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13 Beautiful Winter Drives Around the United States

There’s a lot to see on these winter road trips, from iconic national parks to covered bridges and a centuries-old fort.

Winter can be an ideal time to explore America's open roads. Cruising through a landscape blanketed with a fresh coat of snow is a dreamy way to travel during what, for many destinations, is the off-season. The fact that winter usually sees fewer tourists on the road certainly doesn't hurt.

Of course, winter driving comes with its own set of precautions. Snow makes the scenery pop, but it also makes the roads slick. And slick roads are challenging to navigate when you're in unfamiliar territory. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends stocking your ride with a basic winter survival kit containing an ice scraper, jumper cables, and road flares, a flashlight, batteries, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. (Tire chains couldn't hurt either.) Always confirm that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance before embarking on a winter drive.

Ready to hit the road? Read on for 13 of the most beautiful winter drives in the U.S., from Florida to Alaska.

Arches National Park Road, Utah

Starting point: Arches National Park entrance

The route: 36 miles round trip on the park's scenic drive

What to expect: Beautiful any time of year, Arches National Park 's natural sandstone sculptures assume an ethereal quality when covered in a layer of snow and bathed in soft winter light — much to the delight of desert photographers. The National Park Service keeps the scenic drive plowed, though the process could take several hours right after a snowfall.

The paved Arches National Park Road , an out-and-back route, provides easy access to park attractions like the historic cabin Wolfe Ranch; the Windows Section , home to some of the park's largest arches; and the Delicate Arch viewpoint, the best-known attraction in the park.

Where to stop: Park in the Windows Section to stretch your legs on a half-hour stroll beneath North Window or Double Arch. About four miles further on the drive, stop at Wolfe Ranch and pretend you've traveled back to the 1800s. From here, you can hike a mile and a half uphill to Delicate Arch, but beware of ice on the trail.

Seward Highway, Alaska

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Anchorage, Alaska

The route: About 50 miles on the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Portage

What to expect: Find the epitome of beautiful winter scenery among the snowcapped peaks of Chugach National Forest as you travel along Alaska's Seward Highway. Finish the journey at the ghost town of Portage or steel your nerves — and make sure you have chains — for the remainder of the drive all the way to Seward, another 80 miles past Portage.

Although Alaska is known for its cold and snowy climate, the Seward Highway is a highly trafficked route that stays relatively clear through the winter. The drive from Anchorage to Portage takes only about an hour — two and a half hours if you go all the way to Seward — so it can absolutely be done in a day.

Where to stop: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a close-up view of native fauna — like reindeer, lynx, moose, and grizzlies — that have been injured and can no longer survive in the wild. The tiny settlement of Whittier (about halfway between Anchorage and Seward) is known as "the town under one roof" because most of its residents live in the same 14-story building (which also houses the post office, police station, convenience store, and health clinic). Its remoteness and notably small population (of about 250 people) have turned it into a tourist attraction.

Yosemite Valley Loop, California

Don Smith/Alamy

Starting point: Groveland, California

The route: CA-120/Big Oak Flat Road from Groveland to El Portal Road in Yosemite, then El Portal Road to Southside Drive, looping around to Northside Drive and ending back at El Portal Road, about 45 miles

What to expect: Driving through Yosemite Valley in the off-season reveals an awe-strikingly silent winter wonderland. Snowfalls coat its granite monoliths, and cold temperatures turn parts of Yosemite Falls to ice. The park has many annual winter road closures , but Yosemite Valley and Wawona remain accessible by car all year. Specifically, Wawona Road (Highway 41), El Portal Road (Highway 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 from the west), and Hetch Hetchy Road are open year-round but subject to weather-related closures.

Where to stop: The adventurous set can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area, accessible from mid-December through early April. The road to get to it is maintained, but tire chains are often required. Besides that, make sure to stop under El Capitan in the Valley and admire its grandeur.

Covered Bridge Circuit Through Parke County, Indiana

Starting point: Rockville, Indiana

The route: Bridgeton Road from Rockville to Bridgeton, High Banks and Rosedale roads to Rosedale, Coxville Road to Mecca, then Mecca Road and U.S. Highway 41 back to Rockville, totaling about 45 miles

What to expect: With 31 historic covered bridges, Parke County is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World," and perhaps the best time to see them is after it snows. The bridges, many of them built in the 1800s and still in use, cross icy rivers and streams, contrasting gorgeously with meadows blanketed in white. There are many different routes you can take, but this loop showcases eight bridges and takes about an hour and a half.

Where to stop: Along the route, pause to admire the McAllister Covered Bridge, built in 1914; Neet Covered Bridge; Bridgeton Covered Bridge; Roseville Covered Bridge, the longest of the eight; Mecca Bridge, the oldest (completed in 1873); Phillip's Bridge, the shortest; Sim Smith Bridge, supposedly haunted; and Melcher Bridge. If you fancy a snack midway, stop in Rosedale for biscuits and gravy or a slice of pie at Comar's Cafe .

Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Starting point: Front Royal or Rockfish Gap, Virginia

The route: 105 miles between Front Royal and Rockfish Gap on Skyline Drive

What to expect: The Blue Ridge Mountains are arguably the prettiest peaks in the eastern United States, and Skyline Drive carries travelers right along their crest. It's the only public road through Shenandoah National Park (though portions may close during inclement weather). In the winter , many of Shenandoah's 500-plus miles of trails remain open for snowshoe and ski enthusiasts keen to see crystallized waterfalls and other iced-over sites.

Where to stop: Stick to the 35-mph speed limit and pick any of the 75 overlooks along the drive for sprawling views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west or the Piedmont Mountains to the east. Watch for wildlife, too — though many animals hibernate, foxes and bobcats remain active all winter.

Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

Starting point: Ouray or Silverton, Colorado

The route: 24 miles on U.S. 550 between Ouray and Silverton

What to expect: Is this Colorado road called the Million Dollar Highway for its million-dollar views? Or because an early traveler was so spooked by the route's steep climbs and hairpin turns that he claimed he would never travel it again, not even for a million dollars? Perhaps it's because the road reportedly cost a million dollars a mile to build. Whatever the reason, there's no denying the dramatic drive – part of the San Juan Skyway, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway – offers priceless mountain vistas.

Keep in mind that the highway, or sections of it, can close due to snow. During the winter, snow chains are recommended as it's a mountainous route with many steep cliffs and sharp turns.

Where to stop: Pull over at any of the designated viewpoints to take in natural wonders like Bear Creek Falls and the iron-rich peaks of Red Mountain. If you plan to stick around for more exploring, make the historic town of Silverton your basecamp. A bit off the route but still worth a visit is the ghost town and former mining hub of Animas Forks.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina

Starting point: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The route: About 120 miles on U.S. Highway 441 and the Blue Ridge Parkway

What to expect: This drive takes you through the stunning alpine wilderness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest. From Gatlinburg, stop along U.S. 441 at Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, then hop on the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Stretch your legs on a winter hike to the Devil's Courthouse summit before continuing the journey to Asheville.

Where to stop: Play for a day at Ober Mountain , a mountainside amusement park with skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more — the 2.1-mile Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg to the top is a scenic treat in itself. On the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll get your pick of more than 50 scenic pullouts with mountain views. On the other side, in Asheville, a tour of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate is a must.

Route 100, Vermont

Dennis Curran/VermontVacation.com

Starting point: Stowe, Vermont

The route: 142 miles on VT-100

What to expect: Most roads that traverse this beautiful state are scenic, but Vermont Route 100 (VT-100) is arguably the best of the lot. It puts road-trippers in the perfect position for exploring the charming villages of Wilmington and Weston and touring the Mad River Valley and Moss Glen Falls. Winter is an excellent time to visit this part of Vermont, big on skiing and winter sports. Even if you aren't in the mood for outdoor adventure, the atmosphere is cozy and lively as ever.

Where to stop: Almost every village on the route offers a quaint country store, but Weston's old-timey Vermont Country Store is the ultimate pit stop for practical souvenirs and unique regional treats. And it may be winter, but the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury is nevertheless a must-visit.

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Starting point: Chimayo, New Mexico

The route: 49 miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Chimayo and Taos on NM-76, aka the High Road

What to expect: An hour-long journey into the high desert will reward you with sights of snow-dusted junipers and piñon pines as you travel past the wood-carving village of Cordova, marveling at the snow-capped Truchas Peak rising 13,102 feet high in the distance. Start at Nambé Pueblo , a centuries-old Indigenous community just south of Chimayo, for a dose of history.

Where to stop: Santuario de Chimayo , near the starting point of this drive, stands on what some consider sacred ground with miraculous healing powers. San José de Gracia de Las Trampas is a National Historic Landmark along the High Road. Closer to Taos, San Francisco de Asís Mission Church dates back more than 200 years.

Highway 57 in Door County North, Wisconsin

Starting point: Green Bay, Wisconsin

The route: 85 miles on Wisconsin Highway 57 from Green Bay to Gills Rock

What to expect: Door County North provides the Upper Midwest with its own Cape Cod experience: Think coastal towns, local shops, and family-owned restaurants that invite a heartwarming winter escape. The popular hour, 45-minute winter drive between Green Bay and Gills Rock ping-pongs between the eastern and western shores of the peninsula. After passing through a handful of small, historic towns, you'll land at the top.

Where to stop: Take every opportunity to stop and soak in the sites of Lake Michigan. On the eastern shore, you'll find the tallest dunes in Wisconsin at Whitefish Dunes State Park and some extraordinary cliffside ice formations at the nearby Cave Point County Park . At Newport State Park , on Lake Michigan near Gills Rock, you can cross-country ski on more than 26 miles of trails. Newport is also a designated Dark Sky Park , and long winter nights are great for stargazing.

Lake Tahoe Loop, California and Nevada

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Incline Village, Nevada, or South Lake Tahoe, California

The route: 72 miles around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe on NV-28, U.S. 50, and CA-89

What to expect: Sierra Nevada peaks are reflected in one of the deepest lakes in North America, casting breathtaking scenes on its glassy surface — an especially resplendent sight in winter. It takes about two hours to drive the perimeter of Lake Tahoe without stopping, but plan extra time for whatever beauty captures your attention along the way. The route on the eastern side of Lake Tahoe (in Nevada) is a National Scenic Byway, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

Where to stop: Sand Harbor , part of the 14,300-acre Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, is an ideal place to dip your toes into the icy lake (it never freezes) before hitting the trails for a winter walk, snowshoe, or ski. Additionally, stop near the state line closest to South Lake Tahoe for a scenic gondola ride to Heavenly Ski Resort , home to a viewing platform offering epic bird's-eye views of the lake along with tubing and ice skating.

Lakes to Locks Passage, New York

Starting point: Waterford or Whitehall, New York

The route: 60 miles on U.S. 4 between Waterford and Whitehall

What to expect: This National Scenic Byway travels north–south for 190 miles through northeastern New York State, but the stretch between Waterford and Whitehall is especially beautiful. When the temperature drops below freezing, the lakes and ponds along this National Scenic Byway turn into ice-fishing destinations.

More into birds than fish? This winter drive passes through the Atlantic Flyway, so keep an eye out for overwintering dark-eyed juncos, evening grosbeaks, and purple finches.

Where to stop: Enjoy views of the Hudson River and the Champlain Canal along the drive. At Saratoga National Historical Park , stop at the Schuyler Estate , built in 1777 as the home of General Philip Schuyler, Alexander Hamilton's father-in-law. It's where the wedding of Hamilton and General Schuyler's daughter Elizabeth took place in 1780.

Interstate 95 to U.S. 1, Florida

Starting point: St. Augustine, Florida

The route: About 470 miles; take I-95 from St. Augustine to Miami before switching to U.S. 1 from Miami to Key West

What to expect: Not up to battling winter road hazards? Skip chilly temperatures and enjoy Florida's glorious take on winter. For a scenic drive that showcases the best of the Sunshine State, head south along its Atlantic coast from St. Augustine — the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States — all the way to Key West , the southernmost point of the continental U.S. You'll find sand in place of snow and palms instead of pines.

Where to stop: Explore must-see highlights like historic St. Augustine, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S. The route passes by the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Miami (make sure to stop for a cortadito in Little Havana for a perfect behind-the-wheel pick-me-up), and the Florida Keys , where you'll cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Key West.

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15 Best Winter Road Trips in the USA

Let's face it, shorter days and gray skies can make the winter months seem way longer than they are. So kindle your adventurous spirit and belt out some of your favorite holiday tunes on an epic winter road trip that's sure to make the season bright.

From festive, holiday card-worthy villages to a frosty take on some of America's greatest parks, we've searched far and wide to find the most irresistible winter destinations for you this season.

Discover the many faces of the American winter in our best winter road trips in the USA, which include world-class slopes, charming towns full of cheer, and sunnier spots to beat the winter blues. There's sure to be a trip for you.

Read on below to discover the best winter road trips, conveniently organized, and start planning your own!

Best winter road trips in the USA: a quick overview

Our favorite winter national parks.

One of America's greatest offerings is its vast, diverse National Park system. While crowded in the summer months, the winter is a great time to have a quieter, more relaxed experience in some of the country's most popular parks.

1. Road Trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe via Yosemite

10 hours 10 minutes (520 miles)

Why you should visit: This road trip from LA to Lake Tahoe is a double feature of the two most majestic natural gems in California's Sierra Nevada Mountain range. For many coastal Californians, these are the go-to places to experience that mythical thing called snow which is rumored to fall in winter.

A chance to see the glacier-carved granite cliffs of Yosemite Valley and the deep blue azure of Tahoe surrounded by snow will make you wonder why you haven't taken this trip already.

How to get there: Hop on I-5 N until Fresno, then take California Routes 99 and 41 N /Wawona Road. into Yosemite Valley. From Yosemite, Take California Route 120 to California Route 49 N and 88 E which will take you in to South Lake Tahoe.

If you'd like to see more of Lake Tahoe, drive along scenic Highway 89 from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City, it's well worth the extra mileage.

Our highlights: The Valley Loop Trail in Yosemite is mostly flat and easy to do in any season. From here you get a great view of Yosemite's most famous natural monuments, like Half Dome, and if you're lucky they might have a dusting of snow to go with the season.

There are also great opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Yosemite. People of all skill levels can find a beautiful trail or even groomed track to explore.

Tahoe in winter is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders - some places such as Palisades Tahoe and the aptly named Sugar Bowl get 500 inches of snow in a year. Many of the region's connoisseurs prefer slopes around the North Lake Tahoe area, so consider extending your trip up there.

Whether you ski or not, it is worth taking a trip on the Gondola at Heavenly Resort to the observation deck to see the lake decked out in all its frosty glory. Continue your gondola ride up to the lodge and enjoy a warm drink in a cozy setting.

Finally, make time to simply take it all in by the Lake. In Tahoe, there are plenty of beaches and piers to sit or stroll by the water and feel the winter magic.

Bonus: Dozens of movies have been filmed around Tahoe, including “True Lies” (1994), “Jack Frost” (1998), “Into the Wild” (2007), and most recently “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022). Just be careful while trying to do your own stunts like Tom Cruise.

Our travel tips: Yosemite gets so busy during the summer that the park has started requiring reservations to drive in during the peak months. Though far fewer people come during the winter, the school vacation weeks around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's will be more crowded.

Yosemite Valley Road and Wawona Road are open during the winter, and you can use the Big Oak Flat Entrance , Arch Rock Entrance , South Entrance and Hetch Hetchy Entrance to enter the national park.

However, Tioga Pass Entrance and several other Sierra Mountain pass roads are closed, so you will have to take a slightly longer route to get to Tahoe. You can find detailed information on the entrances to Yosemite National Park and their seasonal availability by clicking here .

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe

2. Road Trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton and Jackson Hole, WY

6 hours 30 minutes (360 miles)

Why you should visit: With its mix of steam and snow, Yellowstone in the winter is like an American version of Iceland. Bordered by the dramatic profile of the Grand Teton Mountains in the south, this trip makes for an epic and adventurous winter road trip .

The main drag of Jackson Hole, with its Old West façades set against the towering Tetons, is rustic any time of the year. It also makes for a cozy home base from where you can explore two fantastic national parks, ski the surrounding slopes, and return for evenings by the fireside.

How to get there: Begin your trip by following I-15 N and US Route 30 E for 171 miles to Soda Springs, ID. From there, Take Idaho Route 34 E to US Route 89 N. After Hoback, WY, US-89 merges with US Route 191 N and heads to Jackson Hole. US-191 N continues on to Grand Teton and Yellowstone to the north.

Our highlights: Winter road closures throughout Yellowstone might sound like a bummer until you hear that from mid-December to mid-March you can see Old Faithful and other natural wonders via snowmobile tour! The park website has more details and a list of authorized tour companies.

While you aren't allowed to enter any of the hot springs within Yellowstone, mostly so that you don't become a human lobster, there are nearby places like Chico, Fairmont, and Montana Hot Springs where you can take a relaxing dip as you watch the flakes fall.

In the Grand Teton National Park, go on a guided snowshoeing hike with a park Ranger who can give you ample insight into the park's winter inhabitants and rhythms.

Elks have a large presence in Jackson Hole. Nearby you can visit the National Elk Refuge which was sent up in 1912 to protect one of the largest herds left in the continental US. Even downtown you'll be reminded that you're in elk country by the four arches of antlers welcoming people to Jackson Town Square.

During the winter months, it's great to have some indoor activities on the itinerary as well. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson- the building is a piece of art in itself and its collection is impressive.

Yellowstone contains the largest geyser in the world, named Steamboat. Water from this geyser's eruptions can reach 380 ft. While not as regular as Old Faithful, it has erupted quite often since 2018. Catching one during a clear winter's day would be the experience of a lifetime.

Our travel tips: For an even more spectacular drive from Salt Lake City, take Utah Route 89. It branches off just before Brigham City and is also known as the Logan Canyon Scenic Byway. Get on Route 91 in Logan then head north, over the Idaho border, to connect back with I-15.

Road access within Grand Tetons is limited during the winter months. The only road open year-round stretches between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park

3. Road Trip from Boston to Portland, ME and Acadia National Park, ME

5 hours (280 miles)

Why you should visit: The drive from Boston to Portland is a trip where the snow meets the sea: you'll find the area dotted with dozens of photo ops and full of romantic spots to walk mitten in mitten.

While many people consider doing a Northeastern coastal trip during the summer or fall, a trip during the winter months has its own rewards. Explore the mystic quiet of Maine's vast forests and rugged coast under a glistening bed of snow.

How to get there: Take US Route 1 N from Boston, then hop on I-295 north for 90 miles to Portland, ME. Once you've explored Portland, continue on I-295 towards Bangor, ME. Then take US Route 1A E and Maine Route 3 E to Mount Desert Island which contains Acadia National Park.

Our highlights: In the first stop in Portland, make sure you see the iconic Portland Head Light, with its red roof and whitewashed walls blending into snow drifts. It is also Maine's oldest lighthouse, built in 1791, and one of Portland's major attractions of any season.

In case you are open to suspending incredulity, visit the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland where you can learn more about the Sasquatch, Nessie, and other mythical beasts as the frigid winds blow outside.

Winter is a great time to explore Acadia National Park by cross-country skis or snowshoes. There are 45 miles of carriage roads to choose your own adventure through this stunning park.

The next day, try your luck with ice fishing on Jordan Pond or simply go there to take in the winter scenery. There is also a 3.5-mile loop that will work up some body heat and reward you with even more beautiful views.

In case you can't quite part with your car's heater, but you'd still like to enjoy stunning coastal views from within Acadia National Park, take Schooner Head Road south of Bar Harbor and cruise along Ocean Drive for a few miles until Otter Cliff Road takes you back to Route 3.

Bonus: The temporary Glacier Ice Bar and Lounge is constructed every winter out of 20,000 lbs. of crystal-like ice. Sip a Snow Ball Martini or a hot cider with a little something extra and admire crystalline ice sculptures while meeting some hearty locals.

Our travel tips: Severe storms and road maintenance can affect I-295 so check for any closures before you leave. Please also note that, If you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, keep in mind that vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Boston to Portland, Maine

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Get some mountain air

Nowhere feels more suited to the winter snow than the mountains. The crisp air, stunning views, and of course winter sports excitement all await you on the following trips.

4. Road Trip from Denver to Aspen and Breckenridge Resort, Colorado

4 hours 20 minutes (180 miles)

Why you should visit: These are two of the premier skiing locations in Colorado, if not the entire US, so they make an obvious choice for a winter trip.

Even if winter sports aren't your thing, the chance to breathe pine-scented air, letting your inner child play in the powdery snow, and snuggling up by a crackling fire are deserving reasons to make this short and rewarding drive from Denver.

How to get there: From Denver, hop on I-70 W and follow it until you reach Colorado Route 9 S to Breckenridge. From here to Aspen, follow CO-9 back to I-70 and follow that until you get to Copper Mountain, and follow Colorado state highways to Aspen.

Our highlights: With 5 major peaks and 34 chairlifts, Breckenridge will spoil any skier or snowboarder for choice. Beginners can check out Frontier or Springmeier runs and more advanced folks can head to Centennial or even one of the double black diamond runs such as the Whale Tail.

Here you can also go dog sledding with some huggable huskies! We recommend a tour which winds through the dazzling Swan River Valley.

Once you move on to Aspen you can sing your favorite winter tunes as you skate around the Ice Garden, just don't pull anything as you attempt that triple axel.

Bundle up and go for a hike on Smuggler Mountain Trail to get a great view of Aspen surrounded by powered mountains and evergreen forests.

Downtown Aspen looks like it could be the setting of a winter fairy tale and some buildings hint at its 19th-century past as a silver mining town. Wander the streets after the fresh snow to take in the glittering window displays and try some of Aspen's world-class culinary offerings.

Aspen receives around 300 inches of snow a year and its most popular skiing area, Snowmass, covers over 3,000 acres, so there's little wonder why so many snow sports enthusiasts flock here every year.

Our travel tips: Since this is a mountain drive, it would be best if you had an AWD vehicle with winter tires. Click here to learn more about the potential challenges you can face on a drive from Denver to Aspen.

The trip from Breckenridge to Aspen is particularly scenic, so take some extra time to stop at lookout points and admire the alpine views.

5. Road Trip from Phoenix, AZ to Santa Fe and Taos Ski Resort, NM

9 hours 20 minutes (600 miles)

Why you should visit: This road trip takes you from the lap of the Sonora Desert to the snow-dusted Sangre de Cristo range in northern New Mexico, offering plenty of breathtaking scenery along the way.

Given the extreme summer temperatures, winter is the best time to cruise through the Southwest and actually be able to explore without risking heat stroke. At the destination, you will be dazzled with an ideal winter landscape surrounded by fir and pine trees along the slopes of Taos Ski Valley.

How to get there: From Phoenix, navigate to I-40 E in Holbrook and take this all the way to Albuquerque. There, change onto I-25 N to Santa Fe. After seeing the sights or staying the night, follow New Mexico Routes 84 and 68 to Rancho de Taos, then take New Mexico Route 240 E to Route 150 N and into the mountains of Taos.

Our highlights: While we still recommend seeing all the top attractions in Santa Fe, such as the Santa Fe Plaza, Museum of International Folk Art, and Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, this is the best time to explore the area's exciting outdoor offerings like the Atalya and La Cuchara trails in the surrounding hills.

Even though you might be thinking of Taos as your main destination to have fun in the snow, the hills around Santa Fe can get hundreds of inches of snowfall every year. Join many locals and enjoy a sleigh or toboggan ride in Hyde Memorial State Park and Aspen Vista.

Once you get to Taos, if you're rearing to hit the slopes, you have a few excellent options at your feet. From the Taos Ski Valley itself to the nearby Angel Fire Resort, you will have plenty of opportunities to shred that powder and catch some air.

Taos' exquisite hills perfect for skiing aren't its only attraction. This town's vibrant mix of cultures, from the Pueblo Native American inhabitants to early 17th-century colonial Spanish influence can all be explored in the winter months as well.

A must-see is the nearby Taos Pueblo which is over 1,000 years old and both a National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bonus: There's nothing quite like being surrounded by cool air and immersed in balmy waters. Did you know there are several hot springs around Taos? Stagecoach Hot Springs, a few miles northwest of Taos, and the more accessible Black Rock Hot Springs are good options.

Stagecoach Hot Springs is also known as Manby Hot Springs after a British explorer with quixotic dreams. He started to build a world-class resort at the springs named after him in 1922, which he was going to bill as the Lost Springs of the Aztec, but the project was never meant to be.

You can still see some ruins of bathhouse walls at the Stagecoach Hot Springs while you soak your bones and listen to lore from the locals.

Our travel tips: While most people say they don't need tire chains like in the Sierras, since you will be in mountainous terrain, an AWD vehicle would be preferable for this trip. Be sure to check any weather advisories before you go.

Santa Fe is quite popular in the winter - as is Taos - so make sure to make your bookings well in advance.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to Santa Fe

Enjoy a festive dose of retail therapy

Why not turn the stress of holiday shopping into a grand, and even romantic, adventure? You can stock up on presents to surprise your loved ones or treat yourself to a much-deserved retail therapy and festive decorations after a long drive.

6. Road trip loop from Burlington, VT to Jackson, NH, Woodstock, VT, and back

7 hours 30 minutes (360 miles)

Why you should visit: Get ready for a trip through a storybook winter wonderland! Vermont and New Hampshire embrace the winter season like few other states in America.

Even though the fall trip to Vermont is on many a bucket list, we think a winter trip should be on there as well. Exceptional winter road maintenance and infrastructure make this a great place to drive safely and enjoy winter scenery to the fullest.

How to get there: From Burlington, take I-89 S until the exit for Vermont Route 100 N towards Stowe, VT. Continue along VT-100 N and Vermont Route 15 E to I-93 in St. Johnsbury. Look for the intersection with US Route 302 E, which will take you through Bethlehem and Bartlett to Glen, where there's just a short drive up New Hampshire Route 16 to get to Jackson.

Once you're done exploring Jackson, follow the route back to Glen and take US-302 towards Conway, NH. From there, take New Hampshire Route 112 W to Mt. Moosilauke, then navigate I-91 S to Woodstock. To get back to Burlington, follow Vermont Route 12 N to I-89 N.

Our highlights: Just before Jackson, you'll pass through the White Mountain National Forest. After putting on plenty of layers and glancing at the weather conditions, this national forest offers hikes that even beginners can enjoy in the winter. The Lonesome Lake is very accessible, as is the Mount Willard hike, which offers magnificent views over the snowy landscape.

In Jackson, North Hampshire, get ready for some true winter magic at Nestlenook Farm. Here you can ride in a custom-made Austrian horse-drawn sleigh, ice skate on an idyllic pond, go snowshoeing through the surrounding evergreen forest, and then return for a fireside drink at the old estate.

For those who like a little more adrenaline on their trip to Jackson, great skiing for people of all skill levels can be found at Wildcat Mountain and Attitash Mountain Resort.

Woodstock is a classic New England village that evokes Hallmark imagery when enveloped in the winter frost. It boasts architectural styles spanning from Georgian to Greek Revival.

Wander the adorable downtown full of holiday cheer or visit the impressive mansion at Marsh–Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to learn more about local conservation efforts. For the outdoorsy type, you can ice skate or even try your luck at ice fishing on Silver Lake.

Vermont has the highest density of covered bridges in all of the US and boasts over 100 throughout the state. Two cute bridges can be found near Woodstock: the Middle Covered Bridge and the Taftsville Covered Bridge.

These highly photogenic locations would make for a great personalized winter greeting card to send to your friends and family.

Our travel tips: As with any road trip, you will want to make sure your vehicle is in top-notch condition before you hit the highway. Given the extreme winter weather of the Northeast, make sure to pack warm clothing, water, snacks, and a blanket for the road.

If you are planning to spend more time in Vermont, we recommend checking our ultimate guide on the stunning road trip on Vermont Route 100 for more ideas.

7. New York City, New York

(Travel time will vary)

Why you should visit: The buzz of holiday excitement starts with Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and doesn't let up till the first days of the New Year. Whenever you decide to make your trip, you're sure to feel the magic. It's New York City, need we say more?

While all five boroughs have their own take on the holidays, none are as full of holiday cheer and glittering storefront displays as Manhattan, where most of our highlights below are located.

How to get there: In case you'd like to get a taste of gorgeous Upstate New York, take a short day trip to Beacon, NY or combine this trip with the Catskills and Hudson Valley trip we've laid out below.

Beacon is 68 miles north of NYC and will take about an hour and a half to drive, mostly along New York Route 9 and the Palisades Interstate Pkwy, crossing over the Hudson River using the Bear Mountain Bridge.

Our highlights: No shopping trip to Manhattan is complete without a stop by Rockefeller Center. We think it's worthwhile to brave the crowds in order to experience one of the world's premier retail destinations.

A must-see a few blocks over is the classic window display at Saks Fifth Avenue. Another store you can't miss is Bloomingdales, which looks like it was constructed to be a dazzling temple to Christmas itself.

To shop like a local, journey to one of NYC's outdoor winter markets. In Bryant Park, there's the Bank of America Winter Village with over 170 shops and vendors, as well as free ice skating. Another option is the Makers Show at City Point where you can find a truly unique gift or souvenir for yourself.

Especially for couples, a horse-drawn carriage ride around the iconic Central Park will be a unique and romantic way to see the sights while listening to the friendly trot of a Clydesdale. It would be good to book this equine adventure online ahead of time.

In case you'd like to ice skate in the city and skip the crowds, head to Central Park or Brookfield Plaza to glide along, hand in hand.

Even though many of the classic NYC holiday sights are in Manhattan, there are still four other boroughs to explore. Take a peek at the elaborate decorations in Brooklyn's Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display which you can also explore by bus tour if you've had too much eggnog.

Bonus: Catch the Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Plaza. This is the heart of the holidays in NYC and has been a cherished tradition since 1933. This 70 ft. tall and immaculately decorated tree, topped with a Swarovski Star, is sure to give you an idea or two for your own holiday decorations.

Our travel tips: If you are more interested in simply seeing NYC in the snow, or late winter is the only time you have to make the trip, aim to go in January or February for some of the cheapest rates on flights and hotels.

If you'd like to learn more about the best areas to stay in NYC to plan your trip accordingly, please check our detailed guide below:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

Enjoy some festive, small-town charm

No matter where you grew up, most likely when you imagine the winter holidays, scenes of snow-covered roofs, frozen lakes, and cozy shops glowing with candlelight fill your mind. Why not experience the frosty winter holiday of your dreams and try out one of the following trips?

8. Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Elkhart Lake

2 hours 30 minutes (150 miles)

Why you should visit: This is a great day trip to experience a bit of winter in the countryside or could be turned into a romantic weekend getaway where you can cozy up at a lakeside lodge.

While you may have enjoyed this beautiful lake during the verdant summer months, a whole different kind of merriment can be found in this charming lakeside town as the snowflakes glisten and the lake freezes over.

