Published Jul 4, 2019

19 Hidden Gems That Prove The U.S. Is The Most Beautiful Country In The World

Discover 19 lesser-known scenic spots in America that showcase the country's natural beauty.

Published Jul 4, 2019

Written by

Published Oct 21, 2024

My Winter Travel Gear Favorites as a Southerner Who Loves the Arctic

Your ultimate guide to the best winter gear to keep you warm and toasty this winter. All products tested in the Arctic and passed with flying colors!

Published Oct 21, 2024

Written by

Jackie Sutherlin

Winter is my favorite season. As someone who lives in New Orleans, my winter wardrobe would be laughed at by a Yankee. Well, at least it was laughable. Since I don’t live in an area where it snows, I tend to spend my winters traveling around the Arctic. Obviously, I needed to step up my winter wardrobe if I wanted to actually enjoy my Arctic adventures. I’ve tested a lot of winter gear over the years, and I’m ready to share the best winter gear I always bring with me on my travels. From the best winter jackets to the best winter accessories, let this be your ultimate guide to what to wear this winter.

The Norwegians have a saying: There is no bad weather, only bad clothing. This doesn't mean you have to shell out big bucks for name brands. I've built my winter wardrobe piece by piece while keeping my wallet happy—and I haven't frozen... yet.

The Best Winter Travel Gear

The best winter travel gear differs for everyone. Your budget and the landscape play a large role here. Everything I've listed below are the products I actually use. These may be my favorite winter essentials, but they are far from the only ones on the market. Find what works for you!

1. Winter Jackets

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

My favorite winter jackets are both waterproof and windproof. I didn’t realize how important windproof jackets were until I found myself battling hurricane-force arctic winds that cut straight through me.

My Pooluly ski jacket went with me everywhere. I loved how many pockets it had! It truly was a solid, waterproof, and windproof jacket that kept me warm and dry even in the worst winter conditions. Sadly, one of the zippers broke while I was fiddling with it on a layover in JFK. RIP, jacket; you served me well.

I recently picked up this ski jacket from Want Do, and I love it! It has plenty of zippered pockets (a must for me), and it also has a mesh pocket on the inside, which is the perfect spot for my camera. It keeps it safe, but I can still grab it pretty quickly. My only regret is the size — I sized up so I could comfortably layer underneath, and the jacket kind of swallows me. It’s not a deal breaker; I’d just recommend going with your true size if you get one.

Both of these jackets come in a variety of colors, and they’re both under $75. I loved my basic black-on-black aesthetic, but I went with a vibrant blue for my second jacket. I love how it pops in photos!

2. Winter Pants

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

Keeping with the waterproof and windproof theme, these ski pants by Postropaky are my favorite. I love them so much I have two pairs! They are fleece-lined, waterproof, and windproof. They will keep you warm and dry whether you want to or not.

The bottom of these pants has a zipper, which allows you to easily pull them over hiking shoes or ski boots. They also have an elastic waist that makes it easy to layer. These are true to size, and I always wear a pair of fleece leggings underneath, and I’m always comfy. (That’s not necessary — I’m just always cold.)

3. Traction Cleats

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

All it takes is one slip on the ice to ruin your day (or worse). Since I closely resemble that famous scene where Bambi walks on ice, I had to buy a pair of traction cleats to take with me on my travels. Yaktrax is a leader in the industry, and they’re very affordable (about $20).

They fold up super tiny and can be tossed in your luggage (yes, you can take these in your carry-on) and come in handy when you need them. Whether you’re shoveling your driveway or trying to make your way down a path to a frozen waterfall, these will serve you well.

And they’re super easy to put on. I’ve tried these with three different pairs of boots, and they slide over my shoes very easily. They’re meant to be snug, but you won’t struggle to put them on. Once they’re on, consider yourself 4WD enabled.

4. Winter Hats

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

I’ve gone through so many different winter hats that it’s embarrassing. Those crochet winter hats with the pom look adorable… until you realize that the wind slides right through that fabric. Plus, they stretch out with every wear, so by day three, your hat is constantly sliding down your head.

A lined hat is the way to go. These satin-lined winter hats have become my go-to for the last two years for a few different reasons. I love the satin interior — it keeps my hair from frizzing! I also love that the pom is detachable. This makes the hats easy to wash, plus it’s easy to remove if, say, you need to wear a helmet. I love going on glacier hikes and exploring ice caves in the water, and you need a helmet for that. The pom seriously gets in the way of your helmet, but you want to wear a hat because it’s cold. See the issue?

Furtalk has a wide range of winter hats and beanies, and they come in an endless range of colors. Yes, please!

5. Winter Scarf

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

I love a good, fashionable winter scarf. Honestly, I probably have too many for someone who lives in Louisiana. While these scarves serve a purpose, they’re not what ends up in my suitcase.

