Escape the scorching temperatures as the season changes, and enter a winter paradise down south in the United States! Winter is the best time to go on a vacation, with the cooler weather, smaller crowds, and beautiful falling snow! If you can’t decide on where to go and what to do, we’ve compiled a list for you that will help you make your decision! You can make your trip unique and fun at the best themed hotels in the country, or you can rough it up and explore the states with RV and campervan rentals. Try all the listed suggestions or just a few, and see what some of the best winter vacation spots in the US have to offer.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 05, 2024.
1. Naples, Florida
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
For those looking to escape the harsh winters in the North, Naples offers an excellent escape. Even though you might feel a little chill, the weather is warm enough to enjoy beach visits and sunbaths. But the outdoors isn’t the only exciting thing here. In December, Naples hosts a Christmas Walk and Lighting Ceremony where local restaurants come together to provide al fresco dining on the roads of Naples before the tree-lighting in the Sugden Plaza.
Moreover, Art in the Park, a regular event by the Naples Art Institute, brings together the art community by hosting fairs.
2. Camden, Maine
Ski enthusiasts must have heard about the Camden Snow Bowl. Not only does it host the National Toboggan Championship each year, where the finest teams compete in a race to see who’s the fastest snowboarder, but it also offers glimpses of the ocean right from the ski grounds. In fact, it is the only ski resort with an ocean view on the east coast! And that is exactly what makes Camden a popular winter vacation spot in the USA.
But, if you’re not a ski or a sports enthusiast, fret not because there’s more to do here than just skiing. You can check out Christmas by the Sea, a December holiday festival where people come together to enjoy parades, carriage rides, Christmas sales, and a tree-lighting event in Harbor Park.
3. Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the states that meet a freezing winter, with temperatures around -30°F (approximately -34°C). The state is popular for winter activities like ice fishing and snowmobile derbies. If you’re going for a quiet, White Christmas with your family or closest friends, Wisconsin is a great spot to rent a mountainside cabin.
Who wouldn’t enjoy waking up to the snow falling down, with hot cocoa in hand, all while in your pajamas and gathered around the Christmas tree to open presents? That’s a holiday to remember, for sure.
4. Colorado
If you’re planning for a more active winter vacation someplace where it does not get too cold, Colorado is always a reliable destination. This state’s winter temperatures can range from 5°F to 60°F (-15°C to 15°C). It’s an outdoorsman’s paradise all year round.
For all winter-related activities, especially skiing and snowboarding, you can’t go wrong with taking your loved ones up to Aspen. Colorado isn’t just a place for the family to have fun, because it’s a popular spot for dogsledding too!
5. Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska
For a magical winter holiday, may we suggest witnessing the beauty of aurora borealis? If that sounds like an exciting Christmas, pack your bags for Fairbanks, Alaska. This winter destination often has a display of giant ice sculptures and is a popular area for dog mushing sports.
Another winter spot that’s worth visiting in Alaska is Anchorage. Its inlet location allows for warm currents and air streams from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in pleasant weather even when it’s well into wintertime. Anchorage is a great area for snowmobiling, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
6. Idaho
Idaho may not be one of the most popular choices when it comes to winter vacations, but today we’re introducing just how much fun you can have here. The state meets moderate winter months with an average of 30°F, with the lowest being 0°F or below but only a few days out of the year.
The state’s thermal hot springs and winter carnivals are some excellent reasons to enjoy the holiday season here if you don’t care much for snow sports, although Idaho does have its fair share of ski resorts!
7. Big Sky, Montana
Heading up to Montana this winter? One of the best places for this season is Big Sky. This popular resort and community is notable for its downhill bicycle trails and ski slopes. It is about 14 miles (24 kilometers) northwest of Yellowstone National Park. What better way to appreciate the snow-capped mountains than a scenic lift ride, right? So consider this place for your next winter excursion and experience activities like recreational snowmobiling, ice skating, and a whole lot more!
8. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The winter season is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park, especially if you’re not too fond of crowds. Winter means fewer people and more time to enjoy and take in the scenery!
In case you’re aiming to visit this place, you can expect activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Make the most out of your trip, too, by signing up for a professionally guided tour. Do take note of road closures in some gateways during the winter.
9. New York City, New York
Who doesn’t love a New York City Christmas? Streets covered in snow, skyscraper lights illuminating the entire city? Now, that is a sight to see.
