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Looking for the best places to visit in February in the USA? These are the places you want to travel to this month, whether you’re looking for winter adventures, special events, or escaping the cold.
Winter adventures are in full swing, and it’s time to start tackling your winter travel bucket list.
PinThis post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosurefor more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: December 13, 2023
- Best Places to Visit in February in USA
- Winter Activities
- Warm Weather Destinations
- Destinations with Special Events
- Map of the Best Places to Visit in February in USA
- Warmest Destinations in the US
- More February Travel Destinations
- Major Festivals in February
- What to Pack
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Planning Checklist
USA IN: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
15 Best Places to Visit in February in USA
February is a great time to travel if you have a flexible schedule. In most cases, you get to avoid the crowds from winter break and get better hotel deals.
:: WINTER ACTIVITIES ::
1. Stowe, Vermont
51 Main St, Stowe, VT 05672,map
Weather Avg:19° / 4° F
Stowe is a world-class mountain resort great for year-round outdoor activities. The snow is the highlight in the winter, and February has the best skiing conditions.
- TO DO:Ski / Snowboard, Dogsledding, Fishing
- EAT:Doc Ponds,Butler’s Pantry Breakfast,The Bench
- STAY:Search Hotel Deals in Stowe
- EVENTS:Stowe Derby
See More: 15 Most Romantic Getaways in the US
Pin2. Midway, Utah Ice Castles
2002 Soldier Hollow Ln, Midway, UT 84049,map
Weather Avg:41° / 16° F
Midway Utah is a winter wonderland with plenty of snow adventures like snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, skiing, and more. But one activity you can’t miss this month is exploring the Ice Castles. It’s been on our bucket list for a while, and we hope to check it out soon
- TO DO:Ice Castles, The Homestead Crater, Wasatch Mountain State Park
- EAT:Midway Mercantile,Back 40 Ranch House Grill
- STAY:Hotel Deals in Midway
- EVENTS:Skijoring Utah
Pin3. Big Sky, Montana
88 Ousel Falls Rd Unit A1, Big Sky, MT 59716,map
Weather Avg:36° / 9° F
Big Sky is calledThe Biggest Skiing in Americawith 5800 acres of skiable landscapes and 4350 feet of vertical drop. It’s also a great winter launching point to discoverYellowstone National Park.
- TO DO:Skiing,Yellowstone National Park, Ousel Falls
- EAT:Riverhouse BBQ & Events,Buck’s T-4 Hospitality,Horn and Cantle
- STAY:Search Hotels and Rentals in Big Sky
Local Tip: If you plan on visiting Yellowstone, be sure to check for closures or go on a guided visit.
See More: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park + Essential Tips for Your Visit
Pin4. Breckenridge, Colorado
203 S Main St, Breckenridge, CO 80424,map
Weather Avg:31° / 19° F
Breckenridge in February is snowy and sunny. Bundle up for some fun outdoor adventures. If you visit in early February, you’ll catch the end of the International Snow Sculpture Championships.
- TO DO:Snowcat Tour, Sledding at Carter Park, Skiing and Snowboarding
- EAT:The Canteen Taphouse and Tavern,Hearthstone Restaurant,Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria
- STAY:Breckenridge Hotel Deals
Local Tip: You don’t need a car. There are shuttles from Denver International Airport to breezily get to Breckenridge, and there is a free bus system throughout the town. Most hotels also offer free shuttles to and from town.
Pin5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
N8391 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862,map
Weather Avg:26° / 11° F
Winter at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is extra magical. You’ll find beautiful ice formations and ice curtains, and you can evenice climb. Snow typically starts mid-November and lasts until late April, so February gets you right in the middle of the action.
- TO DO:Snowshoe, Ice Climbing, See Ice Curtains
- EAT:Tracey’s,Muldoon’s Pasties,Taco Primo
- STAY:Hotels Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pin:: Warm Destinations ::
6. Death Valley National Park, California →
36.4617588,-116.8688057,map
Weather Avg:74° / 46° F
Death Valley is one of ourfavorite national parksbecause the landscape varies so much. You can climb over dunes, walk on the lowest point in North America, or hike along colorful hills.
It’s scorching during the summer, but you can comfortably spend all day outside in the winter. Just be sure to bring layers since the temperatures drop significantly when the sun goes down.
