Niña •Dec 16, 2025Back to ArticlesNiña •Dec 16, 2025
The 12 Best Winter Vacation Destinations in the US
Niña •Dec 16, 2025Winter travel in the US isn’t defined by any one thing. It could mean snow-covered mountain towns, quiet coastal escapes, sun-warmed deserts, or festive cities that come alive once the temperature drops.
The best winter vacation destinations in the US aren’t defined by cold alone, but by contrast: warmth where you least expect it, stillness where summer is loud, and experiences that only exist once the season turns.
This guide highlights 12 destinations that truly shine in winter. Some are built around snow, others around sunshine. All of them offer a reason to travel during the colder months, and the kind of setting that makes winter feel intentional rather than inconvenient.
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1. Aspen & the Roaring Fork Valley, Colorado
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Aspen is winter in its most refined form. Four distinct ski mountains, a walkable town center, and a culture that blends serious outdoor pursuits with thoughtful dining and design make this one of the strongest cold-weather destinations in the country. Winter days here feel full without being frantic: early chairlifts, long lunches, and evenings that revolve around fires, food, and quiet conversations.
Beyond skiing, snowshoeing and cross-country trails stretch throughout the valley, and the surrounding peaks create a sense of enclosure that feels especially comforting in winter.
Things to do
Ski Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, or Highlands depending on ability and crowd tolerance
Snowshoe or Nordic ski along the Roaring Fork River
Explore Aspen’s galleries and museums on rest days
Book spa time or hot springs excursions nearby
Travel tips
Snowmass offers more space and calmer slopes than Ajax during peak weeks
Book dining well ahead during holiday periods
Winter sun is strong at altitude — eye protection matters
2. Telluride, Colorado
Why it’s one of the best US vacation spots in winter
Telluride feels purpose-built for winter. The box canyon setting concentrates snowfall, the ski-in, ski-out access simplifies daily logistics, and the free gondola connects town and mountain without a car. Unlike larger resorts, Telluride retains a sense of calm even in peak season, especially midweek.
The historic town adds texture to ski days, offering quiet streets, independent shops, and restaurants that feel rooted rather than flashy.
Things to do
Ski Telluride’s steep terrain or wide intermediate runs
Ride the gondola at sunset for views over the valley
Snowshoe Jud Wiebe Trail after a fresh snowfall
Spend evenings exploring the compact town core
Where to stay
Travel tips
January and February bring the most consistent snow
The gondola runs late, making dinner plans flexible
Cold snaps are real — proper winter gear matters
3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Jackson Hole is winter for people who take it seriously. Snowfall is deep, terrain is challenging, and the landscape feels vast and untamed. For advanced skiers, few places in the US rival the quality and consistency of the winter conditions here.
Even off the slopes, winter defines the experience. Wildlife moves through snow-covered valleys, the town stays lively but grounded, and the surrounding Tetons create a dramatic, ever-present backdrop.
Things to do
Ski Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s expert terrain
Snowmobile or snowshoe in Grand Teton National Park
Explore Jackson’s galleries and western history
Take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge
Where to stay
Travel tips
This is not a beginner ski destination
Winter driving requires confidence and preparation
Mid-January through early March is peak season
4. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
Why it’s one of the best US vacation spots in winter
Lake Tahoe offers range. On storm days, it delivers deep powder and alpine intensity. On clear days, it feels expansive and bright, with blue skies reflecting off the lake and snow-covered pines. The region’s size allows travelers to choose their pace — lively resort towns or quieter lakefront communities.
Winter in Tahoe balances active days with long evenings, making it especially appealing for groups or longer stays.
Things to do
Ski at Palisades Tahoe, Northstar, or Heavenly
Snowshoe along lakeside trails
Enjoy lake views during clear winter days
Spend evenings cooking, resting, and recharging
Where to stay
Travel tips
Storm cycles can close mountain passes
North Shore tends to feel quieter than South Lake
Chain controls are common after snowfall
5. Park City, Utah
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Park City combines serious skiing with ease. Multiple resorts, a historic Main Street, and reliable snowfall create a winter destination that works well for mixed groups. Non-skiers have plenty to do, and skiers benefit from terrain that accommodates a wide range of abilities.
The town itself remains lively all winter, with events, dining, and easy access from Salt Lake City.
Things to do
Ski Park City Mountain or Deer Valley
Walk Main Street between cafés and galleries
Book a winter spa day or sleigh ride
Explore nearby Nordic skiing trails
Where to stay
Travel tips
Deer Valley remains ski-only, no snowboards
Sundance season changes availability and pricing
January offers lighter crowds than February
6. Big Sky, Montana
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Big Sky is expansive in every sense. Wide-open terrain, dramatic peaks, and minimal crowds define the winter experience here. The skiing is varied and uncrowded, and the surrounding landscape reinforces the feeling of being somewhere truly remote.
