February is the cheapest and best month to discover a bargain on travel in the United States. While warmer and Caribbean destinations may still cost a pretty penny, there are plenty of locations to satiate any wanderlust spirit and quench the appetites of both warm-loving and cold-craving travelers.
So, if you’ve decided that February is the perfect month to plan a short getaway or full blown vacation, you have plenty of options depending on your budget and the type of trip you’d like to take. Let’s take a look at some top locations in the United States to visit this February!
Asheville, North Carolina
In Ashville, there’s always something to do. Whether it’s a hike on one of the snow-dusted Blue Ridge Mountain trails, rejuvenating in a local spa, or experiencing the local live music scene, this city caters to every whim, in true southern style. The grandeur of the Biltmore Estate is always on display. Breweries abound. Stroll through an art museum.
Be stunned by a stage production or delve into some serious southern and fusion cuisine. And the temperatures don’t stop big festival fun from rolling into the mountains. February is host to various outings like Taste of Ashville, Blue Grass, Mardi Gras, and Celtic Fest, just to add some extra allure to this mountain hotspot.
Palm Springs, California
Beat the travel rush when you visit Palm Springs in February. Hiking is in high demand in the Coachella Valley, with a plethora of trails for all abilities. As the snow melts, you may even see one of the gorgeous waterfalls along the path. The area is also home to Joshua Tree State Park offering some of the best stargazing in the U.S.A. Grab your tent for a night in the park or join a guided group tour with Sky Watchers.
Tennis and golf are always on the itinerary with desert temperatures in their sweet spot. The milder degrees make cycling and walking tours a breeze. Guide yourself to some of Frank Sinatra’s favorite savory spots or learn about the local area as you experience traveling in a covered wagon.
Snag a deal on the iconic mid-century modern house or opt for a hotel to lounge around, though it may be too cool for a dip. In town, discover dining and discos, distilleries, and dancing. And don’t miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway highlighting the stunning landscape from the air.
Tampa Bay, Florida
In Tampa, there’s always time for fun. Baseball fans can peek at their favorite team or scrutinize competitors. Each spring, various MLB teams—like the Orioles, Yankees, Astros, and Nationals—travel to the area to prepare for the upcoming season. Besides baseball, it’s the perfect time for an intimate look at the grand sea cow.
Manatees make their way upstream for the winter and Tampa offers various locations to see these gentle creatures in the wild. Kayaking or canoeing is an exceptional way to get close while enjoying the cooler, refreshing air.
Tampa is also a hotspot of tried-and-true Florida family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens Theme Park, the Florida Aquarium, Tampa Museum of Art, Florida Air Museum, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Plus, February brings some squash buckling fun with the Gasparilla Music Festival, the Sant’ Yago Knight Parade, and other events like the Strawberry Festival for a sweet treat.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
While snow activities are a main attraction, there are countless adventures on deck in Steamboat Springs every winter. Turn your rest day into an adventure with a horseback ride through the snowy terrain.
Then, opt for a scenic ride in the gondola before ice skating at the town rink. Steamboat hosts loads of free concerts and has some incredible events, making for extra fun during a February trip such as the Light Up the Night Celebration, an illumination of hot air balloons complete with the Fireworks and Torchlight Parade.
The biggest festival is the Steamboat Winter Carnival with 2024 becoming the 111th year this elaborate celebration has occurred. The entire town transforms into a snowy playground, full of ski jumping, races, ski joring, parades, and much more. After all the rigorous revelry, recover in the hot springs by visiting nearby Old Town Hot Springs or Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs.
Santa Barbara, California
While the grapes may be sleeping this time of year, Santa Barabra remains a West Coast gem to visit year-round. And with the crisp sea air, February is a perfect time to visit. Flaunting its small city vibe, Santa Barbara is a mecca of attractions.
