20 Amazing Places To Visit In February In The USA

A winter trip offers fewer crowds, better deals, and stunning scenery! Whether you enjoy snowy landscapes or seek warmer weather, here are my destination choices for this month…

1. Big Sky, Montana

Located Montana, Big Sky is a winter paradise filled with snowy landscapes, outdoor activities galore and outstanding skiing. 

This month is an ideal time to visit, as January and February bring peak snowfall, offering perfect skiing and snowboarding conditions.

By this time, the busiest season has passed, leading to fewer crowds, shorter lift lines, and more space to explore the pristine wilderness. You can also find some great deals on accommodations and activities.

The scenery is especially magical this time of year with snow-covered mountains, forests and cozy cabins complete with roaring log fires.

Aside from skiing I suggest trying out as many winter activities as you can, including sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, and cross-country skiing.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT, Phone: 406-995-3000
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 10°C to 0°C

My highlights…

• Trying a Sno-go ski bike which was a lot of fun!
• Going on a headlamp night skiing tour underneath the starry skies.
• Enjoy a cozy dining experience at the beautifully decorated log-cabin style Horn and Cantle. I highly recommend trying the cedar plank mushrooms! 
• Checking at the après ski scene here, I loved the lively Scissorbills Saloon the upscale Alpenglow at the Summit Hotel.

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Visitors’ Center Address: 339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 20°C

My personal highlights…

• The Mardi Gras parades were free to attend and offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
• Trying the glazed colorful King Cake which is a Mardi Gras tradition!
• Watching live jazz at both the legendary Preservation Hall and the intimate The Spotted Cat Music Club.

3. Mendocino, Northern California

Mendocino is a lesser know gem in Northern California home to beautiful coastal scenery, Victorian architecture, charming inns and shops, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a thriving art community and quirky charm.

Its perched on coastal cliffs, surrounded by majestic redwood forests, with excellent hiking and biking trails weaving through the natural landscapes. With sunshine and scenic views, it’s a gorgeous destination all year around but I personally think this a particularly interesting time to take a trip here.

The weather is cool but not too cold, there are far fewer crowds and there’s a much more of a local and intimate vibe this time of year which I love.

I recommend exploring the stunning shorelines, cliffside trails, breathtaking beaches and the interesting cultural attractions such as the Mendocino Headlands State Park and Museum, Mendocino Art Center, the scenic Russian Gulch State Park and the photogenic Point Cabrillo Light Station! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: Ford House Visitor Center & Museum 45035 Main Street, Mendocino, CA 95460
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 13°C to 16°C

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a ride on one of the country’s best historic rail tours, The Skunk Train (which starts in Mendocino)
  and admiring the picturesque landscapes along the way. I recommend taking the Fort Bragg to Glen Blair Junction route.
• Enjoying a hike along the Headlands State Park coast and catching some Instagram-worthy shots.
• Strolling down Main Street and discovering several cute art galleries which have been collecting art since the 1960s.
• Exploring the beautiful sandy Big River Beach and Van Damme State Beach which had interesting tide pools and sea caves.

4. San Antonio, Texas

Located in south-central Texas, San Antonio is vibrant and well-loved city known for its Spanish colonial heritage, lively vibe and great cultural attractions.

Texan summers are scorching with high humidity, but this month brings warm, much more comfortable temperatures with significantly less humidity.

There’s also fewer crowds, discounts on accommodation and a calendar of awesome events. These include the Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival & River Parade where the River Walk transforms into a floating festival and the annual Cupid 5K Chase.

I also suggest not missing the Alamo, a historic Spanish mission and former fortress (now preserved as a museum), the San Antonio River, and the buzzy River Walk which is filled with quirky cafes, cool hotels, excellent restaurants, and interesting shops.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Dining at trendy Mexican restaurant the Iron Cactus on the Riverwalk, I highly recommend the tasty Chile Con Queso!
• Catching a live country music show at the Crockett Tavern.
• Experiencing the colorful and lively Mardi Gras celebrations! 

5. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a famous desert valley in eastern California known for its surreally beautiful landscapes, scorching summer temperatures and interesting wildlife and flora.

This month is a much safer and more pleasant time to explore and there fewer crowds than the spring season. The soft winter light is ideal for photography, and you might even spot some early wildflowers starting to bloom.

I highly recommend seeing the most famous and extraordinary sites which include the incredible Badwater Basin, the surreal Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and the jaw-dropping Zabriskie Point.

• Visitors’ Center Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Taking Instagram-worthy shots of all the incredible landmarks.
• Taking advantage of the clear skies and lack of light pollution to indulge in star gazing!
• Trying to spot the coyotes, roadrunners, and lizards which all call this park home!

6. Palm Springs, California

Located in Coachella Valley, surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains, this funky desert city is known for its mid-century modern architecture, sunny weather, upscale resorts, hot springs, world-class golf courses, fine-dining and its quirky outlook on life! 

It’s the perfect escape from the cold, offering warm temperatures that provide an ideal getaway to beat the winter blues. The weather is also perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, swimming, relaxing by the pool, riding the aerial tramway, or exploring nearby spots like Joshua Tree National Park and Tahquitz Canyon.

There’s also fewer crowds than the busier months of March and April and some awesome events take place this month including Modernism Week, a vibrant celebration of the popular architecture style they have here, and the famous Palm Springs International Film Festival.

• Visitors’ Center Address:  2901 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a tour around some of the famous resident’s houses, such as Elvis’s Honeymoon Hideaway, Marilyn Monroe’s House, and Dean Martin’s Home.
• Taking a trip to the Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Markets, I suggest seeking out the Branch and Vine olive oil company and the Canyon Creek Mushrooms.
• Relaxing at the zen-like Spa La Quinta and trying the Cucumber Melon Body Therapy treatment! 

7. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

Located near Vail, deep in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado this is a spectacular ski resort known for its superb snow quality, incredible slopes, alpine-inspired architecture and its expansive 5,000 acres of skiable terrain.

In addition to the on-slope action, I suggest discovering the excellent gourmet restaurants, buzzy local bars, luxury boutiques, upscale spas, and its lively après scene.

• Visitors’ Center Address: Vail Welcome Center 241 South Frontage Rd., Suite 8150 Vail, CO 81657
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 4°C to 2°C

My highlights…

• Checking out the après scene – I loved the delicious craft cocktails at The Remedy Bar and the Shakedown Bar for its live music.
• Dining at the chic Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa Vail, the Cucumber Sunomono was divine!
• Experiencing fun activities such as snow tubing, ski biking, and the alpine coaster at Adventure Ridge.

8. The Keys, Florida

The string of tropical islands are situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 100 miles south of Florida. They’re known for their quirky, bohemian communities, incredible sunsets, gorgeous beaches and miles of idyllic island scenery. 

If you’re looking to escape cold winter weather than this an excellent choice, the days are very warm during this month and there’s also lower humidity than the rest of the year. It’s also a slightly quieter month (the busiest are December and January) with less crowds and some good deals on hotels and rentals if you shop around. 

Street festivals also take place during this month and it’s also warm enough for swimming and other water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

I recommend exploring the land-based attractions too which include art galleries, local boutiques, buzzy bars (especially on Key West) and excellent restaurants. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106240 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 24°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

• Taking a romantic sunset sail with Sunset Sail Key West and celebrating the breathtaking views with a champagne toast!
• Going on a tandem parasailing trip over the sparkling blue waters with Land’s End Parasail. 
• Trying out the restaurants on the The Historic Seaport Boardwalk in Key West, I especially loved the old-school Schooner Wharf Bar and Turtle Kraals which offered up creative Caribbean-inspired dishes.
• Visiting the fascinating Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum which was once his former home.

9. Leavenworth, Washington

Post-card pretty Leavenworth is nestled in the beautiful Cascade Mountains of Washington, 100 miles east of Seattle. It’s a charming gem of a place with a Bavarian theme following throughout the village, from its timber architecture and welcoming restaurants to its German-inspired street names. 

