For many, winter is the most anticipated time to travel – especially if you’re seeking peace and quiet from the tourism rush. Adventurers can also experience a different type of adrenaline with the excitement of winter sports. Check out the following places in the U.S. where you can get your fill of holiday vibes.
1. Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Pocono Mountains are the perfect setting for a romantic couple’s retreat. Get cozy next to a roaring fire while staying in one of the area’s rustic wooden cottages or cabins. You can also book a vacation at one of the many resorts dedicated to more rigorous activities like skiing or snow tubing. The Camelback Resort offers some nighttime fun with its light-up Galactic snow tubing option.
2. Yellowstone Park
Since the park is mainly inaccessible by cars during winter, venturous guests can drive a snowmobile into the mountains to enjoy the snowy terrain. Otherwise, snowcoach tours are available to take people safely to visit Old Faithful, capture a glimpse of wildlife, and explore the park. Visitors might get the chance for an encounter with some bison or coyotes along the route.
3. Leavenworth, Washington
Nothing beats the quaint small town feeling like a visit to Leavenworth, about a two-hour drive from Seattle. One step in this village will transport you to a Bavarian paradise surrounded by little shops and restaurants brightly decorated with lights to celebrate the season. To fully enjoy the area, visitors should budget a few days for a thorough gander of the neighboring mountain ranges and Wenatchee River.
4. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth is a small city just south of the Canadian border that sits next to Lake Superior, the largest Great Lake in America. After spending a good day driving along Skyline Parkway, skiing at Spirit Mountain, or hiking the North Shore for picturesque views, don’t forget to unwind downtown at the charming Canal Park and grab a bite of signature smoked fish from Northern Waters Smokehaus.
5. Park City, Utah
Park City is the very definition of cozy and comforting winter vibes. Refresh your body and soul with a cold plunge at The Lodge at Blue Sky or dine in a cute snow globe at Deer Valley’s Stein Eriksen Lodge. For exciting daytime excursions, Utah Olympic Park is one of only two places in the entire U.S. that offers bobsled rides. Take a trip to the nearby Homestead Crater in Midway for a relaxing geothermal soak to unwind and relieve muscle tension after a full day of winter sports.
6. Sequoia National Park
Winter is the perfect time to see giant sequoia trees dusted with clean snow. Even hiking the usual popular trails offers a refreshing view surrounded by trees covered under a blanket of white. Be sure to dress warmly and pack accordingly if nature lovers wish for serene outdoor camping at the Potwisha Campground. Some parts of the park are closed to vehicle traffic, but visitors can still see the sights by utilizing other modes of transportation like skiing and snowshoeing.
7. Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska’s remote location allows tourists the privilege of chasing enigmatic Northern Lights. Borealis Basecamp has adorable igloos that up the game for enjoying this out-of-world natural phenomenon. Another must-see is Chena Hot Springs, where you can bask in its soothingly warm waters and forget Alaska’s otherwise inhospitable freezing temperatures. Aside from the various sports activities that Denali National Park offers, travelers can head to the one and only North Pole to get into the Christmas spirit or be in awe of Castner Glacier’s majestic ice formation. Dog lovers can also say hello and hitch a sled ride with adorable huskies.
8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is well-known as one of the best ski destinations in the U.S., with three different ski areas converging at this gorgeous valley. The snow-capped mountains call out to adventurers who can ride gondolas and trams up thousands of feet to the summit for beautiful aerial views. With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park nearby, you can venture deep into nature to capture a glimpse of wildlife while trekking through the wintery landscape.
9. Vail, Colorado
Driving through this unique passageway gives the most vivid feeling of being enveloped in a winter wonderland that anyone can experience, with a vast backdrop of magnificent mountains looming over cozy shops and brightly lit lodges in every direction. The charming town feels like a portal to Europe with its Swiss-inspired architecture. It’s easy to get lost in the holiday magic while ice skating at Alderhof Ice Rink or partaking Swiss hot dogs at The Blu Cow. Aside from the slew of shopping and dining options, travelers can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling before heading back into town for the royal treatment at one of the many spa centers around the area.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Without the usual summer crowds, nature buffs can savor the quiet countryside and mingle with the winter wildlife at Rocky Mountain National Park. Bring snow cleats, snowshoes, and other winter gear for a more advanced trek to Sky Pond. Visiting the frozen Haiyaha Lake is also a great option, providing a gorgeous setting for avid ice skaters. As for lodging, camping in a secluded yurt is perfect for the rustic traveler looking for a true winter getaway. No matter how you decide to spend your days, escaping into the wilderness is not difficult, while the beauty of an icy backcountry provides the optimal scenery for adventure.
11. Key West, Florida
Key West is perfect for “snowbirds” to avoid the cold this holiday season. Due to the drop in tourism during the winter months, traveling to Florida has become a simple destination to budget for. Instead of fighting through sleet and snow, vacationers can opt for a delectable key lime pie while basking in the sun on a white sand beach. With moderate temperatures around the 70s, wading in the tropical water is still comfortable for year-round fun in the sun.
Snowy Serenity: The 10 Best States for a Winter Break Getaway!
As the holiday season approaches and the chill of winter sets in, the desire for a warm and cozy getaway becomes increasingly strong. The United States offers a diverse array of winter destinations, each with its unique charm and appeal. From snow-covered ski resorts to charming coastal towns, a perfect winter escape awaits everyone.
Snowy Serenity: The 10 Best States for a Winter Break Getaway!
Winter Wonderland – 11 Must-Try Christmas Activities Across Europe
Europe during Christmas is a magical tapestry woven with twinkling lights, festive markets, and a joyful spirit that captures the heart of the holiday season. Each country adds its unique thread to this tapestry, offering many activities that range from traditional to modern, all infused with the enchantment of this special time. Here, we explore 11 must-try Christmas activities across Europe, promising to make your holiday season unforgettable.
Winter Wonderland – 11 Must-Try Christmas Activities Across Europe
