Courtesy of https://theplanetd.com/best-winter-vacations-in-the-us/
With so many great places to visit in the winter, there are no wrong answers. But to help you out, here’s a guide to the best winter vacations in the US.
Savannah, Georgia
With fewer tourists but as stunning as every other time of year, Savannah makes for one of the best winter getaways. The mild winter temperatures see the daily high never drop below the 60s, making it the perfect balance for those that love to rug up but still want to go explore. With your warm scarf wrapped around your neck, enjoy the crisp southern air as you wander down charming cobblestone boulevards, flanked by Antebellum mansions and moss-covered oaks.
During the day, take in the museums and captivating antique stores in the Historic District, visit some of the eerily beautiful cemeteries, or even make the trip to Tybee Island. At night try the selection of fabulous restaurants, embark on a ghost tour, or sample the happening nightlife.
Where to stay: River Street Inn
Asheville, North Carolina
Providing the mountains without the overwhelming snowfall, Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best winter vacations in the US. The town has boomed in recent years on the back of strong tourism and new residents. Within Asheville, you’ll find an array of activities along the French Broad River, from many local breweries to homegrown galleries in the River Arts District.
Stay cozy and explore the downtown area and such iconic locations like the Biltmore Estate or take advantage of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains for some adventurous outdoor activities. From Asheville, you’ll be able to reach the Smoky Mountains, where waterfalls tumble and the mist rises over the surrounding meadows before kicking back at one of the several beautiful local wineries.
Where to stay: The Inn on Biltmore Estate
Chicago, Illinois for Ice Skating
Becoming a frozen lakeside city in the winter months, Chicago may not be at the forefront of your plans for the winter holidays. But if you can embrace the flaws of Windy City, you’ll begin to see why it’s one of the best places to visit during the holiday season. Read more: The Best Things to Do in Chicago
There is an air of festivity that can easily warm your chilly bones, with many festivals and events that spread the cheer far and wide. Chicago is home to Winter Wonderfest, an annual winter carnival offering a buffet of fun experiences, along with art, food, and culture. Perhaps the highlight is ice skating in Millenium Park. In front of the incredible city skyline, glide across the surface with hundreds of others enjoying the community spirit that is so fervent at this time of year. Check out Top 10 Hot Spots to Eat in Chicago
Where to stay: Hotel Audrey
Now if you thought Chicago was cold…
Anchorage, Alaska
Come the middle of fall, tourism makes like the leaves and well, falls. With a sharp drop in temperature and daylight, Alaska in the winter sounds nuts for many people.
This is exactly why it’s the time to visit. Anchorage sees about five hours of sunlight during the winter season. But you know what that leaves room for, the spectacular Northern Lights. After experiencing that dazzling display, you’ll have your choice of exciting winter activities that you may not usually have the chance to do. Those include heading out to the lakes for ice fishing, joining an unforgettable dog sledding tour, or embarking on some cross-country skiing.
Where to stay: The Lakefront Anchorage
New York City, New York
When the snow falls over the bright lights of New York City, there are few more mesmerizing sights. New York is well designed for a winter visit. The city may feel enormous and never-ending, but all the major sites are just a quick subway ride away. Rug up and begin in Central Park, whose icy lakes glisten under the winter sun. Just like in Chicago, put on the ice skates and skirt around the park under the towering northern red oaks. Check out New York City Itinerary – 5 Days in New York and these Fun Facts about New York
From there, experience the best 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 giant Christmas Tree or wait around a few more days to take in the New Year in the heart of Times Square. Read: Christmas in New York – What to do in NYC for the Holidays
Check out our recommendations for Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets.
Top National Parks for a Winter Vacation
- Yellowstone National Park, Montana/Wyoming
- Joshua Tree National Park, California
- The Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Death Valley National Park, California
- Crater Lake National Park
Best Ski Resorts
- Vail, Colorado
- Big Sky, Montana
- Lake Tahoe
- Park City, Utah
- Stowe, Vermont
Best Warm Winter Vacations USA
- New Orleans, Lousiana
- Key West, Florida
- Sedona, Arizona
- Maui, Hawaii
- St. John, US Virgin Islands
- Austin, Texas
- San Diego, California