February is often considered the sweet spot for savvy travelers looking to explore the United States without breaking the bank. While some might flock to expensive tropical escapes, the U.S. offers a diverse range of destinations perfect for both sun-seekers and snow enthusiasts, all while potentially snagging better deals.
If you’re planning a February getaway, the United States is brimming with incredible options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you dream of warm beaches or snowy mountains, let’s explore some of the best places to travel in February in the USA.
Asheville, North Carolina
Activities:
- Winter Lights
- River Arts District Exploration
- Biltmore Estate Tour
- Live Music Scene
- Diverse Dining Experiences
- Winter Hiking Trails
Peak Season: Fall (September to November)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Asheville
Hotels: Find Top Asheville Hotels
Asheville, North Carolina, is a year-round destination, and February is no exception. Embrace the crisp mountain air with a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway trails, beautifully dusted with snow. Indulge in relaxation at a local spa, or immerse yourself in Asheville’s vibrant live music scene. The Biltmore Estate’s grandeur is perpetually captivating, and the city’s breweries are always buzzing. Art museums beckon, and the culinary scene is a delightful fusion of Southern comfort and innovative gastronomy. February in Asheville is also festival season, with events like Taste of Asheville, Blue Grass jams, Mardi Gras celebrations, and Celtic festivals injecting extra energy into this mountain gem.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs at dawn, showcasing its serene cityscape and clear skyView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Palm Springs International Film Festival
- Hiking in Indian Canyons
- Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tours
- Culinary Exploration
Peak Season: Late Fall to Early Spring (November to April)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Palm Springs
Hotels: Discover Top Palm Springs Hotels
Escape the crowds and discover Palm Springs in February. Hiking enthusiasts will find the Coachella Valley in peak condition, with trails for every skill level. As the last snow melts in the mountains, keep an eye out for stunning waterfalls along your hike. Nearby Joshua Tree National Park offers unparalleled stargazing experiences; camp overnight or join a guided tour with Sky Watchers.
With ideal desert temperatures, February is perfect for tennis and golf. Explore the area on two wheels with cycling tours, or discover Frank Sinatra’s favorite restaurants on a walking tour. For a unique experience, consider a covered wagon tour to learn about the local landscape. Accommodation deals can be found in iconic mid-century modern homes or luxurious hotels, although pools might be a bit too cool for swimming. Palm Springs itself buzzes with dining, dancing, distilleries, and nightlife. Don’t miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking panoramic views.
Tampa Bay, Florida
Activities:
- Gasparilla Pirate Fest
- Art and Culture Scene
- Relaxing Beaches
Peak Season: Winter Months (December to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Tampa Bay
Hotels: Explore Top Tampa Bay Hotels
Tampa Bay, Florida, is synonymous with fun, especially in February. Baseball enthusiasts can catch pre-season games as MLB teams like the Orioles and Yankees prepare for the season. Beyond baseball, February is prime manatee viewing season. These gentle sea cows migrate upstream for the winter, and Tampa offers various vantage points for observing them in their natural habitat. Kayaking and canoeing provide an intimate and refreshing way to get close to these amazing creatures.
Tampa is also a hub for classic Florida family attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and the Tampa Museum of Art. February’s event calendar is packed with excitement, including the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, Sant’ Yago Knight Parade, and the sweet Strawberry Festival.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs cityscape blanketed in snow, showcasing winter residential charmView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Steamboat Resort
- Steamboat Winter Carnival
- Hot Air Balloon Rides
Peak Season: Winter Ski Season (December to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Steamboat Springs
Hotels: Find Top Steamboat Springs Hotels
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a winter wonderland with more than just skiing. While renowned for its snow activities, Steamboat offers diverse adventures throughout winter. Enjoy a unique rest day with a horseback ride through the snow-covered landscapes. Take a scenic gondola ride followed by ice skating in town. February in Steamboat is packed with free concerts and exciting events, including the Light Up the Night Celebration, featuring illuminated hot air balloons and a spectacular Fireworks and Torchlight Parade.
The highlight of February is the Steamboat Winter Carnival, an elaborate annual celebration over 110 years strong. The town transforms into a snowy playground with ski jumping, races, ski joring, parades, and much more. After the festivities, unwind and rejuvenate in the nearby Old Town Hot Springs or Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs.
