As we see it, there are only two types of winter travelers – those who want to escape the cold, and those who want to embrace the cold. Typically, the first group enjoys activities such as lounging next to a pool, relaxing at a spa, or hiking under the hot sun, while the second group would prefer to drink hot cocoa by the fire, try their hand at skiing, and maybe even stay at a cabin surrounded by a light dusting of snow.
No matter what group you consider yourself to be a part of, there’s plenty to do during the winter months around the United States for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking to escape or embrace the cold during the upcoming months, here are some of the best winter getaways in the country:
Getaways For Those Looking to Embrace the Cold
Breckenridge, Colorado
If you enjoy hitting the slopes during the winter months, Breckenridge is the perfect vacation destination for you. This quaint Colorado town is known for skiing and snowboarding, which draws in a whopping 1.5 million tourists each winter. Other fun activities that you can try include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, fly fishing, and exploring the town’s numerous different shops and restaurants.
Anchorage, Alaska
Alaska’s largest city has no shortage of things to see and do, especially during the wintertime. Founded in 1914, Anchorage is considered by many to be a must-see tourist destination. Some of the most popular attractions in Anchorage include dogsledding, ice fishing, ice climbing, snowshoeing, winter biking, wildlife viewing, and our favorite activity, gazing at the breathtaking Northern Lights.
Big Sky, Montana
Hidden within the Madison Range in the southwest of Montana, Big Sky is a true gem of a vacation destination. Though Big Sky offers all of the traditional winter activities such as snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing, there are also plenty of unique activities here that you won’t find anywhere else. Here, you could try riding one of the longest zip lines in the Yellowstone Region, or maybe even go out and explore the snow-covered mountains on a sno-go bike.
Getaways For Those Looking to Escape the Cold
Keywest, Florida
If you’re someone who would rather relax by the ocean and feel the warm sun beating against your face during the winter months rather than being surrounded by snow, you’re going to love Key West, Florida. The southernmost point in the continental United States is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason. Here, you can sail the seas during a romantic sunset cruise, view stunning holiday lights while on the Holiday Lights and Sights Tour, or even try out some of Key West’s famous key lime pie.
Palm Springs, California
Founded in 1938, Palm Springs is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without being surrounded by freezing cold weather (the average temperature in Palm Springs during the winter is 70°F). No matter if you want to explore nature by taking a hike to a stunning waterfall oasis at Tahquitz Canyon, be pampered at one of the many outdoor spas, or simply just explore all of what this charming town has to offer, trust us when we say once you arrive in Palm Springs, you’re never going to want to leave.
Maui, Hawaii
Our last winter getaway is another fan favorite with over 3 million people visiting this remarkable island each year. Home to breathtaking views and world famous beaches, Maui has so much to explore. During the winter months, you can try out surfing in the ocean-blue waters, dine on delicious farm-to-table meals, or gander at the majestic migrating humpback whales (usually only seen during the winter months).
The United States contains so many incredible getaways that you may not have even known about, and all you have to do is get in your car or hop on a plane, and get ready to explore! As always, no matter where you plan on traveling to, stay safe, stay healthy, and most importantly, enjoy yourself.
