Best Winter Vacations in America: 3 Ways to Enjoy the Season

When you think of winter, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it majestic ski slopes? How about cozy towns dusted with gentle snow? If that’s what you think of when you think of winter, it might be time for a vacation. Of course, choosing to go on vacation is one thing, but choosing where to travel is another. Fortunately, we can help! We’ve put together a list of the best winter vacations for you to enjoy the winter season in a whole new way.

Best Winter Vacations for Skiing: The Sierra Nevada, California

Few things say “winter vacation” quite like racing down ski slopes. While there are plenty of great spots to do just that, few can match up to the stunning, snow-capped mountains Sierra Nevada. While this is a great spot for summer vacations too, the area really comes alive as cold weather rolls in. The mountains are layered with soft snow that’s perfect for all kinds of skiing. In particular, be sure to check out Mammoth Mountain, home to the Mammoth Lakes Ski Resort. Mammoth Mountain boasts 3,500 acres of skiable terrain and has one of the longest ski seasons in the country. As a result, you’ll have plenty of of flexibility when it comes to planning out one of the best winter vacations here.

Speaking of flexibility, you’ll find that there’s plenty to enjoy for skiers of all skill levels at Mammoth Mountain. While the majority of the slopes are best suited for intermediate skiers, there are still plenty of slopes that accommodate both beginners and experienced skiers. Not to mention, the area is also great for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Of course, avid snowboarders are sure to have fun during the winter months too.

Where to Stay in the Sierra Nevada

With how popular the Sierra Nevada is, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of places to stay in the area. With that said, if you really want both comfort and convenience, it doesn’t get better than Outbound Mammoth. This all-season alpine retreat offers shuttles for the short drive to Mammoth Mountain, and it has a wide range of accommodations for all kinds of travel groups. Plus, Outbound Mammoth is packed with amenities to make your stay as relaxing as possible.

Amenities

Accommodations

• One-Bedroom Chalet: features one king-size bed, one full bath, resort-style kitchen, wood-burning stove, and living/dining area; dog-friendly and can be connected to Chalet King or Chalet Double; Accommodates two.
• Deluxe King Room: features a king-size bed, full bath, and kitchenette; dog-friendly and can be connected to another Deluxe room or Fireplace Suite. Accommodates two.
• Chalet Two Doubles: features two double-size beds, one full bath, and kitchenette; pet-friendly and can be connected to one-bedroom Chalet. Accommodates four.
• Deluxe Two Queens: features two queen-size beds, full bath, and kitchenette; dog-friendly and can be connected to another Deluxe room or Fireplace Suite. Accommodates four.
• Fireplace Suite: features one king-size bed and a queen-size sofa bed; full bath, gas fireplace, and resort-style kitchenette. Accommodates four.
• One-Bedroom Studio Cabin: features a king-size bed and a queen-size sofa bed; one full bath, efficiency kitchen, and private deck with mountain views. Accommodates four.
• Two-Bedroom Villa Apartment: features a king-size bed, a twin bunk, and a queen-size sofa bed; one full bath, efficiency kitchen, and private deck with mountain views. Accommodates six.
• Two-Bedroom Chalet: features two king-size beds and a lofted double-size bed; two-and-a-half baths, full kitchen and dining area, two wood fireplaces, and a washer/dryer. Accommodates six.
• Six-Bedroom Chalet: features five king-size beds, one queen-size bed, and two double-size beds; six-and-a-half baths, oversized resort-style kitchen, two wood fireplaces with seating, and dining area. Accommodates fourteen.

Best Winter Vacations for Sightseeing: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Sure, skiing is great, but what if you want winter vacation ideas that are a bit less intense? One of the best winter vacation spots for sightseeing is Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This calm, quiet region is well known for its iconic winter wildlife like moose, bison, elk, and wolves. So, the holiday season is a great time to see some of the local fauna. Want a bird’s eye view of the area? Then ride a gondola up to the top of Snow King Mountain, where you’ll have stunning views of the charming old town of Jackson, the National Elk Refuge, and much more in Yellowstone National Park.

While the bird’s eye view of Jackson is lovely, there’s nothing quite like taking in the sights of the town up close. You can stroll through the cozy, picturesque town square and enjoy some ice skating. You’ll also be able to embrace the holiday spirit if you arrive a bit before Christmas, as the town is filled with colorful Christmas lights that brighten the night.

Where to Stay in Jackson Hole

Located in the heart of Jackson Hole, the Alpine House is the best place to stay for Wyoming winter vacations. You’ll be surrounded by the mountains and have easy access to the many fun activities in the area. Plus, this boutique hotel has plenty of rustic charm and a cozy atmosphere to make you feel at home.

Amenities

Accommodations

• Queen Room: features a queen bed and bathroom. Accommodates two guests.
• Grand King Room: features a king bed, bathroom, and private balcony or patio. Accommodates two guests.
• Grand Two Queen Room: features two queen beds, bathroom, and a private balcony.
• Queen Room with Loft: features a queen bed, full bed, bathroom, loft, and private balcony. Accommodates four guests.
• Alpine House Suite: features a king bed, pull out sofa, bathroom, and private balcony. May also come with a kitchenette depending on the suite chosen. Accommodates four guests.

Best Winter Vacations to Avoid Winter Weather: Hawaii

Now, while most people think of snow when they think of the best winter vacations, it’s not the only kind of getaway you can enjoy around this time of year. In fact, a lot of winter travel involves getting away from the cold. So, if you tend to enjoy warm weather, consider trading your skis for sandals and heading to Hawaii. More specifically, the Big Island! Here, you’ll find no shortage of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil forests. Naturally, Hawaii is a pretty popular destination for travelers hoping to escape the cold.

Did you know Hawaii is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes? It’s true! Kīlauea and Mauna Loa call the big island home, and you can see both of them at the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Looking for some peace and quiet? Then step into the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary. Founded in 1982, this sanctuary is a reforested and preserved lush cloud forest ecosystem. Of course, this misty forest is beautiful. However, it offers more than just pretty scenery. It’s also an opportunity to learn. You’ll be able to learn about cloud forests and the important role they play, as well as about the native, endemic, and worldwide species that thrive in this unique environment. Alongside these experiences, you can meditate while taking a sound bath or partake in some yoga!

Where to Stay in Hawaii

We doubt you’d be very shocked to learn that as one of the top destinations for vacations, there are a lot of places to stay in Hawaii. With that said, there’s one unique hotel that stands out from the pack: Pacific 19. Renovated and reopened in 2023, you’ll find this property in Kailua Kona. On top of its comfy accommodations and amenities, it’s convenient located near many of the island’s best attractions. As a result, Pacific 19 is a great home base in Hawaii.

Amenities

Accommodations

• Guestrooms: feature either a king bed or two double beds, bathroom, private balcony, and macrobar. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Ohana Suite: features a king bed, sleeper sofa, two bathrooms, and a living room. Accommodates four guests.
• Apartment Suite: features a king bed, sleeper sofa, kitchenette, bathroom, and a living room. Accommodates four guests.

Browse for the Best Winter Vacations

You’ve gotten to take a look at some of the best spots for winter vacations, but what about getaways for the rest of the year? Well, we’ve got you covered there too. Like you, we’re always on the lookout for the next great adventure. That’s why we’ve put together a list of luxurious, comfortable, and distinct vacation properties. Because no matter what kind of getaway you’re planning, you deserve the best vacation home. Click the link below to see our list of properties, and start preparing for your next adventure.