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.
There are two types of travelers: Those who flee the cold temperatures and those who embrace them and get giddy at the thought of winter destinations in the US.
If you’re the latter and love winter vacations, chances are you’re currently plotting your next winter vacation to make the most out of the winter season.
Ski adventures, snow-capped mountains, and evenings cozying by the fireplace? Sounds just like heaven to us, too!
If you’re wondering where to head next this winter, here are 7 of the best winter destinations in the USA to embrace your inner Elsa and enjoy the best winter vacations with your family.
Best Winter Destinations in the United States
1. Vail, Colorado
Vail is probably the most quintessential of winter towns. While there’s plenty to do at this cozy mountain town in Colorado year-round, winter is undoubtedly the most special time of the year to visit this alpine gem.
Vail is also known for its horseback riding opportunities during the mild weather months, but winter brings a different charm. Imagine waking up to frigid waters cascading from the mountains, with the snow blanketing the entire landscape
Tucked underneath the alluring Gore Range, Vail offers pretty much everything you could ask for from a mountain resort. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular US winter vacations.
This includes world-class winter sports, an incredible foodie scene, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the country.
It’s perfect if you want to SEE the snow but not necessarily feel the cold (staycation, anyone?).
Where to Stay in Vail
If you’re heading to Vail with kids, here are a few amazing ski resorts worth checking out.
2. Park City, Utah
Known for its world-class ski resorts and unbeatable winter sports (think activities like wild snow tubing, snow biking, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice skating), Park City in Utah offers a (mountain) range of things to do that you’ve got to experience at least once in your life.
If you’re flying in, you can conveniently land at Salt Lake City, which is just a short drive away from Park City.
A walk through this quaint little town will make you feel as though you’re wandering inside a real-life snow globe as you gawk at the century-old buildings and mansions that line the valleys and snowy mountains. It’s one of the best winter vacations with snow.
Tip: January hosts the town’s annual Sundance Film Festival, which is THE place to be if you want the chance to see some of your favorite celebrities (hey, you might even run across them at your hotel!).
Where to Stay in Park City
If you’re heading to Park City with kids, here are a few resorts worth checking out.
3. Telluride, Colorado
Known for its snowy peaks and scenic beauty that will have your jaw dropping to the ground, Telluride is one of Colorado’s most picturesque mountain towns and a must-visit if what you’re after is winter outdoor adventures galore.
While in Telluride, don’t miss out on exploring a few of its hiking trails. Just make sure to check the winter weather conditions before you venture in.
Or get those Instagram vibes on at Hotel Madeline’s ice-skating rinks. Plus, there’s sledding down the snowy moutanis of San Juan. For those who want more thrill, snowcoach tours are available to explore the deeper parts of these mountains in comfort.
If you’re up for some serious mountain adventure, you can try ice climbing (yes, it’s a thing!) or venture deep into the mountains in a cross-country skiing adventure.
If you’d rather not break a sweat and would much prefer a relaxing vacay (or a combo of adventure and luxury), Telluride’s surroundings host plenty of insanely beautiful hot springs where you can relax your muscles after a day of snowy adventures and other winter activities! This is easily one of the best winter vacations one could have.
Where to Stay in Telluride
If you’re heading to Telluride with kids, here are a few resorts worth checking out.
4. Camden, Maine
There’s something incredibly charming about New England in winter, and Camden is the king of winter wonderlands in the area.
Camden enjoys milder winter temperatures compared to many mountain destinations, with average daytime highs often reaching above freezing, allowing for comfortable outdoor exploration in the winter sun.
Located on the charming Penibscto Bay, Camden Harbor feels like it came straight out of a Thomas Kinkade painting. While still offering plenty of winter charm, Camden experiences fewer crowds during the winter months, providing a more peaceful and serene getaway.
While visiting, make sure you book a unique ski adventure at Camden Snow Bowl, where you’ll get your shred on with the views of the ocean backdropping your every move. If you’re a fan of fresh seafood, this quaint town offers some of the best catches during the winter season.
Another must is to search for all the lighthouses in the area, which, when dusted with white snow, look as though they came straight out of a fairytale! It’s one of the best winter vacations you can have with your kids!
Where to Stay in Camden
If you’re heading to Camden with kids, here are a few kid-friendly places worth checking out.
5. Ouray, Colorado
Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Ouray in Colorado is your go-to if you want to feel like you’re walking around Europe rather than the USA.
Popularly dubbed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is the perfect destination to go for serious winter vibes and that fairytale feeling deep in the snowy mountains.
There is an endless array of mountain outdoor adventures and hot springs galore to relax your muscles in, making it one of the best places to visit during winter.
Ouray also knows how to make the most of the winter season with events like the Ouray Ice Festival and San Juan Skijoring. Both of these celebrate winter sporting activities and their importance to this gorgeous little town in the heart of the Colorado mountains.
Where to Stay in Ouray
If you’re heading to Ouray with kids, here are a few kid-friendly places worth checking out.
6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a gem of a place any time of the year. But during the winter months, it becomes a mecca for those searching for a snowy utopia, perfect ofr a cold weather getaway.
Think snowy mountains, forests dusted in snow, frozen lakes, and steaming geysers that make the landscapes look out of this world. It’s one of the most gorgeous winter vacation spots in the US.
Another thing that makes this national park worth the trek? Yellowstone is set right next to Jackstone Hole. This means you can combine your visit to the national park with some serious après-ski scene and luxury stays to relax after a day spent adventuring!
Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park
If you’re heading to Yellowstone with kids, here are a few kid-friendly places worth checking out.
7. Gatlinburg & The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
More popularly known for being the base to explore the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg in Tennessee has a ton more to offer for those who linger a while at this quintessential mountain town.
Aside from its classic alpine vibes and incredible food scene, Gatlinburg burst to life with several winter festivities, such as the Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter festival, where you’ll find twinkling lights every step you take and delicious food to help you beat the winter blues.
Once you’re done exploring Gatlinburg, head into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you’ll find an array of winter sports to choose from and cozy cabins and chalets to experience winter in the middle of nature.
Seriously, it doesn’t get more magical than waking up and having a hot cocoa in the middle of nowhere! Especially if you’re staying in one of the many Gatlinburg cabin rentals!
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
If you’re heading to Gatlinburg with kids, here are a few kid-friendly places worth checking out.
Winter Vacations in the USA Wrap-Up
We hope this list of winter vacation ideas has inspired you to plan your next family vacation. Whether you’re dreaming of snowy mountains and ski slopes or looking to escape the cold for warmer weather and sunny beaches, the USA offers a little something for everyone who wants to go on a winter vacation.
From the charm of German Christmas markets to the thrill of cross-country skiing in the Rockies, there’s no shortage of exciting winter vacation ideas to explore.
Prefer a tropical escape? Head to South Florida or the Virgin Islands for white sand beaches and few crowds. For those seeking a more active holiday, why not try snow tubing in Big Sky, Montana, or enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills? These winter vacation destinations are perfect for you!
No matter where you choose, this winter season is the perfect time to make unforgettable memories with your family with a fun winter vacation.
So grab a cozy blanket, sip some hot cocoa, and start planning your next adventure—you’ll find plenty of breathtaking winter vacation ideas that’ll make this time of year truly magical.