How to get there: From Chicago, take I-90 W, which merges with I-94 W. Follow that through Milwaukee where you will get on I-43 N. Exit in Saukville and continue north on Wisconsin Route 57 N to Elkhart Lake.

Our highlights: The Village Square in Elkhart is beyond adorable in the wintertime and there are great boutique shopping opportunities as well as plenty of places to try local microbrews paired with a warm pretzel.

Bundle up and enjoy the fresh air lakeside. Around Elkhart Lake, there are trails to walk, snowshoe, or even take a horse-drawn carriage around this winter wonderland.

When it's freezing outside, what could be better than a Fish Fry! Make a reservation and head out to the Quit Qui Oc Golf Course on a Friday night to try their delicious Perch Dinner or All-You-Can-Eat Bluegill.

Treat any winter stiffness at the Aspira Spa located in the impressive Osthoff Resort. Situated in a peaceful cedar forest and using water from a nearby spring, here you can get an individual or couples massage or simply relax in a steamy sauna as the winter frost outside does its own thing.

Bonus: For over 20 years, Elkhart has hosted the Old World Christmas Market for over ten days in early December. Vendors come from all over the world to show their wares.

From Central European blown-glass ornaments to hand-painted Russian dolls and German nutcrackers, there is sure to be a finely crafted and eye-catching piece just for you.

Our travel tips: The winter roads can be icy, hazardous, and vary dramatically, so be sure to check for any alerts. In case you'd like to improve your confidence driving in freezing conditions, the well-known Road America racetrack in Elkhart has a highly recommended Winter Driving School.

9. Road Trip from Atlanta, GA to Nashville and Franklin, TN

4 hours 30 minutes (270 miles)

Why you should visit: Nashville is always a kick but in the winter, they take it up a notch and really get into the holiday spirits, with music, lights, and Southern charm.

Both Nashville and nearby Franklin embody the warmth of spirit which makes the coldest time of year so merry. If you're still feeling the cold in your bones, then there are plenty of distilleries to sip whiskey and warm yourself up from the inside out.

How to get there: To reach Nashville from Atlanta head north on Interstate 75 N and change onto Interstate 24 W Chattanooga. Take I-24 W all the way to Nashville. From there, follow Interstate 65 south to Franklin.

Our highlights: See Nashville at its winter best, along with some of the well-known music stops like the Johnny Cash Museum, by riding the Old Town Trolley.

The Dancing Lights of Christmas in Nashville is the perfect holiday attraction to enjoy from your car. The light-strewn streets will flicker to the beat of classic Christmas songs you can tune into on your car radio.

Some people might know Franklin from its prominent Civil War history. Learn more about the intense battles that were waged here by going on a guided tour at Carter House or the Lotz House Museum across the street.

Just outside of Franklin there is an equally adorable village called Leiper's Fork. This quintessential small country community is full of friendly people, boutique stores, art galleries, a distillery, and in the center of the village at Fox & Locke you can catch plenty of live music.

Bonus: If you come in early December, you can catch a unique and festive pop-up event in Nashville: Porter Flea Market. This heated, indoor, winter market features 200 diverse vendors and there's even a 21+ preview event. You'll need to book tickets online, ahead of time.

Our travel tips: Even though it's nothing like the Northeast, winters in Tennessee can be quite chilly and it occasionally snows in Nashville, so make sure to bring plenty of layers.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Atlanta to Nashville

10. Road Trip from Baltimore, MA to Bernville and Bethlehem, PA

3 hours 10 minutes (165 miles)

Why you should visit: Both Bethlehem and Bernville have a strong connection to the most wonderful time of the year. Bethlehem is even nicknamed Christmas City USA and regularly makes it to “must-see holiday destination” lists.

The scenic and sometimes Old World feel of eastern Pennsylvania makes for a classic winter trip already. Paired with these two jolly towns during holidays, it is a hard trip to pass up.

How to get there: Drive north from Baltimore towards York via Interstate 83 N. From there, head east on US Route 30 and 222 to Bernville. Once you've seen the sights there, drive north to Shartlesville, where you'll link up with Interstate 78 E which will take you to Bethlehem.

Our highlights: Bernville's top attraction is Koziar's Christmas Village. This life-sized Christmas diorama is a throwback with thousands of fairy lights, retro decorations, and cutesy stalls. Reconnect with your inner child and all the excitement that Christmas brings.

Bethlehem got its name on Christmas Eve in 1741 when a group of Moravians christened their new town. It was so spirited that it earned the town the name Bethlehem.

You can still see hints of this central European heritage at the Moravian Book Shop, which was established in 1745, making it one of the oldest bookshops in the world.

Once in Bethlehem take a tour of the historic town led by costumed and knowledgeable guides on the Christmas City Stroll.

Later, peruse hundreds of dazzling, hand-blown ornaments and Moravian glass Christmas stars at Bethlehem's Christkindlmarkt Holiday Market. The market is open for a few select dates in November and December, check the town's website for more information.

Participate with the locals in a unique Bethlehem offering: a Live Advent Calendar. Every evening on Main Street a new surprise is revealed amidst trombone choirs and general jubilation.

One of the coolest and most intriguing Bethlehem stops in any season is the multi-purpose SteelStack, housed in a former industrial area that contains the monumental blast furnaces of the old Bethlehem Steel Plant. Come here for music, a museum, food, brews, and festivities.

Our travel tips: Given the common theme of Bethlehem being the place for Christmas, you'd better book your hotel earlier if you plan on coming during December.

11. Road Trip around the Catskills and Hudson Valley, NY

7 hours 10 minutes (320 miles)

Why you should visit: The Catskill Mountain ranges in Upstate New York are both a summer playground and winter wonderland for people to take a break from the city and be refreshed by the grace of nature.

Winding roads through dormant forests and a dramatic stretch along the Hudson, where you will pass ice-covered cliffs make this a surprisingly scenic winter getaway.

How to get there: From Beacon, NY head north along Highway 9 past Staatsburg until you hit Rhinebeck. From there head east, then north to connect with the Taconic State Parkway and make your way to Stockbridge, MA.

Begin making a look by heading west on I-90 until you cross the Hudson River and change onto I-87 south, following the river until you'll hop onto NY Route 212 before Saugerties to get to Woodstock, NY.

From Woodstock, wind your way west to Callicoon, then south along NY Route 97 towards Sparrow Bush. Get onto I-84 west until Mechanicstown, NY, where you'll take NY Routes 6 and 17 to Bear Mountain State Park.

Our highlights: This trip has the option to pass through Stockbridge, MA and we heartily recommend spending some time here. The town itself is full of historic charm and there's a Norman Rockwell Museum with the largest collection of this American painter's pieces.

Woodstock has some notable religious architecture including the wooden Holy Transfiguration Church, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, and a Dharmachakra Tibetan Monastery. The austerity of the colder months compliments the mystique of these spiritual refuges.

Between Catskill, NY and Callicoon, NY you pass a variety of state parks and forests where you can hike along a quiet trail and catch glimpses of frozen falls and streams. One of the most iconic waterfalls in the area, Kaaterskill Falls, becomes an otherworldly cascade of icicles in the depths of winter.

The Overlook Mountain trail is a relatively easy hike near Woodstock which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. If you come after fresh snow, you will be welcomed by a powdery landscape full of glistening branches.

We haven't forgotten the skiers on this trip and the Catskills are home to some of the best skiing spots in New York. North and west of Woodstock you will find great slopes at Belleayre, Hunter Mountain Resort, and Windham Mountain.

Towards the end of your trip, the rolling hills of Bear Mountain State Park offer ample opportunities for winter adventure including sledding, cross-country skiing, and even ice skating on the park's own outdoor rink.

Bonus: If you check the almanac and time your trip just right, try to be in Stockbridge for a full moon. Hilltop Orchards offers a guided snowshoe trek under the lunar light which culminates in a bonfire! Magical doesn't even begin to describe it.

Our travel tips: In the event of an unexpected blizzard, be sure to have an extra blanket, water, and even some gravel or road salt in case you're trying to navigate a smaller country road that has iced over.

12. Road Trip from Asheville, NC to Williamsburg, VA

9 hours 50 minutes (520 miles)

Why you should visit: Would you like to experience a variety of winter landscapes in one fantastic drive? This winding route takes you from Appalachian Mountain County to coastal Williamsburg near the opening of Chesapeake Bay.

Part of this route covers the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America's Favorite Drive.” It is breathtaking in every season and hardly the only highlight of this interstate trip through exquisite nature and colonial American heritage.

How to get there: From Asheville, head towards the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and go north. We suggest stopping at the Chestoa View and Round Meadow Overlooks along the way.

Continue heading towards Roanoke and drive northeast on Interstate 81 until you reach Staunton, then hop on Interstate 64 E. In case you wanted to see Shenandoah National Park, look for signs or Skyline Dr. in Afton. Otherwise, stay on the I-64 past Richmond until you reach Williamsburg.

Our highlights: For anyone who loves the great outdoors, some time spent exploring the beautiful trails of Shenandoah National Park is a must. Particularly in the winter, when the trees have shed their leaves, the mountain views are more open than ever.

Colonial Williamsburg is actually an open-air museum. One of the most spectacular heritage properties in Williamsburg is the Governor's Palace. A recreation of the 18th-century Virginia Governor's Mansion, originally built by the British, then destroyed and rebuilt in 1934. In wintertime, the surrounding gardens take on a storybook quality when dusted with snow.

See Colonial Williamsburg as the gentry of yesteryear saw it, atop a horse-drawn carriage. While carriages operate year-round, they are dependent on the weather and tickets are best purchased early on the day you wish to go.

For a bit of afternoon or evening fun, go ice skating at Liberty Ice Pavilion then find a tasty treat or warm drink at the quaint and festive Merchant's Square across the street.

In case you want to escape the cold and enjoy a convivial environment, check out one of Williamsburg's theaters, comedy clubs, or even the symphony and enjoy a night out.

Are you interested in meeting the ghost of Christmas past? You have a good chance at Peyton Randolph House in Williamsburg. Originally built in 1715, it is rumored to be haunted and is home to frequent ghost sightings.

Our travel tips: In case the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed for any reason, or if you just want to make this a more direct trip, you can take the I-40 to Greensboro, then take I-85 to Richmond where you'll meet up with I-64.

13. Road Trip from San Diego, CA to Grand Canyon, AZ

10 hours 40 minutes (690 miles)

Why you should visit: This trip passes through an unforgettable desert landscape, including Joshua Tree National Park, and brings you to one of the greatest natural wonders in the whole country, the Grand Canyon.

As you can imagine, the Southwest can get pretty toasty in the summer months, so the winter is a great time to drive the desert and take a canyon hike in more temperate weather. There's nothing quite like breathing in the cool morning air, scented with sage, and gazing out over a natural wonder carved over millions of years.

How to get there: To reach the Grand Canyon from San Diego , head north towards Riverside, then hop on Interstate 10 E to Highway 62 in order to see Joshua Tree National Park. Once you've explored this picturesque park, get back to I-10 and drive towards Phoenix, AZ.

There, you'll start heading north along Interstate 17 towards Flagstaff. Continue north, taking I-40 to US Route 64 just before Williams and that will take you into the southern entrance to Grand Canyon National Park.

Our highlights: While in America's most popular National Park, explore the South Rim, including the ever-photogenic Yavapai Point or Mather Point. Here you can see layer upon layer of geological history revealed on the canyon walls. The Yavapai Geology Museum is also open for limited hours (9 am-5 pm) during the winter season.

After you've taken the compulsory canyon selfie, take a drive along Hermit Road to the Hermit Trailhead. From March to November, this road is closed to private vehicles, so this is a unique opportunity to make this scenic drive through the southern part of the canyon.

For more car-based exploration, follow the scenic Desert View Drive to the breathtaking Grandview Point, explore the 800-year-old Tusayan Ruin, and a little further on you'll encounter the Desert View Watchtower.

Most of the trails in Grand Canyon National Park are still open during the winter. Even though the days are shorter, you won't face the searing mid-day heat.

Try the South Kaibab Trail which follows a ridgeling with amazing views or do the Canyon's most popular Bright Angel Trail down to the Colorado River, just watch out for ice near the top of the canyon.

Bonus: It snows in the Grand Canyon! Even though it is no guarantee and there are also many clear, sunny days, in the months of January and February it is not uncommon to see the iconic canyon landscape transformed into a snowy wonderland overnight.

Our travel tips: In addition to passing through Joshua Tree National Park, this route also has the possibility to stop and explore Coconino National Forest between Phoenix and Flagstaff.

One minor drawback to visiting the Grand Canyon in winter is that the North Rim area of the park is closed to vehicles in the winter. In case you still wanted to camp, Mather Campground is open in this season.

As the only campground open, however, it would be best to make your reservations in advance. Also, pack plenty of layers to accommodate the variable weather.

In case you needed yet another reason to visit during the winter, this time of year enjoys far fewer crowds, and the sun rises quite a bit later (around 7am), so it will be easier getting up to take that epic sunrise picture.

READ MORE - Road Trip from San Diego to Grand Canyon

Escape the cold with some winter sun

Do you simply think snow is overrated? On these trips ditch the heavy coat and get ready to enjoy some vivifying solar rays. From cool white sandy beaches and turquoise waters to world-famous landmarks, our suggested trips have it all!

14. Road Trip from Miami to Key West, FL

3 hours 10 minutes (170 miles)

Why you should visit: This is your chance to have a truly tropical winter trip without needing to fly. The warm, sandy beaches and turquoise waters will have you thinking winter is a million miles away.

Key West is a quirky, tiny, island full of conch (pronounced “con-k”) shells and delectable key lime pie. If you need a little boost to get over the winter blues, then this is a road trip for you.

How to get there: From Miami head south along the Overseas Highway (US-1) all the way to Key West for an unforgettable drive bordered on both sides by the ocean blue.

Our highlights: While in Key West, be sure to spend at least one evening at Mallory Square and enjoy the Sunset Celebration with plenty of local artisans and upbeat music befitting the island vibe of the Keys.

Get a little adventure in on this trip and paddleboard through one of the most unique ecosystems in the world- a mangrove. In this shallow water forest, you can see plenty of wildlife and learn from knowledgeable guides why the mangroves are key to coastal preservation.

What's a trip to Key West without a beach day? Sunbathe, snorkel, or sit with a good book feeling the warm sand between your toes at Higgs Beach or Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Then travel all the way to the southernmost point of the continental USA and get a picture with the giant buoy marking this special spot.

Finally, enjoy the local flavors at Blue Haven, which feels like it's been plucked straight from the Caribbean, or get some authentic Cuban fare at El Siboney.

One of America's literary giants, Ernest Hemingway, lived and worked in Key West in the 1930s. His former home is now a museum and one of the area's most popular attractions.

Here you can also pet one of the dozens of six-toed, or “polydactyl,” cats that are said to be descended from Hemingway's own furry friend named Snow White.

Our travel tips: Winter is Key West's peak tourist season, so budget accordingly and expect a few crowds. The well-known Duval Street can get pretty rowdy at night, so visit during the day if you're not in a party mood.

To learn more about the drive from Miami to Key West, you can check our detailed guide out.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Miami to Key West

15. Road Trip from San Francisco to Solvang, CA

6 hours 30 minutes (340 miles)

Why you should visit: Solvang was born when Midwesterners of Danish descent grew tired of harsh winters and purchased a large ranch in the early 20th century. From fairytale-like Danish architecture to delicious wines, Solvang will delight every visitor.

This town has such a Danish draw that even Prince Henrik of Denmark visited it in 2011. We suggest you do too if you'd like to live it up like a member of the Danish royal family.

How to get there: There are several options for this route, but we recommend taking CA Highway 101 south, through the Salinas Valley and San Luis Obispo, all the way to Solvang.

Our highlights: One of the best things to do in Solvang is simply wandering around and taking in the unique architectural sights, from the outdoor Solvang Festival Theater to Hamlet Square and the towering windmill.

In Solvang, there's a quaint museum dedicated to the Danish author Hans Christian Anderson, who has illuminated the imaginations of children all over the globe. For any lovers of literature, this is likely to be the trip's highlight.

On a sunny Californian winter day, a biking tour of the surrounding wineries would be divine. Rusack Vineyards is a popular winery with some stellar reds such as their Pinot Noir and Syrah. There are options for renting regular bikes as well as e-bikes downtown.

Before the deluge of Danes into this Californian valley, it was a site of Spanish Colonialism and you can still see this heritage at the Mission Santa Inez, built in 1804. While this is a much more typical Californian sight if you haven't seen one of the missions, we definitely think you should visit while you're here.

Bonus: Even though the climate of Southern California couldn't be more different than that of the frosty Nordic lands, a warm pastry is welcomed in any weather.

There are five authentic Danish bakeries in Solvang, so hop on a bike and see for yourself which one makes the most delectable cheese danish or crumbly kringle.

Our travel tips: In case you really wanted to make this an unforgettable and awesome Californian coastal road trip, we recommend that you take CA Highway 1 all the way from San Francisco to Solvang, through stunning Big Sur and along pristine Pismo Beach .

If you cannot get enough of winter sun and calm beaches, here is our ultimate guide to the best beaches on the Pacific Coast Highway for inspiration!

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Related posts

The Absolute Best Winter Road Trips in the USA

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: October 14, 2022

Categories Destinations , road trips , Travel Inspiration , Travel Tips , United States , Winter Activities

The iconic American road trip is generally a summer affair, thanks in part, to rock n’ roll, convertibles, and school vacations.

Winter provides a totally different road-trip scene – perhaps a bit less romantic, but just as exciting. Winter road trips in the USA generally involve a lot less traffic, fewer crowds, and probably an extra bag full of warm coats in the trunk.

Of course, there are a whole lot of American destinations where winter temperatures are much less extreme than in the summer. And plenty more USA road trips where snow tires are a requirement in the winter.

The path you choose for your winter road trip is yours alone, but we can certainly make some suggestions.

Ready to find your winter adventure on the open road? These are the best winter road trips in the USA, perfect for a long weekend getaway or a midweek escape.

But, first, make sure you and your car are ready for your winter road trip with our winter driving survival guide.

Table of Contents

Warm Winter Road Trips in the USA to Escape the Cold

Cold winter temperatures got you down? Sounds like you’re ready for a southern vacation!

Time to dust off that swimsuit and head to where the weather suits your clothes. These are the best winter road trips to escape the cold in the United States.

Take a Louisiana Road Trip: New Orleans and the Bayou

-by Jen Ambrose and Ryan Victor of Passions and Places

Since winter in Louisiana means 70 degrees and sunny (and since it’s unbearably hot during most of the year), the winter months are the perfect time for a winter road trip. Begin your trip in vibrant New Orleans, then meander around the bayou for a more rural experience.

First, spend a couple of days eating, sightseeing, and exploring a city that’s unlike any other in the United States. Get acquainted with the city by booking a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . This 1.5-hour tour will show you the most important sites, including the French Market, Jackson Square, and the Garden District.

Here are a few more New Orleans adventures that you won’t want to miss:

Commander’s Palace: You may book a table at Commander’s Palace because it’s the most famous spot to eat in New Orleans, but you will love the food. Try the signature turtle soup and a martini.

Take a ghost tour: New Orleans is absolutely haunted, and if you’re not afraid of ghosts, you will absolutely want to take a spooky ghost tour , where you’ll learn about the fantastically scary history of this historic city.

Head to the Palace Market at night: This is the craziest night market in New Orleans and a fun place to people-watch and listen to live jazz.

Head to the Bayou! After leaving New Orleans, explore some of the rural towns that make this area so special.

Basing yourself in Houma or Thibodaux will give you some insight into everyday life in small-town Louisiana, and it’ll be easy to make the drive down to Cocodrie, a tiny town where most of the houses are built on stilts.

Just a couple of hours away, Lafayette is the heart of Cajun and Creole country, and you’ll be able to learn all about the area’s history at multiple museums and cultural centers. If you have time, you can also take a day trip to St. Martinville, Henderson, Erath, or one of several other nearby towns.

On the way back to New Orleans, stop in Louisiana’s capital of Baton Rouge. You can go up to the top of the country’s tallest capitol building and don’t miss the museum housed in Louisiana’s Old State Capitol.

Read more about this winter road trip in Louisiana on Passions and Places. 

Where to Stay on Your Winter Road Trip in Louisiana: We recommend basing yourself in Houma because there are so many affordable hotels to choose from. The Courtyard by Marriott in Houma has an onsite restaurant and an indoor pool. It’s perfect for families.

Discover Georgia and South Carolina on a Winter Road Trip

-by Margie DQ of DQ Family Travel

The southern states of Georgia and South Carolina are great destinations for your winter road trip. Although snow and cold temperatures are possible, the weather is usually mild in the winter. Start the road trip in Atlanta , a fantastic city to visit and explore.

Visitors to Atlanta will enjoy the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Park, touring CNN Studios, and visiting the College Football Hall of Fame.

Less than two hours away, is the quaint German city of Helen. Yes, it is true that there is a little Bavarian village nestled in the mountains of northern Georgia. Not only will visitors enjoy walking the charming downtown area, but there are a number of scenic waterfall hikes less than 5 minutes away.

Another two hours away is the next stop on your winter road trip, Greenville, South Carolina. This city is an up-and-coming destination in the United States. The downtown area boasts several great restaurants, a fantastic children’s museum, and a beautiful waterfall park called Falls Park on the Reedy. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 20-mile paved biking and walking lane connecting Greenville and two smaller towns.

Charleston, South Carolina is a three-hour drive away from Greenville and is loaded with southern charm. Things to do here include walking the waterfront Battery to see Fort Sumter, visiting the Charleston Public Market, and touring a World War II aircraft and submarine in nearby Patriots’ Point.

Charleston has long been known as a foodie city and has numerous famous southern restaurants like Husk and Hominy Grill. A visit to a southern plantation is a nice idea for those wanting to know more about the way of life in the 19th century.

A little over 2 hours away is the small city of Savannah, Georgia. The walkable historic area oozes low-country style. Visitors can ride a paddleboat on the river, explore the many public squares and fountains, and tour famous houses from the colonial period. Heading back to Atlanta is just under a four-hour drive from Savannah.

Where to Stay on your winter road trip through Georgia and South Carolina

Atlanta, Georgia : Hotel Claremont is a trendy hotel in a historic 1920s building. It’s just a mile from Piedmont Park and three miles from the gorgeous Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Helen, Georgia: Located right downtown, Heidi Motel is one of the most photographed buildings in Helen. Close to everything, this independently owned motel is such a gem!

Greenville, South Carolina: The Westin Poinsett has been upgraded and revitalized to offer four-star accommodations at an affordable price.

Charleston, South Carolina: The luxurious hotel experience at Emeline will have you singing winter’s praises all day long. Located in downtown Charleston with beautiful rooms and suites.

Savannah, Georgia: There are so many beautiful hotels in Savannah, but we love The Marshall House , voted the best downtown hotel in Savannah in 2021. Splurge on a balcony room for views of the city.

Winter Road Trip in The Florida Keys

-by Halef of The Round the World Guys

Florida has long been a winter road trip destination for many Americans escaping the cold of the north. One of the best winter road trips in the USA is the Florida Key stretch, starting in Homestead, south of Miami. The ocean highway scenic journey to Key West takes about three hours from mainland Florida.

Key Largo is the first stop in your Florida Keys road trip. Here, you can find some of the best scuba diving destinations in the USA, as well as several great restaurants and pubs to get you in the island mood.

Several other possible pitstops include Islamorada, Marathon Key, and Duck Key. Finally, you’ll come to the end of Highway 1 in Key West. Key West is rich in history, natural beauty, and famous landmarks. You can visit the Southernmost Point Buoy and Historic Marker, Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Key West Lighthouse.

A great day excursion and a hidden gem in Florida is Dry Tortugas National Park . One of the most remote National Parks in the nation, these small islands are simply gorgeous. There is so much to do and to see here, starting from a guided tour of historic Fort Jefferson to kayaking or snorkeling in the turquoise waters around the islands.

It’s a trip you won’t soon forget.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys : We recommend a night or two in Key Largo and a night or two in Key West so you can turn this little road trip into a relaxing vacation. Key Largo hotels are on the pricey side, but the cottages at the Seafarer Resort and Beach are more affordable than many hotel rooms. The resort is family-owned with amazing views with a beach, kayaks, and fabulous snorkeling. 

There are some amazing and quite luxurious lodging choices in Key West, but a good mid-range hotel is the Best Western Hibiscus, which is just one block away from the famous Duval Street. It’s three blocks from the beach with a spacious outdoor pool. 

Visit the Desert Parks in California

-by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

California’s desert national and state parks make for a wonderful winter road trip. With pleasant daytime temperatures, you can get out of the car and explore the desert, whether it is through hiking a canyon or walking on sand dunes. The spectacular landscapes and amazing night skies will leave you spellbound.

Start this amazing winter road trip in Las Vegas, Nevada, a popular landing spot for both US and international travelers because of its proximity to many natural wonders. You can loop back to Vegas after you tour the parks, or end your trip in Los Angeles. From Las Vegas, head first to Death Valley National Park in southern California.

About 2.5 hours away from Vegas by road, Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Known for having recorded the hottest temperature ever on earth, Death Valley is very pleasant during the daytime in winter although it gets chilly at night.

At Death Valley National Park, you can walk on vast salt flats, photograph picture-perfect gold sand dunes, see the sunrise at the spectacular Zabriskie Point, and hike colorful canyons. Allow at least one full day to see the highlights. Spend the night in the park, or just outside it, where there are numerous lodging options to meet every budget.

Early the next day, drive to Palm Springs, California, about 5 hours away. In the afternoon, explore the city of Palm Springs, famous for its mid-century modern architecture and palm-lined main shopping street. Spend the night at Andreas Hotel and Spa, a luxurious Spanish Revival resort with amazing spa treatments and an outdoor pool. 

On day three, explore Anza Borrego State Park, about 90 minutes from Palm Springs. You will drive past the strange Salton Sea, a saltwater lake that seems to go on forever. At Anza Borrego, marvel at the huge metal sculptures strewn around the desert, hike through a slot canyon and enjoy a desert sunset.  Sleep in Palm Springs.

On the final day, get an early start for your day in Joshua Tree National Park, about an hour away.

There are tons of things to do in Joshua Tree! Do some rock scrambling on the gigantic boulders that Joshua Tree is known for. Watch expert rock climbers in action. Hike a trail or two. Admire the diverse plants in the park, including the strange Joshua tree for which the park is named.

Joshua Tree National Park is located not in one desert but two…the Mojave and the Colorado. At the end of the day, drive to Los Angeles, a little over 2 hours away, or back to Las Vegas.

Escape the Cold with a Winter Road Trip in Maui, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Maui has long been a tourist mecca, and for good reason too! With more than 120 miles of beautiful coastline, Maui draws crowds from all over the world. Would you believe, however, that most visitors to Hawaii’s second-largest island barely venture beyond the beach?

Now I’m not saying that the picturesque beaches are not something to ogle at, but there are so many other hidden gems just waiting to be discovered, and you may have to venture off the beaten path to get there.

One such gem is the lava fields of La Perouse Bay which, of course, requires a scenic road trip.

All roads lead to home, right? In this case, I would suggest starting in Kaanapali simply because all the fantastic resorts— such as the Marriott Maui Ocean Club —and restaurants here make for a great base of operations.

You can travel down highway 30. It will eventually turn to highway 3000 but will revert back to highway 30. Along the way, you will get to enjoy stunning views since the highway brushes right up against the coastline in many places. There are plenty of worthwhile detours too, such as the Launiupoko and Ukumehame Beach Parks, as well as the Maui Ocean Center. 

From Highway 30, you will turn onto Highway 310, which will turn into Highway 31 and will eventually turn into Makena Road. Of course, you can stop by Makena State Park on the way and experience the luster of one of the largest white sand beaches on the island.

Eventually, you will have to ditch the wheels since the road will eventually end and become a walking trail. As you walk across the jagged lava fields, keep in mind that you’re literally walking on history. The last lava flow in La Perouse Bay occurred way back in 1790.

Road Trip from Phoenix, Arizona to Las Vegas, Nevada

-by Jodie Dewberry of Ala Jode

A winter road trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas is a great way to combine some of the USA’s coolest spots in one long weekend – and enjoy some variety, too!

As soon as you head out of Phoenix, drive up through the stunning landscapes of Tonto National Forest or Prescott National Forest, before arriving at one of the natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. Stay here overnight near the South Rim and enjoy a sunset like no other.

In the morning, you’ll want to get up early to drive to the Havasupai Trailhead. If you want to attempt the Havasupai hike , you’ll need at least a full day because it takes around 5 hours each way.

Staying overnight at Havasu Falls is well worth it if you can get a spot – and the wintertime is pretty much the only time of year that’s possible! If you don’t fancy the hike, you can take a helicopter one way for around $100. It’s about a 4-hour drive from the Havasupai trailhead to Las Vegas.

Vegas is the kind of place everybody should visit at least once, and you’ll appreciate the extravagant hotel room (and bathtub!) even more after a night at Havasu Falls. Depending on how much time you have, spend at least one night enjoying the Vegas Strip and taking it all in.

Where to stay in the Grand Canyon: The Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn is just minutes from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon with expansive grounds, a gorgeous pool, and on-site dining.

Where to stay in Las Vegas:  There are so many lodging choices in Vegas, it’s hard to choose a favorite. I suggest staying right on the strip so you can walk around and take in the sites. Paris Las Vegas is quite posh for the price, with great dining options, fabulous views, and a massive pool. 

Embrace the Cold with these Beautiful Winter Road Trips in the USA

While some folks hope to escape the cold on their winter travels, others want to embrace it. The following destinations make the best winter road trips for folks who don’t mind snow or freezing temperatures. Some of these destinations are actually quite mild in the winter months – we just can’t make any promises.

Drive Route 100 in Vermont

Vermont’s longest state highway runs 216 miles from north to south, through the rugged Green Mountains. Route 100 is incredibly scenic and well-loved, meandering through small New England villages, the Green Mountain National Forest, and alongside a number of ski resorts and beautiful state parks. 

Along the way, you’ll find a wealth of recreation opportunities, not to mention fabulous shopping, dining, and lodging. It’s no wonder Yankee Magazine named Vermont’s route 100 one of the best summer road trips in New England.

Traveling route 100 in the winter is a bit more adventurous than in other seasons, but unless there’s a major snowstorm, the road is generally well-maintained throughout the winter. Begin your journey in the mountain village of Wilmington, just north of the Vermont-Massachusetts border.

Here you’ll find several boutiques, fabulous restaurants, and bed and breakfasts. Wilmington is a bit of a hub because of its proximity to Mt. Snow, which is one of Vermont’s best-loved ski resorts.

As you head north, be sure to stop in Weston, which is home to the world-famous Vermont Country Store. If you fancy a local microbrew with your view, check out Long Trail Brewing Company in Bridgewater Corners.

