the top ski resorts in the country, it’s no wonder why it continues to be a bucket list place to visit.

The Breckenridge Ski Resort is the main attraction. In a town surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks, this resort has world-class runs for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels.

So, hit the slopes for a day of fun or find lessons that will have you shredding the runs in no time!

Even if you’re not planning to ski, Breckenridge has plenty to offer. Main Street is one of the most popular destinations where you’ll find excellent restaurants for dining and boutique shops lining the snowy streets.

During the holidays, a walk down this street feels like a winter wonderland as you enjoy the festive decorations at nearly every storefront.

2: Savannah, Georgia

If you’re looking for one of the best winter escapes in the United States, Savannah, GA, will be your new favorite destination to travel to during the winter.

This charming southern city is full of fun activities to keep entertained throughout the entire season.

With historic buildings and districts dotting the entire city, Savannah is a place that takes you back in time.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself into Savannah’s heritage is by horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic districts and homes.

Another way to get around town is via a trolley. The winter season kicks off the Holiday Trolley Tour that takes riders around town to admire the best Christmas light displays that will genuinely amaze you.

When you’re ready to get active this winter season, head down to the Savannah Civic Center, where you’ll discover an ice skating rink. This seasonal skating rink is the perfect activity for the entire family.

3: Key West, Florida

Save your trip to Key West, Florida, until the wintertime, where this famous beach destination provides the perfect winter escape.

It will be one of the best winter vacations in the US that you take, thanks to the fantastic weather during this time of year.

Key West Florida is located at the southern tip of the US and where you’ll find a landmark designating the southernmost point of the contiguous states.

But aside from the warm weather and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of activities that don’t let you forget that it’s winter.

Locals in Key West know how to celebrate the holidays the right way. The entire town gets involved with the annual holiday parade to kick off the season and the Lighted Boat Parade for a unique look a decorative boats illuminated with Christmas lights.

As for the New Year’s celebration, Key West stays true to its roots with a Conch Shell drop to ring in the new year.

4: Leavenworth, Washington

While Leavenworth, WA, is a quiet, small-town for most of the year, it’s one of the best places to visit in December in the USA.

It’s a famous Christmas town where lights, holiday celebrations, and Santa Claus keep visitors high in holiday spirits.

Leavenworth is a Bavarian town with German-style architecture everywhere you look. It gets an entire makeover during the winter with Christmas lights, holiday decorations, and, of course, a fresh layer of snow.

If the holidays are your favorite time of year, Leavenworth provides plenty of opportunities to celebrate unashamedly.

You can participate in various Christmas parades throughout the season, shop for souvenirs in markets and boutique shops, light and decoration tours, and even meet Santa Claus.

Leavenworth is truly a scenic destination during the winter from the decorations around town set against the backdrop of a snowy mountain that makes you feel like you’re in a winter fairytale.

5: Mount Hood, Oregon

Dress warmly because your trip to Mount Hood this season will be filled with winter adventures outdoors.

This gem in the northwest gets tons of snow, that even more fun to play in than it is looking at how beautiful the landscape looks.

Mount Hood is one of the best winter vacations in the US for travelers who enjoy being active during the season.

The mountainous Mt. Hood is the perfect setting to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. And with five ski resorts located around town, you can always find the ideal ski run regardless of whether you’re a beginner or expert skier.

If you need a break from the slopes, Mt. Hood National Forest is the next best destination to check out.

Treat yourself to an adrenaline-filled ride through the forest on a snowmobile tour or snowshoe trek where you’ll zip through the snow-topped trees.

6: Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Straddled on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is one of the best travel destinations all year round.

But while most travelers visit during the Summer months, they might be missing out on one of the best times of year to visit.

Wintertime in Lake Tahoe is full of activities, regardless of whether you want to stay near the lake or venture high into the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range surrounding it.

You’ll immediately be taken away by the beautiful views of the lake and mountain landscape that encourage all visitors to explore even further.

Lake Tahoe is a famous skiing destination, home to world-class ski runs that have even hosted the Winter Olympics. Squaw Valley and Heavenly Mountain are the top ski resorts on the mountain.

Visitors can get in the mood for the holidays by walking around Heavenly Village, which ranks among the best winter wonderlands in the US with its festive décor and ice skating rink.

7: New York City, New York

Wintertime transforms the ‘Big Apple’ into a frozen treat that travelers love taking a bite out of.

New York City ranks high on the list of best winter destinations in the US that most people have already seen in their favorite holiday movies and now have a chance to experience in person.

