Escape the winter blues with February travel adventures across the U.S.! Explore sunny destinations like Florida or California for warm weather and outdoor activities. Consider mountain resorts in Colorado or Utah for world-class skiing. Discover cultural gems in cities like New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Find the perfect vacation for your budget and interests with varied options.
Escape to Warmth: Sun-Kissed Destinations
For those seeking respite from the cold, these destinations offer sunshine, relaxation, and plenty of activities.
Destination |
Why Visit in February? |
Things to Do |
Considerations |
|---|
Scottsdale, Arizona |
Mild temperatures, sunny skies, and vibrant desert landscapes make Scottsdale an ideal escape. |
Explore the Desert Botanical Garden, hike Camelback Mountain, visit Taliesin West (Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home), enjoy the city's upscale shopping and dining. |
February is peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book accommodations and tours in advance. |
San Diego, California |
Pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere draw visitors to San Diego in February. |
Visit Balboa Park, explore the San Diego Zoo, stroll along Coronado Beach, tour the USS Midway Museum, enjoy the city's craft beer scene. |
While the weather is generally mild, evenings can be cool. Pack layers. |
Miami, Florida |
Miami offers a vibrant mix of culture, beaches, and nightlife, making it a popular destination year-round, but particularly appealing in February. |
Relax on South Beach, explore the Art Deco Historic District, visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene, experience the nightlife. |
Miami is a popular destination, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. |
New Orleans, Louisiana |
While Mardi Gras may occasionally fall in early March, February is still a great time to experience the city's unique culture and cuisine without the intense crowds. |
Explore the French Quarter, enjoy live jazz music on Frenchmen Street, sample Creole and Cajun cuisine, take a swamp tour, visit historic plantations. |
Check the Mardi Gras schedule to avoid potential conflicts or embrace the pre-Mardi Gras festivities. |
Winter Wonderlands: Embrace the Snow
If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, February is an excellent time to hit the slopes or enjoy other snowy adventures.
Destination |
Why Visit in February? |
Things to Do |
Considerations |
|---|
Vail, Colorado |
Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, with abundant snowfall and excellent slopes. |
Ski or snowboard on Vail Mountain, enjoy après-ski activities in Vail Village, try ice skating or snowshoeing, relax at a spa. |
Vail is a luxury destination, so expect high prices. Book lift tickets and accommodations well in advance. |
Park City, Utah |
Park City boasts multiple ski resorts, including Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort, offering diverse terrain for all skill levels. |
Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley Resort, explore Historic Main Street, enjoy après-ski activities, try snowmobiling or cross-country skiing. |
Park City can be crowded during peak season. Consider visiting mid-week for fewer crowds. |
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada |
Lake Tahoe offers stunning scenery and a variety of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating. |
Ski or snowboard at one of the many ski resorts around the lake, enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, ice skate at an outdoor rink, take a scenic drive around the lake. |
Road conditions can be challenging during winter. Be prepared for snow and ice. |
Stowe, Vermont |
Stowe offers a charming New England atmosphere and excellent skiing and snowboarding. |
Ski or snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort, enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, visit the Trapp Family Lodge, explore the charming town of Stowe. |
Stowe is a popular destination, so book accommodations and activities in advance. |
Unique Experiences: Something Different
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? These destinations offer unique experiences you won't find anywhere else.
Destination |
Why Visit in February? |
Things to Do |
Considerations |
|---|
Death Valley National Park, California |
February offers comfortable temperatures for exploring this unique desert landscape. |
Hike to Zabriskie Point, visit Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), explore Dante's View, stargaze at night. |
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Be aware of the potential for flash floods. |
Charleston, South Carolina |
February offers mild weather and fewer crowds than peak season, making it a great time to explore this historic city. |
Explore the Historic District, visit Fort Sumter, take a carriage tour, sample Lowcountry cuisine. |
Evenings can be cool, so pack layers. |
Kauai, Hawaii |
While any time is a good time to visit Hawaii, February offers whale watching opportunities and fewer crowds than the summer months. |
Hike the Kalalau Trail (with permits), visit Waimea Canyon (the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"), relax on Poipu Beach, take a whale watching tour. |
Hawaii is a relatively expensive destination. |
Planning Your February Getaway
No matter your preference, the U.S. offers a diverse range of destinations to suit every traveler in February. Remember to factor in travel time, budget, and personal interests when making your decision. Booking accommodations and activities in advance, especially for popular destinations, is always a good idea. And most importantly, pack appropriately for the weather conditions of your chosen location!
By carefully considering these factors, you can plan the perfect February vacation and create lasting memories.
