19 Amazing USA Places to Visit in January (tested by a traveler!)

1. Breckenridge, Colorado

On my trip to this historic mountain town in January it was peak ski season with deep powder covering the slopes (this month and February is when the average snowfall is at its highest).

I was in awe of how the town transformed into an Instagram-worthy snowy paradise with festive winter vibes all around town, magical snow-dusted scenery, and cozy après-ski spots lining Main Street, to me it was the perfect snowy mountain escape in the heart of the Rockies! 

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the 4-star Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge – I loved the amazing Ski-In/Ski-Out location and the cozy stone fireplace in The Boot Saloon! 
• Enjoying a Roasted Toasted Almond Latte, and a heavenly Dulce De Leche Cake at the cozy Clint’s Bakery & Coffee House. 

2. Palm Desert, California

I loved taking a trip to this stylish desert city during this month as I got to experience warm desert sun and lots of vitamin D when most of the Northern Hemisphere was hunkered down for winter. 

I found that the temperatures were much more comfortable for hiking the scenic desert trails, discovering all the outdoor activities and teeing off on lush golf courses surrounded by mountain views without the scorching summer heat or peak-season crowds.

I was also pleasantly surprised by the number of valley-wide events on during this month, from the star-studded Palm Springs International Film Festival and weekly bustling VillageFest to the creative Indio’s Southwest Arts Festival.

I drove two hours from Los Angeles and took a sunny week long break. I hiked the challenging Bump and Grind Trail, browsed luxury boutiques (the denim-focused Daisy Blue Boutique became a favorite!) and galleries along El Paseo, and went for a relaxing floating session at the Desert Serenity Float & Spa (then added on their soothing 24K gold energising eye mask afterwards)!

Location: Southern California’s Coachella Valley | Vibe: sun-soaked desert chic | Average January low/high: 42°F to 71°F

My highlights…

• Staying at the cool and creative 4-star Hotel Paseo – I loved the trendy poolside cabana bar and staying in their awesome 1950 Airstream Trailer Suite which came with a blue striped awning and cute red deckchairs!

3. Zion National Park, Utah

This stunning national park experiences milder winters than most, so I decided to take a winter trip – and in January, the cooler temperatures made hiking the trails far more comfortable and enjoyable than in the scorching summer heat.

I loved how the red rock cliffs looked especially striking with a dusting of snow, and with far fewer crowds, I was able to fully soak in the park’s awe-inspiring natural beauty in complete peace and quiet.

I found that there were many walking trails accessible in the winter months (but there was no shuttle system in operation during January).

I drove 2.5 hours northeast from Las Vegas and explored for a wonderful five days. I hiked the Watchman Trail in cool, crisp air and tackled Angels Landing with the required permit, taking extra care on the icy winter sections. I also drove along scenic Zion Canyon Drive and stopped to photograph the towering cliffs at Court of the Patriarchs.

Location: Southwestern Utah | Vibe: dramatic red-rock wilderness | Average January low/high: 25°F to 55°F

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking to Observation Point via the quiet East Mesa Trail, I reached the overlook just as the golden winter sun lit up Zion Canyon’s snow-dusted cliffs – there wasn’t a soul in sight, and the silence made it feel like a hidden, untouched world.

4. Big Sky, Montana

I absolutely adored the deep powder and breathtaking views of the Madison Range, the world-class skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort, peaceful Nordic trails and having fewer crowds than other major ski destinations. 

The winter evenings (which ranged from December to February) were just right for cozying up in log cabins by roaring fires and taking part in the awesome local events – there was the New Year’s Day Brunch at Montage Big Sky which was filled with seasonal dishes and a Mimosa cart, and the fun Winter Karaoke nights which took place every Friday at Waypoint. 

I flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), drove one hour south and my winter stay lasted five days. That was enough to go skiing and explore the peaceful snowshoe and Nordic trails at Lone Mountain Ranch.

I also took a scenic winter wildlife tour into Yellowstone National Park, and tried out the cozy après-ski spots – the rustic-chic Everett’s 8800 turned out to be my favorite!

Location: Southwestern Montana’s Madison Range | Vibe: snowy mountain escape | Average January low/high 9°F to 30°F 

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring all the unique boutiques in the town center – I especially loved the cute Concho Bolo Ties in the Rhinestone Cowgirl store. 

