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When the weather outside is frightful, do you grab your sled and head for the hills, or are you a going south for the winter kind of person? There’s no wrong way to do winter, except for not having fun. Whether grab your skis at the first sign of snow, or you fill up your storage unit and snowbird somewhere sunny, there’s so much to love about winter.
Check out some of the best places in the U.S. to spend winter — from sunny, mild climates to powdery winter wonderlands.
1. Los Angeles, California
If you want to know which state has the best weather year-round, set your sights on California. Avoid the depths of snow-season with some of the best winter weather in the country. Los Angeles is the perfect place for showing off the fun sweaters you pulled out of storage, because you don’t need to layer up with a heavy coat. Even Old Man Winter thinks LA is a great place to lay low, because he’s obviously taking it easy. Even still, you’ll find Angelinos observing the season with their own version of California coziness.
One Word: Ramen
Ramen is comfort food in LA, and there’s no better place to find it than in Little Tokyo at locally loved Shin Sen Gumi. Order your favorite noodles any way you want them, but don’t give in to the food coma. Max Karaoke Studio is a short walk away, for some after-dinner ballad belting.
When that sunshine and warm weather have you wishing for something frosty and refreshing, scoot over to The Thunderbolt in Echo Park for some Southern hospitality, great drinks, and good BBQ. LA is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, no matter what your craving, you will find a great location to dine or drink on vacation.
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Santa Fe is stunning during the winter. And what’s more, the temperatures are mild enough for outdoor adventurers, with enough majestic places to hit the slopes. Once you’ve skied mountains under Santa Fe skies, you may never go back. At Ski Santa Fe, you’ll find picture-perfect scenery, mellow crowds, and great terrain.
To Ski or Not to Ski
Though Santa Fe is one of the most unique places in the U.S. to ski, there’s plenty to do off the slopes as well. This historical Southwest city is home to generations of Native American traditions and art. The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture has beautiful examples of Native works, from intricate beading to masterful weaving to priceless pottery. If you need some post-holiday R&R, the healing waters at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs will sort you out just fine.
Christmas dinner takes on a new meaning here. “Christmas” is the way to order both the green and red chile the region is famous for. Try La Choza for chile dishes like the tamale plate that are worthy of a holiday feast. For a cozy evening on the town, Rio Chama Steakhouse’s front room fireplace and a festive drink—like the fig Manhattan—will warm you up inside and out.
3. Phoenix, Arizona
Though this city doesn’t get cold by many people’s standards, desert chill is no joke. Luckily, the crisp, clear air is just right for looking out over desert scenes as far as the eye can see. Head to trails like Holbert at South Mountain for refreshing winter hiking. The sprawling city is a smorgasbord of things to do, where your options are plenty for shopping, dining, and playing.
Three, Two, Fun
Phoenix has a musical streak, which you can catch at venues around town such as the Crescent Ballroom. Feel the beat at the Musical Instrument Museum, which displays special exhibitions and permanent collections of rare, unusual, and famous instruments. The Phoenix Symphony can help get you in the holiday spirit during their performance of Handel’s Messiah through mid-December.
If you need a little frost in your life, head north to Arizona SnowBowl, a snowy winter playground. Sled, ski, or snowboard the day away, then warm your toes back in Phoenix at The Breadfruit & Rum Bar for hot buttered rum. For some twinkly magic, visit Lights of the World, a lantern festival exploring global cultures and cuisine that will be a highlight of your season.
4. Key West, Florida
Winter is the perfect time to visit Key West, it’s not too hot or too cold, it’s just right for the holiday season. Celebrate the holiday on the beach with a nice drink or head out snorkeling! Key West is packed with activities that are great for the family too. You can check out the Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, take a trip on a glass bottom boat, or take a trip through history at the Hemingway House.
Get your shop on in Mallory Square, where the views of the sunset are to die for and spend your evening checking out some of the best cuisine in town. We recommend checking out the Hot Tin Roof Restaurant and trying the incredible bread pudding. No matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, Key West has options for you.
5. St. George, Utah
St. George is home base for exploring Zion National Park, which is even more spectacular come winter, when white snowcaps make striking contrast with red rock peaks. The calm vibes of the town and the surrounding bounty of natural wonders make St. George a perfect winter destination for taking in the season’s quiet beauty.
Winter Wins
Around St. George, winter is arguably the best time of year. Features like the winter-only hike in Snow Canyon are the kind of seasonal activity that make it so special. There’s also a lot to do indoors, like St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, where you can explore natural wonders away from the cold.
The town also knows how to get in the holiday spirit, so come late November through December to see Holiday Inn at the St. George Musical Theater or the holiday lights at Red Hills Desert Garden.
If your eyes are as hungry as you are, Cliffside Restaurant serves up comfort food and stellar views. Or, warm up with spicy curry and other divine dishes at Red Fort Cuisine of India. The only thing better than a day of exploration is closing it out with the perfect meal.
6. Burlington, Vermont
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As the state’s biggest city, Burlington represents with shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities, all with signature Vermont charm. Winter brings chilly weather, holiday lights, and a bundled-up community who don’t let a little wind and snow keep them at home. Vermont is one of the best places to live if you love winter, and you should discover why!
A+ Winter in B-town
The center of the action any time of year isChurch Street Marketplace, but it really comes to life around the holidays. Historical architecture is lined with lights, and over 75 local boutiques are filled with goods to top any Christmas list. Post-holidays, Winter Lights keep things sparkly February-April.
As America’s winter playground, Vermont is the snow sports mother lode. Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and, of course, skiing, are first-rate here. Adventure companies like Snowmobile Vermont show you why this is one of the best places to spend winter months.J
7. Dallas, Texas
Winter in Dallas is relatively mild, so for all of you interested in snow-birding this year, this is the city for you. Treat yourself to a relaxing winter getaway or look into making it more permanent. There are definite perks to moving in the winter, especially to a city like Dallas that has enough events, activities, and cultural attractions to keep you busy through the post-holiday doldrums.
D is for Delightful
Dallas also goes by “Big D,” and when it comes to the variety of things to do, the city delivers in a big way. The holidays get super festive at the Dallas Arboretum, which features a Christmas village modeled after European Christmas markets. Throughout February, it feels like spring comes early when the blooms begin during Dallas Blooms.
Dallas is also delicious, housing every type of restaurant you could want. Winter is just right at Henry’s Majestic, with its three cozy fireplaces and hearty American plates. Share a toast to the season at Veritas Wine Room, where you can sample small plates and wines from around the world. Whether you want to escape winter’s chill, or you embrace all things frosty, some places on the U.S. offer superior seasonal experiences. Ask the residents why they think their cities are the best places to live in the winter; you may just be convinced a move is in your future!