Santa Barbara, California
Activities:
- Santa Barbara Mission Tour
- Stearns Wharf Stroll
- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Visit
Peak Season: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Santa Barbara
Hotels: Explore Top Santa Barbara Hotels
Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera,” is a West Coast treasure that shines year-round. February’s crisp sea air makes it an ideal time to visit. This charming city offers beautiful beaches, scenic trails, luxurious hotels, and endless activities, all with breathtaking views. State Street is the city’s vibrant heart, brimming with restaurants from casual to fine dining. Explore via bike tour or wine walking tour, and then relax at one of Santa Barbara’s many spas. Dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean or catch a performance at the Granada Theatre or UCSB Arts.
Wine lovers can easily reach the Santa Ynez Valley, a region renowned for its wineries. February also brings film enthusiasts for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, an 11-day celebration of cinema. Later in February, the World of Pinot Noir event draws winemakers and wineries globally. Santa Barbara offers countless itineraries in this coastal paradise.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride street view with snow-capped mountains in the background, capturing winter ambianceView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding
- Heli-Skiing Adventures
- Scenic Gondola Rides
- Art Galleries and Cultural Events
- Telluride Comedy Festival
Peak Season: Winter Ski Season (December to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Telluride
Hotels: Discover Top Telluride Hotels
Telluride, Colorado, nestled in the Rockies, is a charming and relaxed alternative to busier mountain destinations. Synonymous with snow, Telluride offers a quintessential winter escape with every imaginable snow activity. This ski town is a cultural hub with a strong sense of community, making it a beloved destination. From ice skating to dog sledding and fat tire biking, winter sports enthusiasts can conquer the mountains in their preferred style.
Recharge in nearby hot springs and savor delicious food after a day in the snow. February is an especially delightful time to visit as the town hosts its annual comedy festival, bringing top comedians for extra laughs and entertainment.
San Antonio, Texas
Activities:
- Explore The Alamo and Spanish Missions
- San Antonio River Walk
- San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
- Performances at the Tobin Center
- Authentic Tex-Mex Cuisine at Mi Tierra
Peak Season: Spring (March to May)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for San Antonio
Hotels: Find Top San Antonio Hotels
San Antonio, Texas, blends history, food, and endless activities, making it a fantastic winter destination. Stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk or take a relaxing hot cocoa cruise. Explore the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or sample local brews at one of the city’s breweries. Thrill-seekers will enjoy adventure parks like SeaWorld (celebrating Mardi Gras in February) and Six Flags. Catch a show at the historic Aztec Theatre or the Majestic Theatre. Mardi Gras festivities enliven the Riverwalk throughout February, with the main parade on February 10th.
Indulge in spa escapes and premium resorts or enjoy educational fun at the DoSeum Kids Museum. San Antonio boasts numerous art museums and cultural institutions highlighting indigenous history and culture. Whether you prefer bike tours, ghost tours, or wine excursions, San Antonio offers something for every taste.
Jackson, Wyoming
Jackson, Wyoming, winter landscape featuring snow-covered mountains and cityscapeView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
- Guided Snowshoeing Tours in Grand Teton National Park
- Wildlife Viewing
Peak Season: Summer Months (June to August)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Jackson
Hotels: Discover Top Jackson Hotels
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is synonymous with winter adventure for good reason. Boasting some of the best powder in the West, skiers and snowboarders flock to these slopes nestled in the majestic Grand Teton Mountains. The breathtaking snowy peaks are best viewed from the aerial tram, soaring over 4,000 feet above ground. Nearby, the National Elk Refuge hosts hundreds of elk during the winter months, offering sleigh rides for a closer look. Relax and warm up at Astoria Hot Springs.
February in Jackson Hole marks the thrilling Kings and Queens of Corbets freestyle competition. Snow enthusiasts can hone their skills at numerous snow sport camps. It’s also an ideal time for serene wildlife viewing via snowmobile or snowshoe tours.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Activities:
- Mardi Gras Celebrations
- French Film Festival
- Tet Fest (Vietnamese New Year)
- Live Music and Culinary Scene
- Historical and Ghost Tours
Peak Season: Late Fall to Early Spring (October to April)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for New Orleans
Hotels: Explore Top New Orleans Hotels
February in New Orleans, Louisiana, means Carnival season, and Mardi Gras is the ultimate experience. Parades, parties, and Krewes transform the city into a vibrant spectacle of music, art, and dance. February also welcomes Tet Fest, celebrating the Vietnamese New Year, and the New Orleans French Film Festival, highlighting the city’s rich French heritage.
