Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in February in the USA

Taking a trip in February has many benefits, including fewer crowds, better deals, and atmospheric scenery that often verges on the truly spectacular!

You can either embrace the cold and have as much fun as possible in the snowy landscapes or head to states where you’re guaranteed warmer weather. From my many trips, here are my favorite incredible places to visit this month…

1. Big Sky, Montana

I personally think that Big Sky, Montana, is the perfect winter destination, given the fantastic snowfall (that falls in January and this month) and the abundance of winter activities it offers.

This month is an excellent time to visit Big Sky because snow levels provide great slopes for skiing and snowboarding. I highly recommend participating in all winter activities, including sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice trekking, and cross-country skiing.

I love the fun and lively après ski scene here, and I love that there are loads of other indoor activities, such as escape rooms. While here, I would also suggest visiting the famous Yellowstone National Park, just an hour’s drive away! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT, Phone: 406-995-3000
• Average temperature – 2 to -13 degrees

My highlights…

• Trying a Sno-go ski bike.
• Going on a headlamp night skiing tour underneath the starry skies.
• Enjoy a cozy dining experience at the log-cabin style Horn and Cantle.

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

I personally think the best time to visit New Orleans is from this month to May when the weather is comfortably cool, and the celebrations are in full swing!  I love visiting this month because it hosts various events, festivals, and holidays—the vibe is electric!

Of course, the famous Mardi Gras festival typically falls during this month. I highly recommend participating in the celebrations and parades, as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 

I would also suggest getting involved in the vibrant nightlife, live music scene, and spicy, singular cuisine from its history of French, African, and American cultures.

Some interesting sights that I would recommend visiting include the French Quarter, the Garden District, and the National WWII Museum.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• Average temperature – 19 degrees

My personal highlights…

• The Mardi Gras parades which were free to attend and a lot of fun! 
• Tasting the tasty king cake filled with cinnamon and topped with icing.
• Watching a live jazz music performance.

3. Mendocino, Northern California

With sunshine and scenic views all year round, the Mendocino Coast is a beautiful destination at any time of the year.

However, I personally think this month is the ideal time to visit for those looking to get away from the cold, snowy winters and bask in the warm sun and fresh ocean breeze. Temperatures usually range from the low 40s to high 70s here.

I’m always enchanted by the picturesque landscapes, which feature stunning shorelines, magical sea caves, cliffside trails, and breathtaking beaches.

This coastal city has a delightful, quirky vibe and is a unique, lesser-known gem. It also offers lots of land and sea adventure activities.

I recommend exploring Mendocino Headlands State Park and Museum, Mendocino Art Center, Russian Gulch State Park, and my personal favorite, the quaint 1909 Point Cabrillo Light Station! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: Ford House Visitor Center & Museum 45035 Main Street, Mendocino, CA 95460
• Average temperature – 12 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Taking ride on one of the country’s best rail tours, The Skunk Train and admiring the most picturesque landscapes.
• Enjoying a hike along the Headlands State Park coast and catching some Insta-worthy shots.
• Strolling down Main Street and discovering several art galleries which have been collecting art since the 1960s.

4. San Antonio, Texas

I love this gem of a city in south-central Texas known for its rich colonial heritage. San Antonio’s sights include the Alamo, an 18th-century Spanish mission preserved as a Museum, the San Antonio River, and the miles-long River Walk.

I especially loved the promenade, which is filled with cafes, boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops.

This month is a great time to visit as many events occur, including the Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival & River Parade, the annual Cupid 5K Chase and their version of Mardi Gras! 

Texan summers are almost unbearable, with high humidity and temperatures exceeding 90F, so I think the fewer crowds and pleasant weather make this month a far better time to visit! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205 
• Average temperature – 20 degrees

My highlights…

• Enjoying a wander along the River Walk, Paseo del Rio which is known as one of the city’s most significant attractions.
• Experiencing authentic country music at a live performance event.
• Experiencing the colorful and fun Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival & River Parade. 

5. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a desert valley in eastern California at the edge of the Great Basin Desert. It is known to be one of the hottest places on Earth and is often compared with deserts in the Middle East and the Sahara.

As one of the hottest, driest, and lowest national parks and places in the world, Death Valley has unbearably blistering summer temperatures. So, I would suggest visiting in the winter instead, as it’s a safer time to visit!

This month’s temperatures are still hot, at 23 degrees, but they’re nowhere near the summer’s soaring and often risky temperatures.

The national park in the valley is known for its unique wildlife. I recommend spotting the desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and tiny pupfish, which live in pools that are saltier than seawater.

