These 12 Winter Weekend Getaways in the US Are Perfect for a Quick Escape
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No matter if you want epic skiing or a tropical beach to lounge on, you’ll find what you need in the United States this winter. Get ready to experience the ultimate winter weekend getaways in the US.
As the snow starts to fly and the temperatures drop, people around the world look to hop on a plane and travel somewhere exciting for the weekend. No matter if you want slopes with perfect slopes or a tropical getaway, you’ll find what you need in the US.
These amazing US destinations are easy to get to and offer travelers everything they need for the perfect weekend getaway. Below are the top 12 winter weekend getaways in the US.
Miami, Florida

Miami is one of the best warm-weather weekend getaways in the US this winter. With its tropical beaches, non-stop nightlife, and cultural attractions, it’s easy to see why.
The city is connected to major national and international airports, making it one of the most connected cities in the country. When you arrive, start your weekend off at Miami’s South Beach. Then, head downtown to experience museums such as Paradox Experience Miami.
When you need to refuel for more activities, grab world-famous Cuban food in Little Havana. At night, head to South Beach or downtown to experience the city’s world-renowned nightlife.
Travel Tips
- Try Cuban Cuisine: Try dishes like beef tongue, braised oxtail, and key lime pile at Versailles Restaurant.
- Explore the Wynwood Walls: Book a 20-minute guided tour in Wynwood Walls to learn more about the murals.
Read also: Winter Sun Destinations in the US
Denver, Colorado

Denver is the perfect winter getaway for winter sports enthusiasts and fans of big-city fun. The city is located next to the Rocky Mountains and is a short drive away from epic cross-country skiing.
After enjoying the winter sports nearby, head downtown to check out the historic Larimer Square before visiting the city’s popular museums, such as the Denver Art Museum. Then, take in the winter festivities and ice skating in the city’s parks.
At night, Denver transforms into a hub of nightlife and amazing dining. If you love craft beer, you’ll have plenty of top breweries to visit. As the sun goes down, you can catch live music and entertainment at bars and venues throughout the city.
Travel Tips
- Visit Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore the gardens in winter for $27 and see the holiday light displays.
- Ski at Loveland Ski Area: Get a lift ticket for $50 to hit the slopes at Loveland Ski Area.
Read also: Most Expensive Destinations in the US
San Diego, California

San Diego is a well-connected city with perfect weather and plenty of white sand beaches to enjoy in winter. You’ll get to spend your weekend in famous places such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld.
After experiencing the sights, head to the beach to find secluded beaches and famous places to snorkel or scuba dive. Then, check out the USS Midway Museum inside a former aircraft carrier.
When you need to refuel, head downtown to experience the city’s incredible dining scene. You’ll get to sample some of the best Mexican cuisine in the country. With all the sunshine and margaritas, you may want to “miss” your flight back home.
Travel Tips
- Visit Cabrillo National Monument: Enjoy views of San Diego’s harbor and sykline for $10.
- Try Mexican Cuisine: Grab tortillas, tacos, and tamales at Las Cuatro Milpas.
Read also: Cities for Winter Vacations in the US
Chicago, Illinois

Chicago may be snowy and cold, but there’s nothing like it for a winter getaway. The city has one of the most connected international airports in the world, making a quick vacation easy.
Downtown turns into a festival of holiday lights. Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo to see festive celebrations and some of the most beautiful light shows in the country.
Then, hop into the city’s famous museums. For some of the best art in the country, don’t miss The Art Institute of Chicago. Afterward, make your way to Millenium Park to see the iconic bean sculpture surrounded by snow.
At night, bring your appetite and roam the city’s Michelin restaurants and cozy eateries. Don’t miss a live musical performance or ballet at one of its theaters, including the historic Auditorium Theatre.
Travel Tips
- Ice Skate at Millennium Park: Enjoy skating for $20 with admission and skate rental included.
- See the Holiday Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Enjoy the beautiful light displays and festive atmosphere for free on Mondays.
Read also: Winter Sun Destinations Near the US
Tampa Bay, Florida