They say that NYC’s a great place to celebrate the holidays when you’re by your lonesome because you’ll never feel alone in this city. But we say that it’s a winter vacation destination for anyone who enjoys being surrounded by all things vibrant and festive! Be serenaded by the carolers at Central Park, welcome the Christmas spirit at the Rockefeller tree lighting ceremony, or even witness the ball drop at Times Square on New Year’s Eve. It’s always a wonderful winter season in New York City!
10. Santa Fe, New Mexico
One of the less popular winter destinations from this list is Santa Fe. This means you get to experience the best of the city without having to deal with a crowd! We reckon it’s the best time to visit Santa Fe, in all its quiet glory.
The city is a culinary paradise of its own during winter, with Spanish and Native American-inspired restaurants in full swing, serving hungry customers after a day of adventure. There are ski resorts in Santa Fe, but if you prefer an unusual winter holiday, try exploring Canyon Road and Santa Fe Plaza, which are both a feast for the eyes come wintertime.
11. Mount Hood, Oregon
Care for a quieter winter season out and about in nature? One of the best destinations in the US surely is Mount Hood in Oregon. It is the state’s highest mountain and is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of Portland.
Downhill skiing, sledding, and mountaineering are some of the most popular activities in the area. Although it is perfectly fine to just sit by the nearby tranquil lakes, camp out with your loved ones, and admire Mount Hood from afar.
12. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
If you’re battling whether or not Washington State is your winter destination this year, let Mount Rainier National Park sway you to say yes! In fact, this national park is best visited in the winter when snow sports are in full swing. The stark white scenery is just the sweet cherry on top.
You are welcome to sign up for activities such as ranger-guided snowshoeing, sledding, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Winter camping is another great experience to have at the national park too.
13. Arizona
Arizona is one of the best vacation spots in the US and is an even more wonderful state to visit during the winter with its milder temperatures, compared to its hot summers. However, temperatures can vary greatly from day to night, averaging around 70°F (around 21°C) in the day to freezing temperatures at night in desert areas. Don’t worry though, as there are still plenty of things to do!
Things to do in Arizona
In the winter season, the mountain tops in Sedona are covered with pristine white snow and the skies are clear blue, perfect for a hot air balloon ride. Explore Sedona’s wildlife, valleys and canyons from an aerial view, accompanied by a listening tour from the guide during the four-hour ride. Watch the sunrise as you lift off into the air and enjoy a lovely champagne picnic when you land. It would definitely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t forget! Tickets are priced at 225 USD for adults, inclusive of a free DVD. Reservations are available on the Red Rock Balloon Adventures page.
Red Rock Balloon Adventures
Website: Red Rock Balloon Adventures
Ski and snowboard at the White Mountains
Get away from the deserts and go into the mountains, where you’ll find an abundance of snow, ideal for skiing and snowboarding! During the winter, the White Mountains can get pretty chilly, with plenty of snowfall. Some ski resorts you might want to check out are Bretton Woods, one of the largest in the area and Cannon Mountain, one of the highest.
Bretton Woods
Website: Bretton Woods
Cannon Mountain
Website: Cannon Mountain
Hike at the Grand Canyon
The winter is probably the best time to head to the Grand Canyon as the weather isn’t too sweltering. You can hike with the cool breeze on your skin and if you’re lucky, you can catch the amazing view of the canyon dusted with snow, as well as wildlife such as mule deer and bald eagles. As it’s not possible for a one-day hiking trip, hikers can rest at places like the Phantom Ranch lodging facility or camp at Bright Angel Campground, where a permit is required.
Grand Canyon
Website: Grand Canyon
Where to stay in Arizona
Arizona Snowbowl
One of the largest beginner terrains in the west, Snowbowl offers a gentle slope with two chairlifts and surface conveyors that is ideal for beginners to try out. Ski Lift Lodge and Cabins provide the nearest lodging to Snowbowl, not to mention that it’s an hour away from the Grand Canyon! There are a variety of options such as cabins, motel-style rooms, suites and studios to stay in, and they all come with a complimentary breakfast, Internet access, and a cable television.
