15 Magical U.S. Winter Destinations for Your Holiday Escape
Winter is here, bringing with it a world of festive lights, snow-capped peaks, and cozy fireside retreats. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a relaxation enthusiast, or a holiday romantic, we’ve rounded up 15 amazing winter destinations across the U.S. for every kind of traveler. Read on to discover where to embrace the magic of the season!
Top U.S. Winter Destinations for Skiers
1. Aspen, Colorado – A Snowy Paradise for Ski Lovers
Aspen is a world-renowned ski destination that transforms into a winter wonderland every year. With powdery slopes, high-end shopping, and gourmet dining, Aspen offers the perfect balance of adventure and luxury.
What to Do: Hit the slopes at Aspen Mountain or Buttermilk, and enjoy après-ski dining at the popular Ajax Tavern.
Local Highlights: Experience the annual Aspen Snowmass Winter Celebration, featuring outdoor concerts and festivities.
Where to Stay: Check into the luxurious Hotel Jerome or the more budget-friendly Limelight Hotel.
Top Tip: Take a snowcat dinner tour to Buttermilk Mountain for a unique dining experience!
2. Northstar California, North Lake Tahoe – Family-Friendly Festive Fun
This Lake Tahoe gem is known for its scenic ski trails, charming village, and fun-filled holiday activities. Enjoy ice skating, festive events, and cozy mountain lodges.
What to Do: Ski or snowboard on varied terrain, then unwind at the Village ice skating rink.
Local Highlights: Northstar’s holiday celebrations include outdoor movie nights and holiday crafts for kids.
Where to Stay: The Northstar California Resort offers ski-in/ski-out accommodations for ultimate convenience.
Top Tip: Enjoy the rink-side fire pits in the Village for a warm break after skating.
Charming Holiday Villages You’ll Love
3. Stowe, Vermont – Classic New England Winter Charm
Stowe is a picturesque New England town with snowy peaks and historic architecture, making it ideal for a peaceful winter escape.
What to Do: Ski the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort and explore the quaint shops and cafés in the village.
Local Highlights: The Stowe Winter Carnival features fun events like a parade and ice sculpting.
Where to Stay: The Stowe Mountain Lodge offers luxurious amenities, while the Green Mountain Inn provides charming, cozy accommodations.
Top Tip: Stroll along Main Street to admire the charming holiday lights and take postcard-worthy photos.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming – A Wildlife and Winter Wonderland
Home to both expert ski slopes and the breathtaking National Elk Refuge, Jackson Hole is perfect for nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts.
What to Do: Ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and don’t miss a snowshoe trek in Grand Teton National Park.
Local Highlights: The Jackson Hole Winter Games showcases local athletes in a festive atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole for luxury or the Cowboy Village Resort for a unique cabin experience.
Top Tip: Take a sleigh ride through the Elk Refuge for an up-close look at winter wildlife.
Unique Winter Getaways
5. Leavenworth, Washington – A Bavarian Village Come to Life
This charming village in Washington feels like stepping into a European holiday market. With Bavarian-inspired architecture and vibrant holiday lights, Leavenworth is an enchanting holiday spot.
What to Do: Enjoy shopping in unique shops, and try the delicious German cuisine at local restaurants.
Local Highlights: The Village of Lights festival features millions of twinkling lights illuminating the streets.
Where to Stay: The Bavarian Lodge offers cozy rooms with a view of the mountains.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the holiday tree lighting ceremony for a true community celebration!
6. Sunriver Resort, Oregon – A Relaxed Winter Retreat
Set in the Cascade Mountains, Sunriver Resort offers a peaceful winter escape with options for skiing, ice skating, and fireside lounging.
What to Do: Take advantage of the cross-country ski trails and enjoy a hot cocoa by the fire.
Local Highlights: Visit the Sunriver Holiday Market for local crafts and treats.
Where to Stay: Choose from a variety of rental homes or stay at the upscale Sunriver Resort Hotel.
Top Tip: Book a snowshoe tour to explore the stunning winter landscape up close.
Warmer Winter Destinations
7. New York City, New York – Iconic Holiday Spirit in the Big Apple
NYC is brimming with holiday cheer. From Rockefeller Center’s massive Christmas tree to Central Park’s ice rink, New York City is an urban winter playground.
What to Do: Ice skate at Rockefeller Center and take a stroll through Central Park.
Local Highlights: The holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue are a must-see!
