The glitter from New Year‘s has settled, the holiday rush is over, and the deep quiet of winter has set in. For many, this brings on the “January blues,” a longing for a change of scenery. In truth, January is one of the best months to explore the United States. The crowds are thinner, the deals are often better, and the country offers a stunning menu of polar-opposite experiences.

This guide is designed to help you decide where to go in January, presenting a comprehensive list of 25 destinations where you can genuinely maximize your winter escape, from the vibrant energy of Southern Florida to the majestic quiet of the Rocky Mountains.

25 Best Places to Visit in January USA

Here are 25 destinations in the U.S. that shine in January. No matter what climate you prefer, you can find a perfect choice.

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1. Key West, Florida

Key West, this quirky, charming island at the very end of the line has a unique “Conch Republic” vibe that feels a world away from the mainland. It’s laid-back, creative, and unapologetically fun. January is the absolute sweet spot. The humidity of summer is a distant memory, and the peak hurricane season is long gone, leaving you with perfect, breezy days. It’s easily one of the best January vacations for a total thaw-out.

It’s not just warm. The streets are vibrant, the sunsets at Mallory Square are a nightly celebration, and the “end-of-the-road” atmosphere is a perfect antidote to the winter blues. You can rent a bike and live in flip-flops for a week.

Things to do:

• Watch the sunset celebration at Mallory Square
• Tour the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (and see the six-toed cats)
• Take a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy
• Explore the bars and shops of Duval Street
• Go snorkeling or kayaking in the clear turquoise water

Weather: Expect blissful, sunny days. Highs average 76°F (24°C), with comfortable lows around 65°F (18°C).

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2. Oahu, Hawaii

Want a true tropical escape? Oahu is the answer. Known as “The Gathering Place,” it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant city life. You can spend the morning hiking a volcanic crater and the afternoon browsing high-end shops in Honolulu. January is prime time for two major reasons: the whale watching season is in full swing, and the legendary North Shore big-wave surfing competitions are at their peak.

This is a trip of a lifetime, and January’s flawless weather makes it all the more spectacular. While Honolulu and Waikiki Beach offer the iconic resort experience, don’t be afraid to rent a car and explore the entire island, from the lush windward coast to the legendary surf spots.

Things to do:

• Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
• Hike Diamond Head for panoramic views of Waikiki
• Relax on the world-famous Waikiki Beach
• Experience a traditional Luau

Weather: Highs average a perfect 80°F (27°C) with lows around 66°F (19°C).

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3. Park City, Utah

Alright, let’s flip the script. Maybe you want to embrace winter, not escape it. If so, Park City is your spot. Home to two world-class resorts, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley, it boasts “The Greatest Snow on Earth” and a ski town vibe that’s second to none. The historic Main Street, once a silver mining boomtown, is now lined with upscale restaurants, cozy bars, and chic boutiques.

January is peak season for a reason: the powder is deep, light, and plentiful. It’s also famously home to the Sundance Film Festival, which typically takes over the town for the last half of the month. If you love skiing and film, it’s a bucket-list trip. If you just want to ski, aim for early January to avoid the festival crowds.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain (the largest ski resort in the US) or the luxurious Deer Valley Resort
• Explore the boutiques and restaurants on historic Main Street
• Visit the Utah Olympic Park (and even ride a bobsled)
• Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on endless trails

Weather: Brace yourself for a true winter wonderland. Highs average 31°F (-0.5°C), with lows dipping to 15°F (-9°C).

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4. New Orleans, Louisiana

There’s a special kind of magic in New Orleans in January. The oppressive humidity of summer is gone, leaving behind crisp, pleasant air perfect for exploring. The city is in a celebratory mood, shaking off the holiday slumber and gearing up for its main event: Mardi Gras. While the biggest parades are in February, January is when the season officially kicks off with the Joan of Arc parade, and the city fills with a palpable, exciting buzz.

This is the perfect place to go in January for travelers who want culture, history, and arguably the best food scene in the country. You can explore the French Quarter without the massive crowds, listen to live jazz in cozy clubs, and eat your way through the city. It’s also one of the cheapest warm vacation options on this list, offering incredible value.

