Looking for winter vacation ideas in the us that aren't all about skiing? Think snowy cabins, palm-lined waterfronts and a night beneath the northern lights.
You can go all out with snowy adventures or choose a coastal break instead.
If your search for “winter vacation ideas united states” has you torn between mountains and beaches, start with what you'd love to do. These pictures offer trip inspiration, not confirmed locations or a promise of winter weather. The flower-filled views aren't a guide to winter blooms either.
Winter getaways worth saving
ski-town sunsets
We’re starting off strong with this snowy street and gorgeous orange-pink sky. I love the mountain backdrop between the red buildings.
There are even skiers making their way down the middle!
For a similar getaway, look for a mountain village with designated ski access rather than assuming you can ski on its streets.
snowmobile trails
Want a snow day that goes beyond the slopes? This line of snowmobiles follows a trail between snow-covered evergreens.
The bright blue sky makes the view even prettier.
Try adding a guided snowmobile outing to your trip. Check the operator’s age requirements and driving rules before booking.
palms along the waterfront
Don’t want snow to be part of your vacation? No problem!
These pale rooftops, tall palms and waterfront paths give you a completely different kind of inspo. I especially love the little colorful sightseeing train.
Read also: 20 Family Vacation Destinations in December and Holiday Trip Ideas
Consider the Florida Keys for a waterfront-focused escape. Leave an afternoon open for wandering instead of filling every hour.
a sleigh through the woods
How pretty is this view from the sleigh? The white horse, red seat and snow-covered fences are such a lovely combination.
If you want to try a forest sleigh ride, look for an operator with a woodland route. Confirm availability before you build your day around it.
a little snowy cabin
I am obsessed with this little brown cabin. The snow piled on the roof and surrounding branches is so pretty.
That small front porch may just be my favorite part.
For a cabin stay of your own, check winter road access before booking. Keep this picture for the setting rather than clues about what’s inside.
green lights overhead
How gorgeous are those green ribbons across the sky? I love the snowy trees underneath and all the tiny stars above them.
Consider Alaska if seeing the northern lights is high on your list. Give yourself several nights if possible, but remember that clouds and aurora activity can still keep them out of view.
red rocks at dusk
If you love a colorful landscape, this one is for you. The red rock towers against that pink-purple sky are beautiful.
Don’t miss the little moon just above them!
Consider Sedona for a red-rock getaway. Plan around the rock formations and viewpoints rather than expecting the colorful flowers shown here in winter.
a dogsled view
This gives you a different view of the snowy forest, right behind a team of harnessed dogs. The trail stretches ahead between the trees with no buildings in sight.
For a similar outing, choose a dogsled operator that explains its animal-care practices. Ask what the ride involves so you can decide whether it suits your group.
a beach day instead
Don’t want snow boots anywhere near your suitcase? This sandy shoreline might be more your thing.
I love the clear shallows beside the dark rocks.
Read also: 20 Caribbean Honeymoon Ideas, From Mountain Views to Pink Beaches
Consider a Hawaii beach getaway if you’d rather spend your time by the ocean. Follow local swimming advice since a calm-looking picture doesn’t tell you about winter surf.
holiday lights and peaked roofs
How cute is this festive street? There are lights along the steep rooftops and even decorations on the horse-drawn carriage.
This is one to save if you love an all-out holiday look.
For a similar Bavarian-style setting, consider Leavenworth, Washington. Check current lighting and event dates before choosing your travel week.
a sleigh ride for two
This is another lovely sleigh idea, but the plaid blankets make it a little different from the one above. I love the tiny lights among the snow-covered branches.
If you’re planning a couple’s getaway, ask about a private sleigh booking for just the two of you.
skating beneath the skyline
Who says you need to head into the mountains for a winter outing? I love this outdoor rink with the tall city buildings behind it.
For a New York trip, consider skating at Central Park’s Wollman Rink. Check current hours and tickets, then leave time for a park walk afterward.
a lazy-river break
If your ideal vacation involves doing a little less, save this one. The turquoise water curves past tall palms and a huge rock feature.
There are floating tubes in the water too.
Look for a desert resort with a lazy river if this is your kind of escape. Ask about winter pool operations and water heating before you book.
a village full of lights
I am obsessed with these golden lights against the blue evening sky. The snow-covered lane and mountain slopes in the distance are just as pretty.
A mountain village could be a lovely choice if evening strolls are part of your plans. Check decoration dates if those glowing trees are what you’re most excited to see.
a snowy town stroll
Don’t want a big adventure every day? No problem!
This snowy street with its porch-front buildings and little hanging signs is lovely inspiration for a slower town visit.
Read also: 20 Best Places to Travel for Christmas, From Festive Cities to Beach Escapes
Leave an afternoon open for browsing and taking pictures. That bright red coat looks so cute against all the snow.
ocean views from the bluffs
I love this path through the purple flowers with the ocean just beyond it. The bridge and long stretch of beach give you plenty more to look at.
Consider the Southern California coast for a walking-focused break. Save this for the coastal scenery rather than expecting the same flowers during your winter visit.
a mountain-view base
If you want mountain scenery to be a big part of your trip, this one is for you. The broad red-brown building sits below snowy peaks with ski runs cutting through the trees.
Read also: 20 Romantic Hotel and Getaway Ideas for Your US Travel Wishlist
Look for a place to stay that suits your skiing plans and your days off. Check lift transport separately from the room’s mountain view.
towering blue ice
How gorgeous are these pale blue ice walls? The long icicles make the people standing below look tiny.
This is such a different snowy outing from the cabin and village ideas.
Consider an organized ice attraction for your itinerary. Check weather-dependent opening dates close to your visit.
Stay within its designated visitor areas.
cabins among the trees
This is another cabin idea worth saving if you love a wooded setting. I especially like the balconies looking out over the snow and bare branches.
For a group trip, compare sleeping arrangements and shared spaces before choosing a rental. The outside alone won’t tell you whether everyone will have room.
earth-colored walls and turquoise doors
Last but definitely not least, we have these stepped earth-colored buildings. I love the turquoise doors!
The mountain behind them gives you another reason to stop and take in the view.
For a New Mexico itinerary, consider visiting Taos Pueblo when it’s open to visitors. It’s a living Indigenous community, so check official visiting rules and closures.
Don’t take this snow-free scene as a forecast for your trip.
Just a little note - some of the links on here may be affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you decide to shop through them (at no extra cost to you!). I only post content which I'm truly enthusiastic about and would suggest to others.
And as you know, I seriously love seeing your takes on the looks and ideas on here - that means the world to me! If you recreate something, please share it here in the comments or feel free to send me a pic. I'm always excited to meet y'all! ✨🤍
Xoxo Emily