Planning your next winter vacation? Whether you’re trying to escape the cold weather or looking to embrace it, the U.S. is full of beautiful destinations with fun outdoor recreation, shopping and dining, and plenty to see and do. Check out these 15 best cities for winter vacations!
Aspen, CO
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 33°; 11°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $514
Aspen is one of the best winter vacation destinations in the U.S. for embracing the cold and hitting the slopes. If you’re planning to ski in Aspen, Snowmass Ski Resort has something for every skill level—Snowmass Mountain for all-around fun, Buttermilk for beginners, Aspen Mountain for intermediate skiing, and Aspen Highlands for advanced skiers who want a challenge. There’s also plenty to do beyond the slopes! Take in incredible views on a ride up the Silver Queen Gondola. Learn about Aspen’s rich history on a Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Stop by the Aspen Art Museum and explore rotating Contemporary exhibits or participate in workshops like Active Art where you can make your own artwork. Buy tickets to live shows like A Magical Motown Christmas, A Snowy Soirée, or other productions put on by the Aspen Community Theatre at the Wheeler Opera House. Celebrate winter in Aspen with the Icebreaker Bash, Soupköl, Beer Festival, and more at Wintersköl, the town’s “toast to winter.” Go shopping in Aspen at places like Kemo Sabe, Explore Books, Aspen Emporium, and more in Downtown Aspen. Discover films from local artists and filmmakers all over the world at Aspen Film. Listen to smooth world-class jazz performances at Jazz Aspen Snowmass. Or watch your favorite athletes compete during the annual X Games.
Chicago, IL
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 34°; 20°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $160
If you’re looking for a festive city during the winter months, chilly Chicago is one of the best U.S. destinations to visit in winter. Lace up your skates and glide along the Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon. Enjoy views of the skyline from a hot tub boat cruise with the Chicago Electric Boat Company. Visit the dazzling ZooLights and take advantage of smaller crowds to see your favorite winter animals at Lincoln Park Zoo. Take the family to Navy Pier Winter WonderFest for indoor winter fun. Bundle up in your winter coat, hat, and gloves to go sledding at Soldier Field. See the famous Chicago Bean before lacing up your skates and gliding around the seasonal McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. Sip winter-themed cocktails on rooftop bars and lounges like the Kennedy Rooftop, the LH Rooftop at LondonHouse Chicago, and IO Godfrey at The Godfrey Hotel. Get cozy by the fire and make s’mores, watch sled dogs, and listen to live music at Polar Adventure Day. Escape the cold and enjoy the warmth of fondue with Beef and Shrimp, Fresh Sea Scallops, or Vegetarian Delight at Geja’s Cafe. Or try your hand at curling on the outdoor curling rink while you enjoy a cocktail at Upstairs at The Gwen.
Jackson, WY
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 27°; 7°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $327
If you’re looking to experience all the natural beauty winter has to offer, a trip to Jackson will suit you perfectly! Tucked in the Teton Mountain Range in Wyoming, this small-but-mighty town is the ideal winter getaway. Start in the charming Town Square, where you can shop, go ice skating, and take a photo with the snowy antler arches. Check out stunning artistic interpretations of America’s wildlife at The National Museum of Wildlife Art. When you’re ready to explore beyond the town, the greater Jackson Hole area offers endless ways to enjoy the season across 400 square miles of beautiful terrain. Go on a winter tour through nearby Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park—two of the best national park vacations in the U.S. Experience the scenic countryside on a guided sled dog tour with Jackson Hole Iditarod Sled Dog Tours. See local wildlife like elk, bison, foxes, wolves, and eagles from the comfort of a horse-drawn sleigh at the National Elk Refuge. Or if you want to get some skiing in, be sure to visit Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village or Snow King Mountain Resort in Jackson!
