Looking for the best places to visit in February in the USA? Discover the top places to travel in the month of February for a memorable winter vacation ✨
When it comes to finding the best state to visit in the USA in February, most travelers look first for warm weather getaways that offer relief from the winter chills gripping much of the country. This makes states across the Southeast and Southwest optimal for a February vacation.
Florida emerges as one of the top states in the USA in February to visit thanks to its subtropical climate keeping things mild across popular destinations like Miami, Key West, Orlando and Tampa. Arizona sees plenty of sunshine and outdoor adventure around spots like Phoenix, Scottsdale and Sedona. In Arizona and Nevada, even colder places like the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas can be manageable in February.
The California coast around Los Angeles and San Diego makes for excellent February travels with ample sunshine and opportunities to hit the beach and mountains. Further inland, Death Valley and Palm Springs are blissfully warm as well. For ski lovers, Colorado, Utah and Montana boast epic snow conditions at renowned Rocky Mountain resorts like Vail, Park City and Big Sky.
February is great time to visit many places. This month brings warmer temperatures across southern U.S. states, granting travelers ample indoor/outdoor options without harsh winter conditions. Visitors can stroll palm-lined beaches in south Florida’s Miami and Key West, explore cactus-filled desert landscapes around Arizona, or roam historic neighborhoods and dine at celebrated restaurants in New Orleans, Charleston and Savannah while avoiding chillier northern destinations.
Where is the Warmest Place in US in February?
If you’re solely chasing warmth in February, look no further than south Florida. Miami and the Florida Keys usually see average February highs around 76°F (24°C), with nighttime lows only dropping to around 62°F (17°C). Other especially balmy U.S. spots in February include coastal San Diego, Hawaii’s Waikiki Beach, and Puerto Rico, where highs hover in the low 80s.
Of course, drier desert climates allow for pleasant winter conditions too. Phoenix sees highs around 68°F (20°C) and Las Vegas averages around 60°F (15°C). Similarly, Death Valley, California visitors enjoy typical February days in the mid 70s F (mid 20s C).
What is the Best Destination in February?
Deciding the single best U.S. travel destination for February depends greatly on the experiences you seek. Warm weather seekers can bask in the easygoing tropical vibes of Key West or let loose in glitzy Las Vegas. Ski junkies and winter sports enthusiasts will flock to iconic mountain towns like Aspen, Colorado or Park City, Utah with their world-class resorts and abundant powder.
Big city lovers can take advantage of discounted hotel rates and thinner crowds to indulge in the arts and culture scenes of East Coast hubs like New York or Washington D.C.. Outdoorsy types should consider the Grand Canyon in Arizona or beloved national parks across California, like Death Valley and Joshua Tree.
Foodies may head straight to culinary hotspots like New Orleans to feast on Cajun and Creole specialties. And theme park fanatics can avoid peak crowds while hitting up attractions in Orlando. Choose destinations featuring your favorite activities and sights, and embrace the joys of an unforgettable winter escape.
What US States are Warm in February?
The southernmost U.S. states across the Southeast, Southwest and West Coast enjoy the warmest and sunniest weather during February. This makes spots throughout Florida, Georgia, Arizona, California, Louisiana and Texas optimal for finding pleasant conditions.
Florida sees highs in the 70s F (20s C) from Miami to the Gulf Coast beaches of the Tampa and Clearwater regions. In Arizona, Phoenix averages 68°F (20°C) while Tucson hits 65°F (18°C). Over in California, San Diego enjoys typical February temperatures around 65°F (18°C) while Death Valley sees 80°F (27°C).
As one of the world’s top warm weather refuge during winter months, south Florida takes the prize for best places to travel in February with average highs of 76°F in Miami and Key West ideal for beachgoing and water sports. On the West Coast, San Diego enjoys February highs around 65°F perfect for attractions like the zoo, waterfront strolling and enjoying epic sunsets over the Pacific. For striking scenery, Sedona, Arizona similarly sees temperatures in the low 60s for hiking among its famed red rock formations. Las Vegas also maintains warmer 60°F afternoons in February amenable to exploring The Strip or side trips to places like the Grand Canyon.
