Are you looking for the best places to visit in the United States during winter? Keep scrolling for my list of 7 incredible winter destinations in the US where you’re sure to experience a winter wonderland!
This list of snowy winter destinations in the US was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Looking for the perfect snowy escape this winter? You’re in the right place.
As a family travel blogger who’s spent years exploring winter wonderlands across the country, I can tell you there’s something special about watching your kids’ faces light up when they see fresh powder for the first time. Or building snowmen in mountain towns that look like they’re straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Whether you’re chasing world-class skiing or just want to cozy up by a fireplace with hot chocolate after a day of snow play, these seven destinations deliver the full winter experience.
If you’re also planning warm-weather escapes, don’t miss my complete guide to planning a trip to Hawaii for when you need a break from the cold.
Let’s dive into the best winter destinations in the US where snow is guaranteed and memories are made.
1. Vail, Colorado: The Ultimate Winter Playground
Vail is basically winter vacation goals come to life. This Colorado mountain town sits beneath the Gore Range and offers everything from beginner slopes to black diamond runs that’ll test even experienced skiers.
But here’s what I love most about Vail: you don’t have to be a hardcore skier to enjoy it.
The village itself feels like you’ve stepped into a European alpine town, complete with heated walkways (yes, really) and incredible restaurants where you can treat yourself after a day on the mountain.
The ski school here is fantastic for kids, and there are plenty of winter activities on Viator beyond skiing. Think snowmobiling through backcountry trails, dog sledding adventures, and even snowshoeing tours perfect for families.
Pro tip: Book a photographer through Flytographer to capture your family against those stunning mountain backdrops. You’ll save $20 with my link, and trust me, you’ll want these photos on your wall forever.
What to Pack: Good ski goggles are essential for kids, and don’t forget hand warmers for those extra cold days on the lifts.
Where to Stay in Vail
The Antlers at Vail is perfect for families with its slopeside location and spacious condos with full kitchens. The heated pool is a lifesaver after a long ski day.
Four Seasons Resort Vail offers luxury with a kids’ program that’ll keep your little ones entertained while you hit the slopes or spa.
The Sebastian Vail brings boutique style with pet-friendly rooms and an outdoor heated pool your kids will beg to use even in the snow.
2. Park City, Utah: Where Sundance Meets Family Fun
Only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City’s airport, Park City makes getting to the slopes easier than most mountain destinations. And honestly, that’s a huge win when you’re traveling with kids and all their gear.
This historic mining town has kept its Old West charm while adding modern ski resorts that regularly top “best of” lists. Main Street is lined with century-old buildings now housing boutiques, galleries, and restaurants that’ll surprise you with their quality.
Here’s something cool: if you visit in late January, you might spot celebrities during the Sundance Film Festival. Even if you’re not into the film scene, the energy in town during the festival is pretty fun.
Winter activities here go way beyond skiing. Try ice skating at the Olympic oval or even a moonlight snowshoe tour through pristine forests.
Winter Essential: A good thermal base layer set makes all the difference in keeping kids comfortable on the mountain.
Where to Stay in Park City
Waldorf Astoria Park City sits slopeside at Canyons Village with ski-in/ski-out access. The kids’ club and multiple pools make this a winner for families.
Montage Deer Valley offers spacious residences perfect for families who want more space to spread out, plus an amazing spa for parents.
Park City Peaks Hotel gives you a more budget-friendly option right on Main Street with complimentary breakfast and shuttle service to the slopes.
3. Telluride, Colorado: Mountain Magic at Its Finest
Telluride takes the mountain town vibe and cranks it up to eleven. Surrounded by towering peaks in every direction, this place will have you constantly reaching for your camera.
The free gondola connecting Mountain Village to downtown Telluride isn’t just transportation… it’s an experience. Riding it at sunset with snow-covered peaks all around? That’s the stuff winter vacation dreams are made of.
Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall. In winter, it partially freezes into a spectacular ice sculpture. Pack your winter hiking boots because the trails around Telluride are gorgeous when dusted with snow.
You can book ice climbing lessons if you’re feeling adventurous, or stick with more relaxed options like cross-country skiing tours through peaceful mountain meadows.
And here’s the best part: after all that adventure, Telluride has incredible natural hot springs nearby where you can soak away any muscle soreness. Some resorts even have private hot tubs on your deck overlooking the mountains.
Where to Stay in Telluride
The Peaks Resort and Spa features a massive water slide, multiple hot tubs, and a great kids’ program. The gondola stop is right at the resort.
Madeline Hotel and Residences offers luxury condos with full kitchens and an outdoor ice skating rink that kids absolutely love.
Hotel Telluride brings a more intimate boutique feel in the heart of downtown with easy access to shops and restaurants.
4. Camden, Maine: Coastal Winter Charm
Wait, Maine for a winter vacation? Hear me out.
Camden offers something totally different from the mountain destinations on this list. Picture a classic New England harbor town where lobster boats bob in the marina, historic lighthouses dot the coastline, and yes, there’s still plenty of snow.
The winter temperatures here are milder than you’d expect, making it perfect for families who want snow but don’t want to freeze. Camden Snow Bowl is the only ski area on the East Coast where you can literally ski with ocean views. It’s surreal and beautiful.
But honestly, the magic of Camden in winter is just walking around this storybook town. The lighthouses covered in snow look like they belong on a Christmas card.
Speaking of which, you’ll definitely want to book Flytographer for a family photo session here. The New England coastal backdrop in winter is stunning.