The farther north you travel, the more the mountains and forests will be covered in snow. Instead of shutting down for the winter season, Vermonters embrace it.

Waterbury, in the northern Green Mountains, is foodie heaven – home to Ben & Jerry’s, Cabot Cheese, Lake Champlain Chocolates, and Cold Hollow Cider. Spend some time here and indulge!

Explore the Red Rocks of Utah 

-by Jamie Joyner of Photo Jeepers

The adventure town of Moab, Utah is our favorite place to go for a weekend road trip in the winter. It’s a great spot to escape the cold and snow for a few days to enjoy outdoor activities. Exploring Arches National Park in the winter is one of our favorite destinations. It’s the off-season so there are no crowds and the temperature is nice for hiking the trails compared to the scorching heat during the summer. 

Drive about 25 miles to visit Canyonlands Island in the Sky and Dead Horse Point State Park. You can photograph the stunning views or explore the trails on foot or bike, again without the crowds or heat. Winter temperatures in the area are pretty moderate with the high being 40-50 degrees and lows in the 20-degree range.

Moab is a high-elevation desert. The nights are cold and the days are warm. Be sure to dress in layers. It usually doesn’t snow, but when it does, it doesn’t last long. The white snow against the red rocks is spectacular to see!

There are plenty of things to do on a weekend road trip in the winter with 2 national parks, 1 state park, and numerous hiking and off-road trails near Moab. You’ll wish you had more time than just the weekend!

Where to stay in Moab: Red Cliffs Lodge ! What an idyllic setting! It’s perched on the Colorado River on 220 acres and is surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs. The rooms are comfortable and affordable and it’s very close to the national parks and all the Moab attractions.

Switchbacks and Scenery in the  Smoky Mountains

-by Amanda Bowers of VeraVise Outdoor Living

There is no better way to get a glimpse at what makes the Smokies so special than to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains on Hwy 441 through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to Cherokee, North Carolina.   

Day 1: Gatlinburg, TN

Spend the day hiking to Rainbow Falls or exploring the shops and restaurants downtown. Stay at Hilton’s Doubletree Park Vista Inn for the best views of the mountains and downtown Gatlinburg.

Day 2: Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC

Since you are taking to the road today, we recommend grabbing a coffee and a donut at the Donut Friar. Then hit the road early to get ahead of the traffic. Make a brief stop at Sugarlands Visitor Center, then continue south on Highway 441 to the 5,048-foot Newfound Gap where Tennessee meets North Carolina.

After taking in the view of this “lowland” area, drive 15 minutes to the Clingman’s Dome parking area, grab your lunch and backpack, and take the steep but not too technical hike to Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in Tennessee at 6,643 feet.

Finish the day by heading to Cherokee, NC to learn about the Cherokee Nation at their outdoor theatre or try your hand at the slots at Harrah’s Casino.  We recommend driving on into Asheville, NC to spend the night unless you stay at Harrah’s as the hotel choices are fairly limited in this area.

Day 3: Asheville, NC

If you took our recommendation to stay in Asheville, you will have already arrived in our little “Los Angeles” of the east.  Time doesn’t allow us to go into all there is to do in Asheville, NC, but we definitely recommend some time be spent touring America’s Largest Home: The Biltmore Estate. You can also enter the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville to enjoy even more breathtaking mountain scenery.

Road Trip from Chicago to Memphis

-by Roxanna Keyes of Gypsy with a Day Job

Chicago to Memphis is an ideal winter road trip if you don’t mind the cold.  There is so much to do, and most of the driving is along Interstate 55, so road upkeep should be good. 

There are a dozen potential stops, but for 3 or 4 days, stick to the major cities. As a starting point, Chicago has a multitude of things to do, but for some unique winter choices, try sledding beneath Soldier Field, or ice skating in front of the Jelly Bean at Millenium Park, or at the Sky Rink at Peninsula Chicago.

Once on the road, Springfield, Illinois is the first stop.  The Abraham Lincoln Home National Historic site is open all year, and there are a number of other sites within walking distance, including the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which is fun and educational for all ages.

St. Louis is your next stop.  Visit the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, one of the newest National Parks in the United States.  Tour the Old Courthouse, let children participate in the Junior Ranger program, and take that heart-racing trip to the top of the Arch. 

Afterward, try a brewery tour, or spend some time outside at Forest Park, with a walk through the zoo, and outdoor ice skating at Steinberg Skating Rink.

Wrap up in Memphis, where the essentials are the Mud Island River Park and Museum, with its outdoor scale model of the Mississippi River, and the National Civil Rights Museum, which shares the story of Dr. Martin Luther King and the ongoing fight for equality. 

Music lovers may want to go a different route, with a visit to Graceland, the Stax Museum of American Soul, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Sun Records.

Fall in Love with Winter in Hocking Hills, Ohio

-by Tonya Prater of Travel Inspired Living

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Hocking Hills, you’ll find it to be one of the most scenic destinations in Ohio. But when winter hits and the region is blanketed with a layer of snow and the waterfalls slowly turn to ice the landscape is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. 

While the main draw to the area is the hiking trails located in the nearby state parks (there are five of them), you’ll also find the small towns throughout the region are worth a visit too.

To reach Hocking Hills, travelers in Central Ohio can take State Route 33 E south out of Columbus. I suggest taking a slight detour on to 22E to explore downtown Lancaster. Grab a bite to eat at The Well or JB’s Downtown Grill, shop for locally handcrafted goods at Miss Molly’s Mercantile, or explore the displays in the Ohio Glass Museum. Don’t miss the artwork on the square by local students.

Head back to 33 E and follow it to State Route 664. If you turn towards Walmart, you’ll head into Logan to find the Hocking Hills Winery, Olde Dutch Restaurant for Amish-style buffet dining, or Pearl’s Diner for down-home cooking.

You’ll also find the World’s Largest Washboard hanging on the side of the Columbus Washboard Co., the only manufacturer of washboards in the United States. Turning right on 664 leads you to Old Man’s Cave State Park, one of the most photographed trails in the area. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls are all a short distance away.

Continuing further on 664, you’ll come to historic Nelsonville. You’ll find unique architecture, an opera house with regular events, and The Emporium, an art gallery full of items from local artists. Grab a cup of coffee at FullBrooks Cafe and a bit to eat at The Boot Grill in the Rocky Outdoor Gear Outlet.

Where to Stay in Hocking Hills: At The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, you can stay in your own beautifully decorated yurt or a room in the main lodge. Free breakfast is available and the spa treatments are wonderful. 

Take the Back Roads: Salt Lake City to Las Vegas

-by Carol Guttery of Wayfaring Views

Take the slow road on a winter road trip from Salt Lake City, Utah to Las Vegas, Nevada.

If you drive it straight through, it’s six hours on a mind-numbing interstate freeway. But stretch it to three days and you can tack on two national parks, three state parks, and all of the red rock you can handle.

Doing the list below extends your drive time to ten hours, but that leaves you plenty of time for hiking and sightseeing.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Do sunrise at Sunset Point and/or sunset at Sunrise Point. Queens Garden is a nice, short day hike.
• Zion National Park (enter from the east via Hwy 9): Check in at the ranger station for ranger-led hikes or consider the Canyon Loverlook Trail for views.
• Snow Canyon State Park: Pick your distance from many interconnecting trails.
• Valley of Fire State Park: A lot of the interesting geology on or just off the paved roads. The Fire Wave hike is the most popular.
• Las Vegas: Go retro and do some fun kitschy things in downtown Vegas . If you have an extra half-day, go hiking in Red Rock Canyon, just west of Las Vegas.

Are you inspired to plan your next winter road trip in the USA? Leave a comment and tell us where you’re headed! Need packing advice? Check out our winter road trip packing list for cold-weather adventures.

Follow us on social media for more travel inspiration!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

thank you for sharing amazing article on road trip, USA

17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love

Posted on Published: November 17, 2023  - Last updated: November 28, 2023

Who says road tripping has to end when summer is over? Whether you’re hoping to escape the cold or hit the snowy ski slopes, here are the most amazing winter road trips around the US!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For some parts of the US, winter transforms landscapes into breathtaking scenes with snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes and dazzling white trees. Yet some regions in the US offer an escape from the snowy weather. Seeking sun is like an escape plan from the winter gloom!

So, which is better for you?

This list of the best road trips in winter takes you on routes like through quaint snowy New England towns or the sunny Florida beaches. Whether you love skiing and winter hikes or desert landscapes and palm trees, this list has something for everyone!

Must-see video: winter road trips

Map of road trips in winter

From marveling at the frozen waterfalls in Oregon to exploring desert landscapes in Arizona, these winter road trips should not be missed.

Check out the map below to start planning your US winter road trip Each icon on the map represents a city or stop along the routes below.

By the way, since I haven’t been everywhere (yet), I’ve enlisted the help of some of my fellow travel writers to prepare these recommendations for the best US road trips in winter. Enjoy!

Packing list for road trips in the winter

It’s no secret that temperatures drop throughout the United States during the winter months. Even Florida sees chillier nights than what you may be expecting. In order to have an enjoyable winter road trip, it’s important to be prepared.

Here’s a packing list to get you started!

• Snacks/food and water. Perfect for any weather, you’ll want to stay fueled during your road trip adventure. My family especially loves trail mix , beef jerky and fresh fruits and veggies for snacks.
• Reusable bottles. More eco-friendly than single use plastic, fill up at restaurants, national park refill stations or your hotel/accommodations.
• Collapsible cooler. Keep your cold items cold when needed, and fold it down to store or pack it away.
• Satellite communicator. Critical for outside communication in an emergency, this device allows for 2-way communication, even if you don’t have cell phone service. This satellite communicator has traveled with me everywhere for years!
• First aid kit. Another emergency item. This travel-size kit is small enough to pack in a suitcase if your’e flying to your road trip destination, too.
• GoPro. Capture really cool road trip footage (when you’re not driving, of course). My GoPro has traveled the country – and the world with me, actually, and I wouldn’t leave home without it.

What to pack for road trips to cold climates…

• Extra layers. In case it’s colder than you expect when adventuring around. Don’t forget the hats and gloves, too!
• Blanket. For emergencies or just to stay extra cozy!
• Hand warmers. Another handy item just in case.

Best US winter road trips

Let the winter road trip planning begin! Below you will find the very best winter road trips in the United States. From coast to coast and beyond, this list has some really fun ideas!

1. Denver to Albuquerque

• Distance: 449 miles
• Recommended time: 2 – 7 days

One of the very best winter road trips is the drive from Denver, Colorado, to Albuquerque, New Mexico! With adventures around every turn, this road trip is so amazing in the winter.

Interstate 25 south from Denver in to New Mexico is such a gem. There are so many places to stop and things to see along the way! You could spend a day (or more) in Denver seeing the main sights before heading south.

Be sure to spend some time in Colorado Springs, including Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. (My favorite trail in the park is the Siamese Twins Trail .) From there, if you have the time, take the quick detour to see America’s highest suspension bridge – the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Canon City.

Next, spend a day exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park – an underrated park in the USA! And during the winter, you’ll likely encounter very few crowds, making it extra peaceful.

As you enter New Mexico, you’ll want to visit Taos, and specifically the Taos Pueblo  indigenous village. Taos Ski Valley is also a popular wintertime activity if you want to hit the slopes!

Next is Santa Fe, which is full of southwestern charm with plenty of museums and indoor activities to do in winter. Be sure to visit Santa Fe Old Town for amazing food, artisans selling crafts and so much more.

Finally, as you make your way to Albuquerque, you could spend a day – or many – enjoying Old Town Albuquerque, Sandia Peak Tramway and even hiking the Petroglyph National Monument.

During the wintertime on this Denver to Albuquerque road trip you can expect snow, especially at high elevations. Keep an eye on the weather and come well prepared for the drive.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. The Oregon Coast (an underrated region on this list of winter road trips USA)

• Distance: 364 miles
• Recommended time: 4-5 days

If you’re looking to escape the snow for a bit, head to the Pacific Ocean and plan an  Oregon Coast road trip ! The entire route is on Highway 101, with 364 miles from Astoria to Brookings, Oregon.

The entire drive can be done in 7 hours, but it’s definitely recommended to spend your time seeing all the sights over a few days instead. Plan for the trip to take 4-5 days and to make plenty of stops throughout the day.

Driving along the Oregon Coast is a great place to enjoy a winter road trip, because the weather is great. There are rarely road closures because of snow!

Winter is also considered shoulder season on the coast . You may encounter more rainy days than sunny ones, but if you are prepared with some good rain gear, you’ll get a lot of popular beaches to yourself!

You will also be able to find plenty of affordable hotels and cabins along the coast. You’ll get the best deals on entry fees, accommodations, and travel costs in the winter season.

The Oregon Coast is special for a lot of reasons, but the biggest one is whale watching! During the months of December and January, you can spot whales making their annual migration south . Visit the OPRD Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay for more information!

There are also lots of gorgeous hiking trails along the coast, and the winter season provides perfect peace and solitude from the crowds.

If you love the outdoors and are looking for ways to get outside this winter season, head over to the Pacific Northwest! It’ll surely be one of the best US winter road trips you’ll ever take!

Recommended by Emily of The Mandagies

3. Florida Keys (a favorite on this list of best road trips in winter)

• Distance: 165 miles
• Recommended time: Minimum of a weekend and maximum of a week

One of the best winter road trips in the USA is a Florida Keys road trip from Miami to Key West. Not only is this drive stunning but it is best enjoyed in the winter when hurricane season is over. Plus, the daily highs are in the 70s F while daily lows are in the 50s F. 

To start, this route will take you from downtown Miami, where you can stop at the Perez Art Museum and Biscayne Bay National Park. This is a great place to go snorkeling since the park is free to enter and is covered by beautiful water. 

Next, continue to the Everglades and go on a fun airboat ride before heading to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. H ere, you can do a bit of scuba diving among some of the only living coral in the country.

Take some time to explore the beautiful waters of Key Largo as you jet ski, kayak, and scuba dive through cool offshore wrecks. 

When you’re ready, continue your road trip and stop for lunch at Robbie’s Waterfront . This way you can feed the giant school of Tarpons here before learning about local wildlife at the Dolphin Research Center and the Turtle Hospital.

You can then get out and walk along the old 7-mile bridge before driving from the middle keys to the lower keys. 

End your trip in Key West where you can do a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, sample some Key Lime Pie, and explore the Ernest Hemingway Home.

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers

4. Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington

• Distance: 117 miles
• Recommended time: 3 days

If you’re looking for a wintery wonderland road trip, through pine trees and mountains covered in snow, make the two hour and 15 minute drive east from Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington.  You could obviously drive this all in one go, but the incredible alpine landscape is best savored. 

Make your first stop in the cute town of Skykomish, which is surrounded by Snoqualmie National Forest, home to some of the best snow-shoeing trails in the area!

Continuing on your journey, consider a stop at Scenic Hot Springs. They are a unique series of tubs with steamy water, tucked 2.2 miles up into the Cascade Mountains. The springs are on private property so you’ll need to book a permit to make the trek here well in advance. 

Next up, Stevens Pass Ski Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Washington, with an eye-popping 1,125 acres of skiable terrain. It offers something for beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders alike, with 37 major runs and 10 chairlifts. 

Finally, your end destination during this road trip in the winter will be Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-themed town that looks straight out of the  Sound of Music .

While Leavenworth is adorable all year round, it explodes with Christmas cheer in the wintertime, with over half a million Christmas lights festooning its downtown. And good news—even if you’re visiting past the holidays, the decorations here actually stay up through February!

While you’re here, book a stay at any of the Bavarian-style  hotels in Leavenworth , like the Bavarian Lodge or the Blue Elk Inn , so you can get cozy in the town and enjoy a steaming mug of  gluhwein  or two.

The mountains passes along the main road you’ll take, US 2, can get large amounts of snow in the wintertime and close in inclement weather.

Keep an eye on the Washington Department of Transportation website for closures and pack some tire chains in your ca r. They come in handy (and can even be legally required in some instances) when it’s particularly snowy out!

Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler

5. New England (one of the best winter road trips in the Eastern US)

• Distance: 465 miles (Round-trip to and from Boston)
• Recommended time: 7+ days

While a snowy, winter road trip through the charming towns of New England may not be a popular one to take this time of the year, it’s most definitely a magical and cozy option!

Between tons of options for skiing, cozy inns, covered bridges, fantastic dining, and easy to navigate roads, it has everything for a wonderfully memorable road trip in the Northeast.

The best place to start any New England road trip, even in the winter, is Boston. This gorgeous city is worthy of a day or two on its own, but also offers the most flight options, and is centrally-located to many popular destinations.

Winter is the off-season in Boston, too, which means you’ll find some fantastic hotel rates!

Next, head off to Vermont, where you’ll find quaint villages and picturesque winter scenery at every turn. Stowe and Woodstock are the best towns to visit in  Vermont in the winter , and you’ll find great ski resorts here, adorable Main Streets, covered bridges, and winter activities during your visit.

Next, make your way over to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, where you can enjoy more world-class skiing, and book a stay at a cozy cabin or a homey inn. Take a sleigh ride or go ice skating at Nestlenook Farms in Jackson , ride The Cog to roast marshmallows on Mount Washington, and book a table at the lovely Christmas Farm Inn’s restaurant.

Lastly, make your way through Maine, where you can see some of the beautiful lighthouses in their off-season (and if you’re lucky, catch them after a gorgeous snowfall).

Maine is also home to some of the best breweries in New England (Portland has over 60 of them!). This is a great time of year to sample all the local brews while enjoying the spectacular coastline – which you’ll probably have all to yourself. 

End your time in Maine by visiting the coastal town of Kennebunkport, and book dinner and hand-crafted cocktails in a private fish shack at Batson River, which are decorated perfectly for winter on the inside. 

While New England does average about 90 inches of snow each winter, the roads are generally safe to drive on, as plows come through often . However, it’s a good idea to rent or drive a car with snow tires for added peace of mind during your road trip.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

6. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

• Distance: 200 miles
• Recommended time: 2-3 nights

For anyone looking for a beautiful winter road trip through the mountains, this is for you! The route from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe takes you through the Sierra Nevada Mountains to end at Tahoe City , one of the major towns on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe.

The route travels exclusively along Highway I-80, which traverses from coast to coast through the northern states!

This route is perfect during winter because you will see the gorgeous snowfall once you start climbing the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The evergreen trees are something special when covered in snow and something everyone should see at least once!

Lake Tahoe is absolutely stunning when covered in snow, and there are so many  things to do in Tahoe in the winter !

Along the route, you will travel through Donner Pass, which is an infamous pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It gets its name from the Donner Party, who tragically got stuck while traveling through the mountains by wagon. Donner Memorial State Park is located near the pass, and is worth a visit while on your trip.

When traveling from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe during winter months, it is important to be prepared for driving in the snow.

Although snow plows frequently plow the snow along the highway, there is tight regulation by rangers on who can go on the highway during snow storms to ensure the safety of all travelers. A car with 4-wheel drive or chains is often required on this route when there is snowfall, and the rangers will ensure all travelers have either before entering the Sierra Nevadas. 

Road closures can happen, and will be available to view on  Go Tahoe North . Road closures are typically only present during severe winter storms , with the road closure lasting anywhere from hours to days depending on the severity.

This route gets heavy traffic during the holidays, and on Friday afternoons as the Bay Area residents come to Tahoe for a weekend ski trip! To avoid traffic, plan to leave early in the day or during a weekday is possible.

Recommended by Jess of Travel + Tannins

More road trips in winter

Are you packing your winter coat or bathing suit for your winter road trip? Keep reading for more of the best US winter road trips!

7. Big Island of Hawaii (a perfect road trip in the winter for sunshine)

• Distance: 125 miles
• Recommended time: 3+ nights

If you are looking for one of the best road trips in winter, then head to the Big Island of Hawaii.

This fun road trip starts in  downtown Hilo  and takes you around the island. Although you can do this in one day, I recommend spending at least 3 nights to fully appreciate the island. Staying overnight at any of the places along the way will make your visit and experience more impactful and fun without needing to rush.

The total distance around the island is about 125 miles or 3 hours in each direction . But you will definitely want to stop at many points along the way.

Start by driving down the Belt Road through the Hamakua coastline. Here, you can visit scenic roadways like the Onomea scenic drive. Be sure to save time for a stop at the beautiful Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Gardens.

Then, continue on to Akaka Falls. It’s one of the most striking waterfalls and natural garden to visit.

As you traverse along cliff roadways, you can stop by the western town of Honoka’a and then see the largest gluch area of Wapio Valley from the observation area lookout. 

Lunch can be in the Paniolo town of Waimea with some shopping fun at Parker Ranch or the many daily public markets in the area.

Continue down the belt road to Kona side and visit Waikoloa area and the gorgeous white sandy beaches in the area. Kona town is historic with a fun old downtown to explore. You’ll also find The Summer Palace and gorgeous stone church of Mokuaikaua.

You might want to stay overnight in Kona or you can continue on towards the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. On your way down to the south of the island, be sure to visit the Green Sand beach or the Black Sand Beach at Punalu’u.

The national park is the biggest attraction of the island and can easily be a day trip on its own. You might want to consider an overnight stay to enjoy some hikes, vistas, visit to lava tubes and gorgeous fern forests in the park area.

After the national park, continue back towards Hilo to do more exploring in the old town and many lush gardens , waterfalls and fun outdoor activities and adventures.

Recommended by Noel of This Hawaii Life

8. Bryce to Capitol Reef via Escalante, Utah

• Distance: 150 miles 
• Recommended time: 4-6 hours

Southwestern Utah is a beautiful destination for a winter road trip. Most sights will be far less crowded, allowing you to visit the state’s finest landmarks in peace .

Winter temperatures range from 11°F to 38°F, which makes a warm car the best way to explore Utah during this season.

Take a scenic drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef via UT-12 for a winter wonderland road trip. This 150-mile road connects two national parks via Dixie and Fishlake National Forests . Budget at least 3.5 hours to complete the drive and another 1-2 hours to stop at the viewpoints. 

This route reaches a maximum elevation of 9,593 ft . Other than a few small patches of ice, the drive is accessible year round, and is one of the best routes for sightseeing during an Utah national parks road trip . It’s still a good idea to check the national park websites for road and attraction closures after heavy snowfall.

You will likely drive across a snowy landscape, which makes this one of the best road trips in the winter. Get ready to be mesmerized by Utah’s winter colors. Red rock, green pine trees, white snow, and blue sky are a combination to see. These views are sure to make this winter road trip a memorable adventure.

You should save about half a day to explore Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. You can enjoy the park overlooks right from your car. But pack snacks, layer up, wear sturdy shoes , and bring crampons if you plan on hiking. Be sure to take your Interagency pass to save on the entrance fees.

Recommended by Anastasia of Travel Realist

9. Niagara Falls to New York City (one of the best winter road trips USA)

• Distance: 410 miles

One of the best winter road trips to do on the east coast is from one of the biggest natural attractions to one of the biggest cities in the world. This Niagara Falls to New York City road trip is one of a kind.

There is a beautiful scenic road from the Niagara Falls, to Buffalo, Syracuse to New York. The route is known for its stunning scenery, with picturesque views on the vast forests, and charming small towns.

It snows a lot in this region and the temperature in winter ranges from 20° to 35°F. In fact, Syracuse is one of the snowiest cities in the United States . It creates a white winter fairytale that becomes especially magical at the Niagara Falls, the starting point of the road trip. 

Then, visitors can head east to Syracuse and the Ithaca area. There are stunning parks and waterfalls in this region and you should explore it for one or two days. Taughannock Falls State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park become frozen wonderlands in winter.

If you want to visit a third park before reaching New York, Harriman State Park offers stunning hikes and has beautiful lakes. 

Last but not least, New York in winter is wonderful to experience the festive atmosphere. You could see a snowy Central Park, enjoy seasonal Christmas shows and even sleep in a skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan which is the  best area to stay in New York for first-timers .

Recommended by Soline of On The Road Diary

10. Phoenix to Page, Arizona

• Distance: 273 Miles
• Recommended time: 2-3 Days

One of the best road trips in winter is from Phoenix to Page Arizona. While Phoenix and Page are less than 300 miles apart, there are a few great stops between them.

In fact, you pass directly through two of my favorite towns in Arizona – Sedona and Flagstaff. The  best of Phoenix  includes museums and outdoor activities so spend some time there if you can.

For the best road trip itinerary, I recommend spending one night in Sedona on your way up. While in Sedona be sure to take a Pink Jeep tour of the red rocks area to admire the scenic views and unique terrain.

Between Sedona and Page, stop in Flagstaff for a half day. It’s a great stop for lunch while being surrounded by the amazing alpine scenery.

Then, spend one or two nights in Page, depending on your schedule. Some of the  best things to do in Page  are hiking and outdoor adventure tours. Two must-see sights in Page are Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

To see Antelope Canyon, you must take a tour due to local regulations. However, it’s well worth the time and money to see these iconic slot canyons. Horseshoe Bend is a quick hike that takes around 1 hour total.

Many people think of Arizona as a hot desert state. While that is true for places like Scottsdale and Phoenix, the north of Arizona is quite different.

Winter temperatures in Sedona, Flagstaff, and Page are often in the 30’s – 40’s. There’s even a ski area in Flagstaff!

Overall, a winter road trip from Phoenix to Page is guaranteed to be super scenic and will show you the diversity of the state’s geography. 

Recommended by Lauren of The Traveling Moore

11. Highway 30A, Florida (one of the warmest and best road trips in winter)

• Distance: 24 miles 
• Recommended time: 2 to 6 hours 

One of the most fun road trips in the Florida Panhandle is taking a drive along Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton County. 

The winter is a perfect time to visit since it’s the slow season. You can expect temperatures in the low 60’s for a high and 40’s for a low in the winter months.  

This stretch of highway is located on the backroads between Destin and Panama City Beach and winds along the Gulf Coast.   Start by visiting Topsail Hill Preserve State Park which is in Santa Rosa Beach , and has several walking trails and a secluded beach area. 

If state parks are your thing, then you’ll also want to visit Grayton Beach State Park and Point Washington State Forest, both on or near 30A. 

While in Santa Rosa Beach, visit Gulf Place, Ed Walline Beach Access, and Dune Allen Beach.  

As you make your way east, recommended stops are Blue Mountain Beach and the Blue Mountain Beach Creamery.  If you love seafood, grab a lobster roll at Chiringo in Grayton Beach.  There’s also the popular Red Bar and AJ’s nearby. 

Arguably, the most iconic part of 30A is  Seaside, Florida , where you take a step back in time in this slow beach town.  

You can’t miss Airstream Row food trucks since they’re located on 30A as you enter Seaside.  From here, you’re right by the town square, shops, waterfront restaurants, and the Van Ness Butler Beach!

Seaside is most known for being the place where the Jim Carrey movie, The Truman Show, was filmed.

Recommended by Wayne of Always on the Shore

12. Las Vegas to Zion National Park

• Distance:  151 miles (2 hours if driving non stop)
• Recommended time:  4 days

Las Vegas to Zion National Park is a great short (and safe) road trip to take in winter as the roads are in good condition, even if it snows . You would not expect road closures along this route as it follows major highways (Interstate 15 then Highway 9).

While you can technically make this trip in a day and it’s even one of the best day trips from Las Vegas . However, it would certainly be a mistake to only spend one day in Zion , as it is one of the best national parks in the USA!

There are also some great stops to make along the way including the very photogenic Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead and Toquerville Falls. If you are traveling with friends or as a couple, you can also make an overnight stop in the town of Mesquite Nevada which is a mini Vegas in the desert.

Winter is a  great time to visit Zion National Park  as there are way less crowds and still lots of fun activities to do! You can still hike the popular Angel’s Landing in winter, provided there is no snow.

Hiking the Narrows is also a possibility in winter with appropriate gear including a dry suit. Alternatively, you can do the easy and quick Canyon Overlook Trail , which has amazing views for less effort.

Expect the weather to be cold with a possibility of snow. Winter in Vegas reaches lows of 28 °F . You can expect Zion to reach a few degrees lower as it is located at a higher altitude.

Recommended by Bett of Utah Vacationers

Road trips in the winter continued…

In case you haven’t decided where to road trip this winter yet, here are more options – whether you’re seeking sunny weather or perfect ski conditions.

13. Albuquerque to Taos, New Mexico (an underrated winter road trip for ski-enthusiasts)

• Distance: 266 miles 
• Recommended time: 5-7 days

Traveling through New Mexico is magical during the winter! One of the ideal routes starts in Albuquerque, the state’s largest city with biggest airport, heading north on the iconic Turquoise Trail (State Route 14).

This scenic highway leads travelers through historic mining towns and the picturesque Sandia Mountains.

Spend a few days in  Santa Fe , the state’s capital and primary tourism destination (1 hour from Albuquerque). You can explore art galleries, museums, and the historic adobe architecture of the city . The Old Town is walkable.

The winter season brings a unique charm to the city, with holiday markets like the Santa Fe Indian Market Winter Showcase and the Canyon Road Farolito Walk, where thousands of luminarias (paper lanterns) light up in the streets on Christmas Eve. To warm up on chilly winter days, get a bowl of the famous Green Chile stew, a Santa Fe specialty.

Continue further north to Taos Ski Valley, which is an hour and a half from Santa Fe. You’ll find wintery white slopes, and offerings for skiers of all levels. Visitors can also enjoy snowboarding, snowshoeing, and relaxing in hot springs like the famous Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa.

Travelers should be prepared for winter weather in New Mexico, which can vary from mild to cold temperatures, especially in the high-altitude regions. The daily temperature in winter in Santa Fe is 48 degrees.

From December to February, snowfall is common, making road conditions unpredictable. Check weather forecasts and road conditions regularly, as occasional road closures can occur due to snowstorms, especially in the Taos Valley.

If flying back home, travel back to the Albuquerque Airport to complete your journey.

Recommended by Eleanor of Elevate Your Escapes

14. Lincoln to Conway, New Hampshire

• Distance: 34 miles
• Recommended time: 1-2 days

If you’re looking for a picturesque winter road trip destination, look no further than New Hampshire. The state has  charming New England towns  straight out of a Hallmark movie as well as stunning four-season mountain scenery. 

One of the best ways to experience this natural beauty is by taking a road trip along the Kangamangus Highway. 

Start your road trip along the Kangamangus Highway, a 34 mile stretch of road through New Hampshire that offers stunning views of the White Mountains . I’d suggest starting in Lincoln and taking the highway to Conway for optimal views.

The highway will remain open in the winter but be sure to keep an eye on the weather. I’d also suggest 4-wheel drive on your vehicle . Always drive prepared with water and blankets in case of an unexpected breakdown. 

Take the Kangamangus Highway to the town of North Conway. This charming town is known for its quaint storefronts, delicious restaurants, and outdoor activities .

Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and even four-season fun can be found in North Conway making it an ideal destination for adventurers.

