With each change in season comes an excellent opportunity to experience new environments and regions. Luckily, this country features so many gems just waiting for you to explore them. Here’s our guide to the must-see locations in the US for each season.
Since we’re still in the thick of the coldest months, we’ll start with the best wintertime destinations! Most people flock to sandy resorts during this time of the year, but the adventurous individuals out there know there are more unique options for exploration. If you’re not afraid of staying a bit chilly, the following locations are worth a visit in the winter.
A lot of places in Colorado are worth a vacation, so we couldn’t pick just one! The state itself isn’t ludicrously large, so you can easily plan an itinerary that highlights all of these destinations.
Skiing enthusiasts will adore Vail, which is a little town right outside Denver with lots of personality. There are over 350,000 acres of forest to explore and nearly 5,000 acres of thrilling slopes. If shredding the powder isn’t your thing, Vail also offers stunning views and a charming downtown area for strolling.
Just outside of Vail lies Beaver Creek, home to the world-famous Beaver Creek Resort. The views of the Rocky Mountains here are indescribable, and the town features some of the best coffee shops in the whole country. You can even ditch the skis and hike the many trails dotting this region for a more relaxing experience.
Crested Butte is another tiny mountain town with scenic views and lovely slopes. The restaurant scene here is next level, and lodging is surprisingly abundant, even in the winter.
If you’re looking for the ultimate winter wonderland, look no further than Breckenridge. With breathtaking views, charming architecture, and many amenities, this Victorian-style mining town looks as though it were plucked straight from a fairytale.
The Beehive State is mainly known for its spectacular national parks. In fact, Utah features the “Mighty Five,” which are worth a visit any time of the year. However, the wintertime offers a unique, unforgettable experience. These five consist of Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Zion National Park.
We recommend prioritizing Bryce when visiting Utah in the winter, as it offers the most accessible and rewarding vacation. Underneath the snowfall, you’ll see rock faces rich with hues of red, orange, and white. The terrain is breathtaking: the Bryce Amphitheatre features 200-foot-tall spires in all sorts of striking shapes.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable hike, you have over 35,000 acres of land to explore. Just make sure you bundle up, as the high altitude makes for a chilly climate.
Luckily, spring is almost here, which means it’s time to plan your warm-weather getaway! Most spring-breakers prefer a party town in Florida or an amusement park in California, but the US has so much more to offer. From city visits to rugged excursions, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a more urban spring vacation, there’s no better city than New Orleans. The mixture of history, food, nightlife, and the weather can’t be beat, and tourists find the town very friendly.
You can explore the famous Bourbon Street, which boasts many restaurants, bars, and live music venues. For adults, New Orleans does, in fact, allow public drinking, so get ready for a wild night out on the town! Frenchman Street offers more live music and fun bars, but it’s more relaxed than Bourbon Street. Venture outside of the city for a tour of the local wildlife and surrounding historic properties.
Hawaii is the most tropical state in the Union, and the trip there is worth every penny. Most people book a stay at a lovely resort for their time on Maui, but leaving the resort offers a truly adventurous experience. Try your luck at surfing, as the spring waters are perfect for beginners, or dive into a breathtaking waterfall on Valley Isle. Or you can book a whale-watching tour—you just might spot some humpbacks and their newborn calves.
Nothing beats the dog days of summer, and the US offers many locations for soaking up some sun. California provides the best scenery during this time of year.
The Golden State is home to some of the best national parks the country has to offer, and you can easily plan a trip that includes each one. The most famous is Yosemite, which is east of San Francisco. You can do anything from birdwatching to full-on rock-climbing here, all while taking in amazing views. Make sure you visit Yosemite Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in North America. You can also catch a glimpse of El Capitan, a 3,000-foot rock face, or snap unforgettable pictures at Glacier Point.
Consider a quick trip to Sequoia National Park and Joshua Tree National Park for more amazing views and environments.
Fall is still far away, but the US offers many unique locations worth visiting. If you’re up for the chill, these spots provide unforgettable vacation experiences.
Alaska was the last state to enter the Union, but it certainly isn’t in last place when it comes to amazing views. Specifically, the Inside Passage is a trip that everyone should take once in their lives. A cruise will take you past spectacular glaciers, where you can see enormous ice formations towering right above you. Plus, the wildlife is rich in Alaska, featuring massive grizzly bears and whales.
Tennessee and North Carolina are both home to fun cities and enticing landscapes, but nothing compares to the Great Smoky Mountains. This range stretches from Knoxville to Charlotte and offers tons of adventurous experiences. You can hike the trails, climb the rock faces, zip-line through the forests, and even take in the scenic views from a hot-air balloon. This is the perfect family-friendly trip, and it’s quite affordable.
This country has the best possible vacation spots for you and your preferences, no matter the season. Getting outside and experiencing nature is essential for living a rewarding life. With this guide to the must-see locations in the US for every season, you can adequately plan the perfect trip for yourself and your family. Remember that any adventurous excursion requires the right gear, and Escape Outdoors has you covered with our quality outdoor fashion attire from many top brands!
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