Ready for the holidays? Let’s have a look at our favorite US winter destinations.
12. Santa Fe, New Mexico
A Southwestern gem, Santa Fe is perfect for winter travelers who love both culture and snow. With its unique Pueblo-style architecture, this artsy city also offers great skiing in the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Wander through the historic Plaza, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and warm up with spicy New Mexican cuisine.
11. Whitefish, Montana
For those seeking adventure, Whitefish offers world-class skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort and access to the beauty of Glacier National Park. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy snowmobiling, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing, while the charming downtown provides plenty of cozy spots to relax.
10. Vail, Colorado
Vail is synonymous with luxury winter vacations, thanks to its expansive ski resort, picturesque European-style village, and premium dining experiences. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, or indulging in a hot tub while surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
9. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe offers a stunning alpine winter wonderland, perfect for both thrill-seekers and those who want to relax. With top-notch skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Heavenly and Squaw Valley, visitors can also explore snowshoeing trails, sledding, and ice skating. The lake’s year-round beauty is breathtaking, even covered in snow.
8. Park City, Utah
Home to the Sundance Film Festival, Park City is more than just a celebrity hotspot. It’s one of the top ski destinations in the country, featuring the largest ski area in the U.S. Additionally, you can visit the historic Main Street, full of boutiques and high-end restaurants, or go snowmobiling, dog sledding, and tubing.
7. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is renowned for its luxurious winter experience, from its four premier ski mountains to its exclusive après-ski scene. It’s a paradise for skiers, but even if you don’t hit the slopes, you can enjoy upscale dining, world-class shopping, or visit the Aspen Art Museum.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
For a milder winter escape, Charleston offers Southern charm, with its beautifully preserved historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and antebellum mansions. Winter is an ideal time to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, making it great for walking tours, fine dining, and coastal exploration.
5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Nestled against the Teton Range, Jackson Hole is a dream for winter adventurers. The rugged beauty of the landscape is perfect for skiing at the renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, wildlife safaris in nearby Grand Teton National Park, or soaking in the Granite Hot Springs.
4. Big Sky, Montana
For those looking to avoid crowds, Big Sky offers pristine powder and uncrowded slopes. With over 5,800 skiable acres, it’s a skier’s paradise. Beyond the slopes, visitors can snowshoe through the Gallatin National Forest, take a snowmobile tour, or visit Yellowstone National Park, just an hour away.
3. Leavenworth, Washington
This charming Bavarian-style town turns into a magical winter village during the holiday season. With the Cascade Mountains as a backdrop, Leavenworth is known for its Christmas lights, winter festivals, and outdoor activities such as sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, and tubing.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock formations covered in a light dusting of snow offer a striking winter landscape. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet winter getaway with mild temperatures. Visitors can enjoy hiking, jeep tours, and spiritual retreats, as well as stargazing under Sedona’s dark skies.
1. New York City, New York
There’s nothing like the magic of New York City in winter. From the dazzling holiday lights and window displays to ice skating at Rockefeller Center, the city offers endless winter activities. Bundle up and explore iconic landmarks like Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Broadway shows. Don’t forget the New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square!
These twelve destinations offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and winter beauty, making them perfect for your next winter travel escape.