This month, the enchanting mountain village transforms into a romantic winter wonderland, with snow-covered streets and twinkling lights – making it a great choice for a unique Valentine’s Day getaway.

Along with fewer crowds and off-peak accommodation deals, there’s a full calendar of events, including the Bavarian Icefest, featuring ice sculptures, live entertainment, and fireworks, as well as charming Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Add in fantastic opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and ice climbing, plus the town’s alpine architecture, upscale spas, gourmet dining, and cozy bars, and I personally think this is the recipe for a perfect winter escape!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 0°C to 5°C

My personal highlights…

• Going snowshoeing around the magical Icicle Gorge Nature Loop trail.
• Dining on a tasty wild mushroom risotto at the upscale Watershed Café
• Going tubing at Leavenworth Ski Hill.

10. Hot Springs, North Carolina

You’ll find this charming and laid-back little town located along the banks of the French Broad River in the stunning Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina. 

It’s surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and gorgeous hiking trails, including the legendary Appalachian Trail (which actually runs directly through the town) but the main attraction here is the natural hot mineral springs which are said to have therapeutic properties. 

Visitors can enjoy the outdoor hot tubs year-round, but I personally think there’s something especially magical about soaking in the springs during the winter.

Plus during the off-peak season you’ll find some great accommodation discounts and far fewer crowds for a more blissful experience! I recommend heading to the Hot Springs Resort & Spa to make the most of the best wellness facilities located here.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 8°C to 12°C 

My highlights…

• Attending the yoga and meditation sessions at the zen-like Laughing Heart Lodge.
• Browsing the artisanal shops in downtown Hot Springs and finding handmade crafts and quirky, unique gifts, my favorite was the Artisun Gallery and Marketplace.
• Soaking in a “Signature Mineral Bath” at the Hot Springs Resort & Spa which came with a private cabana-style deck. 

11. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Located in Nevada an hour’s drive northeast of Las Vegas, this is a truly stunning protected area filled with towering red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and Instagram-worthy desert landscapes. 

Temperatures in the park during the summer months can be extremely hot (dangerously so!), so this is an excellent time to explore. It’s also a much safer time to discover all the scenic hiking trails (the Fire Wave Trail, White Domes Trail and the Mouse’s Tank Trail are some of the best), the ancient rock carvings and the surreally beautiful petrified trees.

I recommend exploring the colorful sandstone formations of Rainbow Vista, the narrow, colorful slot canyon named as Pink Canyon, the iconic Fire Wave (pictured above), the impressive pillars of the Seven Sisters, the intriguing Fire Cave formation and the striking and photogenic Beehives.

• Visitors’ Center Address: Valley of Fire Visitor Center, Overton, NV 89040
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 15°C to 21°C

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a hike on the Rainbow Vista Trail which ended in a scenic overlook where I saw the incredible views of the Fire Canyon.
• Going on a scenic drive through the valley – it was a comfortable way to fit in a lot of the extraordinary landmarks!
• Trying to spot wildlife which is more active in the cooler temperatures – both desert bighorn sheep and lizards call this place home!

12. Alta, Utah

This fantastic ski mountain resort is located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah in Salt Lake County and is known for its wide array of slopes, deep powder and exciting terrain. 

This month is an excellent time to take a trip here as the skiing conditions are just right – there’s consistent fresh powder, a deep snowpack and there tends to be much less ice on the slopes too.

As well as the bright blue skies contrasting with the brilliant white snow making everything incredibly scenic, there’s fewer crowds than the peak months of December and January and more reasonable prices too.

I highly recommend checking out all the winter outdoor activities on offer as well as the lively Après-Ski scene, the ski races and the competitions (which often take place in February).

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10351 UT-210, Alta, UT 84092
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 3°C to 2°C 

My highlights…

• Hiring a fat bike and taking the nearby scenic route to Big Cottonwood Canyon’s Mill D North Fork Trail.
• Warming up with a gingerbread hot chocolate and Salted Caramel Pretzel Sticks at Hatch Family Chocolates. 

13. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

One of the most-loved and well-known national parks in the world, Yellowstone is filled with exceptional natural beauty, geothermal features and diverse wildlife.

