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Who says winter needs to be all snowflakes and frostbite? I suppose you’re uninterested in shoveling driveways and bundling up like a marshmallow? In that case, it’s time to swap winter coats for Hawaiian shirts and commerce the winter wonderland for heat winter trip locations within the USA.
From sandy seashores that supply a tropical paradise to metropolis breaks the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in sightseeing with out slipping on ice, these are the highest spots within the USA to heat your soul and toast your toes this winter.
So, whereas your mates are busy posting pics of their frozen fingers, you could be dwelling your greatest life with a piña colada in hand and absorbing some rays in your winter trip in…
1. Miami, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 69.2°F – 76°F
Florida is called the Sunshine State for a cause – it has 248 sunny days a yr and even within the winter, it has heat temperatures, making it supreme for these searching for a seashore vacation spot.
In truth, Miami’s coldest month is January, and even then, it reaches a median temperature of a blissful 69.2°F.
Miami is an distinctive heat winter getaway, for extra than simply the cool local weather. Bask within the solar on iconic seashores like South Seashore through the day, and benefit from the metropolis’s world-famous nightlife by evening.
The town could also be synonymous with seashores, however it’s additionally a dynamic and culturally numerous metropolis, which actually shines by means of in its artwork scene; stroll across the leafy neighborhood of Coconut Grove and for those who’re visiting in February, you’ll be able to attend the annual arts pageant there.
Be sure you admire the structure within the Artwork Deco Historic District, or go gallery-hopping in Wynwood.
Winter can also be the proper time to discover out of doors actions, corresponding to kayaking in Biscayne Bay or taking a scenic stroll by means of the plush landscapes of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Miami can also be very festive within the winter months and is whenever you’ll discover the buzzing Artwork Basel in December and the Miami Worldwide Boat Present, the biggest boat present on the earth, in February.
Learn extra: Listed here are a number of boutique motels in Miami you could like to think about.
2. Key West, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 65°F – 75°F
This island metropolis of Key West is without doubt one of the most well-known trip spots in Florida all yr spherical and is thought for its laid-back ambiance, beautiful sunsets, and colourful conch-style homes – making it an ideal winter getaway for many who want their lives brightening up a bit.
In the course of the winter months, temperatures usually vary from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, making it supreme for exploring the blissful seashores, indulging in water sports activities – notably for snorkeling and diving the famed coral reefs – or taking a stroll alongside the colourful Duval Avenue, lined with boutique retailers, eating places, and bars.
The winter season can also be when you’ll be able to attend the Key West Meals and Wine Competition (January), a favourite pageant within the space, and for those who’re visiting in December, the vacation lights on the Key West Historic Seaport and Key West Bight Marina are iconic.
Additionally remember to take a day journey over to Dry Tortugas Nationwide Park to see the historic Fort Jefferson and to snorkel within the Florida Keys, which is among the greatest snorkeling in North America (outdoors of Hawaii, extra on that under).
With its laid-back vibe, lovely surroundings, and tropical panorama, Key West is an inviting vacation spot for these looking for heat and journey through the winter months.
3. San Diego, California
- Common winter temperature: 52°F – 66°F
With its delicate local weather, lovely seashores, and iconic sights like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, San Diego is a superb vacation spot to move off to within the winter.
San Diego boasts a gentle and nice local weather with common temperatures starting from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit.
Whereas it is probably not seashore climate, this snug temperature is ideal for visiting quite a few out of doors sights with out the throngs you get with summer time crowds.
Winter is a superb time to go to La Jolla Cove, the place you’ll be able to spot sea lions basking on the rocks and revel in scenic coastal walks. Balboa Park, residence to lovely gardens and world-class museums, can also be excellent for leisurely walks within the winter.
The San Diego Zoo stays a high draw and has gained quite a few awards for its distinctive animal encounters and naturalistic habitats.