Visiting NYC in the winter can be very cold, but the exciting activities will quickly make you forget about the weather.

A fresh snowfall sets the perfect atmosphere for the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony that draws enormous crowds to start the holiday season.

Go for a stroll down Fifth Avenue to admire the decorative store windows or stick around for the Saks Fifth Avenue holiday light show projected on the building. Or, if you get tired of walking, there’s always a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy Central Park.

If you think Times Square is busy, wait until you see the crowds gathering here on New Year’s Eve, anticipating the famous ball drop!

8: Yellowstone, Wyoming

Yellowstone is the first national park established in the US and remains one of the most visited parks in the system.

As an insider tip, the wintertime is an excellent time to experience all of the wonders of the park without the massive crowds seen during the summer. You’ll have the best views of nature’s greatest wonders.

Wintertime in Yellowstone National Park is a clash of temperatures – a blanket of snow covering the surface above the boiling, thermal heat awaiting to emerge from underground.

It’s what makes seeing the famous geysers shooting up even more spectacular during this season.

While there might not be as many visitors during the winter, you’ll still be accompanied by an abundance of wildlife.

Winter is one of the best times to see herds of bison, wolves, and elk trekking through the park’s landscape.

9: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Join the ranks of snowbirds flocking to Myrtle Beach as one of the best winter vacation spots in the US.

The mild climate averaging in the mid-50s is warm enough to get away from the harsh winter climate.

Winter is the off-season at Myrtle Beach, so it’s the perfect time to snag a deal on a beachfront resort or condo that you’ve been eyeing since the summertime.

It puts you in the perfect location to enjoy this coastal destination, where you’ll have a bit of serenity from the beach crowds gathering here during warmer months.

Without many people splashing in the water, it’s a rare chance to see the beautiful skyline and Ferris wheel reflected in the ocean.

Also, the holiday lights strung along the boardwalk makes for a peaceful holiday stroll. And if you’re itching to get active, there’s always the seasonal ice skating rink available for travelers to enjoy during the winter.

10: Whitefish, Montana

Views of the snow-capped Big Mountain towering in the backdrop as you arrive in Whitefish, Montana will instantly confirm that it’s one of the best winter vacations in the US.

Famous as a ski destination, it’s excellent for enjoying winter sports and the holiday town atmosphere.

Ski-enthusiasts set their compasses to Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort as soon as the ski season opens up every winter.

As one of the country’s top ski destinations, Big Mountain provides plenty of fun runs for expert skiers and leisure skiers looking to have their first experience on the slopes. It offers routes for downhill skiing and cross country.

Even if you’re not into skiing, Whitefish has plenty in store for you at the foot of the mountain.

Spending time on Main Street downtown is a must to enjoy the iconic views of Big Mountain in the background.

There are plenty of places for dining and shopping for the perfect holiday gifts.

11: New Orleans, Louisiana

You’ll instantly feel the warm, southern hospitality when arriving in New Orleans during the winter.

This southern haven cools off for the season, allowing everyone to spend more time outdoors and explore all of the fun things that it has to offer.

The holiday season in the French Quarter is always fun with lights, parades, and festivals, but you might want to wait until the new year when you truly get to see the city come to life. One such festival to anticipate during the winter is the famous Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras happens every March—the perfect way to close out the winter. This massive winter festival draws over one million visitors to participate in the music, dancing, and costumed parade through town.

New Orleans cuisine is famous worldwide, and winter means its oyster season. You'll find the best-tasting oysters at your favorite restaurants in town.

12: Salt Lake City, Utah

Hopefully, you love the snow if you’re planning to visit Salt Lake City because, with over 50-inches of snowfall every winter, it appropriately earns its reputation for the “Greatest Snow on Earth” and best winter destinations in the US.

Many of Salt Lake City’s wintertime activities center around the snow, with lots of fun outdoor activities for the entire family.

For winter sports enthusiasts, Salt Lake City is the perfect hub town to explore the ski resorts established across the summits of the Rocky Mountains.

Views of the snow-capped peaks from the city let you know that you’re never too far away from your next winter adventure.

As an alternative, you can find activities like ice fishing on the lake or soaking in the Mystic Hot Springs, which will keep you warm even in the cool wintertime air. And be sure to have your camera ready as you tour inside the nearby ice castles.

13: Washington, DC

A trip to Washington DC, the nation's capital, with be one of your best winter vacations in the US.

From the enormous Christmas trees decorating the lawns of the White House and Capitol Building to the fun wintertime activities around town, there are plenty of reasons to stop by DC this season.

