10+ Awesome Winter Getaways in the United States

Whether you’re like me and love winter or would prefer to never see snow – I think we can all agree on winter getaways! Whether you love the snow-capped mountains in New England or prefer to flock to the sun – here are ten Awesome Ideas for Winter Getaways in the United States.

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Lincoln, New Hampshire

Explored by Nichole of Nichole the Nomad

One of the best places to spend a winter getaway in New England is Lincoln, New Hampshire. Lincoln has something to offer for everyone, from skiing to ice climbing to exploring ice castles, so pack your warmest clothes and get ready for a fun-filled getaway!

If you love skiing and snowboarding, Loon Mountain is one of the best ski resorts in New Hampshire, offering over 28 miles of trails on 370 skiable acres. Loon Mountain also has trails for snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Cannon Mountain is located close by and is the highest ski area with the longest vertical drop in New Hampshire. With over 97 trails on 285 skiable acres, Cannon Mountain is another fantastic mountain to ski and snowboard the day away on.

For those looking to winter hike, Lincoln is home to one of New Hampshire’s most beautiful state parks, Franconia Notch State Park, that offers incredible hiking trails for all levels. Experienced winter hikers can climb to New Hampshire’s 4,000 footers, including Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Liberty. For those looking for an easy and short hike, the trail to Artist Bluff is perfect and offers an incredible view overlooking Franconia Notch.

If you are looking to do something more relaxed, Lincoln is home to one of six Ice Castles in North America! The beautiful Ice Castle is made of thousands of icicles and rebuilt every year to allow visitors to explore the magnificent structure, sit on frozen thrones, walkthrough ice tunnels, and ride on ice slides. It is a magical place that everyone should add to their winter getaway bucket list!

Whether you are looking to ski the weekend away or relax by a fire overlooking mountains, Lincoln, New Hampshire is the perfect location for a winter getaway in the U.S!

Newport, Rhode Island

Explored by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

While Newport is typically seen as a summer destination due to the sailing nature of the town – it’s a great winter destination! Traveling in the off or shoulder season means that hotels and experiences are often cheaper and more affordable. Don’t forget that Newport is on an island – meaning it is colder than the mainland – so be sure to pack and dress in layers!

The stunning Cliff Walk is 3.5 miles of beaches and sea views alongside historical mansions. There are a few parking areas along the walk so you don’t have to do the whole thing if it’s too cold out. Be sure to check out the 40 steps to get closer to the water in a safe way!

There are so many things to do in Newport, even in the winter! Take a trolley tour of the mansions and learn about the history of this town. It dates back to the slave trade where Newport made rum which was sent to Africa. The slaves were sent to the south, and the south then sent sugar to the North. There is a small graveyard for the slaves (or ‘indentured servants’ as our tour guide said) near the bridge leading onto Newport.

You can take a tour of one of the mansions or a group if you’re into architecture. We opted for a trolley tour since we’re not big history people. It was really fun to see historical houses and even Jay Leno’s house!

New York City, New York

Explored by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

New York City in the winter is a magical destination. Cozy up with hot cocoa as you wander through the busy streets. Shopping through decorated windows, listening to live music in restaurants, while enjoying the twinkling lights of the city.

If you’re visiting in December, a stop at the famous Rockefeller Tree is a must. The size of the tree and the holiday atmosphere is enough to put any Grinch in the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to have some frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity III – made famous by the 2001 film Serendipity.

If you’re brave enough to visit for New Years Eve – the ball drop is quite the experience! We spent hours waiting outside to be ushered into a pen in the cold and wait for hours. Or you can splurge on a hotel night and avoid the crowds (but these fill up quickly). Please note that 2020 NYE Ball Drop is going to be primarily virtual.

You can find amazing deals on hotels and experiences in January and February since it’s lower travel time for the city!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Explored by Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

If you’re planning a winter getaway in the United States, one of the best winter travel destinations is Philadelphia. The historic city is located conveniently between Washington D.C. and New York City along I-95 and the Acela Express northeastern corridor. You can easily get there by air, rail, bus or road trip and navigating the city is just as simple. Philadelphia is well-serviced by public transportation and Uber.