San Diego is the proper metropolis escape. It has tons of sights to take pleasure in and you’ll take pleasure in sunshine even throughout winter days. Listed here are a number of locations to remain in San Diego.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
- Common winter temperature: 44°F – 67°F
In case you’re searching for someplace heat to spend the vacations, Phoenix Arizona is one in all our favourite locations for vacation journey.
With heat temperatures, it’s the proper time of yr to take pleasure in out of doors actions corresponding to climbing within the close by deserts or taking part in a spherical of golf.
Whereas most nationwide parks and state parks shut within the winter, climbing the beautiful trails of South Mountain Park is open all yr spherical. The Dobbins Lookout path is a specific favourite because it affords pretty views throughout the town.
Or head throughout to Camelback Mountain, one in all Phoenix’s hottest hikes, which additionally affords breathtaking metropolis views.
The town can also be residence to vibrant cultural sights, together with the Desert Botanical Backyard, showcasing the distinctive desert flora, and the Heard Museum, which highlights Native American artwork and tradition.
Winter is a superb time to take pleasure in varied occasions, such because the Phoenix Open golf match (February) and the nationally acclaimed arts pageant, Tempe Fall Competition of the Arts (December).
With its sunny skies, out of doors actions, and wealthy cultural experiences, Phoenix is a superb winter escape for these looking for heat and journey.
One other winter heat vacation spot in Arizona to think about is Tucson, solely two hours from Phoenix. We actually loved spending time there on our RV journey through the winter. There are such a lot of nice issues to do in Tuscon, together with the Saguaro Nationwide Park and Tombstone, the views are beautiful and the climate tremendous!
5. Scottsdale, Arizona
- Common winter temperature: 68°F – 73°F
In winter, Scottsdale in Arizona appears like summer time. Take pleasure in balmy days and funky desert nights, with a gentle forecast of sunshine that makes it excellent for getting out and exploring the outside.
This desert jewel is ideal for out of doors adventures within the winter. Some standard actions embody climbing the long-lasting Camelback Mountain with out the summer time scorch, strolling by means of the surreal great thing about the Sonoran Desert on the McDowell Sonoran Protect, or tee off on one in all Scottsdale’s world-class golf programs.
After sundown, the town comes alive with its upscale and vigorous nightlife scene. Head to Previous City Scottsdale for the leisure district, or watch reside nation music on the historic Rusty Spur Saloon.
With its mix of pure magnificence and number of issues to do, Scottsdale is greater than only a heat place.
You could like: 6 Causes to Keep on the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Scottsdale
6. Palm Springs, California
- Common winter temperature: 40°F – 75°F
Recognized for its sizzling springs, fashionable motels, and golf programs, Palm Springs has been a well-liked winter retreat for Hollywood celebrities and California metropolis dwellers for greater than a century.
Palm Springs is thought for its heat and sunny local weather all yr spherical, and within the winter when the solar is heat however not blazing, it’s excellent for exploring the beautiful desert panorama in close by Joshua Tree Nationwide Park or taking a trip on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley.
The town can also be well-known for its mid-century trendy structure, and has a vibrant arts scene, upscale buying, and enjoyable spa experiences, making it a unbelievable location for these looking for each journey and leisure in a picturesque desert setting.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Common winter temperature: 48°F – 64°F
Expertise the distinctive tradition, music, and delicacies of Louisiana whereas having fun with the delicate winter temperatures of New Orleans.
New Orleans’s winters have a gentle and comfy local weather that’s excellent for exploring the town.
This season is ideal for having fun with the vigorous ambiance of the French Quarter, the place you’ll be able to savor scrumptious Creole and Cajun dishes at native eating places or take heed to reside jazz music in cozy venues.
Winter additionally brings festive celebrations, together with an opportunity to attempt one of many standard Reveillon dinners, a conventional Thanksgiving feast, in addition to be part of within the celebrations for the beginning of Mardi Gras (February), providing parades and vibrant road events.
Winter is a superb time to discover New Orleans’s high sights, corresponding to historic St. Louis Cathedral, or take leisurely strolls alongside the picturesque Riverwalk. With its wealthy historical past, distinctive tradition, and festive celebrations, New Orleans is a fascinating vacation spot to go to through the holidays and affords a winter escape that will likely be unforgettable.