The American Riveria as it’s known, is home to idyllic beaches, elaborate trails, pristine hotels, and an abundance of activities all with mesmerizing views. State Street is a hub of buzzing restaurants, from fine (casual) fare to quick tasty bites. Opt for a bike tour or a wine walking tour along the streets, then unwind at one of the many luxurious spas. Dip your toes in the Pacific or find a show at one of the local entities like Granada Theatre or UCSB Arts.
Wine enthusiasts will find the Santa Ynez Valley a quick drive away, with dynamic wine productions. In February, film connoisseur’s unit at the Santa Barbara International Flim Festival, which offers 11 days of movie makers on location.
At the end of February, the annual World of Pinot Noir Wine event takes centerstage, featuring wineries and winemakers from all over the globe specializing in this delicate grape. The itineraries are endless in this coastal haven.
Telluride, Colorado
Colorado is synonymous with snow and Telluride’s quiet, relaxed neighborhood charm is unrivaled by its mountain counterparts. Snuggled in the Rockies, Telluride is a snow-asis, providing every winter activity imaginable.
This ski town is a hub of arts, culture, snow, and community…which is why it’s become a favorite destination. From ice skating to dog sledding to fat tire biking, winter weather enthusiasts can tackle the mountains any way they please.
Warm up in the nearby hot springs or grab some flavorsome favorites after a day in the snow. Plus, the town hosts an annual comedy festival, bringing the best jokesters to town, and making February a more delightful time to visit.
San Antonio, Texas
History, food, and boundless activities make San Antonio a must-visit destination in the winter. Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk or choose to warm up with a hot cocoa cruise. Visit the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a dose of history, or keep it low-key while you sample a local brew at one of the city’s breweries.
Adventure parks like Seaworld (which is also celebrating Mardi Gras each weekend in February) and Six Flags provide thrills the whole family can enjoy. Musicians and bands perform at the Aztec Theatre, and comedians and entertainment take the stage at the Majestic Theatre. Mardi Gras celebrations are in full display along the riverwalk all month long with the main parade marching through on February 10th.
Spas and resorts allow for the ultimate escapes and premium indulgences, while establishments like the DoSeum Kids Museum provide educational fun for everyone. Plus, San Antonio is a hub of art museums and cultural entities that highlight history and lifestyle from indigenous perspectives. Whether you’re looking for bike tours, ghost tours, or wine excursions, San Antonio has an outing for every taste.
Jackson, Wyoming
Jackson Hole has become synonymous with winter amusements and for good reason. With some of the West’s best powder, skiers and boarders flock to these slopes nestled in the Grand Teton Mountains.
There isn’t a more spellbinding site than these grand peaks in all their snowy splendor, which can be viewed from the aerial tram, hovering over 4,000 feet from the ground. The National Elk Refuge is nearby, where hundreds of these noble creatures come for the winter months. You can opt for a sleigh ride to steal a closer look at them in their natural habitat. Close by, warm up in Astoria Hot Springs.
February kicks off the Kings and Queens of Corbets where talent takes on talent in this freestyle competition. Numerous camps welcome avid snow junkies to better their sport. It’s also the best time to take in the serene wildlife with a snowmobile or snowshoeing tour.
New Orleans, Louisiana
February means carnival season and New Orleans is prime to celebrate. Mardi Gras is an unparalleled experience. The parades, the parties, the Krewes! With elaborate costumes, floats, and brilliant colors, the city transforms into an extravaganza of music, art, and dance, truly a beloved tradition.
Cultural fusion is in numerous aspects of the city, from music and dance to cuisine and customs. Additionally, February welcomes Tet Fest, a celebration of the Vietnamese New Year. The Big Easy also highlights its French culture and influence with the New Orleans French Film Festival. Besides epic festivals, New Orleans provides a plethora of engaging activities.
The city is home to numerous museums, riverboat cruises, history and culinary tours, unfathomable restaurants, and, of course, infinite live music venues in all corners of the city. Whether you’re seeking hair-raising ghost tours, mystic experiences, educational insight, or a scenic stroll through one of the neighborhoods, New Orleans has bites to satiate every palette.
