20 Amazing Places To Visit In February In The USA

Winter is actually one of my favorite times to travel – there’s fewer crowds, better prices, and beautiful seasonal scenery. Whether you’re chasing snow or sunshine, here are some standout destinations I’ve personally loved visiting for this time of year…

1. Big Sky, Montana

This small mountain town completely wowed me when I visited during this month! January and February bring peak snowfall so there was deep powder snow and breathtaking snow-covered views of the Madison Range. 

The busiest season has also passed so it felt like I had the place almost to myself, there were shorter lift lines, and more space to explore the pristine wilderness. I was also pleased to find some discounts on accommodations and activities too and great events this month too including the family-friendly Winterfest, the lively Big Sky Best of the West Showdown, the inspiring Backcountry Film Festival and the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival. 

I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drove an hour south and spent a dreamy five day vacation here. I hit the legendary slopes at Big Sky Resort, went snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Gallatin Canyon, and enjoyed après-ski in the lively Big Sky Town Center.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT, Phone: 406-995-3000
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 10°C to 0°C

My highlights…

• Enjoy a cozy upscale dining experience at the beautifully decorated log-cabin style Horn and Cantle – the cedar plank mushrooms were especially divine! 
• Checking at the après ski scene here, my favorites were the lively Scissorbills Saloon and the upscale Alpenglow bar at the chic Summit Hotel.

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Visitors’ Center Address: 339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 20°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the romantic boutique Hotel Monteleone which was perfect for a weekend couple’s break! I was totally charmed by the unique rotating bar, the heated rooftop pool and the opulent decor! 

3. Mendocino, Northern California

This charming coastal village was a joy to stop at during this month! When here I discovered that the weather was cool but not uncomfortably cold, there were far fewer crowds and much more of a local and intimate vibe this time of year too, which I was really taken with! 

I loved that it was also whale-watching season along the rugged Pacific coastline, and I thought the romantic foggy cliffs and cozy inns made it perfect option for a Valentine’s getaway, and the town hosted the annual Mendocino County Wine & Beer Festival celebrating regional flavors too!

I stopped here on a three hour drive from San Francisco and during the four days I spent here I enjoyed whale watching from Mendocino Headlands State Park. I also strolled through the romantic cliffside paths of the historic village, and took a misty redwood forest hike in nearby Russian Gulch State Park and explored Main Street checking out the several cute shops and art galleries which had been collecting art since the 1960s!

• Visitors’ Center Address: Ford House Visitor Center & Museum 45035 Main Street, Mendocino, CA 95460
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 13°C to 16°C

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a ride on one of the country’s best historic rail tours, The Skunk Train (which starts in Mendocino) – I especially loved going through the very long Tunnel #2, which I found out from the staff was hand-carved in the 1890s! 
• Exploring the beautiful sandy Big River Beach and Van Damme State Beach and finding interesting tide pools and sea caves.

4. San Antonio, Texas

Texan summers are scorching with high humidity, so I decided to visit this vibrant historic city during February instead and found it was warm but with comfortable temperatures and there was a lot less humidity.

To my delight, there were fewer crowds, discounts on accommodation and a calendar of awesome events. My personal favorites were the lively Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival & River Parade where the River Walk had transformed into a floating festival and the fun annual Cupid 5K Chase.

I flew into San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and it made the perfect long weekend. I explored the Alamo and the Spanish Missions without the crowds, enjoyed a peaceful walk along the River Walk, sampled Tex-Mex at the Historic Market Square, and discovered the buzzy River Walk which was filled with quirky cafes, excellent restaurants, and interesting shops.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the beautiful Mokara Hotel & Spa – I especially loved the award-winning onsite spa, the heated rooftop swimming pool and hot tub and the gorgeous river views!
• Dining at trendy Mexican restaurant the Iron Cactus on the Riverwalk – the spicy Chile Con Queso was divine!