Philadelphia has some winter activities like Blue Cross Riverrink. It’s an Olympic-sized, outdoor ice skating rink that overlooks the Delaware River and iconic Benjamin Franklin Bridge. The fun and festive winter spot has a chalet-style relaxation area where you can enjoy drinks after skiing. It also has an outdoor area with fire pits and entertainment.

If you need more delicious reasons to visit the city over winter,  Philadelphia foods are it. The city is home to some of America’s best regional foods. Everyone knows the cheesesteak and soft pretzel, but there are also high end restaurants. Visit the 13th Street Corridor to enjoy renowned venues like Jamonera, El Vez and Double Knot. 

Philadelphia is also full of world-class museums, which are a perfect indoor activity to escape the cold. There’s, of course, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the nearby Franklin Institute of Science, an interactive science museum. History lovers will also enjoy the Museum of the American Revolution and the countless historical sites that are open to the public in Philadelphia.

Washington, DC

Explored by Terri of Female Solo Trek

Even though the Smithsonian museums and major art museums are closed due to the pandemic, you can still enjoy Washington, DC in the winter. And if you are lucky to visit during a snowstorm, you can join a snowball fight and sled down the hill at the Washington Monument.

Our city founders had the vision to create a National Mall (America’s front yard). Stretching from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, it is the place to exercise and congregate even when the temperatures dip below 40 degrees F.

Rent a bike to explore the 4.3-mile loop quickly. Or put on your sneakers for a run. Pack a picnic lunch for an alfresco meal (if it is warm). Run up and down the museum steps to train. Strike up a yoga pose at the U.S. Reflecting Pool.

Several gardens remain open during COVID-19. Even in winter, there are flowers and bushes blooming at the U.S. Botanic Gardens. Across Independence Avenue, the Bartholdi Park is a secret garden for Washingtonians.

The Enid A. Haught gardens near the Smithsonian Castle is a favorite to browse through the Parterre or recite Chinese poetry in the Moongate Garden. While the National Gallery of Art and Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum are currently closed, you can still enjoy the outdoor sculpture gardens. In the winter, a blanket of snow transforms these works of art.

Savannah, Georgia

Explored by Erin of Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Winter provides a welcome respite from Savannah’s usual heat and humidity, and snow is such a rare event that you’re more likely to stumble upon a fake snow scene for a movie set than you are the real thing!

Winter temperatures are generally mild in Savannah and can vary between 40 to 75 degrees. Pack sweaters or lightweight jackets for cooler evenings, but you’ll likely find yourself shedding layers midday. Gloves and hats come in handy, but it’s a safe bet to leave your heavy winter coat at home.

The holiday décor starts early in Savannah; you might spot Christmas lights as early as mid-November. Don’t expect to see tacky yard balloons and garish displays in the Historic District, though! The decorating style is more traditional, with evergreen wreaths on doors and simple candles in the windows. It’s a very Dickens-style Christmas that even includes carolers strolling around downtown.

The Holiday Tour of Homes is one of the most popular seasonal events. It offers the opportunity to see some of Savannah’s prettiest homes decked out in holiday décor. Broughton Street also looks lovely during the holiday season, with string lights draped from one side of the street to the other and fanciful window displays at Paris Market and 24e Design. Finally, River Street is always a must-see when you’re in Savannah. The winter decor of Savannah mixed with warm weather makes this city a great winter destination in the U.S.

Make sure to visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, as their nativity scene is truly breathtaking and not to be missed!

Once the holidays end, you’ll find it very pleasant to explore the city during Savannah’s “off season”. January is traditionally the coldest month, but it’s not uncommon to find flowers blooming by the first week in February. The tulip trees are usually the first to sprout their giant pink blossoms throughout town.

Sarasota, Florida

Explored by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

My family has a few “snowbirds” meaning they live up north and when the first hint of snow comes, they flock to Florida. Who could really blame them? Spending half an hour cleaning snow off a car vs a ten minute walk to the beach? I’d take the beach any day! Sarasota is located on the gulf side of Florida, with calm waters and beautiful beaches.

