7 best places to visit in February in the US

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural excursion to enliven the seasonal doldrums, or a reprieve from the frosty conditions of winter, there are plenty of reasons to travel in February. It’s the off season in many U.S. destinations, which means lower prices and fewer crowds—plus, hotels around the country offer stellar Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day Weekend packages. There are also several top-notch festivals, if that’s your thing. From the majestic red rocks in Utah and the lush landscape of Hawaii to the healing vortexes in Arizona, here are some of the best places in the United States to visit in February.

Looking to head overseas? Visit our guide to the best places to visit in February around the world.

The elevated areas around Santa Fe can get up to 300 inches of snow around this time of year, making it the perfect place to try your hand at winter sports, from skiing to snowshoeing in desert canyons. Explore the colorful, historic Pueblo-style architecture in the creative downtown area, soak in the art at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and Museum of International Folk Art, or take a food tour to experience New Mexico’s unique culinary traditions. Stay at Las Palomas, a top-rated, award-winning hotel near the historic Santa Fe Plaza, or the Inn on the Alameda, which sits near the Canyon Road art galleries. Despite the mid-40s temps, sunshine is nearly sure-bet in February; after all, Santa Fe is sunny 325 days a year.

With highs in the mid-60s, San Diego is certainly cooler in February, but you can still slip on a wetsuit and catch some of the best waves in North America. The winter is prime-time for whale watching in San Diego; between December and April, more than 20,000 gray whales leave the warm waters of Baja California and migrate north. You can catch a glimpse of them on a whale-watching cruise—or even right from the beach. Other San Diego happenings this month include Mardi Gras celebrations in the Gaslamp Quarter. Bonus: San Diego hotel rates tend to be lower than usual around this time.

February in Sedona brings cool evening temperatures—great for snuggling up under the dazzling night sky—and mid-60s weather during the day, making it a perfect time to hike amid the awe-inspiring red-rock formations. The city has become a world-class destination for lavish spas, holistic treatments, and luxury resorts such as the Travelers’ Choice Award–winning Enchantment Resort. It’s also known for its vortexes, powerful energetic centers that you can experience during meditative hikes through top trails like the Broken Arrow Trail, Devil’s Bridge Trail, Boynton Canyon Trail, and Cathedral Rock. If you prefer to sightsee by car, the Red Rock Scenic Byway offers incredible views of the landscape; be sure to stop at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village along the way—it’s a 1970s landmark.

Louisiana in February means Mardi Gras festivities and temperatures mild enough for sweater weather—at night, at least. (Because it’s tied to the lunar calendar and held 47 days before Easter, there’s no set date for Mardi Gras each year; however, in 2023 and 2024, it’s in February.) In the French Quarter, indulge in Creole food, beignets, and crawfish, and dress up in your most extravagant digs for the parades. If you’re not there for the height of the annual celebrations on Fat Tuesday, you can still find festivities several weeks leading up to it (check out the official calendar for parade options throughout the month). Whatever dates you go, our vote is to stay at the top-rated Maison de la Luz near Lafayette Square, catch a historic walking tour in the Garden District, and try a five-course tasting menu of Creole and Cajun cuisine at Restaurant August.

With some of the best national parks in the country, Moab is an increasingly popular destination for outdoor adventurers and hiking enthusiasts. Trails are open all year long, but there are fewer crowds in the off season, making winter an ideal time to explore. A visit to Arches National Park is a must; with more than 2,000 natural stone arches and stunning red-rock formations, it’s particularly scenic when it snows. But be prepared for slippery conditions and dress accordingly for the weather, which can range between 20 and 50 degrees in winter. Another favorite is Canyonlands National Park with its gorgeous panoramic views, as well as Dead Horse Point State Park, which sits 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. While you’re in town, stay at the ultra-scenic Castle Valley Inn, a Travelers’ Choice Award–winning bed and breakfast just outside of Moab, or Moab Springs Ranch, a top-rated resort nestled beneath red cliffs, which has natural springs on the property.

Another first-rate February retreat for outdoor thrill-seekers? Big Sky, MT. An hour away from Bozeman, MT, skiers will hardly want to leave the grounds of Big Sky Resort—celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023—with activities running the gamut from downhill and Nordic skiing to headlamp night skiing and sno-go biking. (FYI: If you can’t swing a trip this year, the resort will welcome a new tram for 2023/2024 ski season with a two stage one-of-a-kind gondola; Passengers can take it from the base to a mid-mountain food and beverage complex before continuing to the top of Lone Mountain at 11,166-feet, with an all-glass viewing platform.) For a more upscale alpine jaunt (or perhaps a splurge-worthy Valentine’s Day getaway) check into Montage Big Sky, which our community members refer to as “Paradise in the Mountains.” Before you leave this tiny town (Pop. 3,054), be sure to dine at the resort’s Italian-inspired Cortina restaurant, which boasts fresh, handmade pasta and an open heart wood-fire oven.

When NYC dwellers get stir-crazy come winter, they have a secret for getting out of town without a lengthy trip: Westchester County. There, tourists from near and far can enjoy both a fix of arts and culture and outdoor fun. The Hudson River Museum in Yonkers is a must; “The Bierstadt Brothers: Painting and Photography” and “Matrix: Prints by Women Artists,1960-1990” are two fine exhibits on display now. Stroll the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy or check out bald eagles and exhibits at the Teatown Hudson River EagleFest in Croton-on-Hudson on February 4, 2023. In honor of Black History Month, February is also a timely moment to explore the African American History Trail which has landmarks in Rye, Tarrytown, Yonkers, and more. Make your home away from home the Tarrytown House Estate, with bucolic, well-maintained grounds and an award-winning restaurant on-site, Goosefeather.