Things to do:

• Wander through the historic French Quarter
• Listen to live music on Frenchmen Street
• Take a streetcar ride to the Garden District
• Eat everything: beignets at Café du Monde, po’boys, and jambalaya

Weather: It’s jacket weather, but pleasant. Highs are typically in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C), with lows in the mid-40s°F (7°C).

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5. Miami, Florida

If your vision of January involves art deco, trendy restaurants, and beautiful beaches, Miami is it. This is the capital of “cool” in the US, and January is its high season. The weather is flawless – warm, sunny, and dry. It’s the perfect backdrop for exploring the vibrant street art of Wynwood, the stylish boutiques of the Design District, and, of course, the iconic sands of South Beach.

Unlike Key West’s laid-back vibe, Miami is all about energy. It’s a bustling, international city that just happens to be on a beach. In January, the city buzzes with events like the South Beach Jazz Festival and Art Deco Weekend, making it one of the best places to visit in January for a high-energy, sun-filled city break.

Things to do:

• People-watch and admire the architecture on Ocean Drive in South Beach
• Explore the incredible murals at Wynwood Walls
• Visit the lush Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Experience the vibrant culture of Little Havana, and enjoy the world-class nightlife

Weather: It’s beach weather. Expect highs around 76°F (24°C) and lows near 60°F (15°C).

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6. Aspen, Colorado

For those who want to see and be seen in the snow, Aspen is the pinnacle. It’s synonymous with luxury, world-class skiing, and a legendary après-ski scene. But it’s not just for pros or the ultra-wealthy; the town itself is a beautiful, historic gem, and the four surrounding mountains (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass) offer terrain for every single skill level.

January is prime time. The snow is deep, and the town is buzzing. It’s also when the X Games typically come to Buttermilk, offering a thrilling spectacle of the world’s best action sports athletes. It’s an unforgettable winter experience, combining rugged Rocky Mountain beauty with sophisticated fun.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard one of the “Power of Four” mountains
• Take the gondola up Aspen Mountain for lunch with a view
• Explore the high-end shops and art galleries in town
• Indulge in the famous après-ski scene

Weather: It’s cold and snowy, just as it should be. Highs average 36°F (2°C), with lows dropping to a chilly 10°F (-12°C).

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7. San Diego, California

For a “warm-ish” escape without the humidity of Florida, San Diego is a dream. The vibe here is relaxed, the sun is almost always shining, and the lifestyle revolves around being outdoors. January is technically “winter,” but that just means you might need a light jacket at night. The days are sunny, clear, and perfect for hiking, exploring, and beach-combing.

It’s one of the best destinations in January for families and anyone looking for a low-stress, easy-to-enjoy getaway. The summer crowds are gone, so you can explore top attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park with ease. Plus, January is the start of the gray whale migration, offering incredible whale-watching opportunities.

Things to do:

• Explore the museums and stunning Spanish architecture of Balboa Park
• Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo
• See the seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove
• Go whale watching

Weather: It’s famously pleasant. Highs are consistently around 65°F (18°C), with lows in the high 40s°F (9°C).

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8. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

There are few sights more breathtaking than Lake Tahoe in winter. The massive, crystal-clear blue lake, surrounded by snow-covered Sierra Nevada mountains, is a postcard come to life. January means the ski resorts are in full swing, offering everything from the lively, party-like atmosphere of Heavenly to the more rugged, adventurous terrain at Palisades Tahoe.

You get the best of both worlds here. The California side is more rustic and relaxed, while the Nevada side offers the glitz of casinos and 24-hour entertainment. You can spend your day on the slopes enjoying panoramic lake views and your night trying your luck at the tables.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard with incredible lake views at resorts like Heavenly or Palisades Tahoe
• Try your luck at the casinos in South Lake Tahoe (Nevada side)
• Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
• Drive the 72-mile loop around the lake for stunning photos

Weather: Expect cold, snowy mountain weather. Highs are around 40°F (4°C) near the lake, with lows in the 20s°F (-4°C).

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9. Charleston, South Carolina

Dripping with Southern charm, cobblestone streets, and a world-renowned food scene, Charleston is a city that captivates. In summer, it can be overwhelmingly hot and humid. In January? It’s perfect. The mild, cool weather is ideal for walking and exploring the city’s “South of Broad” historic homes, waterfront parks, and hidden alleyways.