There are plenty of places to eat in Sarasota, but a visit to the Rust Bucket Restaurant is a must. The friendly atmosphere paired with delicious American fare is a great find. Don’t worry about crowded beaches – there are plenty to go around – even in the winter months. However, be prepared for traffic, especially on the smaller roads closer to the beach – there are a lot of people avoiding the snow! Sarasota is a wonderful winter getaway in the U.S. – and you’ll probably come back with a tan!

Dallas, Texas

Explored by Bruna by Maps ‘N Bags

Anyone looking for an enjoyable winter getaway in the USA should consider Dallas, Texas.

While summers are scorching, winter in Dallas is mild because it is greatly influenced by the Gulf Coast, making the city a lovely and pleasant place for a wintertime getaway. After all, the average temperature in January rests in the range of 37 and 60 Fahrenheit. 

Despite the chilling weather, the culture and festivals will keep you warm and cozy throughout your vacation.

Some other activities that are especially pleasing in the winter are wine tasting, visiting Dallas’ incredible museums, or shopping till you drop. Better yet, bite more than you can chew! Since everything is bigger in Texas, you will want to get a nice meal in one of the steakhouses in town—they are sure to keep you warm!

Because the town translates the southern hospitality like few places out there, you will want to book your accommodation ahead of time and avoid last-minute annoyances. For instance, there are incredible Dallas Airbnbs where you can stay near most attractions and still have a local feel!

You can spend anywhere from a long weekend getaway to a full week in this lively city. Just pack your coat, scarf, and watch the waves roll in–that’s one of the best winter getaways in the U.S.!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Explored by Megan of Red Around the World

Jackson Hole, Wyoming in winter is a magical experience.  Even if you don’t love winter.  You just can’t beat the Tetons covered in 500 inches of snow.  While summer is the best time to visit if you want to do a lot of hiking, you can still get out and enjoy Grand Teton National Park in the winter.  If you do want to hike, snowshoeing is a great option.  You won’t be able to get to everything, but you can enjoy the Gros Ventre, Mosse-Wilson, Flagg Ranch, Death Canyon, and Jenny Lake.

Some other great things to do in Jackson in the winter are wildlife safaris, sleigh rides at the National Elk Refuge, wandering around the shops and galleries in town, and skiing/snowboarding at Snow King or Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.  If you want to hit the slopes but not on your feet, you can even go snow tubing at Snow King!  This is a fun activity for everybody.  Just make sure whatever you do you’re bundled up because it gets pretty cold.  Toe warmers will be your best friend.  Jackson and the Tetons in winter is one of the most amazing winter getaways in the US, for sure.

Sedona, Arizona

Explored by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

You can’t beat the desert for a perfect winter escape, and Sedona, Arizona is a simply magical place to visit when you’re craving sun-baked warmth. Fly into Phoenix or Las Vegas and then make the quick drive to Sedona to experience something truly special.

The highlights of Sedona are the stunning sandstone rock formations that surround the town. While you can let someone else take the wheel to drive you around the sandstone sights – check out the Pink Jeep Tours – to really see the red rocks in all their glory, you should explore the amazing hiking in Sedona. The Merry-Go-Round trail is an awesome winter hike (it doesn’t have any shade during the heat of the summer), and it offers truly spectacular views of Sedona.

When you’re ready for a little break from outdoor adventuring, check out the Tiaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village featuring cobblestone streets and stucco buildings housing art galleries, shops, and restaurants. And, though it might seem a little out there, you can experience the true energy of Sedona by visiting the vortexes, special sites where the energy of the earth is thought to be extra powerful.

After you spend some time soaking in the desert sun and wandering around Sedona, you might even forget that it’s winter!

San Francisco, California

Explored by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

A winter getaway watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean sounds like a dream come true! And it can be – in San Francisco. It’s a great city to escape the snow (since it rarely does that here) and the temperatures are mild. You’ll enjoy exploring the city without the crowds. Not only is there the traditional Christmas decorations throughout December, but you can also find incredible celebrations for the Chinese New Year and Vietnamese Tet Festival! Bonus: Winter is the best time to spot a sunset over the ocean!

Have a favorite winter getaway in the United States? Let me know!

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