February is one of those seasons when you try to keep warm at home or decide to brighten up your daily life with an exciting holiday.
You can enjoy the mountains still covered in snow, attend events, party or go somewhere warm, the options are endless even in February. Additionally, popular destinations tend to experience fewer crowds and better deals.
We’ve put together a list of the 12 best places to visit in the US in February. So read on and find out what they are.
Big heavens, Montana
Spread over 5,850 skiable acres in the Northern Rockies, Big Sky is one of the largest winter resorts in North America. It even calls itself the ‘largest ski area in America’, but it is certainly not only this sport that you can practice here.
Other popular activities in the area include sledding, snowmobiling, ice skating, hiking or cross-country skiing. The après-ski scene is also very good in Big Sky.
Additionally, the famous Yellowstone National Park is just an hour’s drive away.
Alta, Utah
Located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Alt is another top class ski area. It offers plenty of steep, expert terrain, as well as rabbit hills suitable for beginners. Never been on skis before? Alta also has excellent ski schools.
In February, Alta receives the largest amounts of snowfall. That is why the slopes are always covered with fresh, soft powder snow.
Before you head to Atla, you should know that it is a ski mountain and snowboarding is not allowed there.
San Diego, California
There’s also something for city wanderers. Come enjoy the sun-drenched sandy beaches and ocean activities in vibrant San Diego.
Temperatures hover around 65 degrees, so you’ll never get too hot. The city is also less crowded and prices for accommodation are more affordable than in summer. You can also save on museum tickets: more than 40 museums offer a 50% discount on admission during museum month.
Additionally, February offers plenty of events to attend. Celebrate the Chinese New Year in the Old Town, take part in the Vietnamese Tet Music Festival, the Bird Festival or the San Diego International Jewish Festival – as you can see, you will never be bored in San Diago.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is another place that deserves to be mentioned in our list and is an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor parties. Mardi Gras is an annual event that takes place all over Louisiana, but the most stunning is in New Orleans.
The streets come alive with music, art, huge parades and costumes. However, be prepared for busy crowds that can even become overwhelming for some. In addition, accommodation may become more expensive than normal.
Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
If you like to be pampered at spas and enjoy long walks in nature, then you should visit Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. It is the oldest area in the national park system and features an array of medicinal hot springs.
There is no possibility to enter the thermal water outside. But they are led straight to Bathhouse Row for you to enjoy.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the 42 kilometers of hiking trails that lead through beautiful forest scenery and offer fantastic mountain views.
San Antonio, Texas
Are you traveling with your family? We also have something for you. San Antonio is a growing metropolis that is definitely worth exploring, especially in February when the weather is much more pleasant than in the hot summer.
San Antonio has a rich colonial heritage. One of the most famous sights is the Alamo, an 18th-century Spanish mission that now serves as a museum. Another great place to explore is the River Walk – a promenade lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, boutique hotels and shops.
In the northern part of the city there is also Six Flags Siesta Texas – an amusement park with rides and a water park, a good option for those with lively children.
Kirkwood, California
When you say California, the first things that come to mind are beautiful state parks, lush vineyards and exciting surf spots. But did you know that you can also enjoy winter sports in the Golden State?
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is located not far from Lake Tahoe and is easily accessible. The most snow falls in February. It is known for a wide choice of terrains for both beginners and professionals, plus affordable prices.
You can also explore Kirkwood via a cross-country ski trail or go on a snowshoe adventure.
St. John, US Virgin Islands
If you don’t mind traveling too far and are looking for a place to sunbathe, try St. John in the US Virgin Islands this time.
It features beautiful, tranquil beaches, unspoilt nature and a number of outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking.
St. John is the smallest of the three major American islands and has no airport, so you’ll need to take a ferry from nearby St. Thomas.
For a change of scenery, you can also spend a few days on St. Thomas, enjoy the beaches, golf courses and nightlife, and then head to St. John.
Boynton Canyon, Boynton Canyon
In winter, Arizona’s Boynton Canyon offers a quieter visit, with its prominent red rock formations providing a serene backdrop. This season sees fewer visitors, making it an ideal time for those looking for a peaceful experience. To reach Boynton Canyon, travelers can drive to Sedona, Arizona and follow signs to Boynton Canyon Trail, located just a short distance from the city center. The trail provides easy access to the natural beauty of the canyon.
Oahu, Hawaii
The professional surfing competitions on Oahu’s north shore make it one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands to visit in February. The North Shore also has a thriving food truck culture!
In a week you will have plenty of time to explore the best parts of Oahu. Visit Pearl Harbor, snorkel in the famous Hanauma Bay and learn to surf in Waikiki, near Honolulu.
Travelers can find a little bit of everything in Oahu. In Honolulu there are many shops, bars and empty, undeveloped beaches.
Hiking on Oahu is a paradise. Easy out-and-back hikes to destinations like the summit of Diamond Head, secluded beach walks, and hikes with inclines for serious hikers are all available.
Biscayne National Park in Florida
Biscayne National Park in Florida it is best to visit in February. The park contains the northernmost part of Florida’s reef and is 95 percent water.
A snorkeling or diving trip to see the coral, fish and perhaps even a shipwreck is a highlight.
The best time to do this is February, when the weather is fairly cool and dry and there is no hurricane season.
A kayak tour through the mangrove swamps that surround the islands is also an option, as is a climb up Elliott Key, the largest of the islands.
Not only is it cooler in February, but there are also far fewer insects that bother hikers and paddlers.
Santa Barbara, California
This beautiful oceanfront city, surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains, is the perfect place to escape the snowy patches.
Because February is typically less busy than the busiest summer months, it’s easier for travelers to find affordable accommodation.
The weather in February is perfect for hiking enthusiasts exploring Chumash Painted Cave State Park. Wine tasting is another exciting activity in the Santa Barbara area. There are numerous wineries in the region. Look for lots of new wines in February as it is right after the grape harvest.