This is a trip for history buffs and foodies. January is considered the off-season, which means you’ll find fewer crowds and better prices on hotels. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get reservations at restaurants that are normally booked months in advance. It’s a sophisticated, relaxing, and utterly charming place to go in January.

Things to do:

• Stroll along The Battery and Rainbow Row
• Explore the historic Charleston City Market
• Take a carriage ride through the historic district
• Tour a nearby plantation like Middleton Place
• Indulge in the incredible culinary scene (think shrimp and grits, and oysters)

Weather: Mild and pleasant. Highs are typically in the 50s or low 60s°F (10-15°C), with cool evenings.

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10. Death Valley, California

The hottest place on Earth… in January? Yes, exactly. The brutal, life-threatening heat of summer gives way to what can only be described as perfect weather. Death Valley in winter is a place of profound beauty, stark landscapes, and stunning clarity. The sun is warm, the air is clear, and the crowds are minimal, allowing you to explore this vast park in comfort.

This is one of the best January destinations for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking solitude and awe-inspiring nature. You can hike on salt flats below sea level, explore golden canyons, and watch the sunset paint the mountains in unbelievable colors. Just be sure to bring layers, as the temperature drops fast when the sun goes down.

Things to do:

• Walk on the salt flats at Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America)
• Watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point
• Explore the colorful landscape of Artist’s Palette
• Hike through Golden Canyon

Weather: It’s idyllic. Daytime highs average 67°F (19°C), but lows drop to 40°F (4°C), so pack a warm jacket.

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11. Scottsdale, Arizona

If your idea of a perfect January day involves golf, hiking, and a spa treatment, all under a bright blue sky, Scottsdale is your answer. This chic desert oasis just outside Phoenix is a haven for “soft adventure.” The Sonoran Desert is lush and green this time of year (by desert standards!), and the temperatures are perfect for outdoor activity.

It’s one of the best places to go in January to recharge your batteries. The area is packed with luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and a fantastic dining scene. You can spend your mornings hiking Camelback Mountain and your afternoons lounging by a heated pool. It’s an easy and rejuvenating warm-weather getaway.

Things to do:

• Hike Camelback Mountain or the McDowell Sonoran Preserve
• Explore the art galleries and shops in Old Town Scottsdale
• Play a round of golf at one of the dozens of championship courses
• Visit Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home

Weather: Desert warmth. Highs are consistently near 70°F (21°C), with cool, crisp nights.

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12. New York City, New York

Yes, it’s cold. But visiting NYC in January is a pro-traveler move. The Christmas crowds are gone, the lights are (often) still up in early January, and the city feels like it belongs to the locals again. The reward for braving the cold? Cheaper hotel prices, easier-to-get dinner reservations, and no lines at major attractions.

This is your chance to see a different side of the city. You can go ice skating at Rockefeller Center without the three-hour wait, get same-day Broadway tickets, and have museums like The Met practically to yourself. Just pack a very warm coat, good boots, and a hat and gloves.

Things to do:

• Go ice skating at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park
• Explore the (empty) museums like The Met and MoMA
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge on a crisp, clear day
• Cozy up in historic bars in the West Village

Weather: Highs average 39°F (4°C) and lows are around 26°F (-3°C). Expect snow, but also brilliant, sunny days.

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13. Big Bend National Park, Texas

For a true off-the-grid adventure, nothing beats Big Bend in January. This massive, remote park on the Texas-Mexico border is a land of towering canyons, vast deserts, and rugged mountains. In summer, it’s dangerously hot. In winter, the weather is ideal for hiking. January offers cool, sunny days and starry, starry nights.

This is a trip for adventurers and road-trippers. It’s not easy to get to, but that’s the point. You can hike the Chisos Mountains (the only mountain range entirely contained within a single US National Park), kayak the Rio Grande through Santa Elena Canyon, and soak in hot springs right on the river’s edge.

Things to do:

• Hike the Lost Mine Trail or the Windows Trail in the Chisos Basin
• Kayak through the stunning Santa Elena Canyon
• Drive the scenic Ross Maxwell Drive
• Soak in the Hot Springs Historic District right by the Rio Grande

Weather: Perfect for hiking. Highs are around 61°F (16°C), but it gets very cold at night and at higher elevations, with lows near 35°F (2°C).