Holiday light displays around Washington DC will be some of the most impressive you’ve ever seen. It’s a city that knows how to light up the cold, snowy skies during the winter.

Wintertime in Washington DC is the perfect chance to visit some of the popular destinations around town.

In addition, there are plenty of options for ice skating with rinks set up at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden and the Washington Harbour Ice Rink.

Are you craving a bit of culture? Then, head down to the JFK Center for the Performing Arts to catch a world-class holiday show.

14: Vail, Colorado

Winter sports are all the hype when visiting Vail, Colorado. It’s one of the most anticipated times of the year when you get to enjoy all of the fun, snowy activities awaiting in this wintertime destination.

Vail is famous in skiing and snowboarding communities who get to enjoy the world-class slopes found in the mountains surrounding Vail.

For the leisure traveler, a few days on the slopes is plenty to get their fix before exploring the main other fun activities in town.

Hang out in Vail Village, where you’ll be delighted with plenty of holiday decorations, dining, shopping, and cozy accommodations to keep you warm after spending time outdoors. In addition, there is an ice skating rink and even sleigh rides around town.

Leave your car behind and go for a ride on a snowmobile tour to explore the town. Or, if you want the best view, ride up the Scenic Gondola Ride, which overlooks the entire Vail Valley.

15: Fairbanks, Alaska

While other travelers seek warmer climates to escape the cold weather, Fairbanks, Alaska, is a destination to consider that will surely be one of the best winter vacations in the US. So dress warm, because the best parts of this city are found outdoors.

You’ll be surprised by how many people set their sights on Fairbanks during the winter. It’s a season when Alaska has its shortest months, creating the perfect setting to witness one of the world’s greatest phenomenon—the northern lights.

Colorful hues of greens, purples, reds, and blues illuminate the night sky overhead in Fairbanks, giving anyone a rush of awe as they admire the rare sight.

It’s one of the best places in the world to witness the full effect of the aurora borealis that will quickly make you forget about the cold temperatures.

And if you want to take advantage of the brief moments of sunlight every day, exploring ice caves, ice fishing, and snowmobiling are always high on the list of things to do.

16: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Whether you’re a fan of the cold and want to spend time outdoors or looking for a cozy, festive celebration to spend the season, wintertime in Philadelphia is one of the best times to visit the city.

A fresh blanket of snow always gives Philadelphia a beautiful, winterized makeover that introduces a host of fun activities to celebrate the season.

Sit beneath the twinkling holiday lights strung overhead as you skate around the ice rink at the Waterfront Winterfest at Blue Cross River Rink. And you can always find the perfect gifts when shopping in the popup stalls in the Christmas Village.

The Longwood Gardens Christmas Gardens are more than accommodating if it gets too cold outside, with its indoor botanical garden redecorated with a holiday light spectacle.

During the evening, be sure to grab tickets to see the PA Ballet perform classic wintertime shows like the Nutcracker.

17: Chicago, Illinois

Take our word for it—the iconic Chicago skyline looks even better after a fresh coat of snow.

But while you might not be taking a skyline cruise in Lake Michigan this season to take it all in, there are plenty of other activities offering amazing views and fun during the winter in Chicago.

Chicago is one of the best winter vacations in the US will something to do for everyone.

One of the most anticipated things to do in Chicago is ice skating in Millenium Park. Skate past the landmark Cloud Gate sculpture, where you’ll see the stunning skyline of Chicago as you loop around the rink.

Navy Pier is always a destination when you visit Chicago, where you’ll get to enjoy tons of waterfront activities and holiday lights this season.

You’ll indeed be looking forward to lots of snow when you head to Soldier Field Sled Hill, where kids and adults can sled and tube down the snowy hill for hours of fun.

18: Oahu, Hawaii

Traveling to Hawaii can take an entire day from many places, but the trip is well worth it, especially during the winter.

It’s among the best winter trips in the US, and a couple of weeks off of work and school gives plenty of time to arrive and enjoy the best things that the islands have to offer.

Oahu is the most famous island to visit in Hawaii, home to the capital, Honolulu. Winter in the islands is something you'll never forget. Spend the day at Waikiki Beach for fun in the sun.

The waves are always excellent conditions for surfing (or learning), and you might even catch a surf competition happening. Be sure to watch where you walk because you might see snowmen made from sand decorating the beach.

Winter is also whale watching season, where you can go on tours to see the world’s largest mammals.

19: Mammoth Lakes, California

Experience what it’s like to be off-grid when you visit Mammoth Lakes in California.

Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, there are plenty of reasons to make this one of the best winter vacation spots in the US.

Get ready to enjoy the outdoors because snow during the wintertime is a clear signal that it’s time to put on your coat and enjoy the winter sports and activities around town.

Head to the top of Mammoth Mountain, where you’ll have exhilarating ski and snowboard runs. Rip down the slopes or go cross-country skiing because there are routes for all types of skiers.

When you’re ready to warm up, soak in the natural hot springs that offer views of the landscape while sitting in the outdoor pools.

One of the unique activities you’ll find in Mammoth Lakes is winter golfing.

20: Sedona, Arizona

The red rocks landscape of Sedona, Arizona, is instantly recognizable. But the summer can get very hot to truly immerse yourself into it, which makes the winter the ideal time to visit.

With temperatures hovering between the 50s and 60s and lots of sunshine, you’ll get to enjoy all the fun local activities without breaking a sweat.

Wintertime hiking in Sedona is something all the locals will tell you about as soon as you arrive.

So, get ready to kick up some red dust as you ascend the mountain slopes to reach the summits providing incredible views overlooking the city.

An alternative is taking a scenic ATV or jeep tour that takes you on a wild ride to the top for amazing views.

Winter is an excellent time to enjoy a winery tour in Sedona. You’ll get to sample spirits from the recent harvest, and crowds are typically at a minimum during the season.

21: Park City, Utah

Park City became high on the radar of many winter travelers after successfully hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics.

But even nearly two decades later, the excitement for winter sports never faded away from this winter vacation hotspot.

As one of Utah’s wintertime gems, Park City is a go-to destination to enjoy various winter sports. And with plenty of snowfall during the season, any day is a great day to ski or snowboard the premier slopes on Park City Mountain.

There are runs for all experience levels that make even first-timers feel like Olympic athletes.

Pay a visit to the Utah Olympic Park to see exhibitions dedicated to the 2002 Winter Olympics. There are tons of memorabilia and displays to inspire your next run on the slopes.

But skiing isn’t the only thing to do in Park City. So, hop on the trolley and ride along Main Street until you find a shop or restaurant worth hopping off to check out!

22: Stowe, Vermont

Nestled high in the mountains is the town of Stowe, Vermont, where winter and snow are synonymous.

The best way to experience winter in Stowe is by embracing the flurry of snowflakes that never seems to keep anybody indoors.

Stowe invites everyone to get active during one of the best places to visit in winter in the USA. It's a mecca for winter sports where you can find skiing, ice climbing, dog sledding, and more.

Two of the top resorts in Stowe are the Stowe Mountain Resort and Trapp Family Lodge.

Both destinations provide cozy accommodations and plenty of snow-covered acreages to enjoy fun, wintertime activities. Take a ride on the Scenic Gondola SkyRide, for example, for one of the best views in town.

Stowe is a mountain town that knows how to have a great time. Join in the fun during one of the Store Winter Carnival activities with everything from a winter gala to live shows.

23: Nashville, Tennessee

In America’s “Music City,” Christmas caroling isn’t the only melodies you’ll hear during the winter season.

Winter is the perfect time to explore the city’s musical heritage, where live music and memorabilia will give you a rockin’ good vacation.

The good news about visiting Nashville is that it will never get extremely cold, making it perfect for exploring the town.

On the few days that you do experience snow, head to one of the local music museums to spend time indoors browsing the rich musical legacy in Nashville. You can also see live performances at the legendary Grand Ole Opry.

When the weather warms up, it’s time to see the famous lights in Nashville! And although there are the Dancing Lights of Christmas event or trolley rides to check out the brilliant decorations, the best lights are seen on Honky Tonk Highway.

Broadway St. is lined with bright neon signs beckoning visitors to enjoy a few brews, live music, and a fun atmosphere.

24: Traverse City, Michigan

With as much snow as you’re sure to experience in Traverse City, boots might not even be enough. But if you’re all set to go with snowshoes, this northern Michigan destination could be one of your best winter vacations in the US.

Your Traverse City excursion starts downtown, where you’ll have beautiful lights in the trees running along the streets.

There are plenty of local restaurants, taprooms for spirits to warm you up, boutique shops to browse, and check the marquee of the State Theatre to see what movie you can catch next.

After some time in the city, it’s time to check out a few nearby outdoor activities to take advantage of the winter wonderland.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an authentic Michigan experience with snowshoeing the snow-covered dunes with scenic views of Lake Michigan.

