Walking in a winter wonderland…
Unfortunately, winter is underrated because almost everybody hates the cold. And while southern destinations are Americans’ most favorite during the winter, I am a bit more enthusiastic about a getaway in a cold and icy city. I know it’s nice to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve sipping from a coconut, but while the seaside has its perks, states like California, Montana, Wisconsin, and Alaska are amazing places to spend a weekend getaway during the winter months.
If you’re ready to try something different and be a tourist in your country, keep reading because we’ve bundled up all the destinations that are the best winter treasures! Let’s seize this cold season in style.
1. Big Sky, Montana
If you’ve ever been to Montana, you know how beautiful it is. And Big Sky is definitely a town that lives up to its name! Because it is mostly surrounded by mountains during the winter, the scenery is marvelous. This is one of the first winter destinations that popped into my mind because it’s not only a getaway but also a place where you can do a lot of winter sports if you’re into this kind of stuff. From the first snowflake until late April, this place is basically filled with tourists and locals.
Do you love skiing? Then Big Sky is going to be heaven on Earth for you! Big Sky Resort, with 38 lifts and 5,580 acres of skiable terrain, is a must-visit location for all serious skiers. However, it would be difficult to find a more perfect winter retreat in the United States, regardless of whether you come here to ski, snowboard, dog sled, or simply enjoy the surroundings and take some pictures of the scenery.
2. Lake Placid, New York
New York is definitely one of those places you must see in America, whether you’re a local or simply a tourist. In the upstate, you can find plenty of nice accommodations from which to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and the first that comes to mind is definitely Lake Placid. If you’re looking for a winter getaway in a place where you can have fun on your own or with your family, Lake Placid has to be your first choice.
In case you’re not into winter that much but you still want to get here at least once in your life, this area offers a ton of possibilities in every season. However, my recommendation from the bottom of my heart is to try checking into Mirror Lake Inn Resort Lake and Spa because you won’t regret it!
Besides being cozy, they also have tasty food and instagrammable accommodations. All this while you watch the snowflakes gently fall outside your window? True magic.
3. Lake Tahoe – California
Because I am definitely on a roll with lakes and mountains, my next recommendation is Lake Tahoe, located in the state of California. For those readers from this amazing state, we salute you! Your hometown is definitely marvelous in every season, but especially during the winter.
Tahoe is bordered by the magnificent, snow-covered heights of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is located on the border between California and Nevada. The second-deepest alpine lake in the nation, Lake Tahoe, is situated 6,225 feet above sea level. As a result, it’s never too late to visit Lake Tahoe, one of the best places to feel like you’re in a Nordic European country. Even the Eskimo are jealous of the locals who are fortunate to live here every day!
…psst! Don’t leave the page without a superb accommodation recommendation! Heavenly Ski Resort is one of my favorite places to go when I arrive in Lake Tahoe. While it isn’t the most affordable place to stay, you won’t regret the choice! After all, you don’t go on vacation every day.
4. Bend, Oregon
Oregon is one of those places that is famous for its outdoor recreation, which is more than heavenly during the wintertime. While you’re reading this, make sure you pack your bags with some heavy hiking boots because it’s going to be a ride! If you’re into hiking and you’re not afraid of exploring nature, you can go to Mt. Bachelor, a slumbering volcano that’s surrounded by 4,300 acres of skiable ground.
Hiking is not your thing? Don’t worry, because you will never be bored in Bend! Regardless of which option you select, Bend’s delightful accommodations offer a spa, a sauna, and places where you can read in front of a nice fireplace. I can assure you that you’ll feel amazing and welcome in this small town throughout the entire year.
5. Grand Rapids, Michigan
After the winter holidays are over, I always feel a tad sad, and I tend to keep my Christmas tree a bit longer in the house, just to see the twinkle lights. January marks the end of the holiday season, and whenever you’re not ready to come back to your regular schedule, pack your bags and head to Grand Rapids, Michigan. Besides being one of the best destinations for a vacation, it is also the home of one of the nicest festivals in the country, called World of Winter.
If ice skating, live music, and outdoor installations are among your favorites, you should definitely come here this winter! And if you weren’t a fan of winter before, I can guarantee you will become one after this experience.
If you’re a lover of winter and you’re sad when it’s over, you can bring it home every day by simply buying this amazing 2023 calendar from Amazon. I just ordered mine!
6. Iditarod Trail: Alaska
“Walking in the winter wonderland,” these lyrics perfectly capture the mood of Alaska. And I honestly can’t think of another sublime destination during the winter. If you’ve never seen the Northern Lights, you’re missing out, but it’s not something that can’t be fixed because this season you’re going to pack your bags and book a flight to Alaska.
Do you need any other reasons to convince you? What if I told you that this place is famous for sled dog races? The annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race honors Alaska’s rich history of dog sledding and is referred to as “The Last Great Race.” Despite the fact that it is usually held in March, this is one of Alaska’s largest events, with participants from all over the world.
7. Cascades National Park, Washington
Many people have forgotten how snow looks, especially in recent years as a result of climate change. But fortunately, this is not the case at Cascades National Park, located in Washington State. This place is basically surrounded by mountains, and every winter, an average of 650 inches of snow covers the ground.
As a result, Washington makes a fantastic winter vacation spot, especially for snowshoeing. With its guided trips across some of the most beautiful winter terrain in the United States, Crystal Mountain Resort is a must-visit destination for outdoor enjoyment in this winter wonderland.
I can assure you that this is one amazing experience you won’t forget so easily!
Do you think we haven’t stressed the word “winter” that much? No problem, because we have a few more recommendations for you to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. You might also be interested in: 7 Unique Igloo Hotels To Get Cozy In.