Beyond festivals, New Orleans offers endless engaging activities. Explore museums, take a riverboat cruise, delve into history and culinary tours, and experience the city’s legendary live music scene. From ghost tours to culinary adventures and scenic neighborhood strolls, New Orleans has something to captivate every traveler.
Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky, Montana, sign amidst a snowy landscape, inviting winter adventuresView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Big Sky Resort
- Yellowstone National Park Exploration
- Dog Sledding
- Snowshoeing and Nordic Skiing
Peak Season: Winter/Peak Ski Season (December to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Big Sky
Hotels: Explore Top Big Sky Hotels
Big Sky, Montana, is a true paradise for snow lovers. February offers prime slope conditions, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Even for non-skiers, Big Sky provides plenty of fresh-air adventures, from Nordic skiing and snowmobiling to scenic horseback rides and coach tours.
On the mountain, enjoy weekly events like Peakside Pours, wine dinners, live music, and avalanche dog meet-and-greets. In town, discover dining, shopping, spas, and live music at the Wilson Hotel. February also brings skijoring competitions to town. Whether you seek relaxation or adrenaline-pumping snow sports, Big Sky is the perfect February destination.
Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona
Activities:
- WM Phoenix Open Golf Tournament
- Camelback Mountain Hiking
- Museum Hopping
- Festivals and Cultural Events
Peak Season: Late Fall to Early Spring (November to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Phoenix/Scottsdale
Hotels: Find Top Phoenix/Scottsdale Hotels
The Phoenix-Scottsdale area in Arizona is another baseball spring training hotspot, hosting teams like the Diamondbacks and Dodgers. However, this desert oasis offers much more than baseball in February. Welcoming weather makes it perfect for golf, spa retreats, winter hikes, and exploring the vibrant culinary scene. February is also peak season for cultural events.
Experience the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival, Scottsdale Western Week, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, the Arizona Indian Festival, and the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest. Step back in time at the Arizona Renaissance Festival or witness world-class golf at the WM Phoenix Open. From relaxation to adventure, Phoenix-Scottsdale has something for everyone. Explore the Scottsdale Performing Arts Center, indulge in food tours, and find family fun at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Wonderspaces Arizona.
Florence, Oregon
Florence, Oregon, bridge and seal statue under an overcast sky, showcasing coastal charmView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Heceta Head Lighthouse Exploration
- Sea Lion Caves Tour
- Darlingtonia State Natural Site
- Florence Riverwalk Stroll
Peak Season: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Florence
Hotels: Discover Top Florence Hotels
Florence, Oregon, is a tranquil coastal town nestled along the Sislaw River, perfect for a peaceful escape. Sweeping dunes and misty air create captivating scenery and a sense of serenity. Explore the tide pools along the sandy beaches and visit the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, perched dramatically on rocky cliffs with scenic trails. A unique attraction is the Sea Lion Caves, a protected wildlife area accessible by elevator.
February in Florence is also home to the Wine, Chowder, and Glass Float Trail, celebrating local wines, delicious chowders, and handcrafted glass floats hidden throughout the town, adding a touch of whimsy to your visit.
Killington, Vermont
Activities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Killington Resort
- Scenic Gondola Rides to Killington Peak
- Snowmobiling Adventures
- Relaxing Spa Experiences
Peak Season: Winter Months (December to March)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Killington
Hotels: Explore Top Killington Hotels
For East Coast skiers and snowboarders, Killington, Vermont, offers killer slopes and entertainment both on and off the mountain. Start with a scenic gondola ride for panoramic views, then hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing. Relax after a day on the mountain at the Grand Spa or unwind at the Wobbly Barn, renowned for both its dining and entertainment.
