Sometimes picking a destination for your trip is just as significant as picking a time to travel. Even though some destinations are beautiful year-round, the perfect timing can enhance a wonderful vacation. We are aware from personal experience how frustrating it is to arrive at a place you’ve been dreaming of visiting only to discover that the most important events of the year have already passed.
This year, we thought it would be exciting for you to cross off a new place to visit each month. However, don’t stress out trying to find out where to go since we’ve got you covered. Our top recommendations for each month’s top travel destinations in 2023 are listed below.
#1 January – Vail, Colorado
With more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, it’s no surprise that this wintry city is a well-liked vacation spot for snow enthusiasts. Vail is undoubtedly for anyone who enjoys the winter wonders so much that they crave the extra post-holiday frosty joy. Even if you are not one of those people, you might find the thought of visiting Vail in January appealing.
Why? There are still a ton of fun things to do outside besides skiing and snowboarding. You can take gondola rides across the mountains to get the best views, relax in a warm lodge, and visit a lot of excellent spas. Vail is, indeed, somewhat posh. However, only some towns in the US do a better job of bringing the wintertime to life than this small Colorado city.
#2 February – Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
One of the most distinctive locations in the nation is without a doubt Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, which is home to the greatest number of hoodoos (unique rock columns). In the wintertime, when their red boulders contrast with the fluffy white snow, these hoodoos at Bryce Amphitheater are stunningly gorgeous.
Bryce Canyon is an exciting place to hike, and going in February has the extra benefit of being much less crowded than going in the summer. To make the most of your vacation, think about taking one of the many fantastic sightseeing tours. Cross-country skis and snowshoes can also be rented to discover the canyon.
#3 March – Olympic National Park, Washington
Beautiful wildflowers can be seen blooming as early as March in Olympic National Park in Washington State. As they move north from March to May, you can also see gray whales up close. This is just in time for the area to reopen after the long, snowy winter.
The spring is a wonderful time to explore Olympic National Park. First of all, the wildlife is amazing. Roosevelt elk are going to give birth to their offspring in the Hoh and Quinault Rainforests, and it’s especially amazing to see wildlife in the river valley as they eat the early spring foliage.
Secondly, the Olympic Peninsula is also known by the locals as “the valley of 10,000 waterfalls.” You can follow a waterfall trail to the most famous waterfalls in Olympic National Park. Among Olympic’s top waterfalls, we can find Enchanted Valley, Sol Duc Falls, Falls Creek Falls, and Madison Creek Falls.
Additionally, now is the best time to go on vacation in this area because, during the summer high season, there are more visitors and everything becomes more crowded.
#4 April – Washington, DC
Washington, DC, while being such a historically significant city, is always changing; even today, new museums are opening. This spring, The National Cherry Blossom Festival, is another compelling reason to visit Washington.
This usually lasts from late March to early April. Despite the fact that Japan appears to receive the majority of global attention, the cherry trees in Washington, D.C., are spectacular, and you should see them at least once in your lifetime. The Tidal Basin is the best location to observe it when more than 3,000 trees are overtaken by brilliant flowers.
While you’re here, you can still take the traditional selfie with the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and National Mall.
#5 May – Holland, Michigan
With its annual Tulip Festival, this sweet Midwestern jewel that bears the name of Holland pays homage to its namesake by continuing the flowery heritage. Since 1929, when the community was predominately made up of Dutch immigrants, it has taken place in May every year.
A must-see if you go here on vacation is the 250-year-old Dutch windmill. You may make Holland your major destination or just a detour on your springtime road trip since it is only 30 minutes from Grand Rapids. In either case, we are sure that Holland, Michigan, will amaze you.
For more information regarding the festival, you should check out the official website.
#6 June – Boston, Massachusetts
In June, the 1912-built Fenway Park in Boston enters the middle of the baseball season. Due to the loud Red Sox supporters and nostalgic atmosphere, attending a game during this month is a unique experience.