- TO DO:Badwater Basin, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point
- EAT:Last Kind Words Saloon,Happy Burro Chili & Beer,Smokin J’s Barbecue
- STAY:Search Death Valley Hotels
Local Tip: If you plan on visiting multiple National Parks in one year, pick up anannual passto save money.
See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
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Pin7. Las Vegas, NV →
36.0306029,-113.8290033, map
Weather Avg:66° / 33° F
We love the mild winters in Las Vegas. The weather is perfect for hiking and climbing (send temps!), and you always have the Strip but with fewer crowds. If you’re looking to celebrateValentine’s in Vegas, you’ll have plenty of options for nice dinners and romantic activities.
- TO DO:Bellagio Conservatory,Ethel M Cactus Garden, Downtown Las Vegas
- EAT:E by Jose Andres, Mizumi, Poke Express
- STAY:Las Vegas Hotel Deals
- EVENTS:MAGIC Las Vegas, Lunar New Year
Local Tip: The sun sets early (around 4:30), soplan your days accordingly. Also, bring layers. Visitors don’t realize Vegas is not hot year-round.
See More: Best February Events and Things to Do in Las Vegas
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Pin8. San Diego, California →
996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101,map
Weather Avg:66° / 51° F
After living in a different city each year, San Diego is still our favorite city to call a home base in the US. During February, you get great weather to hike and walk around town. Plus, it’sMuseum Monthwith 50% off more than 45 different museums.
- TO DO:San Diego Bucket List,Best Photo Spots
- EAT:Carnitas Snack Shack,Hammond’s Ice Cream,Steamy Piggy
- STAY:San Diego Hotel and Rental Deals
- EVENTS:Museum Month, Gaslamp Mardi Gras
See More: 25 Free Things to Do in San Diego
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Pin9. Miami, Florida
1701 Meridian Ave #403, Miami Beach, FL 33139,map
Weather Avg:75° / 64° F
Water temps aren’t ideal for swimming in February, but you can still soak in the sun on the beaches, check out clubs, or explore other city attractions without crowds outside of big events. February also brings the South Beach Wine & Food Festival and Super Bowl Sunday this year.
- TO DO:Boat Tour, Charter a Fishing Boat, Everglades National Park
- EAT:CVI.CHE 105,The Salty Donut,KYU
- STAY:Search Miami Hotels
- EVENTS:South Beach Wine & Food Festival
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Pin10. Paradise Valley, Arizona
33.5459013,-112.0352594,map
Weather Avg:72° / 40° F
Paradise Valley is a small town in the heart ofScottsdale-Phoenix, making it a great home base to explore the outdoors. There is plenty to do for people who love arts and culture, sports, outdoor adventures, golfing, shopping, and more.
- TO DO:Camelback Mountain, Goldwater Memorial, Cosanti Bells, Golfing
- EAT:Hash Kitchen Gainey Ranch,Butters Pancakes & Cafe,Steak 44
- STAY:Paradise Valley Hotels
Local Tip: You can easily get around the Grand Canyon Village with the free shuttle bus.
See More: How to Spend the Perfect 2-3 Day Weekend in Phoenix Itinerary
Pin:: SPecial Events ::
11. New Orleans, Louisiana →
339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130,map
Weather Avg:66° / 47° F
Grab your Mardis Gras beads because this is the month to visit New Orleans. I have it on our bucket list, but we still haven’t been because I’m intimidated by the crowds. Someday, though, since we hear it’s an experience like no other.
- TO DO:101 Things to Do in New Orleans
- EAT:49 Best Places to Eat in New Orleans
- STAY:New Orleans Hotel Deals
- EVENTS:Mardi Gras,Tet Fest, Black History Month
See More: How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in New Orleans
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Pin12. Mobile, Alabama
111 S Royal St, Mobile, AL 36602,map
Weather Avg:64° / 46° F
Did you know that Mobile is the original home of Mardis Gras? It still holds the second-largest Mardis Gras celebration in the US. Besides the parties, you can also check out museums and explore the outdoors.
- TO DO:USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, Airboat Tour, 5 Rivers Delta Center
- EAT:Half Shell Oyster House,The Noble South,Meat Boss
- STAY:Search Mobile Hotel and Rental Deals
- EVENTS:Mardi Gras, Bienville Bites Floats and Food Tour, Jurrasic Quest
13. Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
102 W Mahoning St, Punxsutawney, PA 15767,map
Weather Avg:37° / 18° F
In February, head to Punxsutawney to celebrate Groundhog Day (Feb 2, 2023) and see all things groundhog in town. If you miss Groundhog day, you can also explore the millions of acres of unspoiled forests and mountains. Plus, you may get to see elk. They have the largest free-roaming elk herd in the eastern United States.