5. Death Valley, California

This month is a much safer and more pleasant time to explore this vast desert landscape. On my visit during February I found that the temperatures were pleasantly mild, so it was the perfect time to explore and hike the surreal landscapes without the intense summer heat.

I thought it was also great that there were much fewer crowds than the spring season, the soft winter light was ideal for photography, I could see early wildflowers starting to bloom and there was the awesome Dark Sky Festival taking place which featured stargazing, NASA-led science talks, and interesting astrophotography workshops. 

I drove four hours from Los Angeles and explored for a very unique three days. I hiked the golden canyons of Golden Canyon and Mosaic Canyon, walked across the surreal salt flats of Badwater Basin, took in panoramic views from the jaw-dropping Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View, and enjoyed the Dark Sky Festival – all in comfortably cool February weather!

• Visitors’ Center Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Taking advantage of the clear skies and lack of light pollution and going star gazing – it was an awesome moment to see the Milky Way. 

6. Palm Springs, California

To me, this funky desert city was the perfect escape from the winter during February and I soaked up enough sun and Vitamin D to beat the winter blues! The weather was warm and sunny while much of the country was still very cold, and it was just right for lounging by the pool, outdoor adventures and just simply soaking up the retro-chic resort vibes!

I also discovered that there were fewer crowds than the busier months of March and April and there awesome events such as Modernism Week which was very vibrant celebration of the popular architecture style the city adores and farmer’s markets.

• Visitors’ Center Address:  2901 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the ARRIVE Hotel – I loved the boutique vibe, the funky decor, the cool fire pits and the huge hot tub and large outdoor swimming pool.
• Taking a trip to the Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Markets  – the Branch and Vine olive oil company and the Canyon Creek Mushrooms were my favorite stalls!

7. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

• Visitors’ Center Address: Vail Welcome Center 241 South Frontage Rd., Suite 8150 Vail, CO 81657
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 4°C to 2°C

My highlights…

• Checking out the après scene – it was great to try delicious craft cocktails at The Remedy Bar and watch live music at the Shakedown Bar.
• Dining at the chic Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa Vail – the Cucumber Sunomono was especially divine!

8. The Keys, Florida

I was looking to escape the cold winter weather last year so I took a sunny winter vacation on these 125-mile-long chain of tropical islands. It was a great choice as I got to experience warm and sunny weather with little rainfall, so it was ideal for snorkeling, kayaking through mangroves, enjoying waterfront dining and sunsets, and soaking up the tropical vibes without the summer crowds!

It turned out to be a slightly quieter month (the peak months are December and January) with less crowds and I was lucky to research some awesome off-peak deals on accommodation and attend the Key West Art & Craft Festival and there were also lots of live music events taking place this month too.

I drove four hours from Miami and spent a paradise-like week-long vacation there. I snorkeled the coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, kayaked through the mangroves of Big Pine Key, caught sunset celebrations at Mallory Square in Key West and visited the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum – I especially loved seeing the cute descendants of Hemingway’s original six-toed cat wandering around the property!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106240 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 24°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

9. Leavenworth, Washington

I spent a long winter weekend in this charming Bavarian-style village and it was a dream! I was treated to snow-covered Bavarian buildings and surrounding alpine scenery which created a magical winter wonderland perfect for romantic getaways, snowy outdoor adventures, and cozying up by the fire after a day at the nearby ski hill or a stroll through the quaint, festive village! It was a great choice for a unique Valentine’s Day getaway! 

Along with fewer crowds and a few off-peak accommodation deals, it also felt like there was always something fun on. There was the magical Village of Lights: Christmastown, which illuminated the town with over half a million lights (from Thanksgiving through to this month), the fun cross-country ski event Skirennen Nordic Race, live music performances at venues and lots of romantic Valentine’s Day celebrations.

