Top US Winter Travel Destinations | LivingLesh

For most people, December is spent planning for the holidays. But if you’re anything like me, you’re already thinking about what comes next – the dark, dreary months of winter. After all of the celebrations and festivities of the holidays, the rest of winter can feel pretty bleak and depressing. That’s why I always like to have a post-holiday trip lined up – cure the winter blues and give me something to look forward to. There are so many fantastic US winter travel destinations, and I’m excited to share a few of my favorites with you here on the blog.

Everyone likes something different when it comes to planning a winter vacation. Some people like to fully embrace the season, enjoying a snowy trip with cocoa, sledding, and nights cozied up by the fire. Other people are dying to get away from the cold, and want a winter vacation that lets them escape the winter vibes for a bit – think sun, sand, and all things tropical. Whether you want a traditionally winter vacation or want to enjoy warmer weather, there are so many great spots in the US to travel to this winter. Keep reading to discover my favorite winter travel destinations in the USA!

MY TOP US WINTER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Are you trying to decide on the perfect destination for your upcoming winter trip? Whether you’re ready to embark on a snowy adventure or want to beat the chill of the season and relax in the warm sunshine, I’m here to help you plan the winter vacation of your dreams with my ultimate list of US winter travel destinations.

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1. Bend, Oregon

If you’re looking for a snowy wonderland, you can’t beat a trip to Bend, Oregon. The first time that I visited Bend, I was a little nervous to get outside my comfort zone and experience so many adventurous things, but I ended up having the best time – I can’t wait to go back! You can take part in so many outdoor winter adventures in Bend, from skiing to snowboarding to snowmobiling to showshoeing and more. You can even explore the caves! But there are so many other things to do in Bend, too – try world-class spa treatments, visit the last Blockbuster for a true dose of nostalgia, or just enjoy some great shopping and dining. No matter what you enjoy, there’s something for you in Bend, and it’s such a beautiful spot to experience during the winter months. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the top US winter travel destinations!

2. Key West, Florida

One of my favorite warm winter vacations will always be Key West, Florida. It’s the perfect place if you’re trying to plan a few warm winter getaways as the temperatures stay in the 70s all winter long. You’ll enjoy copious sunshine and escape the frigid winter temperatures for a bit – which, as a Philly girl, always sounds good to me. The Florida Keys are stunningly beautiful, and there is so much to do and see – enjoy gorgeous beaches, waterfront dining, or go on a few adventures – parasailing, anyone?? If you’re traveling as a family, you can even do a road trip all throughout Florida. The kiddos are sure to love Orlando with all of the theme parks, and parents will love traveling down the coast and enjoying the dining, shopping, and beautiful views everywhere you turn.

3. Wilmington, North Carolina

If you want to experience the perfect southern getaway, Wilmington is one of my favorite places to pick. While it’s not a tropical vacation, you’ll still experience milder temperatures during the winter months, making it a great in-between destination for travelers who don’t want to deal with snow and freezing temperature but aren’t looking for hot weather, either. You’ll simply want to pack lots of layers and enjoy all that Wilmington has to offer! Visit their beautiful beaches, explore downtown Wilmington and the Riverwalk, or visit the museums, aquarium, or local gardens. Plus, so many of your favorite shows and movies were filmed in Wilmington, and it can be so much fun to visit the iconic filming locations for yourself. Fans of One Tree Hill, Dawson’s Creek, A Walk to Remember and more will have the best time!

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree is a brutal place to visit in the summer, with temperatures often rising above 100 degrees. Winter, however, is the perfect time to more comfortably explore this iconic national park. The temperatures are mild, making winter the best season to adventure on long hikes through the unique terrain of Joshua Tree. Just be careful and check the forecast in advance – desert weather is unpredictable, and while Joshua Tree often averages above 60 degrees in the winter, it can also experience snow. You want to make sure that you’re prepared!

5. New York City, New York

There’s nothing like the city that never sleeps, and winter is one of the most magical times to experience New York. It’s famously one of the best places to visit during the holidays, so if you can, plan a trip for the month of December – there are beautiful decorations everywhere you can turn, you can visit Santa at Macy’s, go ice skating, or experience the best holiday shopping there is. Even after the holidays are over, wintertime in the city is something everyone should experience at least once. You’ll want to make sure to pack plenty of layers (I love this winter coat!), because the city can get incredibly cold in the winter, but trust me – it’s worth it to enjoy the magic of NYC. Shop, dine, explore, catch a Broadway show – there’s always something to do or see in New York.

6. Palm Springs, California

Are you craving some warm weather? Palm Springs is a perfect destination for the winter months – after all, who doesn’t need a little California sunshine during the darkest time of the year? It’s warm all year round in Palm Springs, with over 300 days of sunshine and blue skies. There are over 100 hiking trails to explore in the area, from stunning canyons to beautiful waterfalls. The botanical gardens are always beautiful, and there are tons of festivals and community events keeping the area alive all winter long.

7. Honolulu, Hawaii

Want to plan the true winter getaway? It’s time to embrace the island life and head to Honolulu, Hawaii. The endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, and warm temperatures (say goodbye to snow and hello to 80 degree days!) are calling, and there’s no better time than the gloomiest days of the year to enjoy some the best of the tropics. Surf, snorkel, and sunbathe before winding down with great food and shopping. Plus, explore the area to discover the rich history of Hawaii. It’s one of the most stunning places in the United States – you’ll want to go back again and again.(Need some packing inspiration? I’ve got you covered! Check out my ultimate tropical vacation packing list for everything you’ll need.)

8. Vail, Colorado

One of the most iconic places to visit during the winter months, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Vail, Colorado. While Vail is predominantly known for drawing in skiers and snowboarders from all across the country, there is even more to do in the area than you might initially expect. Vail is a resort town, so there’s endless access to spas, fine dining, and shopping. You can go for a gondola ride, or go brewery hopping at the many craft breweries in the area. Plus, there are so many unique activities – explore Vail Village, go snow tubing, explore the charming Minturn area, or visit the breathtaking ice castles. There’s a reason it’s one of the top US winter travel destinations – a trip to Vail is an adventure that you’ll never forget.

9. Portland, Maine

Winter in Portland, Maine may not be for the faint of heart, but trust me – there are few places in the world more beautiful. You’ll enjoy the quintessential winter experience when you visit Portland in the winter season, from snow-lined streets and nights by the fire to outdoor adventures and breathtaking icy views. Portland has all of the small town charm to make you feel right at home, whether you wander into a local bar or visit the shops and bakeries. Play in the snow, go cross-country skiing, or just enjoy the quiet, peaceful beauty of Maine in the winter. Hot cocoa, anyone?