January is often considered quite a nothing month, but if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to liven it up. You can either embrace the cold and make the most of winter snow sports or head to the states with almost guaranteed fine sunny weather. Here are my favorite spots to explore…
1. Breckenridge, Colorado
I’m a huge fan of the mountain town of Breckenridge. It offers incredible ski runs deeply coated in perfect powder for much of the winter months, vibrant après options, and a surprisingly lively nightlife in the town.
It’s filled pretty Victorian architecture, a charming vibe and an attractive main street. As well as offering legendary skiing opportunities it’s filled with independent cafes, excellent restaurants, and shops selling hand crafted products and unique souvenirs.
This month and February, is when the average snowfall is at its highest, and the town transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland.
- Visitor’s Center Address: The Breckenridge Welcome Centre, 203 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424, Phone: 877 864 0868
- Average temperatures – minus 1 to minus 7 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Wandering down Main Street, enjoying the magical holiday lights, and stopping off for a warm cup of hot chocolate.
- Going on a fun guided snowmobile tour (with Breckenridge Snowmobiling Tours & Rentals) and exploring the incredibly scenic backcountry.
- Visiting the International Snow Sculpture Championships, where I watched teams from all over the world hand-carve their creative ideas!
- Taking a ride on the highest chairlift in North America, the views of the snowy winter landscapes below were incredible!
2. Palm Desert, California 
I’m a big fan of this quirky destination which is located next to Palm Springs in the sun-baked Coachella Valley in California.
It’s a zen-like spot filled with natural hot springs, luxury hotel, country clubs, gourmet restaurants, golf courses and spa resorts.
Offering warm desert sun when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for winter, Palm Desert is popular among celebrities looking for a blissful winter retreat.
It’s neither too hot or too cold this time of year, so it’s perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and biking to desert treks and golf. I personally recommend just lounging by a swimming pool before relaxing at one of the many spas.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 73510 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
- Average temperature – 22 degrees
My highlights…
3. Zion National Park, Utah
This unique natural reserve is located in southwest Utah is filled with gorgeous scenery made up of imposing red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, canyons, gorges, forests and striking sandstone dunes.
The park experiences mild winters compared to other national parks in the country, so many walking trails are accessible even during the winter months (there’s just no shuttle system in operation).
I recommend including the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, Kolob Canyons, the Riverside Walk Trail and the Weeping Rock Trail on your itinerary as these are all accessible this time of year.
I personally think this month is a great time to explore Zion without the crowds you’ll find here in the peak season!
- Visitors Center Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd, Zion National Park, UT 84767
- Phone: (435) 772-3256
- Average temperature – 10 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking to the Observation Point for incredible panoramic park views via the scenic East Mesa Trail.
- Driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It was a winding two-lane road which took us through the park and offered magnificent vistas at every turn.
4. Big Sky, Montana
I personally think this month is a great month to visit Big Sky because of its huge range of family-friendly events and winter activities as well as the magical snowy scenery.
These activities include sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice trekking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and the fun après ski scene for those who like to party!
Yellowstone National Park is nearby and for the less adventurous awesome indoor activities include escape rooms, spa treatments, art galleries, local cooking classes and the interesting Historic Crail Ranch Museum.
I absolutely love how the winter evenings in Big Sky, from December to February, are perfect for cozying up in log cabins by roaring fires.
- Visitors Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT
- Average temperatures – 0 to -13 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the scenic Ousel Falls Trailhead and the discovering the frozen waterfall.
- Exploring the unique boutiques in the town center, I loved the trendy jewelry in the Rhinestone Cowgirl.
- Going for beginner skiing lessons at the Big Sky Resort.
5. Miami, Florida
Filled with sun-kissed sandy beaches, buzzing beach bars, and opulent At-Deco-style hotels, I can never get enough of this fun city!
Miami is a popular year-round destination, but this month is a great time to visit. Not only will you miss the busy crowds of families and spring-breakers but you can find funky hotel stays at more budget-friendly prices.
The balmy sub-tropical climate also means that you’ll be treated to warm weather and plenty of sunshine. I recommend strolling down the famous Ocean Drive, visiting museums such as the Vizcaya Museum and Perez Art Museum, and discovering the lively clubs and casinos – the options are endless!
- Visitors Center Address: 530 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
- Average temperature – 23 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the city’s attractions on a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus tour.
- Discovering the Night Garden, a spectacular botanical garden which had stunning light displays this time of year.
- Relaxing on Miami Beach and photographing the super-cute Art Deco-style lifeguard towers!
6. Hunting Island, South Carolina
Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre semi-tropical barrier island located 15 miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina. It’s filled with pristine beaches, green forests, a striking historic lighthouse, and an interesting nature center.