I’ve experienced breathtaking views by day and stargazing across this mesmerizing landscape by night—bliss! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees

My highlights…

• Taking a hike along Zabriskie Point Trail which led to an Instagrammable viewpoint overlooking the landscape.
• Taking binoculars and visiting the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to experience the magical stargazing skies. 
• Exploring the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes which was an otherworldly experience!

6. Palm Springs, California

I honestly think this is the perfect place to escape cold winter weather, and I’m a big fan of this funky little city! Located 100 miles east of Los Angeles in the Coachella Valley region of the Sonoran Desert, the popular resort city is known for its clear blue skies, soft sunshine, natural hot springs, and luxurious amenities.

With gorgeous boutique hotels, fine dining restaurants, world-class golf courses, and amazing weather, it is no surprise that Palm Desert is a winter favorite pick, especially among celebrities!

Summertime can get extremely hot, so this month is a great time to visit because temperatures are not too hot, at around 80F, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, sunbathing, and spa pampering. 

• Visitors’ Center Address:  2901 North Palm Canyon Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262
• Average temperature – 24 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram car – the views were incredible! 
• Taking tours 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, to purchase locally-grown produce.
• Relaxing at the incredible Spa La Quinta.

7. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

Located near Vail in Eagle County, Vail Ski Resort is a spectacular ski resort known for its quality of snow and slopes. Vail’s varied landscape offers over 5000 acres of skiable area.

Besides skiing and winter sports opportunities, Vail offers pristine conditions with the perfect combination of over 300 days of sunshine and over 370 inches of snow each year.

With plenty of fresh powder and tons of accessible terrain, I personally think this month is prime time to visit Colorado, especially the ski resort of Vail.

In addition to on-slope action, I suggest discovering the incredible gourmet restaurants, local pubs, high-class entertainment, shopping, and a lively après scene.

The lovely Vail Village, designed with cobblestone streets and alpine-inspired architecture, is picturesque! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: Vail Welcome Center 241 South Frontage Rd., Suite 8150 Vail, CO 81657
• Average temperature – -4 to -18 degrees

My highlights…

• Going on beginner snowboarding lessons, it’s not as easy as it looks! 
• Spending the afternoon skating around the outdoor ice rinks in the town.
• Experiencing fun activities such as snow tubing, ski biking, and the alpine coaster at Adventure Ridge.

8. The Keys, Florida

The tropical islands of Florida Keys are situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 100 miles south of Florida.

These fabulous islands are known for their relaxing atmosphere, seaside sunshine, and gorgeous scenery. I recommend boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving to make the most of this beautiful area.

Other attractions include art galleries, local boutiques, and fresh seafood. The southernmost city of Key West is famous for its bustling bars, Mallory Square’s nightly Sunset Celebration, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum! 

I personally think this month is a great time to visit, with winter crowds tapering off, hotel prices becoming reasonable in Key Largo and Key West, and the weather conditions being optimal in the 70s and 80s.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106240 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037
• Average temperature – 24 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Taking a romantic sunset sail whilst admiring breathtaking views with a champagne toast.
• Going parasailing overlooking the crystal-clear blue waters.
• Taking a stroll along the historic seaport boardwalk and taste some freshly prepared seafood.

9. Leavenworth, Washington

Tucked in the Cascade Mountains of Washington, 100 miles east of Seattle, is beautiful Leavenworth. I think it’s a charming gem of a place with full-on Bavarian vibes, from architecture and street names to seasonal festivals and tourist attractions.

This month, there is a packed calendar of activities, including wine tasting, snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledging, live music events, and other typical winter activities.

With beautiful architecture, cozy cafes, and gourmet restaurants, I think Leavenworth is the perfect winter escape that takes you right to the heart of Europe! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
• Average temperatures – 6 to -5 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Going snowshoeing on the Icicle Gorge Nature Loop trail.
• Indulging in a tasty fondue at the popular Pavz Café Bistro.
• Go sledging on the tubing hill.

10. Hot Springs, North Carolina

Nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River, I love this gem of a city rich in history and culture.

Only a short distance from Asheville, this charming town is the intersection along the historic Appalachian Trail. Hot Springs is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts as the scenic Pisgah National Forest surrounds it.

I highly recommend exploring the various hiking paths, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or visiting Rich Mountain Lookout Tower.

However, as the name suggests, Hot Spring is best known for its hot mineral springs. Though the hot mineral springs are open year-round, the experience of soaking in hot water at temperatures of 102F in cold climates is truly unique, and I would highly recommend it!

I personally think is the perfect destination for anyone interested in outdoor adventure, healing, relaxation, or even a romantic getaway! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 106 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
• Average temperature – 11 degrees

My highlights

• Relaxing in the famous hot mineral waters at Hot Springs Resort & Spa.
• Tasting hearty cuisine at the Smokey Mountain Diner.
• For those who like to party, have a glass of wine or craft beer at one of the live entertainment events.

11. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park is known for its 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops tucked in grey and tan limestone.

My favorite natural attractions include the Rainbow Vista, Pink Canyon, Fire Wave, White Domes, Seven Sisters, Fire Cave, and Beehives Cave, and they are all jaw-dropping! 

This historic park houses ancient petrified trees and petroglyphs that date back more than 2,000 years. Walking through this park is truly like walking through history!

Summers in the Nevada region can be extremely hot and harsh, so in my opinion, this is a great month to visit as temperatures are far more pleasant.

You can go hiking or trekking, but personally I would just recommend exploring and taking in the incredible scenery! 

• Visitors’ Center Address:  Valley of Fire Visitor Center, Overton, NV 89040
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a hike on the Rainbow Vista trail to admire an Insta-worthy panoramic view overlooking the park.
• Exploring Pink Canyon, known for being one of the most stunning places in the valley.
• Driving through the valley to discover the magnificent and natural landscapes.

12. Alta, Utah

Located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah in Salt Lake County, Alta is a fantastic ski area known for its wide array of slopes. I’m a huge fan of this snowy winter paradise! 

Alta averages 550 inches of snow each year, and its soft snow slopes offer incredible skiing opportunities for every level of skier.

I love the stunning snow-covered scenery and fresh powder snow terrain. It’s best visited during the peak winter months when there is plenty of snowfall, and the snow is soft and powdery! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10351 UT-210, Alta, UT 84092,
• Average temperatures – 0 to -10 degrees

My highlights…

• Visiting the magical and magnificent frozen sculptures of the Ice Castles 
• Hiring a fat bike and taking the winter trail around Park City.
• Enjoying a hot chocolate with a shot of gingerbread flavor at Hatch Family Chocolates. 

13. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

One of the most celebrated national parks in the country, Yellowstone is filled with picturesque natural beauty and exceptionally diverse wildlife.

Though summers are the most popular, I love visiting in the winter as it offers a unique experience and pristine views of white frosted trees.

Skis, snowshoes, snow coaches, and snowmobiles are the main modes of transportation as roads close, rivers and lakes freeze, and winter storms blanket the park with fluffy, white snow.

I love that outdoor activity options are endless. Yellowstone offers miles of trails that lead past frosty woods, steaming hot springs, and snow-covered meadows that can be explored on skis or snowshoes.

You’ll find idyllic scenery, much fewer crowds, and better chances of spotting iconic animals that tend to move to lower elevations in cooler temperatures.

At Mammoth Hot Springs, I recommend spotting bull elks and bison covered in snow, which is quite a sight! Views of the steam from the geyser contrast against the snow, and the blue skies are also mesmerizing.

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

My highlights…

• Going on a snowmobile-guided tour for an experience of a lifetime in the winter wonderland.
• Exploring the park by cross-country skiing on the perfectly groomed trails.
• Discovering the picturesque scenery on a snow coach tour, where I had several stops to take photos.

14. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park, in northeastern Arizona, is home to the beautiful world-renowned Rainbow Forest.

The Rainbow Forest is filled with colorful petrified wood and logs and offers stunning views. I personally think it’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in the country.

I suggest visiting the Rainbow Forest Museum, which displays exquisite palaeontology exhibits, Newspaper Rock’s petroglyphs, and the ruined village of Puerco Pueblo.

The park also contains the 1930s Painted Desert Inn, a museum with Hopi murals. There are various hiking and trekking trails on which you can find fossils, wildlife, and wildflowers.

This month at Petrified Forest National Park is very tranquil, with fewer crowds than in the summer. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028
• Average temperature – 13 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Checking out Rainbow Forest Museum at the visitor center and seeing dinosaur skeletons.
• Walking the park’s most stunning hikes, Blue Mesa, and discovering the coloured Badlands hills.
• Strolling along the short Crystal Forest loop and admiring the beautiful wood log deposits.

15. Kirkwood, California

Kirkwood Resort is a wonderful ski resort that receives one of the highest snowfalls in the world. It offers an extensive selection of terrain and several winter sports at affordable prices.

I personally think this month is the perfect time to enjoy Kirkwood and its snow-covered surroundings. Kirkwood combines the conveniences of a destination resort with the laid-back atmosphere of a day hill.

The quaint village is home to many eateries, bars, and other shops, which I’d recommend leisurely exploring.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Drive Kirkwood, CA 95646
• Average temperature – 5 to -7 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Watching the snowboarders do incredible tricks at the quarterpipe. 
• Going cross-country skiing surrounded by stunning views of the mountains.
• Taking in the picturesque scenery on a snowshoeing adventure across the 80 kilometers of land.

