19 Amazing Places To Visit In January USA

1. Breckenridge, Colorado

On my trip to this historic mountain town in January it was peak ski season with deep powder covering the slopes (this month and February is when the average snowfall is at its highest).

I was in awe of how the town transformed into an Instagram-worthy snowy paradise with festive winter vibes all around town, magical snow-dusted scenery, and cozy après-ski spots lining Main Street, to me it was the perfect snowy mountain escape in the heart of the Rockies! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: The Breckenridge Welcome Centre, 203 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424, Phone: 877 864 0868
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -2°C to -12°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge – I loved that it had four private movie theaters, amazing Ski-In/Ski-Out location and the cozy stone fireplace in the The Boot Saloon! 
• Stopping off for an oatmilk Gingerbread Latte and a Red Velvet cupcake at the cozy Clint’s Bakery & Coffee House. 

2. Palm Desert, California

I loved taking a taking a trip to this stylish desert city during this month as I got to experience warm desert sun and lots of vitamin D when most of the Northern Hemisphere was hunkered down for winter. 

I found that the temperatures were much more comfortable for hiking the scenic desert trails, discovering all the outdoor activities and teeing off on lush golf courses surrounded by mountain views without the scorching summer heat or peak-season crowds.

I was pleasantly surprised by how many events were on in the area too. There was the Palm Springs International Film Festival, the vibrant Taste of Jalisco Festival, the colorful Southwest Arts Festival, and the weekly Palm Springs VillageFest.

I drove two hours from Los Angeles and took a sunny for days break. I hiked the challenging Bump and Grind Trail, browsed luxury boutiques and galleries along El Paseo, and went for a relaxing floating session at the Desert Serenity Float & Spa.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 73510 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 15°C to 22°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the cool and creative Hotel Paseo – I loved the trendy poolside cabana bar and staying in their awesome 1950 Airstream Trailer Suite which came with a blue striped awning and cute red deckchairs!

3. Zion National Park, Utah

This stunning national park experiences mild winters compared to other national parks so I decided to take a winter trip here! In January, I found Zion National Park the cooler temperatures make hiking the trails much comfortable than the summer months.

I loved how the red rock cliffs looked especially striking dusted with snow, and there were far fewer crowds I experienced peaceful, crowd-free landscapes that let me fully soak in the park’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.

I found that there were many walking trails accessible in the winter months (there was just no shuttle system in operation during January).

I drove 2.5 hours northeast from Las Vegas and explored for a wonderful five days. I hike the crowd-free trails of Angels Landing and Watchman Trail in cool, crisp air, took a journey along the scenic Zion Canyon Drive, and enjoyed peaceful photography spots at Court of the Patriarchs and the Emerald Pools all with easy parking!

• Visitors Center Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Zion National Park, UT 84767 Phone: (435) 772-3256
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 8°C to 13°C

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking to the Observation Point, I loved the incredible panoramic park views via the scenic East Mesa Trail.

4. Big Sky, Montana

January was a great month to visit this picturesque mountain town because I saw it had transformed into a snowy winter wonderland. I absolutely adored the deep powder and breathtaking views of the Madison Range, and the world-class skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort, peaceful Nordic trails and having fewer crowds than other major ski destinations. 

The winter evenings (which ranged from December to February) were just perfect for cozying up in log cabins by roaring fires or taking part in some awesome local events – there was the New Year’s Day Brunch at Montage Big Sky which was filled with seasonal dishes and a Mimosa cart, and the fun Winter Karaoke nights which took place every Friday at Waypoint. 

I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drive one hour south and my winter stay lasted five days. That was enough to go skiing and explore the peaceful snowshoe and Nordic trails at Lone Mountain Ranch.

I also took a scenic winter wildlife tour into Yellowstone National Park, and tried out the cozy après-ski spots – Everett’s 8800 was my favorite!

• Visitors Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -9°C to -3°C

My favorite highlights…

• Going snowshoeing the scenic Ousel Falls Trailhead and discovering an incredible frozen waterfall! 
• Exploring the unique boutiques in the town center, I especially loved the trendy jewelry in the Rhinestone Cowgirl store. 

5. Miami, Florida

Miami is a popular year-round destination, but I personally loved taking a winter vacation here in January.  I really like that the weather was warm and sunny weather and perfect for relaxing on the beach and dining al fresco but it was all without the intense summer heat or hurricane season worries! 

I also enjoyed that there was no summer vacationers and spring-breakers this time of year and that I also found gorgeous hotel stays but at more budget-friendly prices. It didn’t mean it was a boring time of year though, I found that great events were on, these included the lively South Beach Jazz Festival, the iconic Art Deco Weekend celebrating Miami’s architectural heritage, the satirical King Mango Strut Parade in Coconut Grove, and the dazzling Luminosa lantern display at Jungle Island!

