20 Awesome Places To Visit In January USA

1. Breckenridge, Colorado

I’m a huge fan of this adorable mountain town! It offers incredible ski runs coated in deep powder for much of the winter months, a fun après ski scene, and awesome nightlife.

This month and February, is when the average snowfall is at its highest and I love how the town transforms into an Instagram-worthy snowy paradise! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: The Breckenridge Welcome Centre, 203 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424, Phone: 877 864 0868
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -2°C to -12°C

My favorite highlights…

• Wandering down Main Street, enjoying the magical holiday lights, and stopping off for a warm cup of hot chocolate and a Red Velvet cupcake at the cozy Clint’s Bakery & Coffee House. 
• Going on a fun guided snowmobile tour (with Breckenridge Snowmobiling Tours & Rentals). I loved exploring the scenic backcountry! 
• Visiting the International Snow Sculpture Championships, it was great to watch teams from all over the world hand-carve their creative sculptures! 
• Taking a ride on The Imperial Express SuperChair which is the highest chairlift in North America – I thought the views of the snowy landscapes below were incredible!

2. Palm Desert, California

I’m a big fan of this quirky destination which is located next to Palm Springs in the sun-baked Coachella Valley in California.

I’m always won over by this zen-like spot filled with natural hot springs, luxury hotels, country clubs, gourmet restaurants, golf courses and upscale spa resorts.

Offering warm desert sun when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for winter, Palm Desert is popular among celebrities looking for a blissful winter retreat. 

I love that it’s not too hot or too cold this time of year, so it’s perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and biking to desert treks and golf.

I personally enjoy just lounging by a swimming pool before going for a relaxing treatment at one of the many spas located here! For me it’s pure bliss!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 73510 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 15°C to 22°C

My highlights…

3. Zion National Park, Utah

I’m a big fan of this unique natural reserve located in southwest Utah! It’s filled with gorgeous scenery made up of imposing red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, canyons, gorges, forests and striking sandstone dunes.

The park experiences mild winters compared to other national parks in the country, so I think it’s awesome that are so many walking trails are accessible even during the winter months (there’s just no shuttle system in operation).

When visiting I loved the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the stunning Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the dramatic Kolob Canyons, the peaceful Riverside Walk Trail and the scenic Weeping Rock Trail and they are all accessible this time of year.

I personally think this month is a great time to explore Zion without the crowds you’ll find here in the peak season!

• Visitors Center Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Zion National Park, UT 84767 Phone: (435) 772-3256
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 8°C to 13°C

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking to the Observation Point, I loved the incredible panoramic park views via the scenic East Mesa Trail. 
• Driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It was a winding two-lane road which took us through the park and where we saw magnificent vistas at every turn! 

4. Big Sky, Montana

I think this is a great month to visit Big Sky because of its huge range of family-friendly events and winter activities as well as the magical snowy scenery. 

On my visit I loved the sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice trekking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and the fun après ski scene for those who like to party!

Yellowstone National Park is nearby and when I feel adventurous I stick to the awesome indoor activities instead which includes escape rooms, spa treatments, art galleries, local cooking classes and the interesting Historic Crail Ranch Museum.

I love how the winter evenings in Big Sky, from December to February, are perfect for cozying up in log cabins by roaring fires.

• Visitors Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -9°C to -3°C

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the scenic Ousel Falls Trailhead and discovering the frozen waterfall.
• Exploring the unique boutiques in the town center, I loved the trendy jewelry in the Rhinestone Cowgirl store! 
• Going for fun beginner snowboarding lessons at the Big Sky Resort! 

5. Miami, Florida

Filled with sun-kissed sandy beaches, buzzing beach bars, and opulent At-Deco-style hotels, I can never get enough of this fun city!

Miami is a popular year-round destination, but I personally this month is a great time to visit. I love that there’s no summer vacationers and spring-breakers (!) and that I can find funky hotel stays at more budget-friendly prices.

I also like the warm sub-tropical climates and the seven to eight hours of sunshine. I always enjoy strolling down the famous Ocean Drive, visiting museums such as the funky Vizcaya Museum and Perez Art Museum, and discovering the lively clubs and casinos! 

• Visitors Center Address: 530 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
• Map Location
• Average temperature -18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the city’s attractions on a fun hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour.
• Discovering the Night Garden, a spectacular botanical garden. I loved the stunning seasonal light displays! 
• Relaxing on Miami Beach, I loved the unique Art Deco-style lifeguard towers! 

