January is actually one of the smartest months to travel in the USA for skiing, winter wildlife, festivals, and sun-soaked escapes, with fewer crowds and better value! From my first-hand travel during January, here are my favorite picks…
1. Breckenridge, Colorado
This historic mountain town was pure magic this month — peak ski season brought fresh powder, snow-dusted streets, and a festive, winter-wonderland vibe. Main Street sparkled with lights, cozy après-ski bars buzzed, and it felt like the ultimate snowy escape in the Rockies to kick off the new year!
In late January, I drove from 1 hour 45 minutes from Denver and caught both the International Snow Sculpture Competitions and the Big Beers, Belgians & Barleywine Festival. Between carving runs on lively Peak 8, warming up by the fire at the quirky Gold Pan Saloon, and indulging in Almond Lattes at Clint’s Bakery & Coffee House, it was a flawless slice of winter heaven!
Location: Summit County, Colorado, Northwest | Vibe: cozy mountain retreat | Avg day temp: −15°C to −3.5 °C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the 4-star Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge, I loved its Ski-In/Ski-Out access, sipping a smoky maple bourbon by the stone fireplace at The Boot Saloon, and watching The Grand Budapest Hotel in their private movie theater!
2. Fairbanks, Alaska
I timed my visit to this northern Alaskan city for January to experience a true Arctic winter — magical Northern Lights, snowy adventures, and serene wilderness beneath starry skies. With fewer tourists, I found awesome deals on flights, hotels, and tours!
I flew into Fairbanks and spent a week at the Insta-worthy Wilding Hotel Fairbanks, soaking up its stylish cabin aesthetic! I watched the Northern Lights dance over Creamer’s Field, went on a thrilling tour with Fairbanks Snow Sleighers, and took warming dips in the 41°C mineral-rich Chena Hot Springs. Daylight hours were very short, so I planned activities around the limited light.
Location: Interior Alaska, Far North USA |Vibe: Arctic adventure hub| Avg day temp: -23°C to -16°C
My highlights…
- The long, slow sunrises and sunsets that painted the sky in extraordinary shades of orange, pink, and blue — they were perfect for both photography and reflective moments!
3. Death Valley, California
Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, so I visited for a winter break when the weather was mild and perfect for exploring. Clear skies, colorful sunsets, and peaceful, crowd-free desert landscapes made it all very worthwhile and unforgettable.
I joined a quirky Furnace Creek Visitor Center ranger program with guided walks on the park’s unique geology and wildlife, then spent five days based at the very impressive 4-star Inn at Death Valley. I walked the salt flats at the otherworldly Badwater Basin, explored Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, drove the rainbow-hued Artist’s Palette route and watched a breathtaking sunrise at Zabriskie Point.
Location: Mojave Desert, Eastern California, Southwest USA |Vibe: Surreal desert landscape | Avg day temp: 7°C to 19°C
My favorite highlights…
- I was amazed to see tiny pupfish in Salt Creek’s shimmering pools – it felt very surreal to see life thriving in water saltier than the ocean, surrounded by the vast silence of the desert!
4. Big Sky, Montana
It felt like stepping straight into a snow globe — pristine powder, frozen pines, wide-open views of the Madison Range, snug après-ski bars, and peaceful, crowd-free runs that made Big Sky feel like a secret (apart from the New Year bubble).
I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drove an hour and basked in five days at the rustic-chic Big Sky Resort Village Center for New Year. I skied at Liberty Bowl, snowshoed at Lone Mountain Ranch, and joined a Mimosa-filled New Year’s brunch at Montage Big Sky — wrapping up each evening with après-ski Lone Peak Hot Toddy at Everett’s 8800.
Location: Southwest Montana, Western USA | Vibe: Powder-filled alpine hideaway | Avg day temp: −4 °C to −3 °C
My favorite highlights…
- Trying on a glitzy fringed suede jacket and a hot pink stetson at the funky Rhinestone Cowgirl boutique – it was fun to see rhinestone sparkle everywhere I looked!
5. Tucson, Arizona
Since summer in this arty Sonoran Desert city can hit 38–43°C, I decided on visiting Tucson this month when the sunny 21°C days were tailor-made for hiking, exploring, and soaking up the Southwestern vibe without the heat. I managed to catch both the Tucson Jazz Festival’s world-class performances and Dillinger Days with vintage cars galore.