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14. Maui, Hawaii

If Oahu is the “Gathering Place,” Maui is the “Valley Isle.” It’s often seen as more relaxed and romantic, with a focus on natural beauty. Like Oahu, January is a spectacular time to visit. The weather is perfect, and it’s the absolute peak of the humpback whale watching season. The ‘Au’au Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai is one of the best places in the world to see these gentle giants.

Beyond the whales, you have the legendary Road to Hana, the otherworldly summit of Haleakalā, and some of the best beaches in January.

Things to do:

• Go on a whale watching tour
• Drive the scenic (and winding) Road to Hana
• Watch the sunrise from the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakalā National Park
• Snorkel at Molokini or Kaanapali Beach

Weather: Heavenly. Highs in the mid-70s°F (around 24-25°C) to low 80s, with refreshing trade winds.

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15. Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas in January is a smart bet. The desert chill means you won’t be lounging by the pool (unless it’s heated), but the weather is perfect for exploring the Strip without breaking a sweat. The massive New Year’s crowds are gone, and the city is relatively quiet (by Vegas standards), which means you can find great deals on hotels and shows.

This is also a great time to explore the incredible natural wonders just outside the city, which are often too hot to visit in summer. You can take a day trip to Red Rock Canyon for a stunning hike or even visit the nearby Valley of Fire State Park. It’s a different kind of Vegas trip, and one of the best places to go in January for entertainment.

Things to do:

• Walk the Strip and see the Fountains of Bellagio
• See a world-class show (Cirque du Soleil, a magic show, or a music residency)
• Explore the Fremont Street Experience
• Take a day trip to hike at Red Rock Canyon

Weather: Highs average 58°F (14°C) and lows are around 39°F (4°C). Pack a jacket, especially for the evenings.

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16. Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is the capital of desert modernism. This stylish oasis was the playground for Old Hollywood, and that chic, mid-century-modern vibe is still everywhere. January is the absolute best time to be here. The days are sunny and warm, the nights are cool and crisp, and the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains are often capped with snow, creating a stunning visual contrast.

This is one of the best warm places for a trip that is equal parts relaxation and style. You can lounge by a heated pool, play golf, browse vintage furniture shops, and hike in the beautiful Indian Canyons. It’s effortlessly cool and reliably sunny.

Things to do:

• Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the (much colder) mountain peak
• Hike in the Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon
• Tour the mid-century modern architecture
• Relax by a stylish, heated pool

Weather: Warm and sunny. Highs are consistently around 71°F (22°C), with lows in the mid-40s°F (7°C).

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17. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

For the serious skier who wants a taste of the Wild West, Jackson Hole is the ultimate destination. This place is legendary for its steep, challenging terrain (including the infamous Corbet’s Couloir) and its stunning Teton views. The town of Jackson itself is fantastic, with wooden boardwalks, antler-arch gateways, and a rugged, cowboy-meets-billionaire charm.

January means deep, cold-smoke powder. It’s for skiers and snowboarders who want to challenge themselves. But it’s not all extreme; it’s also a gateway to stunning winter wildlife tours in the National Elk Refuge (where you can take a sleigh ride among thousands of elk) and nearby Grand Teton National Park.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard the legendary terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
• Take a sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge
• Visit the iconic antler arches on the Jackson town square
• Go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in Grand Teton National Park

Weather: It’s properly cold. Highs average 28°F (-2°C), with lows plunging to 5°F (-15°C) or colder. Pack your warmest gear.

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18. St. Augustine, Florida

History buffs, this one is for you. As the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the US, St. Augustine is overflowing with history, from its massive Spanish fortress to its narrow, colonial-era streets. In January, you get to experience all this charm with mild, pleasant weather and almost no crowds.

But the best part? In early January, you can still catch the “Nights of Lights,” one of the world’s most spectacular holiday light displays, which often runs through the end of the month. The entire historic district is draped in millions of tiny white lights, making it unbelievably magical.

Things to do:

• Explore the Castillo de San Marcos
• Wander the historic streets of the Colonial Quarter
• Visit Flagler College (a former Gilded Age hotel)
• See the “Nights of Lights” (if you go early in the month)

Weather: Cool and mild. Highs are around 66°F (19°C), with lows in the 40s°F (8°C).