It was named one of the Top 10 Best Small Towns in America for Adventure, offering an exciting winter ski scene. There are six mountain resorts providing state-of-the-art lifts and trail grooming.

This road trip is perfect for those who want to view a combination of quaint towns and stunning snowy scenery.

Temperatures will be quite cold in the winter from 40-10 degrees Fahrenheit so make sure you are prepared. Winter (as well as fall) is considered high season in New Hampshire so make any hotel bookings well in advance.

Recommended by Sierra of Your Guide to Wandering

15. California deserts

• Distance: 880 miles
• Recommended time: 6 days

If you are looking to do a winter road trip in the western part of the country, consider a  California deserts road trip ! Starting and ending in Los Angeles, this road trip offers balmy weather, sunny skies, and some of the most majestic landscapes in the USA.

Fly into Los Angeles, pick up your rental car, and get ready to be wowed as you head first to Death Valley National Park, the hottest and driest place in the country. Spend a full day exploring the many sights here.

Then drive through the starkly beautiful Mojave National Preserve to California’s other great desert national park, Joshua Tree, which actually straddles two deserts.

Next, take a city break in Palm Springs, with its mid-century modern architecture and great eateries.

Then drive to Borrego Springs, where you will explore Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which features oases and badlands. Finally, return to LA!

You’ll find great weather along this route in the winter, with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. Nights will get cold, though, so bring layers if you want to gaze at the night skies!

Roads are usually open along this route in the winter, but you’ll want to check right before you go. Bring sun protection and remember to stay hydrated during this epic winter road trip in the US!

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

16. Denver to Glenwood Springs, Colorado (another favorite on this list of best US winter road trips)

• Distance: 157 Miles
• Recommended Time : 6 hours with stops

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, you will find one of the most gorgeous road trips in winter in the US. The popular route connecting Denver, CO to Glenwood Springs, CO takes travelers on a magical journey on I-70 passing through mountain towns, ski resorts, and jaw-dropping scenery.

Along the route, you will find many amazing points of interest including the world-famous Red Rock Ampitheater, Loveland Pass Viewpoint, Frisco, CO, and multiple ski resorts.

Just off the interstate, you will find Copper Mountain Ski Resort , known for its massive Superpipe that you can see right off I-70!

Additionally, this drive is home to one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in America, the Glenwood Canyon. This picture-perfect 12.5-mile stretch of road weaves travelers through a canyon following the Colorado River.

During the winter months, this drive turns into a winter wonderland. This means it can become very dangerous, so having the proper equipment and tires for your car is importan t. In fact, sometimes it’s even closed due to the weather!

When driving this route in winter, it is important to be flexible with the weather and drive safely. The drive from Denver, CO to Glenwood Springs, CO takes drivers through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery with many fun stops along the way.

Recommended by Danika of Destination Danika

17. Fort Pierce to Fort Lauderdale, Florida

• Distance: 110 miles
• Recommended time: at least one weekend.

Driving from Fort Pierce to Fort Lauderdale, Florida is undoubtedly one of the best winter road trips USA for travelers to explore. This route is considered to be one of the best routes during winter for two main reasons.

Firstly, you will be driving through some of the  warmest places in Florida , featuring warm and mild temperatures and sunshine, ranging from 62 to 81 degrees . This makes it the perfect escape from the chilly weather of northern states.

Secondly, there are several interesting stops along the way – both manmade and natural – that are worth exploring.

The quiet shores of Hutchinson Island are the perfect place to have the beach all to yourself. Soft sand, lush palms, and blue ocean stretch for miles.

The Riviera Marina at Palm Beach is a great place for snorkeling and stand up paddleboarding, for anyone looking for fun water sports. You can even paddleboard to small islands and islets off the shore!

Also on the way is Boca Raton, a city known for its golf courses, green parks and beaches. Animal enthusiasts will find a butterfly garden and a sea turtle sanctuary here, too . Downtown is the well known Boca Raton Museum of Art, with modern and contemporary collections for the art lovers.

Once you reach Fort Lauderdale, a lot of exciting venues await. Plentiful museums and an active nightlife grace the city of Fort Lauderdale.

One important thing to note while traveling during this period is that it gets dark quite early, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. Be sure to start all water activities well before sunset.

Overall, driving from Fort Pierce to Fort Lauderdale Florida during winter is a fantastic choice, with the striking landscapes along the route making the trip even more memorable.

Recommended by Monica from This Rare Earth

Winter road trips recap

Gah! So many good options, right?! Whether you’re looking to keep those Vitamin D levels in check or seeking outdoor activities with brisk air, there’s so many great routes to take during the best US winter road trips.

From Florida to New England, Utah to Oregon, the possibilities seem endless when it comes to adventure in the winter months in the USA.

Here’s a quick recap of the best winter road trips in the US!

Best road trips in winter

• Denver to Albuquerque
• The Oregon Coast
• Florida Keys
• Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington
• New England
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe, California
• Big Island of Hawaii
• Bryce to Capitol Reef via Escalante, Utah
• Niagara Falls to New York City
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• Highway 30A, Florida
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park
• Albuquerque to Taos, New Mexico
• Lincoln to Conway, New Hampshire
• California deserts
• Denver to Glenwood Springs, Colorado
• Fort Pierce to Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Related posts to read next: 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe 23 Incredible RV Vacations: Scenic RV Road Trips You Need to Take

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Saturday 25th of November 2023

So many amazing suggestions on here! Bryce Canyon has been on my list for the longest time - looks stunning with a bit of snow. Also, stunning photos 😍

Friday 1st of December 2023

Oh yay Haylee! Sounds like a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park is in your future. It's one of my favorites on this list for sure!

Saturday 18th of November 2023

What a great variety of road trips you've covered. Coming from New England, id choose the Florida trip.

Tuesday 21st of November 2023

Great choice Amy! Gotta love that sunshine and warm weather during the wintertime 🏖️

This is an amazing collection of road trips. I'd love to do them all in time!

Oh yay Sara! Glad you found some inspiration here :)

Protect Your Trip »

8 Great American Winter Road Trips

Explore legendary routes that pack plenty of scenery and few crowds.

Getty Images

From North Carolina to California, here's where you should hit the road this winter.

You've probably considered road tripping in spring or fall, when brilliant floral or foliage displays entice us to fill up the tank and take a drive. But in winter, when famed rock formations are frosted with snow and America's top national parks are crowd-free, you can experience the country's iconic routes with less traffic and reduced lodging rates. Of course, driving in winter comes with its own caveats. "Always have one or two alternate routes at the ready should weather force a plan B," advises Gabe Saglie, senior editor at Travelzoo. With that in mind, here are incredible drives across the country to experience this winter.

[See: 10 Bucket List Winter Family Vacation Experiences .]

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee and North Carolina

The scenic route along Interstate 40 and U.S. 321 through the Great Smoky Mountains, from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina, looks like a storybook setting out of Europe in winter, says Rebecca Warren, Lonely Planet's eastern U.S. destination editor. "Incorporate the city of Gatlinburg for some kitschy fun, trading the road for the sky as you take the aerial tramway to get a great view across the mountains," Warren says. And don't miss hitting the trails when you need a break from the road. As for lodging, the LeConte Lodge offers high-end accommodations at a reasonable rate, with cabins (and two meals) available nightly for $140 per person through Nov. 22, 2016.

Big Bend National Park Texas

Big Bend National Park offers plenty of striking landscapes to explore. "This enormous park is stunning, offering incomparable vistas across wide expanses of desert," Warren says. "With more than 100 miles of paved roads, the winter offers pleasant temperatures that allow you to stop and take in some of the park's fantastic hikes without having to deal with the triple-digit heat found here in summer," she adds. Don't skip cruising along the 30-mile-long Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which features striking geological formations and the limestone cliffs of the Santa Elena Canyon. Plus, you can score affordable lodging at Chisos Mountains Lodge, with nightly rates in December available for around $140.

Florida Keys Florida

Florida's famous 113-mile drive along Route 1 affords a memorable journey year-round, but in winter, you can escape the chillier temperatures of the Midwest and Northeast to enjoy outdoor pursuits like kayaking in Bahia Honda State Park and a dose of history in Key West. "Key West has a party-hearty reputation," explains Robert Firpo-Cappiello, editor-in-chief of BudgetTravel.com. "But it also offers Victorian homes, kayaking, art galleries and beautiful beaches," he explains. Plus, you can secure affordable accommodations in Key West. Hotel deal site goSeek.com shows nightly rates for three-and-a-half star accommodations in the area for around $115 in December.

Hudson Valley New York

Striking vistas abound after you hop across the Tappan Zee Bridge along Interstate 287 to visit charming towns, such as Nyack and Rhinebeck. "This region is beautiful in the winter, with winding roads and stately homes in plentiful supply," Warren says. "Drive along the Saw Mill River Parkway for peaceful views that make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of nearby New York City ," she adds. Along the way, stop at Hyde Park, an estate filled with a beaux arts palace and a Georgian colonial home that is part of the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. This history-filled journey is ideal for weekend jaunts.

Vermont's Route 100 Vermont

Vermont bursts with picturesque scenes, characterized by glistening slopes, charming small towns and villages and quaint lodges. And along the idyllic Route 100 roadway, you'll weave past little-known towns such as Wilmington, Weston and Stowe , and have the chance to visit unique attractions, like the Trapp Family Lodge. For a stay to remember, don't skip bunking down at Stowe Mountain Lodge, A Destination Resort , which offers rooms starting around $280 in December (early booking promotions are also available). For a cost-effective alternative, Firpo-Cappiello points to Stratton, Vermont, as an enticing area in the Green Mountain State, thanks to its beautiful resort, pristine terrain and reasonably priced ski lift tickets.

[See: 6 Secret Ski Destinations You Can Afford .]

Arches National Park Utah

In winter, Arches National Park is blanketed in snow, making its stunning sandstone rock formations even more postcard-worthy. Plus, you won't battle many other visitors as you take in the area's surroundings and otherworldly desert scenes. Make sure to snake along Scenic Drive for the best views of top points of interest such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock. An ideal entry point to Arches is about 5 miles north of Moab, Utah, along U.S. Highway 191. After admiring park highlights and hitting the trails, head to the heart of Moab, where you'll find budget-friendly places to stay, like the Red Cliffs Lodge (rooms are available for around $120 nightly in December) along with plenty of charming eateries and breweries.

The Pacific Coast Highway Southern California

"Winter weather can be great in the Golden State, and rainfall becomes a much bigger factor in January and February, so hit the road in the first half of winter," Saglie says. He suggests taking a classic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego, with stops in Orange County, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and coastal areas, like Morro Bay. Firpo-Cappiello also suggests carving out some additional time to explore can't-miss and affordable attractions in San Diego , such as Balboa Park and its 100-acre zoo. The drive from San Diego to Santa Monica also affords the chance to experience alluring coastal areas, including Laguna Beach.

[See: America's Best Family Road Trips .]

Lake Tahoe Nevada

If you've ever wanted to cruise along the 28-mile-long Lake Tahoe National Scenic Byway, consider making this scenic journey in winter. At this time of year, snow dusts the peaks along the Sierra Nevada range and the area's alpine regions beckon outdoor enthusiasts to partake in cold-weather pastimes, such as skiing, sledding and ice skating. You can also hit the trails and enjoy the splendors of the sprawling Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park and unwind in Incline Village, a charming town in North Lake Tahoe with plenty of skiable terrain and laid-back mountain lodges.

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6 U.S. Road Trips to Take This Winter

By Emily Pennington

A dusting of powdery, white snow is beginning to fall across the country, but that doesn’t have to mean your road tripping days are over. With a little extra research and creativity, winter can be a fantastic season to go for a drive, whether that's a sunny desert escape or a slope-searching tour du ski. We’ve compiled a list of our winter-specific favorites, with a little something for everyone—from active travelers to fine dining gourmands to national park collectors. They're all across the country, too, so wherever you are, a great winter road trip route isn't far. 

As always during the pandemic , locations mentioned are subject to alter their hours and operations at any time, so check with any restaurants and attractions before hitting the road. Likewise, it’s a good idea to read up on state travel restrictions prior to commencing a trip. Read on for six of our favorite winter road trips, from Tennessee to Washington. 

Zion National Park to Moab National Park, Utah

The onset of winter shouldn’t automatically mean that sunny days in the great outdoors are over; to chase bright, dry skies, head for the desert. This jaunt will have you swooning over Utah’s myriad of red rocks, elaborate hoodoos, and slot canyons, with pitstops in Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef, and Arches national parks. Spend a full week to really soak up the scenery (and craft beer).

Where to stop: Begin early in Zion to take in the sunrise glow from within the fabled canyon walls. Stop for photos and say hello to the horses in rustic, cliff-lined Fruita in Capitol Reef National Park , then cruise up to Moab for the Arches scenic drive before taking in sunset at Dead Horse Point .

Where to eat: Enjoy epic views, casual Mexican fusion and local brews just outside Zion National Park at Whiptail Grill . In Moab, savor wood-fired pizza at Antica Forma , topped with fresh house-made mozzarella (they craft 200 pounds in-store each morning).

Where to stay: For canyon views, it doesn’t get better than Xanterra’s Zion Lodge . If you’re brave enough to camp in the cold , the Fruita Campground in Capitol Reef is one of the dreamiest in the state. Top it all off with a little R&R at Moab's Red Cliffs Lodge . Perched right on the banks of the Colorado River , enjoy southwestern décor, in-room jacuzzi tubs, and sky-high red rock views from their dining hall, The Cowboy Grill.

Highway 395, California

Winding past historic wild west towns and countless dramatic 14ers (mountains with elevations of at least 14,000 feet), California’s Highway 395 is a stunner at any time of year. It really sings in winter, though, when you can marvel at the snow-capped Sierra Nevada and enjoy your après-ski in chic mountain lodges. Allow at least a few nights (four minimum) for this route. 

Where to stop: Snap a photo at the famous Mobius Arch (and gaze up at an icy Mount Whitney) in the Alabama Hills , just outside of historic Lone Pine. Stretch your legs on the accessible boardwalk around stunning Convict Lake , then cozy up for a quick drive over to Mammoth Mountain for some downhill fun. Before parking in Reno , take a breathtaking gondola ride in Tahoe for the best views of California’s largest lake.

Where to eat: Copper Top BBQ in tiny Big Pine, California, was voted the best restaurant in the country on Yelp back in 2015, and their pulled pork still lives up to the hype. For fancier fare, reserve a table at Chef Lonny Huot’s Edgewood Restaurant in South Lake Tahoe and feast your eyes on a spectacular sunset over the lake.

Where to stay: Lounge in luxury at the lakeside Edgewood Resort in Tahoe. Committed to minimizing its environmental footprint (it's a LEED-certified building), this world-class hotel and spa offers superb dining and waterfront views.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, to Nashville

One of the best things about east coast mountains (apart from their rich human history) is their year-round accessibility, due to being lower in elevation than their counterparts out west. This trip is all about soaking up the best of both worlds—the human and the wilderness—from the panoramic views of Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive, to a spooky tour of Mammoth Cave, and even the lively honky-tonk bars in Nashville’s historic downtown. 

Where to stop: Shenandoah National Park , in Northern Virginia, is a hiker’s dream, with 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail cutting right along the park’s spine. From there, it’s easy to continue onto the Blue Ridge Parkway all the way to Great Smoky Mountains . Head to Cades Cove to take in the centuries-old Cherokee and homestead history of the area, before veering north towards a self-guided tour of Mammoth Cave National Park .

Where to eat: Nashville’s Geist has consistently been rated one of the most beautiful restaurants in the country, with its 1886 brick façade, twinkling chandeliers, and studded barstools. Plus, no trip to Music City would be complete without a drink and a live show at the iconic Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge .

Where to stay: Just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains lies The Lodge at Buckberry Creek , a boutique, all-suite stay away from the bustle of downtown Gatlinburg that’s decked out with gas fireplaces, private balconies, and soaking tubs to soothe those post-hike bones. In Nashville , enjoy the colorful décor and stained glass at The Russell , where no two of their quirky, upscale rooms are alike.

Boulder to Durango, Colorado

There’s nothing quite like the scenic splendor of the Rockies, especially with a dusting of fresh snow. Start in Boulder, nestled beneath spellbinding Rocky Mountain National Park , then wheel past Vail to Avalanche Ranch and its soakworthy hot springs. The trip ends with a cliff’s edge drive along the winding Million Dollar Highway , weather permitting.

Where to stop: Moraine Park has some of the best views in the Rockies and is a fantastic spot to search for elk in the snowy valley. Afterwards, enjoy the twinkling lights and small-town shops of neighboring Estes Park . Downhill addicts won’t want to miss a stopover in Vail before steering through Aspen towards the eerie, narrow Black Canyon of the Gunnison . Lastly, explore Durango’s wilderness and mining history with a railroad ride into Cascade Canyon .

Where to eat: From their organic, locally-sourced alpine ingredients to their extensive, curated wine list, the creative tapas of Leonora at The Sebastian in Vail won’t disappoint. For local brews and epic tacos in a more casual setting, try Avalanche Brewing Company in Silverton.

Where to stay: The St. Julien Hotel & Spa in Boulder offers eco-friendly elegance, a great restaurant (Jill’s), and spectacular views of the Flatirons mountains from your very own in-room patio.

Jessica Puckett

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Meaghan Kenny

Vermont to Maine

Frigid New England might not be the first place that comes to mind when brainstorming a winter road trip, but take one look at Vermont’s storybook villages like Weston , Wilmington , and Stowe , and we bet you’ll change your tune. Tack on a trip to Acadia National Park , by way of lobster-rich Portland , Maine, and experience the ragged Atlantic coastline free of summer crowds.

Where to stop: Have an Instagram moment at frozen Moss Glen Falls , then cruise along Vermont’s scenic Route 100, stopping for the infamous Vermont Country Store in Weston and a quaint horse-drawn carriage ride. Savor a scoop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury and round out the trip with a drive along the plowed portion of Ocean Drive in Acadia .

Where to eat: Havana , in Bar Harbor, Maine, is just minutes from Acadia, serves a mean seafood paella, and boasts a noteworthy wine list. Reservations are recommended.

Where to stay: Nestled between Stowe Village and the slopes lies Topnotch Resort , an upscale haven with dining and soothing post-slope spa treatments. In Bar Harbor, finding winter lodging can be trickier, but the cozy Inn on Mount Desert stays open year-round and even has a lending library for cuddling up by the fire.

Crater Lake, Oregon, to Seattle

The Pacific Northwest is a dream road trip destination in any month, but there’s something about traversing moss-laden forests and seeing a snow-capped Mount Rainier in winter that just makes the entire experience more special. Start with a snowshoe around Oregon’s Crater Lake , then warm up on the drive along the Mount Hood Scenic Byway before stopping in Portland, Oregon . Wheel over to Olympic National Park for a moody stroll along the forested Pacific before taking in the natural beauty of Mount Rainier.

Where to stop: Though most of the Rim Drive is closed in winter, photographers will enjoy snowy Crater Lake views from Rim Village. Pick up a new or rare read for the journey at Powell’s City of Books in Portland, the largest independent bookstore in the world. Nature addicts can chase a few waterfalls at the Columbia River Gorge, then head to Rialto Beach way up on the Olympic Peninsula. Or, simply make a beeline for Seattle and play in the snow at Mount Rainier’s Paradise .

Where to eat: Voodoo Doughnuts is a Portland staple and sweet stop for a road trip snack. In Seattle, warm up with hand-cut hot soba at chef-driven Kamonegi .

Where to stay: Enjoy late-night nosh in a stunning building dating back to 1909 at Portland’s artsy-chic Hotel Lucia . It’s an ideal location for exploring the city’s notoriously quirky downtown scene. As for Seattle, keep the post-Rainier adventure vibes alive at the elegant, whimsical Kimpton Palladian .

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The 16 Best Winter Road Trips in the USA You Should Take This Year

Embarking on a winter road trip across the USA is an adventure like no other. As the chilly air sets in, the land transforms into a shiny, beautiful place covered in snow. It’s a great time to go on an exciting cross-country odyssey.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 16 best winter road trips, taking you through captivating destinations and unveiling the beauty of winter travel .

Key Takeaways

• A winter road trip from New York to Pennsylvania and driving to Georgia and South Carolina are awesome and underrated adventure ideas. 
• Maui, Hawaii, offers panoramic vistas, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, all basking in the warmth of the sun amidst the winter months.
• The best road trip ideas in December include Key Largo to Key West, Route 100, and New Orleans.
• Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, San Francisco to San Diego, and Maui, Hawaii, are some of the best winter road adventures you can experience on the West Coast. 

Best December Road Trip Ideas in the US

1. the florida keys: key largo to key west.

A must-try winter road trip is the Key Largo to Key West journey along the captivating Florida Keys. Enjoy water adventures in Key Largo, from jet skiing to scuba diving. Also, discover marine life at Robbie’s Waterfront, the Dolphin Research Center, and the Turtle Hospital. 

End your 157.2-kilometer journey in Key West, exploring Dry Tortugas National Park, savoring Key Lime Pie, and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home.

2. New York City to Pennsylvania

A winter road trip from New York City to Pennsylvania can be an exciting adventure. The distance between the two is approximately 354 kilometers, and it would take around 4 hours to drive without traffic. 

It’s a great way to visit popular stops along the way, like Liberty State Park, Penn State University, and Hershey Chocolate World.

3. Georgia and South Carolina

Ever wondered about a beautiful winter road trip through Georgia and South Carolina? Picture this: visits to charming savannas, parks like Amicalola Falls State Park, and historical spots like the Georgia Museum of Art.

The best part? Cozy beds and breakfasts at luxurious hotels are waiting. As you travel, savor tasty Southern cuisine and soak up the breathtaking scenery of the southeastern United States.

4. New Orleans

Winter in Louisiana is a perfect time for a road trip, with nippy weather that can drop to 17 degrees Celsius . Start your adventure in lively New Orleans, where a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour unveils top sites. Then, savor famous eats at Commander’s Palace, try a ghost tour for spooky tales, and enjoy the lively Palace Market at night.

You can also venture into the bayou for a rural experience and explore small towns like Houma and Thibodaux for a glimpse of everyday Louisiana life. 

5. Route 100, Vermont

Vermont’s Route 100 is a winter wonderland journey in quintessential New England. Known as “ Vermont’s Main Street ,” it winds through charming scenes—country stores, snowy forests, and white-steepled churches. 

The Green Mountains and Mad River Valley provide excellent skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and fishing at the lakes. As you explore Route 100, pause to buy maple syrup and taste Vermont cheddar cheese.

Related : Best Fall Vacations in the USA

6. Highway 101, Oregon Coast

Oregon’s Highway 101 hugs the Pacific with stunning ocean views. Winter unveils a stormy, moody scene with crashing waves on sea stacks. 

Check out roadside wonders like a drive-thru tree and quirky museums. Also, visit a cool college town called Eugene, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and Cannon Beach with the iconic Haystack Rock.

7. The Catskills and Hudson Valley, NY

Escape NYC chaos with a 69-kilometer road trip to the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. Once a refuge, it is now accessible for day or week trips.

Fall brings vibrant colors—ideal for a long weekend of hiking or apple picking in the crisp air of picturesque villages. Go ahead and check out artists’ communities, whitewater rafting, and the Borscht Belt’s history.

8. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina

Winter in the Smoky Mountains is perfect for a road trip with snowy peaks, scenic drives, and fun activities like skiing and snowshoeing. Enjoy winter festivals like Winterfest in Gatlinburg and spot wildlife like deer and elk. You can stay in cozy cabins or luxury resorts—there’s something for every budget.

9. Hocking Hills, Ohio

The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is a 26.4-mile road that links six Hocking Hills State Park sites, making it popular. Even though the drive is short, it’s awesome for a day trip with cool stops and short hikes along the way. 

Check out some must-see spots on the scenic byway, like the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve and the Cantwell Cliffs.

Related : The Best Romantic Winter Getaways for Couples

Best Winter Road Trips on the West Coast

10. salt lake city to las vegas.

Did you know a winter road trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas is about 643.74 kilometers? The adventure takes 5–5.5 hours, so it’s best to check road conditions and weather forecasts for smooth travel. 

Tour Arches National Park, Zion National Park, and the Hoover Dam along the way. Don’t forget warm clothes— temperatures can drop a lot in winter.

11. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is awesome for a winter road trip. It’s mesmerizing, with waterfalls and big mountains. In the winter, fewer people visit, so you can take your time on the trails and see everything. Just remember warm clothes, although sometimes roads close because of snow.

12. Las Vegas to Los Angeles

If you’re planning a winter road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, you will need to consider potential snow and ice along the way, so be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate gear. 

The drive is about 434.5 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours without traffic. You can either take US-93 S or I-15 S, with the latter being the shorter route. Along the way, you can stop at attractions such as the Grand Canyon and Lake Havasu City. 

13. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii, is a cool winter getaway with nice weather and beautiful views. A road trip is a fun way to explore the island, like the pretty Hana Highway, Haleakala National Park, and nice beaches in Kihei and Lahaina. 

Check out cultural spots too, like Lahaina town and the Haleakala Sunrise Tour. Pack warm clothes for cooler nights, around mid-15 degrees Celsius, and wear comfy shoes for walking around and seeing everything.

14. Zion National Park to Moab National Park, Utah

A winter road trip from Zion to Moab promises snow-capped mountains, beautiful landscapes, and winter fun. Enjoy activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

Visit the unique rock formations in Arches National Park and visit Canyonlands National Park for stunning views. Also, don’t miss the Moab Giants Monument , featuring life-size dinosaurs—an exciting attraction along the 492-kilometer drive.

15. Phoenix, Arizona, To Death Valley

Ever wondered how close Death Valley is to Phoenix? Just a three-hour drive takes you through national parks and scenic routes. Don’t miss activities at Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park—all near Death Valley.

16. Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego

The iconic Pacific Coast Highway spans around 3,218 kilometers of California’s coast. Winter drives offer cool weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. 

Experience the beauty of dark cliffs, expansive beaches, and winding coastal roads. Notable stops include Big Sur, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hearst Castle, Malibu, and Santa Monica.

Related : Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

The winter months provide a unique charm for road trips in the USA, with fewer crowds and stunning winter landscapes.

The Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego offers an extended coastal journey, showcasing the beauty of the West Coast.

Start by selecting your desired destinations, planning your route, ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready, and packing accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable road trip.

The duration depends on your chosen route, but a week-long road trip allows for a well-paced and immersive experience.

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Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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The Best Winter Road Trips in the U.S.

Why winter is the best time to take a leisurely trip through the south or visit utah’s popular national parks..

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The desert is one landscape that’s easier to explore in the winter than summer.

Photo by Colorful Moments/Shutterstock

Winter road trips in the United States can take many forms: sun baking the windshield as you enter the Mojave Desert en route to Joshua Tree, or chain-clad tires gripping the winding mountain roads of Vermont or Utah. Hitting the Great American highways anytime from November through late February could lead to well-loved destinations during their shoulder season, or to hot, dry corners of the country when many temperatures aren’t quite as high. Prices often come down in January and allow for more opportunities for lingering without the crowds. It all depends on what you want: world-class food, national parks, arts and culture, all of the above.

With that in mind, here are six of the best road trips to take this winter across the U.S., all tested and recommended by AFAR staff and contributors.

1. Explore California’s deserts

• Start: Los Angeles
• End: Joshua Tree National Park
• Distance: 150 miles
• Recommended time: 4–5 days

While California’s Pacific Coast Highway is a treat no matter the season, head inland for a taste of the Golden State’s desert—without the overbearing heat. From Los Angeles, head east for about 100 miles on I-10 to Palm Springs. Or if time is on your side, try I-60, a slightly longer and more scenic route that passes through Riverside, home of the historic Mission Inn Hotel and Spa , dating back to 1876. Any one of the half-dozen dining spots at the hotel makes for a photogenic lunch break.

From there, it’s only an hour east to the desert oasis of Palm Springs . Consider bunking for two nights here, anywhere from Arrive by Palisociety , a hip adults-only hotel with 32 rooms in the Uptown Design District, to family-friendly Hyatt Regency Indian Wells with its seven outdoor pools. Sensei Porcupine Creek in nearby Rancho Mirage offers an even more upscale, wellness-focused retreat. Consult our 48-hour guide for ideas on where to eat and play, or book now to visit during Palm Springs’ International Film Festival in January.

Change gears (metaphorically and physically) after this tony town and make for Joshua Tree National Park . You don’t have to spend much time in the 1,242 square-mile park to admire its namesake twisted, prickly “trees.” But we recommend at least an overnight stay at a Joshua Tree–area Airbnb : The options are varied and whimsical, everything from renovated Airstreams to a luxury high desert lodge designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright protégé. Go for a hike, collapse with a cold drink on a patio beneath the stars, and consider the good life for a moment.

Hit the slopes and road in Vermont.

Photo by Anton Vattay/Shutterstock

2. Travel through Vermont’s snowy mountains

• Start: Stowe
• End: Woodstock
• Distance: 130 miles
• Recommended time: 3 days

Vermont is well associated with fall road trips, in part thanks to its leaf peeping ( should we even use that term? ) opportunities. But during the winter, snowcapped perfect-for-skiing mountains become the star of the show. Consider this winter New England road trip for a getaway weekend bookended by stays in Stowe and Woodstock, which are home to some of the state’s best-known ski areas.

The trip starts in Stowe, where you can ski 116 trails across the resort’s terrain . Enjoy an après-ski session of raclette and whiskey at WhistlePig Pavilion off Spruce Peak , or post up to hear live music at Stowe stalwart the Matterhorn , “infamous since 1959.” Overnighting options range from the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge , a family-friendly resort where the outdoor hot tub seats 20, to well-appointed Airbnbs in the town of Stowe itself.

From there, drive around 40 miles east on I-89 to Burlington, a lakeside town of 45,000. The town is the ideal place to catch your breath after a day on Stowe’s slopes and fill up on other wintery activities like ice skating in Arthur Park or viewing the holiday lights on Church Street. Accommodations can get limited in Burlington during its winter high season, so it’s best to book early. This Airbnb guesthouse with a yard and deck is among Vermont’s best , as it’s within walking distance of Burlington’s downtown, the city’s waterfront, and the Church Street Marketplace.

On your third and final day, drive 90 miles via Highway 89 to get to Woodstock, a town close to one of the oldest ski areas in the country . Along the way, you’ll get views of mountains like Mansfield Mountain and a chance to stop by the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury.

There are very few stretches of U.S. highway as breathtaking as the Overseas Highway in Florida.