Even southern Louisiana, home to New Orleans, and low-lying South Texas offer warmer alternatives to much of the U.S., albeit with slightly cooler temperatures by comparison.
Where is a Good Time to Travel in February?
Best Places to Visit in February in North East?
For Northeasterners wanting to stay somewhat close to home in February, big East Coast cities like New York, Boston and Philadelphia top the list, especially for urbanites missing out on warmth and eager to indulge in world class shopping, dining, arts and entertainment. Ski resorts across Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine also entice regional travelers with top-notch ski conditions.
Best Places to Visit in February North West USA
The scenic Pacific Northwest shines as a fabulous winter escape filled with urban arts and culture, outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery when you visit in February. The Seattle region boasts cool neighborhood vibe with independent coffeehouses, microbreweries and fresh seafood. Oregon entices with the dramatic Columbia River Gorge and lively hipster magnet of Portland. And Washington’s scenic San Juan Islands allow peaceful country drives among forests and coastlines. Northern Cascades National Park also grants snow-covered wilderness to explore by snowshoeing its ridges and valleys blanketed in evergreens.
Best Places to Visit in February east coast USA?
From Miami’s glittering beaches to Orlando’s theme park wonderlands to Charleston’s cobblestone streets lined with antebellum mansions, the U.S. East Coast offers abundant options for an alluring February getaway. Miami and the rest of south Florida top the list weather-wise while still offering big city energy. Heading northward, food lovers may flock straight to New Orleans for Mardi Gras feasting or Savannah to sample Southern comfort cuisine in one of America’s most charming cities. The nation’s capital, Washington D.C., also makes for an unforgettable February visit filled with iconic museums and monuments.
Best Places to Visit in February west coast USA?
Along America’s West Coast, February travelers would be remiss to not spend some time soaking up the sunshine in San Diego or Los Angeles, where ample beaches, hikes and attractions beckon visitors to embrace the easygoing California vibe. Nature lovers can venture to legendary national parks like Death Valley or Joshua Tree to take advantage of the warmer yet pleasantly balmy desert air. Up north in Seattle, the rainy season takes a breather in February, making it a nice time to explore local sights, coffeehouses and seafood institutions without huge crowds.
Best Places to Visit in February south USA?
While northern states contend with winter weather in February, destinations across the southern half of the country shine with warmer conditions ideal for travel. Outdoor lovers should consider vacationing in spots like San Diego, Tucson, Phoenix and southern Florida where abundant sunshine allows everything from golfing and hiking to relaxing poolside without heavy winter gear. Cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Charleston and Savannah also promise pleasant weather for urban exploring.
Across the southern U.S., February shines as an ideal time to visit Florida hot spots like Miami for partying along South Beach or the Florida Keys for soaking up a laidback Caribbean-esque atmosphere. Outdoor adventurers around Arizona can hike among the red rocks of Sedona or gaze in awe at the Grand Canyon, while theme park fanatics hit up attractions in Orlando. New Orleans celebrates the lead-up to Mardi Gras with elaborate parades and free-flowing revelry. Over in Texas, music lovers shouldn’t miss experiencing the renowned live music and BBQ scene in Austin.
Beyond sought-after locales like Miami and Key West, travelers aiming to soak up warmth in February can also opt for nature adventures amid stunning desert landscapes in Arizona or beautiful coastlines along southern California. Phoenix and Tucson average highs around 65-68°F for hiking among saguaro-filled vistas while the San Diego coast enjoys sun-filled days in the 60s perfect for sightseeing along scenic waterfronts and beaches.
Ski Resorts
For ski lovers, few things beat the experience of gliding down the slopes of a premier winter resort. Come February, iconic mountain destinations across the western USA offer phenomenal skiing and riding among snow-dressed peaks. Colorado classics like Vail, Aspen and Telluride boast extensive terrain and charming mountain town vibes. Utah gems like Park City, home of the former Olympic slopes, Alta and Snowbird dazzle with their light, deep powder. And Montana havens like Big Sky and Whitefish provide big mountain skiing and stunning alpine scenery. February’s abundant snowfall means these world-class ski resorts shine with incredible conditions.