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19. U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas & St. John)

Okay, so you want real tropical. If you have a passport (or even if you don’t – it’s a US territory!), the USVI is a fantastic and accessible Caribbean escape. January is perfect: the holiday crowds have thinned, the weather is dry and breezy, and the ocean is that perfect shade of turquoise. St. Thomas offers the cruise port bustle, great shopping, and Magen’s Bay, while St. John is over 60% National Park, offering pristine beaches and incredible hiking.

You can spend a week hopping between islands, snorkeling with sea turtles at Trunk Bay, and sipping rum punch at a beach bar. It’s the ultimate winter-beater.

Things to do:

• Snorkel the famous underwater trail at Trunk Bay (St. John)
• Relax on the sands of Magen’s Bay (St. Thomas)
• Hike the trails in Virgin Islands National Park
• Take a day trip to the British Virgin Islands (passport required)

Weather: Highs are steady at 82°F (28°C), with lows around 72°F (22°C).

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20. Savannah, Georgia

Much like its sister city, Charleston, Savannah is a Southern gothic dream that’s best explored in the cool, mild weather of January. The Spanish moss dripping from the ancient live oaks in its 22 historic squares seems even more atmospheric without the summer humidity. The city is quiet, romantic, and incredibly walkable.

This is a fantastic place to go in January for a long weekend. You can stroll through Forsyth Park, browse the quirky shops and art galleries, and delve into the city’s (allegedly) haunted past on a ghost tour. The off-season timing means you can enjoy the city’s stellar food and cocktail scene at your own pace.

Things to do:

• Stroll through the 22 historic squares (especially Forsyth Park)
• Walk along the historic River Street
• Join a spooky ghost tour
• Explore the eclectic shops of the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) community

Weather: Cool and pleasant. Highs are in the low 60s°F (around 16°C), with chilly (but not freezing) nights.

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21. Everglades National Park, Florida

January is, without question, the best time to visit the Everglades. This unique, subtropical wetland is unpleasant and mosquito-ridden in the summer. But winter is the “dry season.” The humidity drops, the bugs disappear, and the wildlife viewing is spectacular. As water levels recede, animals congregate around the remaining water sources, making it easy to spot alligators, wading birds, manatees, and more.

This is a great January vacation in the USA for nature and wildlife lovers. It’s an easy day trip from Miami but deserves even more. You can take an airboat tour, kayak through mangrove tunnels, or walk the Anhinga Trail, which is like an open-air zoo.

Things to do:

• Take an airboat tour to see alligators
• Walk the Anhinga Trail for guaranteed wildlife sightings
• Rent a kayak to explore the mangrove tunnels
• Climb the observation tower at Shark Valley for a 360-degree view of the “River of Grass”

Weather: Ideal. It’s sunny, dry, and warm, with highs around 77°F (25°C).

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22. Austin, Texas

Austin’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird,” and the city lives up to it with a fantastic, funky vibe, a legendary live music scene, and some of the best barbecue on the planet. While summer is sweltering, January is wonderfully mild, making it a great time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, like Zilker Park and the Barton Springs Greenbelt.

It’s one of the best January vacations for music lovers and foodies. The city isn’t as crowded, meaning you can get into popular music venues on 6th Street or in the Red River Cultural District, and the line for Franklin Barbecue might be slightly shorter (but don’t count on it).

Things to do:

• Listen to live music in the venues on 6th Street or the Red River Cultural District
• Eat your fill of Texas barbecue
• Take a dip in the (very cold) but refreshing Barton Springs Pool
• Watch the bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (though fewer are present in winter)

Weather: Mild and often sunny. Highs average 62°F (17°C), with lows in the 40s°F (6°C).

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23. Stowe, Vermont

If you’re looking for that classic, Currier & Ives New England winter painting, you’ll find it in Stowe. With its charming, white-steepled church, covered bridges, and main street lined with cozy shops, it’s the quintessential Vermont ski town. It’s home to Stowe Mountain Resort, which offers challenging terrain on Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.

It’s not just about the skiing. You can go snowshoeing, take a sleigh ride, tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory (it’s nearby!), or just cozy up by a fireplace in a historic inn. It’s pure, cold-weather charm.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort
• Tour the Ben & Jerry’s factory in nearby Waterbury
• Browse the shops on Main Street
• Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride

Weather: It’s a New England winter! Highs are around 27°F (-3°C) and lows are a frigid 7°F (-14°C).