February in Killington features the Subaru Winterfest, a weekend of guaranteed fun. Kids can participate in the Mini Shred Madness competition. Weekend visitors might even spot X-Games legends or Olympic gold medalists sharing slope secrets. Killington’s Ramshead base lodge provides childcare for children from 12 weeks to 12 years, ensuring a great time for the whole family, on and off the slopes.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park river scene with lush greenery, showcasing natural beautyView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Wildlife Watching and Photography
- Anhinga Trail Boardwalk
- Airboat Tours
- Cycling and Hiking
- Birdwatching Paradise
- Ranger-Guided Programs and History
Peak Season: Dry Season (Late Fall to Early Spring)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Everglades National Park
Hotels: Explore Hotels near Everglades National Park
Escape the humidity of Southern Florida and venture into the unique marshlands of Everglades National Park in February. This treasured park, spanning 1.5 million acres, teems with diverse plant and animal life, including American crocodiles and endangered manatees. Glide through the waterways on an airboat tour, bike along scenic trails, or join a ranger-guided tour. The Everglades are ideal for fishing, hiking, and boating.
After outdoor adventures, relax on park beaches or camp under the stars. Visitor centers offer daily talks and educational activities. Day trips to the Everglades are easily accessible from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Naples. Lodging and restaurants nearby make it convenient to experience Florida’s natural wonder in comfort. Remember to check the park entrances to plan your stay and access the closest amenities.
Sonoma Valley, California
Activities:
- Wine Tasting Tours
- Scenic Drives through Vineyards
- Sonoma International Film Festival
- Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences
Peak Season: Wine Harvest Season (Late Summer to Fall)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Sonoma Valley
Hotels: Find Top Sonoma Valley Hotels
Sonoma Valley, California, a wine lover’s dream, offers wintertime charm. February, the “off-season,” is ideal for securing deals on inns and hotels and reservations at top restaurants. Restaurant week mid-month is a culinary highlight. February visitors are treated to the sight of vibrant mustard fields in full bloom.
As winter recedes from the mountains, streams swell with cascading waterfalls, perfect for scenic hikes. Family-friendly festivals like the Lake Sonoma Steelhead Festival and the Cloverdale Citrus Fair offer entertainment and delicious treats.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska, evening cityscape with snow-covered streets and houses, capturing winter nightView Location on Google Maps
Activities:
- Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) Viewing
- Dog Sledding Adventures
- Ice Fishing Excursions
- Ice Museum Exploration
- Relaxation at Chena Hot Springs
Peak Season: Summer (June to August)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Fairbanks
Hotels: Find Top Fairbanks Hotels
Venture close to the Arctic Circle and witness the magical Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska. This Alaskan town is a winter wonderland, especially in February. The World Ice Art Championships in February showcase over 80 incredible ice sculptures created by artists worldwide. The Ice Art Classic features slides and ice structures for added fun.
The Northern Lights are a major draw, visible from August to April, making February an ideal viewing month. Take a tour to Denali National Park to see North America’s tallest peak. Try mountaineering or watch a dog sled race. Get up close with reindeer on a unique reindeer walk. Fairbanks also serves as a gateway for Arctic excursions. After exploring the snowy landscapes, warm up at Chena Hot Springs resort or delve into history at the Museum of the North. Fairbanks offers cozy bed and breakfasts, hotels, and cabins for a perfect winter retreat.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Activities:
- Scenic Drives in the Ouachita Mountains
- Bathhouse Row Historical District
- Garvan Woodland Gardens
- Local Arts and Culinary Scene
Peak Season: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather: 10 Day Weather Forecast for Hot Springs
Hotels: Explore Top Hot Springs Hotels
Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers a surprising blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Bathhouse Row, featuring eight historic buildings constructed over natural hot springs, showcases unique architecture spanning over a century. Several bathhouses are still operational. Immerse yourself in thermal waters at the Buckstaff Bathhouse or Hotel Hale, which brings the hot springs experience directly to your room. Explore history at the Fordyce Bathhouse and Museum.
Beyond the bathhouses, Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles of hiking trails, lakes for boating and fishing, and stunning views. Follow the Hot Springs Baseball Trail to discover the town’s baseball legacy. Try your luck at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Explore the Gangster Museum of America, including Capone’s favorite haunt, The Ohio Club. Hot Springs also offers art galleries, wineries, markets, and numerous events for a vibrant February getaway.
