Scarcely is the crispness of winter felt than most of us begin to picture ourselves on cuddly hideaways or embarking on snow-flanked escapades. The United States has diverse places ideal for those who want to experience winters’ allure. These include quaint mountain communities and sunlight-infused get-a-ways; here are some of the best winter getaways in the United States.
The Best Winter Getaways in the United States
1. Mexico City, Mexico
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures ranging from 50-75°F (10-24°C), ideal for exploring the city.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Consider hostels like Hostel Mundo Joven ($30-40 per night) or budget hotels like Hotel Principal ($40-60 per night).
- Mid-Range: Boutique hotels such as Hotel Catedral or Stanza Hotel offer a blend of comfort and affordability ($60-100 per night).
Highlights:
- Historic Center: Visit the Zócalo, one of the largest public squares in the world, and the nearby Metropolitan Cathedral.
- Museums: The National Museum of Anthropology has an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, while the Frida Kahlo Museum offers insight into the life of the iconic artist.
- Parks: Enjoy Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, featuring museums, a zoo, and botanical gardens.
Dining:
- Street Food: Try tacos al pastor, tamales, and quesadillas from vendors. Meals typically cost $2-$5.
- Local Eats: Affordable restaurants like El Cardenal and La Casa de Toño offer hearty meals for $10-$15.
Transport:
- Metro: Mexico City’s metro system is efficient and affordable ($0.25 per ride).
- Rideshare: Services like Uber are widely available and cost-effective.
2. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Climate:
Warm and pleasant with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C), perfect for beach activities.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like The Dreamcatcher ($60-80 per night) and budget hotels such as Hotel Plaza De Armas ($70-90 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like The Olive Boutique Hotel or La Concha Resort for a blend of luxury and affordability ($100-150 per night).
Highlights:
- Old San Juan: Wander through cobblestone streets, visit historic forts like El Morro and San Cristóbal, and explore colorful colonial architecture.
- Beaches: Relax on Isla Verde Beach or Condado Beach, known for their golden sands and clear waters.
- Nightlife: Enjoy vibrant nightlife with salsa and reggaeton at places like La Placita de Santurce.
Dining:
- Local Cuisine: Eat at local spots like La Mallorquina or La Fonda del Jibarito, where meals are generally $10-$20.
- Street Food: Try local favorites like alcapurrias (fried plantain fritters) and empanadillas from street vendors.
Transport:
- Public Transit: Limited options; taxis and rideshare services are commonly used.
- Car Rental: Renting a car can be convenient for exploring the island’s other attractions.
3. Montreal, Canada
Climate:
Cold winter temperatures ranging from 10-30°F (-12 to -1°C), with snow typical during this season.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like M Montreal ($50-70 per night) and budget hotels like Hotel Universel ($80-100 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels such as Hotel Le Dauphin or Hotel Bonaventure Montreal for a comfortable stay ($100-150 per night).
Highlights:
- Festivals: Participate in winter festivals such as Igloofest (outdoor music festival) and Montreal en Lumière (light and arts festival).
- Historic Sites: Explore Old Montreal with landmarks like Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port.
- Outdoor Activities: Ice skate at Parc La Fontaine or visit the Montreal Science Centre.
Dining:
- Affordable Options: Enjoy local fare at places like La Banquise for poutine or Boustan for Lebanese street food ($10-$20).
- Cafés and Bistros: Try local favorites like Schwartz’s Deli for smoked meat sandwiches.
Transport:
- Public Transit: The metro system is efficient and covers major attractions ($3.50 per ride).
- Walking: Many attractions are walkable, especially in the city’s compact downtown area.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures from 40-65°F (4-18°C), making it comfortable for sightseeing.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like HI New Orleans ($50-70 per night) and budget hotels such as La Quinta Inn ($60-80 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like the Hampton Inn or the Royal Sonesta for a mix of comfort and affordability ($90-130 per night).
Highlights:
- French Quarter: Explore Bourbon Street’s lively bars and the historic architecture of Jackson Square.
- Music: Visit clubs like Preservation Hall for live jazz music and experience the vibrant music scene.
- Cuisine: Try classic Creole dishes and seafood at local favorites like Commander’s Palace and Café du Monde.
Dining:
- Affordable Eats: Grab beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde, or enjoy po’boys and gumbo from local eateries ($10-$20).
Transport:
- Streetcars: Iconic and affordable, with routes covering many of the city’s key attractions ($1.25 per ride).
- Walking: The French Quarter and nearby areas are walkable.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Climate:
Winter temperatures between 30-50°F (-1 to 10°C) with occasional snowfall.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like The Stay at Asheville ($50-70 per night) and budget hotels such as Red Roof Inn ($60-80 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like The Haywood Park Hotel or Element by Westin for comfortable stays ($90-130 per night).
