Best Winter Vacations In The US
Wintertime in the US is from December to March, with the coolest month being February. And, as always, this season is one of the best times to take a well-deserved vacation.
The snow, the chilly winds, the hot cocoa, and the festive holiday at the end of the year make this season truly special— even magical.
Here are the 8 best winter vacation spots in the US, which will provide you and your family the sweetest memories!
#1. Mount Hood, Oregon
A little over an hour’s drive from Portland, Mount Hood is a magnet for tourists in wintertime. This dormant volcano rises 11,240 ft above sea level and looks regal in the heart of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Mount Hood transforms into a winter wonderland come wintertime. Think forest cabins, kid-friendly ski resorts, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and charming accommodations.
#2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
The Bryce Canyon National Park, with rock faces that look like vanilla ice cream dipped in pumpkin juice, is visually arresting come wintertime. A mere scenic drive through the park will greet you with alien-like spires blanketed with snow.
The 35,000-acre park is home to meadows, forests, and an impressively diverse wildlife. In the winter, you can pick any thrilling activities: snowmobiling, skating, skiing, hiking, ice skating, and sleigh riding, among others.
#3. Vail, Colorado
One of the world’s most famous skiing destinations for families, Vail is the place to be if skiing is all you want. Huddled in the foothills of the mountains, Vail is surrounded by immense virgin forests and slopes that span 5,000 acres.
Amidst the postcard-perfect scenery is a smattering of rustic lodges, shops, restaurants, and other lifestyle and dining options. As if that’s not enough, heated cobblestone streets snake in and out of Golden Park, Vail Village, and Lionshead. This vacation spot is a photographer’s dream.
#4. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston in wintertime turns dreamy and romantic. There are folks ice skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond, or strolling along the lovely neighborhoods covered in snow.
This is an awesome vacation spot if you are into history and scenery rather than activity. Boston, founded in 1630 (and home to Harvard University), is cluttered with museums that educate you on the city’s rich culture and history. You can also get toasty inside Harpoon Brewery for some craft beers.
#5. Cibola National Forest, New Mexico
Famous for the Sandia Peak Tramway, Cibola National Forest is another gorgeous winter destination. The world-renowned tram is the second longest tram on Earth— and the longest in entire North America.
As you take the tram up to 4,000 feet high, you will be treated to a rare panoramic view of Albuquerque. The Sandia Mountains look unreal for their staggering beauty. The mountains are blushed with pink— courtesy of potassium feldspar crystal deposits. And when the winter sunset hits the mountains, the pinkish color of the mountains becomes more vivid.
#6. Washington DC
No snow until January in Washington DC, but America’s capital city during wintertime is gloriously refreshing for its cool winds. This is one of the best places to exercise your passion for photography— and winter is the perfect season to take a picture of the White House, too!
The great thing about Washington is that almost all of its tourist attractions are huddled close together. Just in one day, you can stroll from your hotel in the CBD to visit the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, the Capitol Building, the Washington Memorial, and more.
#7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yes, the famous Yellowstone. A part of almost everyone’s bucket list, Yellowstone is an ethereal sight. Dotted with geothermal geysers and mud pots, springs and fumaroles, the national park has at least 10,000 hydrothermal features!
Campsites and lodges allow you to bask in nature’s grandeur. Winter, particularly, sees fewer crowds and tourists, which is the perfect time to visit.
#8. New Orleans, Louisiana
Indulge in New Orleans’ southern charm in wintertime, when the temperatures drop and the air is cool and pleasing. But it’s best to visit with a huge appetite, as New Orleans is famous for its food!
In between enjoying your gumbo, jambalaya, fried chicken, or beignets, explore the Bourbon Street, bayous, plantations, and the charming and cozy jazz clubs. And in winter, commercial areas are dressed in holiday cheer, which adds to the winter delight in this Louisiana city!
Dress For The Weather
Before heading out to the city of your choice for your winter vacation, check ahead for the weather. It can go as low as 3 degrees Celsius in some states, especially in February. Dress up in your best winter casual clothes to enhance your vacation photos.