6. Hunting Island, South Carolina

Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre semi-tropical barrier island located 15 miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina. I always really enjoy visiting here and seeing pristine beaches, green forests, a striking historic lighthouse, and an interesting nature center. 

I love visiting during the the off-peak months, prices are cheaper and I avoid the summer crowds so it feels like I have the island to myself!

On my trip I visited the scenic saltwater lagoon, the soft sandy beaches, the popular fishing pier and the haunting Boneyard Beach which was filled with surreally beautiful tree skeletons.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 16°C

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the unique scenery on the Lighthouse Trail and then climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse. I loved the picturesque view overlooking the coast and nearby islands.
• Taking an evening stroll along the Hunting Island campground and admiring the clear starry skies! 

7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

The dreamily named Heavenly Mountain Resort is located on the southern shores of Lake Tahoe. I’m a big fan of this magical spot in the winter for its powdery slopes, skiing galore, scenic snow-capped mountains and fun après-ski scene! 

I also recommend trying out as many fun things as you can including the snowboarding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing and my personal favorite, the scenic gondola ride which had beautiful panoramic views!

• Visitor Center Address: Explore Tahoe Visitor Center 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -6°C to 4°C 

My personal highlights…

• Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski Party, where the atmosphere was electric, the DJs were fantastic, and the cocktails were superb – all at an exhilarating 9,150 feet above sea level!
• Enjoying the Instagram-worthy views at the observation tower! 

8. Brunswick and The Golden Isles, Georgia

I’m always captivated by the gorgeous The Golden Isles! It’s home to the charming city of Brunswick and the dreamy barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.

Located along Georgia’s Atlantic Coast, I love the scenery here which consists of gorgeous marshlands, thick green forests and long, wide sandy beaches. 

I personally think the off-peak season is an excellent time to visit, as I always avoid the summer crowds and can find some awesome discounts of accommodation (which range from cozy inns to luxury resorts). 

I love the breathtaking views, the interesting historic landmarks and the long, wide golf courses. Throw in that superb southern hospitality, and personally I think this is winter break perfection! 

• Visitor Center Address: 2017 Lee St, Brunswick, GA 31520
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 16°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Catching a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in the Old Town, I loved the retro decor!
• Exploring the art galleries and interesting museums, my favorites were the Glynn Visual Arts and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.
• Spending a night camping at Jekyll Island Campground, I adored gazing at the unpolluted starry skies here!

9. Payette National Forest, Idaho

Based in central-western Idaho, the Payette National Forest is home to 2.3 million acres of peaceful natural beauty and I personally think it’s a fantastic alternative to the bigger-name ski resorts like Aspen.

It’s blessed with 300 inches of snow annually and offers a huge range of fun winter activities. I love the outdoor activities on offer here which include snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, fat biking and even winter camping!

I was also a big fan of the indoor activities which included spa resorts, art galleries, museums, shopping, craft breweries and fun indoor ice skating.

• Visitors Center Address: 500 N Mission St, McCall 83638
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -6°C to 1°C

My highlights…

• Taking beginner snowboarding lessons which was a lot of fun despite the many falls!
• Going on a fun snowmobile tour with Brundage Snowmobile Adventures – the snowy scenery was magical!
• Learning about the county’s interesting history and native tribes at Payette County Museum.

10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

This paradise-like coastal town is located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. I think it’s a seriously dreamy spot filled with blue skies and a tropical climate all year round.

During the summer months (June to October) it can get extremely hot, so the gorgeous temperatures this month provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy its soft, white, powdery beaches.

I loved just sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, shopping, relaxing at the spa resorts, exploring the farmer’s markets and soaking up the laid-back vibes.

This area is one of the warmest places in the country during this time of year and I adore coming here for some winter sun whether its on a package deal or booking independently.

• Visitors Center Address: Big Island Guide 73-4318 Keokeo St, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 27°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a tour to see the Kīlauea Volcano and an interesting coffee farm (there are many located here)!
• Discovering the uniquely beautiful Punaluu Black Sand Beach after buying food for a picnic Punalu’u Bake Shop.
• Visiting the famous Akaka Falls, which stands at 442 feet high. I found it by following the scenic Akaka Falls Loop Trail.