I flew into Tucson, spent five sunny days at the funky 4-star Eddy Hotel, explored the historic Presidio District and lively Fourth Avenue, hiked past towering cacti in Saguaro National Park, and admired the city’s adobe-walled Spanish Colonial and Mexican architecture. Even in January, the afternoon sun was surprisingly warm, so I packed plenty of water for hikes!
Location: Sonoran Desert, Southern Arizona, Southwest USA |Vibe: Sunny desert city| Avg day temp: 7°C to 21°C
My personal highlights…
- Taking an underground tour of Kartchner Caverns State Park – I breathed in the damp, mineral-rich air while passing stalagmites, soda straws, and flowstone that looked like melting wax.
6. Moosehead Lake, Maine
On my January trip to New England’s largest lake, I found an almost unearthly peaceful winter wonderland of snow-covered forests and a huge frozen lake — perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and even spotting moose in a quiet, crowd-free setting.
I flew into Bangor International Airport, drove two hours north, and based myself here for a unique winter escape staying in the cozy log cabin Lily’s Pad. I skied the Ski Loop Trail at the remote-feeling Lily Bay State Park, relaxing by a real fire at the rustic Lodge at Moosehead Lake, then stargazed under beautifully clear skies – I even tried to spot the Northern Lights, although sadly I didn’t manage to see them on my trip!
Location: North-Central Maine, Northeast USA |Vibe: Peaceful frozen lake | Avg temp:-7°C to -2°C
My highlights…
- Waking up to home wild blueberry pancakes and a bold Backdraft coffee from Carrabassett Coffee Company while an unearthly stillness surrounded me!
7. Palm Desert, California
January was the ideal time to ditch gray skies for golden desert sunshine — warm days, clear blue skies, and no summer crowds made it ideal for outdoor adventures, and soaking up some much-needed vitamin D.
I drove just over two hours from Los Angeles and sank into a perfect week of sunshine and slow living — catching the star-studded International Film Festival, wandering the lively VillageFest night market with its colourful crafts, local art and street-food bites, browsing the boutiques along El Paseo (the boho Daisy Blue Boutique was my favourite!), and floating into total calm at the Desert Serenity Float & Spa.
Location: Southern California, Southwest USA | Vibe: stylish desert escape | Avg day temp: 19°C to 22°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the creative 4-star Hotel Paseo – it was awesome savoring a prickly pear margarita in a red striped chair outside my retro 1950s Airstream Suite while earthy, resinous desert aroma filled the air!
8. Payette National Forest, Idaho
This vast wilderness completely wowed me in winter — the snow-covered landscapes transformed Payette National Forest into an otherworldly wonderland for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, with the crisp mountain air and peaceful solitude making it feel like a true escape!
I flew into Boise Airport, drove three hours north, and spent a snow-blanketed week at the forest-edge Third Street Inn. I squeezed in snowshoeing the designated quiet trails of Ponderosa State Park, soaking in the mineral-rich main pool at Gold Fork Hot Springs and enjoying, art galleries and quirky craft breweries —the industrial-chic Broken Horn Brewing became a favorite!
Location: West-Central Idaho, Pacific Northwest USA| Vibe: Quiet wilderness escape | Avg day temp: −5 °C to 3°C
My highlights:
- Stopping by the interesting Central Idaho Historical Museum – the interiors were closed until spring but I could still see the eight historic buildings which dated from 1937 and were built with hand-peeled, varnished logs!
9. The Golden Isles, Georgia
Visiting in the off-season felt magical — pale winter sunshine, empty beaches, dolphins surfacing offshore, birds wheeling overhead, and centuries-old oaks dripping in silver moss (just not swimming weather). Add crowd-free exploring, discounted stays, and the whimsical Jekyll Island Treasures glass orb hunt, and it was pure slow-travel bliss.
I flew into Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) and kicked back for four days at the 4-star Jekyll Island Club Resort, wandering Jekyll’s tranquil beaches (Driftwood Beach above was my favorite!), biking beneath Spanish moss on St. Simons, and exploring Brunswick’s shrimp boats and quaint historic streets.
Location: Southeast Georgia Coast, Southern USA| Vibe: Historic coastal region | Avg day temp: 8°C to 16°C
My favorite highlights…
- Watching Steel Magnolias at the historic Ritz Theatre in Old Town Brunswick, I loved the art deco lights, velvet red seats, and the cool 1940s-style ticket booth!
10. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California
This month, Heavenly felt every bit deserving of its name: waist-deep powder, crisp blue skies, Lake Tahoe shimmering below, and après-ski buzzing long after sunset. Add in dreamy post-holiday skiing, fresh snowfall, and a front-row spot at the Heavenly Holidays New Year’s Celebration and live music celebrations, and it was unforgettable.
I flew into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), drove an hour, and spent an idyllic week at the cozy Elet Hotel. I spent my days skiing the panoramic Ridge and Skyline Trails, riding the very Instagrammable Heavenly Gondola to its lookout deck, tubing at Adventure Peak, and my nights soaking up live acoustic sets and wood-fired pizza in buzzing Heavenly Village.
Location: California-Nevada Border, Western USA| Vibe: atmospheric bluebird ski resort | Avg day temp: −6 °C to 0 °C
My personal highlights…
- Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski bash — live DJs, retro ski-wear clad go-go dancers, and frosty Slope Slider cocktails kept the vibe electric at 9,150 feet!
11. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
I headed to this remote 100-square-mile marine sanctuary in search of winter sun, and the dry season (November–March) was perfect — no rain fell during my stay at Dry Tortugas National Park, the humidity was low, and it was warm enough to swim and snorkel without the summer crowds. The calm seas also made the 2.5-hour ferry ride from Key West smooth and scenic.
After a luxe stay at the stylish Santa Maria Suites Resort, I went full contrast with two nights of remote camping – the ultimate switch-up! I snorkeled around the moat wall of Fort Jefferson, explored the massive brick walls and moat of historic Fort Jefferson, lounged on the white sands of the tropical Garden Key, and spotted brown noddies and pelicans.
Location: Remote Florida Keys, Southeast USA |Vibe: Tropical marine park | Avg day temp: 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Snorkeling at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins, I glided past coral-crusted pilings and brick arches as parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas darted through the eerie old fort remains!
12. Zion National Park, Utah
I discovered that during the middle of this month, Zion National Park turned into a serene, snow-dusted wonderland — cool temperatures made the park very atmospheric and the scenery even more special! It was great to have easier parking (although weekends still got fairly busy) and being able to skip the shuttle system, which made exploring feel much more adventurous.
I drove 2.5 hours from Las Vegas and relished five tranquil days at the impressive Red Cliffs Lodge Zion (although their heated pool was closed until March). I tackled the bucket-list worthy Watchman Trail in crisp winter air, and cruised along the jaw-dropping Zion Canyon Drive. I packed layers and Kahtoola microspikes as many trails were extremely icy.
Location: Southwest Utah, Western USA | Vibe: peaceful red rock canyon landscapes | Avg day temp: 8°C to 12°C
My favorite highlights…
- Driving out to the frost-touched Emerald Pools – the chilly winter air and low golden sun made the red cliffs glow!
13. Miami, Florida
This month actually turned out to be my favorite time to visit Miami — warm, sunny days were perfect for beach lounging and alfresco dining, without the heavy humidity or hurricane worries. South Beach was free of spring-break crowds, and the city buzzed with events including South Beach Jazz Festival, Art Deco Weekend, and the quirky King Mango Strut Parade in Coconut Grove.
I flew into Miami International Airport (MIA) and reveled in a week of palm-fringed perfection, basking in seven hours of sunshine a day — lazing on the golden sands of South Beach, wandering the pastel Art Deco Historic District, exploring mural-dotted Little Havana and Wynwood Walls, and dining alfresco at the relaxed Front Porch Café along Ocean Drive.
Location: Southeast Florida, Coastal USA | Vibe: cool beach city | Avg day temp: 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the funky 4-star boutique Pelican Hotel – mixing a smoky Mezcal Negroni in my zebra-print suite and sipping it as Ocean Drive’s neon lights flickered outside felt like the ultimate Miami moment!
14. Hunting Island, South Carolina
I took a winter break here and loved the peaceful beaches, mild weather, and quiet trails with migratory birds, dolphin sightings, and atmospheric coastal views. There were also cheaper stays and no summer crowds which made it feel like I had the island to myself!
I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, drove 1.5 hours, stayed at the charming Rhett House, and timed my visit for the fun New Year’s Day Pelican Plunge. I spent the rest of my days beachcombing, climbing the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, and spotting wildlife along the Marsh Boardwalk Trail. The ocean was far too chilly for swimming this month though.