Shutterstock

3. Follow Florida’s “floating highway” to Key West

• Start: Miami, Florida
• End: Key West, Florida
• Distance: 165 miles
• Recommended time: 2–3 days

Running from Miami all the way south and west to the tip of the Florida Keys, this scenic stretch of U.S. Route 1 follows the course of the historic Florida and East Coast Railroad. A hurricane knocked out the tracks in 1935, but a few years later the route reopened as a highway. Nowadays, it has many names: the Overseas Highway, “the floating highway,” the highway of 42 bridges. They’re all accurate depictions of the route, often suspended high above the archipelago of some 1,600 islands, whisking visitors past palm trees, beaches, coral reefs, and crocodile habitats.

Begin the drive in Miami, mapping toward Florida City and the beginning of “the Stretch,” 18 miles of Highway 1 connecting mainland Florida to the Keys. (Some may detour to Card Sound Road for conch fritters at the famous local/biker beach bar Alabama Jack’s, but this highway has been under repair in 2023.) Arrive in Key Largo by way of the Jewfish Creek Bridge, a 65-foot-high span with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay. Once here, you’re almost obliged to have your first taste of Key lime pie at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen , a local institution, before moving on to Islamadora. This village of six keys has one of the biggest downtowns between Miami and Key West; within is Morada Way Arts and Culture District , a nexus of shops and galleries that also has one of the Keys’ liveliest Art Walks, with live music and late-night gallery openings every third Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Stay overnight at the (brand-new in 2024) Postcard Inn Resort and Marina and grab a hearty shrimp-and-grits breakfast at Green Turtle Inn before moving on.

Traveling with kids? Pit stop in Marathon, Florida, home to Aquarium Encounters (touch, feed, and tank dive with coral-reef creatures) and Marathon Wild Bird Center , where you can see birds being rehabilitated before they’re released.

Final destination—aka Mile Marker 0—is Key West, where visitors can shop, snorkel, kiteboard, and kitsch out to their heart’s content. There’s an experience for everyone down here; venture off the beaten path with a Key West Food Tour . Seek the six-toed cats at the Hemingway Home and Museum, and linger over cocktails poolside at the Southernmost Beach Resort.

New Orleans is a festive place to visit all year round.

Photo by Colin D. Young/Shutterstock

4. Tour historic cities of the South

• Start: Charleston, South Carolina
• End: New Orleans, Louisiana
• Distance: 750 miles, give or take
• Recommended time: 10–14 days

Charleston , New Orleans (not counting the visitor uptick during Mardi Gras ), and Savannah are a few cities in the U.S. South that experience their low season during the colder months. Take advantage of their off-season prices—and lack of humidity—to tour the Gothic, antebellum, French, and other influences that have given these cities their character.

Start with a few days in Charleston, whose food scene is reason enough to visit. (We also recommend Charleston Culinary Tours —shout-out to guide Dana Levine!—for a primer on local eats.) The biggest draw these days, though, is the striking new International African American Museum , set at Gadsden’s Wharf, where an estimated 40 percent of enslaved Africans entered the country. Pair that with a stop at the Old Slave Mart Museum for an honest look at the city’s past. Charleston also has more than its share of stylish, standout boutique hotels within the main corridor; we want to check out new kids the Pinch and the Loutrel on our next visits. (Read on for our full Charleston travel guide .)

Too full of Lowcountry dishes to move? Save some room for the next stop: Drive south on U.S. Highway 17 and I-95 for about 100 miles to reach Savannah, Georgia. The city’s oak trees drip with Spanish moss, creating that haunting vibe, and restaurants and hotels all have heaps of character. Experience the energy of Savannah’s riverfront firsthand with a stay in the 193-room Thompson Savannah . The hotel opened in August 2021 and was intentionally designed to be perpendicular to the Savannah River to maximize view potential. It also has the highest rooftop in the city (in the spirit of, once again, maximizing views).

Coming soon is Hotel Bardo , by the people behind Perry Lane Hotel , set to open early 2024; its Italian restaurant Saint Bibiana is ready to feed you now, though. Savannah locals also love the food and vibes at Brochu’s , Common Thread , Dottie’s Market , the Wyld (waterfront views), and the very cool Strangebird inside an old Streamliner car. (Read on for more of the best things to do in Savannah .)

From Savannah, turn toward the Big Easy on an inland route, crossing cities like Macon and Montgomery and visiting key markers on the Civil Rights Trail . Allocate 1.5–2 weeks for this road trip so that any extra stops don’t feel rushed.

Once in NOLA, make Hotel Peter and Paul your base in the Marigny, only a few blocks from Frenchman Street (New Orleans’s main live-music drag) and on the outskirts of the French Quarter, and settle in for days of art, music, bourbon, and beignets. (Read on for the best things to do in New Orleans. )

Don’t miss a stroll down the River Walk during the winter.

Photo by cheng cheng/Shutterstock

5. Visit the Christmas towns of Texas

• Start: Grapevine
• End: San Antonio
• Distance: 355 miles

Texas’s bigger-and-better spirit doesn’t hibernate during the winter, when Christmas injects its cities and towns with eye-catching liveliness.

Start the festivities in Grapevine, the government-official Christmas Capital of Texas , which celebrates 40 days of merriment just outside of Dallas. The North Pole Express may already be sold out, but the Christmas market in the Town Square Gazebo is in full swing this month and is a great introduction to local artists and makers. From Grapevine, head back toward Dallas for an overnight stay at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , a former private estate turned iconic Uptown hotel. (Alternatively, check into the Joule , a contemporary, artful downtown boutique hotel.)

Although you could stay several days in Dallas–Fort Worth alone, you’re on the hunt for the Christmas spirit, so press on the next day to Fredericksburg, about 262 miles south. The I-35 S takes you through Waco, so make time for a pit stop at Chip and Joanna’s Magnolia Market before arriving in Fredericksburg . The historically German town puts a European spin on the holiday with a traditional German Christmas Pyramid and Christmas Nights of Lights each evening in the Marktplatz . Shop along Main Street and book a night at Barons CreekSide , a Texas take on a Swiss log cabin village, set on a vineyard a few minutes down the road.

The next day, drive 70 more miles south via U.S. 87 and I-10 and you’ll land at your final stop in San Antonio. Throughout December, the city’s River Walk becomes one of the state’s most iconic holiday destinations, so admire the multicolored lights on your riverside stroll and stay close to the holiday action at the Canopy by Hilton . The hotel’s 195 rooms feature colorful art, textiles, and tilework to pay homage to San Antonio’s culture and history—matching the bright decorations you’ll find exploring the city. Don’t miss its open-air Otro Bar , and keep the celebration going with a handcrafted cocktail and south Texas–inspired small bites.

Red rocks and white snow are a gorgeous combination.

Photo by Donald Giannatti/Unsplash

6. Enjoy Utah’s “Big 5 ” national parks

• Start: Zion National Park
• End: Arches National Park
• Distance: 380 miles
• Recommended time: 7–10 days

According to the National Park Service , 70 percent of visitors for Zion National Park—Utah’s most visited—come between April and September. By contrast, the months of December through February received only 2–3 percent of its annual visitors per month. What this means for you: virtually no crowds, ample parking, and lower prices at stellar Camp Sarika by Amangiri or new glamping hot spots like AutoCamp Zion . (Note that temperatures hover in the 50s during the day, but can drop below freezing at night.) It’s also a chance to witness the red rocks of Utah’s parks contrast with the white snow—a sight those summer tourists miss.

As with all road trips on this list, you can modify this journey however you want. But for this particular itinerary, carve out (at least) a week and start near Zion National Park, with AutoCamp Zion as your base. Then head east two hours to Bryce Canyon National Park. Despite being one of the smaller national parks, Bryce has the highest concentration of otherworldly hoodoos on Earth. (Stay at Bryce Canyon Lodge in the winter and Under Canvas Bryce Canyon in the summer.) Then on to Capitol Reef, about two hours northeast, where a more compact but no less stunning national park awaits. Get a taste via the 7.9-mile Scenic Drive , or stay longer and overnight at the Lodge at Red River Ranch . Complete the pursuit of Utah’s “Big Five” at Canyonlands and Arches national parks, another—you guessed it—two hours east. The parks don’t have their own lodges but nearby Moab has several options.

There are also many excursions not in Utah’s national parks, and seasonal opportunities—like skiing in Bryce Canyon , where its high elevation makes it one of the few places in the Big Five with consistent snow—that warrant an extra day or two.

Want to tack on something special? Go big at Amangiri , with its ultra-luxe suites, tents, and pavilions near Zion and Bryce. (Although it’s closer still to the four corners of Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, accessible via Page airport in Arizona and very near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.)

It’s important to note that winter road trips require an extra layer of precaution. Snow may mount; storms may roll in, making a road unusable at a moment’s notice. Make sure you’re always well-packed and up to date on conditions affecting your road trip destination before embarking.

This article was originally published in December 2022. It was updated with new information and recommendations on Dec 4 2023.

10 Perfect Winter Road Trip Destinations in the USA

These 10 winter road trip ideas are the perfect way to spend your last remaining vacation days of the year.

Whether you’re looking to play in the snow or enjoy a sunny day at the beach, an adventurous road trip is the perfect way to end the year.

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Table of Contents

10 Winter Road Trip Destinations

These 10 Winter Road Trip Destinations are intended to inspire a fun and adventurous road trip during your time off over the holidays.

I’ve included destinations on both the east coast and west coast of the United States, so hopefully you’ll find a destination that inspires you.

I encourage you to add other stops to your winter road trip and make it your own. Spontaneity is the best part of a road trip, so embrace your sense of adventure.

As with any road trip, be sure to look into weather and winter driving conditions before you head out. For some destinations you may need snow chains depending on the route you select.

No matter the destination you choose, travel with an open mind and you never know what you’ll find.

Traveling Soon? Don’t forget your travel insurance.

• Travel insurance is now more important than ever.
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1. Yosemite National Park

One of my own favorite winter road trips on the west coast is a Yosemite road trip . I absolutely love exploring National Parks, and in my opinion, Yosemite is one of the most beautiful parks in the country.

If visiting Yosemite during the winter be sure to bring warm clothing and to dress in layers. You’ll also want thick socks and hiking boots to keep your feet warm on the trails.

If entering the park from the west, be sure to stop at the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and to take a walk around Wawona before heading down to Yosemite Valley.

The road to Mariposa Grove closes around the end of November, but you can still snowshoe or cross country ski along the trails.

Don’t forget to stop at Tunnel View on your way into the valley. This is one of the best photo spots in the park and you don’t want to miss it.

Many of Yosemite’s biggest attractions like Half Dome, El Capitan, the Mist Trail, and Bridal Veil Falls, can all be seen and enjoyed from Yosemite Valley. So after you get checked into your accommodations, get back out there and enjoy this beautiful park.

If you’re looking for other natural beauty near Yosemite, consider stopping by Lake Tahoe as well.

Lake Tahoe is a fun destination any time of year, but especially in winter. You can find all kinds of outdoor winter activities from skiing to snowboarding to sledding.

2. Yellowstone National Park

Those of you who love wildlife as much as I do will really enjoy Yellowstone National Park. If you happen to be coming from the North, I recommend a Billings to Yellowstone road trip so you can travel along the Beartooth Highway.

The Beartooth HIghway will take you along a moutainous stretch of highway with incredible views of Montana andy Wyoming along the way.

Once you make it to Yellowstone I encourage you to make your way through the park slowly to soak up all that natural beauty.

Some of my favorite things to see in Yellowstone were the Bison in Lamar Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Upper Geysir Basin, and of course, Old Faithful.

If you can afford to stay at the accommodations inside the park, I encourage you to do so. Prices can be as high as $200 to $300 per night, but you’ll have more time in the park this way.

At night, be sure to get outside if you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a clear night. The area near Old Faithful is a populuar spot for stargazing.

If you’re a morning person, get up for the sunrise. You can enjoy a peaceful morning with many areas of the park all to yourself. Well, you and the animals.

3. Pacific Coast Highway

If you’re looking for a winter road trip with a little more sunshine, head to the Golden state and drive the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

An SF to LA road trip will take you south along the PCH to view the stunning California coastline. It’s a beautiful drive from start to finish and you’ll get to see some of the state’s best destinations.

I recommend a few days in San Francisco before heading south. While in San Francisco you can see the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Haight Ashbury District, North Beach, and Golden Gate Park.

After leaving the city, this road trip will take you to Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, Pismo Beach, Santa Barbara, and Solvang just to name a few.

This road trip is best done over a few days, I suggest at least three days once you depart San Francisco. The best stops for an overnight are in Monterey, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara.

Once you arrive in Los Angeles, be sure to visit Santa Monica, Venice, Melrose, Griffith Park, and the downtown Arts District.

4. Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a perfect winter road trip destination for those in the Pacific Northwest.

The Columbia River Gorge is situated along the Columbia River in between the states of Washington and Oregon. If you love the outdoors, this is the place to be, especially in the winter.

Some of the biggest attractions in the area are Latourell Falls, Bridge of the Gods, Stonehenge Memorial, and Wahkeena Falls. For impressive views of the Columbia River Gorge area, make your way up to Crown Point.

The most popular stop along the Columbia River is the famous Multnomah Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon.

Depending on the weather during the time of your visit, the waterfall may be frozen over, but its beautiful no matter the time of year.

Popular outdoor activities in the Columbia River Gorge in winter are cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and hiking. Be sure to dress warm for the cold weather.

If you make Portland your starting point, be sure to visit the city’s many great restaurants and breweries before you head out. It’s a fun city you don’t want to miss.

5. Miami, Florida

If you’re looking for sunny beaches on your winter road trip, make Miami Beach your destination. With temperatures in December averaging in the high 70s and low 80s, you can end the year soaking up the sun on one of the country’s prettiest beaches.

Nearby South Beach is home to some of the most impressive Art Deco architecture in the world. Get up early to enjoy a peaceful walk along Ocean Drive. You’ll have the beach on one side and the pretty pastel Art Deco buildings on the other.

Miami is also a great destination for food. There are lots of impressive restaurants in Miami Beach, South Beach, and Miami proper. One of my favorites was Planta South Beach. It was so good I actually went back again the next night. Get the dumplings.

I also recommend a food tour in Little Havana. You’ll get to learn about Cuban culture, the history of the neighborhood, meet some locals, and of course, sample some incredible Cuban cuisine. The mojito was my favorite. What can I say?

If you’re interested in street art, head over to Wynwood Walls , its an outdoor musuem featuring street art from local and international artists.

Finally, don’t forget to spend a day or two at the beach. Most hotels in Miami Beach will have beach chairs and towels ready for you. Arrive early to get a good spot.

If you’d like even better beaches, head to Key West in the Florida Keys for a day or two. This is where you’ll find the sparkling blue waters with white sandy beaches.

6. Washington D.C.

If you you’re looking for an east coast winter road trip, consider making your way to the nation’s capital Washington D.C.

D.C. is a fun city to visit any time of year, but it’s especially nice under a fresh blanket of snow.

While in D.C. I recommend making visis to the many musuems along the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, the Capital Building and the White House.

If you’ve been to D.C. before you should consider doing day trips to Arlington National Cemetery or Gettysburg.

I also recommend exploring the Georgetown neighborhood if you have the time. It’s a beautiful part of the city to walk around in with cute restaurants and cafes, a historic university, and of course, some really spectacular houses.

If you happen to be traveling from New York City, you may also wish to make stops in Newark, Philadelphia, and Wilmington. Each of these cities is worth exploring for a day or two as well, especially Philadelphia.

7. Grand Canyon

A Grand Canyon road trip is always a great idea, especially in the winter. You’ll get to experience one of the most unique national parks in the country, but without all the crowds.

If you’re really lucky, you might even get a little snow. But either way, the Grand Canyon is perfect during the winter months.

Some of my favorite things to see at the south rim of the Grand Canyon are the Desert View Watchtower and lookout, the Abyss, and Hermit’s Rest Viewpoint.

You absolutely must catch at least one sunset and one sunrise during your time at the Grand Canyon. Plan to catch your sunset at one of the park’s most western viewpoints like Hermit’s Rest.

I would plan to catch sunrise at Desert View if you can, but really any viewpoint is good for sunrise.

If you’re driving to the Grand Canyon from Los Angeles, consider stops in Palm Springs, Joshua Tree and Sedona.

If you’d like to explore more of the Southwestern United States, consider heading into Utah to visit Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, Monument Valley, and Salt Lake City.

8. Sedona, Arizona

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation and some natural beauty, consider an Arizona winter road trip to Sedona.

Sedona, Arizona is best known for its massive red rock formations and spiritual wellness retreats. It’s stunning desert landscape makes it a popular destination for hiking, biking, and trail running.

The most popular destinations in Sedona are Cathedral Rock, Slide Rock State Park, and Chapel of the Holy Cross Cathedral.

Sedona is also known as an excellent location for stargazing. In fact, due to the minimal light pollution, it’s one of the best places in the country for both stargazing and astralphotography.

If you get a clear night sky during your visit, you must head outside for a while and enjoy the view. Don’t forget the wine.

9. Las Vegas

If you’re looking for a place to party and really let loose during the long winter months, make your way to sin city.

While Vegas is well known for its casinos and dance clubs, it also has great restaurants, tons of live music venues, musuems, and natural beauty just a short drive away.

You can wake up to a fancy breakfast at the hotel then spend the day lounging around the pool.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Mob Musuem or Neon Musuem . If you’ve been to these spots already, consider a drive out to Hoover Dam, Death Valley National Park, or Area 51 instead.

At night, make reservations at a 5 star restaurant then head out for cocktails at one of the city’s many bars. I recommend Frankie’s Tiki Room .

10. Palm Springs

For a more relaxing winter escape, consider enjoying a few days in Palm Springs. You can spend your days lounging at the pool while sipping fruity cocktails.

For those into art and architecture, consider an architecture tour to see all the incredible mid-century modern homes dotting the neighborhoods of Palm Springs. The history of Palm Springs is fascinating, so the tours are well worth your time.

In the evenings, head out to Palm Canyon Drive for dinner and drinks. You’ll find plenty of great dining options and some really fun bars. I recommend the Tonga Hut if you’re into tiki bars with strong drinks.

I hope you’ve found some inspiration from these 10 Winter Road Trip Destinations in the USA. If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it. Thanks for reading.

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33 Best Winter Vacations in the USA

Posted on Last updated: December 5, 2023

Home » USA Travel Inspiration » 33 Best Winter Vacations in the USA

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Looking for incredible winter vacations in the US? We’ve got you! This inspiring article features 33 perfect places to visit in the winter as well as the most delightful winter escapes.

As one of the most culturally and geographically diverse countries in the world, the US boasts an incredible variety of winter getaways for all tastes.

Snow, beaches, mountains, cities, national parks, you name it–great America has it all!

And, as the summer comes to an end, it’s time to plan your winter vacation in the US. Whether you prefer snowy or sunny winter vacations, this article will give you some incredible ideas for your USA bucket list .

Here’s the list of best winter vacation spots in the US.

Table of Contents

Best Winter Destinations in the USA

These are the best places to visit in the winter in no particular order. Enjoy!

1. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas , is not only one of the best places to visit in the state but also one of the state’s most touristic cities.

Its moderate Southern climate and charming atmosphere make it a great destination for a winter getaway in the US.

Located midway between oil-city Houston and hip-town Austin, San Antonio preserves a unique vacation vibe unlike the mega-cities just hours away. 

It also holds an interesting piece of history, as it is the first chartered civil settlement in Texas, and as such, there are numerous things to do in the city.

The Alamo, the Riverwalk, the five historic missions, and San Fernando Cathedral are just some of the attractions of this incredible place.

As the city’s temperature generally stays above 60℉ on the coldest of its days, a casual walk along the riverbank is an enticing way to spend an evening with family and friends. 

San Antonio’s riverside is complete with adorable architecture, fancy restaurants, small shops, and street musicians.

During Christmas , holiday lights further accentuate its charm. 

Whether you’re spending a weekend in San Antonio or a week, endless hours can be spent here enjoying the contrast between nature and modernity, chatters, and serenity. San Antonio is definitely one of the best winter destinations in Texas!

We have a complete guide on where to stay in San Antonio ! Check it out!

2. Beaver Creek, Colorado

A stone’s throw west of Vail lies the postcard picture mountain village of Beaver Creek.

This is the home of the famous Beaver Creek Resort, which attracts hundreds of athletes and spectators every December for one of the world’s premier ski events.

With no less than 1800 acres of terrain that range from gentle slopes to steep bumps to thrill skiers of all skills, this picturesque village offers much more than snow-related activities.

The performing arts center, children’s museum, and the numerous hiking trails on the edge of the village ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

An abundance of coffee shops and restaurants provide a wide range of mouth-watering sensations to suit all tastes and budgets.

If all this is not enough for you, the unbelievable views of the Rocky Mountain from virtually every spot in Beaver Creek are something you will not forget for a while.

Click here for accommodation in Beaver Creek!

3. Yosemite National Park, California

This national treasure is famous for its all-year-round breathtaking scenery of soaring granite monoliths, spectacular waterfalls, lakes, and deep valleys with towering ancient sequoias decorating this stunning landscape.

With the first snowfall, the Yosemite National Park is transformed into a fairy-tale winter land, making it one of the best places to visit in the winter season.

No matter where you are, spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range are in every direction.

Among the must-see sights are the El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Tenaya Lake, Tunnel View, and Glacier Point. Catching the Firefall at sunset on Horsetail Falls could easily be the highlight for photographers.

The February setting sun ignites the frozen falls in a blaze of red-orange cascading fire that is a sight to behold. 

Accommodation is available to suit everyone – from luxury resorts to camping. Kayaking, hiking on snowshoe trails among the giant redwoods, skiing, snow playing, ice skating, and just taking in the spectacular scenery make Yosemite one of the best winter vacations in the US for any family.

Click here for accommodation in Yosemite National Park!

4. Key West, Florida

If you’re scratching for a winter getaway in the USA that does not involve cold, snow, or rain, there is no better place than the country’s southernmost point – Key West, Florida!

This tiny island can even be reached by car from the mainland via the Overseas Highway that runs through the Florida Keys. (Top it off with a stop in Miami Beach!)

The island’s tropical climate, with winter temperatures varying between 64-80°F, makes Key West one of the best winter vacations in the US. 

Without a doubt, this island paradise has everything for anyone with a passion for sandy beaches and the ocean.

Fort Zachary Taylor Park, Higgs Beach, and the offshore Dry Tortugas offer excellent snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, and fishing, cruising aboard a glass-bottom boat, or just lazing in the sun. Is there a better way to escape the winter blues?  

Art galleries, antique shops, theaters, and several museums, will keep the culture vultures occupied for days.

Countless eateries offer scrumptious local seafood like lobster, shrimp, and freshly caught fish, while street performers will keep you entertained. 

And all this, while the rest of the country is shivering and wrapped up in blankets. Yep, Key West is not a bad place to spend a winter vacation in the US!

Click here for accommodation in Key West!

5. Kings Canyon National Park, California

If you’re scratching your head for winter vacation ideas, look no further than the other national treasure that is Kings Canyon National Park.

This park easily rivals Yosemite for natural splendor, but one entrance fee also gets you into the adjacent and equally majestic Sequoia National Park. 

It’s spectacular scenery in the form of gigantic granite cliffs, deep glacier-carved valleys, the roaring Kings River, and dense forests of colossal sequoias to take your breath away.

Hike or ride on horseback through Grant Grove and view the General Grant, also known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the world’s second-largest tree!

More dramatic scenery can be viewed at Cedar Grove at the canyon’s bottom.

At the same time, Zumwalt Meadow, the massive stalagmites and stalactites of the marble cave at Boyden Cavern, and the 2000 ft high marble walls of Kings Gate and Windy Cliffs will leave you in awe.

Click here for accommodation in Kings Canyon National Park!

6. Vail, Colorado

If skiing is your game, then Vail just has to be a top contender for your next winter getaway.

As a perfect day trip from Denver , this dainty little town boasts of being one of the most favorite skiing destinations in the world!

Surrounded by 350,000 acres of pristine forests and over 5,000 acres of skiable slopes with breathtaking mountain scenery, Vail has everything to offer for that memorable family winter vacation.

Nestled in the foothills of the Vail Mountain range, this charming chocolate box picture town offers so much.

Apart from incredible skiing, snowboarding, skating, and all the usual snow activities for all skill levels, there are also unlimited shopping, dining, and lodging options to suit all tastes and pockets.

For the not so energetic, strolling through the heated cobblestone streets of Vail Village, Lionshead, and Golden Park, you will be awed by the stunning scenery around every corner. Photographers will not know when to stop clicking. 

Spending a few days in Vail could be one of the wisest winter vacation ideas you may ever have!

Cli ck here for accommodation in Vail!

7. Mount Hood, Oregon

Ascending to a height of 11,240 ft, Mt Hood stands in the center of the million-acre Mt. Hood National forest.

This dormant volcano, barely 90 minutes drive from Portland, is a major tourist attraction all year round. Still, it is the snow that turns this magnificent mountainous landscape into a magical winter playground.

Numerous family-friendly ski resorts, forest cabins, and basic camping facilities, all within proximity, offer an array of accommodation styles, winter activities, and breathtaking scenery.

Skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, hiking, snow playing, or taking leisurely sightseeing drives through this magical landscape during winter is something one would not forget for a while.  

Trillium Lake, Burnt Lake, Tamanawas Falls, and Ramona Falls are just a few must-see places, all offering magnificent views of Mount Hood as a backdrop. It is places like this that make winter such a special time of the year.

Click here for accommodation near Mount Hood!

8. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park is located on the Southwest Border of Mexico and Texas, adjacent to the Rio Grande River, and it is an excellent winter escape.

Since the highs in the national park reach well above 100℉, which results in some sections of the park being closed, Big Bend is one of the best places to visit in winter in the USA. (Arguably, one of the best national parks in Texas during wintertime too.)

The winter weather is mild, making hiking the trails much more comfortable. Plus, the park has hot springs where you can enjoy where you can get chilly!

The best activity in Big Bend is to simply hike. Some of the most popular hikes include the Lost Mine Trail, The Window View Trail, The Grapevine trail, The Boquillas Canyon Trail, and the Santa Elena Trail. 

One of my favorite trails is the Santa Elena Trail, as it takes you through the famous Santa Elena Canyon and the Rio Grande.

Another one of my favorite activities is enjoying the Hot Springs located on the Rio Grande. The trail to this hot spring is an easy 0.5 miles. 

The area can get crowded, so I recommend going around sunrise to enjoy this place all to yourselves. If you ever get too hot, take a refreshing dip on the Rio Grande River.

Big Bend National Park is not one of the more famous National Parks, but it is indeed a hidden gem and a great spot to visit during the winter months.

Click here to check accommodation near Big Bend National Park! 

Michelle at The Wandering Queen

9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Whenever people think of winter vacations in the US, it would not be unusual for Mount Rainier National Park to come to mind immediately.

Peaking at 14,410 ft above sea level, Mount Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range.

This active volcano is surrounded by 142 square miles of pristine wilderness terrain, decorated with ancient glaciers, blue alpine lakes, rivers, waterfalls, beautiful valleys, and picturesque meadows, teeming with wildlife.

Great places to visit would be Longmire, the park’s historic district and museum, Sunrise, for the majestic views of the mountain.

White River Campground and Ohanapecosh for the old-growth forest and stunning waterfall, Christine Falls and Reflection Lakes, where you view an almost unreal reflection of Mount Rainier on a still winter’s day.

Miles of trails cater for all fitness levels, but none more popular than the easy 1.1-mile hike at the Grove of the Patriarchs, where one can meander along the river, marveling at the ancient giant red cedars and Douglas firs.

A stunning place for any winter vacation in the US or any place else for that matter.

Click here for accommodation near Mount Rainier National Park!

10. Crested Butte, Colorado

This is another small town in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, where everything that can be done on snow is done here.

Crested Butte offers stunning lift-served skiing terrain, snowboarding, scenic Nordic ski routes, ice skating, snowshoe hiking, sleigh rides, and everything else you can think of…not to mention the magnificent mountain and wilderness scenery.

Lodging to suit everyone’s needs is aplenty, with the town offering more than sufficient shopping and a fantastic variety of gourmet eateries to satisfy all palates.

The beauty of this place is unparalleled, with all the amenities and recreation areas nearby. Free shuttle bus rides to the outlying ski areas are also available.

Click here for accommodation in Crested Butte!

11. Castle Rocks State Park, Idaho

If you’re looking to get away from it all, then this is the place for you!

Located at Big Cove at the base of the Albion Mountains, this state park offers numerous, incredible Nordic and snowshoe hiking trails amongst the most unusual terrain of expansive farmlands, enormous pine forests, and gigantic and dramatic rock formations sculptured by nature over millions of years.

This terrain is also the home of a variety of wildlife, such as moose, coyote, cougar, deer, and an abundance of birdlife, such as horned owls, northern shrike, and rough-legged hawk.

In winter, this landscape takes on an almost surreal look, with snow-covered rock pillars and caves forming bizarre giant icicles in all stages of freezing. A truly spectacular sight at every turn. 

Lodging is available at The Lodge at Castle Rock Ranch or in yurts, Mongolian-styled domed huts. Cute and comfortable.

If you are into rock climbing, you will be back in the summer!

Click here for accommodation near Castle Rocks State Park!

12. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Listen, let’s cut to the chase here – Just go there! 

Bryce Canyon is one of the most breathtaking national parks you will find anywhere!

And in the winter it becomes even more beautiful. But beware; at an elevation of over 8000 ft, the air is thin, and it gets pretty chilly. But it will be the canyon amphitheater itself that will take your breath away. 

A scenic drive through the park will take you to numerous viewpoints to appreciate one of nature’s true wonders.

The Bryce Amphitheatre is enormous. It is 12 miles long, 3 miles wide, and 800 ft deep. Millions of years of headward erosion have excavated this canyon, carving out cliffs and thousands of vertical multi-colored spires up to 200 ft high, with each one having its own district shape.

The rock faces are all shades of red, orange, and white, and a dusting of snow makes them all look even more beautiful. A photographer’s paradise!

If that doesn’t do it for you, you can do cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking, ice skating, sleigh riding, and snowmobiling in this 35,000-acre park, which includes forests and meadows teeming with a diverse range of wildlife. Lodging of all styles is readily available in and around the park.

Looking for vacation ideas for winter? Look no further.

Click here for accommodation near Bryce Canyon National Park!

13. Cibola National Forest, New Mexico

Less than 12 miles from Albuquerque lies another winter wonderland retreat – the Sandia Mountains in Cibola National Forest.

Deposits of potassium feldspar crystals within the outer granite layer give this mountain its distinct pink color, particularly at sunset, and thus its name – Sandia (Spanish for watermelon) 

This mountain also hosts the Sandia Peak Tramway, the longest tramway in North America and the second-longest in the world.

Ascending over 4,000 ft over a distance of 2.7 miles, the tram car will take you to the crest, where you can walk around the miles of trails and take in the panoramic views of Albuquerque below and hundreds of miles beyond the New Mexico landscape.

The crest can also be reached by a scenic drive where a restaurant and gift shop waits for you.