List of The Best Places to Visit in February in The USA
When February rolls around, common winter wanderlust shifts towards finding warmer destinations, snowy mountain escapes or vibrant big cities to liven up the standard winter doldrums. Fortunately, the USA offers all this and more among its wealth of top vacation spots prime for exploring this time of year, from tropical havens to iconic ski towns. Here are 15 of the best places to visit come February.
Miami
As one of the best cities to visit in February, Miami boasts sunshine galore and averages high temps in the mid-70s F (mid 20s C). Beyond world-famous South Beach, this sizzling Florida hotspot tempts visitors with a flashy nightlife and arts scene, Cuban and other Latin flavors infusing its celebrated restaurant landscape, pastel art deco architecture and luxury beachfront hotels.
South Carolina
South Carolina shines as a top warm weather escape in February with pleasant weather ideal for exploring its celebrated southern charms. Visitors can stroll the cobblestone streets of romantic Charleston, known for antebellum architecture, horse-drawn carriages and amazing food. Nearby beach towns like Pawleys Island and Isle of Palms also allow building sandcastles and enjoying leisurely beachfront strolls during the cooler winter months. For outdoor lovers, South Carolina state parks like Table Rock and Caesars Head offer miles of hiking among waterfalls and mountain scenery dressed in a forest of bare winter trees.
St. Augustine, Florida
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine on Florida’s Atlantic coast provides a pleasant escape with warmer weather and smaller crowds in February. Visitors can soak up history by exploring the Spanish colonial Quarter, walking the cobblestone streets of the Old City, and visiting landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos fort and Flagler College.
Napa Valley, California
With its vineyards dormant in winter, Napa offers a more peaceful ambience in February than the crowded fall harvest season. Travelers can indulge in world-class food and wine tasting without the crowds, stay in luxury lodges, and enjoy cooler weather ideal for biking and hikes amid beautiful rolling hills.
Winter Park, Colorado
Winter Park is a top Rocky Mountain ski town located near Denver renowned for its downhill slopes, charming Main Street, and abundant snow. Over 300 inches of annual snowfall allows for prime skiing and riding at Winter Park Resort come February. There’s also great dining, spas and snowshoeing in a quaint Colorado mountain setting.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s historic capital San Juan offers a festive Caribbean escape in February. Visitors can soak up Spanish colonial architecture in Old San Juan, stroll along oceanfront trails, relax on golden sand beaches, and indulge in delicious cuisine blending Latin flavors. February weather is comfortably in the 80s and drier than other times of year.
Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont
New England’s Green Mountains lure skiers and outdoors lovers in February when abundant snowfall creates prime skiing conditions at resorts like Killington, Okemo and Stowe. There’s also great snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with mountain scenery cloaked in evergreens. The charming towns of Manchester and Woodstock provide plenty of apres ski options.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
One of the American Southwest’s most photographed slot canyons, Antelope Canyon sees thinner crowds and pleasant weather in February. Visitors can descend into the otherworldly narrow sandstone canyons adorned in magical beams of light. It’s also located a short drive from Horseshoe Bend in nearby Page, Arizona.
Maui, Hawaii
February brings ideal weather for outdoor adventures on heavenly Maui with highs around 80°F and little rain. It’s a great time for snorkeling among colorful fish, hiking through lush rainforests to waterfalls, road tripping the scenic Hana Highway, and taking in unforgettable sunsets by the Pacific. February is also peak humpback whale watching season.
Lake Tahoe, California
Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a premier winter playground come February when abundant snowfall allows skiing and riding at top resorts like Heavenly, Squaw Valley and Northstar. There’s also sledding, snowshoeing and stunning alpine scenery to take in around the lakeside communities and rugged Sierra Nevada terrain.
South Padre Island, Texas
With sunny skies and temperatures in the 70s F, South Padre Island on the Texas Gulf Coast provides a perfect warm weather escape in February. Visitors can relax on the white sand beaches, check out area attractions like the Port Isabel Lighthouse, or go kayaking and stand up paddleboarding in the Laguna Madre. February is an ideal time with comfortable weather, thinner crowds and lower prices.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride is a top ski town in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains known for its excellent ski slopes, charming main street and vibrant arts scene. February is prime time with over 300 inches of average annual snowfall. Skiers and snowboarders flock to Telluride Ski Resort and after hitting the slopes can enjoy apres ski activities like dining, shopping and taking in live music.
