It’s not quite winter yet, but it sure feels like it. I don’t know about you, but it’s already COLD where I live, and it’s already got me thinking about my cozy winter holiday getaways. Whether you’re looking to book something last minute for the upcoming holidays, or want a relaxing getaway later in the winter season, here are seven incredible destinations that will get you in the snowy mood.
Leavenworth, Washington
People in the Pacific Northwest already know this gem, but for everyone else, Leavenworth Washington is a Christmas movie come to life. Nestled in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style town, so you know they don’t play around when it comes to the holidays. The entire city is lit up with thousands of lights and the streets are close by so pedestrians can enjoy the festivities of a European Christmas market in the middle of Washington!
Manchester, New Hampshire
Manchester is a smaller city in New England, but it’s slowly but surely putting itself on the radar for great weekend getaways in all seasons. What makes Manchester especially dreamy is that it’s the perfect option if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of more popular winter destinations and take life at a slower pace. Take a stroll along the riverwalk, check out the boutiques on Elm Street, or for something more adventurous, head to the nearby ski and snowboard areas.
Helena, Montana
As the capital of one of the most beautiful states in the country, Helena, Montana has a lot to offer. For winter, Helena has something for sky-watching visitors: a chance to see the Northern Lights. Because the state is home to some of the darkest skies in the continental US, Helena is a great place for both new and seasoned star lovers. For more resources to explore astral phenomena, visit the Montana Learning Center near Helena offers the largest public telescope in the state with workshops suitable for adults and children, so feel free to bring the whole family!
Fairbanks, Alaska
Even as Alaska’s second-largest city, Fairbanks only has a population of just over 30,000, and even fewer in the winter, making it a great option for a quiet winter destination. The most popular What to do in Fairbanks in the winter include dog sledding, visiting reindeer farms, chasing the Northern Lights and then warming up after a long day in a hot springs. Depending on the month you visit, additional festivities take place in Fairbanks as well. From January through March you also have the opportunity to participate in local festivals such as the Iditarod, the World Ice Sculpting Championships, Winterfest or the Festival of Native Arts.