5. Miami, Florida

Miami is a popular year-round destination, but I personally loved taking a winter vacation here during this month. I found warm, sunny weather just right for beach lounging, swimming and al fresco dining – without the intense summer heat or the worries of hurricane season. I also loved that there were no spring-breakers!

It didn’t mean it was a boring time of year though – I found that great events were on and these included the lively South Beach Jazz Festival, the iconic Art Deco Weekend which celebrated Miami’s architectural heritage, the satirical King Mango Strut Parade in Coconut Grove, and the dazzling Luminosa lantern display at Jungle Island!

I flew into Miami International Airport (MIA) and I spent a blissful week-long vacation here soaking up the warm subtropical climate, enjoying around seven hours of sunshine a day, and unwinding on the golden sands of sun-drenched South Beach.

I also explored the pastel-hued Art Deco Historic District, wandered through the cool and eclectic neighborhoods of Little Havana and Wynwood Walls, and soaked up the open-air dining vibes along lively Ocean Drive!

Location: Southeastern Florida | Vibe: fun coastal energy | Average January low/high: 61°F to 76°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the funky 4-star boutique Pelican Hotel – I stayed in the Executive Zebra Suite which was adorned with retro-chic zebra prints, vintage-style lighting, and a fun zebra-striped minibar which even included a stylish cocktail kit! 

6. Hunting Island, South Carolina

I took a short break here during the winter and I experienced peaceful beaches, mild winter temperatures, and quiet forested trails so it was a wonderful serene escape, with hovering migratory birds, dolphin spotting and atmospheric coastal views.

I also loved that the accommodation prices were cheaper and there were no summer crowds so it felt like I almost had the island to myself – going this out of season really was a great choice!

There was also the awesome events which I found included the spirited Pelican Plunge at Hunting Island State Park on New Year’s Day, the festive Oyster Boogie 5K through historic downtown Beaufort, and the Tides to Table Restaurant Week which showcased the best of Lowcountry cuisine across the Beaufort area.

I flew into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), then drove 1.5 hours northeast and stayed for a peaceful long weekend. I walked the quiet, driftwood-strewn beach, climbed the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse which had beautiful ocean views, and spotted wildlife along the Marsh Boardwalk Trail. 

Location: South Carolina’s Lowcountry coast | Vibe: wild beaches and coastal forest | Average January low/high: 39°F to 61°F

My favorite highlights…

• Climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the historic black-and-white striped Hunting Island Lighthouse – I saw incredible views of the untouched coastline and barrier islands which stretched out into the Atlantic! 

7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

I found out that this premier ski destination was an awesome place to visit during this month – there was deep powder snow, sunny bluebird days, and incredible lake views, a lively après-ski scene and access to both superb outdoor adventure and vibrant nightlife on the California-Nevada border.

The skiing conditions were just right as it was post-Christmas holidays and the slopes had plenty of time to develop a thick base of snow, which got regularly topped with fresh layers as the month went on! I also got to join in the incredible Heavenly Holidays New Year’s Celebration which had impressive fireworks and live music.

I flew into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), then drove an hour and stayed for a dreamy week. I went skiing while gazing at stunning views of Lake Tahoe on the Ridge and Skyline Trail, rode the Heavenly Gondola to the scenic observation deck, went tubing at Adventure Peak, and unwound with live music, drinks, and dining in Heavenly Village.

Location: South Lake Tahoe, on the California–Nevada border | Vibe: lively slopes with lake views | Average January low/high: 20°F to 39°F

My personal highlights…

• Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski Party with live DJs, go-go dancers dressed in ski gear, and superb Slope Slider cocktails, all at an exhilarating 9,150 feet above sea level!

8. Brunswick and The Golden Isles, Georgia

I discovered that the off-peak season was an excellent time to visit this historic port city and group of scenic barrier islands. I experienced mild winter temperatures and lower humidity which made it an excellent time for exploring, spotting dolphins and migratory birds along the marshes, enjoying peaceful beach walks and taking in the beauty of ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss under clear blue skies!

I loved that there were no crowds of tourists and I found some discounts on accommodation too and I even got to experience the fun Golden Isles Penguin Plunge where I watched brave locals dive into the Atlantic on New Year’s Day and the peaceful Jekyll Island Treasures event where I saw families hunt for hidden glass orbs along the beach! 

I flew into Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) and spent a relaxing four days. I strolled quiet beaches of Jekyll Island, biked the scenic trails of St. Simons Island, and explored the historic streets and shrimp boats of Brunswick. 