- TO DO:Phil’s Burrow, Gobbler’s Knob & Trail The GHC Headquarters
- EAT:Punxy Phil’s Family Restaurant,Leila Jo’s Cafe & Bakery,Laska Pizza
- STAY:Search Hotels in Punxsutawney
- EVENTS:Groundhog Day
Pin14. Seattle, Washington →
701 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101,map
Weather Avg:50° / 37° F
February isMuseum Month in Seattle. You get half-price admission to participating museums. Our favorites were the Chihuly, Center for Wooden Boats, and Living Computers. If you’re in the city for more than a weekend, also check out the best day trips from Seattle.
- TO DO:Museums, Space Needle, Pike Place Market
- EAT:Piroshky Priroshky,The Pink Door,Paseo
- STAY:Seattle Hotel Deals
- EVENTS:Northwest Flower & Garden Show, Museum Month, Brazilian Carnival
Local Tip: Don’t forget your rain jacket.
See More: 101 Things to Do in Seattle
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Pin15. Anchorage, Alaska
546 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501,map
Weather Avg:27° / 14° F
If you’re looking for winter adventures, Anchorage is one of the best places to visit in February in the US. You’ll find deep powder, crystal-clear ice, and you may even catch a glimpse of the northern lights (not as easy as you may think).
The skies are clear in the winter, giving you the best chance to see the Northern lights, and it’s perfect for flightseeing around the Chugach Mountains.
- TO DO:Glacier Cruise, Bike the Coastal Trail, Wildlife Viewing
- EAT:Moose’s Tooth,Snow City Cafe,Glacier Brewhouse
- STAY:Search Anchorage Hotels
- EVENTS:ShredMaiden X Slope Sisters, Polar Nights
See More: 15 Best Festival in the US to Add to Your Bucket List
PinMap of the Best Places to Visit in February USA
Warmest Destinations in February in the US
The warmest states in the winter are Hawaii, Florida, California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Louisiana.
The warmest cities based on average highs are:
- 84°F – Everglades National Park, Florida
- 82°F – Lahaina, Maui
- 81°F – Kailua Kona, Hawaii Big Island || Kahului, Mau
- 80°F – Honolulu, Oahu
- 79°F – Hilo, Hawaii Big Island
- 78°F – Miami, Florida
- 76°F –Key West, Florida
- 74°F –Palm Springs, California|| Yuma, Arizona ||Big Bend National Park, Texas
- 73°F –Orlando, Florida|| Death Valley National Park, California
- 72°F –Anza Borrego, California||Phoenix, Arizona
PinMore Travel Destinations in February
- AK:Denali National Park(Denali Winterfest Celebration)
- AR:Hot Springs National Park (water levels just right and fewer crowds)
- AZ:Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest (wildflowers from Mar to Oct),Phoenix, Tucson
- CA:Alabama Hills,Big Sur,Joshua Tree,LA/Santa Monica, Lake Tahoe (Tahoe City SnowFest), Mendocino,Palm Springs,San Francisco, Santa Barbara,Yosemite
- CO:Aspen,Mesa Verde National Park(cliff dwellings tours are closed), Telluride, Vail
- DC
- FL:Everglades National Park, Fort Meyers, Naples,Orlando,Sarasota, St Augustine, Florida Keys, Biscayne National Park,Key West
- GA:Atlanta, Providence Canyon, Jekyll Island, Savannah
- HI:Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Oahu, Kailua, Kauai, Maui
- ID:McCall Winter Carnival
- ME:Acadia National Park
- MN:Minneapolis (Great Northern Festival), St Paul (St Paul Winter Carnival)
- MT:Whitefish Winter Carnival
- NH:North Conway, Dartmouth Winter Carnival
- NM:Santa Fe,White Sands
- NY:Saranac Lake (Winter Carnival), NYC (NY Fashion Week)
- NC:Beaufort, Cashiers, Great Smoky National Park, Hot Springs National Park
- OH:Cincinnati, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- OR:Crater Lake National Park, Bend’s Oregon WinterFest,PortlandWinter Light Festival
- PA:Philadelphia
- RI:Newport (Newport Winter Festival)
- SC:Myrtle Beach, Table Rock State Park
- TX:Austin,Big Bend National Park, Dallas, San Antonio, South Padre Island, Galveston (3rd Largest Mardi Gras Celebration)
- UT:Alta,Arches National Park,Bryce Canyon National Park, Park City, Salt Lake City
- VA:Charlottesville
- VT:Magic Mountain Ski Area
- WA:Leavenworth, Mt Rainier National Park, Skagit Valley Bald Eagles
- WI:Milwaukee, Apostles Islands
USA IN: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
PinMajor Festivals in February
Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana
Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida
Whitefish Winter Festival in Whitefish, Montana
What to Pack (Our Travel Favorites)
- Backpack
- Raincoat(see allour favorite travel jackets)
- Water Bottle (our current favorites)
- Portable Charger
For Cold Weather Destinations:
- Rechargeable Hand Warmer
- Insulated and Waterproof Shoes
- 3-in-1 Parka
- Midlayers
- Heavyweight Socks
- Beanie
- Balaclava
- Gloves
For Warm Weather Destinations:
Want to knowwhat to wear to the airport? These areour ideal airport outfitsandour carry-on essentials for every flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE WARMEST PLACE TO VISIT IN THE US IN FEBRUARY?
