Discover the Best Winter Vacations USA Has to Offer

If you’re on a quest for winter retreat ideas, ones that are rich in adventure but that also include a dash of seasonal magic, then this is your go-to guide to the best winter vacations in the USA, designed to inspire you. Whether you’re on the hunt for top winter destinations for sun or you’re looking to embrace the snowy surroundings of a fantastic winter-themed vacation escape, here’s a formidable shortlist of the best winter mini-breaks that can help you extend the holiday season well into January and February.

Swap the Snow for Sand in San Diego, California, this Winter

If you’re someone who craves sunshine or you simply love to escape the cold for a top winter vacation away, then San Diego, California, ranks among the best winter sun destinations you can visit. No matter if your ideal winter getaway sees you heading to its iconic family-friendly attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, or taking in the views on a sunset stroll along Pacific Beach and Mission Bay, San Diego has something for everyone here.

However, if you’re in town this winter, be sure to head down to Mitch’s Seafood restaurant to savor their fresh ocean-to-table tacos rooted in the area’s rich fishing heritage and time-honored traditions. Then, afterward, another superb winter treat is to head to Eppig Brewing Co.’s Waterfront Biergarten to sample their award-winning craft beers, entwined with nearly 150 years of brewing history, along with the venue’s magnificent views over the harbor.

Make your winter break unforgettable with a sunny winter escape to San Diego by relaxing and recharging your batteries every night at the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel and Marina on Shelter Island or the Best Western San Diego Pacific Beach/Mission Bay.

Calling Snow Lovers for an Alpine Trip Away to Winter Park, Colorado

Next on our shortlist of the best winter getaways to kick-start the new year sees us heading to Winter Park in Colorado, which not only benefits from the glorious mountain scenery but also a superb family-friendly atmosphere, making it one of the most beloved snow-season destinations in the US. Here you can unwind by hitting the slopes for an alpine ski and snowboard session at Winter Park Resort, or stroll down to Winter Park Village to enjoy some shopping before rewarding yourselves with a fine dining experience.

Whatever you choose to do, a trip to Winter Park just wouldn’t be complete unless you signed up for a scenic Snowcat and S’mores Tour at sunset with the splendid team at The Adventure and Supply Co. For those of you who also like to include some snow tubing action, be sure to head over to the Coca-Cola® Tube Hill for a session of day or night tubing to top off one of the most exciting wintertime experiences possible.

Be sure to hit the slopes and immerse yourselves in the countless snowy escapades on offer at this stunning winter vacation destination, before getting a brilliant night’s sleep, every night, at the Best Western Alpenglo Lodge Hotel in Winter Park.

Relish the Chill in Bemidji, Minnesota’s Winter Wonderland

Famous for being known as the “First City on the Mississippi”, our next destination offers visitors a winter mini-break filled with snowy lakeside views and an enthusiastic mix of captivating regional culture as we head to Bemidji, Minnesota. With nonstop winter fun all the while enjoying the strong community spirit always on display in Bemidji, this snowy northern gem easily makes it onto our shortlist of top winter vacation hotspots.

For fans of fishing, if you’d like to mix the spectacular scenery with your favorite hobby, then head out on an ice fishing tour with First City Guide Service to catch walleye, muskie, perch, and more under the guidance of seasoned pro Chaz Dobias. However, if you happen to be visiting in February, make sure you time your trip with the popular BRRRmidji Days festival, which includes snow sculpting, live entertainment, tons of kids’ events, and watch the famous BRRRmidji Plunge, where brave locals dive into the icy waters of Lake Bemidji.

Enjoy one of the best winter adventure retreats in the USA in Minnesota, and unwind after a day out on the ice fishing and appreciating the seasonal cheer by getting a great night’s sleep at the Best Western Bemidji.

Wintery Scenery at its Best in Siren, Wisconsin, Northwoods

Staying in the Northwoods region of the Upper Midwest, we head next to Siren, Wisconsin, to bask in the town’s unique Swedish heritage for a perfect escape for those of you seeking a peaceful winter vacation away. Here, you can settle down next to a roaring fire with panoramic views over the lakes, or wander into town and warm up with a hot chocolate or a hot buttered rum.

As a haven for lovers of the outdoors, we highly recommend the region’s excellent snowshoeing trails in nearby St. Croix Falls and Interstate State Park, where the snowy scenery and frozen waterfalls make for a mesmerizing backdrop. Alternatively, we’d also suggest heading across to the nearby Palmquist Farm, which has nearly 20 miles of groomed ski trails for an excellent cross-country ski adventure through the maple groves and cedar woods on the farm itself.

This year, experience the snowy serenity and Swedish charm of this top winter retreat in Siren, Wisconsin, while staying warm and cozy in style at the Best Western Northwoods Lodge.

A Legendary Winter Getaway to New York, New York

Our final travel destination on our list of incredible top winter vacation USA picks has to be the magical city of New York, famed for its dazzling skyline, majestic Central Park, and, of course, its vibrant nightlife. With its twinkling lights and snow-dusted streets, New York in winter is unquestionably a must-see destination, one that remains one of the world’s top city escapes at this time of year.

New York always transforms into a cinematic winter wonderland throughout January and February, with winter-themed highlights that include a trip to the top of the Empire State Building, ice skating at the world-famous Rockefeller Center, or taking in the sights during a Central Park stroll. Yet, while these iconic venues are certainly a must, if you’re looking for the perfect way to spend the evening in New York, New York, then you need to head to the city’s largest outdoor rooftop garden to enjoy a cocktail under the stars at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.

Discover why New York shines as one of the best US wintertime vacation destinations while enjoying the elegance and prestige at the Best Western Premier Empire State Hotel in New York, New York.