Location: Southeastern Georgia’s Atlantic coast | Vibe: historic port town and laid-back barrier islands | Average January low/high: 44°F to 61°F

My favorite highlights…

• Catching a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in Old Town Brunswick, I loved art deco light fixtures, and plush red velvet seats and the charming ticket booth which looked like it was straight out of the 1940s!

9. Payette National Forest, Idaho

This vast wilderness really wowed me in January! I saw that the snow-covered landscapes had transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland which was ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling through the pristine wilderness, while the crisp mountain air and peaceful solitude felt like a true escape into nature! 

I was lucky to catch the nearby late January McCall Winter Carnival which had giant snow sculptures and fireworks and the family-friendly Snowshoe Stomp in Ponderosa State Park which took place this month too.

I flew into Boise Airport, drove 3 hours north and stayed for a wonderful long weekend. I wandered the quiet trails of Ponderosa State Park, went snowmobiling along Warren Wagon Road, soaked in the nearby Gold Fork Hot Springs surrounded by snow-covered pines and checked out the spa resorts, art galleries, museums, shopping, craft breweries and indoor ice skating too! 

Location: West-central Idaho | Vibe: snow-covered wilderness and mountain solitude | Average January low/high: 14°F to 31°F

My highlights…

• Learning about the county’s fascinating history and native tribes at the Payette County Museum – the carefully preserved vintage clothing, old-fashioned school desks and handwritten report cards were very interesting!

10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

The summer months (June to October) can get extremely hot in this beautiful seaside town, so I decided to take a trip during this month instead. It turned out to be a fine choice – warm, dry, and actually one of the sunniest spots in the entire country in January, so I soaked up some much-needed sun and Vitamin D!

It was also exciting to me that this month fell within Hawaii’s peak humpback whale season (which spans from November to April), with some of the best chances for sightings. Also, I just manage to catch the Kona Surf Film Festival which showcased awesome ocean-inspired films and music. 

I flew directly into Kona International Airport (KOA) and spent a week’s sunny vacation here. I was lucky enough experience snorkeling with manta rays at Keauhou Bay and spend time relaxing on my favorite beach, Magic Sands.

I also squeezed in sipping on fresh brews on a Kona coffee farm tour, exploring Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, and going on a whale-watching boat tour.

Location: West coast of Hawaiʻi Island | Vibe: sunny, laid-back seaside town | Average January low/high: 69°F to 81°F 

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star boutique PACIFIC 19 Kona – I loved the unique styling, the award-winning baristas and my in-Room Macrobar where I could buy everything from canned cocktails to organic sunblock!
• Relaxing on the jet-black volcanic sands with warm malasadas and tropical juice bought from the charming roadside at Punaluʻu Bake Shop.

11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah

These two neighboring ski resorts were a delight to visit during this month! I discovered that the snowfall was as at its deepest and driest, so it was ideal conditions for skiing at Alta and skiing or snowboarding at Snowbird. There were legendary runs surrounded by dramatic Wasatch peaks, fewer crowds than holiday weeks and stunning alpine views in every direction.

This trip was special because I was lucky enough to experience the Torchlight Parade and fireworks shows that lit up the snowy slopes on New Year’s Day and I also found out that the Freeride World Tour qualifier event which drew elite skiers to Snowbird, and the lively Avalanche Dog Fundraiser which featured rescue dog demos and family fun took place this month too.

I flew into Salt Lake City International Airport, drove 45 minutes and spent a beautiful four days here. That was enough time to ski, take in the gorgeous panoramic views from the Aerial Tram to Hidden Peak, and sample the après-ski at The Cliff Lodge!

Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah | Vibe: deep-powder alpine adventure | Average January low/high: 15°F to 31°F

My personal highlights…

• Indulging in a Lunar Sound Bath and a Great Salt Lake Body Polish at the upscale Cliff Spa – I loved that it used minerals harvested from the Great Salt Lake. 

12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

I absolutely loved exploring this surreal landscape of wave-like gypsum sand dunes in the winter. The cooler temperatures make it much more comfortable to hike and sled on the brilliant white gypsum dunes without the intense desert heat, and the low-angle winter light creates especially dramatic sunsets and photo opportunities.

There were also hardly any other tourists around, I found some great deals on nearby accommodation and I got to join in the Tularosa Basin Museum’s History Talks where I heard regional stories and saw local artifacts. 