I flew into Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) and spent a week long vacation there! I made the most of the warm sub-tropical climate and seven of hours of sunshine each day and relaxed on sun-soaked South Beach. I also explored the pastel-colored Art Deco Historic District, the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood Walls, and enjoyed open-air dining along Ocean Drive!

• Visitors Center Address: 530 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
• Map Location
• Average temperature -18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the funky Pelican Hotel – I stayed in the very cool Executive Zebra which was adorned with retro-chic zebra prints and quirky original art!

6. Hunting Island, South Carolina

I took a short break here during the winter and I experienced peaceful beaches, mild winter temperatures, and quiet forested trails so it was a wonderful serene escape, with migratory birds and dolphin spotting and atmospheric coastal views.

I also loved that the accommodation prices were cheaper and there were no summer crowds so it felt like I almost had the island to myself! Going this out of season really was a great choice! There was also the awesome events which included the spirited Pelican Plunge at Hunting Island State Park on New Year’s Day, the festive Oyster Boogie 5K through historic downtown Beaufort, and the Tides to Table Restaurant Week which showcased Lowcountry cuisine across the Beaufort area.

I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), then drove 1.5 hours northeast and stayed for a peaceful long weekend. I walked the quiet, driftwood-strewn beach, climbed the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse and saw beautiful ocean views, and spotted wildlife along the Marsh Boardwalk Trail. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 16°C

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the unique scenery on the Lighthouse Trail and then climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse. I loved the picturesque view overlooking the coast and nearby islands.

7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

I found out that this premier ski destination was an awesome place to visit during this month – there was deep powder snow, sunny bluebird days, and incredible lake views, a lively après-ski scenes and access to both superb outdoor adventure and vibrant nightlife on the California-Nevada border.

The skiing conditions were just right as it was post-Christmas holidays and the slopes had plenty of time to develop a thick base of snow, which got regularly topped with fresh layers as the month went on! I also got to join in the incredible Heavenly Holidays New Year’s Celebration which had impressive fireworks and live music.

I flew into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), then drove an hour and stayed for a dreamy week. I went skiing while gazing at stunning views of Lake Tahoe on the Ridge and Skyline Trail, rode the Heavenly Gondola to the scenic observation deck, went tubing and enjoyed snow play at Adventure Peak, and unwound with live music, drinks, and dining at Heavenly Village.

• Visitor Center Address: Explore Tahoe Visitor Center 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -6°C to 4°C 

My personal highlights…

• Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski Party, where the atmosphere was electric, the DJs were fantastic, and the Slope Slider cocktails were superb – all at an exhilarating 9,150 feet above sea level!
• Enjoying the Instagram-worthy views at the observation tower! 

8. Brunswick and The Golden Isles, Georgia

I was completely captivated by the gorgeous The Golden Isles! It’s home to the charming city of Brunswick and the dreamy barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.

Located along Georgia’s Atlantic Coast, I adored the scenery here which consisted of gorgeous marshlands, thick green forests and long, wide sandy beaches. 

I thought the off-peak season was an excellent time to visit, as I avoided the summer crowds and found some awesome discounts on accommodation (which ranged from cozy inns to luxury resorts). 

I was actually crazy about the breathtaking views, the interesting historic landmarks, the long, wide golf courses and the superb southern hospitality! 

• Visitor Center Address: 2017 Lee St, Brunswick, GA 31520
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 16°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Catching a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in the Old Town, I loved the retro decor!
• Exploring the art galleries and interesting museums, my favorites were the Glynn Visual Arts and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.
• Spending a night camping at Jekyll Island Campground – it was awesome to gaze at the unpolluted starry skies at night!

9. Payette National Forest, Idaho

Based in central-western Idaho, the Payette National Forest is home to 2.3 million acres of peaceful natural beauty and I personally thought it made a fantastic alternative to the bigger-name ski resorts like Aspen.

It’s blessed with 300 inches of snow annually and I found it offered a huge range of fun winter activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, fat biking and even winter camping!

I was also a big fan of the indoor activities and I found they included spa resorts, art galleries, museums, shopping, craft breweries and fun indoor ice skating.

• Visitors Center Address: 500 N Mission St, McCall 83638
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -6°C to 1°C

My highlights…

• Taking beginner snowboarding lessons which was a lot of fun despite having many falls!
• Going on a fun snowmobile tour with Brundage Snowmobile Adventures – the snowy scenery was magical!
• Learning about the county’s interesting history and native tribes at Payette County Museum – I loved seeing the vintage clothing, old school memorabilia, and tools used by early settlers.

10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

This paradise-like coastal town is located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. I thought it was a seriously dreamy spot filled with blue skies and a tropical climate.

