10 Best Things to Do in Winter in the US
Make the Most of Your Winter in the US
If you’re wondering about the best things to do on your winter vacation in the US, we have you covered. We have frosty adventures of all kinds. Go skiing in the snowy Rockies, skate by the most famous American Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center, or leave the beaten path far, far behind, and take a dog sledding tour in Alaska.
You can also make a complete U-turn and head south to stay warm and cozy. The beaches of Key West and food tours of New Orleans let you forget all about snow. These are just a few of the best things to do in winter in the US.
1. Ski Vail, Colorado
Expansive European-style ski resort in the Rockies
Good for: Couples, Families, Luxury
Vail, high up in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, is one of the most gorgeous places in the US to go skiing. It’s among the largest ski resorts in the world with more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and 3 villages to serve as your base areas. You’re certain to find a favorite among the 7 famous back bowls. They suit skiers of all skill levels.
After a thrilling day outdoors, you can sate your hunger in over 90 restaurants. There are also numerous shops to explore. When you’re ready to relax, you should visit the luxurious spas at either The Arrabelle or The Lodge at Vail.
Location: Colorado 81657, USA
Ski Vail, Colorado
2. Ice skate in New York City
Gliding on ice under famous city lights
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
For ice skating in New York, it’s hard to beat the rink at the Rockefeller Center for sheer legendary status. It is open from the first week of November and some dates can get sold out. If you skate there in December, you can admire the world-famous Christmas tree and its lighting. It’s far from the only great skating rink in town, however.
The Winter Village on Governors Island has a nice rink and other winter attractions. In Brooklyn, Prospect Park has 2 rinks, one covered, and one open-air. Back in Manhattan, you should check out the Wollman Rink in scenic Central Park. It even serves food from Melba’s Restaurant.
Location: New York, USA
Ice skate in New York City
3. Sunbathe in Key West, Florida
All the sunny beaches you could want
Good for: Couples, Families, Unusual
When you want to enjoy the sun and forget all about winter, Key West is the place. The average winter high temperature is a balmy 75℉ (24℃). The year-round sunshine makes it a safe bet for you to head to any of the beautiful white-sand beaches.
We recommend Smathers Beach, the largest free public beach, Straw Hat Beach if you prefer a quiet, secluded spot, and South Beach if you seek a family-friendly place with shallow waters. We know that some of you like to bring your beloved dog along when you travel. The aptly named Dog Beach allows your 4-legged friend to run free and go for a swim too.
Location: Florida 33040, USA
Sunbathe in Key West, Florida
4. Christmas in Breckenridge, Colorado
Classic Christmas among snowy peaks
Good for: Couples, Families, Food, Shoppers
Breckenridge, Colorado is a top choice when you simply want to experience a traditional Christmas in a beautiful picture-postcard destination. Snowy landscapes and forest? Lots of that. Great shopping, amazing decorations, and plenty of outdoor activities? Definitely plenty of these. You can enjoy all this while staying in a chalet or comfy mountain lodge. Fans of good food and apres-ski facilities will be well served too.
The town puts on a stunning light show every holiday season, starting with the Lighting of Breckenridge event in early December. The holiday spirit keeps going until the New Year when spectacular fireworks light up the sky.
Location: Colorado 80424, USA
Christmas in Breckenridge, Colorado
5. Snowboard on Mammoth Mountain, California
Awe-inspiring slopes and terrain parks
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families
Mammoth Mountain in California is one of the premier snowboarding locations in the US. It has vast and diverse terrain, and you will see plenty of snow every year, sometimes lasting into May. The Sierra Nevada landscape is simply stunning and all the easier for you to enjoy with 25 chairlifts and more than 150 named trails at your service.
You’ll find much more than snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain, too, with activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on offer. The range of accommodation goes from hotels to cabins, so you’re sure to find the right kind of home base for your winter adventures.
Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA
Snowboard on Mammoth Mountain, California
6. Soak at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Colorado
The world’s largest hot springs pool
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families, Luxury
Accept no substitutes: the hot springs at the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort are, simply put, the largest in the world. This historic destination has been in the pool house business since the late 1800s, but make no mistake, all the amenities are modern and comprehensive. The spa has a range of relaxing services. You can even stay on-site in the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, mere steps from the comfort of the pool.
The resort is open year-round and soaking in the hot water is especially picturesque with snow surrounding you. If you find the fortitude to explore further, Glenwood Springs has a variety of outdoor activities available. Wouldn’t it be great to go skiing and then bask in the pool?
Location: 415 E 6th St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, USA
Phone: +1 970-945-6571
Soak at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Colorado
7. Take a food tour of New Orleans
Delectable cuisine in southern warmth
Good for: Couples, Families, Food
The mild winters of New Orleans make it a comfortable place to properly enjoy a food tour. And the local cuisine is famous for a reason. It is diverse and delicious, shaped by Creole, Cajun, and other influences. In wintertime, you can find some seasonal specialties in the city’s historic restaurants and newer eateries.
The best food tours have very knowledgeable local guides who will tell you about the heritage of the tasty dishes you are sampling. When you want to take a break from even the most mouth-watering delicacies, you should check out the renowned jazz and blues scene of New Orleans. Sometimes the bands even play in the restaurant you are in.
Location: Louisiana, USA
Take a food tour of New Orleans
8. Hike Joshua Tree National Park, California
Stunning desert landscapes and starry skies
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Photo
Deserts are hot, but less so during the winter, which makes it the perfect time to go hiking in the Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll find trails to suit all fitness levels, so get out there and admire the unique landscape, including those Joshua trees. You can also view local wildlife including bighorn sheep and desert tortoises, but remember to keep a respectful distance.
Being respectful also means leaving no trace of your visit when you go hiking or camping. While resting in camp after a day’s trek, lie back and take in the incredibly crisp and clear night sky. Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park meaning there’s almost no light pollution to spoil your view.
Location: California, USA
Phone: +1 760-367-5500
Hike Joshua Tree National Park, California
9. Ice fishing at Lake of the Woods, Minnesota
Popular destination for rewarding winter fishing
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Unusual
For a change of pace, head out to Lake of the Woods in Minnesota and try your hand at ice fishing. The huge lake extends into the province of Ontario in Canada, so you might need a license from both countries. Check the regulations and ice conditions before heading out and pack your ice safety gear, too. Guidance and equipment are available locally.
The lake is home to many fish species including perch, walleye, and northern pike. If you rent a heated icehouse with a stove, it will not only keep you comfortable, but you can also cook your catch right there on the ice. You can’t eat fish any fresher than that.
Location: Minnesota, USA
Ice fishing at Lake of the Woods, Minnesota
10. Dog Sled in Fairbanks, Alaska
Adventures in a pristine frozen wilderness
Good for: Couples, Families, Adventure
Fairbanks is a hub for dog sledding (also known as mushing) tour operators. You can book anything from a short trip to an adventure lasting several days. Dog sledding is a traditional method of transport in the far north. It lets you get really close to the Alaskan wilderness and take some beautiful photos you couldn’t get anywhere else.
Many operators let you meet and pet the dogs, but you should always ask first, though. You will usually be provided with warm insulated clothing and boots, but it’s still wise to prepare and dress for the cold by wearing several layers.
Location: Alaska, USA
Dog Sled in Fairbanks, Alaska
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