Although summer is the most popular time to visit, I personally think this month is a unique and magical time to take a trip here with far fewer crowds and incredible light for photography.

There’s also lots of Intagram-worthy scenes of dreamy snow-covered landscapes, steamy geysers and wildlife which emerge from their hiding spots to forage for food. Bison, elk and wolves all can be spotted here.

Although the roads and hiking trails are snow-covered and inaccessible for regular use, many trails remain open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Additionally, guided snowmobile tours and snowcoaches provide a way to explore the park’s stunning winter landscapes.

• Visitors’ Center Address: Grand Loop Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 0 to -15 degrees

My highlights…

• Going on an exciting snowmobile guided tour with Brush Buck Tours. 
• Photographing the picturesque scenery on a snow coach tour – I loved watching the bison move through the snow and breathe puffs of frosty steam!  

14. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Located in northeastern Arizona I personally think this is a unique and wonderful beauty spot. It’s a protected park which spans over 220,000 acres and is filled with ancient fossilized trees, brightly coloured Badlands, plant and animal fossils, and stunning desert vistas. 

The summer heat here can reach dangerously high levels, making the winter months a much better time to explore. You’ll also encounter fewer crowds, and unlike many other national parks, all the roads and trails remain open. The conditions are also perfect for long hikes – just be sure to bring layers for the warmer daytime temperatures as well. 

I highly recommend exploring the ancient Puerco Pueblo site which are the remains of a 600 year old village adorned with interesting petroglyphs, the extraordinary Painted Desert (a huge area of colorful badlands), the petroglyph-covered Newspaper Rock, and Rainbow Forest a surreal but very photogenic spot filled with petrified wood.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 16°C

My favorite highlights…

• Checking out Rainbow Forest Museum at the visitor center where I saw fossils from the Late Triassic period! 
• Strolling along the short Crystal Forest loop and admiring the beautiful wood log deposits.
• Discovering the Blue Mesa Trail where I saw the incredible colorful badlands and pieces of petrified wood.
• Driving on the famous Historic Route 66 which travels through the park!

15. Kirkwood, California

This scenic mountain town located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California (35 miles southwest of South Lake Tahoe) offers a quieter and more low-key skiing destination. It’s also very family-friendly and caters to all levels and abilities. 

This time of year it turns into a scenic snowy paradise with deep powder and plenty of fresh snowfall perfect for making the most of the steep terrain and challenging runs. 

Kirkwood is a more affordable ski resort generally (compared to other more famous resorts in the state) but if you shop around you can find some even more awesome deals during this month.

I suggest trying to time your visit around the ski races, terrain park competitions that take place and while here also discovering the excellent restaurants, spas and vibrant Après-Ski scene – The Cornice Grille and the cozy The Wall Bar are great places to start!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Drive Kirkwood, CA 95646
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 4°C to 4°C

My personal highlights…

• Watching the snowboarders do incredible tricks at the quarterpipe. 
• Going cross-country skiing on the Caples Crest Trail which had stunning snowy vistas.
• Going snowshoeing on the beautiful Winnemucca Lake Trail. 

16. San Diego, California

The sunny big city located in the south of California (near the Mexican border) has strong Mexican and Hispanic influences and is filled with gorgeous beaches and a laid back vibe. 

It’s also famous for its year-round sunshine and mild climate, making it the perfect escape from cold, gloomy weather while offering a much-needed dose of vitamin D! This month, you’ll also find a quieter, more local vibe and discounts on accommodation.

While it’s not quite warm enough to swim in the ocean comfortably this time of year, I recommend relaxing on its sandy beaches, exploring the family and dog-friendly parks, shopping in its eclectic neighborhoods and discovering the excellent restaurants.

I also suggest making time to visit the charming Gaslamp Quarter, the lively Old Town, the serene Japanese Friendship Garden, and exploring the many art galleries, museums, and beautiful gardens throughout the city.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C to 18°C

My highlights…

• Experiencing a breathtaking sunset boat tour with Sail San Diego.
• Relaxing with a zen-like Korean Massage at the Aqua Day Spa.
• Hiking along the trails at Torrey Pines State Park, I loved the incredible panoramic views!