Highlights:
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking trails, such as those in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Arts Scene: Visit local art galleries and craft breweries, which Asheville is famous for.
- Historic Sites: Tour the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned house.
Dining:
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy meals at places like Tupelo Honey for Southern comfort food or French Broad Chocolate Lounge for desserts ($10-$20).
Transport:
- Public Transit: Limited, so renting a car is often the best option for exploring the surrounding area.
- Walking: Downtown Asheville is walkable with many attractions close together.
6. Lisbon, Portugal
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures between 45-60°F (7-16°C), making it a pleasant destination for exploring.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like Lisbon Poets Hostel ($50-70 per night) and budget hotels such as Hotel Expo Astoria ($60-80 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like Hotel Lisboa Plaza or the Hotel Mundial for a blend of comfort and affordability ($80-120 per night).
Highlights:
- Historic Sites: Visit Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Lisbon Cathedral.
- Neighborhoods: Explore the Alfama district’s narrow streets and the trendy Bairro Alto for nightlife.
- Trams: Ride the historic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of Lisbon’s neighborhoods.
Dining:
- Affordable Eats: Enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at local restaurants and bakeries ($10-$15 per meal).
Transport:
- Public Transit: Lisbon’s trams, buses, and metro are efficient and affordable ($1.50 per ride).
- Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance, especially in central Lisbon.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Climate:
Cold winter temperatures from 20-40°F (-6 to 4°C) with potential for snow.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like Maverick City Lodge ($40-60 per night) and budget hotels such as Hotel Ibis Budapest ($50-70 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like Hotel Parlament or The Three Corners Hotel Art for comfort and affordability ($70-100 per night).
Highlights:
- Thermal Baths: Relax in famous baths like Széchenyi and Gellért.
- Historic Sites: Visit Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Parliament Building.
- Ruin Bars: Explore unique bars set in abandoned buildings in the Jewish Quarter.
Dining:
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy hearty Hungarian dishes such as goulash and chimney cakes at local eateries ($10-$20).
Transport:
- Public Transit: Efficient metro and bus system with single tickets costing around $1.20.
- Walking: Many attractions are located in central areas that are walkable.
8. Mexico Beach, Florida
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C), ideal for beach relaxation.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Motels and rental properties such as the Emerald Coast Inn ($90-120 per night) and local vacation rentals.
- Mid-Range: Consider beachfront hotels like the Best Western Plus ($120-150 per night).
Highlights:
- Beaches: Enjoy the tranquil, less crowded beaches compared to more tourist-heavy spots.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in fishing, kayaking, or exploring nearby state parks.
Dining:
- Affordable Eats: Try local seafood at casual spots like the Beach Pizza and Sub Shop ($10-$15 per meal).
Transport:
- Car Rental: Recommended for getting around and exploring the region.
- Walking: Many attractions and beaches are easily accessible by foot.
9. Savannah, Georgia
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures from 40-65°F (4-18°C), perfect for exploring the city’s historic charm.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Inns and motels like the Thunderbird Inn ($70-90 per night) and budget hotels such as Quality Inn ($80-100 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider charming bed and breakfasts or hotels like The Marshall House ($100-150 per night).
Highlights:
- Historic District: Explore beautiful squares, historic homes, and the scenic River Street.
- Cultural Sites: Visit the Savannah History Museum and the Telfair Museums.
- Parks: Stroll through Forsyth Park with its iconic fountain.
Dining:
- Affordable Meals: Enjoy Southern comfort food at local favorites like Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and The Olde Pink House ($10-$20).
Transport:
- Walking: The historic district is very walkable.
- Public Transit: Limited but taxis and rideshare services are readily available.
10. Nashville, Tennessee
Climate:
Mild winter temperatures between 30-50°F (-1 to 10°C), with occasional cold snaps.Accommodation:
- Budget Options: Hostels like Nashville Downtown Hostel ($60-80 per night) and budget hotels such as Days Inn ($70-90 per night).
- Mid-Range: Consider hotels like the Drury Plaza Hotel or the Hutton Hotel for a balance of comfort and cost ($100-150 per night).
Highlights:
- Music Scene: Visit the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and explore live music venues on Broadway.
- Historic Sites: Check out the Parthenon replica and the Andrew Jackson Hermitage.
- Cuisine: Enjoy Nashville hot chicken and barbecue at places like Hattie B’s and Peg Leg Porker.
Dining:
- Affordable Eats: Meals at local diners and barbecue joints typically cost $10-$20.
Transport:
- Public Transit: Limited; rideshare services and rental cars are often more practical.
- Walking: Downtown Nashville and the Broadway area are walkable.
Conclusion
Each of these destinations offers a unique winter experience while staying budget-friendly. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor activities, or just a relaxing break, these locations provide a variety of affordable options to enjoy a memorable winter getaway.