Ski Lift Lodge and Cabins
Address: 6355 North Highway 180, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-774-0729
Website: Ski Lift Lodge and Cabins
Fairfield Inn and Suites
Arizona Snowbowl also partners with certain hotels in Flagstaff, offering a free stay package with a purchase of two full-day adult lift tickets for 158 USD. Just request “stay free” package (subject to availability) and select the dates you wish to stay in and you will receive the tickets at the check-in counter. Packages sell out fast so be sure to make advanced reservations just in case! One of these hotels is Fairfield Inn and Suites which can be reserved via booking.com. If you just want to explore the area and not go to the Snowbowl, it’s also perfectly fine! Rooms cost around 130 USD per night, with a continental breakfast provided!
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Flagstaff East
Address: 1000 North Country Club Drive
8.51 km (5.3 mi) from Walnut Canyon National Monument
Sedona
Situated on top of Airport Mesa, Sky Ranch Lodge overlooks Sedona’s famous red rocks and provides guests with free Internet access, a cable television, an outdoor pool and a garden. You can request for a room with a fireplace and a balcony to experience scenic views, or you can hike or tour the area in a jeep! A night at the lodge can cost around 140 USD for a room for two.
If you’re looking for something with a new perspective, why not try glamping? Perfectly designed to accommodate couples, enjoy an extraordinary experience at night alone at the creek under the stars and moon, and enjoy a direct view of Cathedral Rock. The tent comes with a king size mattress and a personal outdoor bathroom. Although there is no kitchen, a cooler is provided to store food items and there are plenty of restaurants nearby! In the winter, it gets a little chilly but there is special insulation in the tent, as well as a duvet, a heated blanket and an electric fireplace to keep you warm. A night in this cozy glamping tent costs 125 USD.
Sedona, Arizona, United States
47.22 km (29.4 mi) from Walnut Canyon National MonumentSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
amazing views comfortable stay with just enough amenitiesthe shower space is gorgeous with an open air topit was a very hot day so the air conditioner was very welcomedcozy and quiet place with excellent viewi ate breakfast on the patio furniture enjoying the view of the river and cathedral rock; so peacefulCleanliness:
beautiful property with clean and comfy accommodationsthis place is super pretty and cleanthe yurt was extra clean and so well decoratedthe yurt was clean cozy and the little details made it very specialthe yurt is exactly as it looks in the photos it’s clean and very comfortableHost:
the stream was so beautiful to listen to at night and kc was a wonderful hostcheck in was so easy and our hosts were very accommodatingkc was responsive to all of our questionschristian was very communicative and made sure we had what we needed for our staythe hosts were very responsive to the only minor concern i had which was quickly addressedRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and so much personalityawesome location for exploring oak creek and cathedral rocklocation is amazing style points on the set upall in all a beautiful location with quaint accommodationsreally lovely location with beautiful views
14. Southern California
In southern California, there is plenty of rainfall in the winter. Temperatures can go up to 66°F (around 19°C) and dip to 46°F (around 8°C) but are unlikely to be freezing. Don’t expect to see snow though, unless you’re up in the mountains!
Things to do in Southern California
Stargaze at Mojave National Preserve
In winter, the nights are longer and the sky is less cloudy, making it the best time for stargazing! Get away from the bustling city and into the desert, where you might be able to catch a glimpse of the milky way at night. Join an astronomy group or arrange your own and head to Mojave National Preserve in the late afternoon to enjoy the sight of sand dunes, Joshua tree forests and bright flower fields while waiting for the day to turn to dusk.
Mojave National Preserve
Website: Mojave National Preserve
Parade of Lights at San Diego
No money to spend on winter activities? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Every December, the city of San Diego celebrates the spirit of winter with a magnificent Parade of Lights. The parade takes place on two successive Sundays during the month, showcasing more than 80 boats decorated according to the year’s theme. After the show, spectators are treated to an amazing firework display over the water. Seaport Village is one of the places where you can catch the parade passing by!
San Diego’s Parade of Lights
Website: San Diego’s Parade of Lights
Whale watch at Long Beach
Winter is the best time for whale watching as, during this period, gray whales migrate along the California coastline to Mexico. Most whales swim close to the shore, making them easy to spot from a distance, but to make your experience truly unforgettable, perhaps booking a whale watching tour is a better idea. You can get up close and personal with the whales and might even chance upon other marine wildlife such as dolphins and sea lions! Some tour options include Harbour Breeze Cruises and Spirit Cruises, which set sail from Long Beach. Ticket prices vary for different cruises.