Where to Stay: Consider The Peninsula or Hotel 50 Bowery for great locations.
Top Tip: For a classic NYC experience, visit the famous holiday markets for unique gifts.
8. Breckenridge, Colorado – A Festive Mountain Town
Breckenridge, known for its laid-back ski culture, is decorated with holiday lights and festivities all season long, making it a favorite winter destination.
What to Do: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and exploring the historic downtown area.
Local Highlights: The Breckenridge Snow Sculpture Championships in January are not to be missed.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Beaver Run Resort for easy access to the slopes.
Top Tip: Check out the holiday lights in town every evening for a festive atmosphere.
Warm Winter Getaways
9. North Pole, Alaska – A Christmas Town All Year Round
Yes, there’s a real North Pole in Alaska! This town celebrates Christmas year-round, but it becomes even more magical in the winter.
What to Do: Visit Santa Claus House for holiday-themed shopping and festive displays.
Local Highlights: The annual Christmas in Ice festival features ice sculptures and activities.
Where to Stay: The North Pole Inn offers cozy accommodations close to local attractions.
Top Tip: Stop by during the winter months to experience the enchanting Christmas lights.
10. Gatlinburg, Tennessee – A Cozy Smoky Mountain Retreat
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is perfect for a peaceful holiday getaway with winter hikes, scenic drives, and cozy cabins.
What to Do: Enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg, and explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Local Highlights: The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Festival features beautiful light displays throughout the town.
Where to Stay: Choose a cabin rental for a cozy experience or stay at the Park Vista for stunning views.
Top Tip: Take a drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for stunning winter mountain views.
More Magical Destinations
11. Charleston, South Carolina – A Mild Weathered Holiday Destination
If snow isn’t your style, Charleston offers a warmer yet festive holiday experience with historic homes decorated in holiday lights.
What to Do: Take a historic walking tour and visit the local shops for unique gifts.
Local Highlights: The Festival of Lights at James Island County Park features millions of dazzling lights.
Where to Stay: The Spectator Hotel offers luxury accommodations in the heart of the historic district.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the carriage ride through the historic streets, beautifully lit for the holidays.
12. Chicago, Illinois – A Festive City on Lake Michigan
Chicago’s holiday magic shines with its famed Christkindlmarket, ice skating rinks, and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
What to Do: Visit the Christkindlmarket for unique gifts and delicious food.
Local Highlights: The annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off the holiday season in style.
Where to Stay: The Langham Chicago offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the skyline.
Top Tip: Try the hot cocoa at Christkindlmarket for an authentic taste of German holiday cheer.
Unique Winter Experiences
13. Whitefish, Montana – Winter Wonderland Near Glacier National Park
Whitefish offers some of the most scenic views in the U.S., with winter adventures in Glacier National Park and nearby ski resorts.
What to Do: Ski at Whitefish Mountain Resort or explore the trails at Glacier National Park.
Local Highlights: The Whitefish Winter Carnival features a parade and winter activities.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Whitefish Lake offers cozy accommodations with a beautiful setting.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity for a snowshoe hike in Glacier for breathtaking winter scenery.
14. Park City, Utah – Skiing and Sundance
Park City is not just known for its ski resorts but also for the Sundance Film Festival in January.
What to Do: Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort and explore the historic Main Street.
Local Highlights: The Sundance Film Festival brings a unique artistic flair to the winter season.
Where to Stay: The Waldorf Astoria Park City offers luxurious accommodations right next to the slopes.
Top Tip: Visit during the Sundance Festival for a chance to see celebrities and indie films.
15. Santa Fe, New Mexico – A Cultural Winter Retreat
Santa Fe is known for its art scene and rich cultural history, providing a unique winter escape.
What to Do: Visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and explore the local artisan shops.
Local Highlights: The annual Santa Fe Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony is a community favorite.
Where to Stay: The Inn of the Five Graces offers a blend of luxury and cultural charm.
Top Tip: Try the traditional New Mexican holiday cuisine for a delightful culinary experience.
These 15 winter destinations across the U.S. offer something for every traveler this holiday season. Whether you seek snow-covered adventures or charming holiday vibes, there’s a perfect getaway waiting for you.
Special Note:
This November marks the anniversary month of Arobone Adventures, and we’re excited to announce that thrilling deals are coming soon! Stay tuned for exclusive offers that will make your holiday travel even more special!