17. Magic Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont

Located in picturesque Londonderry, Vermont, Magic Mountain Ski Resort offers a relaxed, intimate ski experience – perfect for families and those seeking a more classic, laid-back approach to skiing.

Nestled on Glebe Mountain, it’s home to steep, narrow trails, glade skiing, affordable prices and an incredible 1,500-foot vertical drop which also makes it a great option for advanced skiers. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 495 Magic Mountain Access Londonderry, VT 05148
• Map Location
• Average temperature – minus 6°C to minus 1°C

My highlights…

• Experiencing the Cozy Après-Ski scene – I loved the live music at the Black Line Tavern and the upscale dining at the Red Slate Restaurant and Bar.
• Trying Uphill Skiing (Skins) for the first time!

18. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

This is a stunning lesser-known destination which is often called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon.” Located in southwest Georgia, it’s filled with unique protected natural scenery spanning just over 1,000 acres, extraordinary geological formations, colorful ravines and no less than sixteen colorful canyons. 

This month is a great time to discover this gem, with much more comfortable weather than the summer months, where temperatures can soar to 35°C. It’s perfect for hiking, and with far fewer crowds, you’ll find better opportunities for photography too.

When here, I highly recommend discovering the many excellent hiking trails – Canyon Loop Trail which offered some of the best viewpoints in the park and the Backcountry Trail which took me deep into the rugged terrain were my favorites.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 8930 Canyon Rd. Lumpkin GA 31815
• Map Location
• Average temperature -13°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying over at the very rustic primitive backcountry campsite located along the Providence Canyon backcountry trail. The owner’s were super friendly!
• Seeing the old abandoned car wrecks left from the previous landowners in 1950s which I thought made great quirky features!

19. St Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is an elegant and historic city founded in Florida’s northeastern coast in 1565. It’s known for its Spanish heritage, historic landmarks, gorgeous beaches and romantic, laid-back vibe.

The weather is mild and pleasant this time of year with 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day and its also less humid than the summer months. It’s also off-season which means better rates on accommodation and far fewer crowds and tourists to contend with. 

Although the ocean isn’t quite warm enough to swim comfortably, you can still relax on the beach and there are many events taking place this month including the lively Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series, the fun and family-friendly Old City Pirate Fest and the St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival.

I also highly recommend exploring the impressive Spanish masonry fort, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the interesting St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, the charming San Sebastian Winery and for something a little different I recommend going on a spooky ghost tour!

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°C to 21°C

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a wander down St George Street which was filled with a collection of art galleries, independent shops, and fine restaurants.
• Learning about the history at Oldest House Museum and discovering what life was like in St Augustine years ago.
• Drinking the water from Ponce de Leon’s Spring of Eternal Hope at The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park! 

20. Table Rock State Park, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a quieter, lesser known national park then the Table Rock State Park located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, in northwestern South Carolina is a great option. It’s more under-the-radar but it’s no less beautiful with stunning natural scenery, excellent hiking trails, huge granite cliffs, two picturesque lakes, waterfalls and the tallest mountain in the state. 

The temperatures and humidity can be very high in the summer so this month is a great time to visit, especially if you’re planning to go on longer hikes. There’s also far fewer crowds, fewer mosquitoes and ticks and the whole park has a cozy vibe during the winter months.

I especially love staying one of their historic log cabins (built by the Civilian Conservation Corps) complete with a roaring fire this time of year.

I also suggest bird and wildlife spotting (look out for the white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, Eastern Bluebirds and raccoons), going on scenic drives and exploring the many miles of hiking trails – my favorites were the Table Rock Trail and the Pinnacle Mountain Trail.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 158 E. Ellison Lane Pickens, SC 29671
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the Pinnacle Mountain Trail which took me through lush forests, across scenic stream crossings, and past stunning viewpoints, eventually leading to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain.
• Experiencing a romantic Valentine’s break in a cozy log cabin!