Learn extra: Locations to Eat in New Orleans to Style Among the Most Scrumptious Meals within the US
8. Tampa, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 59°F – 73°F
With its lovely waterfront, cultural sights, and close by seashores, Tampa is a pleasant escape with a heat and welcoming local weather.
This time of yr is ideal for having fun with the gorgeous waterfront at Tampa Bay, the place you’ll be able to go kayaking or fishing, or visiting the town’s high sights corresponding to Busch Gardens, which options thrilling rides and a zoo, in addition to the Florida Aquarium, showcasing marine life from native waters.
Winter is a superb time to expertise native festivals, such because the ever-popular Gasparilla Pirate Competition held in January, which options parades and vigorous occasions.
We additionally love close by Clearwater Seashore – one in all our favourite seashores within the USA!
9. Honolulu and Waikiki Seashore, Hawaii
- Common winter temperature: 68°F – 80°F
In order for you a tropical vacation spot to go to within the USA, then Hawaii is it. Whereas a bit farther from the mainland, Honolulu on Oahu Island is the closest place to search out tropical heat, beautiful white sand seashores, and wealthy cultural experiences in Hawaii.
Honolulu temperatures usually vary from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit through the winter, making it excellent for beachgoers and out of doors fanatics alike.
Loosen up on the long-lasting Waikiki Seashore, attempt your hand at browsing, or discover the beautiful landscapes of Diamond Head State Monument with its breathtaking views.
Winter can also be a superb time for snorkeling and diving, notably at Hanauma Bay, the place it’s attainable to see Sea Turtles in addition to a plethora of colourful fish.
In the course of the holidays, some of the standard issues to do in Honolulu is to observe the opening of the Honolulu Metropolis Lights, the place lovely vacation decorations are illuminated and the town is embellished with native artistry.
10. Austin, Texas
- Common winter temperature: 41°F – 52°F
Recognized for its reside music scene and plethora of out of doors actions, Austin is the proper metropolis vacation spot within the winter. It is probably not tremendous heat, at a median excessive of 52°F, however it’s delicate sufficient which you could benefit from the sights of the town with out breaking out in a sweat.
By day, head to the picturesque Zilker Park for some climbing, picnicking, and having fun with the gorgeous surroundings, or head to the close by Barton Springs Pool on a hotter day for a refreshing dip in its pure spring-fed waters.
By evening, Austin comes alive. Its famend reside music scene, with quite a few venues internet hosting performances throughout varied genres, makes it the proper metropolis for evening owls to take pleasure in.
Winter can also be a good time to expertise native festivals, such because the Austin Path of Lights, which illuminates the town with dazzling vacation shows all through the month of December.
11. Savannah, Georgia
- Common winter temperature: 45°F – 66°F
With its charming historic district and delicate climate, Savannah boasts a gentle winter local weather that’s excellent for exploring the town’s lovely squares and parks.
You possibly can take a leisurely stroll alongside the oak-lined streets, admire the beautiful antebellum houses, and benefit from the peaceable ambiance of Forsyth Park.
Winter can also be a really perfect time to expertise Savannah’s wealthy historical past by means of guided strolling excursions or to go to notable websites just like the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace and the historic River Avenue.
The Savannah Christmas Market can also be probably the greatest within the nation and is a superb place to buy native crafts and distinctive vacation presents and revel in seasonal treats.
12. Orlando, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 49°F – 70°F
Residence to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Common Studios, Orlando is without doubt one of the greatest family-friendly locations in Florida, and because it’s within the Sunshine State, it’s excellent for these wanting a heat local weather for his or her winter holidays.
Orlando is thought for its heat climate and world-class sights. Expertise the magic of famend theme parks like Walt Disney World and Common Orlando Resort, which frequently characteristic festive vacation decorations and particular occasions throughout this season.
