There are fourteen excellent winter getaways in the United States.

Even though the United States' winter break is relatively brief, we should still try to make the most of it. We consulted travel writers to compile this list of top U.S. locations for a winter getaway. Explore the locations below to plan your next trip, whether you're hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for some quiet time in nature, a snowy adventure with the kids, or a warm winter vacation in the United States.

From the Real Girl Review, Geeves

People's mental pictures of Maine typically include sandy beaches and warm weather. Despite its reputation as a fantastic summer vacation spot thanks to its stunning coastline, historic lighthouses, and delicious lobster, Maine is also a wonderful place to visit in the winter.

Winter in Maine is ideal because there is fun to be had by all, whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or even your significant other.

If you don't mind the chill, head to Western Maine's Lakes & Mountains region for breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, snow-capped mountains, placid lakes, and tall, verdant trees that look fresh and vibrant after a winter blanket of snow.

Main, Maine, is known for its beautiful mountains and lakes.

In the state of Maine, also known as "Vacationland," you can partake in a wide variety of exciting winter pursuits, from snowboarding and snowmobiling to ice fishing and ice skating and even dog sledding.

After a day of exploring, warm up inside at one of the many breweries along Maine's beer trail or a local restaurant, where you can count on a roaring fire and a steaming mug of cocoa. After you've had your fill of Maine's winter wonderland, retreat to your log cabin for the night. You could see a moose or a bear if you're lucky.

This article was written by Sierra Schmidt of the blog Free To Travel Mama.

A stunning alpine lake, Lake Tahoe is located between California and Nevada in the basin of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Clear blue water and picturesque mountain towns make this alpine lake the largest and arguably the most beautiful in the country. When the snow begins to fall, the mountain towns become a bustling destination for solo travelers, couples, and families.

Two dozen ski resorts dot the lakeside landscape, making skiing and snowboarding the most popular winter sports in Tahoe. Heavenly and Northstar are two of the most well-known places to take ski lessons, as they both offer extensive terrain for skiers of all abilities, as well as warm lodges perfect for sipping cocoa after The same goes for sledding, which is great fun whether you're at a ski resort or a more remote location like Spooner Lake.

There are few places in the United States better suited for a winter getaway than Lake Tahoe.

There are dozens of trails in the area surrounding the lake, so pack your crampons or snowshoes and head to Eagle Rock or Alpine Meadows.

Heavenly Village's gondola ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains when the snow starts to fall. A number of South Lake Tahoe's restaurants and bars feature outdoor fireplaces where visitors can warm up.

Winter in Lake Tahoe, whether you spend your time exploring the outdoors or hunkering down by a fire to watch the snow fall, is an experience you won't soon forget.

Author, "It's Not About the Miles" Dhara

Palm Springs, located in Southern California, is a great place to spend the winter. With mild winter days, Palm Springs welcomes visitors of all ages and interests.

Palm Springs is a great place to go hiking or exploring the outdoors in the winter because it serves as a gateway to the California desert. Visit the world-famous Joshua Tree National Park or go hiking in nearby palm oases for the day.

Southern California; specifically, Palm Springs

The resorts in Palm Springs are famous for their pools, and with temperatures in the 70s, visitors can spend the afternoons swimming, playing in the sun, or doing both. Many resort pools have water slides and other water park amenities that children will love.

You can never go wrong with a stroll through Palm Springs' downtown. Lights wind their way up the trunks of palm trees, and there are plenty of great places to eat and shop.

You can have a wonderful winter vacation in the desert of Palm Springs no matter what you end up doing there.

Prepared by Lotte from the Gezond Weekmenu

It is widely regarded as one of the finest U.S. S that of Mount Rainier During the winter, visitors to this stunning Washington State National Park will be in for a treat, as the park receives an abundance of snow that makes for a wide variety of exciting snow-based pursuits.  

You can go snowshoeing on your own in Mount Rainier National Park or join a ranger-led tour (in which case snowshoes will be provided) through the park.    

Mount Rainier is blanketed in snow in the National Park

You could also take your snowmobile out on Westside Road, or take the kids to the snow play area in Paradise. Spend the afternoon with the family having a snowball fight or going sledding; either activity is sure to be a blast.   

The park is only accessible from the Nisqually and Carbon River entrances from November 1st through March 31st.   

No restaurants are open in the winter, so be sure to pack plenty of food and (hot) beverages. But if you plan ahead, a visit to Mount Rainier National Park in the winter can be spectacular.  

• Lodging close to Mount Rainier in Washington

Written by Paula of Paula Pins the World

One of the best ways to enjoy the coldest season in the United States is with a trip to Vermont. Vermont is a small state in New England well-known for its stunning natural beauty, beautiful trails for hiking, and, of course, maple syrup.  

However, if you travel there in the winter, you will find that it is a fantastic place to ski, snowshoe, and ride snowmobiles. To appreciate the winter landscape and, of course, the snow, you can also go on a few winter hikes. The Robert Frost Wayside Trail and the Spruce Peak Trail are two of the best routes in the area, but you should always pack for the possibility of bad weather.  