Miami, Florida, is the warmest city in February, with an average of 78.1°F.
WHERE IS HOT AND CHEAP IN FEBRUARY?
As long as you avoid any major events or Valentine’s Day, Las Vegas always has great deals in February. You can get a mix of partyingon the stripandenjoying the outdoors.
WHERE IS BEST FOR WINTER SUN IN FEBRUARY?
Yuma, Arizona, has 87% days of sunshine in February, making it the sunniest place in the US.
WHERE SHOULD I GO ON A BEACH IN THE WINTER?
If you’re looking for beaches in the winter, visit Hawaii. The weather is always lovely and warm, and the beaches are beautiful.
WHERE IS IT WARM ALL YEAR ROUND IN THE US?
Florida ranks overall as the warmest state year-round.
WHAT US CITY HAS THE BEST YEAR ROUND WEATHER?
WHERE IS IT 70 DEGREES ALL YEAR ROUND?
Santa Barbara, California
WHAT US CITY HAS THE MOST 70 DEGREE DAYS?
WHICH STATE HAS THE WORST WEATHER?
Everyone has different opinions on what’s terrible weather, but for this purpose, we will choose Minnesota because it’s the coldest state.
WHICH STATE HAS NO SNOW?
Florida and Hawaii (except for the mountains).
WHAT’S THE SNOWIEST STATE IN THE US?
Vermont gets more snow yearly than any other state, with an average of 89.25 inches.
WHAT IS THE COLDEST STATE IN USA?
Alaska has the coldest temperature ever recorded in the US at -80. Montana is next with -70 in 1954.
WHAT IS THE MOST HUMID CITY IN THE US?
San Franciscois the most humid city in the US.
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
Is there anywhere we missed on our list of best places to visit in February in USA?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
PinEsther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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As an avid traveler and enthusiast with a deep passion for exploring diverse destinations, I've had the privilege of experiencing the charm and uniqueness of various locations. My extensive firsthand knowledge allows me to guide fellow travelers and enthusiasts in discovering the best places to visit, including the nuances of each location's weather, activities, and local events.