I drove 2.5-hours from Seattle and explored the quaint village filled with lights alpine architecture, upscale spas, gourmet dining, and cozy bars, went sledding at Front Street Park, snowshoed and skied the scenic Icicle River Trails, sipped on mulled wine at Rhein Haus, and soaked in the romantic, alpine atmosphere!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 0°C to 5°C

My personal highlights…

• Dining on a tasty wild mushroom risotto at the upscale Watershed Café. 

10. Hot Springs, North Carolina

Visitors can enjoy the outdoor hot tubs year-round at this but I personally loved the magical experience of soaking in the thermal springs during the chilly winter air – it felt extra rejuvenating! It was also nice discover quiet trails along the Appalachian Mountains and scenic French Broad River for peaceful winter hikes and cozy mountain charm without the crowds! 

I searched around and stumbled across some great accommodation discounts and there were lots of ongoing Valentine’s and Winter Romance celebrations throughout the month too. 

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and drove and based myself here for a very relaxing three day break. I soaked in the steaming mineral tubs at Hot Springs Resort & Spa, explored the snowy Appalachian Trail past Lover’s Leap, enjoyed atmospheric riverside views along the French Broad River, and cozied up with live music and comfort food at Iron Horse Station.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 8°C to 12°C 

My highlights…

11. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Temperatures in the park during the summer months at this state park filled with red Aztec sandstone formations can get extremely hot (dangerously so!) so I choose to explore during this month instead. 

The cooler but still mild temperatures made hiking through its fiery red rock landscapes much more comfortable and much safer, and the low winter sun cast dramatic shadows that highlighted the park’s stunning desert scenery without the usual desert heat or crowds.

I was also pleasantly surprised by the events taking place this month, which included the Valley of Fire Regional Photography Event and the February Hike of the Month, featuring new moon guided hikes along the Seven Wonders Loop on some Wednesdays.

I drove an hour northeast of Las Vegas and spent two days exploring. I discovered the colorful sandstone of Rainbow Vista, wandered through Pink Canyon and the White Domes slot canyons, admired the iconic Fire Wave, photographed Elephant Rock in the soft winter light, and explored striking formations like the Seven Sisters, Fire Cave, and the Beehives.

• Visitors’ Center Address: Valley of Fire Visitor Center, Overton, NV 89040
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 15°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Trying to spot wildlife which was more active in the cooler temperatures – I managed to see desert bighorn sheep and desert spiny lizards scurrying around the desert floor!

12. Alta, Utah

I have quite the fondness for this fantastic ski mountain resort located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah in Salt Lake County. It’s filled with a wide array of slopes, deep powder and exciting terrain. 

I always take a visit during this month as the skiing conditions are just right – there’s consistent fresh powder, a deep snowpack and I find that there is much less ice on the slopes too.

As well as the bright blue skies contrasting with the brilliant white snow making everything incredibly scenic, I found that there’s fewer crowds than the peak months of December and January and more reasonable prices too.

I checked out the winter outdoor activities on offer including the lively Après-Ski scene, the ski races and the competitions (which regularly take place during this month).

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10351 UT-210, Alta, UT 84092
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 3°C to 2°C 

My highlights…

• Hiring a fat bike and taking the nearby scenic route to Big Cottonwood Canyon’s Mill D North Fork Trail.
• Warming up with a gingerbread hot chocolate and Salted Caramel Pretzel Sticks at Hatch Family Chocolates. 

13. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

I’m always in awe of this world-famous national park! Yellowstone is filled with exceptional natural beauty, geothermal features and diverse wildlife.

Although summer is the most popular time to visit, I took a trip during this month as it’s unique and magical time with far fewer crowds and incredible light for photography.

I also love the Intagram-worthy photo taking opportunities of the dreamy snow-covered landscapes, atmospheric steamy geysers and interesting wildlife which emerge from their hiding spots to forage for food – I manage to spot bison, and elk. 