Winter harbor tours let you see the coast from a different perspective, and the local restaurants serve some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. Fresh lobster rolls in winter? Yes, please.
Pack This: A good insulated water bottle keeps drinks warm during outdoor adventures, and wool socks are a game-changer for keeping little feet happy.
Where to Stay in Camden
Whitehall is a historic inn with charm for days, situated right in the heart of town within walking distance of everything.
Camden Harbour Inn offers upscale accommodations with water views and one of the best restaurants in town.
Grand Harbor Inn gives families spacious suites with kitchenettes and easy harbor access for morning strolls.
5. Ouray, Colorado: Switzerland Comes to America
They call Ouray the “Switzerland of America,” and after visiting, I completely get why. This tiny mountain town sits in a box canyon surrounded by towering peaks that’ll make your jaw drop.
The main attraction here? The Ouray Ice Park, which is basically an adult playground for ice climbers. But even if you’re not ready to scale frozen waterfalls (totally fair), watching the pros do it is incredible entertainment.
Every January, the Ouray Ice Festival brings climbers from around the world for competitions, clinics, and celebrations. And in February, the San Juan Skijoring event is wild… imagine horses pulling skiers through obstacle courses at high speeds. It’s rodeo meets winter sports, and it’s so much fun to watch.
You can book ice climbing clinics designed for beginners, take snowshoeing tours to frozen waterfalls, or just soak in the town’s natural hot springs. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool is open year-round, and there’s nothing quite like swimming in 104-degree water while snow falls around you.
Where to Stay in Ouray
Beaumont Hotel combines Victorian elegance with modern amenities right in the heart of downtown.
Ouray Chalet Inn offers comfortable rooms at great prices with the hot springs pool just a short walk away.
Box Canyon Lodge features its own private hot springs pools on-site, which is perfect after a day exploring in the cold.
6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: Winter’s Secret Season
Most people think of Yellowstone as a summer destination, but winter might actually be the best time to visit.
The crowds disappear, the landscape transforms into something otherworldly, and you’ll see wildlife like never before.
Picture this: bison covered in snow, geysers creating massive steam clouds in the frigid air, and frozen waterfalls everywhere you look. It’s like another planet.
You can only access most of the park by snowmobile or snow coach in winter, which honestly makes the whole experience feel more adventurous. Book a guided snowmobile tour or wildlife watching expedition to maximize your chances of seeing wolves, elk, and those famous bison.
Plus, Yellowstone sits right next to Jackson Hole, so you can combine national park exploration with world-class skiing and a fantastic dining scene. It’s the best of both worlds.
Gear Tip: Neck gaiters and insulated gloves are absolute must-haves for Yellowstone’s intense cold.
Where to Stay Near Yellowstone
Old Faithful Snow Lodge is one of only two lodges open in winter, offering the rare chance to stay inside the park with easy access to geyser basins.
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel sits in the northern part of the park and provides rustic comfort near the park’s famous terraces.
For more options, check out Jackson hotels on Expedia where you’ll find everything from luxury resorts to cozy lodges just outside the park gates.
7. Gatlinburg & Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: Southern Mountain Charm
Gatlinburg brings a different flavor to winter vacations. You get the mountain snow and cozy vibes, but with a distinctly Southern hospitality twist and way more affordable prices than most mountain destinations.
The town goes all-out for winter celebrations. Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas runs from November through early January, transforming the mountaintop park into a twinkling wonderland with over a million lights. The hot cocoa crawl alone is worth the visit.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to enter (unlike most national parks), and winter hiking here is spectacular when you’re not fighting summer crowds. The trails covered in snow offer a peaceful escape, and the mountain views go on forever.
Gatlinburg winter activities include everything from moonshine tastings at local distilleries to scenic helicopter tours over snow-covered peaks. And the cabin rentals here? They’re next-level cozy with hot tubs, fireplaces, and mountain views from your deck.
Don’t Forget: Portable phone chargers are essential for photo-heavy days, and a good packable down jacket works for layering when temperatures fluctuate.
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg offers a fun, laid-back atmosphere with water features, entertainment, and a great location in downtown Gatlinburg.
The Lodge at Buckberry Creek provides a secluded mountain retreat with luxury cabins and a peaceful setting away from the tourist bustle.
Park Vista DoubleTree by Hilton sits high above town with incredible panoramic views and both indoor and outdoor pools.
Planning Your Winter Adventure
Each of these destinations offers its own brand of winter magic. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping ski runs in Vail, coastal charm in Camden, or the otherworldly landscapes of Yellowstone, you really can’t go wrong.
As a family travel expert, my biggest advice? Don’t overthink the gear. Rent equipment at your destination for your first trip, invest in good base layers and warm socks, and focus on making memories instead of having the perfect setup.
And if winter’s not your thing, I’ve got you covered with guides for every season. Check out my free email course on planning a trip to Disney World for your next warm-weather family adventure.
The beauty of winter vacations is how they bring families together. You’re not all scattered on different devices… you’re building snowmen, warming up together by the fire, and sharing hot chocolate after a day of adventure. That’s what it’s all about.
So grab those snow bibs for the kids, book your hotel, and get ready to create some seriously special winter memories that’ll have your family talking about this trip for years to come.
Looking for more winter travel content? Check out the best winter getaways from Seattle, how to pack for winter travel, winter holiday travel tips, and magical Christmas getways in the US!