[sc name=”Find Your Store”]Kauai, HI
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 77°; 64°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $545
Want to escape the cold weather? Fly to Hawaii for a winter vacation! Kauai is the perfect warm-weather location, and it’s one of the best destinations for romantic getaways! Support the only remaining rice mill in Hawaii, the Ho’opulapula Haraguchi Rice Mill, by stopping by their food truck at Hanalei Food Trucks (Friday to Sunday) or at the local farmers market (Saturday). View nature and look for wild pigs and goats while you go hiking in Waimea Canyon State Park. Book a guided Wailua River Kayak Tour where you can take in the beautiful surroundings, like the Uluwehi Falls and the tropical rainforests that can be accessed by hiking. Take advantage of botanical gardens in Kauai that are available year-round, such as the Limahuli Garden on the North Shore or Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden on the South Shore. Go whale-watching off the coast of Kauai to see whales migrating to warmer waters between November and March. Go snorkeling at a spot safe for beginners, like Poipu Beach—or if you have some experience, dive deeper to see amazing views of aquatic life and coral reefs at Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach. Take horseback-riding lessons and visit the 2,500-acre working cattle ranch at Princeville Ranch. Or learn about the history of the island and its native people at the Kauai Museum.
Key West, FL
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 77°; 67°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $350
Another great escape for those seeking warmer weather, Key West has plenty to offer as a destination for your next winter vacation. Visit during the holidays to see boats covered with festive lights at the Lighted Boat Parade. Attend a winter music festival in a waterside amphitheater at the four-day Mile 0 Fest. Take in a beautiful Key West winter sunset while enjoying a few drinks on the Commotion On The Ocean Sunset Sail. Check out the world-famous Conch Tour Train to take a Holiday Light Tour of some of the most beautifully decorated areas on the island. Hop on a ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park, where you can go camping and dive into the crystal blue waters. Go on a Key West dolphin tour and snorkel to see natural coral formations and aquatic plants on the Key West Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Eco Tour. Spend a day on the ever-entertaining Duval Street and be sure to check out some of the local attractions like the Key West Aquarium. Visit the Southernmost Point in the U.S., a popular tourist destination where you can take a photo by the Southernmost Point buoy. Or stop by the iconic Sloppy Joe’s for a few drinks, a Moho Pork Taco, and the Original Sloppy Joe Sandwich.
Las Vegas, NV
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 59°; 41°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $133
Winter in Las Vegas means comfortable weather, festive events, and endless entertainment. Start your trip with outdoor skating at the Boulevard Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan or the Oasis Ice Rink at Fontainebleau. Get a dose of Las Vegas history about organized crime while you visit The Mob Museum—and visit The Speakeasy for seasonal drinks. Pose for photos at desert art installation Seven Magic Mountains. Book a time for the NASCAR Racing Experience and zoom around the track at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Don’t miss your favorite local musicians, immersive art, and tasty food trucks at the Neon City Festival. Bring in the Chinese Lunar New Year at the Lunar New Year Parade and various celebration locations throughout the city during Chinese New Year in the Desert. Go on a family day trip to the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon’s West Rim. Take advantage of Las Vegas’ winter weather to go on a scenic drive, hike the trails, or go rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon. Or drive just 40 minutes from the city to hike or kayak your way to the Gold Strike Hot Springs, where you can take a dip and relax in natural hot springs that are only accessible in cooler months.
New Orleans, LA
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 64°; 48°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $132
New Orleans knows a thing or two about festive holidays. And while NOLA may be better known for its Mardi Gras celebrations, it’s also a great place to have a fun winter vacation! Grab some food and drinks and take in the dazzling festival of light, art, and technology at the Luna Fêtê. Get in the holiday spirit at the Jingle on the Boulevard Parade, where you can see some of the area’s best marching bands and even the occasional celebrity appearance. Head down the six-mile New Orleans hub Magazine Street to support local shops like Alice & Amelia. See animals from all over the world at exhibits like Black Bear Bonanza, Jammin’ with Jaguars, and Rhino Rendezvous at the Audubon Zoo. Stroll through immersive exhibits to learn about NOLA culture and how Sazerac Rye whiskey is made at The Sazerac House. Make your way to the Orpheum Theater to catch the classic winter ballet The Nutcracker or other big-ticket concerts and shows. Or take in an awe-inspiring light show during Celebration in the Oaks at local City Park, which is transformed into a luminescent holiday lights festival every winter.