Tampa Bay is a warm-weather destination perfect for a winter weekend escape. It is well-connected to major national and international cities, making it easy to visit.
When you arrive, you can choose between visiting the cities of Tampa and St. Petersberg. Both are full of exciting nightlife, fun sights, and plenty of amazing bars and restaurants.
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If lounging in the sun is more your speed, head over to Clearwater Beach to enjoy one of the iconic parks such as Sand Key Park. If you love golfing, the Tampa Bay area is full of world-famous golf courses to try your swing.
Travel Tips
- Explore St. Petersburg’s Dali Museum: Explore Salvador Dali’s art and interactive exhibits for $32.
- Try Cuban Sandwich: Grab a Cuban sandwich at the Columbia Restaurant, which has been operating since 1905.
Read also: U.S. Destinations for a Winter Getaway
New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a well-connected city full of rich entertainment and cultural highlights that make the perfect winter weekend getaway.
Winter is the perfect time to visit the Big Easy, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of exciting events to experience. You can catch the city in full swing, preparing for the Mardi Gras event in March.
When you’re here, dance until you drop at one of the French Quarter’s bars. Or, museum hop around town and learn about Cajun culture and the city’s wild history.
Travel Tips
- Explore the National WWII Museum: Get a ticket for $35 to learn about the United States’ contribution to the Allied victory in World War II.
- Visit Café du Monde: Enjoy beignets and chicory coffee at this cafe in the French Quarter.
Read also: Stunning Fall Hikes in the US
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Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a small city packed with exciting things to do during a weekend getaway in winter. It’s only a short flight or drive from major transportation hubs like Atlanta, making it accessible from many national and international cities.
In winter, the city is filled with holiday excitement and holiday lights. You can shop and sightsee with fewer crowds and take advantage of its historical tours without the long lines of summer.
With cooler weather, don’t miss the chance to dine at Savannah’s award-winning restaurants and grab a seat outdoors. If you have time, end your weekend exploring the Fort Pulaski National Monument, a historic relic of the American Civil War.
Travel Tips
- Try the Famous Pralines: Stop by the Savannah Candy Kitchen to try a 12-piece box of pecan pralines for $29.95.
- Visit the Telfair Museums: Discover art and cultural exhibits for $30.
Read also: Christmas Experience in the US
Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is the capital of the the US. Because of its huge amount of sights, museums, and winter events, it’s one of the best weekend getaways in the US this winter.
You can easily fly into the city from national and international cities. Once you arrive, head downtown to experience the city’s historic monuments such as the United States Capital and the Washington Monument.
After seeing the sights, you can hide from the cold weather in museums such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. At night, you can find live music, theater performances, and nonstop nightlife. You may even see former presidents getting down in the clubs. Anything’s possible in DC.
Travel Tips
- Explore the Smithsonian Museums: Visit museums like the National Museum of American History and Air and Space Museum for free.
- Catch a Show at The Kennedy Center: Enjoy a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, theater, and comedy.
Read also: Christmas Markets in the US
New York City, New York

New York City is an easy destination to get to. Once you’re there, you’ll have almost too many options for enjoying a weekend getaway in style.
Head to Manhatten to take in the historical sights, famous restaurants, and museums. Don’t miss Central Park for the ultimate big-city winter wonderland. You can ice skate under the towering highrises or catch a tour around the city.
No visit would be complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty, the Christmas trees in Rockefeller Center, and the impactful 9/11 Memorial & Museum. After taking in the city’s sights, head to Broadway to enjoy a timeless theater performance.
Travel Tips
- Take a Staten Island Ferry Ride: Ride the Staten Island Ferry for great views of the Statue of Liberty for free.
- Take a Central Park Carriage Ride: Enjoy a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park for $120.
Read also: Winter Landscapes in the World
Dallas, Texas

Dallas is an easy place to travel to for a weekend break. In the winter, the city experiences mild temperatures and has plenty of exciting wintertime events.
Head downtown to experience exciting museums and attractions. Hit up the Meow Wolf Grapevine to experience the ultimate interactive art show. Then, check out the Six Flags Over Texas theme park for roller coasters and plenty of family fun.
Downtown Dallas has must-see museums such as the Dallas Museum of Art. When the sun falls, you’ll have endless entertainment and live music to choose from. For a break from the city, you can rent a car to explore the surrounding countryside, and even catch a rodeo show.
Travel Tips
- Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science: Explore interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for $25.
- Tour the Dallas World Aquarium: See exotic animals from around the world for $29.95.
Read also: Beautiful Cities for Winter Vacations
Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles’s museums, restaurants, beaches, and theme parks are famous around the world. The city is also a major travel hub, making it an easy place to visit for a weekend break in winter.
With near-perfect weather, you can spend your weekend outdoors. Head to the Getty to see priceless art and then visit the Griffith Observatory for planetary fun and some of the best views of the city.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice before touring movie history in Hollywood. At night, visit one of the city’s award-winning restaurants and bars before enjoying the city’s nightlife.
Travel Tips
- Explore the Getty Museum: Make a reservation in advance to discover incredible art collections for free.
- Explore Universal Studios Hollywood: Book a tour for $109 to enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and a movie studio tour.
Read also: Beautiful Places for Winter Landscapes in the US
San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is a tropical destination connected to major airports throughout the US. Once you’re there, you can spend an exciting weekend dancing, eating, and experiencing the city’s culture.
First, walk around the historic old town. Visit the historic forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. Then, take in the tropical vibes at Escambron Beach.
At night, head to the Condado neighborhood for luxurious tropical bars and nightclubs. To experience the heart and soul of the city, you can pop into Old San Juan’s bars for dance parties that last all night.
Travel Tips
- Tour the San Juan Cathedral: Visit the oldest church in the US.
- Explore El Yunque National Forest: Book a day trip from San Juan to discover waterfalls and natural waterslides for $68.
Read also: US Beach Destinations in October
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