Harbour Breeze Cruises
Website: Harbour Breeze Cruises
Spirit Cruises
Website: Harbour Breeze Cruises
Where to stay in Southern California
Wrightwood Mountain High
Wrightwood Mountain High consists of three resorts in one: East, West, and North, with terrains of different levels that you can choose from and a free shuttle service that connects all of them. You can definitely enjoy winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing at the resort and participate in the annual competitions held there! It has various lodging affiliates, offering accommodations such as cabins, vacation homes or even motels, just take your pick!
Wrightwood Mountain Resort
Website: Wrightwood Mountain Resort
Private Studio Retreat
You can also opt for a studio retreat in the woods, minutes away from the resort. Be accompanied by the sound of nature while exploring along the local hiking trails, or engage in zip lining and frisbee golf. Take a step back from social media as there won’t be access to wireless Internet. However, you can use the kitchen and make yourself a cup of tea or coffee! Bring along some DVDs to enjoy movies on the television with your family and friends. All of these can be found at a price of only 100 USD per night!
Wrightwood, California, United States
568.56 km (353.3 mi) from Walnut Canyon National MonumentTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds were super comfy tooso so cute fireplace heater is adorablegreat space but would've appreciated a bit more shower amenitieswe had the best stay ever room is a modern styleit is roomy and the beds are pretty comfortableCleanliness:
clean and tidysparkly clean and the bed is very comfortableit’s cozy clean modern and stylishit was a very cozy clean and comfortable placewas clean and a good space to spend a couple daysHost:
host send easy directions and easy accessmae ans aaron are lovely hostgreat studio and kind hostsgreat place to stay our hosts were super friendly accommodating and definitely made us feel at homeowner was responsive easy to get a hold of and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
only a 5 minute drive away so i’d say location was perfectgreat location great get away for 2nice location at the edge of neighborhoodsuper convenient and chill locationsuch a cute place with super thoughtful touches
Bear Mountain Resort
Bear Mountain Resort partners with the Big Bear Lake Visitors Bureau to offer various lodging options, such as hotels, vacation rentals and budget-friendly cabins and motels. One such lodging is Big Bear 4 Season, which has resort cabins or cottages at prices varying from 200 - 300 USD. Facilities include a tennis court, a garden, a barbecue pit, a cable television, a kitchen, a bathroom and even a sun terrace, perfect for a family stay-cation! There are plenty of activities to do, such as skiing, snowboarding and even tubing at the nearby Bear Mountain Resort, or cycling and hiking in the surrounding areas. You can make reservations at booking.com and don’t forget to look out for price discounts!
Big Bear 4 Seasons Three
Address: 439 Jeffries Road
503.88 km (313.1 mi) from Walnut Canyon National Monument
15. South Carolina
Similar to Arizona, South Carolina has very hot summers and milder winters, with average temperatures of 60 °F (16 °C) in the day and dropping to 38 °F (3 °C) at night. There is also little or no snowfall across the state and freezing rain is much more common during the winter.
Things to do in South Carolina
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
A long-time holiday tradition, the Carolina Carillon Christmas Parade is considered the official holiday parade of South Carolina. It features a different theme every year. Spend Christmas with your family at the parade while watching the beautifully decorated floats pass by and singing to the music of performing groups and marching bands. Of course, don’t forget to wave to Santa! Catch the start of the parade at Gervais and Bull Streets and follow along as it continues to Park Street.
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
Address: 1111 Parkside Drive, Columbia, SC 29203
Website: Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade
Bring your family or spend time as a couple during the festive season at Brookgreen Gardens, where thousands of candles and lights light up the garden walkways and joyful carols fill the air. The event takes place three nights per week in December and will go on rain or shine. Watch a huge fir tree be illuminated by a hundred thousand lights as the day turns into night. Purchase tickets in advance at 20 USD for adults and 12 USD for children above four years old.
Night of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
Opening Hours: Various days, 3pm - 10pm
Address: 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
What better way to spend your holidays than riding a horse while watching the sunrise or sunset? Locations change according to the season, so during the winter, from 1 November to 28 February, seaside rides along the coast of Myrtle Beach are available. Don’t worry if you’re new to this, the horses have been trained well and there will be someone to guide you. If you have prior experience riding horses, you can even trot your horse into the shoreline. A beach ride for an hour and a half costs 85 USD and reservation is required.