This is a destination for travelers who want space, silence, and snow without the resort-town buzz.
Things to do
Ski Big Sky Resort’s long, varied runs
Snowshoe or cross-country ski on quiet trails
Visit Yellowstone’s winter-accessible areas
Enjoy slow evenings surrounded by mountain views
Where to stay
Travel tips
Winter weather can be severe — plan travel buffers
Nightlife is minimal; this is a nature-first destination
February brings deep snow and longer days
7. Palm Springs, California
Why it’s one of the best US vacation spots in winter
Palm Springs is winter sunshine at its most reliable. While much of the country layers up, the desert settles into its most comfortable season. Days are warm without being hot, evenings cool gently, and outdoor living becomes effortless.
Winter is peak season here for good reason — hiking, pool time, and design-forward dining all feel natural in January and February.
Things to do
Hike Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon
Relax poolside under clear desert skies
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Explore mid-century architecture
Where to stay
Travel tips
Nights cool quickly — bring light layers
Winter weekends book far in advance
Morning hikes are ideal for longer routes
8. Scottsdale & the Sonoran Desert, Arizona
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Scottsdale thrives in winter. Temperatures sit comfortably in the 60s and 70s, desert landscapes glow under low-angle sun, and outdoor dining becomes the default. Golf, hiking, spa visits, and art events all align perfectly with the season.
Winter brings clarity to the desert — both visually and experientially.
Things to do
Hike Camelback Mountain or McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Spend afternoons at desert spas
Explore Old Town Scottsdale’s galleries and restaurants
Play winter-season golf courses
Where to stay
Travel tips
Popular hiking trails fill early — start mornings early
Desert sun remains strong even in winter
February and March are peak travel months
9. Miami & the Florida Keys, Florida
Why it’s one of the best US vacation spots in winter
Winter is South Florida’s prime season. Humidity drops, temperatures stay warm, and the ocean remains inviting. Miami offers energy and culture, while the Keys provide slower, water-focused escapes.
This is winter for travelers who want movement, color, and warmth — not sweaters.
Things to do
Swim, snorkel, or paddle in the Keys
Explore Miami’s neighborhoods and art districts
Dine outdoors without summer heat
Take boat days in clear winter water
Where to stay
Travel tips
December through March is peak season
Water remains warm but evenings cool slightly
Advance planning matters for popular restaurants
10. Charleston & the Lowcountry, South Carolina
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Charleston in winter feels calm and breathable. The humidity fades, crowds thin, and the city’s historic core becomes easier to explore on foot. Mild days allow for long walks, waterfront views, and unhurried meals.
Beaches remain walkable year-round, and the region’s food scene continues uninterrupted.
Things to do
Walk the historic district without summer heat
Explore nearby barrier islands
Enjoy Lowcountry cuisine at a slower pace
Visit gardens and historic homes
Travel tips
Water is cool, but beach walks are excellent
January and February are especially quiet
Some attractions shorten winter hours
11. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Santa Fe offers winter with character. Snow often dusts adobe rooftops, the surrounding mountains turn white, and the city’s artistic core becomes even more introspective. Ski Santa Fe provides easy access to winter sports, while the town itself invites slower, reflective travel.
It’s a winter destination for travelers who value culture and calm over crowds.
Things to do
Ski or snowshoe in the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Explore Canyon Road galleries
Enjoy regional cuisine in colder weather
Walk historic neighborhoods after light snowfall
Where to stay
Travel tips
Altitude affects winter temperatures and energy levels
Evenings are cold — plan accordingly
Snowfall varies year to year
12. New York City, New York
Why it’s one of the best winter vacation destinations in the US
Winter reshapes New York City. Parks grow quiet, museums become natural refuges, and the city leans into its cultural strengths. Holiday season adds atmosphere, while January and February bring some of the calmest stretches of the year.
For travelers who enjoy cities at their most authentic, winter is an underrated time to visit.
Things to do
Spend full days in museums and galleries
Walk quiet neighborhoods after snowfall
Attend performances and shows
Explore winter dining scenes
Where to stay
Travel tips
January offers the lowest crowd levels
Cold snaps are brief but intense
Walking remains the best way to explore
Plan Your Winter Escape With Wander
The best winter vacation destinations in the US make winter enjoyable in different ways. Some are built around snow and quiet nights in, while others are centred around sunshine and outdoor living, and some shine because winter softens the pace of city travel.
Wander’s luxury vacation rentals across the US offer thoughtfully designed spaces in winter-ready destinations, from mountain retreats to desert homes and coastal escapes.
Choose where to travel in the US in winter, then book a Wander stay that turns the season into something worth lingering in.
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