New York, NY
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 42°; 29°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $175
New York City is an enchanting place to visit in the winter for those who don’t mind the cold. Go ice skating at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Check out impressive displays and exhibits featuring American wildlife at the American Museum of Natural History. Head to Broadway to catch the famous Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. Take a stroll down Fifth Avenue for some shopping and to get a breathtaking view of the city from atop the Empire State Building. Check out cold-weather animals roaming their habitats or stroll through warmer indoor exhibits at the Bronx Zoo‘s Winter Wonderland. Grab a hot cocoa from Daily Provisions or a frozen hot chocolate from the Glace truck, and enjoy it while watching locals skate around The Rink at Rockefeller Center beneath the famous Christmas tree—or lace up your own skates and join them! And don’t forget to take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime experience of watching the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
Palm Springs, CA
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 71°; 47°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $478
Palm Springs is the perfect warm-weather winter escape—filled with sun, style, and scenic desert views. Immerse yourself in nature on trails like the Palm Canyon Trail, Andreas Canyon Trail, and Murray Canyon Trail while hiking in the Indian Canyons. Celebrate the season with marching bands, huge balloons, and more at the Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade. View rotating exhibits like Art Foundations and Art of the West at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Reserve your ticket and attend screenings of films at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Get a bird’s eye view of the city and its surrounding landscape on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Take a dip in the pool even if your accommodations don’t have one by renting a day pass to access hotel pools around Palm Springs. Make your way to Downtown Palm Springs for the weekly Thursday VillageFest, where you can get handmade crafts, culinary treats, and more. If you’re looking for a fun and unique sport to pass the time, try your hand at FootGolf at The Lights at Indio Golf Course—”the only night-lighted golf course in the Coachella Valley.” Or hop in the car and take a quick trip to Joshua Tree National Park, where you can hike, go rock climbing, spot native plants and wildlife, and then go stargazing at night.
Park City, UT
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 34°; 16°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $161
In addition to being one of the best Christmas towns in America, Park City is also a must-visit for anyone seeking winter adventures! This Utah mountain town is known for being an amazing skiing destination, with great spots like Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. But skiing isn’t the only draw! Go fat tire biking through Park City’s elaborate trail system. Try snow tubing, indoor skateboarding, and trampolining at Woodward Park City. Hit up the mountain town’s historic Park City Main Street, where you can shop at local stores and browse art galleries. Enjoy winter and holiday shows at the Egyptian Theatre. Check out some of the best new indie films every year at the famous Sundance Film Festival, which takes place at the end of January. Learn more about Park City’s mining roots at the Park City Museum. Visit the site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and even take a thrilling ride down the Olympic bobsled track at Utah Olympic Park. Or make your way to Heber Valley Railroad and hop on the festive North Pole Express.
Phoenix, AZ
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 68°; 47°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $126
A top winter destination for travelers looking for warmth, sunshine, and family-friendly fun, Phoenix is a warm winter getaway you’ll love! Explore the maze, go ice skating, and stroll through millions of twinkling lights at Desert Farm Lights—a massive holiday wonderland in the West Valley. Go ice skating under the desert sky at Skate Westgate. Experience classic Arizona charm with lights, rides, and delicious treats at Schnepf Farms. Take to the sky before the sun does for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions. See towering saguaros, go hiking or horseback-riding, or visit the three-story Mystery Castle at South Mountain Park and Preserve. Immerse yourself in nature and hike your way to a unique rock formation on the Hole in the Rock trail in Papago Park—where you can also see great views of the Phoenix skyline. Watch some of the world’s best golfers compete at the WM Phoenix Open. Or explore native plants and vibrant desert blooms while you walk the glowing paths of Las Noches De Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden.
San Antonio, TX
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 65°; 43°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $110
Looking for a family-friendly winter vacation spot? San Antonio is one of the best places to visit in the winter, thanks to its pleasantly warm weather and amazing things to do for all ages. Stroll down the San Antonio River Walk—a 15-mile urban waterway—to see some of the sights of the city, shop at amazing local stores, enjoy fine dining, and even spot some wildlife. Go into the depths of the earth to see breathtaking formations of stalagmites and stalactites on a tour at the Natural Bridge Caverns. Get your face painted, visit food booths featuring Tex-Mex, and buy art from local artisans at the weekly events in the Historic Market Square. See orcas and dolphins at SeaWorld San Antonio, and be sure to stop by other attractions such as the Beluga Whale Tour or rides like the Journey to Atlantis, Tidal Surge, and Steel Eel. Visit The Alamo to learn more about the legendary fort. Experience thrills on the rides or check out seasonal events like Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Attend local music festivals like the Mariachi Extravaganza. Delight your inner foodie with seasonal dining events like Winter Restaurant Weeks put on by Culinaria. Or visit the Texas Native Trail, Kumamoto En, or the Lucile Halsell Conservatory at the San Antonio Botanical Garden.