Horseback riding of Myrtle Beach
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am - 8pm
Website: Horseback riding of Myrtle Beach
Where to stay in South Carolina
Devils Fork State Park
In northwestern South Carolina near Lake Jocassee lies Devils Fork State Park, where you can rent a cabin or a villa in the winter. There are twenty fully furnished villas for you to choose from, inclusive of linens, kitchenware, heating, air conditioning, a picnic table and a charcoal grill. Rentals must typically be booked for a minimum of two nights, but during peak periods, they must be booked for at least a week. It’s best to make your reservation in advance to secure a villa, either by phone or online. A two-bedroom cabin or villa which can accommodate up to four people can cost around 100 - 300 USD per night, including taxes and reservation costs.
Devils Fork State Park
Address: 161 Holcombe Circle Salem, SC 29676
Website: Devils Fork State Park
Amazingly Serene Mountain Getaway
If cabins or villas aren’t really your thing, you can opt to stay in a cozy cottage near the park instead. Airbnb has a list of cottages to choose from, such as one located at the Cherokee Foothills. Nestled in the mountain area, you can catch wild deer passing by the property. The house accommodates up to six people, which is great for a family getaway! The amenities provided include free Internet access, a television, a kitchen, a washing machine and free parking on the premises. These cottages cost just 148 USD per night!
Salem, South Carolina, United States
2590.27 km (1609.6 mi) from Walnut Canyon National MonumentAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
inside everything was clean and comfortablehouse was very clean set in forested area-saw rabbits red shouldered hawk in yardthe house was clean and had everything we needed for our staymichelle’s place is very clean and comfortable and has everything you could needHost:
michelle was such an excellent hostmichelle was a great host and very good with communicationthe hosts are very responsive and concerned that your stay is enjoyablemichelle was very helpful and accommodating throughout the booking and the staythe hostess was very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great trip awesome location super close to the boat ramp for a great jocassee weekendthe location near the state park was perfectquiet peaceful and close to many outdoor activitiesmichelle was helpful and attentive thanks the location was perfectthe location is perfect for hiking in the salem area
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Lake Greenwood
Lake Greenwood Log Cabin Rentals offers nightly or weekly winter lodging near the lake. Built from red cypress wood and equipped with high vaulted ceilings, the log cabins can keep you warm from the cold as you admire the lake from within. Try your hand at fishing right at your doorstep, as there are various species of fishes that can be spotted, such as bluegill, perch and mud cats. Cabins are inclusive of amenities such as a kitchen, a washing machine, a dryer, a hot tub, a pool table and most importantly, wireless Internet access. Log cabins can accommodate up to ten people, with a minimum stay of two nights, priced at 165 USD per night during the winter months.
Lake Greenwood Log Cabin Rentals
Phone: 864-227-1472
Website: Lake Greenwood Log Cabin Rentals
Awesome stocked Lake Greenwood getaway
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, try Airbnb, as they have a lot more accommodation options you can choose from! For example, you can stay at a lake home that offers a porch with an impressive view and a dock which you can swim in. There are also kayaks, paddle boats and paddle boards for you to use, if you’re up for the cold waters in the winter. The lake home is stocked with linen, board games, kitchenware and a gas grill, with three bedrooms and extra twin mattresses for guests. They are priced at just 80 USD per night.
Cross Hill, South Carolina, United States
2690.21 km (1671.7 mi) from Walnut Canyon National MonumentAccommodates: 9
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi and cable were a great extracomfortable house and relaxing scenery as describedthe beds and bedding were so comfortable and nicebring your swim suits and sunscreen and be prepared for relaxation and fun on the lakeCleanliness:
everything was clean and comfortablethe house is very clean and comfyrelaxing clean and just as describedthe house was very clean and we had everything we neededthis home is clean well stocked and comfortableHost:
dawn was a great accommodating host with quick responses to our questions and needsdawn was an amazing host she was there to greet us and answer any questions we askeda great getaway and a wonderful hostdawn was a fantastic hostdawn was such a great host very understanding and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location perfect for our needsperfect place to spend time in the waterbeautiful location and prompt responses and continual contact for any issues encounteredplace was right on the lake and i enjoyed it immenselynice place right on the water quiet neighborhood
Pack your winter gear and get going!
Winter is a wonderful time to explore the country, with smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, you won’t have to worry about having a sticky and sweaty holiday! Remember to pack enough warm clothes and check the weather before your trip so you know where to catch some snow! Check out the activities listed here as some of them are only available for a limited period of time and celebrate the winter season with these fun outdoor activities!
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