I personally think it’s great to visit during the off-peak months as you avoid the summer crowds and it feels like you have the island to yourself!
I loved the scenic saltwater lagoon, the soft sandy beaches, the popular fishing pier and the haunting Boneyard Beach which was filled with the surreally beautiful sight of tree skeletons.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 713 Craven St, Beaufort, SC 29902
- Average temperature – 13 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the unique scenery on the Lighthouse Trail and then climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse and enjoying the picturesque view overlooking the coast and nearby islands.
- Taking an evening stroll along the Hunting Island campground and admiring the clear starry skies.
7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California
The dreamily named Heavenly Mountain Resort is located on the southern shores of Lake Tahoe. It’s a truly magical spot in the winter with powdery slopes, skiing galore, scenic snow-capped mountains and fun après-ski scene, which I highly recommend making the most of!
The ski resort is also home to a huge range winter activities. Here you can choose from snowboarding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing and my personal favorite, the scenic gondola ride which had beautiful panoramic views.
This is an ideal time to ski, as it’s post-Christmas holidays and the slopes have had plenty of time to develop a thick base of snow, topped with a fresh layer of powder that continues to fall throughout the month.
- Visitor Center Address: Explore Tahoe Visitor Center 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe
- Average temperature – 8 to -2 degrees
My personal highlights…
- Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski Party, where the atmosphere was electric, the DJs were fantastic, and the cocktails were superb – all at an exhilarating 9,150 feet above sea level!
- Enjoying the Insta-worthy views at the observation tower before taking one of the epic runs back to the resort.
8. Brunswick and The Golden Isles, Georgia
The Golden Isles are home to the charming city of Brunswick and the dreamy barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.
Located along Georgia’s Atlantic Coast, I love the scenery here which consists of gorgeous marshlands, thick green forests and long, wide sandy beaches.
I personally think the off-peak season is an excellent time to visit, as you’ll avoid the summer crowds and get great deals on accommodation (which range from cosy inns to luxury resorts).
I love the breathtaking views, the interesting historic landmarks and the long, wide golf courses. Throw in that superb southern hospitality, and personally I think this is winter break perfection!
- Visitor Center Address: 2017 Lee St, Brunswick, GA 31520
- Average temperature – 18 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Catching a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in the Old Town, I loved the retro decor!
- Exploring the art galleries and interesting museums, my favorites were the Glynn Visual Arts and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.
- Spending a night camping at Jekyll Island Campground, I loved gazing at the unpolluted starry skies here!
9. Payette National Forest, Idaho
Based in central-western Idaho, the Payette National Forest is home to 2.3 million acres of peaceful natural beauty and I personally think it offers a fantastic alternative to the bigger-name ski resorts like Aspen.
It’s blessed with 300 inches of snow annually and offers a huge range of fun winter activities. Outdoor activities include snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, fat biking and even winter camping!
Indoor activities include spa resorts, art galleries, museums, shopping, craft breweries and indoor ice skating.
- Visitors Center Address: 500 N Mission St, McCall 83638
- Average temperature – minus 1 to minus 16 degrees
My highlights…
- Taking beginner snowboarding lessons which was a lot of fun despite the many falls!
- Going on a snowmobile tours across the magical landscapes.
- Learning about the county’s history and native tribes at Payette County Museum.
10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii
This paradise-like coastal town is located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. It’s a seriously dreamy spot filled with blue skies and a tropical climate all year round.
During the summer months (June to October) is can get extremely hot, so the temperatures this month (around 27 degrees) provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy its soft, white, powdery beaches.
I loved just sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, shopping, relaxing at the spa resorts, exploring the farmer’s markets and soaking up the laid-back vibes.
This area is one of the warmest places in the country during this month, making it an excellent choice for enjoying some winter sun!
- Visitors Center Address: Big Island Guide 73-4318 Keokeo St, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
- Average temperature – 27 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a tour to see the Kīlauea Volcano and an interesting coffee farm (there are many located here)!
- Discovering the unique and beautiful Punaluu Black Sand Beach after grabbing some picnic food at the Punalu’u Bake Shop.
- Visiting the famous Akaka Falls, which stands at 442 feet high. I found it by following the scenic Akaka Falls Loop Trail.
11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah
Located in Wasatch Mountains of Utah, these two magical resorts are a skiers paradise! Offering some of the best opportunities for winter activities in the whole country, Alta averages 550 inches of snow annually, so the season is very long and varied.
Snowbird is located a mile from Alta and is famous for having a all-year-round ski season – it lasts over 200 days! It also offers a wide array of slopes, so all levels of skiing abilities are welcome here.
This month sees heavy snowfall in both resorts which covers the top of an already thick covering. I also love the bright, clear days here where I can see the stunning panoramic views as I head up and down the ski lift!