Big Sky, Montana
Tis the season for shredding! Big Sky Montana is a paradise for snow enthusiasts. The slopes are prime this time of year, so grab your boats to cut into fresh powder. Even if treading down the trails isn’t your thing, Big Sky offers fresh-air adventures for all. From Nordic skiing and snowmobiling to horseback rides and coach tours, anyone can find a way to enjoy the great outdoors in personal style.
On the mountain, you’ll find weekly events like Peakside Pours, wine dinners, live music, avalanche dog meet and greets, and s’mores in the mountain village. In town, discover dining, shopping spas, and musical acts at the Wilson Hotel. February brings skijoring to town too. Whether you’re looking to relax or crush mounds of snow, Big Sky is the place to go.
Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona
Another hub for baseball fans to check out the preseason is the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. The Padres, Rockies, Dodgers, White Sox, and, of course, the Diamondbacks, call this home for the spring, making it popular with visitors during spring training season in Arizona. But there’s much more than base running happening here.
An excursion to this desert area is ideal for golf, spa trips, winter hikes, and delicious cuisine all because the weather is welcoming. Fresh air calls for numerous cultural events to flourish into action during February. Celebrate Jewish culture and stories from global participants of the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival.
Discover your inner ranchero during Scottsdale Western Week. See the beauty of horsepower at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. Dive into Arizona’s rich indigenous history with the Arizona Indian Festival. Experience the importance of dance to North American Indigenous Nations at the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest.
Then, go back to an era of wenches, knights, and queens at the annual Arizona Renaissance Festival. Love golf? Then you’ll want to see the WM Phoenix Open as it swings into town. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing detox or an energized outing, these Arizona cities have local staples that are vital for any vacation. Scottsdale Performing Arts Center is bursting with entertainment.
Unearth the best dishes around during a food tour and find the perfect activity for your little ones; from mini golf, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Arizona Science Center, and Wondespaces Arizona, your kids are sure to be amazed–and entertained. Regardless of your interests, Phoenix-Scottsdale in February has unmatched adventures.
Florence, Oregon
A quiet coastal town with a bounty to explore, Florence sits along the Sislaw River on the Oregonian coast. It’s an ideal escape for scenery and serenity. Sweeping dunes are one of the area’s most stunning attractions. Rolling clouds and misty air provide captivating images as well as tranquility.
Sink your toes into the sands as you explore the wonders of the tides, wading into the coastal waters. This quaint town is home to one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the United States, Heceta Lighthouse. It sits majestically on the rocky waters with trailheads for access. One of the most unique experiences is the sea lion caves; a protected area where wildlife comes and goes, made accessible by an elevator.
Each February, the town celebrates the Wine, Chowder, and Glass Float Trail; a celebration of local wines, delicious chowders, and hand-blown glass figurines which are hidden throughout the town.
Killington, Vermont
If you’re looking for some killer slopes on the East Coast, Vermont has a few to take you break out the wax and head for the hills. Killington keeps the entertainment flowing on and off the trails. Begin with a scenic gondola ride for an authentic lay of the land, then ski, snowboard, or snow tube to your heart’s content.
After a day of carving the slopes, refresh at the Grand Spa. Or unwind at the Wobbly Barn, an establishment as well known for its cuisine as it is for its entertainment. In February, the mountain hosts the Subaru Winterfest for a weekend of guaranteed amusement. Killington keeps the kids involved with a competition called Mini Shred Madness.
At weekends, legends from the X-games or even Olympic gold medalists are known to come out for some sessions to show the amateurs some slope secrets. Longing for some trail time but your kids aren’t keen? Killington’s Ramshead base lodge offers childcare from 12 weeks to 12 years so everyone can have a grand old time, on or off the mountain.