Key West, Florida
The laidback island vibes of Key West can be enjoyed in sunny comfort in February with average highs around 75°F. Visitors can soak up the tropical atmosphere while walking palm tree-lined streets, visiting landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home, indulging in fresh seafood and key lime pie, or watching legendary Key West sunsets. February brings lovely weather before the summer crowds.
Alta & Snowbird, Utah
For skiers seeking plentiful powder, Alta and Snowbird ski resorts near Salt Lake City receive over 500 inches of light, dry snow annually. Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, these resorts shine in February with peak conditions and thinner crowds than other Utah hotspots like Park City. Apres ski choices like great dining and breweries can be found at the base in Snowbird Village.
Death Valley National Park, California
February provides ideal weather for exploring Death Valley’s stunning desert landscape before scorching summer temps arrive. Visitors can hike through otherworldly sites like Zabriskie Point without intense heat and even enjoy seasonal flora like wildflowers. The park also offers incredible stargazing in its dark night skies.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone shines in February with the park’s geysers, hot springs and wildlife on display with thinner crowds than summer. Bison and elk graze snow-covered meadows while Old Faithful’s regular eruptions dazzle against backdrops of snow and ice. Winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing can also be enjoyed throughout its mountainous wilderness.
Charlotte, North Carolina
North Carolina’s largest city provides a pleasant southern escape in February. Visitors can explore the NASCAR Hall of Fame, take in the skyline views from the 60-story Duke Energy Center, visit the vibrant Uptown area and stroll through the beautiful gardens at the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens.
Sedona, Arizona
Known for its awe-inspiring red rock formations, Sedona offers perfect weather for hiking among its scenic trails and vistas in February. Popular hikes include the Cathedral Rock Trail and Devil’s Bridge Trail. Afterward, visitors can shop Sedona’s eclectic art galleries and dine at restaurants with panoramic views.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
February is a nice time to explore the huge expanses of wilderness at Texas’ Big Bend National Park, before the summer heat arrives. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, rafting and camping under the dark starry skies. Birds and wildlife like javelina are abundant.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas provides an engaging cosmopolitan escape in February. Highlights include the Dallas Arts District museums, the moving Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Reunion Tower and its panoramic views, and the historic Stockyards National Historic District to experience cowboy culture.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
The unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park is perfect for exploring in February before warmer months. Visitors can hike among its signature prickly trees, see fascinating boulder formations, stare up at dark starry skies and enjoy the cooler temperatures ideal for camping.
Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-style village in central Washington state looks like a scene from the Alps with its German architecture covered in snow in February. Leavenworth offers winter fun like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, wine tasting and cozying up by the fireplaces of local lodges.
Kirkwood, California
Kirkwood offers an appealing Sierra Nevada skiing and snowboarding escape near Lake Tahoe’s south shore in February. Kirkwood Mountain Resort features over 2,300 acres of trails with stunning lake views. Off-slope activities include snowshoeing, fat tire biking, ice skating and curling.
Providence Canyon, Georgia
Nicknamed “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area offers a scenic landscape to explore on its hiking trails and multi-use paths in February before summer crowds. Its eroded gullies display vibrant shades of red, orange, blue, yellow and white.
Saranac Lake, New York
Nestled in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake offers a quintessential upstate New York winter getaway in February. Activities include cross-country skiing on over 200 miles of trails, ice fishing, snowshoeing and cozying up in a remote cabin rental. Downtown provides shops and dining.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Ohio’s cultural hub of Cincinnati allows experiencing its museums, restaurants, breweries and historic Over-the-Rhine District without summer crowds in February. Visitors can also cheer on sports teams like the Reds or Bengals, tour Music Hall, or visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nicknamed “Music City,” Nashville allows visitors to indulge in its world-famous live music and entertainment scene without summer crowds in February. Highlights include the lively Lower Broadway honky tonks, Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry and restaurants serving Southern cuisine.
February is the perfect time to visit many great places across all states. Choose your perfect place and go for a memorable vacation!