- Visitors Center Address: 9260 E Lodge Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092
- Phone: (801) 933-2222
- Average temperature – 3 degrees
My personal highlights…
- Indulging in a luxury aromatherapy massage at the upscale Cliff Spa.
- Experiencing thrilling helicopter skiing on a fresh powder day, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
- Going on a guided ski tour and discovering the tranquil backcountry trails.
12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
This is a very surreally beautiful spot and one which makes a fantastic destination to explore in the winter. Located in southern New Mexico, this protected area is home to one world’s largest gypsum dunefield!
It’s filled with seemingly endless stretches of bright white sand, unique species of fauna and flora that incredibly survive in these inhospitable conditions and active dunes which move at a rate of up to 30 feet per year.
It’s too hot to visit here in summer, so winter is definitely the best time to discover this gem.
- Visitor Center Address: 19955 US-70 W, Alamogordo, NM 88310
- Phone: (575) 479-6124
- Average temperature – 14 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Sledging down the sand dunes which was a fun experience (just remember to cover your face if you try it too)!
- Spending two nights camping under the unbelievably clear starry skies at Campsite #1 (there are ten campsites in total to choose from).
13. Death Valley, California
Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California that borders the Great Basin Desert and is one of the hottest places on Earth.
One of the hottest, driest, and lowest national parks and places in the world, Death Valley has unbearably blistering summer temperatures. So I recommend visiting in the wintertime instead!
The two exclusive hotels here offer distinct experiences, either relaxing or adventurous. Both have swimming pools and organized tours.
I suggest spotting its unique wildlife, such as desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and tiny pupfish living in pools saltier than seawater. I also highly recommend stargazing free from light pollution in this mesmerizing landscape at night! It’s a seriously unique travel experience!
- Visitor Center Address: 328 Greenland Blvd, Death Valley, CA 92328
- Phone: (760) 786-3200
- Average temperature – 19 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a journey along Artists Drive and discovering the Artists Palette whilst admiring the pink granite and magnificent rock formations.
- Enjoying a hike through the Golden Canyon, which offered some seriously Insta-worthy views.
- Catching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the most iconic places in Death Valley. The panoramic views were stunning!
14. San Diego, California
I honestly think San Diego is an excellent destination to visit this month because, while it is cooler compared with other months, it still offers a great escape from cold, dreary weather. It boasts an almost picture-perfect, year-round Mediterranean-like climate with sunshine and soft ocean winds.
I recommend exploring its beautiful beaches, family-friendly parks, world-class restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent artistic and cultural offerings, which are especially enjoyable with thinned-out crowds during the winter.
I’d also recommend choosing from various activities such as sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and bodyboarding; they’re all great fun and will immerse you in the Californian lifestyle!
Other attractions I’d suggest visiting include the Immense Balboa Park, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, the Japanese Botanical Gardens, Old Town San Diego, art galleries, museums, and gardens.
- Visitor Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Average temperature – 19 degrees
My highlights…
- Taking a stroll around San Diego Botanic Garden on the 4-mile-long trails, which took me past a stunning array of flora and fauna.
- Visiting the Old Town and sampling the tasty tacos at the Mexican restaurants.
- Exploring on the hop-on-hop-off bus to explore all the city’s main attractions.
15. Mt Baker, Washington
Mt. Baker Ski Area is an epic ski resort in Washington with unbeatable snow levels of up to 17 meters per season, extreme inbounds terrain, and vastly accessible backcountry. I personally think the fresh powder snow in high volumes makes Mt. Baker an excellent attraction for skiers and snowboarders.
Since Mt Baker is not as well known as some of its comparable ski resorts, it’s generally less crowded, making it ideal for anyone looking for discreet ski time away from the rush.
Along with its groomed ski trails, I highly recommend participating in the fun winter sports here, like snowmobiling, snow hikes, sledging, and exploring the spellbinding old-growth forest!
- Visitor Center Address: 7509 Mount Baker Hwy, Maple Falls, WA 98266
- Average temperature – minus 9 to minus 14 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the incredible area by snowshoeing.
- Trying the tasty microbrews at North Fork Beer Shrine.
16. South Padre Island & Port Isabel, Texas
South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island filled with soft beaches and calm waters, located off the coast of Texas. While summers can get too hot, and spring attracts large crowds, I personally think winter, with pleasant temperatures between 55°F – 75°F, is the best time to visit South Padre Island.
I’d highly recommend visiting the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Centre, a five-story watchtower with marvelous views of migrating birds.
A short trip away is Port Isabel, which is separated from the shores of South Padre Island by the 2.6-mile-long Queen Isabella Causeway. I suggest a magical dolphin spotting cruise, strolling along Laguna Madre Nature Trail, or a picnic in Isla Blanca Park.