25: The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Did you know that the Berkshires are home to over half of the major ski areas in Massachusetts? No wonder it’s become one of the most popular winter vacations in the US for winter sports enthusiasts.

Wintertime is one of the busiest times to visit the Berkshires. Skiiers and snowboards flock to locations like the Berkshire East Ski Area, Jimmy Peak, and Butternut to conquer the best ski areas in New England.

There is always lots of snow and groomed runs designed for family fun or pushing the limits of your riding skills on Black-Diamond runs.

Indeed spending so much time on the slopes takes up a lot of energy. However, the Berkshires offers plenty of other festive activities during the season that gives a chance for leisure.

For example, visit the Mount for a Holiday House Tour or shop the local crafts and gifts at the Botanical Garden Holiday Marketplace.

26: Taos, New Mexico

A trip to Taos will make you rethink how winters look in New Mexico. From the snow-covered Taos pueblos to over 300-inches of snow blanketing Taos Ski Valley every year, this winter destination hotspot has plenty in store for visitors.

Taos Ski Valley is the most famous ski resort in New Mexico. And with ample snow to last the entire season, you’ll have a few months to take advantage of the world-class ski runs.

So, whether you enjoy cross-country skiing, downhill runs, riders of all ski levels will have lots of fun.

Admittedly, not everyone is a fan of skiing. Taos provides several other winter activities that aren’t skiing.

You can still enjoy the high altitudes with snowmobile tours that take you to incredible heights for views over the valley. Or if that’s still not high enough, how about a ride on a hot air balloon.

When you’re finished, warm up in one of the local hot springs!

27: Kennebunkport, Maine

There’s nothing more magical than a New England winter to plan your next vacation. And a trip to Kennebunkport, Maine, is a charming community that makes the winter season even more special.

You’ll find family-friendly activities to celebrate the holidays, snow, and other favorite parts of the winter around town.

Stay in one of the many bed and breakfast accommodations near Kennebunkport for a cozy winter holiday. You’ll never be too far away from winter activities to keep you active during the trip.

Visitors can enjoy snowshoe tours through Wells reserve or go for a sleigh ride through the hilly regions right outside of town.

Many farms are located nearby Kennebunkport that receive complete makeovers for the holidays.

Laudholm Farm is a popular family-friendly destination entirely decorated for the season and has events and activities for all ages.

28: Asheville, North Carolina

The snowy Blue Ridge Mountains are all the buzz when visiting Asheville, North Carolina, for the winter.

And with mild weather all season, there’s always an excuse to spend time outdoors for incredible views, winter sports, and holiday activities.

With the holidays kicking off the winter season, there are several local attractions worth checking out to get into the festive spirit.

Consider this your personal invitation to spend Christmas at Biltmore Estate, a massive entirely decorated with lights, Christmas trees and hosts seasonal events.

And if the lights in this estate aren’t enough to impress you, a leisure stroll through the NC Arboretum will have a spectacular display across its trees.

On a warmer winter day, head out into the mountainous regions for hiking and skiing. Popular trails take you to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, while Moonshine Mountain provides some of the best ski runs in the area.

29: Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you missed out on taking an extravagant beach trip during the summer, a visit to Gulf Shores, Alabama, will make up for it.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico coast, Gulf Shores is always one of the best winter getaways in the US, with beaches that are open year-round and the perfect weather to ditch your winter coat.

The weather in the Gulf Shores tends to stay in the low- to mid-60s, and tons of sunshine to enjoy your time outdoors.

It will be hard to stay away from the golden sand beaches, where you’ll be accompanied by many other snowbirds looking for a winter getaway. And the water is always great for swimming or sunbathing on the sand.

Hang out on the Wharf and check out some of the many holiday events hosted during the season. When you need a break from walking, Segway rentals and trails are the next best way to get around.

30: Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Only in frigid temperatures like in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can you experience some of the most unique attractions at this top US winter vacation spot.

Prepare for the weather because there are some natural spectacles that you don’t want to miss out on, even if the temperature drops below 0°F.

The Upper Peninsula should be high on your list for best places to visit in winter in the USA, thanks to attractions found across the peninsula.

So, grab your ice picks and venture to the Eben Ice Caves, where you can explore inside the caves, and more popularly, go ice climbing.

If you’ve been practicing walking with snowshoes, a hike along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will put you to the test. Or choose a route that leads to Munising Falls to see a rare look at frozen waterfalls.

When you’re ready to take your Upper Peninsula vacation to new heights, visit Big Powderhorn Mountain or Porcupine Mountain for some of the peninsula’s best ski areas.