All the usual winter sports can be done here as well as hiking along the foothills of the mountain, among prickly-pear, wild sage, cactus, and pine forests.

Numerous ski resorts and hotels provide ample lodging, and the town itself offers all the dining and shopping amenities you could ever want.

Click here for accommodation near the Cibola National Forest!

14. San Diego, California

Looking for winter vacations in the US to escape the cold and snow? San Diego, southern California, is the perfect destination to escape the winter blues.

Well, where do we start? Firstly, the sun-drenched beaches along San Diego’s 100-mile coastline will draw you like a candle to a moth.

Amongst the numerous stunning sandy beaches, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Beach, and Coronado Beach rate amongst the best in the world.

Surfing, swimming (although the water can be a little chilly), kayaking, snorkeling, or just lazing in the sun are what people come here to do.

Entertainment here is endless. Harbor cruises, speedboat, and sailing adventures, and whale watching thrill locals and visitors all year round.

For the culture vultures, museums for all tastes, art galleries, theme parks, gardens will leave you in awe. The USS Midway, and the Air and Space Museums, are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a great way to see all the must-see sights, while the Ghost and Graveyard Tour will scare the living daylights out of you.

The Brothels, Bite, and Booze Tour, lets you sample the area’s culinary delights while taking you through San Diego’s questionable but intriguing past.

This place has everything for a delightful warm winter vacation . Need we say more?

Click here for accommodation in San Diego!

15. Sandpoint, Idaho

If you’re ready for a true winter vacation in the US, then head north to Sandpoint, Idaho.

Situated on the shoreline of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake, this city is encircled by the gorgeous Selkirk, Cabinet, and Bitterroot Mountain ranges, making it the perfect winter getaway destination. 

Numerous ski resorts, such as the Schweitzer, offer excellent ski slopes and snow-related activities for all skill levels.

The ski lift takes you up to the ski station, where the scenery is to die for. Stunning hiking trails are too numerous to mention, with all of them catering to all fitness levels and spectacular views of the rugged countryside, the lake, and the city below. 

 A must-do hike is the Serenity Lee Trail, which takes you on a long bridge across the lake, from where a postcard photo can be taken with virtually every step you take.

There is even a mini Statue of Liberty on the lake, but we leave you to find it for yourself. The Annual Winter Carnival is something you do not want to miss.

Needless to say, shopping and dining can be done to your heart’s content, while there is no shortage of lodging of all types in and around this fantastic city.

Click here for accommodation in Sandpoint!

16. Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, Montana is a wonderful winter destination, especially for those who love winter sports .

Skiing the Big Mountain is the first attraction that comes to mind.

With frequent dumps of knee-deep powder and inversions making the top of the mountain warmer than the valley, skiing the Fish offers endless on and off-piste opportunities.

If skiing isn’t fast enough for you, there is always the World “Skijoring” Championship held every January, where brave skiers are towed through an obstacle course by a horse. 

If that sounds more terrifying than fun, you can go snowshoeing in nearby Glacier National Park , and there are Nordic ski trails set around the golf course in town.

A visit to Whitefish isn’t complete without trying a burger at The Bulldog Saloon , where the bathrooms are as much of a reason for visiting as the food. 

That said, one of the best places to eat in Whitefish is Craggy Range , where there’s local craft beer on tap and slightly healthier options to balance out the Bulldog burger.

Click here to check accommodation in Whitefish!

17. Breckenridge, Colorado

If you’re looking for one of the best winter wonderlands in the US – Breckenridge, Colorado , has you covered.

This small city is nestled in a valley with several mountains of excellent skiing available and is a pleasant day trip from Denver.

What makes Breckenridge unique is its Victorian mining town roots. The main street is not only adorable, but it’s also very walkable and has lovely shops. 

There are play areas and museums for the kids and plenty of choices for the adults. Park your car and walk almost everywhere or catch a bus.

The ski resort is probably one of the best in the world and frequently hosts international events. 

Don’t like to ski or prefer other activities?

Breckenridge (or nearby resorts) has snowmobile rentals, carriage rides, snowcat tours, ice/snow sculpture contests, snowshoe hiking, indoor and outdoor ice skating, and much more. 

Some favorite things to do include taking the gondola up to the base of peak eight and sipping hot chocolate while watching the ski slopes.

Warning: the hot chocolate is very good but very rich. 

Also, it’s fun just exploring the town and enjoying some crepes. If you’re hungry for some hardy post-snow day meals – Eric’s is the place to go. There will be a wait, but it’s oh, so yummy.

Click here to check accommodation in Breckenridge!

From Lori at Fitz5 on the go

18. Sugarite Canyon State Park, New Mexico

Situated just 20 miles from the city of Raton lies a little gem for any outdoor and wildlife enthusiast.

Tiny compared to other state parks, this 3,600-acre park, nature has crammed in so much natural beauty, with dramatic canyons, gentle meadows, creeks, forests, scenic lakes, and abundant wildlife.

Taking all this while camping at the two campgrounds, within this truly magnificent setting, allows one to disconnect with the world and reconnect with nature totally.

Hiking through Sugarite Canyon is simply fantastic, and so is the brand new Lake-to-Lake trail, both providing breathtaking scenery from start to finish.

And when the ice is safe enough, ice fishing on Lake Alice may provide you with a unique experience and a tasty dinner too. 

The visitor center will also give you a short history of this coal mining area of the 19th Century and all other intriguing information on this calm and tranquil part of the world.

Click here for hotels near Sugarite Canyon State Park!

19. Boston, Massachusetts

Founded in 1630, Boston is an incredible city filled with history, beautiful neighborhoods, and good food.

The city has lots of fascinating attractions, including the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Fenway Park, and Newbury Street. Still, there are also lots of romantic things to do in Boston .

Beyond that, the city is also home to the world-renowned Ivy League Harvard University, and an afternoon in the vibrant Harvard Square is a must.

As winter arrives on the East Coast and Boston is covered in a blanket of snow, the city is a real treat to visit, and there’s still plenty to see and do. 

Boat rides are replaced by ice skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond, and the Skywalk Observatory perfectly showcases the city’s beauty from above. 

A cold craft beer is a perfect excuse to warm up, the Harpoon Brewery is our favorite, and a spot of indoor shopping at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace will provide shelter from the winter weather!

Boston is renowned for its museums, and they are a cozy escape in the winter.

We love the stained glass globe at the Mapparium in the Mary Baker Eddy Library and discovering more about American history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

Click here to check accommodation in Boston!

From Elaine at Show Them the Globe

20. Page, Arizona

Most people have no idea what or where Page is, and it’s no surprise why.

Antelope Canyon is the highlight in the area, and most people don’t give Page a second glance with the natural wonders just beyond town…

But there’s some good news and some bad news about the area… 

Bad news first: It gets incredibly busy at Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon.

The good news: You’re going to be visiting in winter when it’s still just as ridiculously gorgeous, but the crowds are cut in half.

Even more good news? There’s more to Antelope Canyon than Upper and Lower! There are other slot canyons just as beautiful with even fewer people visiting! 

We visited in winter, and there were literally only us in the canyons!

Antelope Canyon in winter is a perfect time to visit, and don’t forget the nearby Horseshoe Bend as it’s a must-see as well.

Click here to check accommodation in Page!

From Nina at Where in the world is Nina?

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

Hearty food, chilly-but-not-freezing weather, cozy jazz clubs, and buckets of southern charm: New Orleans is one of the best winter vacations.

(And it turns out, it is also a fantastic spring break destination in the US !)

While summers are sweltering in New Orleans, winters are surprisingly mild–and offer the bonus of Christmas decor during the season!

All the famous New Orleans attractions, from Bourbon Street to beignets, are still waiting to welcome you with open arms in the winter, and the lack of humidity and crowds are a nice bonus.

Visiting the bayou, touring a plantation, indulging in a ghost tour, and exploring the famous cemeteries of New Orleans are all still tons of fun while wearing a coat.

(And honestly, sometimes winter in New Orleans doesn’t even require a coat!).

Since one of the best things to do in New Orleans is savor its delicious food, you’ll be delighted to know that gumbo, muffulettas, fried chicken, beignets, jambalaya, and more all taste even better when it’s a bit cold outside!

The best advice for winter in New Orleans applies year-round: come hungry and ready for a great time, and you’ll end up finding exactly what you’re looking for.

Click here to check accommodation in New Orleans!

From Kate at Our Escape Clause

22. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah, is the perfect ski destination. They have four world-class ski resorts right within the city limits, so you are never more than forty minutes from Salt Lake’s famous powdery snow. 

The skiing is “steep and deep” in Salt Lake, which means that you will find more snowfall than any other North American ski destination, and the terrain offers challenging runs.

Each of the four resorts caters to a different clientele, so there is something for everyone in Salt Lake. Solitude is good for people who like wide runs and open spaces. 

Brighton is great for snowboarders. Snowbird has steep terrain best for upper-intermediate and experts. Alta (my favorite) is a no-frills resort that gets the most snow of any resort in Utah.

But there’s more to Salt Lake than just skiing. City Creek Canyon has pedestrian-friendly trails that are open year-round.

Millcreek Canyon closes for the winter and offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in a dog-friendly forest. 

There is also a fifty-one-mile trail along the Jordan River that is open to hikers, runners, and bikes.

Contrary to cultural stereotypes, Salt Lake also has a surprisingly robust craft beer scene and great coffee shops. 

So, hit the slopes, take a hike, and grab a beer in Salt Lake.

Click here to check accommodation in Salt Lake City!

From Carol at Wayfaring Views

23. Washington DC

If you’re traveling to Washington DC in the hope of experiencing a white Christmas, you’re in for a treat. Washington DC doesn’t traditionally see snow in December, although January has a perfect chance of seeing snow. 

Beyond that, Washington DC is relatively cold during winter but not cold enough to stop you from seeing the incredible attractions America’s capital has to offer!

Explore the National Mall, discover the Smithsonian Museums, pay homage at the Arlington Cemetery, and photograph the White House.

The various National Museums along the National Mall provide a good escape from the cold, where you could also grab a coffee and snack before braving the cold again.

Many of the main attractions are condensed to within a close area, and the Central Business District hotels are easily within walking distance to the National Mall, which includes Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Vietnam War Memorial, the World War II Memorial, the United States Capitol Building, and various museums that would easily take a week to visit each.

Click here to check accommodation in Washington DC!

24. Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra is a wonderful winter destination in California. The area is beautiful all year round, but in the winter, it takes on a remarkable beauty. 

Majestic mountains and evergreen forests surround the town, and in the winter, the landscape does look like a winter wonderland. 

And towards the start of the season, when the blue lakes that dot the region have not yet frozen over, they gleam like sapphires amidst the snowy white surroundings. It’s a magical sight!

Even though this is one of the best fall vacations in the US , the Mammoth Lakes is also a very popular winter resort, and the opportunities for winter adventures and fun are endless here. 

Apart from traditional skiing, you can snowboard, snowmobile, snowshoe, and cross-country ski. 

Try snow tubing, build a snowman, have a snowball fight! If you just want to take the gondola to the top for hot chocolate and to take in the magnificent views, that’s fine too! 

How about riding a snowcat (used to groom trails) on a tour to Minaret Vista? Or ice-skating at the local rink? You won’t run out of fun things to try, even if you spend a couple of weeks here!

There are lots of accommodation options, and at the end of each day, you can return to relax by a fire with a hot drink. That’s the perfect end to a fun winter vacation day!

Tip: Mammoth Lakes is very popular in the winter, so book early!

Click here to check accommodation in the Mammoth Lakes!

From Dhara at It’s Not About the Miles

25. St Augustine, Florida

If you are looking for a great place to visit in the Winter, then you will be surprised by the number of things to do in St. Augustine , Florida. 

It not only encompasses some fantastic beaches that are great for relaxing and sandcastle making, but it also has a great history to keep almost anyone interested. 

St. Augustine is nicknamed the Nation’s Oldest City with a wide variety of attractions and restaurants. 

We highly recommend taking a trolley tour when you first arrive to get the lay of the land before you decide on which attractions you’d like to visit. 

Our family enjoyed the reenactment of the cannon fire at the Castillo de San Marcos, the National Monument in downtown St. Augustine right on the water.

A great thing about St. Augustine, FL, is that it provides a mild winter allowing you to still enjoy the warm beaches, yet without the crowds that you may find in southern Florida areas during winter months. 

When in doubt, hit the beaches and just bring a sweatshirt on a cooler day. They are a great place to find seashells and even take a bike ride on the packed sandy beaches.

Click here to check accommodation in St. Augustine!

From Jill at Lets Travel Family

26. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Lake Tahoe is great year-round, but it really shines in the winter when its famous ski resorts come to life. 

Skiers and snowboarders are treated to views of Lake Tahoe’s bright blue water sparkling in the sun as they ascend chairlifts and prepare for their runs down world-class slopes. 

Squaw Valley , one of the top ski destinations in the country, was the site of the 1960 Olympics and offers a museum about the games in addition to time on the slopes. 

Other resorts in the area are Alpine Valley, Heavenly Mountain, Mt. Rose, Homewood, Northstar, and Diamond Peak.

After the lifts close, you can enjoy apres-ski dining and drinks at one of the resort villages. 

South Lake Tahoe has great options right at the base of Heavenly Village. If you’re not too worn out from skiing, you can take a scenic drive along the shores. 

Tahoe City has pathways along the lake, and the western shore offers particularly nice views of the water.

Lake Tahoe is located on the California/Nevada state line, approximately two hours east of Sacramento. 

If visiting in the winter, be aware that ice and snow in the mountains can lead to dangerous driving conditions. 

Pay attention to road closures and warnings, and bring snow chains in case the weather requires them.

Click here to check accommodation in Lake Tahoe!

From Kris at Nomad by trade

27. Park City, Utah

Located about 30 minutes East of Salt Lake City, Park City is the epitome of winter activities. The city has one of the biggest ski resorts in the United States. 

This typical winter vacation spot and surrounding areas have many activities to offer, including skiing, snowboarding, bobsled riding, exploring the cute town, and so much more. 

In 2002, Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics. The vast majority of skiing and snowboarding events were held in Park City, Utah, due to the world-class ski resorts. With that being said, skiing and/or snowboarding is a must!

If you are looking for a unique thrill, then make sure to check out the bobsledding track.

As you might expect, the track was built for the 2002 Olympics for the bobsled, skeleton, and luge events. 

The track has remained in use. You can now buy tickets to experience a thrilling bobsled ride!

The city also features a fun and vibrant area called Historic Main Street that is filled with boutique stores, cafes, bookstores, and restaurants.

It is the best place in town to relax after an all-day outing at the slopes. 

Park City offers an endless number of winter activities for all. The city is a fantastic destination for any kind of winter vacation you want to make it. 

Ease of access and endless activities within minutes. What else could you ask for?

Click here to check accommodation in Park City!

From Michelle at The Wandering Queen

28. New York City, New York

If you’re looking for an excellent winter destination in the US, New York City is the place for you! 

Although not a cheap winter vacation in the US, this touristy city is actually quiet in the winter if you don’t visit in the Christmas rush. 

You can get excellent deals on hotels and accommodations during January, February, and March. 

New York City has many excellent museums that are perfect for enjoying when the temperatures are cold. 

It’s also quite beautiful under a layer of snow, especially when you visit scenic Central Park, which is incredibly gorgeous in winter. 

Also, the Prospect Park in Brooklyn is lovely, especially the ice skating rink on the south side of the park, which is fun to enjoy in the winter and is much less crowded and expensive than ice skating at Rockefeller Center. 

When you need to warm up and take a break, there are plenty of great places to eat, drink, or enjoy a coffee. 

New York bars are incredibly cozy in the winter, and a lot of happy hours include delicious hot spiked beverages like mulled wine which are great to warm you up after being out in the cold. 

Oh, and consider attending a Broadway show because some indoor entertainment is also welcome at this time of the year!

New York in winter is indeed cold, but there is plenty to do to warm you up, and you’ll save a bundle compared to the high season! Be sure to include it in your US winter vacation ideas.

Click here to check accommodation in New York City!

From Allison at Eternal Arrival

29. Chicago, Illinois

While winter is not the most popular season for tourists, I think it is one of the best times to visit Chicago .

For starters, accommodation costs are lower, and the popular attractions are less crowded.

There are so many things to do in Chicago, but you might want to focus on the indoor attractions when visiting in the winter. 

Chicago has many excellent and well-known museums, including the Museum of Science and Industry, Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and the Art Institute of Chicago. 

Other things you can do include watching a play, sporting event, or comedy show, listen to music at a jazz club, take an architecture tour and enjoy panoramic views from tall skyscrapers.

You can also brave the cold weather and head outside to Millennium Park to see Cloud Gate, the famous mirrored sculpture known as The Bean. One of the best things to do in Chicago is to eat. 

Chicago is one of the top cities in the world for food lovers, with many restaurants serving every type of cuisine.

Make sure to try deep dish pizza and a Chicago-style hot dog, two dishes that Chicago is known for.

Click here to check accommodation in Chicago!

From Patti at The Savvy Globetrotter

30. Redmond, Oregon

Central Oregon’s dry and sunny climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor winter activities. 

Popular cities like Bend and up-and-coming towns like Redmond, Oregon , are conveniently located in the high desert, with the Deschutes River flowing through and surrounded by snowy mountains. 

Mount Bachelor Ski and Snowboard Resort is just half an hour from town, with over 100 runs.

Hoodoo Ski Area is not much further, with an additional 34 ski runs. Both also have spectacular sledding parks.

Central Oregon enjoys some of the driest powder in the Pacific Northwest, ideal for cross-country skiing. 

Nordic skiing can be found at Mt. Bachelor as well as the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Willamette National Forests. Many of these areas are also open to snowmobiling and snowshoeing. 

In Bend and Redmond, ice-skating rinks open every winter.

You can also enjoy an abundance of tasty restaurants, local breweries, and cute cafes whether you’re visiting for a family vacation, outdoor adventure, or romantic getaway in the United States .

Click here to check accommodation in Redmond! 

From Michelle at Roam Redmond Oregon

31. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Winter in the Rocky Mountain National Park is truly unique. If you love to hike, exploring the park on snowshoes is a bucket-list must! 

The mountains and lakes are transformed into a blanket of snow for the snowshoe hares, elk, and coyotes to explore.

There are several places we like to start. Bear Lake is probably the most popular trailhead for snowshoers, for a good reason!

Hike around the lake for amazing views, giant icicles, and maybe a snowball fight!

One of my favorite trails from Bear Lake is Nymph Lake (about half a mile in), and gorgeous.

Beyond it, about a half-mile, you reach Dream Lake, then another .8 miles to Emerald Lake. 

Usually, it depends on the weather how far you’d like to go. It can get cold and windy out on the lakes!

Another favorite place of ours in winter is Hollowell Park. It’s a turnoff with a small parking lot a few miles before Bear Lake and much less crowded.

For kids , this is a great flat area to explore and see some wildlife.

For a longer hike, snowshoe up to Cub Lake. It’s 2.3 miles one way from a trailhead of the same name and a 540-foot elevation gain. 

Before you go, it’s wise to stop into one of the local Estes Park snowshoe shops, such as the Warming House, and ask what the best trails are at the moment. 

Because they rent snowshoes and know what’s going on with weather and trail conditions in the park, they often can give great recommendations. Have fun!

Click here to check accommodation in Rocky Mountain! 

Lauren at Explorer Momma

32. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

When you think of USA bucket lists, Yellowstone is an undeniable superstar. Yellowstone is nothing short of magical. 

The bizarre geothermal features are otherworldly, and the wildlife viewing is some of the best you’ll find anywhere.

The Absaroka Range provides a stunning backdrop to all the adventures you’ll have here, whether they’re on Yellowstone Lake or Yellowstone River, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, or the Grand Prismatic Spring!

Yellowstone’s busiest months are July and August, so visiting outside of that window is ideal. Most folks fly into Bozeman and rent a car.

As for lodging, there are tons of options in and around Yellowstone. 

The key is to book as early as humanly possible. The historic Old Faithful Lodge, where you can watch Old Faithful erupt from your room, is the most iconic place to stay. 

That said, there’s plenty of other lodgings in the park or neighboring small mountain towns. I stayed in the charming Cooke City before heading into the park to snag a campsite. 

You can reserve campsites in more extensive campgrounds or arrive bright and early to snag a first-come-first-served site.

There is no perfect number of days to spend in Yellowstone, but the longer, the better! 

I stayed four days on my last trip, which was sufficient to see all the highlights (e.g., Grand Prismatic, Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley…), plus do some hiking without feeling too rushed. 

Keep in mind that regardless of the time frame, you’ll be doing a ton of driving.

The Grand Loop, the main Figure-8 drive within Yellowstone National Park, is 142 miles! I promise it’s more than worth it. 

Click here to check accommodation in Yellowstone! 

Kaisa at Glam Granola Travel

33. Coldfoot, Alaska

A town named Coldfoot conjures images of brides running away or someone with frostbite on their feet. 

Well, Coldfoot, Alaska, is just that. It is a tiny town in interior Alaska along the Dalton Highway. 

Beyond that, Coldfoot’s record temperature during winter is -82℉. Mind you, the town is about 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle.

Not only that, but Coldfoot is home to 10-15 people, a café, a small bunkhouse, a gas station, and a pub.

This tiny town might not seem like a tourist hot spot, but it is. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in light shows.

Northern Lights, that is. Coldfoot sits right in the center of the Aurora Borealis belt.

Being north of the Arctic Circle means that Coldfoot experiences plenty of darkness. During the winter, Coldfoot has 67 days where the sun will not rise at all. 

This means that during the winter, there are 1,608 hours that the northern lights can be seen.

Even spending a single day in Coldfoot gives one 24 hours where the lights can be seen. 

Click here to check accommodation in Coldfoot!

From Jennifer at National Park Obsessed

Wrapping up on the Best Winter Vacations in the US

These were the best places to visit in the winter for a magical and memorable vacation.

While some of these winter vacations in the US are perfect for chilly weather lovers, others are ideal for people who urge for warmer days–like us!

We hope you enjoyed the read and got some lovely ideas for a winter break in America.

But, before leaving this article, please tell us in the comments, do you prefer a snowy winter vacation or a winter getaway to sunny beaches? Drop your answer below! We’d love to hear from you!

Did you like this article about the best winter vacations in the US? Then pin it to your Pinterest travel board!

Wednesday 8th of December 2021

In #20 - Page Arizona - you mention theres more to Antelope Canyon. You say there are other slot canyons just a beautiful with less people? Do you know what they are?

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Top 10 Winter Road trips in the US

A road trip during this winter can be fun if you follow all the necessary precautions and plan ahead. Before heading out, be sure that all the roads along your route are open if there has been snowfall. Also clear ice from your car windows and be careful when driving on snowy roads. Choose a suitable route that is well-traveled, so there are other drivers around in case you have car trouble. Also, be sure to check out our general road trip tips guide and complete guide to road trips in the US to help you prepare for your road trip.

Now that the safety precautions are out of the way, take a look at our 10 best winter road trips in America, and start planning!

• Phoenix, AZ to the Grand Canyon
• Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head, SC
• Boise to Stanley, ID
• Denver to Vail, CO
• Rochester to Stowe, VT
• Florida Keys: Key Largo to Key West
• NYC to Bradford, PA
• Seattle to Leavenworth, WA
• Salt Lake City, UT, to Las Vegas
• St. Augustine, FL, to Savannah, GA

1. Phoenix, AZ to the Grand Canyon

A drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon will give you a great experience this winter, despite desert landscapes not being popular for the winter wonderland experience. One of the best sights that will greet your eyes is the dusting of snow on the South Rim. You can also enjoy riding the Polar Express Train to Williams from the South Rim.

2. Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head, SC

Start your journey from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, after enjoying beautifully illuminated grounds and the Brookgreen Gardens annual Night of a Thousand Candles event. On your way to Hilton Head from Myrtle Beach, you will have a chance to see several lighthouses. Additionally, a leisurely stroll around the harbor will give a memorable experience on your winter road trip.

3. Boise to Stanley, ID

The numerous hot springs located between Stanley and Boise make this route a perfect choice for a winter road trip. When you start off your journey from Boise, you will arrive at the first hot spring, the Kirkham Hot Springs, after about two hours. It is found on the South Fork of the Payette River. Afterward, you will be able to see three other popular hot springs, Sunbeam Hot Springs, Bonneville Hot Springs and Elkhorn Hot Springs. After arriving in Stanley, you will be able to enjoy various winter activities including ice skating, skiing and sledding.

4. Denver to Vail, CO

Once you hit the road from Denver to Vail, Colorado, you can take advantage of the slopes of the majestic Rocky Mountains for snowboarding, skiing and other snow sports. While in Denver, you can enjoy winter events like Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo. When you arrive in Vail, you can enjoy ice skating performances, tree lighting ceremonies and some great skiing.

5. Rochester to Stowe, VT

The list of the best winter road trips in the US isn’t complete without including Vermont’s Route 100 Byway from Rochester to Stowe. This route has some great views and several interesting stops. Make your first stop in the Green Mountain villages of Wilmington and Weston, about 2 hours after beginning your journey from Rochester. Moss Glen Falls is a great sightseeing stop that will make your road trip memorable. When you arrive in Stowe, you can enjoy skiing and ice skating at some top-notch venues.

6. Florida Keys: Key Largo to Key West

Driving along the Overseas Highway gives you warm temperatures and amazing scenery, making a trip through the Florida Keys a great winter road trip. If you want to have the Caribbean feel without having to leave the country, this is the winter road trip for you. Be sure to check for any holiday events that might be happening in the Keys and make time for activities like sunset sailing trips.

7. New York City to Bradford, PA

If you are an ice skating or skiing enthusiast, consider taking a winter road trip from New York City to Bradford, Pennsylvania. Start by seeing the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, which is also popular for ice skating. As you make your way to Pennsylvania, you can enjoy the Norman Rockwell countryside. The slopes of HoliMont in Ellicottville, which is the largest private ski resort in North America, are a perfect place for you if you love skiing.

8. Seattle to Leavenworth, WA

Consider a winter road trip from Seattle to Leavenworth if you want to enjoy a Bavarian Christmas without traveling outside the country. Winter transforms this unique Bavarian-style village into a snow globe of holiday magic. Traveling from Seattle to Leavenworth will also give you a chance to traverse the Cascade Mountain range, giving you great scenery. Just check the roads before you go!

9. Salt Lake City, UT to Las Vegas, NV

By taking the slow road from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Las Vegas, Nevada, you will have a chance to see numerous sights. The trip takes about 6 hours, but you could extend it to more than 10 hours or even several days to have more fun. This way, you will be able to have sufficient time for hiking. You can spend quality time at Valley of Fire State Park, which is popular for the fire wave hike. When you arrive in Las Vegas, you can go for a hike at the Red Rock Canyon, located west of Las Vegas.

10. St. Augustine, FL to Savannah, GA

During winter, numerous individual bulbs light up the Spanish architecture of America’s oldest city, St. Augustine. You can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides as you this stunning spectacle of lights. When you arrive in Savannah, you can enjoy the sights of live music, fireworks, and tree lighting ceremony, among other exciting events.

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The 10 Best Winter Road Trip Routes On The West Coast To Help You Embrace Cold-Weather Adventures

Post Summary: 10 Best Winter Road Trip Routes For Some Cold Weather Adventures!

During most road trips, you check the forecast to make sure you won’t be running into inclement weather.

Things like snow, closed mountain passes, and heavy storms can be a real bummer when you aren’t expecting them!

But what if you want to drive TOWARDS the snow?

Winter road trip routes are definitely more challenging to pull off, but they also come with huge rewards that you don’t get any other time of year!

In this post, we’re sharing the 10 best winter road trip routes, for those of you with brave souls and a love for the snow!

Now go and heat up the car…let’s go!

The 10 Best Winter Road Trip Routes To Help You Embrace Cold-Weather Adventures

But first, safety on winter drives….

There are very important items you will need to keep in your car during your winter road trip. Car complications can happen any time of year, but they can be a bit more dangerous if you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, trapped in the snow.

If you’re considering driving cross country in the winter, being prepared for winter driving conditions are essential for your safety!

Here are some winter road trip tips for you – things you need to pack during cold weather:

• Portable Chargers (to juice up your phones and other electronics)
• Windshield Scraper ( Click here for the brush/scraper combo on Amazon )
• Car Shovel ( Find our favorite one here on Amazon )
• Extra blankets, gloves, and hat

Want to see the entire list? Read our entire list of emergency essentials below!

Read More: The 12 Essentials You Need To Pack In Your Car Emergency Kit

The Canadian Rockies

Starting Point: Calgary, Alberta Canada

Time Required: ~5-6 days

Looking for those Narnia-inspired winter scenes like snow-covered trees and frozen waterfalls? Look no further than the Canadian Rockies in the wintertime!

Banff in the winter season  brings its own magical vibe to the season. From ice skating on Lake Louise to dog sledding in Banff , there’s so much to do and see during the winter.

Make sure your car has excellent snow tires, extra chains, and an ice shovel in your car. Bring a confident driver, and keep these Alberta road condition websites handy (by saving this blog post!) to check and see if your winter road trip route is open.

511 Alberta – a Province-wide source for updates on road conditions, closures and accidents.

Drive BC – Updated road conditions in the province of British Columbia.

Banff Winter Resources:

• 20 Bucket List Things To Do In Banff In Winter
• Take a Johnston Canyon Ice Walking Tour To See Frozen Waterfalls!
• The Ultimate Banff Packing List For Winter Trips
• Ice Skating on Lake Louise 

The Pacific Coast Highway (Winter Road Trip – California to Washington)

Starting Point: San Diego, California (Northbound) or Seattle, Washington (Southbound)

Time Required: ~1 week

The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic Western USA road trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

From the rainy shores of the Washington beaches , incredible sea stacks on the Oregon Coast , and the golden sunsets of California, there’s never a dull moment on a Pacific Coast road trip . Don’t have time to do the entire route? Try taking a shorter, Northern California road trip itinerary instead! We’ve created this route that takes only 1 week to complete!

This is a more warm winter road trip itinerary because of the temperate climate all along the coast. You may encounter lots of rain, but hardly be stuck because of snowy conditions. Check out our complete guide to the Pacific Coast Highway here !

Pacific Coast Road Trip Resources:

• The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary
• How To Find Free Camping Anywhere in the USA
• The Complete Guide To Sleeping In Your Car
• 30 Essentials You Need To Pack For Your Next Road Trip

Utah National Parks

Starting Point: Salt Lake City, Utah

Utah is full of amazing high desert national parks and they are an excellent option for planning your next winter road trip route! Because winter is the low season for all 5 Utah National Parks , you’ll likely find yourself being one of very few visitors.

While not everything will be open in the winter (for example, Angels Landing Hike is likely closed due to icy trail conditions), you can still check out the highlights of each park.

