Rather than spending the holidays cooped up in someone’s home, you could instead take a road trip over the holidays in the USA. There are tons of great destinations that you can see and experience which are completely different during the winter months. You’ll find national parks that are barren that you can explore on your own and beautiful landscapes capped with snow and ice. If you’re excited about the idea of touring the USA by car, make sure you visit some of the locations listed below.
1. Yellowstone National Park
Whether you’ve visited Yellowstone during the winter months or not, it’s a must when taking a US road trip over the holidays. You’ll get the chance to see the park as it was before cars were in every nook and cranny. There are far fewer guests around, so you can explore the geysers, mountains, and icy lakes all on your own.
After you’re done, you can make a detour to Jackson Hole to hang out at one of the famed mountain resorts. Have some fun on the slopes and enjoy the relaxation and entertainment of a four-star hotel before you take off to your next stop.
2. Key West, Florida
If you want to enjoy some sunshine on your American road trip through the holidays, consider Key West. Even in the month of January, you can expect to see temperatures in the mid-70s. But keep in mind that many tourists visit the area in the winter, so it may be a bit more expensive than expected.
If you’re a partier, there’s a great atmosphere for that, but those who like to relax won’t want to miss the city either. You can enjoy some fresh seafood from the many delicious restaurants, traipse through the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, or just hang out on the beach and enjoy the sun beating down on you.
3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Now that we’re looked at the sun and fun of Florida, let’s move to somewhere with all the snow you could want. We’re talking about Minneapolis, of course. This is a city that can get seriously frosty in the winter, but it’s also a location where there are tons to do no matter what the weather looks like.
Stop in during the Great Northern fest to enjoy the US Pond Hockey Championships, beautiful ice sculptures, and even carnivals the little ones will love. When you want a break from the frigid air and all the snow, check out the Skyway System which offers miles of footbridges connecting the buildings downtown.
4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Another place to visit for road trip holidays in the USA is in Michigan, a hop, jump, and a skip from Minnesota. This location offers the chance to take in beautiful sandstone cliffs that are near Lake Superior. The ice and snow truly add something to the experience and will amaze even the most serious of travelers.
There are caves, waterfalls, and even towers made of ice to take in. Some people choose to climb up the rocks using cleats and picks. If you visit in February, you can see the Michigan Ice Fest where tons of climbers make the trek. There are even classes that will let you take part in the tradition yourself.
5. Lake Tahoe, Nevada
If you enjoy strapping on skis and taking to the slopes, your driving holidays in the USA will not be complete without hitting up Lake Tahoe. The location is beautiful and has a ton to offer. Hang out at Incline Village for a bit before making a trip around the massive lake. You can even pop a toe in the water at Sand Harbor.
This is a destination where you will want to have your camera. The mountains reflect into Lake Tahoe for the perfect visual to keep with you even after your trip is over and done with.
6. Whitefish, Montana
Like winter sports? You are going to absolutely love Whitefish, Montana. Your driving holidays in the USA can include not just skiing but skijoring, as well. This involves getting on your skis and being pulled by a horse through an obstacle course. If you prefer something a little lower key, there are also tons of ski trails and you can go snowshoeing at Glacier National Park.
Make sure you enjoy some of the local food while in the area and take time to appreciate your surroundings. Montana in winter is a destination that can’t be beat during your winter holiday road trip.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
If you have ever visited New Orleans in the summer, you know how hot and humid things can get. You might expect it to be sweltering in winter, but that isn’t the case. You’ll find mild weather without the humidity and no crowds. This gives you a chance to check out all the attractions without fighting through the streets.
You can find all sorts of things to do in this city from going on a ghost tour to visiting the bayou or touring an old plantation. While you may not need a winter coat, remember to pack a jacket since it can still get a bit chilly at times. Don’t forget to try out some of the great food from the local restaurants.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Winter is not tourist season in Chicago, but that doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer you. You’ll find that prices for entertainment drop around the holidays and there is no lack of fun things to take part in. You can visit the planetarium, the multiple art museums, or catch a concert or sports game. No matter what you’re into, Chicago has options for you.
If you want to take in the cold and slow, make sure you make it up to Millennium Park where you’ll find the sculpture that is known as “The Bean.” While you’re at it, stop and try a Chicago dog or indulge in deep dish pizza.
9. Buffalo, New York
We’re going to round off this list with a truly epic winter wonderland. Buffalo is located right next to Lake Erie, which means the lake effect brings in all the snow you could want. Because this isn’t unusual for the city, nothing really slows down when it’s cold. You can even visit Niagara Falls and see how it looks capped with snow.
There is also a lot of interesting architecture in the area, so feel free to enjoy some of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work while you visit. There’s also a Millionaire’s Row, something that is difficult to find in other cities in our modern world. While you may know Buffalo for its wings, make sure you try the beef on weck, too.
Wrapping Up
These are nine of the most amazing destinations for any US road trip over the holidays. You can choose the locations that best fit your personality and have a great time alone or with the whole family in tow. Build an itinerary and pop it into your GPS and hit the road. But make sure you’re prepared for any issues that come up.
The United States has tons of beautiful locations that are even more stunning in the winter months. Find out why road trips are so popular when the weather gets cold by visiting a few of our recommendations.
