Calling all cold weather winter haters! Are you tired of winter leaving you chilled to the bone? Longing for a warm weather escape from the cold?  I feel you. As a lifelong resident of Wisconsin, I know the toll the frigid winter can take on a person.  Where I live, winter means snow measured in feet and temperatures that begin with a minus sign. Yes, seriously. When the calendar flips to December, I’ve got my bags packed, ready to jet off somewhere warm in a hurry.    

I understand that there are some who love the “magic” of winter, or so I am told. If you’re looking for a winter weather blogger to talk ice skating and skiing, I’m not your girl. I’m shivering just thinking about those things. I spend my winters drinking a shameful amount of hot cocoa under blankets while cursing our choice to live in Wisconsin. I’m either planning trips or taking them to get the heck out of the polar vortex hell that is Wisconsin in the winter. 

If you are, however, looking for an expert blogger on warm weather winter escapism, you hit the jackpot. Today’s post is dedicated to those of you like me who unapologetically hate winter. So, let’s say goodbye snow, and hello sunshine! Grab your sunnies and let’s talk about warm winter vacations in the US. 

Benefits of Winter Travel   

Hesitant to consider a winter vacation? You’re not alone. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, vacations decline about 50% in winter. In addition, trips are shorter in stay and distance when the temperatures drop.  According to the numbers, like bears, people are hibernating in winter. And fewer people traveling in winter, is exactly why you should!    

The decrease in winter travel demand means lots of perks for those who travel this time of year. In summer, crowds are high meaning less availability, and skyrocketing costs. In contrast, winter brings thinner crowds and a more relaxed feel. Winter is your best bet to tour attractions in peace and insta-pretty photos without hoards of people.  

 Additionally, less travel demand means less reservation and booking headaches. During peak season, reservations fill quickly and must be made far in advance. According to Cheapair.com, to get the best deals, travelers need only book 26 days in advance in winter. In summer? That jumps to a whopping 182 days advance booking needed.  Last minute slacker travel planners like me, rejoice!   

The biggest perk of winter vacations is saving major dollars with off-season deals. Many hotels, airlines and vendors offer deep discounts in winter to incentivize travel. Flight and hotel prices are often at their lowest of the year in winter. On average, the same flight in winter will run you $40 cheaper in winter than summer. Winter travel savings are legit, friends.    

Lastly, travel is a great way to keep the winter blues away. Many people feel increased sadness, boredom, depression, and isolation in winter. According to Cleveland Clinic, 5% of Americans struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, with an additional 20% experiencing a milder version. Travel that includes increased exposure to sunlight and nature is one of the best cures for seasonal downs. I could spend money chatting up a therapist about the black hole of sadness I feel in winter. Instead, I travel and feel a little less crappy.   

Best Time to Travel in Winter  

When planning a winter getaway, timing is everything. Overall, travel is less busy and expensive in winter. This is not the case, however, for the peak winter holidays which will stretch your pocketbook and patience. During winter, those prime times are Christmas, New Years and Spring Break.   

Traveling around Christmas is one of the busiest and most expensive travel times of the entire year. If saving cost and chaos is important to you, try to avoid travelling at this time of year. If you must travel for Christmas, save on costly airfare and road trip instead. Spring break is another time when the crowds come out and the costs go up. While spring break times vary, the last couple weeks in March into April are the times to avoid.  

 So, when should you travel? For the least busy times to fly with the best cost, consider a trip in January or February.  February is the best month to score a bargain flight, with January closely behind. Flights are much cheaper during those months before prices start to climb in March.     

Warmer Weather Destinations to Escape the Cold   

As frost grips much of America, there are still pockets of the country where sunny days can be enjoyed. Destinations like Hawaii, San Diego and Arizona are well-known warm winter vacation spots for snowbirds seeking a winter escape. While wonderful to visit, these places can be overrun and pricey in winter. Instead, I will focus on a few less traditional destinations with mild winter weather you should consider visiting.  So, let’s escape the cold and explore five warm weather vacations in the US!     

Memphis, Tennessee   

If you enjoy winter but prefer a tamer version, consider a trip to Memphis, Tennessee. As far as weather, Memphis is known for getting the best of all worlds. Memphis winter brings a light dusting of snow and holiday cheer without the extremes of the North. The average daily temperature in Memphis is a cool but comfortable 50-65 degrees, wonderfully suited to exploring.   

So why visit Memphis?  I could ramble on forever, but Memphis is one of the most underrated cities in America.  The blues. BBQ. Rock n’ roll. And that Elvis thing. Memphis is home to some of the most fascinating history and best food in the entire country. Yes, the entire country. If it seems like I have a crush on Memphis, I do a little bit. While Nashville gets all the glory, give me Memphis, every time.  

Simply put, there is a ton to do in Memphis. Explore beyond the gates of Graceland where the King of Rock N’ Roll lived. Take in the soulful sounds of blues and jazz as wander the bars on lively Beale Street.  Explore the site where Martin Luther King was killed at the powerfully moving National Civil Rights Museum. If you enjoy nature, explore Mud Island River Park, or the stellar Memphis Zoo.  