A Utah National Parks road trip in winter provides a chance to see the parks in a new light. Bryce Canyon looks amazing with a blanket of snow, and hiking to Delicate Arch during sunrise  (have you seen photos of Arches National Park in winter?!) will bring a magical winter desert scene!

Utah National Park Road Trip Resources:

• The Complete Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• 10 Epic American Southwest Destinations You Need To See To Believe
• The Ultimate Southwest Road Trip Route

The Grand Tetons + Yellowstone

Starting Point: Jackson, Wyoming OR Bozeman, Montana

Time Required: ~3 days

From the snow-capped peaks of the Grand Teton range to the fluffy buffalo and elk in the valley just below, winter in the Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone provide some amazing opportunities to get outside and enjoy this region.

Spend some time snowshoeing to a frozen lake like Taggart Lake at the foot of the Tetons, or camp out with your camera in the valley to capture some beautiful elk photos or amazing sunrises and sunsets.

The core of Yellowstone is closed during the winter season (check out winter road access here ), but you can explore their many winter options in the Mammoth Hot Springs area and Grand Loop Road in the northern part of the park for a unique experience in Yellowstone during winter!

Yellowstone/ Grand Teton National Park Winter Road Trip Resources:

• What To Expect in Mammoth Hot Springs During Winter
• Snowshoeing to Taggart Lake in the Winter
• The Complete Rocky Mountain Road Trip Route (6+ National Parks)
• What to Expect on String Lake Trail in Jackson, Wyoming

Anchorage To Fairbanks

Starting Point:  Anchorage, Alaska

Instead of running away from winter, why not embrace it with the ULTIMATE winter road trip itinerary? Nothing says ‘winter’ more than an Alaska road trip , and there’s plenty to do during this magical season in the 49th state.

From witnessing the Northern Lights, experiencing days with total darkness, and discovering Denali National Park in its snowy glory, this trip is one for the bravest of the brave.

Alaska Winter Road Trip Resources:

• Drive The Entire Alaska Road Trip Route (Fairbanks to Homer)
• 10 Awesome Things to Do In Fairbanks, Alaska
• Outdoor Activities To Do Near Anchorage, Alaska

The Seward Highway

Time Required: ~4-5 days

Not ready to do full winter mode but still want to discover Alaska? Luckily, Alaska is the largest state in the USA, which means there are a plethora of adventures to take during the winter season!

Check out Homer and Seward, Alaska, amazing coastal towns along Cook Inlet and Ressurection Bay. Along this winter road trip route, you can stop to take a winter kayaking tour through the ice, attend a local winter carnival, or just hang out in a pub and meet some friendly locals!

Winter Road Trip Resources :

• The Essential Seward, Alaska Travel Guide
• 40 Items That Should Be On Your Winter Travel Packing List
• 10 Essential Road Trip Planner Tools and Apps to Have On Your Phone

Winter Trips On The Oregon Coast

Starting Point:  Portland, Oregon

You won’t find snow on the coast, but you’ll sure and hell encounter those iconic, gloomy Oregon coast days on this Pacific Northwest winter road trip route. If you can stand a little rain and wind, you’re likely to have many of these Oregon coast towns to explore without the crowds!

Bring your rain boots (with extra warm socks underneath) and a waterproof coat and get exploring! (Here’s our Oregon Coast packing list for all season!) Winter on the Oregon Coast brings an entirely new perspective. Crashing waves and muddy trails will bring a new meaning to the word ‘adventure’ on this winter drive.

Oregon Road Trip Resources :

• The Complete Oregon Coast Road Trip Route
• The 25 Best Beaches In Oregon (North To South)
• 26 Jaw-Dropping Oregon Coast Hikes
• 101 Things To Do In The Pacific Northwest
• Amazing Things To Do In Coos Bay, Oregon

This Idaho Hot Springs Route Is The Perfect Winter Road Trip

Starting Point:  Boise, Idaho

Time Required: ~3-4 days

Is there anything better than soaking in hot springs while the snow peacefully falls around you? Come visit the state full of gorgeous commercial and natural hot springs…in Idaho!

Starting in Boise, you can easily see 6+ hot springs on one long weekend trip! Some of the highlights include The Springs in Idaho City, Kirkham Hot Springs , and Moutain Village Hot Springs!

When visiting, remember to leave the place better than you found it. That might mean packing out more garbage than you came in with! Thanks for keeping these delicate Idaho hot springs a magical place to other visitors too.

Idaho Winter Driving Caution: Some of the routes required to see Idaho hot springs (Like Highway 21) in winter often receive very heavy snowfall. Save this Idaho Road Conditions website for up-to-date information on road closures and expected openings.

Idaho Winter Driving Resources:

• All The Best Idaho Hot Springs To Explore
• How To Reach Burgdorf Hot Springs (snowmobiling only in the winter)
• Stay at The Springs Idaho Mountain Resort
• Why You Should Stay in Stanley, Idaho in The Winter

The Olympic Peninsula (Washington)

Starting Point:  Seattle, Washington

Time Required: ~2-3 days (One long weekend trip from Seattle, Washington)

There are so many amazing spots to see on the Olympic Peninsula – even more beautiful with a light dusting of snow! Being from Washington, this is one of the best winter trips for us, and we love returning to the Washington coast time after time – there’s always something new to see. (By the way, if you want to stay longer, read our 10-day guide to the Olympic National Park !)

Some of the highlights of this west coast winter road trip include seeing the Kalaloch Tree Root Cave (Tree of Life) , hiking along Rialto Beach , exploring tide pools and Ruby Beach , and driving to the most Northwest part of the contiguous United States, Cape Flattery .

There are also plenty of Washington winter hikes on the Olympic Peninsula – the milder temperature makes many trails accessible year-round!

More Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Resources:

• The Complete Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary
• All The Best Washington Beaches To Explore

Notable Mentions For Winter Drives On The West Coast

We haven’t explored all the best winter trips in the USA, but they are on our list!

Here are some dream winter road trips we’d love to take someday, and we’re leaving them here to inspire you too.

• Lake Tahoe, California – Discover all the wonderful things to do in Lake Tahoe in the winter (think skiing, sleigh rides, and more!)
• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon – See this gorgeous Oregon national park in the deep snow!
• Mount Hood Scenic Byway, Oregon – Don’t forget to stop by the Timberline Lodge for a snowy winter wonderland trip!
• Highway 84, Sante Fe, New Mexico – See the desert in a blanket of snow on this adventurous highway.

What are some of your favorite winter road trip routes to take during the colder months? Share your favorites with us in the comments below!

More road trip routes + tips.

The Complete 10-Day Southwest Road Trip Route To See Everything

10 Easy Camping Meals Anyone Can Make On The Road

Find Free Camping Anywhere In The USA With Our Extensive Guide

How To Sleep In Your Car: The Art of Car Camping

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• On the Road

7 Steps to Taking the Best U.S. Winter Road Trip Ever

See recent posts by Lara Grant

When I think of road trips , I imagine cruising down the highway with the sun on my face and wind in my hair; along with camping and barbecuing, road-tripping is a quintessential summer activity (albeit one that takes a bit longer than throwing a few burgers on the grill). But after being convinced to take one last winter (and having it end up being amazing), I can honestly say that not only  can itbe done once temperatures drop, but it  should be .  By traveling in the frosty months, you'll be able to avoid the warm-weather crowds and see landscapes in an atypical, but equally beautiful, way. So download your books on tape, fill your thermos with hot chocolate, and read on to learn the seven steps you need to take to enjoy a totally awesome cross-country road trip this winter.

Hotels in this story

Step 1: Pick a Southern Route

There are likely a few sites along the way that have already made your list of must-visit locations, so prioritize those. Then research other noteworthy or unique places to stop by on your drive. Sites like TripAdvisor and Roadtrippers.com are great resources for finding landmarks, restaurants, and activities that are actually worth your time and money.

For inspiration: We had downtown Nashville, Beale Street in Memphis , Hot Springs, Arkansas, Ten Thousand Waves Spa in Santa Fe, the Grand Canyon , Joshua Tree National Park , and Coronado Island on our have-to-see list. 

Step 3: Find Accommodations

Among friends’ apartments, hotels, and Airbnb properties, there are quite a few options for overnight accommodations. And of course, there’s always camping , though that’ll depend on your desired comfort level. During my road trip, we used most options: a cozy hotel in Santa Fe, found using the HotelTonight app; my brother and sister-in-law’s apartment in Dallas ; a cheap motel in Little Rock; and a girl’s artist-chic house in Nashville through couchsurfing.com. There’s no right option, but take your budget and travel style into account. We also chose not to book anything too far in advance to account for unforeseen travel delays.

Step 4: Take Prep Seriously & Get Packing

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8 BEST Winter Road Trips on the West Coast to Escape the Snow

Who said road trips were just for the summers? There are many great places to go for an amazing winter road trip on the West Coast of the USA. A few precautions are required when driving in the winter, but other than that, you can have fun on family trips.

We’ve prepared  a list of the eight best winter road trips on the West Coast of the USA to do with your family .

P.S.  We can’t travel everywhere, so if you did an epic family East Coast winter road trip that isn’t on our list,  please message me  and we can feature your family road trip to the list.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

1. Utah National Parks Road Trip

UTAH’S NATIONAL PARKS ROAD TRIP: ⏰ Recommended road trip time : 7 days 🗺️  Distance:  370 miles (595 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Moab → Arches → Canyonlands → Capitol Reef → Bryce → Zion ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The stunning natural arches in Arches National Park and the scenic hikes in Zion

The Utah National Parks are quickly becoming one of the most famous road trip destinations in the US, and with their grand views, striking red arches, and unique rock formations, it’s easy to see why. Visit in the winter to see these parks in relative solitude and to avoid the heat of the desert in the summer.

This 370-mile road trip is the perfect way to spend a week in nature with your family . These parks offer overlooks or trails that will awe and inspire all ages, and kids can learn a great deal about geography and history from the many informational packets and plaques in the National Parks.

▶️ Get your FREE 10-Day Utah National Park itinerary!

Start your seven-day road trip in  Moab and spend  one day in Arches and one day in Canyonlands  National Parks . Arches National Park has many kid-friendly trails, such as  Double Arch and Sand Dune Arch . Canyonlands is less kid-friendly, with many steep drop-offs without railings, but there are still many great overlooks to check out, such as the  Green River Overlook and Grand Viewpoint Overlook .

Next, head down to  Capitol Reef for a day  and take the scenic drive past the canyon walls. Kids will also have a lot of fun  picking fruit in the Fruita Orchard  and eating pie from the Gifford House! The next stop is  Bryce National Park, worth spending two days in. Young families can easily walk along the rim from  Sunrise to Sunset Point  or check out the overlooks at Lower, Middle, and Upper Inspiration Point. Families up for a hike will love the  Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail or the Peekaboo Loop Trail . These are moderate, longer trails that take you down into the canyon and among the hoodoos.

Last, head to  Zion National Park   for two days to complete your Utah road trip. Zion has a variety of trails with a range of difficulties, but two of the more family-friendly ones include the  Riverside Walk and Lower Emerald Pool Trail . 

2. San Diego, CA to Phoenix, AZ

SAN DIEGO, CA TO PHOENIX, AZ ⏰ Recommended road trip time : 5 days 🗺️  Distance:  355 miles (571 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: San Diego → La Jolla → Joshua Tree → Phoenix ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The family-friendly attractions in San Diego and the desert beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.

If you’re looking to escape the winter blues, there’s no better place for a road trip than from southern California through Arizona. Starting in San Diego and traveling east, you will find lots of great stops for kids. The drive from San Diego to Phoenix is five to six hours, depending on your route.

Start your trip off with two days in San Diego. The  San Diego Zoo  is a great place to visit with kids and fun to spend the day. La Jolla Cove is a great place to see the sea lions and do some shopping. Old Town California, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and the USS Midway Museum are fun places for San Diego kids.

From San Diego, you can drive north and take the I-15N and 1-10E to Phoenix. This route will take you through  Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park . You can see the highlights of Joshua Tree in anywhere from a couple of hours to a day. This drive takes about six hours.

The second route option follows the Mexican border through Yuma. You can also take a slight detour to the south and visit  Tucson and Saguaro National Park . Without the detour to Tucson, this drive takes about five hours.

Once you get there, there are so many fun things to do with kids in Phoenix. There are many great  outdoor activities in Phoenix for kids , like visiting the:

• McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park,
• Hieroglyphics Trail,
• Riparian Preserve,
• Odysea Aquarium,
• Legoland Discovery Center, and
• Uptown Jungle. 

You can also add a little detour to drive on the Apache Trail, just outside of Mesa, AZ .

3. Denver, CO to Utah

DENVER, CO TO UTAH ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 7 days 🗺️  Distance:  1300 miles (2092 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Denver → Vail/Aspen → Moab → Utah’s National Parks ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip : The snow-covered slopes of Vail and the red rock landscapes of Utah’s parks.

One of the best winter family road trips in the USA is to do a loop starting from Denver and going through Moab, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Cortez, and back!

This road trip provides multiple changes of scenery along the way which will keep children enthralled the whole time. By spending the night in places like Vail or Aspen , you can experience epic winter snow and cold fresh air, especially at a must-visit place like the Maroon Bells .

As the journey continues into Utah, kids will be fascinated by the desert as you can stop at great national parks like Arches and Zion. Bryce Canyon National Park is also one of the best places to visit in the snow . By visiting Bryce Canyon in winter , you can avoid the crowds and witness the stark contrast of the snow on the hoodoos.

At just 1300 miles over seven days, this is a lot of driving, but it’s doable! Just make sure to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenery. Some of the best places to spend the night on this road trip are Vail, Grand Junction, Moab, Bryce, and Cortez. You can even add an extra day or two and dip into Arizona to visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon!

If you plan on doing this road trip, purchase an America the Beautiful Pass to save money on national park fees. If you plan on visiting at least two parks, the pass is well worth it! They can be purchased online or at an adventure store like REI .

Curated by: Krystianna from Volumes & Voyages | 7 days | 1300 miles

4. Space Tour New Mexico Road Trip

NEW MEXICO SPACE TRAIL: ⏰ Recommended road trip time : 3-4 days 🗺️  Distance:  383 miles (616 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary : Roswell → Alamogordo → Las Alamos ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip : The International UFO Museum in Roswell and the New Mexico Museum of Space History.

If your family includes a future astronaut or scientist, the first stop on your New Mexico Road Trip should be Roswell. Start at The International UFO Museum and Research Center to learn about the “1947 Roswell incident.” With history and alien legends, this museum is fun for all ages.  Roswell is also home to a UFO-themed Mcdonalds’ with kids’ play zone.  Want to escape the alien theme?

Check out the art at the Roswell Museum or Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. Before heading out on your road trip, be sure to check out one of the Rowell TV series or documentaries. 

The next stop on your trip should be Alamogordo . Alamogordo is located at the Sacramento Mountains base and near the historical “Trinity” atomic bomb testing site. The New Mexico Museum of Space History houses several permanent space history exhibitions and a planetarium. Next drive over to White Sands is a National Park, which is known for wave-like dunes of gypsum.  Pick up a sled on your way to sled down the white dunes.  

The last stop on your trip should be Las Alamos. Known for its role in the Manhattan Project, Las Alamos is rich in history and science. While in Las Alamos, check out the Bradbury Science Museum, the Las Alamos History Museum, and the New Mexico Site for the Manhattan Project National Historical Park . 

New Mexico is a state rich in history and culture.  You can quickly expand your road trip by stopping by the Albuquerque Zoo or checking out the ski slopes in Santa Fe . 

Curated by: Christina from Ragain Adventures

5. Los Angeles, CA to Orange County, CA

LOS ANGELES TO ORANGE COUNTY : ⏰ Recommended road trip time : 4 days 🗺️  Distance:  100 miles (160 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Los Angeles → Huntington Beach → San Clemente → Orange County ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip : Surfing in Huntington Beach and exploring the cultural spots of Orange County.

If you want to take a classic winter California road trip,  head to Orange Country  after spending a couple of days in Los Angeles. You’ll be driving a section of the famous Pacific Coast Highway .

Located in the heart of Southern California , Orange County is home to over 3 million people, making it one of the most populous counties in the state. That, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t find a quiet escape here. 

Quite the opposite:  Orange County is home to some of California’s best beaches and state parks, with plenty of space for hiking, picnicking, camping, and mountain biking .

Orange County also has some of the best conditions for surfing in the United States, and the area has produced many world-famous surfers. If you want to grab a board and try surfing, consider visiting  Huntington Beach and San Clemente , some of the most popular surfing destinations in Orange County. 

Since Orange County comprises many charming towns located along the coast and further inland, make sure to spare enough time to visit them. Among the best coastal areas in Orange County are:

• Dana Point,
• Laguna Beach, and
• San Clemente.

However, you can also choose less expensive inland towns like Irvine or Santa Ana, just outside of Los Angeles.

Besides postcard beach views, Orange County has plenty of culture with several world-class institutions, such as the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, and a vibrant street art scene – perfect for a family trip! 

If you have extra time, add a few more days to your road trip to reach San Francisco .

6. Los Angeles, CA to Yosemite National Park, CA

LOS ANGELES TO YOSEMITE EXPLORATION SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 6-7 days 🗺️  Distance:  280 miles (451 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Los Angeles → Sequoia National Park → Yosemite National Park ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park and the serene beauty of Yosemite in winter.

Yosemite and Sequoia are generally considered summer family road trip destinations, but winter in these two California national parks is equally magical (if not more so). Plus, it brings a fraction of the crowds.

With Sequoia lying just over 200 miles north of Los Angeles and Yosemite lying an additional 170 miles from Sequoia, the route makes for the perfect 6 or 7-day California winter road trip with kids.

To reach Sequoia National Park, take the I-5 N to the CA-65 N from LA and check in at one of the park lodges or cabins. During the colder months of the year, snow blankets the floor beneath the towering groves of sequoia trees, creating a magical winter wonderland. Be sure not to miss the  General Sherman Tree – the largest in the world – or the General Grant Tree – the second largest in the world . Wolverton Meadow is the favored area for sledding and snowshoeing.

After a few days in Sequoia, take the CA-41 N to Yosemite and stay at one of the many  lodging options  in the valley or surrounding areas. While not all Yosemite trails remain open during winter,  Lower Yosemite Falls is a beautiful 1-mile loop trail  perfect for families with young children. Yosemite Valley Loop also remains open and is a great option for those looking for more of a challenge. Most years, there’s an ice rink in Curry Village, and the Sequoia Groves in Merced  and Tuolumne are popular places for snowshoeing.

💡 PRO-TIP: Driving in Sequoia and Yosemite during winter can bring snowy and icy conditions and it’s important to come prepared. Snow tires or chains are essential and checking for road closures before your trip is recommended.

7. The Ultimate Winter Road Trip West Coast: Oregon Coast from Cannon Beach to Brookings

OREGON COAST ROAD TRIP: ⏰ Recommended road trip time : 4 days 🗺️ Distance : 314 miles (505 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary : Cannon Beach → Oswald West State Park → Tillamook Creamery → Cape Kiwanda → Lincoln City → Thor’s Well → Bandon Beach → Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip : The stunning coastal views and natural wonders like Haystack Rock, Thor’s Well, and the sea stacks at Bandon Beach.

The Oregon Coast is a gorgeous destination any time of year – but the winter brings a special kind of magic ! You’ll want to bring waterproof shoes and rain jackets, but the mild temperatures, incredible views, and the solitude of the coast are so worth it. 

This is a great road trip with kids because the Oregon Coast has easily accessible viewpoints, family-friendly hikes with jaw-dropping views, and countless fun pit stops!

Start this road trip in Cannon Beach – an adorable beach town with local restaurants, nearby hikes, and the iconic view of Haystack Rock. From Cannon Beach to Brookings, Oregon, you’ll drive 302 miles (486 km), hugging the gorgeous coast and ocean views the entire time!

Wander the beach and take in the views of  Haystack Rock , then drive south. Take a quick pit stop at Short Sands Beach in Oswald West State Park and hike the short, mile-long paved path that ends at the gorgeous beach. If you have time, head to  Elk Flats  to walk the short trail to a cliff over the ocean!

Stop driving and stop at the Tillamook Creamery to tour the Cheese Factory and get ice cream for the family! Then, head to  Cape Kiwanda  and explore the beautiful beach. Climb up the dunes for a view of the ocean from above before continuing to Lincoln City.

After  exploring Lincoln City  and grabbing some saltwater taffy, drive to  Thor’s Well  to see an incredible natural wonder where the ocean seems to fall into an underwater cave. From there, drive to  Bandon Beach  and marvel at the sea stacks before heading into town for dinner.

Drive to  Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor and head to the  Natural Bridges  for gorgeous views from the cliffs over the ocean. Take the short, easy Indian Sands loop to the beach!

Curated by: Anna from Anna Tee

8. Sacramento to Lake Tahoe

SACRAMENTO TO LAKE TAHOE: ⏰ Recommended road trip time : Not specified, but typically a short trip 🗺️ Distance : 113 miles (182 km) 🚗 Suggested itinerary : Sacramento → Auburn → Donner Lake → Lake Tahoe ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip : The historical sites in Sacramento and Auburn, the tragic history of the Donner Party, and the winter sports and scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe.

When we think of California , we mostly have gorgeous beaches and palm trees in mind. But the Golden State has much more to offer, including its world-renowned ski resorts and beautiful snowy mountain peaks.

The Lake Tahoe area is perfect for a winter road trip in the USA.

Lake Tahoe is a freshwater alpine lake at 6,224 feet in altitude. It’s located in the Sierra Nevada. It shares its borders with the stats of California and Nevada. It’s about 113 miles away from Sacramento. 

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination for families , but it has something unique to offer during the wintertime.

Start your trip in the capital city of California, Sacramento . In Sacramento, you’ll want to visit the capitol, Old Sacramento, and its Railway museum to learn more about the California Gold Rush area .

Then, head east on I-80 and make a first stop in Auburn. The historic town of Auburn is charming. You can visit the Historic Auburn Courthouse.

Next, you’ll stop in Donner Lake to visit the Donner Memorial State Park. There, you’ll learn about the Donner Party and their sadly unsuccessful journey on the West Coast. You can also compare the amount of snow they received that year. The Memorial and museum is open year-round.

Finally, you’ll arrive in Lake Tahoe. There are a few options for visiting Lake Tahoe. Still, if you are a skiing or snowboarding family, I recommend staying at Palisade Tahoe Ski Resort in Olympic Valley or Heavenly ski resort in South Lake Tahoe.

While in Lake Tahoe, do a winter sleigh ride at Camp Richardson and some ice skating at the Heavenly Village ice rink.

Why Should You Plan a Winter Road Trip in the USA?

While driving in the winter can be scary, there are many benefits to planning a winter family trips. Here are a few of the main reasons you should plan a winter road trip in the USA this season:

• Tourist attractions, such as National Parks and theme parks, are way less crowded than in the summer, making your visit most enjoyable.
• Most hotels, rentals, and even some attractions offer discounted rates in the winter season (except ski resorts, of course)
• Some places have a magical charm in the winter, with the ground covered in winter.

Of course, there are some precautions to take when planning winter road trips in the USA, especially when changing states and climates. Here are a few things to keep in mind with  planning a road trip  in the winter:

• Always check weather reports and road condition reports before hitting the road
• Be informed on the winter tire requirements where you are heading
• Take your time on the road. A winter road trip will probably take longer than a summer one, but it’s for the family’s safety.

Final Thoughts: Best Winter Road Trips on the West Coast

There are many options for fun winter road trips on the West Coast of the USA for family vacations or long weekends.

Which of these winter road trips in the USA will you add to your family travel list?

Let us know in the comment section or  on Instagram .

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

Winter Road Trip Ideas in the USA

We’ve asked fellow travelers to share their favorite winter road trip ideas in the USA . When looking for winter vacation ideas , don’t forget you can still do road trips around the United States!

You’ll find travel guides, activities, packing list, and tips for various destinations around the US to plan a road trip during the winter. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes in Colorado, explore the vast wilderness of Montana, or experience the festive charm of New York City during the holiday season, there’s a winter destination to suit every traveler’s taste.

Venturing out on a winter road trip is a thrilling experience that promises beautiful snowy landscapes, cozy hideaways, and an unmatched sense of adventure. However, this exhilarating expedition requires careful planning and preparation due to the unique challenges presented by the season.

From ensuring that your vehicle is ready to brave the cold, to packing the right winter road trip supplies , every detail counts. It’s all about striking a balance between being well-prepared for any unexpected weather changes and savoring the icy beauty that the journey has to offer.

Use our  Winter Vacation Packing List  to make sure you have the right clothing and gear for the destination you’ll visit! Grab your free printable packing checklist by clicking the image below!

This site contains affiliate links which means WE may receive commissions for purchases made through these links. We only provide links to products we actually use and/or wholeheartedly recommend! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read the full Disclosure Policy.

What to pack for a winter vacation.

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Insulated boots
• Heavy wool socks – we LOVE  Darn Tough Socks!
• Walking stick or  trekking poles
• Wicking and quick-drying base layers
• Fleece jacket
• Wool, down or heavy-weight insulated jacket
• Waterproof rain jacket
• Insulating hat
• Insulating winter gloves
• Fleece neck gaiter or buff
• WATER –  water bottles  or  hydration backpack
• FOOD –  healthy snacks
• Flashlight or  headlamp
• National Park maps
• Lip protection with sunscreen
• Polarized sunglasses
• Hand lotion
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit
• National Parks Pass

Here's a list road trip ideas in the US if you're looking to travel during the winter months. In this guide you’ll find travel tips, attractions, recommended activities and a packing checklist to help you plan a fabulous vacation this winter.

The Best Road to Hana Stops Written by a Resident

When you think of Hawaii, road trips may not be the first thing to come to mind. But you’d be missing out if you didn’t experience the road to Hana. This iconic road trip takes you along the Maui coastline through lush rainforest, past flowing waterfalls and breath taking seascape views.  The best part is, you can enjoy this drive anytime of the year as it’s always summer in Hawaii.

A Southern Arizona Road Trip Is Perfect In The Winter

Southern Arizona is one of the best destinations for a winter road trip. Driving through the Sonoran Desert in the winter you'll understand why it is known as the greenest desert on the planet: the vegetation is alive at this time of the year, you might even find some wildflowers and cactus varieties in bloom, you can’t beat the pleasant weather, perfect temperatures and sunshine. 

Foodie Road Trip from San Francisco to San Diego

A winter road trip from San Francisco tp San Diego is a great way to avoid the snow that much of the U.S. experiences. The coastal drive will have less tourists and less fog that the summer months, but the views will be just as gorgeous. And for wildlife lovers, elephants seal pupping season lasts throughout the winter, and there are a couple of reserves along this route!

Yellowstone Winter Vacation: An Unforgettable Experience

This Yellowstone National Park travel guide gives you all the information you need to plan a winter road trip: services and lodging available, road status, weather, and more!

Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Winter

If you're looking for an amazing winter road trip destination, Jackson Hole is the perfect town to add to your list. Jackson Hole, Wyoming is an incredible winter wonderland filled with skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and a charming town center. Grand Teton National Park is only a few minutes away.

13 Things to do in Salt Lake City in the Winter

Salt Lake City is the perfect winter road trip destination as there are many amazing things to do very close to the city such as skiing, tubing, and hiking. Additionally the city makes a great hub to explore surrounding areas such as the southern Utah national parks, Moab, Jackson Hole, Southern Idaho and more.

Tips and Activities for Visiting Utah National Parks in the Winter

Winter is a quiet time at the Utah National Parks. Yes, you’ll find cold temperatures and maybe even snow, but that adds to the beauty of these stunning national parks. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a road trip to visit all 5 National Parks in Utah.

Badlands Below Zero: Tips For Visiting The Badlands In The Winter

You’ll need to be prepared for snow, wind, and icy roads when doing a winter road trip to the Badlands. But the landscape is beautiful, covered in a layer of snow!

An Overnight Adventure at Pokagon State Park

In addition to the normal winter fun to be found at a State Park (snowshoeing, hiking and cross-country skiing), Pokagon State Park in northern Indiana has something truly special - a toboggan run. With a vertical drop of 90 feet and speeds up to 35 mph, this refrigerated toboggan run is a fun and unique way to enjoy winter!

9 Places to Celebrate Christmas in Pigeon Forge for Winterfest

Known for being a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge makes a great winter road trip for anyone looking to spend the holidays surrounded by nature, twinkling lights, and plenty of southern charm.

Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg In Winter

While winter doesn’t have the best reputation for being the most ideal season to travel, Gatlinburg is an exception. This quaint little mountain town in Tennessee transforms into a winter wonderland, and there are still plenty of fun things to do!

How to Spend a Weekend in Asheville, NC

For an underrated winter road trip idea, head to Asheville, NC where you can enjoy the city with fewer crowds. Visit between early November and early January to see Christmas at Biltmore and Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum. You can also visit one of the many spas for a relaxing getaway, award-winning craft breweries, or layer up for a stunning hike where you can see for miles through the leafless trees.

16 Best Ways to Experience Christmas in Helen GA (for Cheap!)

Take a winter road trip to Helen to experience authentic German culture in this Georgia mountain town modeled after Bavarian villages located in the Alps. 

11 Best Key West Beaches to Visit

The Florida Keys is one of the best winter road trips to go on in Florida. The weather is beautiful in the winter, making it a great time to visit. The views driving through the different keys is second to none. Once you get to Key West there are lots of fun things to do and very pretty beaches to visit. 

21 Best Day Trips from Orlando

Orlando and the surrounding cities makes a great winter road trip. Starting in Orlando, you can visit the springs to see the manatees, visit historic St. Augustine, and enjoy the fun things to do in Clearwater and Tampa. If you want to continue your road trip, you can continue down to Fort Myers and Sanibel Island.

Road Trip Planner

Be sure to grab the Road Trip Packing List that includes all the supplies you need for comfort, organization, eating, and first aid to make the family vacation a success. You’ll also receive a Road Trip Itinerary to plan the day-to-day schedule of the trip! Simply click the graphic below to get your free copy!

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Taking a road trip this winter? Don't drive off until you go through this checklist

For anyone experiencing wanderlust after being cooped up over the holidays, a winter road trip can be a safe way to scratch that travel itch, even during the pandemic . Before you head out, though, check the COVID-19 risk level along your route and review the AAA COVID-19 travel restrictions map . And no matter the number of days or distance of your road trip, be sure you – and your car – are ready to drive in the snow.

Driving anywhere in the cold weather and winter months requires special considerations. We spoke with Elizabeth Carey from AAA Western and Central New York to find out her best tips for cold weather road trips. 

Travel restrictions by state:   Which areas still require COVID tests or quarantines?

1. Know before you go

Before anything else, it’s important to know where you’re going. Are you heading into an area that’s prone to lake effect snow? What’s the weather forecast during your trip? Check the National Weather Service website for area road conditions, including regional winter weather advisories and storm watches, and download a good weather app to make sure you’re prepared. 