I flew into El Paso International Airport, drove 1.5 hours and stayed for a long weekend. That was enough to hike the Dune Life Nature Trail, sled down the soft white gypsum dunes, and join a ranger-led sunset stroll.

Location: Southern New Mexico’s Tularosa Basin | Vibe: surreal white dunes and wide-open skies | Average January low/high: 22°F to 57°F

My favorite highlights…

• Sledding down the brilliant-white gypsum dunes — I loved the soft hiss of sand beneath the sled and the rippled ridges glowing pale pink in the low winter sun!

13. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, with dangerously high summer temperatures, so I chose to visit in January when the weather was much milder and safer for exploring.

I found that the mild winter temperatures were just right for exploring the surreally beautiful landscapes and I experienced clear skies, Insta-worthy sunsets, and peaceful, uncrowded desert landscapes. I also got to join in a quirky Furnace Creek Visitor Center Ranger Program (which ran from December to March) and featured interesting guided walks and talks on the park’s unique geology and wildlife.

I drove four hours from Los Angeles and explored for an extraordinary five days. I went for an Insta-worthy walk across the salt flats at Badwater Basin and also the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, watched a truly incredible sunrise from Zabriskie Point, drove the colorful Artist’s Palette route, and hiked the picturesque Golden Canyon.

Location: Eastern California’s Mojave Desert | Vibe: otherworldly desert landscapes | Average January low/high: 40°F to 67°F

My favorite highlights…

• Spotting tiny, endangered pupfish darting around the pools of Salt Creek, it was incredible to see them thriving in water saltier than the ocean surrounded by stark desert landscapes!

14. San Diego, California

I decided to head to this laid back coastal city in the off-peak season during January because it’s home to a year-round Mediterranean-like climate with plenty of sunshine! When here, I found the mild, sunny weather which was just right for walking along the beaches, exploring without summer crowds, and enjoying outdoor dining. 

I also timed it perfectly to join some lively events – there was the fun Big Salsa & Bachata Festival and the lively Martin Luther King Jr. Parade. This month was also an excellent time for whale watching as this is when the gray whales migrated from the Arctic to the warm lagoons of Baja California.

I took the three hour drive down the Pacific Coast Highway from LA and stayed for a sunny long weekend. It wasn’t warm enough to swim just yet but I relaxed on the uncrowded sands of La Jolla Shores, explored the gardens and museums of Balboa Park, went whale spotting at Cabrillo National Monument, and enjoyed outdoor dining in the Gaslamp Quarter under clear winter skies! 

Location: Southern California’s Pacific coast | Vibe: laid-back beach city | Average January low/high: 50°F to 66°F 

My highlights…

• Staying at the 4-star Pearl Hotel – I loved the trendy, unique design, the oyster-shaped saltwater pool, the poolside weekly “Dive-In” movie nights and the artwork inspired by Japanese female pearl divers!  
• Visiting the Old Town and dining on delicious homemade poblano pepper corn dough quesadillas at the traditional but quirky El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria. 

15. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas

Summers are very hot in this laid-back Gulf Coast getaway, and spring attracts large crowds, so I took a winter trip here instead! Luckily, the temperatures were mild and were just right for long beach walks, spotting wintering birds along the wetlands, enjoying dolphin-spotting cruises without the spring break crowds, and soaking up the relaxing, sun-soaked coastal vibe.

I also found some awesome off-season accommodation deals and some cool events on too such as the South Padre Island Market Days which showcased local crafts and coastal treats and also the free Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market.

I flew into Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport, drove 45 minutes and based myself here for five peaceful days mostly relaxing South Padre Island Beach (it wasn’t quite warm enough to swim).

I also spotted super-cute dolphins and seabirds on a cruise from Sea Ranch Marina, climbed the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse (the views from the top were incredible!), and explored the nature trails at the Laguna Madre Nature Trail. 

Location: Texas’s southern Gulf coast | Vibe: laid-back beach and fishing towns | Average January low/high: 55°F to 71°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the fun 4-star Margaritaville Beach Resort – sipping on the dessert-like Banana Breeze cocktail at the funky Fins Up Beach Bar was a highlight!

16. Moosehead Lake, Maine

On my January trip to the largest lake in New England, I found a peaceful winter wonderland of snow-covered forests and a frozen lake—a great time for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and spotting moose in a serene, crowd-free setting. I also loved going to the cozy Fireside Winter Storytelling Series which was hosted at a local lodge. 