Everglades National Park, Florida
The sticky days of Southern Florida are still at bay, making this the ultimate time to adventure into the swampy marshlands known as the Florida Everglades. This is a treasured area, home to dynamic plant and animal life, and covering 1,509,000 acres in three Florida counties. Home to wildlife like the American crocodiles and endangered manatee, this expansive area has many nuances to explore.
Glide along the water, taking in the natural sites during an airboat ride. Bike along the expansive trails or take part in a ranger-guided tour. The Everglades are great for fishing, hiking, and boating. After all the outdoor excursions, relax at one of the preserve’s many beaches or find solace camping amongst the stars. Visitor centers are open daily and provide numerous talks and educational activities.
Day excursions to the Everglades are an easy drive when visiting the Miami-Fort Lauderdale or Naples areas. Lodging and restaurants make it simple to experience Florida’s wildlife mecca while relaxing in comfort. Note: There are three entrances to the park so make sure you check the closest entrance and map your stay to have the closest hotels and resources available.
Sonoma Valley, California
This wine-lovers paradise is brimming with fun in the winter months. The “off-season” is the best time to snag a deal on the perfect inn or hotel as well as snag a spot at one of the area’s best restaurants. Restaurant week kicks off mid-month, so scoring a deal on delicious menus is a bonus. Visiting in February means you can catch the mustard fields bursting with color.
As winter melts from the mountain area, the streams begin to overflow, allowing for cascading waterfalls, perfect for a meander through the region on a hike for some spectacular scenery. Family-friendly festivals like the Lake Sonoma Steel Festival and the Cloverdale Citrus Fair, make for great entertainment and discovering tasty treats.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Flirt with the Arctic Circle and gaze at the sky for nature’s stunning light show, Aurora Borealis, when you visit this Alaskan town. Fairbanks might just be the ultimate winter playground. February welcomes The World Ice Art Championships features over 80 sculpted works created by carvers from around the globe which are displayed around the town.
The Ice Art Classic is also sure to keep you enthralled and surprised. Besides crafted ice, this event boasts slides and play structures made entirely of ice. Perhaps the largest draw to the area is the Northern Lights. This breathtaking sight can be seen from August until April, making February an ideal time to view such a spectacle. Schedule a tour to Denali National Park and see the tallest peak in North America.
Try a mountaineering course or take in a dog sled race. Get personal with wildlife during a unique reindeer walk. Fairbanks also serves as a launch for Arctic excursions. After trudging through the snow landscape, warm up at the nearby Chena Hot Springs resort. Or visit the Museum of the North for some history and facts. At the end of the day, there are plenty of bed and breakfasts, hotels, and cabins, you’ll find the perfect cozy comfort to let the frost melt away.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
What’s a travel list without a few surprises? With a tempered climate and mafia heritage, this town offers more than meets the eye. Bathhouse Row, a series of eight buildings, was constructed over the area’s natural hot springs, some over 100 years ago. Each structure pays homage to the era in which it was crafted, making them a sight in general.
But what’s better is some are still operational. Plunge into the thermal waters at the quintessential Buckstaff Bathhouse or immerse yourself in the waters at Hotel Hale—this former bathhouse has been reimagined to bring the warm waters to your hotel room. Submerge yourself in history as well when you visit Fordyce Bathhouse and Museum, a decadent experience that fuses the traditional setting with an on-site museum.
Outside the toasty springs, you’ll find Hot Springs National Park boasting 26 miles of wondrous hikes as well as lakes for boating and fishing, and breathtaking views. Hit the 31 stops of the Hot Springs Baseball Trail to discover how baseball left its mark on the town. Place your bets on the fastest hoofs at the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort.
Discover the villains of the area at the Gangster Museum of America, including Capone’s favorite local watering hole (hint, The Ohio Club, hint). Plus, there are art galleries, wineries, markets, and loads of events to keep you bopping around the town.