2. Test your car's battery

Nothing’s worse than the car not starting when everyone’s ready to go. If your engine’s slow to start, the lights dim when starting, or the car battery’s simply old, you may need a new one. Most car batteries last three to five years, so if your battery is more than three years old, get it checked before a cold weather road trip. A mechanic can easily test the battery and charging system. Make sure the battery terminals and cable ends are free from corrosion and the connections are tight. Finally, make sure you have jumper cables on hand and know how to use them.

3. Check your lights

It gets dark early on a winter road trip, so be sure that your headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers are all working. Replace any burnt-out bulbs before hitting the road, and throw in a working flashlight in your glove compartment while you’re at it. 

More travel ideas:  10 best places for vacations with teenagers

4. Measure air pressure in your tires

Tires are probably the single most important part of safe winter driving. Make sure all four tires have the proper tread for the best traction while driving in potentially snowy conditions. If you live in (or are heading to) an area with heavy winter weather, snow tires will provide the best traction. Regular, all-season tires work well in light to moderate snow conditions, too, provided they have enough tread. 

AAA recommends replacing any tire whose tread is worn to 2/32 of an inch or less. One way to tell is to place a penny in the tread; if you see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire needs to be replaced. Don’t forget to make sure your tires are properly inflated, too. As the temperature drops, so does the tire pressure, typically one PSI for every 10 degrees. Underinflated tires can affect braking distance, steering, and handling. Look for the proper tire pressure in your owner’s manual or the tire information sticker in the driver’s door jamb. 

5. Check your wiper blades and fluid levels

Make sure your wiper blades can clear your windshield, and replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots. Fill-up the windshield washer reservoir with fluid that won’t freeze when the temperature drops. Winter deicer fluids are formulated to prevent the solution from freezing, and also contains chemicals that melt ice and frost. Don’t forget the engine coolant/antifreeze when checking fluid levels as well. Antifreeze lowers the freezing point of the engine’s liquid coolant system preventing the car from overheating. 

6. Pack your winter gear, but don’t wear it while driving

Make sure you have coats, scarves, gloves, boots and hats with you, but keep them separate while driving. The bulky coats limit arm movements, gloves decrease sensing steering wheel feedback, and large boots can interfere with the pedals. For infants in child seats, those puffy winter coats can cause car seat restraints to not fit securely. Pack the winter gear close at hand, but save the layers for the outdoors. 

7. Stock an emergency kit

Don’t leave home without a proper car emergency kit that includes some basic items like a first aid kit, snacks (for both humans and any pets), ice scraper with brush, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, wrench), warning flares, cloths or paper towels, some drinking water, and an emergency blanket in case you find yourself stranded in some bad winter weather. 

8. Give your car a checkup

Before any major winter road trip, AAA recommends taking your vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough checkup of the brakes, drive belts, engine hoses, and all fluids (transmission, brake, and power steering). 

Family Car Rentals:  How not to overpay when renting a car 

9. Keep emergency numbers handy

Make sure you have important phone numbers for emergency services programmed into your mobile device, and don’t forget to bring a car charger for your phone or tablet as well.

10. Use extra care when driving in the snow

If you’re out on your drive and get caught in a snow squall, don’t panic. Here are some basic tips for driving in the snow:

• Drive slowly and keep your speed down to account for decreased traction.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid skids.
• Increase your following distance to five or six seconds to account for the longer distance needed to stop.
• When braking, keep your heel on the floor and apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
• If possible, don’t stop when driving up a hill, as it can be difficult to get moving again on an icy road. However, don’t power up hills either. Applying extra gas on the snow-covered roads will only make your wheels spin.
• Finally, make sure all the windows of your car are clear of snow.

11. Pack a shovel and sand (grit)

If you get stuck in the snow (or plowed in), you’ll be glad you packed a small shovel to dig yourself out. A bag of some sort of grit (sand, salt, cat litter) will help your tires grab on icy surfaces as well as give some extra weight in the back of the car.  

Embrace the season with a safe winter road trip, and once you reach your destination, pull out that shovel and spend some time helping the kids build an epic snow fort.  

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 family road trip ideas kids will love 
• The most comfortable travel clothes (for the whole family) 
• 15 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. 

Dave Parfitt is a freelance travel writer with a Ph.D in neuroscience whose work has appeared in Lonely Planet, AAA, Fox News Travel, US News & World Report, TravelAge West, and FamilyVacationist, among others.

Everything you need to know to take a winter road trip

With the right planning and preparation, every season is road trip season

By Brent Rose & Roadtrippers

Winter, as they say, is coming. But scarier than White Walkers is black ice—because it’s real and can be dangerous. While the risks of roadtripping during winter are real, so are the rewards as destinations are less likely to be crawling with tourists. Whether you’re headed to a snow-covered national park or ski area , let’s talk about how to best be prepared when tackling a winter road trip to mitigate the hazards to the best of our abilities.

Before the trip

A lot of the most important things you can do to make a winter road trip safer happen days before you actually get on the road.

Weather reports and road closures

Nothing like being deep in the middle of nowhere only to find out that a pass is closed and you’re going to have to backtrack five hours in the dark. Google Maps generally keeps routes updated for hazards, but you can’t rely on that, especially in more remote areas. It doesn’t take long to do this research, and information about road closures is usually pretty easy to find.

Search “[state name] road conditions,” and you’ll find some good links. One site,  IcyRoadSafety.com , has a lot of resources on a state-by-state level. Check those before you leave, and once you’re on the road dial 511 from time to time for even more up-to-date info about conditions.

Give your car a checkup

If you’re going to be putting down some serious miles in the cold, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by a professional—or at least someone who really knows what they’re doing. A full inspection is recommended, but here’s a quick checklist of things to pay extra close attention to:

• Make sure your heater is in good working order and that you have plenty of antifreeze in your radiator.
• Check all your lights and replace any that appear to be dim or dying.
• If your wiper blades are looking a bit ragged, don’t wait to replace them. You’ll thank yourself when the weather turns ugly.
• Make sure that you have wiper fluid rated to -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 C).
• Check the health of your battery.
• Consider getting an oil change, and if you do, ask for a winter-friendly oil (motor oils are rated by their viscosity levels at different temperatures) that still works with your specific engine. You may need to refer to your owner’s manual.

Related Get road trip ready: How to prepare your car for a road trip

Tires and chains

Tires get their own special section because for winter driving they really are that important. If your tires are showing signs of wear, losing tread, or generally looking shoddy, replace them now. This might seem obvious, but your tires are the only thing that connect your vehicle to the road, so they’re kind of critical. In fact, tests have shown that a good pair of snow tires is arguably more important than having four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. If you’re going to be doing a lot of driving in tough winter conditions, dedicated snow tires may be a worthwhile investment.

Also extremely important: Get a set of chains for your tires. Chains used to be a real pain to put on, but technology moves forward, and now they attach very easily. They give you way more traction in snow and ice and are mandatory if you’re going to be dealing with steep roads in the mountains. Get them and keep them in your trunk all winter.

Add time to the plan

When you’re plotting your route , shorten the distance between destinations on a given day. If you would normally cover 400 miles, limit yourself to 300 instead. Not only are you going to have to drive slower than you normally would on a balmy summer’s day, but there are other things to contend with as well.

In winter, you have much less daylight to work with, and winter driving gets exponentially more treacherous at night. This is especially true if the weather was above freezing during the day. If it’s been warm enough for snow to melt, then—once the sun goes down and the temps drop—you’re likely going to be facing black ice (frozen roads with an essentially invisible layer of ice on top). That’s one of the most dangerous things you can encounter in a car, and you should avoid it at all costs. If that means your road trip takes 7 days instead of 6, and you have to shell out for an additional night in a hotel, do it.

What to pack

In addition to packing all the stuff you want to have with you for your trip, reserve some space in your trunk for a fair amount of additional gear specific to winter road tripping. This is stuff you should leave in your car for the duration of your journey.

Related Road trip essentials: How and what to pack for your road trip

Extra warm clothes.  Got an old, heavy winter jacket that’s too ugly to wear in public? Keep it in the trunk. Heavy winter gloves are extremely important, too, since you may be working with your hands, and I’d add a rain poncho to the package as well.

Cold weather blankets.  Hopefully, you won’t have to spend the night in your car, but if you do, you’ll be very happy you had these.

Flashlights.  Have at least two in your car, and do yourself a favor: Make sure one of them is a headlamp.

Food and water.  If you happen to get stuck in the snow, you may well need some calories. Look for non-perishable items that also won’t freeze into a brick. Since water most certainly  will freeze into a brick, keep spare bottles inside the car instead of in the trunk.

Ice scraper.  Even if everything goes perfectly according to plan, you’ll very likely need this. Get one with a brush on the back to help clear snow off your hood and your lights.

Road flares.  If you end up with a dead car on the side of the road in the middle of a blizzard, you want your car to be as visible as possible, so a driver (or a snow plow) doesn’t obliterate it. Road flares are very bright—use ‘em.

Shovel.  You might need to dig your way out of a little situation. You can find foldable shovels that will do the job without dominating your whole trunk.

Jumper cables.  In case you need a jump.

Tow rope.  In case you need a tow.

First aid kit.  If you have an accident in bad weather, it may be some time before help can get to you. Best to be able to patch up small cuts and stuff while you wait.

Car charger and portable USB power pack.  You likely already have some way to charge your phone in your car. If you don’t, get one. Additionally, carry a portable USB power pack to charge your phone and other gadgets even if your car’s electrical system goes out.

Spare batteries.  For anything that takes batteries (flashlights, your car’s key fob, etc.).

Matches and camping stove.  Make sure your matches are stormproof and can light even when wet and in howling winds. For the stove, have a cheap, one-burner setup that just screws onto a small propane bottle. Hopefully, you won’t need this, but if you need to melt snow to make water or heat some water to stave off hypothermia, you’ll be happy you had it. Important note: Make sure you have adequate airflow in your car (crack at least two windows) before igniting your stove.

Cat litter.  You may be able to get yourself out of a slippery situation by pouring some kitty litter under your tires to give yourself more traction. You’ll probably be way better off with the aforementioned snow chains, though.

Multitool.  In addition to the tools you hopefully have for maintaining your car (a cheap socket set, a jack, a tire iron, etc.), it’s good to have a multitool for working on smaller things. It can be helpful for cooking, repairs, and even medical work.

Extra wiper fluid.  Again, of the type that’s rated to -40 degrees F/C.

Hot packs.  You may be really happy that you had a small box of chemical hand warmers. Once you can’t feel your fingers, it becomes significantly more difficult to do things that ensure your survival. If you’ve got the space in your trunk, it couldn’t hurt to have these.

Related Road trip tips: How to prepare for the road with snacks, apps, and entertainment

While on the road

Ice, snow, and rain all extend the distance it takes you to come to a full and complete stop. The best way to get some of that (potentially life-saving) distance back is to slow down. Go slower than you want to.

Know how to stop (your specific vehicle)

If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), that’s good. You can firmly apply your foot to the brake and hold it down, and the ABS will do everything it can to keep you from skidding out. If you don’t have ABS, you’re going to have to pump your brakes on and off to keep your wheels from sliding out. Obviously, this is much more prone to human error. Practice the technique in a big, flat, empty, snow-covered parking lot so you can get the feel for it. There are plenty of videos on YouTube that demonstrate the technique.

Half-full is the new empty

Waiting until your fuel light comes on before heading to a gas station is a bad idea for several reasons, even in warm conditions. In winter, you don’t want to risk it because if you get stuck, you may need to keep your engine running to keep you warm until help arrives. For this reason (and because an open gas station may be harder to find in a storm), when your tank is down to half, seek a refill. You’ll have to stop more often (another reason to add more time to the plan), but you’ll be better covered in an emergency.

When to turn  off  traction control

Traction control systems can be great when you’re driving down the road. When you’re starting from a standstill, or if you’re a bit buried, it can actually work against you. If you’re struggling to get started, try turning it off, and putting down some kitty litter in front of and behind your tires.

Keep your lights clean

Seeing and being seen are mission-critical. Every time you stop, clear your lights of any snow or mud that has accumulated. Not just your headlights but your tail and brake lights, too. Even if you don’t have to stop for any other reason, it’s smart to pull off the road to do this every hour or so, or more often if you notice your lights are getting dimmer.

Watch out on bridges and overpasses

These features have surfaces that are far more prone to collecting water and freezing. Some of them are even exposed metal. Go way slower than you normally would.

No cruising

Keep cruise control turned off. In adverse conditions, it can make you hydroplane or spin out if your car hits a big puddle or a patch of ice.

If you do get stuck…

If you get stuck, try to get your vehicle to the side of the road and then  stay with your vehicle . You have a far better chance of surviving if you remain with your mobile shelter there. Get out your flares and put them around your vehicle, starting dozens of yards back, if possible, to give drivers more time to react. This also helps to signal that you’re in trouble.

Put on those extra warm layers, keep your flashers going, and call for help if you have cell service. You’ll want to start the car (if it’s able) and let it run here and there so you can keep using the heater. If you do that, make sure you dig out the tailpipe. You’ll also want to pull the rest of your emergency supplies out of the trunk and into your car. Grab them all early, so you don’t have to make more trips later. Other than that, just try to stay calm. Remind yourself this is why you prepared.

Don’t drive drunk

This is a no-brainer, but please, please, please don’t drive when intoxicated. Winter conditions are very demanding, and you need your wits about you and your reflexes at their best. There are a lot of holiday parties this time of year, and even if you aren’t attending them, others will be. Look out for other intoxicated drivers on the road. Stay sharp.

There are certainly other things you can do and items you can add (like a two-way satellite communicator, for example) to mitigate risk and do your own homework before undertaking any large, cold-weather journeys. Hopefully, these basic tips, though, will get you safely to your destination.

Meet the Authors

Brent Rose is a freelance writer and regular Outside contributor. He is currently traveling the U.S. living in a high tech van, looking for stories to tell. Follow his adventures on ConnectedStates.com.

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Luxury Winter Road Trip through the Southwest

Taking a winter road trip through the Southwest is a magical experience with crisp, clear days and a coating of snow giving an entirely new perspective to these dramatic red rock landscapes. Visitor numbers drop sharply with the temperatures and you’ll have some of the most iconic locations in the Southwest to yourself. Combining this majestic landscape with carefully crafted experiences that will bring this incredible area to life and you have a luxury winter road trip to remember.

Days 1 & 2

After your arrival into Phoenix, ease into the colder climes to come with two nights in Sedona, where moderate daytime temperatures and mesmerizing landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.

From your base at the stunning Enchantment Resort, venture out on foot into the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness, tackle the single track of Bell Rock Loops by mountain bike, or access the backcountry in a Jeep Wrangler.

The Grand Canyon

Day 3 & 4

From Sedona, it’s time to enjoy arguably the most beautiful drive in the state, Oak Creek Canyon, as you climb up onto the Colorado Plateau en route to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

With one fifth of the visitor numbers compared to high season, winter at the South Rim is a special time. You’ll certainly need to wrap up warm but the crisp air, clear blue skies, likely dusting of snow, and the low sun in the Southern sky, all bring an entirely new perspective to this awe-inspiring landscape.

The morning after you arrive you’ll be met by a natural historian guide through whose eyes you’ll gain added insight into this jaw-dropping natural wonder. Equipped with a pair of instep crampons, descent into the canyon down South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point (or another than receives good winter sun). Not only does winter means less crowds but the colder weather also makes longer hikes more pleasant. You’ll also have access to a vehicle that will allow you to see a wide range of different viewpoints and perspectives of the canyon. As darkness falls, warm up by the fire at the historic El Tovar Hotel.

Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

The journey continues as you make your way north to one of the most remarkable hotels in the country, the incomparable Amangiri. First make a stop in Page to meet your Navajo guide who’ll lead you through two of the area’s famed slot canyons, the well-known Antelope Canyon and the lesser-visited Rattlesnake Canyon. Walking through this wonderland of color-swirled, water-worn rock is a magical experience made all the better by the absence of the crowds you’ll encounter in the summer.

Day 6 & 7

Countless superlative have been applied to Amangiri and chances are they are deserved. It is utterly unique, effortlessly luxurious, and its design, from perfectly framed desert landscapes to a James Turrell-esque use of natural light, is a work of art in itself. Winter is a wonderful time to be here with cold nights and crisp, bluebird days the norm.

Take to the waters of Lake Powell, as its glassy surface mirrors picturesque side canyons and secluded bays with sandy beaches – a view best captured during the winter months, when the lake appears in its purest, most unaltered state. The winter months are also ideal for exploring the surrounding desert landscapes and, whether on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, there are endless opportunities depending on your zest for adventure. Spend your evenings back at Amangiri soaking in the heated pool or taking in the desert night sky by your private firepit.

Monument Valley

Winter in Monument Valley and in the wider Navajo Nation holds a special significance. It’s a time when the elders re-tell the oral histories and creation story of the Navajo, with winter being the time when the insects, reptiles, and other animals are hibernating and unable to hear them.

You’ll experience this iconic landscape with a local Navajo guide who will give you access to normally off-limits backcountry areas where you’ll see natural arches, rock amphitheaters, and ancient petroglyphs, as well of course as the spectacular buttes and spires that make Monument Valley instantly recognizable the world over.

Finish your day in the small Bluff, Utah and the welcoming Desert Rose Inn.

Dunton Hot Springs

Day 9, 10 & 11

Conclude your winter road trip by traveling east into Colorado and the snow-capped peaks of the San Juans. Nestled in a secluded valley, Dunton Hot Springs is rustic luxury at its very best. You’ll be surrounded by a winter wonderland to play in by day and enjoy fantastic food, hot springs, and cozy cabins by night.

Spend your days snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along wilderness trails in the spectacular San Juan Mountains that surround Dunton and adventure-seekers should look no further than a day’s heli-skiing in the backcountry of Telluride. Finish on a high by whisking through the snowy forests and alpine meadows on a private dog sledding trip.

Catch a flight out of nearby Durango, Colorado.

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Road trips USA: Route inspiration and ideas

There's no vacation more American than a road trip through the USA. To help you plan your adventure, we're sharing some of the best road trip routes in the USA, from Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway. Plus, find out what factors to consider when choosing when and where to go.

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Suitable cars for your road trip in the U.S.

Best time to do a road trip in the u.s., estimate your road trip budget, one-week road trip usa: from seattle to los angeles, the ultimate 2-week road trip in the u.s., 5-day road trip in texas.

The U.S. is a massive country with diverse road conditions, so the best rental car for your USA road trip depends on your route. If you're taking a city-centric East Coast road trip, consider booking a smaller rental car to more easily navigate city streets. If you're crossing vast distances out in the wilderness, a larger vehicle like an SUV might be more suitable. Avoid electric vehicles when driving remote routes, as charging stations may be sparse.

Because the U.S. is so vast, there's no singular best time to take a road trip. The weather varies dramatically across the country. For instance, the wettest month in New York City is July, yet July is the driest month in Los Angeles (data sourced on weatherbase.com ). And while the average temperature is below freezing in Salt Lake City in January, the average temperature in Los Angeles is a mild 57.3°F. Overall, it's best to avoid extreme weather no matter what USA road trip route you're taking, so avoid winter up north and summer down south or in the desert.

You should also consider the popularity of the destinations along your route. Peak travel months may mean accommodations and rental cars are more expensive and harder to book. Most tourism peaks in the summer or during the holidays (based on KAYAK’s flight searches data), so consider traveling during spring or fall for the fewest crowds and more reasonable prices.

Before you select your road trip destination and length, you might want to know how much a USA road trip can cost you. Here is some data, based on the comparisons of hundreds of travel providers, to help you estimate the cost of your trip and adapt accordingly.

• Average daily rate for a car rental in NYC: $109
• Average daily rate for a car rental in Los Angeles: $69
• Average price for one night in a mid-range hotel in NYC: $318
• Average price for one night in a mid-range hotel in Los Angeles: $233
• Cost of 1 gallon of gas in NYC in March 2024: $3.86
• Cost of 1 gallon of gas in Los Angeles in March 2024: $5.35 (source: numbeo.com )

For an East Coast USA road trip, the cost of a one-week journey that spans 700 miles might be about $3100 for 2 travelers ($1550 per person).

For a West Coast USA road trip, the cost of a one-week journey that spans 700 miles might be about $2280 for 2 travelers ($1140 per person).

To reduce expenses, consider camping if the weather is mild . Plus, if you travel with more than one other person, you can split expenses even more. But do keep in mind that these estimated costs are just for the rental car, gas, and accommodations. You'll still have to pay for food and entrance fees to attractions, whether museums or national parks.

Rent a convertible to drive down the Pacific Coast Highway on this iconic USA road trip.

Day 1: Seattle

Start your trip in Seattle, home to iconic attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and the Museum of Flight. Fuel up your body and mind with some coffee, as Seattle is known for its coffee culture.

Where to stay in the Seattle area: Hyatt Regency Seattle is the best rated hotel in town, according to KAYAK data.

Day 2: Portland

Distance from Seattle: 174 miles – 2 hours 40 minutes

On your drive from Seattle to Portland, consider making a side journey to Mount St. Helens for scenic views, a history lesson and some epic hiking. Once in Portland, don't miss a visit to the Portland Japanese Garden, and wrap up your day with a beer from a local brewery (there are many to choose from!).

Where to stay in the Portland area: One of the most elegant hotels in town is The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton .

Day 3: Crater Lake National Park

Distance from Portland: 232 miles – 4 hours

In the warm months, take the opportunity to go boating on the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake, which is 1,943 feet deep. If you'd rather stay on solid ground, consider hiking the many trails along its edge.

Where to stay in the Crater Lake National Park area: Crater Lake Resort is located in the nearest town to the national park, Fort Klamath.

Day 4: Redwood National and State Parks

Distance from Crater Lake National Park: 154 miles – 3 hours

Redwood trees are some of the largest in the world, topping out over 300 feet tall. They're also some of the world's oldest, living up to 2,000 years.

Where to stay in the Redwood National and State Parks area: The Historic Requa Inn has beautiful views of the Klamath River.

Day 5: San Francisco

Distance from Redwood National and State Parks: 311 miles – 5 hours 30 minutes

There's far too much to do in San Francisco than can be accomplished in a single day, but we'd recommend visiting Alcatraz Island, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge and listening to the sea lions bark at Fisherman's Wharf.

Where to stay in the San Francisco area: If you're willing to splurge, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero offers bird's-eye views of the city.

Day 6: Morro Bay

Distance from San Francisco: 232 miles – 4 hours

Morro Bay is the halfway point between San Francisco and Los Angeles along Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. It's a good overnight stop, but spend most of your day exploring the California coast, from Monterey (home to the famous Monterey Aquarium) to Big Sur.

Where to stay in the Morro Bay area: The Estero Inn overlooks Morro Bay Rock and the harbor, and it's one of the most highly rated hotels in town.

Day 7: Los Angeles

Distance from Morro Bay: 202 miles – 3 hours 20 minutes

As you make your way down the coast, visit San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Then once in LA, the world is your oyster. Visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier, take a Hollywood studio tour or visit one of the city's world-class museums.

Where to stay in the Los Angeles area: The Fairmont Century Plaza is a historic hotel that's fairly centrally located, making it easy to get around town.

There's no USA road trip more iconic than Route 66, also known as the Mother Road. Here's how to travel its full length, with stops at a few must-see off-route destinations.

Day 1: Chicago, IL

You'll find the beginning of Route 66 in Chicago at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. Before you start driving, take a moment to enjoy some of Chicago's top attractions, from its numerous museums to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (you might know it as "the bean").

Where to stay in Chicago area: Chicago Athletic Association has stunning architecture, as well as a rooftop bar with views of Millennium Park.

Day 2: Springfield, IL

Distance from Chicago: 202 miles – 3 hours

It's all about Route 66 in this Illinois town. Visit the Route 66 Twin Drive-In or the Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum for a taste of Route 66 history. And don't miss the chance to snap a photo of the Lauterbach Giant.

Where to stay in the Springfield area: The Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel is one of the most highly rated hotels in town.

Day 3: St. Louis, MO

Distance from Springfield: 101 miles – 1 hour 30 minutes

Just down the road from Springfield is St. Louis, home of the grand Gateway Arch. After you make your way to the top, visit the City Museum, an architectural playground for children and adults alike in a 600,000-square-foot industrial building.

Where to stay in the St. Louis area: The St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton is housed in the former train station, and its lobby is breathtaking.

Day 4: Branson, MO

Distance from St. Louis: 253 miles – 4 hours

Branson might be just off Route 66, but it's a resort destination worth a stop. Choose between relaxing on Table Rock Lake or visiting any one of the numerous attractions here, from the Titanic Museum Attraction to Dolly Parton's Stampede.

Where to stay in the Branson area: The Lodge of the Ozarks is one of the top-rated hotels in the region.

Day 5: Tulsa, OK

Distance from Branson: 220 miles – 3 hours 17 minutes

Architecture lovers will enjoy Tulsa's Art Deco buildings, while music lovers won't want to miss the Woody Guthrie Center. And aviation lovers should visit the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium.

Where to stay in the Tulsa area: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tulsa Downtown is one of the highest-rated hotels here.

Day 6: Oklahoma City, OK

Distance from Tulsa: 106 miles – 1 hour 35 minutes

Oklahoma City has no shortage of attractions, from the Myriad Botanical Gardens to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Plus, you can visit the poignant Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, honoring the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the Oklahoma City Bombing.

Where to stay in the Oklahoma City area: The National, Autograph Collection is located inside a former bank, and its

Day 7: Amarillo, TX

Distance from Oklahoma City: 260 miles – 4 hours

For a photo op, make for Cadillac Ranch, an unusual roadside art installation comprising a series of 10 Cadillacs. For dinner, dig into the 72-ounce steak at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. If you finish it (and its trimmings) within an hour, it's on the house.

Where to stay in the Amarillo area: The highest-rated hotel in Amarillo is TownePlace Suites by Marriott Amarillo West/Medical Center .

Day 8: Santa Fe, NM

Distance from Amarillo: 279 miles – 4 hours 14 minutes

Take the Santa Fe loop of Route 66 to visit artsy Santa Fe. The city is a haven for creative types, who will be drawn to institutions like the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum or interactive attractions like Meow Wolf.

Where to stay in the Santa Fe area: Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe has charming rooms in adobe buildings, plus free parking.

Day 9: Albuquerque, NM

Distance from Santa Fe: 64 miles – 1 hour 3 minutes

It's a short drive today, which means you can spend your morning in Santa Fe before heading to Albuquerque attractions like Petroglyph National Monument, Sandia Peak Tramway and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.

Where to stay in the Albuquerque area: Hotel Chaco is one of the highest-rated hotels in town.

Day 10: Flagstaff, AZ

Distance from Albuquerque: 323 miles – 4 hours 50 minutes

Use Flagstaff as your home base for visiting Grand Canyon National Park, which is just 90 minutes away. At night, visit the nearby Lowell Observatory for stargazing.

Where to stay in the Flagstaff area: The High Country Motor Lodge has a retro road-trip vibe.

Day 11: Page, AZ

Distance from Flagstaff: 129 miles – 2 hours 17 minutes

Page is another detour from Route 66, but we think it's a worthwhile one for the landscapes. This is the nearest town to Antelope Canyon, one of the most picturesque slot canyons in the Southwest, and the scenic Horseshoe Bend.

Where to stay in the Page area: The highest-rated hotel in town is Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell .

Day 12: St. George, UT

Distance from Page: 154 miles – 2 hours 35 minutes

Add another national park to this road trip: Zion National Park. This Utah stunner, known for its red rock cliffs and dramatic landscapes, is best accessed from St. George.

Where to stay in the St. George area: Staybridge Suites St. George is a top mid-tier hotel in the area.

Day 13: Las Vegas

Distance from St. George: 120 miles – 1 hour 45 minutes

No, Las Vegas isn't on Route 66, but if you're all the way over here, Sin City is worth a visit. If gambling isn't your thing, visit the Neon Museum for a taste of Vegas history, then catch a show in the evening.

Where to stay in the Las Vegas area: Encore at the Wynn Las Vegas is the highest-rated hotel on the Strip.

Day 14: Los Angeles

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles – 4 hours 5 minutes

Congratulations, you made it! Route 66 ends in Santa Monica. Celebrate with a dip in the Pacific Ocean, a sunset view off Santa Monica Pier or an ice-cold drink at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe.

Where to stay in the Los Angeles area: Treat yourself to an ocean view at Shutters on the Beach .

As the second largest state in the US, Texas is an ideal candidate for a road trip. Visit several of its major cities (plus one fun pit stop) on this five-day journey.

Day 1: Dallas

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis, so pick one or two things to do during your brief stay. We recommend a taste of presidential history at the George W. Bush Presidential Center and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for a look into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Where to stay in the Dallas area: Hotel ZaZa is one of the highest-rated boutique hotels in town.

Day 2: Fort Worth

Distance from Dallas: 32 miles – 33 minutes

Fort Worth (is the oft-overlooked counterpart to Dallas, but it's renowned for its works by architectural icons like Philip Johnson Fort Worth Water Gardens), Louis I. Kahn (Kimbell Art Museum), and Tadao Ando (Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth). Plus, don't miss the Old West heritage in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Watch the twice-daily cattle drive to see Texas longhorns on the move, then head to Billy Bob's, the world's largest honky tonk, for a concert and a round of pool.

Where to stay in the Fort Worth area: For a highly rated hotel in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards district, pick the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Worth Historic Stockyards

Day 3: Waco

Distance from Fort Worth: 89 miles – 1 hour 21 minutes

En route from Fort Worth to Austin, the city of Waco is worthy of an overnight. Fans of home renovation TV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines will no doubt want to spend time at the Silos, the home base of the couple's Magnolia empire. But there's also the Dr. Pepper Museum and Waco Mammoth National Monument in town.

Where to stay in the Waco area: For some warm hospitality, stay at the Bed and Breakfast on White Rock Creek

Day 4: Austin

Distance from Waco: 102 miles – 1 hour 40 minutes

Live music is everywhere in Austin, so head into your nearest bar to catch some tunes. Animal lovers will want to witness the nightly flight of the Congress Avenue Bridge bats, while nature lovers might enjoy paddling on Lady Bird Lake.

Where to stay in the Austin area: The boutique Colton House Hotel is the highest-rated accommodation in Austin.

Day 5: San Antonio

Distance from Austin: 80 miles – 1 hour 20 minutes

San Antonio's biggest claim to fame might be the Alamo, but the mission is just one of five in the city. After visiting them, head to the trendy Pearl District for dinner and drinks.

Where to stay in the San Antonio area: Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk has a lovely outdoor bar overlooking the Riverwalk.

Though flying from city to city might save you a bit of time, there's no better way to travel the US than via a road trip. If you need information about rental cars , road trip tips or the best places to visit in the US during the summer , we've got you covered.

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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