19 Amazing Places to Visit in January USA

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! 

I flew into Denver International Airport (DEN), drove for just over 1 hour 45 minutes, and savored seven incredible days in this beautiful spot. I timed my trip for late January to catch both the enchanting International Snow Sculpture Championships and the lively 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 multiple Roasted Toasted 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: −2 °C to −1 °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. 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 made sure to time my trip with the star-studded Palm Springs International Film Festival and the buzzing weekly VillageFest night market brimming with colorful crafts, local art, tasty bites, and lively music.

I drove just over two hours from Los Angeles and basked in a perfect week of relaxation and fun – hiking the switchback-filled Bump and Grind Trail via the clockwise loop, shopping along boutique-filled El Paseo (the boho Daisy Blue Boutique was my favorite!), and floating blissfully at the zen-like 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!

3. 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 northeast 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 also captured peaceful photos at the towering Court of the Patriarchs and the iconic Canyon Junction Bridge, I just had to prepare well with layered clothing and a pair of 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! 

4. Big Sky, Montana

This month turned Big Sky into a real-life snow globe — with powdery peaks, frosted pines, and quiet trails all coming together to create a quintessential winter wonderland. I discovered fresh layers of snow, cozy après-ski spots, unique outdoor adventures galore, breathtaking Madison Range views and quieter slopes (well compared to the more well-known nearby resorts anyway – although New year is a busy time).

I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drove just over an hour south, and basked in five snow-covered days at the rustic-chic Big Sky Resort Village Center for New Year. I skied at exhilarating Liberty Bowl, snowshoed at Lone Mountain Ranch, joined a Mimosa-filled New Year’s brunch at Montage Big Sky, and took a winter wildlife tour into Yellowstone — wrapping up each evening with après-ski Lone Peak Hot Toddy at Everett’s 8800 and cozy fireside lounging.

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. 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 blissfully free of spring-break crowds, and the city buzzed with events such as the 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!

6. 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 was 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 (SAV), drove 1.5 hours, stayed at the charming Rhett House, and timed my visit for the fun New Year’s Day Pelican Plunge at Hunting Island State Park. I spent the rest of my days beachcombing, climbing the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, and spotting wildlife along the family-friendly Marsh Boardwalk Trail. I have to mention though that I found the ocean far too chilly for swimming this month, though it was perfect for long beach walks!

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!

7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

I found that Heavenly Mountain Resort more than lived up to its name this month — deep powder, bluebird skies, sparkling lake views, and lively après-ski gave it just the right mix of wild days and lively nights. Post-holiday skiing was ideal with a solid snow base and fresh falls, and I even managed to catch the family-friendly Heavenly Holidays New Year’s Celebration with sparkling fireworks and live music galore!

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!

8. The Golden Isles, Georgia

The off-peak season proved to be an excellent time to explore the picturesque Golden Isles. Mild winter weather and clear blue skies made beach walks, dolphin and bird spotting, and wandering under ancient moss-draped oaks (although it wasn’t warm enough to swim) just dreamy. With no crowds and discounted stays, it felt wonderfully peaceful, and I even got to join in the charming Jekyll Island Treasures glass orb hunt.

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!

9. 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 — my favorite was the cool, industrial-chic Broken Horn Brewing!

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!

10. 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 (KOA) and spent ten dreamy 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!

11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah

This was a seriously Insta-worthy month to visit these two neighboring ski resorts – the snow at Alta and Snowbird was at its deepest and driest, so just right for skiing legendary runs framed by dramatic Wasatch peaks, with lighter post-holiday crowds and incredible alpine views. I was even lucky to catch the spectacular Torchlight Parade and New Year’s Day fireworks lighting up the slopes!

I flew into Salt Lake City International Airport, drove 45 minutes, and spent five wonderful days at the impressive 4-star Cliff Lodge and Spa. I skied at the thrilling High Rustler at Alta, rode the glass-walled Aerial Tram to the remote-feeling Hidden Peak and gazed at jaw-dropping views, and enjoyed a warm après-ski Sitzmark Cider at the lively Alta Lodge Sitzmark Club. 

Location: Wasatch Mountains, Northern Utah, Western USA |Vibe: High-altitude ski mecca | Avg day temp: -9°C to -1°C

My personal highlights…

• Soaking in the Cliff Spa’s glass-walled pool after a day on the slopes — the Great Salt Lake salt scrub (which used mineral-rich salts harvested straight from the lake) left my skin tingling as I watched the snowy Wasatch peaks glowing pink at sunset! 

12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

It was incredible to explore this surreal landscape of wave-like white gypsum dunes in winter — cooler temperatures made hiking and sledding comfortable at the famous White Sands National Park, and the low-angle light created stunning sunsets and photo ops. With few tourists and great hotel deals, it felt wonderfully peaceful. I even joined the Tularosa Basin Museum History Talks to hear local stories and see fascinating regional artifacts.

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!

13. 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 and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, watched a breathtaking sunrise at Zabriskie Point, drove the rainbow-hued Artist’s Palette route, and hiked the striking Golden Canyon.

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!

14. 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-tequilas. 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). I have to admit, some beach bars and attractions had scaled things down for the off-season, but the calmer pace suited me just fine.

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. 

15. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas

Since summers are scorching and spring brings crowds, I opted for a winter trip to this laid-back Gulf Coast getaway instead. Mild temperatures at both South Padre Island and Port Isabel made it ideal for long beach walks, dolphin cruises without the spring-break chaos, and soaking up the calm coastal vibe — and I also managed to score great off-season deals!

I flew into Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport, drove 45 minutes, and spent five peaceful days unwinding on beautiful South Padre Island Beach, spotting dolphins on a breezy Sea Ranch Marina cruise, exploring the bird-filled Laguna Madre Nature Trail and browsing the South Padre Island Market Days, a fun seasonal indoor marketplace filled with cute local crafts and coastal charm!

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!

16. 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 and snowshoed the rugged cross-country 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!

17. 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 gorgeous 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!

18. 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, the fun Dillinger Days with vintage cars and reenactments.

I flew into Tucson International Airport (TUS), spent five sunny days at the funky 4-star Eddy Hotel, explored the historic Presidio District and lively Fourth Avenue, hiked among towering cacti on the Valley View Overlook Trail  in Saguaro National Park, and admired the city’s adobe-walled Spanish Colonial and Mexican architecture. I just found that even in January, afternoons got warm under direct sun — so I made sure I brought 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.

19. 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 International Airport (FAI) 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 in the evening, 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 though, but 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!

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, so everything shared comes from my direct, first-hand experience.