Although the roads and hiking trails were snow-covered and inaccessible for regular use, I found many trails remained open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and I personally explored the park’s stunning winter landscapes via guided snowmobile tours and snow coaches. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: Grand Loop Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 0 to -15 degrees

My highlights…

• Going on an exciting snowmobile guided tour with Brushbuck Tours. 
• Photographing the picturesque scenery on a snow coach tour – I loved watching the bison move through the snow and breathe puffs of frosty steam!  

14. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

I thought this was a unique and wonderful beauty spot! Located in northeastern Arizona, it’s a protected park which spans over 220,000 acres and I was in awe of it ancient fossilized trees, brightly coloured Badlands, plant and animal fossils, and stunning desert vistas. 

The summer heat here can reach dangerously high levels, so I explored during this month instead. I also encountered fewer crowds, and unlike many other national parks, all the roads and trails remained open. The conditions were also perfect for long hikes – I just made sure I bought warm clothes for the cooler temperatures.

When here, I explored the ancient Puerco Pueblo site which were the remains of a 600 year old village filled with interesting petroglyphs, the extraordinary Painted Desert (a huge area of colorful badlands), the petroglyph-covered Newspaper Rock, and Rainbow Forest which I found was a surreal but very photogenic spot filled with petrified wood.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 16°C

My favorite highlights…

• Checking out Rainbow Forest Museum at the visitor center where I saw fossils from the Late Triassic period! 
• Strolling along the short Crystal Forest loop and admiring the beautiful wood log deposits.
• Discovering the Blue Mesa Trail where I saw the incredible colorful badlands and pieces of petrified wood.
• Driving on the famous Historic Route 66 which travels through the park!

15. Kirkwood, California

I love that this scenic mountain town located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California (35 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe) was a quieter and more low-key skiing destination! I also found it was very family-friendly and catered to all levels and abilities. 

I was captivated by the scenic snowy paradise which had deep powder and plenty of fresh snowfall perfect for exploring the steep terrain and challenging runs. 

I found Kirkwood to be a more affordable ski resort generally (compared to other more famous resorts in the state) and I shopped around before hand and found some great deals on packages.

I timed my visit around their exciting ski races and terrain park competitions and when here, I also enjoy discovering the excellent restaurants, spas and vibrant Après-Ski scene – The Cornice Grille and the cozy The Wall Bar were my favorites!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Drive Kirkwood, CA 95646
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 4°C to 4°C

My personal highlights…

• Watching the snowboarders do incredible tricks at the quarter pipe – I watched an amazing variety of flips, spins, and grabs! 
• Going cross-country skiing on the Caples Crest Trail where I saw gorgeous snowy vistas and stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
• Going snowshoeing on Winnemucca Lake Trail which took me through open meadows and dense groves of pine and fir trees.

16. San Diego, California

I can’t get enough of this sunny big city located in the south of California (near the Mexican border)! I’m always charmed by its Mexican and Hispanic influences, the gorgeous beaches and its laid back vibe. 

It has year-round sunshine and a mild climate, so when I want to escape from cold, gloomy weather and get a dose of much vitamin D, I head here! I found it to be much quieter and possess a much more local vibe and with awesome discounts on accommodation too.

While it wasn’t quite warm enough to swim in the ocean comfortably this time of year, I just relaxed on its sandy beaches, explored the green and very family (and dog-friendly!) parks, went shopping in its eclectic neighborhoods and discovered many of the cool restaurants and bars.

I also squeezed in a visit the charming Gaslamp Quarter, the lively Old Town, the serene Japanese Friendship Garden, and the many art galleries, museums, and beautiful gardens dotted throughout the city.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 18°C

My highlights…

• Experiencing a breathtaking sunset boat tour with Sail San Diego.
• Relaxing with a zen-like Korean Massage at the Aqua Day Spa.
• Hiking along the trails at Torrey Pines State Park, I loved the incredible panoramic views!

17. Magic Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont

Here I discovered a relaxed, intimate ski experience! Located in picturesque Londonderry, Vermont, I found out this snowy spot was perfect for families and it had a classic, laid-back approach to skiing.