Honestly, my favorite thing to do in Memphis by far, is eat. Alton Brown has called Memphis his #1 favorite food city in America, and the man isn’t wrong. If it isn’t my favorite American food city, it’s dang close. The cuisine isn’t super artful or unique in Memphis, but everything just tastes better.  Pretty much all of it. Chicken, ribs, grits, burgers, donuts…I have had several of my favorite foods in Memphis.  For a guided tour, check out Tastin’ Round Town which gets rave reviews. Or just hit me up for free, and I’ll tell you where to go. From Memphis-style barbeque to warm plates of soul food, the city’s food scene is a revelation.    

Lastly, if you are set on traveling over the holiday, Memphis is a perfect non-traditional spot to visit. We road tripped to Memphis for Christmas one year and had an amazing time. Peabody Memphis is one of America’s most stunning hotels around Christmas with its holiday décor on full display.  Bring the family to see the famous duck march during the splendor of the holiday season. Yes, actual ducks doing a grand hotel march. Christmas at Peabody Memphis will give you all the magical holiday feels. It is something to experience and makes Memphis one of the best places to visit in December in the US.  

Memphis is also a great city to visit during other winter holidays. Ready to ring in the New Year? Head to Beale Street for a massive party and guitar drop. Additionally, Memphis is the site of Martin Luther King’s murder which is now the National Civil Rights Museum. Consider exploring the history of the site around MLK Day in January or during Black History Month in February.   

Recommended Hotels in Memphis:

Peabody Memphis, Big Cypress Lodge, The Guest House at Graceland, Hampton Inn & Suites Beale Street, Comfort Inn Memphis Downtown 

New Orleans, Louisiana  

As the weather warms in late winter, New Orleans is springing to life.  The sounds of local musicians fill the air along with the fragrant smells of Creole food. New Orleans’ mild climate makes winter a lovely time to visit. In winter, the average city temp is around 65 degrees perfect to stroll the French Quarter, Garden District or Bourbon Street.  

 Overall, New Orleans weather is far more pleasant in late winter and early spring than summer. From April until October, the city has a hot, muggy climate with daily highs in the 80s and 90s. Nola also has the highest relative humidity in America. When it’s hot in New Orleans, it’s a deathly, struggling-to-breathe-type-heat. Additionally, hurricane season runs from June-November each year. A visit during this time of year is likely to be both sweltering and poses a risk of extreme weather.  I’ve done summer and winter in the crescent city and will choose winter to visit every time.    

To experience New Orleans at its most lively, consider a visit in February or March during the Carnival season. This timing allows you to join the city’s iconic Mardi Gras celebrations. The city puts on a show of vibrant parades, wild costumes, and a sense of revelry that is infectious. Grab some beads and enjoy the pulsating energy that is Mardi Gras in The Big Easy.  Also, make time to check out the displays at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World! New Orleans is one of the best warm cities to visit in February, and Mardi Gras is a definite bonus.  

If Mardi Gras isn’t your speed there’s still so much to do and surprisingly much to enjoy for free!  From the city’s distinctive homes and above ground cemeteries to its romantic parks and squares, Nola is a wonder. I strongly recommend exploring via one of the tours offered by Free Tours by Foot. I have taken their Ghost, Cemetery, French Quarter and Garden District tours which were all fantastic and budget-friendly! You can also explore the old oak trees at City Park and walk the iconic Jackson Square for free.  

If attractions are more your speed, there are tons of things to keep you busy. If you want to see all the best spots in the city, consider getting a Go City Pass. Honestly, much of the city can be explored on foot for free or at little cost.  The things I did splurge on and recommend include: Oak Alley Plantation Tour, City Sightseeing Tour, National WWII Museum and Creole Queen Boat Cruise.  

Perhaps the number one thing to do in New Orleans is to enjoy the city’s food. New Orleans is the home of flavorful Creole and Cajun cuisine as well as fresh seafood from the bayou. A few of the most beloved local foods include gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and lots of crawfish. I strongly recommend taking a New Orleans Food Tour! New Orleans cuisine is a melting pot of flavors that will delight your taste buds.    

Want to do New Orleans on a budget? Check out my post 14 Free Things To Do In New Orleans!  

Recommended Hotels in New Orleans:

Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel, Double Tree by Hilton New Orleans, HI New Orleans Hostel,  NOPSI Hotel New Orleans 

Galveston, Texas  

Galveston, Texas is a warm escape from winter offering both coastal beauty and historic charm.  You’ll fall instantly into vacation mode with the gorgeous gulf views and laid-back feel of the city. With an average daily temperature of 60 degrees in winter, the mild weather is perfect for a Galveston adventure.  Consider a visit near the end of winter, as Galveston is one of the best warm places to visit in March.  

