A trip during winter can be real fun, with the opportunity to go to unique places in a snowy environment. You can enjoy the crisp air, mountains draped in white and sit around cozy fireplaces while enjoying hot cocoa. However, some people want to leave the cold regions and lounge under the sun or swim in warm waters at tropical beaches. Whatever your goal may be, there are a number of options available to those visiting the U.S. during the colder months.
Key West, Florida
Key West is a beautiful city located in the southernmost part of the state of Florida. From Miami, it takes about four hours to cross the 42 bridges that lead to Key West. In winter, the pleasantly warm climate, vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and water sports draw in many fun-seeking tourists from different parts of the world.
During the day, people dive and snorkel at the coral reefs. After nightfall, live bands play at the restaurants and bars on Duval Street. Other attractions in this city include
* Ernest Hemingway House,
* The City Cemetery, and
* Numerous buildings with historic architecture.
Botanical Gardens, New York
If you need a quiet place that offers a sharp contrast to the bustling and exciting life the East coast can offer, you should visit the Botanical Gardens in New York. Enjoy the amazing plants and scents of one of the biggest botanical gardens in the country. This beautiful 250-acre garden is located in Bronx Park, NYC. It has over a million living plant species and it receives more than a million people every year. Escape the chilly outdoors for the warm and cozy, temperature-controlled indoors this age-old institution has to offer.
The New York Botanical Garden is a place that aims to teach its visitors about ecology, plant science, and healthy eating. In this garden, you can visit the herbarium that contains over 7 million botanical specimens and the old-growth forest – the remnant of the original forest that spanned the entire state of New York before European migrants came in the 17th century.
Big Island, Hawaii
To enjoy tropical warmth and stunning natural beauty, then plan a trip to the Big Island in Hawaii. On this island, you can see hot lava from out of Mt. Kilauea in the Volcanoes National Park. You can enjoy looking at this fiery spectacle every night. You can even take a bike ride to the place where the lava is flowing on the ground or go in a cruise boat to the location where it flows into the ocean. Big Island is also blessed with different waterfalls and scenic beaches including those with uncommon sand colors such as green and black.
Sun Valley, Idaho
If you like snow or outdoor fun in the winter, Sun Valley may be one of the best places to visit. Sun Valley is accessible from major western cities through regular flights. You will enjoy the opportunity to do skiing, ice skating, sleigh riding, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. Sun Valley offers 65 different runs and 13 chairlifts in addition to its famous ski school. As an added bonus, depending on your chosen travel dates, you can also attend the winter Symphony Festival or Film Festival held in March.
Snowmass, Colorado
If you want a family-friendly winter destination, visit Snowmass, Colorado. Snowmass offers a quiet, laid back environment for family skiing. The runs are suitable for both beginner and advanced skiers. Children and parents will cherish the chance to visit the Treehouse Kid’s Adventure Center at the Base Village. There are many indoor activities, which kids can enjoy while it is snowing outside.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park looks amazing during winter. You can see valleys covered with white blankets, frost coated trees, frozen waterfalls, and glass-like reflections over beautiful lakes. During winter, all the crowds that throng this area disappear and you get to see a variety of wildlife coming out. Likewise, you can still enjoy various outdoor adventures like skiing and snowboarding. The prices are much lower than what you pay during summer so you can visit and enjoy a lovely family winter vacation on a budget.
With so many wonderful places to visit in the U.S. during winter, this coming winter may just be the perfect time to take your family out for an exciting vacation. Whether you choose to spend your time in the warmer parts of the West or opt for the colder East coast, you can be assured of having a memorable time with your loved ones.
