Whether you’re craving festive holiday fun, snowy adventures, or a warm escape, some of the best winter vacations can be found in the U.S. Dive into the season with these winter vacation suggestions that include enchanting holiday festivities, thrilling outdoor adventures, and warm destinations nearby, complete with must-see cities and can’t-miss activities.
For those who love a winter wonderland
One place to experience the magic of the festive season is in Aspen, Colorado. This picturesque winter playground boasts legendary snow-covered slopes and a lively holiday atmosphere. After a day on the hills, you can cozy up by the fire in your lodge or bundle up and explore downtown Aspen’s charming shops, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
For a more urban winter vibe, New York City also tops the list for winter enthusiasts. The city bursts with energy during the colder months, featuring vibrant holiday markets plus the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a show-stopping display of holiday decorations in Brooklyn. You can also ice skate under the glow of the world-famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and ring in the New Year in Times Square.
Culture-filled hotspots with holiday flair
For a festive, fun-filled getaway with mild weather, head to New Orleans, Louisiana in December, January or February. Here you can dive into the city’s rich history and take in the vibrant music scene. Winter highlights in New Orleans include:
Winter destinations for adventure seekers
For sports enthusiasts, California provides plenty of world-class skiing and snowboarding in the Mammoth and Lake Tahoe areas, with stunning alpine scenery and numerous ski resorts catering to every skill level. Beyond skiing, groups of all ages can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledding for a complete winter adventure in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Sun-kissed cities and sandy shores
As winter settles in, you may prefer a warm weather escape. Miami, Florida, dazzles with its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and diverse cultural attractions. During the day you can explore the Art Deco District and the Wynwood Walls street art museum, then spend the evening enjoying world-class dining and nightlife. Honolulu, Hawaii, offers a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences like a tour of historic Pearl Harbor. For a relaxing retreat, Palm Springs, California, is filled with luxury resorts, soothing spas, and mid-century modern architecture in a serene desert oasis.
Whether you’re drawn to festive city charms, snowy slopes, cultural vibrancy, or warm beaches, there’s a U.S. winter vacation spot for everyone. Embrace the season and create lasting memories with a getaway just around the corner