Now, delving into the content of the article about the best places to visit in February in the USA, let's break down the key concepts mentioned:
Winter Activities:
-
Stowe, Vermont:
- TO DO: Ski/Snowboard, Dogsledding, Fishing
- EAT: Doc Ponds, Butler’s Pantry Breakfast, The Bench
- STAY: Search Hotel Deals in Stowe
- EVENTS: Stowe Derby
-
Midway, Utah Ice Castles:
- TO DO: Ice Castles, The Homestead Crater, Wasatch Mountain State Park
- EAT: Midway Mercantile, Back 40 Ranch House Grill
- STAY: Hotel Deals in Midway
- EVENTS: Skijoring Utah
-
Big Sky, Montana:
- TO DO: Skiing, Yellowstone National Park, Ousel Falls
- EAT: Riverhouse BBQ & Events, Buck’s T-4 Hospitality, Horn and Cantle
- STAY: Search Hotels and Rentals in Big Sky
-
Breckenridge, Colorado:
- TO DO: Snowcat Tour, Sledding at Carter Park, Skiing and Snowboarding
- EAT: The Canteen Taphouse and Tavern, Hearthstone Restaurant, Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria
- STAY: Breckenridge Hotel Deals
-
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan:
- TO DO: Snowshoe, Ice Climbing, See Ice Curtains
- EAT: Tracey’s, Muldoon’s Pasties, Taco Primo
- STAY: Hotels Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Warm Weather Destinations:
-
Death Valley National Park, California:
- TO DO: Badwater Basin, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point
- EAT: Last Kind Words Saloon, Happy Burro Chili & Beer, Smokin J’s Barbecue
- STAY: Search Death Valley Hotels
-
Las Vegas, NV:
- TO DO: Bellagio Conservatory, Ethel M Cactus Garden, Downtown Las Vegas
- EAT: E by Jose Andres, Mizumi, Poke Express
- STAY: Las Vegas Hotel Deals
- EVENTS: MAGIC Las Vegas, Lunar New Year
-
San Diego, California:
- TO DO: San Diego Bucket List, Best Photo Spots
- EAT: Carnitas Snack Shack, Hammond’s Ice Cream, Steamy Piggy
- STAY: San Diego Hotel and Rental Deals
- EVENTS: Museum Month, Gaslamp Mardi Gras
-
Miami, Florida:
- TO DO: Boat Tour, Charter a Fishing Boat, Everglades National Park
- EAT: CVI.CHE 105, The Salty Donut, KYU
- STAY: Search Miami Hotels
- EVENTS: South Beach Wine & Food Festival
-
Paradise Valley, Arizona:
- TO DO: Camelback Mountain, Goldwater Memorial, Cosanti Bells, Golfing
- EAT: Hash Kitchen Gainey Ranch, Butters Pancakes & Cafe, Steak 44
- STAY: Paradise Valley Hotels
Special Events:
-
New Orleans, Louisiana:
- TO DO: 101 Things to Do in New Orleans
- EAT: 49 Best Places to Eat in New Orleans
- STAY: New Orleans Hotel Deals
- EVENTS: Mardi Gras, Tet Fest, Black History Month
-
Mobile, Alabama:
- TO DO: USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, Airboat Tour, 5 Rivers Delta Center
- EAT: Half Shell Oyster House, The Noble South, Meat Boss
- STAY: Search Mobile Hotel and Rental Deals
- EVENTS: Mardi Gras, Bienville Bites Floats and Food Tour, Jurrasic Quest
-
Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania:
- TO DO: Phil’s Burrow, Gobbler’s Knob & Trail The GHC Headquarters
- EAT: Punxy Phil’s Family Restaurant, Leila Jo’s Cafe & Bakery, Laska Pizza
- STAY: Search Hotels in Punxsutawney
- EVENTS: Groundhog Day
-
Seattle, Washington:
- TO DO: Museums, Space Needle, Pike Place Market
- EAT: Piroshky Priroshky, The Pink Door, Paseo
- STAY: Seattle Hotel Deals
- EVENTS: Northwest Flower & Garden Show, Museum Month, Brazilian Carnival
-
Anchorage, Alaska:
- TO DO: Glacier Cruise, Bike the Coastal Trail, Wildlife Viewing
- EAT: Moose’s Tooth, Snow City Cafe, Glacier Brewhouse
- STAY: Search Anchorage Hotels
- EVENTS: ShredMaiden X Slope Sisters, Polar Nights
Additional Information:
-
Warmest Destinations in the US:
- Hawaii, Florida, California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Louisiana.
- Warmest cities based on average highs include Everglades National Park, Lahaina, Kailua Kona, Honolulu, and more.
-
More February Travel Destinations: Various locations across the United States, each with unique attractions and events.
-
Major Festivals in February:
- Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida.
- Whitefish Winter Festival in Whitefish, Montana.
-
What to Pack (Travel Favorites): Essential items for winter and warm weather destinations, including backpacks, raincoats, water bottles, and specific clothing for cold or warm weather.
-
Frequently Asked Questions: Information on warmest places, hot and cheap destinations, winter sun options, beach locations, year-round warm states, and more.
-
Planning Checklist: Practical tips for comprehensive travel planning, including insurance, language apps, rental cars, and essential travel gear.
This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights for anyone planning a February adventure in the USA, catering to diverse preferences and interests.