You don’t like the thought of spending the afternoon watching baseball? No issue; Boston offers a ton of activities for your vacation, especially during the summer. Try visiting this historical city on the Freedom Trail; check out the Old North Church, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, the USS Constitution, and Bunker Hill. Given that it is the most walkable city in the nation, Boston’s hot, pleasant June weather is ideal.
This month, you can also go on a sightseeing cruise and take advantage of the whale-watching season. Alternatively, to get the most out of your stay, consider a day trip to some of the nearby historic places, such as Plymouth, Salem, and Lexington.
#7 July – San Juan Islands, Washington
The San Juan Archipelago is located midway between Seattle and Vancouver. These idyllic islands offer the ideal combination of sand beaches and majestic mountains in the background, and in the month of July, they are green and lush.
This is the spot for your vacation if you enjoy cycling. Lopez Island is largely flat, but it has lovely scenery, so novices can enjoy a bicycle ride there. On the other hand, Mount Constitution on Orcas Island is a challenge for more experienced cyclists.
Even while the islands see a boost in tourism during the summer, they are still a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, the area is well-known for its spectacular farmer’s markets this time of year and huge Fourth of July fireworks displays.
#8 August – Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park, one of Alaska’s most stunning locations, is regarded as the Inside Passage’s high point. The park, which derives its name from its magnificent glaciers, also contains millions of square miles of mountains, temperate rainforests, and a rocky coastline. Its isolation makes it the perfect vacation spot for adventurous travelers. The only ways to get there are actually by boat or by air.
The warmer weather in August draws a large number of tourists each year, although less than in June and July. If you want to skip the rain as much as possible, plan your trip at the start of August since the rainy season begins in September. While making travel plans, keep an eye on the weather, but also pack a few extras just in case.
#9 September – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Consider visiting in September if you’ve always wanted to visit Yellowstone but were put off by the overwhelming summer crowds. This is one of the best months to go because the trails are still available, but the summer rush has largely died down. Because it is the shoulder season, you can even benefit from lower accommodation prices.
Yellowstone hiking and backpacking are both fantastic in September! The backcountry is ideal for exploration because the insects are gone, the tourists have mostly left, and the temperatures are still fall-like. The backcountry is amazing in September because the fall foliage is stunning, the wildlife is numerous, and the tranquility is refreshing and serene. Permits are easier to obtain because there are fewer people around.
The trout are starting to bite again as the temperature cools, and the fishing season is still ongoing this month, so get your fishing license and equipment before venturing out to one of the numerous rivers or lakes.
#10 October – Savannah, Georgia
It’s not surprising that Savannah made the list because it’s perhaps one of the most spooky cities in the country. This is the ideal October vacation spot if you enjoy all things eerie. Take this trolley tour of the ghosts and graveyards to get a sense of the city’s spooky underworld of spirits and paranormal activity.
In addition to all the creepy activities taking place in Savannah at this time, you’ll also have lovely weather. In October, there is a break from the summer’s heat and humidity, with usually clear skies and cold nights.
#11 November – Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon
The coldest season of the Columbia River Gorge begins in November, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worthwhile to travel there at this time of year. The breathtaking landscape of this National Scenic Area is filled with waterfalls and vibrant fall hues. In addition to having some of the top waterfalls in America, the Cascade Mountains offer breathtaking views.
There are a lot of small-group tours that are a fantastic choice for a quick trip if you’re considering seeing the Columbia River Gorge while lodging in Portland. Discover the other car-free choices for traveling around the park: go on a hike to Multnomah Falls or mountain bike around the trails.
#12 December – Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is almost created for the holiday spirit in many ways. First of all, it’s nearly a given that you’ll enter this tiny Vermont town in December to find it covered in snow. There are also lots of warm cottages and cabins to stay in that are ideal for cozying up inside and drinking hot chocolate.
Stowe is a great destination to hit the slopes, whether you want to ski or snowboard. In this area, you can also enjoy sleigh riding, snowmobiling, or dogsledding. Is there anything more Christmassy than that?
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