11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah

Located in Wasatch Mountains of Utah, in my opinion these two magical resorts are a skiers paradise! Offering some of the best opportunities for winter activities in the whole country, Alta averages 550 inches of snow annually, so the season is very long and varied.

Snowbird is located a mile from Alta and is famous for having a all-year-round ski season – it lasts over 200 days! I love that it also offers a wide array of slopes, so all levels of skiing abilities are welcome here.

This month sees heavy snowfall in both resorts which covers the top of an already thick covering. I’m also a big fan of the bright, clear days here which enables me to see stunning panoramic views in all their glory as I head up and down the ski lift!

• Visitors Center Address: 9260 E Lodge Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092 Phone: (801) 933-2222
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -9°C to -1°C

My personal highlights…

• Indulging in a luxury aromatherapy massage at the upscale Cliff Spa.
• Experiencing thrilling helicopter skiing (with Powderbird) on a fresh powder day, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 
• Going on a guided ski tour with Snowcat skiing, I loved discovering the tranquil backcountry trails.

12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

This surreally beautiful spot always wows me and I think it makes a fantastic destination to explore in the winter. Located in southern New Mexico, this protected area is home to one world’s largest gypsum dunefield! 

I love how its filled with seemingly endless stretches of bright white sand, unique species of fauna and flora that incredibly survive in these inhospitable conditions and active dunes which move at a rate of up to 30 feet per year.

It’s too hot to visit here in summer, so in my opinion winter is definitely the best time to discover this unusual gem! 

• Visitor Center Address: 19955 US-70 W, Alamogordo, NM 88310 Phone: (575) 479-6124
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 4°C to 13°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Sledging down the sand dunes which was a fun experience (just remember to cover your face if you try it too take it from me, the sand gets everywhere)! 
• Spending two nights camping under the unbelievably clear starry skies at Campsite #1 (there are ten campsites in total to choose from).

13. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California that borders the Great Basin Desert and is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet.

Temperatures are extremely hot and can be dangerous in the summer, so in my opinion, this month is a much better time to discover its surreal wonders.

On my visit I loved seeing the incredible salt flat Badwater Basin, Dante’s View (which had stunning views), the extraordinary Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the interesting historic mansion Scotty’s Castle and trying spotting wildlife that lives here such as the desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and the tiny pupfish which live in the pools that are saltier than seawater!

• Visitor Center Address: 328 Greenland Blvd, Death Valley, CA 92328 Phone: (760) 786-3200
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 19°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a drive along Artists Drive and discovering the beautiful colorful rock formations in Artists Palette.
• Stargazing in a sky free from light pollution! 
• Hiking over Golden Canyon, where I saw some seriously Instagram-worthy views.
• Catching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the most iconic places in the valley. The unique panoramic views were really beautiful!

14. San Diego, California

I personally think San Diego is a excellent city to visit in the off-peak season because it’s home to a year-round Mediterranean-like climate with plenty of sunshine! 

Yes the temperatures are cooler compared with other months, but they’re still pleasant and for me it’s a great escape from cold, dreary weather.

I love coming here and making the most of the beautiful beaches (it’s warm enough to lounge on them even this time of year!), the award-winning restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent artistic and cultural attractions, which I think are more enjoyable to explore without the crazy crowds!

I always make sure I visit the stunning Balboa Park, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, the pretty Japanese Botanical Gardens, and the historic Old Town.

• Visitor Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 19°C

My highlights…

• Exploring the 4-mile-long trails in the beautiful Botanic Gardens which took me past a towering bamboo forest! 
• Visiting the Old Town and dining on homemade polbano pepper corn dough quesadillas at El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria. 
• Exploring all the main attractions on the fun hop-on-hop-off trolley tour. 

15. Mount Baker, Washington

I love this low-key ski and snowboarding resort in Washington where snow levels reach up to 17 meters per season and has great opportunities for backcountry skiing.

It’s not as well known as other ski resorts in the country, so I find it’s generally less crowded making it a more relaxed choice.

Along with its groomed ski trails, I always love getting involved in the other fun winter activities such as snowmobiling, tubing, cross-country skiing, sledging, and exploring the spellbinding old-growth forest on a snowshoeing tour – it looks magical this time of year!

• Visitor Center Address: 7509 Mount Baker Hwy, Maple Falls, WA 98266
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -5°C to 1°C

My favorite highlights…

• Trying the locally brewed craft beers at the North Fork Beer Shrine.
• Trying out snow tubing which was a lot of fun!

16. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas

Located off the coast of Texas, South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island and I’m a huge fan of its soft sandy beaches, calm waters and dolphin watching boat tours.

Summers can get very hot, and spring attracts large crowds, so I personally think winter, when temperatures are pleasantly warm, is the best time to take a trip here. It’s also make a budget trip with cheap, off-peak prices.

A short trip away is Port Isabel, which is separated from the shores of South Padre Island by the 2.6-mile-long Queen Isabella Causeway.

I loved exploring the scenic Laguna Madre Nature Trail which has a long boardwalk perfect for birdwatching and then going for a romantic picnic in the pretty Isla Blanca Park! 

• Visitor Center Address: 600 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 11°C to 20°C

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting one of the most Instagrammable spots, Holiday Sandcastle Village, and gazing at the incredible life-size sand sculptures! 
• Taking a trip to the entertainment district and trying out the ferris wheel, mini-golf courses and fun go-karts.
• Discovering the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Centre which had an amazing boardwalk trail.

17. Moosehead Lake, Maine

I love this place for a unique, under-the-radar winter destination! This deep, cold-water lake in the Longfellow Mountains is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States and in winter, the nearby Squaw Mountain is also open to snowboarders and skiers.

The winter lake scenery is magical this time of year and to make the most of the picturesque scenery, I rent a rustic log cabin and cozy up by a log fire – it’s very romantic!

On my trip I went cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking the snowshoe trails by day. When night falls, I stargaze and try to spot the Northern Lights!

• Visitor Center Address: 480 Moosehead Lake Rd, Greenville, ME 04441
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -7°C to -2°C

My highlights…

• Starting the day by eating hearty breakfast cooked on a campfire around the lake, which set me up for a full day of snowy activities! 
• Taking an awesome snowmobile ride along the scenic Moosehead Trail. 

18. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

I find this place to be so dreamy and unique! Located in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven small islands and protected coral reefs. 

I head here when I need some winter sun and as the name suggests, it has a dry winter season which spans from November to March. This is when there is little or no rainfall and it’s not as hot and humid as the summer months.

I always enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing on the gorgeous beaches, the water sports like kayaking and boating and trying to spot the stunning rare birds such as the brown noddy and brown pelicans! 

My personal favorite islands were Loggerhead Key, which had a scenic lighthouse and sea turtles, and Garden Key, which was home to gorgeous beaches and the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.

• Visitor Center Address: Florida Keys, FL 33040 Phone: (305) 294-7009
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Snorkeling at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins which has the reputation of being the best snorkeling spot in Florida. 
• Taking a walk around the lush Bush Key which had long sandy beaches – I loved the driftwood and the interesting birds such as pelicans and herons.

19. Tucson, Arizona

I’m a big fan of this vibrant city located in the Sonoran Desert. During the summer months the temperatures can be very extreme so I highly recommend visiting during the winter months instead.

Tucson has been dubbed the ‘City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO, and I love that it’s filled with cuisine inspired by a huge range of influences from Spanish and Native American to Mexican.

I’m always charmed by the spectacular natural beauty which is made up of a stunning surrounding mountain range, national parks and pine forests.

Om my trip I visited the scenic Saguaro National Park, majestic Mount Lemmon, the extraordinary Colossal Cave Mountain Park, beautiful open-air museums and gardens, and the interesting old town which was filled with striking Spanish Colonial and Mexican buildings.

• Visitor Center Address: Southern Tucson Visitor Center, 115 N. Church Ave. Tucson, AZ 85701
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C to 18°C 

My personal highlights…

20. Fairbanks, Alaska

This place always wows me in the winter! One of Alaska’s largest cities, it’s an awesome place for watching the incredible Northern Lights as its located directly underneath the most active light region known as the Auroral Oval! 

I personally think this is month is a great time to visit as the cold weather tends to keep the crowds away and its officially off-season, so it’s possible to find some great deals on flights, hotels, and tours.

I love how the snowy scenery is also very photogenic and sunrises and sunsets last around one to one and a half hours this time of year, transforming the sky into a kaleidoscope of oranges, pinks and blues.

I always enjoy sledging, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and taking a warming dip in the nearby Chena Hot Springs (which was my favorite thing to do)! 

• Visitor Center Address: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
• Map Location
• Average temperature –  -23°C to -16°C

My highlights…