With its pleasant subtropical climate and rich culture and history, I honestly think it’s no surprise that South Padre Island is a favorite winter destination for many – it’s a dreamy gem!
- Visitor Center Address: 600 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
- Average temperature – 21 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting one of the most Instagrammable spots, Holiday Sandcastle Village, and seeing incredible life-size sculptures.
- Taking a trip to the entertainment district and trying out the Ferris wheel, mini-golf and go-karts.
- Enjoying a relaxed stroll along the beach whilst listening to the serene sounds of the ocean.
17. Moosehead Lake, Maine
This deep, cold-water lake in the Longfellow Mountains is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States.
I highly recommend cozying up in a rustic cabin by a serene frozen lake surrounded by picturesque scenery. It’s pure cosy bliss, especially if you’re on a romantic break.
The adventure activities on offer here include winter hikes, snowmobiling, and snowshoe trails by day, campfires, and stargazing into the clear northern skies by night.
And if you’re still after more, you might even see the elusive Northern Lights on your trip. I didn’t see them on my trip, but it’s possible!
In this month, the nearby Squaw Mountain is also open to snowboarders and skiers as well.
- Visitor Center Address: 480 Moosehead Lake Rd, Greenville, ME 04441
- Average temperatures – minus 6 to minus 18 degrees
My highlights…
- Starting the day with a hearty breakfast around the lake, ready for a full day of snowy activities.
- Taking a snowmobile ride along the Moosehead Trail, which offered an expansive and scenic range of 160 miles.
- Going cross-country skiing around the lake and experiencing the stunning scenery.
18. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park comprises of seven islands with protected coral reefs. Here, you can escape the cold winters and relish the warm Floridian sunshine all year round.
As the name suggests, the Dry Tortugas have a dry winter season (November-March) with little or no rainfall, which is not as hot and humid as its summer months.
I personally think January is a great time to visit because the warm temperatures allow for snorkeling, sunbathing on the beaches, and enjoying other water sports like kayaking and boating without being too hot and humid.
Also, with fewer visitors, you have a much better chance of spotting rare birds that call this area home, including the Brown Noddy, Sooty Tern, Brown Pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, and Black-bellied Plovers.
My personal favorite islands are the Loggerhead Key, which has an iconic lighthouse and sea turtles, and Garden Key, which has gorgeous beaches and the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.
- Visitor Center Address: Florida Keys, FL 33040
- Phone: (305) 294-7009
- Average temperatures – 24 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the historic Fort Jefferson which offered stunning views overlooking the crystal-clear waters and surrounding islands.
- Experiencing some of the best snorkeling in Florida at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins.
- Taking a walk around the lush Bush Key.
19. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson has been dubbed the ‘City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO, and rightly so!
This amazing city offers some of the most remarkable restaurants, cafes, bars, and breweries in the Southwest – and so unsurprisingly, Tucson’s downtown is a thriving hub of activity and fun.
Apart from its rich food scene, Tucson offers spectacular natural beauty and is surrounded by national parks and pine forests, such as Saguaro National Park and Mount Lemmon, a colossal cave, open-air museums and gardens, and an iconic old town. I would highly recommend exploring all of them!
Summer gets very hot, so I highly recommend visiting during the winter months instead.
- Visitor Center Address: Southern Tucson Visitor Center, 115 N. Church Ave. Tucson, AZ 85701
- Average temperatures – 19 degrees
My personal highlights…
- Taking an underground tour at Kartchner Caverns State Park and discovering the mesmerizing cave formations.
- Visiting Pima Air and Space Museum, the world’s largest aerospace museum which was home to over 300 aircraft.
- Playing a round of golf in the Tuscan sunshine.
20. Fairbanks, Alaska
One of Alaska’s largest cities, Fairbanks, is situated at a latitude that makes it perfect for witnessing the famed Aurora Borealis.
Your chances of seeing the Northern lights are higher this month, but the crowds are fewer due to the very cold weather. As it’s officially off-season, January offers much better flights, hotels, and tour deals.
I think it’s a magical place with serene mountains, pristine rivers, and lakes teeming with wildlife, so make sure you spot wildlife here!
Experience sunrises and sunsets that last a long time (typically two hours), and this is when the sky’s made up of a kaleidoscope of brilliant oranges and blues.
There is also an array of winter activities on offer, and I suggest sledging, snowmobiling, snow hiking, and visiting the nearby Chena hot springs!
- Visitor Center Address: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
- Average temperatures – minus 8 to minus 26 degrees
My highlights…
- Experiencing the sky coming alive on a Northern Lights tour and watching the lights shimmering above me – an experience I’ll never forget!
- Discovering the creative and incredible sculptures at the Ice Museum.
- Relaxing at the beautiful Chena Hot Springs Resort, which is run off geothermal energy.