16. San Diego, California

I think San Diego is an excellent destination for this month because it offers a great escape from cold, dreary weather.

But San Diego offers more than pleasant temperatures and clear skies in the winter. It has stunning sandy beaches, ocean-side activities, and family-friendly parks.

To make the most of this incredible city, I highly recommend participating in swimming, surfing, kayaking, and bodyboarding activities so you can live like a local (a very fit one)! 

San Diego offers pleasant all-round weather with sunshine and soft ocean winds. Average winter temperatures range from the mid-60s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it ideal for more than seaside activities.

This month, you’ll also find much better deals on hotels and restaurants as it’s away from the peak season.

Other sights I would suggest visiting include the Immense Balboa Park, Japanese Botanical Gardens, Old Town San Diego, art galleries, museums, and gardens. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101,
• Average temperature – 19 degrees

My highlights…

• Experiencing a breathtaking sunset on a boat tour. 
• Relaxing with a Korean Massage at the Aqua Day Spa.
• Going for a hike along Torrey Pines State Park trails, the panoramic views were incredible! 

17. Magic Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont

Located in southern Vermont, New England, Magic Mountain is a ski resort on Glebe Mountain with a 1,500-foot vertical drop.

This true skiing treasure has steep, narrow trails, glade skiing, and affordable prices. I love that the no-frills experience keeps the focus on the activities and the prices low! 

Snowshoeing is another popular activity in this scenic region, and I would also recommend it if you take enough precautions. With uncrowded slopes and fresh snow tracks that often last days, this is the place to ski!

The region is also very scenic, with gorgeous views of the Green Mountains. And when it snows, Magic looks magical, I promise! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 495 Magic Mountain Access Londonderry, VT 05148
• Average temperature – -1 to -14 degrees

My highlights…

• Skiing the perfect pistes. 
• Enjoying food and drinks at the popular Black Line Tavern.

18. Providence Canyon, Georgia

Providence Canyon, a 1,000-acre Georgia state park, is often called the “Little Grand Canyon”. It is considered one of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders, and I love this surreal beauty spot!

The park is below sea level with 16 different canyons, exposing 43 different shades of soil ranging from light orange, salmon, and red to white, purple, and pink.

I personally think the magnificent colors make this one of the most beautiful hikes in Georgia. The trails along the canyon offer striking views and are also a great place to watch a glorious sunset.

I would also recommend exploring the nearby attractions, including Amicalola Falls and Tallulah Gorge.

• Visitors’ Center Address: 8930 Canyon Rd. Lumpkin GA 31815
• Average temperatures – 17 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Staying over at a campsite located along the Providence Canyon backcountry trail.
• Visiting the colorful rock formations known as Little Grand Canyon.
• Going hiking to explore the canyons and seeing incredible Insta-worthy views.

19. St Augustine, Florida

Filled with marvelous beaches, St. Augustine makes an amazing destination all year round. Winter is especially great because while the rest of the country deals with harsh cold temperatures and snow, St. Augustine is reveling in the sun! 

During this month, temperatures are pleasant, fluctuating between 40 and 70F. Crowds are less, and you can often find many off-peak season deals in the city’s best hotels.

I recommend visiting the St. Augustine Fountain of Youth, the Spanish masonry fort of Castillo San Marcos National Monument, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.

I would also suggest going on the spooky but interesting ghost tour, taking advantage of the golf courses, and exploring the wonderful San Sebastian Winery. 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 10 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees

My must-do highlights…

• Taking a wander down St George Street which was filled with an array of art galleries, shops, and 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

At the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Pickens County is a 3000-acre park called Table Rock State Park.

The park contains Pinnacle Mountain, the tallest mountain in the state, and is known for its remarkable natural beauty. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise! 

In my opinion, the towering mountain serves as a beautiful backdrop for the park and its facilities. The park contains cabins and a campground, and I love that there is an old-fashioned swimming hole on one of the park’s two lakes.

If the weather permits, I highly recommend camping, swimming, boating, paddling, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, and bird-watching in the park.

Table Rock is also an access point for the well-known Foothills Trail and Palmetto Trail. It is a classic getaway for anyone enjoying the cool winter air and natural outdoors. Enjoy! 

• Visitors’ Center Address: 158 E. Ellison Lane Pickens, SC 29671
• Average temperatures – 13 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Kayaking on the tranquil waters of Lake Pinnacle.
• Taking a hike to the top of Table Rock and Pinnacle Mountains and admiring lakes and waterfalls along the way.
• Go wading in the stream located near Carrick Creek Falls.