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24. Puerto Rico

As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers a full-blown Caribbean experience with no passport required. January is simply perfect here. The weather is warm, sunny, and dry. You can split your time between exploring the 500-year-old cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and lounging on the beautiful beaches of Condado or Isla Verde.

And there’s so much more. You can hike in the El Yunque rainforest (the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System), kayak in a bioluminescent bay, and enjoy a vibrant food scene.

Things to do:

• Explore the forts (El Morro and San Cristóbal) and colorful streets of Old San Juan
• Hike in the El Yunque National Forest
• Kayak in a bioluminescent bay (best on a new moon)
• Relax on beaches like Flamenco Beach (on Culebra island, a short flight or ferry)

Weather: Tropical bliss. Highs are a steady 83°F (28°C), with lows around 72°F (22°C).

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25. Big Sky, Montana

If your ski philosophy is “go big or go home,” Big Sky is your mecca. It lives up to its name with 5,850 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest resorts in North America. The key feature is the relative lack of crowds. You’ll find wide-open groomers, steep chutes, and a massive vertical drop, all without the lift lines of other major resorts.

January is the heart of winter here – it’s cold, but the snow is fantastic. It’s also less than an hour from West Yellowstone, making it a perfect base for a winter tour of Yellowstone National Park, where you can see geysers erupt in the snow and bison covered in frost.

Things to do:

• Ski or snowboard at Big Sky Resort
• Take the Lone Peak Tram for 360-degree views
• Take a snow coach or snowmobile tour of nearby Yellowstone National Park
• Go snowshoeing or dog sledding

Weather: Seriously cold, but the snow is dry. Highs average 32°F (0°C), but lows are a bracing 9°F (-13°C).

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What to Pack for January Vacation

Your suitcase will look wildly different depending on which half of this list you’re booking. Here’s a quick guide.

Warm Places – FL, HI, CA, AZ, PR

• Layers: Don’t be fooled. A desert or even a Florida night can be cool. Pack a light jacket, sweater, or pashmina.
• Swimwear: A must.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Critical if you’re going to Hawaii or snorkeling in Florida.
• Good Walking Shoes: For exploring cities or hiking trails.
• Sun Hat & Sunglasses: The winter sun is still strong.

Cold Places – CO, UT, WY, VT, MT

• Base Layers: Thermal or merino wool tops and bottoms are non-negotiable.
• Waterproof Outerwear: A quality ski jacket and pants.
• Warm Accessories: A good hat (beanie), waterproof gloves or mittens, and a neck gaiter or balaclava.
• Insulated Boots: You need waterproof boots with good grip, even just for walking around town.
• “Civilian” Clothes: Something comfortable and cozy for après-ski (e.g., jeans, flannel, sweater).
• Goggles: A must for skiing or snowboarding.

City Breaks – NOLA, NYC, Charleston, Savannah

• Comfortable Boots: Prioritize this. You’ll be walking for miles. Make them waterproof for NYC.
• A Good Coat: A stylish wool overcoat for the Southern cities; a serious down parka for NYC.
• Layers: A mix of t-shirts, sweaters, and cardigans.
• Portable Charger: Your phone battery will drain faster in the cold (and from all the photos).

FAQ

What is the best place to visit in January in the USA?

For the best warm-weather beach escape, it’s hard to beat Key West, Florida, or Maui, Hawaii. For the best winter wonderland and world-class skiing, Park City, Utah, or Aspen, Colorado, are top-tier. For a city break packed with culture and food, New Orleans, Louisiana, is a fantastic choice.

What tropical place is best in January?

Hawaii is an incredible tropical destination, especially with the bonus of whale watching. For a Caribbean feel with no passport needed, the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. John/St. Thomas) and Puerto Rico are both perfect, with warm, sunny, and dry weather.

Where is the cheapest warm place to vacation?

Cities like St. Augustine (Florida), Savannah (Georgia), and New Orleans (Louisiana) offer mild-to-warm weather without the peak-season resort prices. You can also find good deals in Tucson or Austin.

Are there good beach destinations in the USA in January?

Absolutely. Your top bets are South Florida (Miami, the Keys), Hawaii (Waikiki, Kaanapali), Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. San Diego also offers beautiful beaches for walking, though the water will be cold.