Vermont winters are known for their snow.

In order to see as much of the state as possible, a road trip is the best option. A Vermont winter vacation isn't complete without trips to the Mad River Valley, Burlington, Montpellier, Stowe, and Woodstock. You can take a tour of Ben & Jerry's, eat some of America's famous grilled cheese sandwiches, and shop at a variety of local markets, making these destinations ideal for any gourmet. Consider visiting a few of the area's breweries or maple syrup operations as well.  

Also, if you go in January, you can experience the Stowe Winter Carnival, see Burlington decked out in holiday lights, and warm up with a spa day.

There's something for everyone in Vermont this time of year, whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with the whole family.

• Lodging Options in the Green Mountain State

Authored by James Ian Parks of the Collecting Parks

Visiting Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming during the winter is unlike visiting at any other time of the year. Most of the park is closed to regular vehicle traffic and open only for over-snow travel from the middle of December to the beginning of March.

Experience the beauty of Old Faithful or the Canyon region on a snowmobile tour. What makes the Upper Geyser Basin's geysers and colorful hot springs even cooler is the sight of them against a snowy backdrop. And you won't soon forget the unforgettable sight of Yellowstone Falls, which is almost entirely covered in ice. Those seeking adventure, whether as a pair or on their own, should consider renting a snowmobile.

To be specific, Yellowstone National Park

Taking a snowcoach tour is the most relaxing option. These travel to the same locations as the previous ones. Spending the night at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge extends your time in the park. Senior citizens and their families will find this to be an excellent option.  

The national park has one road that is open to regular traffic. From the North Gate, you can drive directly to Mammoth Hot Springs via Lamar Valley, where you might spot bison buried in the snow.

• Lodging close to Yellowstone Park

Exploring With Erin's Erin Holmes

Jackson Hole, also in Wyoming, is a valley sandwiched between the Gros Ventre and Teton mountains. In 180 7, John Colter peered down from the surrounding mountains and saw a massive hole. Several ski areas, the Elk Refuge, the city of Jackson, and a chunk of Grand Teton National Park all call the valley that bears its name home.

It's the perfect winter getaway for people who love to ski and people like me who have never skied in their lives.

Jackson Hole is a fantastic winter destination for families in the United States.

Skiing is, without a doubt, Jackson Hole's biggest draw. Approximately 500,000 people visit the village annually. They put in a lot of time on the slopes.

For a family-friendly safari experience, book with Wild Things of Wyoming. Along the way, we saw elk, bison, coyotes, badgers, moose, and bighorn sheep. The kids learned a lot on the trip, and they got to handle real horns and antlers.

Touring the National Museum of Wildlife Art is like seeing wildlife in a different light, as it houses the country's largest collection of animal artworks such as paintings, photographs, and sculptures. There's a special Children's Discovery Gallery there for them to explore.

• Lodgings in the vicinity of Jackson Hole

Thanks, Kate, from Kate Overseas

Due to the consistent snowfall in the state's mountains, which makes for a variety of fun snow activities and makes the state's quaint mountain towns look especially appealing in the winter, Colorado ranks among the best winter vacation spots in the United States. Winter in Boulder and Durango and other parts of Colorado is fantastic.

Colorado, among the United States' premier ski resorts.

For a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more, this is a fantastic destination for active families and groups. Hundreds of trails ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert can be found at the many area ski resorts like Purgatory Mountain, Hesperus Ski Area, and Chapman Hill.  

Because of the state of Colorado's rich mining heritage, visitors can enjoy a trip back in time on one of the state's scenic railways, such as the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Inside the comfort of the train, you can take in the sights of Cascade Canyon and the San Juan Forest.

• Colorado lodging recommendations

Written by Lisa of Far-Reaching Preparations

In the winter, Salt Lake City, Utah, is among the top destinations in the United States. The city of Salt Lake City is surrounded by mountains, and yes, it does have the best snow on earth (according to a study at the University of Utah), so a ski vacation to Salt Lake City is highly recommended.  

If you want to take advantage of the many winter activities in and around Salt Lake City, the months of January and February are ideal. Fun winter activities in Utah range from skiing and snowboarding to snow tubing and ice skating to exploring a real, live ice castle.

In Utah's Salt Lake City, there is a magnificent ice castle.

Approximately eight ski areas can be reached in less than an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport. Getting to the resorts is a breeze thanks to the convenient transportation options. The proximity of Salt Lake City makes a ski trip a breeze.  

Park City is among the most famous and upscale ski destinations. Park City is a wonderful place to spend a winter getaway because of the fantastic lodging options available. Locals, however, will tell you that Alta Ski Area has the finest snow and finest terrain in the country.    

• Discounts on Salt Lake City hotels

Authored by Ian James of Travel Memorabilia

The Big Apple is a fantastic winter getaway. Many popular Christmas films and TV shows are actually set there.   