[nearby_stores map=’0′]San Diego, CA
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 66°; 51°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $217
If you’re looking to take a winter trip to California, San Diego has to be on your shortlist. Not only is San Diego’s weather near-perfect throughout the year, but travel accommodations are also cheaper than you may think. Get into the holiday spirit at the Salute the Season Art Installations art walk and the Hanukkah & Menorah Lighting. See whales migrating through the area throughout the season with San Diego Whale Watch. Marvel at festive light creations and installations in the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Go wine-tasting at Bernardo Winery and San Pasqual Winery. Grab a meal from some of the best restaurants in San Diego after ice skating on Rady’s Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station. Try various types of chili while listening to live music, doing crafts, or browsing indie goods, all while benefiting a local elementary school at the SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off. Find San Diego cuisine that suits your taste buds, listen to live music, or even enjoy a few comedy sets in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Head to the beautiful Balboa Park for the fantastic December Nights displays or to visit the famous San Diego Zoo! Or enjoy the region’s mild weather while taking a hike through nearby Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
Santa Fe, NM
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 45°; 19°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $363
Looking for a winter getaway that blends outdoor adventure with vibrant culture? Plan a winter vacation in Santa Fe! Go downhill skiing and snowboarding at Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, or Taos Ski Valley. Get incredible views of the city and its surrounding mountains from the Sandia Peak Tramway. Check out world-class art galleries, shops, and restaurants on the half-mile-long Canyon Road. Browse stunning handmade objects from over 100 countries on display at the Museum of International Folk Art. Buy tickets and stroll through the Santa Fe Botanical Garden to see an array of native and non-native plant species—or come at night to see the bright displays of La Luz de Las Noches. Explore the expansive Santa Fe National Forest, then relax nearby at the Japanese-inspired hot spring resort, Ten Thousand Waves. Spend a day hiking through beautiful forest terrain or snowshoe across the best snowshoeing trails in Santa Fe. Or try incredible local Santa Fe restaurants like El Farol and Radish & Rye.
Whitefish, MT
- Average High & Low Temperature in Winter: 31°; 17°
- Average Nightly Hotel Cost: $432
A town that’ll make you feel like you were dropped into a Winter Wonderland, Whitefish is the perfect holiday trip for those who just can’t get enough of winter! Spend a day testing local and national brews at Montana Tap House, or check out unique craft brews such as the Queen Bee, Satin, Country Colada, and Howdy Pardner at Bonsai Brewery. Go skiing or snowboarding down the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Stop by The Lodge at Whitefish Lake for the Ice Bar & S’mores event. Dine at local restaurants in Whitefish and enjoy the nightlife in the downtown area. Take in classic theatre performances or watch a brand new production at the Alpine Theatre Project. Saddle up and go horseback-riding, hike on Lion Mountain, or take fly casting lessons at the Bar W Guest Ranch. Check out the annual Whitefish Winter Carnival to play themed games, experience carnival rides, or just take in the wonder of winter in Montana. Or relax and unwind with a foot scrub, hot stone, or deep-tissue massage at Natural Elements Massage & Spa.
Winter Vacation FAQs
What are the best places for a warm winter vacation?
If you’re hoping to escape the cold, destinations like Palm Springs, Kauai, and Key West are ideal. These sunny getaways offer mild temperatures, plenty of outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery that are perfect for travelers seeking warmth during the colder months.
Where can I experience a true Winter Wonderland with snow and low temperatures?
For travelers who want to embrace the cold, Aspen, Jackson, and Park City are classic cold-weather vacation spots. These destinations offer skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cozy après-ski activities surrounded by snowy mountain views.
Are there any budget-friendly winter vacation destinations with mild weather?
Yes! If you’re looking for an affordable winter getaway that’s reasonably warm, try Las Vegas, Phoenix, or San Antonio. These cities have pleasant winter temperatures, lower hotel rates, and lots of free or low-cost attractions, making them great choices for winter travelers on a budget.
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The goal of Extra Space Storage’s seasonal Best Vacation Destinations selections is to help diverse audiences at varying stages of life make informed decisions about where to travel. To provide a well-rounded and accurate view of each metro area, we consider factors like cost of accommodations, local attractions, tourist seasons, and more. Learn more about our methodology today.
Travel and weather statistics from Budget Your Trip and U.S. Climate Data