During the summer months (June to October) it can get extremely hot, so the more pleasant temperatures this month provided the perfect opportunity to enjoy its soft, white, powdery beaches. It’s also actually one of the warmest places in the country during this time of year and I adore coming here for some winter sun and to get some much needed Vitamin D!

I loved just sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, shopping, relaxing at the spa resorts, hiking the scenic trails, exploring the farmer’s markets, soaking up the laid-back vibes and visiting the famous Akaka Falls, which stands at 442 feet high.

• Visitors Center Address: Big Island Guide 73-4318 Keokeo St, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 27°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the boutique PACIFIC 19 Kona – I loved the unique styling and the little details like the award-winning baristas and my in-Room Macrobar where I could buy everything from drinks to sunblock! 
• Going on the incredible Kīlauea Experience with Native Hawaiian Tour – it was amazing to see the rainforests, volcanic steam vents, huge cliff overlooks, and lava tubes on a friendly guided tour! 
• Discovering the uniquely beautiful Punaluu Black Sand Beach after buying food for a picnic from the cute little Punalu’u Bake Shop.

11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah

Located in Wasatch Mountains of Utah, I thought these two magical resorts were a skiers paradise! Offering some of the best opportunities for winter activities in the whole country, Alta averages 550 inches of snow annually, so the season is very long and varied.

Snowbird is located a mile from Alta and is famous for having a all-year-round ski season – it lasts over 200 days! I loved its wide array of slopes and that all levels of skiing abilities were welcome here.

This month sees heavy snowfall in both resorts which I saw covered the top of an already thick covering. I also loved the bright, clear days which enabled me to see stunning panoramic views in all their glory as I headed up and down the ski lift!

• Visitors Center Address: 9260 E Lodge Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092 Phone: (801) 933-2222
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -9°C to -1°C

My personal highlights…

• Indulging in Great Salt Lake Body Polish at the upscale Cliff Spa – I loved that it used minerals from the Great Salt Lake. 
• Going on a guided ski tour with Snowcat skiing . It was awesome to discover the tranquil backcountry trails in the robust, all-terrain vehicle which navigated the deep snow really easily!

12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

This surreally beautiful spot always wows me and I love exploring here in the winter. Located in southern New Mexico, this protected area is home to one world’s largest gypsum dunefield! 

I found seemingly endless stretches of bright white sand, unique species of fauna and flora that incredibly survive in these inhospitable conditions and active dunes which move at a rate of up to 30 feet per year.

I found it was too hot to visit here in summer and much preferred to visit this unique gem during the winter when the temperatures were much more comfortable and I found far fewer crowds.

• Visitor Center Address: 19955 US-70 W, Alamogordo, NM 88310 Phone: (575) 479-6124
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 4°C to 13°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Sledging down the sand dunes which was a fun experience – I just had to make sure I covered my face as sand got everywhere!
• Spending two nights camping under the unbelievably clear starry skies at Campsite #1 (there are ten campsites in total to choose from).

13. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California that borders the Great Basin Desert and is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet. Temperatures are extremely hot and can be dangerous in the summer, so I visited during this month instead.

On my visit, I loved seeing the incredible salt flat Badwater Basin, Dante’s View (which had stunning views), the extraordinary Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the interesting historic mansion Scotty’s Castle, hiking the over Golden Canyon and seeing incredible views and spotting desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and the tiny pupfish which I saw living in the pools that were saltier than seawater!

• Visitor Center Address: 328 Greenland Blvd, Death Valley, CA 92328 Phone: (760) 786-3200
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 19°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a drive along Artists Drive and discovering the beautiful colorful rock formations in Artists Palette.
• Stargazing in a sky free from light pollution! 
• Catching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the most iconic places in the valley. The unique panoramic views were really beautiful!

14. San Diego, California

I adore San Diego in the off-peak season because it’s home to a year-round Mediterranean-like climate with plenty of sunshine! 

Yes of course I did find the temperatures were a lot cooler compared with other months, but they were still pleasant and for me it was a great escape from cold, dreary weather.

When here, I made the most of the beautiful beaches (it was warm enough to lounge on them even this time of year!), the award-winning restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent artistic and cultural attractions, which were much more enjoyable to explore without the summer crowds!

I also managed to squeeze in the stunning Balboa Park, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, the pretty Japanese Botanical Gardens, and the historic Old Town.

• Visitor Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 19°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the Pearl Hotel – I loved the trendy, unique design, the oyster-shaped saltwater pool, the poolside weekly “Dive-In” movie nights and the artwork inspired by Japanese female pearl divers!  
• Exploring the 4-mile-long trails in the beautiful Botanic Gardens which took me past a towering bamboo forest! 
• Visiting the Old Town and dining on homemade polbano pepper corn dough quesadillas at the traditional but quirky El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria. 

15. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas

Located off the coast of Texas, South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island and I was a huge fan of its soft sandy beaches, calm waters and dolphin-watching boat tours. A short trip away is Port Isabel, which is separated from the shores of South Padre Island by the 2.6-mile-long Queen Isabella Causeway.

Summers get very hot, and spring attracts large crowds, so I took a winter trip here instead and found the temperatures were pleasantly warm and there were also off-peak prices too.

I explored the scenic Laguna Madre Nature Trail which has a long boardwalk where I spotted birds and then I went for a romantic picnic in the pretty Isla Blanca Park! 

• Visitor Center Address: 600 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 11°C to 20°C

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting one of the most Instagrammable spots, Holiday Sandcastle Village, and gazing at the incredible life-size sand sculptures! 
• Taking a trip to the entertainment district and trying out the ferris wheel, mini-golf courses and fun go-karts.
• Discovering the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Centre which had an amazing boardwalk trail.

16. Moosehead Lake, Maine

I thought this made a unique, under-the-radar winter destination! This deep, cold-water lake in the Longfellow Mountains is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States and in winter, the nearby Squaw Mountain is also open to snowboarders and skiers.

I thought the winter lake scenery was truly magical this time of year and to make the most of the picturesque scenery, I rented a rustic log cabin and cozied up by a log fire – it was a very romantic experience and perfect for couples!

I spent my days cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking the snowshoe trails and when night fell we stargazed and tried to spot the Northern Lights!

• Visitor Center Address: 480 Moosehead Lake Rd, Greenville, ME 04441
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -7°C to -2°C

My highlights…

• Starting the day by eating hearty veggie breakfast cooked on a campfire around the lake, which set us up for a full day of snowy activities! 
• Taking an awesome snowmobile ride along the scenic Moosehead Trail and seeing foraging moose and deer along the way!

17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

I find this place to be so dreamy and unique! Located in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park it’s made up of seven small islands and protected coral reefs. 

I head here when I need some winter sun and as the name suggests, it has a dry winter season which spans from November to March. This is when there is little or no rainfall and it’s not as hot and humid as the summer months.

When here, I enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing on the gorgeous beaches, the water sports like kayaking and boating and trying to spot the stunning rare birds, I saw the brown noddy and brown pelicans! 

My personal favorite islands were Loggerhead Key, which had a scenic lighthouse and super-cute sea turtles, and Garden Key, which was home to gorgeous beaches and the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.

• Visitor Center Address: Florida Keys, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 294-7009
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Snorkeling at the famous Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins where I saw parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas circle the former historic fortification and docks.
• Taking a walk around the lush Bush Key which had long sandy beaches – I loved the driftwood and seeing pelicans and herons.

18. Tucson, Arizona

I’m a big fan of this vibrant city located in the Sonoran Desert. During the summer months the temperatures can be very hot, so I visit during the winter months instead.

It’s been dubbed the ‘City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO, and when I’m here I always sample the tasty cuisine which has been inspired by a huge range of influences from Spanish and Native American to Mexican. I’m also always charmed by the spectacular natural beauty which is made up of a stunning surrounding mountain range, national parks and pine forests.

Om my trip, I visited the scenic Saguaro National Park, the majestic Mount Lemmon, the extraordinary Colossal Cave Mountain Park, the beautiful open-air museums and gardens, and the interesting old town which was filled with striking Spanish Colonial and Mexican buildings.

• Visitor Center Address: Southern Tucson Visitor Center, 115 N. Church Ave. Tucson, AZ 85701
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 18°C 

My personal highlights…

19. Fairbanks, Alaska

This place always wows me in the winter! One of Alaska’s largest cities, it’s an awesome place for watching the incredible Northern Lights as its located directly underneath the most active light region known as the Auroral Oval! 

I timed my visit for this month as the cold weather kept the tourists crowds away and because it was officially off-season I was able to find great deals on flights, hotels, and tours.

I found the snowy scenery to be very photogenic and I was fascinated by how the sunrises and sunsets last around one to one and a half hours this time of year, transforming the sky into a kaleidoscope of oranges, pinks and blues.

I always enjoy sledging, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and taking a warming dip in the nearby Chena Hot Springs (which was my very favorite thing to do)! 

• Visitor Center Address: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -23°C to -16°C

My highlights…

• I loved discovering the creative sculptures at the wonderful Fairbanks Ice Museum – it was also great to see the live demonstrations, where I watched sculptors transform blocks of ice! 
• Relaxing at the beautiful Chena Hot Springs Resort, which is run off geothermal energy – it was awesome to soak in the natural pools which had a steady 106°F (41°C) temperature.

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