To begin, New York is one of the best cities in the United States to visit during the holiday season. The Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, the festive window displays, and the enormous real Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center are all must-sees for any visiting family.

New York City's Rockefeller Center rink is a popular ice skating destination.

Bryant Park, where you can skate for free if you bring your own skates; the rink at the foot of the Rockefeller tree; the rink in Central Park, which overlooks the park and midtown Manhattan; and many more.

Snow makes Central Park even more beautiful, and a day spent exploring the park and taking in all it has to offer is easily doable. There is also a great deal of shopping to be done, both at seasonal markets and in Soho's flagship stores.  

A visit to the "City That Never Sleeps" in the winter is a must for you.  

Written by Dive Into Germany's Sharon Gourlay

Do you wish you could get away from the cold winter weather and enjoy some time in the sun instead? Take New Orleans, for example Things to do abound in Louisiana's largest city, and the climate is milder than in most of the United States, with temperatures in the mid-40s to mid-60s and plenty of sunny days.

Most memorable is a stroll through the French Quarter's picturesque streets and magnificent buildings. In addition to the French Quarter, you should visit St. Louis Cemetery and the neighboring neighborhood of Treme.

It all goes down on Bourbon Street in Nola.

The Louisiana State Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the state, including the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, and there are many other things to see and do in the area.

Of course, if you're able to travel to New Orleans in February, you'll be able to experience the city at its most vibrant during Mardi Gras. The two weeks leading up to and including Shrove Tuesday are jam-packed with parades, balls, and other festivities in honor of this holiday. A trip now would be fantastic.

The Louisiana Children's Museum and other family-friendly activities are great for kids, while singles, friends, and couples can all have a blast on the town at night on the famous Bourbon Street.

• New Orleans lodging options

From the US Gulf Coast, with travel writer Charles McCool

Anna Maria Island, located on the US Gulf Coast, is a fantastic warm winter vacation destination thanks to its clean and soft sugar sand beaches, impeccable winter weather, magnificent sunsets, and fresh seafood. Anna Maria Island, situated between St. Petersburg and Sarasota, offers superior beaches to its urban neighbors Clearwater Beach and Siesta Key.

Anna Maria Beach is one of the United States' warmest winter vacation spots.

There's no denying that Anna Maria Island's mild winter climate is a major draw for visitors from up north. Activities such as walking on the beach, fishing, water sports, tennis, pickleball, and golf are all popular when the temperature is in the 70s (roughly 20 C). And relax in the sunshine while eating delicious seafood from the Gulf

Many tourists spend each day on Anna Maria Island waiting for the sun to set, because the sunsets are so beautiful. There are seven miles of pristine beaches that face due west, and dozens of easy beach access points (almost all with parking spots and benches) to feed your sunset-watching habit. For a fun winter getaway, bring your friends, family, or coworkers here.

• Rooms on Anna Maria Island

Contributed by Marcie Cheung of Hawaii Vacation with Children

Maui in the winter is an excellent choice for a Hawaiian vacation. Simply put, you can watch the humpback whales make their annual migration. From November to March, whales congregate in large numbers off the coast of Maui, making sightings virtually guaranteed. You can find countless mind-blowing whale-watching tours and activities in Maui.

Hawaiian humpback whales

When visiting Maui in the winter, it's worth getting up early to catch the sunrise from Haleakala Crater. The sun's rays dance across the crater and the ocean, making for a breathtaking scene that is unrivaled by any other Hawaii sunrise. In the winter, you can sleep in a little bit longer than in the summer because the sun doesn't rise until later.

Many people flock to this Hawaiian isle every winter as a respite from the dreary weather back home. The best part is that Maui is suitable for all kinds of vacationers, from families to couples to individuals.

Post by Kristin from the Snorkel and Hike blog

The US Virgin Islands are an ideal winter getaway. The Virgin Islands are a paradise for travelers, offering everything from excellent snorkeling and hiking to stunning white sand beaches.

St Thomas is the main island for tourists visiting the US Virgin Islands, so there is plenty to do here. Relax on one of St. Thomas' finest beaches, Magen's Bay, after swimming with sea turtles at nearby Brewer's Bay or taking in the sights from high above on the Paradise Point cable car.

Sapphire Bay Beach, St. St. Thomas, USVI

Get away from it all by taking the ferry to St. John, where the Virgin Islands National Park encompasses more than half of the island. Visit the renowned Trunk Bay, explore the underwater world at Waterlemon Cay, and work up a sweat on the reef bay trail.

The United States Virgin Islands are a tropical paradise where U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit during the winter. This place has everything you need for a fun and exciting excursion or a peaceful getaway.

• Locations of USVI Hotels

1) Plan ahead so that your winter celebrations go smoothly. Here are some essentials to bring along:

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Now that you're familiar with all these destinations, where in the United States do you plan to spend this winter? S A