Location: Lowcountry, Southeastern USA| Vibe: serene island retreat | Avg day temp: 14°C to 18°C
My favorite highlights…
- After climbing the 167 spiral steps of the black-and-white striped Hunting Island Lighthouse, I was greeted by salty sea air and panoramic views of driftwood beaches and untouched barrier islands stretching into the Atlantic!
15. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii
Since summer here (June to October) can be sweltering, I chose to visit Kailua Kona this month instead — and it was a great decision! Although there were brief rain showers, the days were still warm and sunny so it was still ideal for soaking up much-needed Vitamin D. It also fell within peak humpback whale season (November–April), although I sadly didn’t spot any!
I flew into Kona International Airport and spent ten paradise-like days snorkeling with manta rays at Keauhou Bay, lounging on Magic Sands Beach, gorging on decadent sugar-dusted malasadas from Paradise Bakery Hawaii, touring the interesting Greenwell Coffee Farm, and exploring the lava-rock-lined Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.
Location: West Coast, Big Island, Pacific USA |Vibe: Sunny tropical paradise | Avg day temp: 20°C to 27°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the unique 4-star boutique PACIFIC 19 Kona – I especially loved the in-room Macrobar stocked with canned Mai Tai, Raw Elements organic sunblock, and local treats such as the addictive taro chips and chocolate macadamia nuts!
16. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Seeing White Sands in winter felt otherworldly — endless ripples of white gypsum, cool air for exploring on foot and sled, and honey-soft sunsets washing the dunes in gold. Add in empty trails, hotel bargains, and an evening of local stories at the Tularosa Basin Museum History Talks, and it was slow-travel perfection.
I flew into El Paso International Airport, drove 1.5 hours, and spent a short break at the quirky Classic Desert Aire Hotel. I tackled the Dune Life Nature Trail, went sledding down the soft gypsum dunes, and joined a very photogenic hour-long ranger-led sunset walk. The nights were very cold though, so I was glad I’d packed warm clothes!
Location: Southern New Mexico, Southwest USA|Vibe: Dreamlike desert escape| Avg day temp: 4°C to 13°C
My favorite highlights…
- Catching a winter sunset — the golden light spilled across the rolling white dunes while the wind whispered over the sand, and the whole place glowed in peaceful silence!
17. San Diego, California
Last year I headed to this laid-back coastal city in the off-peak season, drawn by its year-round Mediterranean-like climate and sunny skies. The mild weather made it a fine setting for long beach walks, exploring without the hassle of the summer crowds, and even enjoying outdoor dining on the warmer days.
I drove three hours down the Pacific Coast Highway from LA and spent a sunny week at the trendy 4-star Pearl Hotel, where I mostly lazed by the palm-fringed pool with strawberry margaritas! Although I did get to join the lively Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, spot migrating gray whales off Mission Bay, and relax on the quiet sands of La Jolla Shores (though it was too cool to swim and also some attractions were closed).
Location: Southern California Coast, Southwest USA |Vibe: Laid-back coastal city | Avg day temp: 10°C to 19°C
My highlights…
- Visiting the Old Town and dining on homemade charred polbano pepper corn dough quesadillas at the traditional but quirky El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria.
18. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas
Winter felt tailor-made for this corner of the Gulf Coast — soft sunshine, quiet sands in South Padre Island and Port Isabel, dolphins gliding past the boats without the spring-break frenzy, and that wonderfully unhurried coastal rhythm, all sweetened by excellent off-season deals.
I flew into Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport, drove 45 minutes, and soaked up five calm days of beach walks, dolphin spotting on a Sea Ranch Marina cruise, birdwatching along the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, and browsing the adorable local crafts at South Padre Island Market Days.
Location: Southern Gulf Coast, Texas, South-Central USA |Vibe: Mild-weather beach retreat | Avg day temp: 11°C to 20°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the fun 4-star Margaritaville Beach Resort – it was awesome to sip on a creamy, dessert-like Banana Breeze cocktail at the Fins Up Beach Bar, as I dug my toes into the warm sand while a local guitarist played under the tiki lights!
Author’s Travel Note:
I’ve spent 12+ years traveling across the US in every season, staying in the most interesting hotels I can find and seeking out the kinds of soulful, memorable experiences that don’t always show up in guidebooks. All of the places and stays mentioned here were personally visited and self-funded.
Zion National Park is so high up on my bucket list, it looks so beautiful! Hopefully one day I will get there 🙂 Great post, thanks for sharing Becky!