Do your kids’ schools offer a winter break? Or maybe you are looking to use Christmas break to travel somewhere new. Either way winter can be a great time to travel and see the US without the sweltering heat or crowds. These destinations are the best winter vacations in the US for families. You can bring the youngest kids along with grandma and grandpa for a wonderful winter getaway.
This list was pulled from locations all over the US that offer something unique making them favorite winter destinations worthy of visiting over and over again.
There are a variety of places from all over the US and although this definitely isn’t every spot you could possibly visit I would argue that they are some of the best available.
If nothing else this list can help you think of new locations and destinations you may not have thought of on your own.
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The Best Cold Weather Winter Destinations in the US
Just because the weather has turned cold doesn’t mean the fun has to stop, there are so many fun and adventurous ways to seize the season and enjoy the cold and snow. Each of these cold weather vacations in the US offer just that.
Vail, Colorado
Vail, CO is a world renown skiing destination and it is well worth the visit. Even if you don’t like skiing you can participate in other fun winter activities like snow shoeing, ice skating and tubing. There are some not so ordinary activities too such as fat tire biking, horseback riding or riding a ski bike!
Lake Tahoe, California + Nevada
Lake Tahoe is beautiful in the summer but there is something special about seeing it all covered in snow. Go on winter hikes to see amazing views and the crystal blue waters surrounded by sparkling snow.
Bryce Canyon, Utah
Seeing the contrast of red rock against snow alone is worth the trip to Bryce Canyon, UT. From there the experience only gets better though. There are hikes and horseback riding that everyone can enjoy while admiring the stunning views.
Leavenworth, Washington
Especially great for a family Christmas vacation in the US Leavenworth, WA looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. This Bavarian town is cute and picturesque with its half timbered houses and snow covered streets. With winter activities galore from skiing to snowshoeing as well as places indoor where you can get warm like the Nutcracker Museum. You’ll feel like you are in Germany without the price tag.
New York City, New York
Come to New York City to ice skate, shop or enjoy 5 star dining experiences. The city has a lot to offer all year long both indoors and out. If you want to get out of the cold head into one of dozens of museums spread throughout the city. Not to mention, the Christmas season here is truly magical.
Read More: First Timers Guide to New York City, New York
Fairbanks, Alaska
For a bucket list experience this winter head to Fairbanks Alaska. Here you can watch the northern lights dance across the night sky. If you can find your way to Alaska this winter then along with the northern lights you can see glaciers and Denali National Park and giant moose.
Book my getaway to watch the northern lights.
Lake Erie, Ohio
If you like fishing, or if you want to try your hand at another unique winter activity then visit Lake Erie, Ohio this winter. When the lake freezes over you can visit a hut on the water and try ice fishing.
Montana
Montana is one of the best winter vacations in the US for families that like adventure. Here you can experience snowmobiling across wide open plains of snow. Families can also go skiing at the Big Sky Ski Resort.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
There is no better time to photograph Crater Lake National Park in Oregon than in the winter. So make sure you bring your snowshoes and get outside for an active winter getaway in the Northwestern United States. You can hike the rim of crater lake as well as several trails that are open all year round.
Park City, Utah
Another world class ski destination right here in the US is Park City, UT. Located less than an hour from Salt Lake City, this quaint ski town has a fun main street to explore plus all of the winter sport arenas from the 2002 olympics. You can even try bobsledding on a real course that will speed you along at neck breaking speeds. Don’t miss out on the Sundance Film Festival while you are there, there are events galore and many showings of award winning films.
Read More: How to Spend a Relaxing Day in Park City, UT
Vermont
If you like snowboarding or skiing, another must visit winter destination in the US is Vermont. Although Vermont is a bucket list fall destination due to the kaleidoscope of color that appears each year when the leaves change colors, it is not to be missed in the winter either. Here you can snowmobile, ice fish or hike during the day. In the evenings cozy up by the fire with a good meal or a book, get a relaxing spa treatment or go out to pick from a variety of performances to watch.
More to Do in the US:
- 21 Best Summer Vacations in the US for Families
- 47 Bucket List Worthy Places to Travel in the US
- 9 Romantic Getaways to Visit in the USA without a Passport
- Customizable 1 Week Packing List (in a Carry-On)
The Best Warm Weather Winter Vacations in the US
If you prefer to escape the cold altogether then these are the best warm weather winter destinations in the US. From pristine beaches to desert charm you can finally get warm this winter.
Florida Keys
For clear blue water, temperatures in the high 70’s (F) and a healthy dose of vitamin D head down to the southernmost point of the US. You can enjoy kayaking through mangroves in Key West or snorkeling on Key Largo. Enjoy relaxing on island time surrounded by pastel beach homes and the sound of crashing waves.
Read More: One Day Key West, FL Itinerary
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Although not the warmest destination on the list, highs in Joshua Tree National Park in the winter still reach into the 60’s. You can enjoy this busy, unique park with far less crowds and just as much beauty as the rest of the year. You can enjoy hiking or horseback riding in comfortable temperatures during the day. Beware though, temperatures do drop at night.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Winter is a great time to visit Big Bend National Park in Texas. Similar to Joshua Tree the temperatures are comfortably mild during the day but they drop pretty low at night. The mild temperatures are ideal for hiking through the park all day without getting hot. This remote park is perfect for getting away from everything for a moment and enjoying stargazing at night.
Sedona, Arizona
With highs in the low 60’s and significantly less crowds than the rest of the year, winter is a great time to visit Sedona, Arizona. Because the temperature drops at night you may even get to see the stunning red rocks coated in a thin layer of snow. This outdoor mecca offers the jumping grounds for hiking, ATVing and so much more. When you’re done adventuring head to the spa or ride the train for ultimate views.
Hawaii
Hawaii has a lot to offer in the form of beaches, mountains, waterfalls and really just overall adventure and relaxation side by side. Temperatures hover around 78 degrees fahrenheit which will feel comfortable especially if you are coming from freezing winter temperatures. Winter is the wet season though so that is something to keep in mind when you are packing. Each island offers a unique experience, I don’t think you can go wrong picking one.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs stays at about mid 70 through the winter, in fact it isn’t that far from Joshua Tree National Park. The temperatures are perfect for sightseeing in a bulky sweater or a light jacket. Here you can explore a desert zoo, museums and dine on delicious foods. Not to mention markets full of unique finds to browse and festivals that will almost make you feel like you’re back in a winter wonderland.
Crystal River, Florida
Crystal River, FL is about an hour away from Tampa, Florida and it definitely is not quite as warm as the Keys. However, it is a bucket list worthy winter destination for a surprising reason. Here you can swim with manatees in a beautiful natural spring. This is the only place in the world where you can swim with manatees and the winter is the only time of year when hundreds of manatees are in the spring at a time. The springs stay a cool 72 F all year round which may feel a little chilly but the manatees migrate in from the ocean for warmth!
Read More: 14 Fun Day Trips from Tampa, Florida
Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico – Leave the US without leaving
Two destinations that are not part of the 50 States but are technically a part of the US and would make amazing winter vacations for the whole family; the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. With beautiful beaches, warm weather and tons of things to explore like forts and waterfalls, both destinations are worth a winter getaway.
Best Winter Vacations in the US for Families
These are some of the best winter vacations in the US for families in both warm and cold destinations. Wherever you decide to go, I know you’ll have a great time! Where has been your favorite winter getaway that you’ve done?