Nestled on Glebe Mountain, I loved its steep, narrow trails, glade skiing, affordable prices and incredible 1,500-foot vertical drop which also made it a great option for advanced skiers. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 495 Magic Mountain Access Londonderry, VT 05148
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 6°C to minus 1°C

My highlights…

• Experiencing the Cozy Après-Ski scene – I loved the awesome live music at the Black Line Tavern and the upscale dining at the Red Slate Restaurant and Bar.
• Trying Uphill Skiing (Skins) for the first time which started by attaching skins to the bottom of your skis, which prevented backsliding! 

18. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

I personally think this stunning destination doesn’t receive enough attention! Located in southwest Georgia, it’s known as the state’s Little Grand Canyon.

I discovered this gem was filled with unique protected natural scenery spanning just over 1,000 acres, and I love its extraordinary geological formations, colorful ravines and colorful canyons (there are 16 in total)! 

I took a trip here during this month and the weather more comfortable compared to the summer months (when temperatures can soar to 35°C). The cooler conditions made hiking the trails much more pleasant, and with fewer crowds, there was also better opportunities for photography too.

When here, I explored Canyon Loop Trail which had the best viewpoints in the park and the Backcountry Trail which took me deep into the rugged terrain.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 8930 Canyon Rd. Lumpkin GA 31815
• Map Location
• Average temperature -13°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying over at the very rustic primitive backcountry campsite located along the Providence Canyon backcountry trail. The owner’s were super friendly!
• Seeing the old abandoned car wrecks left from the previous landowners in 1950s which I thought made great quirky features!

19. St Augustine, Florida

I think this is a fine and elegant gem! The easy-on-the-eye historic city was founded in Florida’s northeastern coast in 1565 and is filled with Spanish heritage, historic landmarks, gorgeous beaches and a romantic, laid-back vibe.

I found the weather to be mild and very pleasant this time of year, with 8 hours of sunshine per day and much less humidity than the summer months. It’s also off-season which means I found better rates on accommodation and far fewer crowds and tourists to contend with too – bonus!

Although the ocean wasn’t quite warm enough to swim comfortably, I relaxed on the beach and attended the events including the lively Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series, the fun and family-friendly Old City Pirate Fest and the elegant St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival.

On my trip, I also explored the impressive Spanish masonry fort, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the interesting St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, the charming San Sebastian Winery and the unique and spooky ghost tour!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 21°C

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a wander down St George Street which was filled with a collection of art galleries, independent shops, and fine restaurants.
• Learning about the history at Oldest House Museum and discovering what life was like in St Augustine years ago.
• Drinking the water from Ponce de Leon’s Spring of Eternal Hope at The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park! 

20. Table Rock State Park, South Carolina

I choose this place when I want to explore a quieter, lesser-known national park! Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, in northwestern South Carolina I was enchanted by the stunning natural scenery, excellent hiking trails, huge granite cliffs, two picturesque lakes, waterfalls and its huge mountain (which is the tallest in the state)! 

The temperatures and humidity can be very high in the summer but I found this month was a great time to visit, especially when I plan to go on longer hikes. There were fewer crowds, fewer mosquitoes (and ticks!) and I really enjoyed how the whole park had a cozy vibe during the winter months.

On my recent trip, I stayed in historic log cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, complete with roaring fires. I discovered scenic drives and explored miles of picturesque hiking trails – my favorites were the scenic Table Rock Trail and the tranquil Pinnacle Mountain Trail.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 158 E. Ellison Lane Pickens, SC 29671
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the Pinnacle Mountain Trail which took me through lush forests, across scenic stream crossings, and past stunning viewpoints, eventually leading to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain.
• Experiencing a romantic Valentine’s break in a cozy log cabin – it was amazing to be surrounded by the serene and pristine beauty of the park when waking up each morning!

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