Between the busy, social media-driven itineraries created by influencers and a barrage of advertisements for tropical cruises, it can be challenging to find winter vacation destinations that qualify as your true happy place. Even if you love skiing and want to try every slope, some of the best-known destinations like Lake Tahoe are too crowded to enjoy.
However, there are many hidden treasures for winter getaways in the US. Experience the enchantment of pristine mountain lakes and nearly pristine forests in Idaho, or discover the quieter side of Hawaii in Hilo.
From spotless white-sand beaches on Florida’s west coast to the least visited time of year in California’s wine country, there are many choices for winter vacations without overwhelming crowds. Here are the eight most underrated places to visit in the US in the winter of 2023-2024.
Breckenridge, CO for Winter Paradise
One of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the world, Breckenridge, CO transforms into a winter wonderland between December and March every year. Try one of Breckenridge’s many après-ski experiences and don’t miss the town’s historic Main Street, lined with Victorian buildings filled with unique shops and delicious Colorado cuisine.
San Antonio, Texas for festivities
Immerse yourself in Texas history and the holiday spirit in San Antonio, Texas. Home to the Alamo, Missions and the famous 15-mile River Walk, San Antonio is a festive, beautiful winter destination.
San Antonio is also home to several historic missions. Book San Antonio River cruises and experience the beautiful surroundings, one level below the city streets, from the water.
Hilo, HI for tropical adventure
Between December and February, Hello the Big Island of Hawaii beckons with mild temperatures and authentic, traditional Hawaiian experiences. Explore waterfalls, lava fields, and stroll through tropical gardens in a beautiful and historic community in America’s 50th state.
Bend, OR for great skiing
Find pristine, fresh powder slopes at Bend’s ski resorts and Central Oregon’s national forest landscapes. Located in the volcanic Cascades, Bend is a prime winter sports and recreation destination about a half-hour drive from Mt. Bachelor and also close to Deschutes National Forest.
Napa Valley, CA for wine and romance
There are fewer crowds in California’s wine country in winter, but the weather is mild and sunny and there are excellent food and wine events every weekend. Between November and March, Napa Valley is a romantic, scenic destination for wine connoisseurs, foodies and nature lovers.
Napa has a charming late 19th-century downtown and is also the starting point of the Napa Valley Wine Train, which visits historic wineries and features classic Pullman cars.
McCall, ID for
Visit Payette Lake and the Winter Carnival in McCall, Idaho and experience ice skating on the frozen lake. McCall also offers snowmobile tours between December and February with beautiful unspoiled views of nature.
Jackson Hole, WY for winter sports
Jackson Hole says it is “the last of the old West,” and is the closest resort community to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. With an average of nearly 40 feet of snow per year, Jackson Hole’s resorts offer dozens winter sports activities.
Jackson Hole isn’t just about skiing and snowmobiling. It is also home to the National Museum of Wildlife Art and has a vibrant Western dining and nightlife scene.
Sarasota, FL for beaches and warm weather
Stroll along miles of white-sand beaches, including Siesta Key, and enjoy the freshest local seafood as you watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico in Sarasota. Although it has a reputation for attracting older “snowbirds,” Sarasota is home to the Ringling Art Museum and College and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, as well as charming shopping districts, including St. Armand’s Circle.