Beyond its natural beauty, Galveston boasts a rich history and distinctive architecture. Step back in time on a slow stroll through the historic Strand District. The area is home to many well-preserved Victorian homes, shops, galleries, and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the antique trains on display at the acclaimed Galveston Railroad Museum. If travelling with kids, be sure to check out the many attractions at the pyramid-shaped Moody Gardens. If you or the kids like amusement, you won’t want to miss Pleasure Pier! Galveston also has several fun tours you can check out including dolphin watching and haunted ghost tours!  

Of course, no visit to Galveston would be complete without savoring the local seafood. From freshly caught shrimp and oysters to succulent Gulf Coast fish, Galveston is heaven for seafood lovers.  Be sure to try local favorites like shrimp gumbo or blackened redfish. Of course, best enjoyed with a beverage at one of the area’s waterfront establishments with views of Galveston’s port.  

Recommended Hotels in Galveston:

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Seaside Resort, TownePlace Suites by Mariott Galveston Island, Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center, The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center  

Orlando, Florida  

Including a Florida city on this list is kind of cheating, but oh well. It’s no secret that Florida is a well-known warm weather vacation spot. With so many warm city options however, the trick is figuring out where to go.  When the cold hits, it’s common for snowbirds to flock to the beaches of Miami and the Florida Keys. So, let’s mix it up and head to the theme park capital of the world: Orlando, Florida.   

With more than 300 days of sun each year, Orlando is known for year-round warmth. From June until August, the temperature can get miserably hot, soaring near triple digits. While great for the beach, that kind of heat sucks when standing in line for hours. When I visited Orlando in peak July, I swear, I could feel my skin melting off my body. It was that hot. In addition, Orlando is prone to frequent summer thunderstorms which can ruin a theme park trip. In winter, the average temp of 65-75 degrees is ideal for a day of amusement park fun. Having visited in both peak summer and winter, trust me when I say winter is the time to go.    

An adventure to Orlando is all about amusement parks and thrill seeking. Awaken your inner child by exploring the magical realm of Walt Disney World. Maybe Harry Potter is more your style. If so, head to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal. You can grab a butterbeer and stroll the streets of Diagon Alley. I don’t care how old you are, the amusement parks in Orlando are a ton of fun.  

If you really hate amusement parks (wah wah), Orlando still has tons to offer. Explore the shops and stellar restaurants at Disney Springs. Check out Orlando’s local gardens and parks including the floral displays at the Harry P. Leu Gardens. Orlando also has lots of nearby day trips to enjoy away from the parks. Popular day trips include: looking for gators in The Everglades, watching Manatees at Crystal River, and touring Kennedy Space Center. Orlando is packed with attractions, and the cooler days of winter are a perfect time to enjoy them.  

Recommended Hotels in Orlando:

Disney All Star Movies Resort, Disney Pop Century Resort, Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge, Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek,  Caribe Royale Orlando, Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista, Comfort Suites Maingate East, Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs 

Las Vegas, Nevada 

Las Vegas, Nevada is the ultimate warm weather destination for the entertainment lovers out there. With vibrant nightlife, world-class dining, and endless recreation, Las Vegas has no shortage of unforgettable experiences to offer. And with summer temperatures that could very nearly kill you, winter is the ideal time to visit.    

The climate of Las Vegas is dry and arid, with an extended season of scorching heat. From May until September, the daily high temperature of the city can regularly soar into the triple digits. During the winter, the daily temp falls between 55 and 65 degrees during the day. The cooler weather is perfectly comfortable for exploring the Strip and the many area hotels. One note to consider is if you want to experience Las Vegas pools, most are closed during the winter.   

Las Vegas is a bustling city with too much to see and do when visiting. One of Las Vegas’ most iconic attractions is the famous Las Vegas Strip. Stretching more than four miles, this lively boulevard is packed with extravagant hotels, casinos, and world-renowned resorts. Take a stroll along the Strip to marvel at the dazzling lights and architectural wonders of this one-of-a-kind city. Don’t want to walk the strip? Consider taking a Big Bus Tour that allows you to hop on and off at different stops in the city. Or, view the lights of Las Vegas from above on a nighttime helicopter tour. Another great way to see the city is from the Linq Wheel which you can get with a full bar! Lastly, if you love shows, Vegas has many but none as beloved as the Cirque du Soleil productions. 

Las Vegas is so much more than the Strip though. Just minutes away from the main drag is Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street, one of my favorite places. Fremont is home to older, more vintage casinos along with wild live music, and the infamous zoom line. If you prefer to do nature, Vegas has tons of perfect day trips to enjoy! Consider visiting Antelope Canyon, Bryce & Zion National Parks, Red Rock Canyon, Grand Canyon, or Hoover Dam. One of the experiences we loved most was our helicopter and boat ride into the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam!  

Recommended Hotels in Las Vegas:

The Venetian Resort, Paris Las Vegas, New York New York Hotel & Casino, Park MGM Las Vegas, Flamingo Las Vegas, Caesar’s Palace, Golden Nugget