Past the theme parks, Orlando affords quite a lot of out of doors actions, together with lovely parks and nature reserves for climbing and birdwatching. Head to the close by Everglades and see alligators of their pure habitat or go tubing in Kelly Park. There may be extra to do in Orlando than simply Disneyland.
With its mixture of thrilling sights, nice climate, and festive cheer, Orlando is a unbelievable winter getaway for households and journey seekers alike. You could like staying in an Orlando Villa, particularly nice for bigger touring events.
13. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 62°F – 78°F
Recognized for its boating canals and beautiful seashores, Fort Lauderdale is a winter vacation spot that gives the proper mix of solar, sea, and vibrant tradition.
In the course of the winter months, common temperatures usually vary from the mid-60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit, creating an inviting subtropical local weather for beachgoers.
Loosen up on the beautiful seashores, take a scenic boat tour by means of the town’s well-known canals (a bucket listing expertise in Florida), or discover the picturesque Las Olas Boulevard, lined with retailers, galleries, and eating places.
Winter can also be when large occasions come to city, such because the Fort Lauderdale Worldwide Boat Present and the Winterfest Boat Parade, which showcases fantastically embellished vessels.
14. South Padre Island, Texas
- Common winter temperature: 65°F – 82°F
This barrier island is legendary for its lovely seashores, water sports activities, and heat climate, making it a well-liked winter vacation spot within the USA.
South Padre Island is a nice escape from colder climates, and affords quite a lot of out of doors actions, corresponding to beachcombing, birdwatching, and fishing, because the island is residence to numerous wildlife and delightful pure landscapes.
The winter season can also be supreme for water sports activities like kiteboarding and paddleboarding, in addition to dolphin-watching excursions that present an up-close expertise with these playful marine mammals.
The annual Lighted Boat Parade brings a little bit of festive cheer for these visiting in December, showcasing quite a few boats illuminated with festive lights making their approach throughout the Laguna Madre Bay to South Padre Island.
15. Las Vegas, Nevada
- Common winter temperature: 39°F – 58°F
With its vibrant nightlife, casinos, leisure choices, and delicate winter temperatures, Las Vegas is a superb place to flee the chilly.
Las Vegas has common winter temperatures usually starting from the early-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, making it snug to discover the well-known Las Vegas Strip and its iconic sights.
For these trying to escape the hustle and bustle, close by sights like Crimson Rock Canyon and the Valley of Fireplace State Park supply the proper beautiful pure retreat and have a plethora of climbing alternatives and out of doors adventures to discover.
You can even attain Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park, the most well liked place in the US, on a day journey from Vegas.
Within the night, you’ll be able to take pleasure in world-class exhibits, live shows, and performances, in addition to indulge within the metropolis’s famend eating scene, that includes every thing from celeb chef eating places to buffet feasts.
Winter additionally brings festive occasions, such because the Las Vegas Competition of Lights and holiday-themed exhibits, making a magical ambiance, particularly for those who’re visiting Vegas with children.
Learn extra: Issues to do in Las Vegas with teenagers, One of the best kid-friendly motels in Vegas, The right way to go to Vegas on a price range
16. Gulf Shores, Alabama
- Common winter temperature: 50.5°F – 68.6°F
Gulf Shores is a peaceable retreat with beautiful coastal views and delicate temperatures, excellent for participating in out of doors actions with out the summer time crowds.
Benefit from the lovely white sandy seashores, take leisurely walks alongside the shore, or discover the scenic Gulf State Park, which options climbing and biking trails amidst picturesque landscapes.
Winter can also be a superb time for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to the realm.
Moreover, you’ll be able to discover native Gulf Shore sights with out the crowds, such because the Gulf Shores Museum and the close by Bon Secour Nationwide Wildlife Refuge, which affords insights into the area’s historical past and pure magnificence. It made our listing of greatest locations to go to within the USA with teenagers.
17. Charleston, South Carolina
- Common winter temperature: 47°F – 52°F
With its historic allure, lovely structure, and delicate winters, Charleston is a stunning vacation spot to discover any time of the yr, however it’s notably peaceable within the winter.
