While winter may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there’s a unique charm to exploring serene landscapes and enjoying fewer crowds during this season. Ditch the conventional snow-filled vacations and discover thrilling adventures from coast to coast. From Alaskan wonderlands to scenic coastal road trips, here are enticing winter getaways catering to every type of traveler.
Alaska’s Aurora Adventure: A Train Journey Through Winter’s Embrace
Embark on a captivating train ride through Alaska’s winter wonderland with the Aurora Winter Train. Connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks, this year-round adventure offers breathtaking views of ivory landscapes and sapphire blue skies. Stay enchanted as wild moose glide past large windows. Experience the magic of the aurora borealis in Fairbanks or indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities like ice climbing and dogsledding in Anchorage.
Must-See: Explore the world’s largest year-round ice environment at the Aurora Ice Museum in Fairbanks.
Stay: Immerse yourself in the remote Eleven Winterlake Lodge for a 15-acre adventurer’s paradise.
Oregon’s Coastal Charisma: A Road Trip to Remember
Embark on a scenic road trip down Oregon’s captivating 363-mile coastline, showcasing moody landscapes, towering waves, and craggy headlands. From Astoria to Brookings, discover quirky coastal communities, visit Shore Acres State Park to spot sea lions, and explore the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Let the winter storms add drama to this coastal wonder.
Must-See: Ecola State Park’s nine-mile stretch offering stunning views of stacked coastal mountains and crashing waves.
Eat: Savor gooey grilled cheese and homemade fudge at the Tillamook Cheese Factory.
San Antonio’s Illuminated Nights: A River Walk Extravaganza
From late November to early January, witness millions of twinkling lights transforming the San Antonio River Walk into a dazzling spectacle. Cruise along riverboats filled with festive choirs and ensembles, and delve into the city’s colonial heritage at the 18th-century San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Must-See: Explore the enchanting San Antonio Missions, the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Texas.
Eat: Indulge in Tex-Mex delights, a charcuterie plate at Cured, or a culinary adventure at Mixtli Mexican Culinaria.
Sundance and Celestial Serenity: Park City, Utah’s Winter Delights
Escape to Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival in January. While Hollywood takes center stage, indulge in stargazing along historic Main Street, lively bars, and eclectic galleries. Hit the slopes at Deer Valley Ski Resort for a low-traffic winter sports experience.
Must-See: Explore the low-traffic slopes of the posh Deer Valley Ski Resort.
Eat: Enjoy buffalo sliders and shuffleboard at the kitschy No Name Saloon and Grill on Main Street.
New Mexico’s Hot Springs Oasis: Soothing Geothermal Bliss
Experience New Mexico’s outdoor haven with over 300 days of sunshine. After active days exploring national forests and parks, unwind in geothermal mineral springs or indulge in Native American-inspired spa treatments. Head to Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa for rejuvenating waters surrounded by high desert mesas.
Must-See: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Taos Pueblo, just 45 minutes north of Ojo Caliente.
Stay: Consider Truth or Consequences, a resort town with 10 commercial bathhouses.
Hawaii’s Aquatic Spectacle: Whale-Watching Paradise
Escape the winter cold and bask in the sunny Hawaiian islands between December and May. Witness the mesmerizing migration of humpback whales in the Auau Channel, especially around West Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. Immerse yourself in the crystal waters and explore Haleakalā National Park for otherworldly landscapes.
Must-See: Experience the breathtaking views of Haleakalā Crater in Haleakalā National Park.
Eat: Indulge in fresh seafood with an oceanfront view at Merriman’s in striking Kapalua Bay.
7. Arizona’s Cultural Odyssey: Discover the Navajo Nation
Embark on a journey through the expansive Navajo Nation, spanning Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. Explore the majestic canyons of the Navajo National Monument and venture to the Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Dive into the rich history of the Navajo people at the Explore Navajo museum in Tuba City.
Must-See: Visit Hubbell Trading Post, the oldest operating trading post on the Navajo Nation, for authentic Navajo crafts.
Shop: Explore the vibrant offerings of rugs, jewelry, and kachina dolls at the Hubbell Trading Post.
8. Philadelphia’s Colorful Revelry: Mummers Parade Extravaganza
Celebrate New Year’s Day in Philadelphia with the vibrant Mummers Parade, the oldest continuous folk parade in the U.S. Join thousands of revelers as they flood the streets in a riot of color, music, and dance. Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art and savor award-winning fare at renowned restaurants.
Must-See: Wander behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a view of glittering Boathouse Row.
Eat: Enjoy lauded fare at Friday Saturday Sunday or savor a breakfast pizza at Wm. Mulherin’s Sons.
9. Yellowstone’s Winter Wilderness: Wildlife Marvels Without the Crowds
Experience the wonders of Yellowstone National Park during winter, where steaming geysers and dramatic landscapes await. Encounter elk, bison, and coyotes against the tranquil winter backdrop. Opt for a National Geographic Expeditions trip for a guided exploration of the park’s unique ecosystem.