I flew into Bangor International Airport, drove 2 hours north and based myself here for a very unique short-winter break.

During the day I went snowmobiling across the frozen expanse of Moosehead Lake, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the trails at Lily Bay State Park, and when night fell I warmed up by the fire, stargazed in dark skies clear from light pollution and tried to spot the Northern Lights!

Location: Moosehead Lake region, Maine highlands | Vibe: rugged wilderness and lakeside mountain retreat | Average January low/high: 8°F to 21°F 

My highlights…

• Cozying by a real log fire in a rustic log cabin then waking up to blueberry-smothered pancakes cooked over a campfire by the lake’s edge – bliss! 

17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

I headed to this remote, 100-square-mile marine sanctuary when I was in need of some winter sun and its dry winter season spanned from November to March. I found out for myself that it was very dry – no rain fell while I was there and it wasn’t as hot and humid as the summer months either!

There were calm seas and clear skies, making the ferry ride smooth, and it was warm enough to swim and snorkel – so it was a good choice for enjoying this tropical paradise without the intense summer heat or heavy crowds.

I took the 2.5 hour ferry journey from Key West (I lucked out with calm seas!) then camped at the primitive campground for an extraordinary three nights. When here, I snorkeled coral reefs which were teeming with tropical fish, explored the massive brick walls and moat of Fort Jefferson, relaxed on the paradise-like white sands of Garden Key and spotted brown noddies and brown pelicans! 

Location: Florida Keys, about 70 miles west of Key West | Vibe: remote tropical islands and historic fort | Average January low/high: 65°F to 74°F

My favorite highlights…

• Snorkeling at the famous Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins, I glided past coral-covered pilings and crumbling brick arches as parrotfish, angelfish, and barracudas darted through the eerie underwater remains of the old fort! 

18. Tucson, Arizona

Summer in this sunny Sonoran Desert city brings intense heat (often around 100–110°F) so I chose to visit in January instead, when the weather was far more comfortable for exploring. I enjoyed sunny skies and 70°F temperatures which were great for hiking, exploring, and soaking up the unique Southwestern culture without the searing summer heat.

One of the highlights for me was attending the toe-tapping Tucson Jazz Festival which featured world-class performances across downtown venues, and the fun Dillinger Days which showcased vintage cars and Prohibition-era reenactments, and the kickoff of the international Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase when a dazzling influx of global vendors filled the city with rare treasures!

I flew into Tucson International Airport (TUS) and spent four days enjoying the warm sunny days while strolling through the historic Presidio District and vibrant Fourth Avenue, hiking though towering cacti at Saguaro National Park and exploring the interesting old town which was filled with striking Spanish Colonial and Mexican buildings.

Location: Sonoran Desert, Southern Arizona | Vibe: sunny desert oasis and mountain-rimmed city | Average January low/high: 43°F to 67°F

My personal highlights…

• Taking an underground tour at Kartchner Caverns State Park, I wandered through tunnels filled with towering stalagmites, delicate soda straws, and flowstone formations that looked like melting wax sculptures! 

19. Fairbanks, Alaska

I timed my visit to this Northern Alaskan city for this month because I got to experience true Arctic winter adventure with magical views of the Northern Lights, snowy outdoor adventures, and the extreme yet beautiful stillness of the Alaskan wilderness under a star-dotted sky! 

I found it was officially off-season, so I managed to score great deals on flights, accommodation, and tours thanks to the fewer tourists – and I especially loved the long, slow sunrises and sunsets, which lasted over an hour and bathed the sky in stunning shades of orange, pink, and blue, creating wonderful moments for photography and peaceful reflection! 

I flew into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), stayed for an incredible week and even saw the Northern Lights at Creamer’s Field. I also spent my time snowmobiling through picturesque snowy trails, soaking in the geothermal Chena Hot Springs (which were 106°F) and saw impressive ice sculptures at the Ice Art Park. 

Location: Interior Alaska, near the Yukon River basin | Vibe: rugged subarctic frontier and northern lights hub | Average January low/high: -16°F to -2°F

My highlights…

• Discovering the creative sculptures at the wonderful Fairbanks Ice Museum – I watched sculptors transform blocks of ice into everything from ice dragons and delicate swans to full-sized thrones!