Charleston is famend for its wealthy historical past and charming Southern ambiance. In the course of the winter months, it has a snug local weather that’s supreme for exploring the town’s historic websites and picturesque streets.
Stroll by means of the cobblestone alleys of the historic district, admire the antebellum structure, and go to landmarks corresponding to Fort Sumter and the Battery.
Winter can also be an exquisite time to expertise native tradition by means of occasions just like the Vacation Competition of Lights at James Island County Park, which options dazzling mild shows and festive actions.
Charleston additionally has a vibrant culinary scene, and you’ll benefit from the warming and hearty flavors of conventional Lowcountry delicacies at cozy eating places.
18. Sedona, Arizona
- Common winter temperature: 31°F – 57°F
Well-known for its beautiful crimson rock formations and out of doors actions, Sedona is the perfect pure trip vacation spot for out of doors lovers who don’t need to head to the seashores.
Sedona’s common temperatures within the winter vary from the mid-30s to low-60s Fahrenheit, offering a cool but nice local weather for out of doors adventures like climbing or visiting the quite a few Sedona vortex websites.
Hike on the quite a few trails that wind by means of the long-lasting crimson rocks, embark on a Sedona pink jeep tour, trip the Verde Canyon Railroad, and remember to step outdoors at evening, as this time of yr is ideal for stargazing (Sedona is acknowledged for its darkish skies and beautiful celestial views). Are you able to see why it’s one in all our favourite locations within the USA?
The Sedona Worldwide Movie Competition, which takes place in February, is without doubt one of the hottest winter festivals and showcases impartial movies from throughout the globe.
Learn extra: Issues to do in Sedona with children
19. Naples, Florida
- Common winter temperature: 53°F – 78°F
Naples is an upscale vacation spot recognized for its lovely seashores and white sands, high-end buying, and heat winter climate all yr spherical.
Loosen up on the pristine, white sandy seashores, discover the scenic Naples Pier, or embark on a ship tour by means of the close by mangroves and estuaries, the place they will spot dolphins and different wildlife.
The town additionally boasts a thriving arts neighborhood, with quite a few galleries and theaters, in addition to occasions just like the Naples Winter Wine Competition, which takes place in January and options tremendous wines and connoisseur eating.
20. Maui, Hawaii
- Common winter temperature: 64°F – 81°F
One other Hawaiian possibility, Maui affords beautiful seashores, lush landscapes, and heat temperatures year-round.
Discover the breathtaking surroundings alongside the Street to Hana, hike by means of lush rainforests, or loosen up on the gorgeous seashores of Kaanapali and Wailea, there’s a lot to do on this tropical paradise.
Winter can also be prime whale watching season, as humpback whales migrate to the nice and cozy waters surrounding the island.
Moreover, Maui’s vibrant tradition could be skilled by means of conventional luaus, native markets, and artwork galleries – you’ll by no means run out of issues to do in Maui.
21. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
- Common winter temperature: 40°F – 68°F
Recognized for its lovely seashores and golf programs, Hilton Head Island is a heat and enjoyable winter escape.
Go biking alongside the intensive community of trails, {golfing} on world-class programs, or take leisurely walks on the pristine sandy shores.
The island can also be residence to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and native crafts retailers to discover, in addition to scrumptious eating choices that includes contemporary seafood and Lowcountry delicacies.
In case you’re visiting in February, head to the Hilton Head Island Seafood Competition to pattern the realm’s culinary delights.
Last ideas
By now, you have to be prepared to flee the winter blues and warmth issues up at one of many hottest winter getaways within the USA.
Irrespective of for those who’ve chosen a seashore vacation spot or a vibrant metropolis, these locations can have you saying, “I’m so glad I didn’t ‘flake’ on this journey!”
Did you discover the sunny aspect of winter and uncover the place to search out your slice of paradise on this listing? Tell us the nice and cozy winter trip within the USA you’re planning within the feedback.