Neck gaiters are the way to go — especially in single-digit weather. Yes, that means trading fashion for function, but when the temperature is 8 degrees, it’s necessary. I love my faux fur-lined neck gaiter. I can pull it above my nose when I need to, and I love that it can also cover my ears and make for a pretty sealed-off situation from the elements.

It also packs up easily in my suitcase. I stick my camera lens in it for an extra layer of protection when I’m traveling — works like a charm!

6. Winter Gloves

Gloves are similar to winter hats. Those crochet gloves look great, but it doesn’t take long to realize that the wind cuts straight through them. Plus, I think we’ve all gone with the cheaper option only to realize that they’re not touchscreen-friendly (like they advertised).

I want my gloves to be touchscreen-friendly and warm but not so bulky that I lose dexterity. I’ve gone through my fair share of testing winter gloves, and I’ve finally settled on these winter gloves by Simari. They are windproof, water resistant, and touch-screen friendly. The cashmere lining feels like butter, and even though I wish they were waterproof (not water resistant), it’s a compromise I’m willing to accept since they work so well.

7. Fleece-lined Leggings

I’m always cold. I’m cold right now. Even though winter is my favorite season, I do not like being cold. Fleece-lined leggings are a staple in my winter wardrobe, and they should be in yours, too.

This 3-pack of fleece-lined leggings is perfect. First, they have pockets! Second, they come in a wide range of colors. I tend to stay in the navy-black-grey side of the color wheel, but you can go as bright as you want with these.

These act as my thermal layer when I’m out and about galavanting around the winter landscape, and they’ve always done me right. They aren’t joking when they say high-waisted, though. I wear these under my ski pants (mentioned above), and I’m always warm and toasty. They do pass the squat test, so you can also wear these on their own.

8. Winter Boots

This area was a trial and error for me. I don’t live in an area where I need super boots to get around, but I do need them for traveling. I’m on my third pair of winter boots in three years, and I think I’ve cracked the code.

Even if you don’t need waterproof boots, it’s worthwhile to have them. The first pair of hiking shoes I got were not waterproof, and I found that out the hard way. I stepped into a puddle with the confidence of someone wearing waterproof boots, and I was quickly humbled. Lesson learned.

I loved my second pair of hiking boots. They were waterproof, comfortable, and cute! They tackled glacier hikes and ice caves in Iceland and Via Ferrata cliff climbs in the Lofoten Islands with ease. My only struggle with them was how hard they were to put on. They needed to be laced up, and once they were on — they’re on.

And they set off every alarm at every TSA. That’s not a huge deal, but when you have TSA pre-check, not having to take off your shoes is a nice perk. I’d like to keep that perk.

I traded those in for my newest and best pair of hiking shoes, and I’m in love. These look like sneakers but act like boots, and they check off all my boxes. They are 100% waterproof, extremely comfortable, and a breeze to slip on and off. I can actually just step into these and walk off, which is a luxury I didn’t know I needed. They’re also under $50, which is music to my wallet’s ears.

9. Layers

Fleece is my best friend when it comes to layers. Typically, I’ll wear an activewear t-shirt (this 5-pack by Real Essentials, specifically) as a base layer and then a fleece jacket under my winter coat.

If I know the temperatures are going to be dropping and I’ll be outside for long durations (northern lights hunts), I’ll add a Sherpa-lined hoodie for extra protection.

For the fleece jackets, I love the ones I snagged from Amazon. I have a pullover version and a zipper version, and they both do the trick! I like having one of each just in case there’s a rare moment where I’m hot (I won’t be) and want to peel off layers. That has never happened, but when that day comes — me and my zippered fleece are ready.

The activewear base layer is ideal for a few reasons. First, it’s just plain comfy. Second, it’s designed to wick away moisture, so you will still sweat (even in the cold). I personally love them because they dry quickly. I can wash them while I’m traveling and hang them to dry, and they’re ready to rock in the morning. Another perk is that they pack down super small in your bag!

10. Socks

alt — Jackie Sutherlin / Only In Your State

People swear by Merino wool. For years, I just wore two pairs of socks (a normal ankle sock and a fuzzy sock) because I was on a tight budget. My feet were never cold, but I knew I’d have to get some winter socks eventually.

I finally bought some Merino wool hiking socks, and I get the hype. They are comfy, moisture-wicking, have arch support, and are breathable — they do all the things a sock is supposed to do. I was worried they were going to be itchy, but I was thankfully proven wrong!

You can get a 5-pack for under $20, which is a deal in my book! They come in a few different colors, all of them in some variation of a color-block pattern. Yes, those are my feet in the photo above, and no, I do not match my socks. Life's too short, y'all.

Now that you've got all the best winter gear, how about we put it to the test? These 12 destinations are picture-perfect for outdoor adventures this winter.

Experiences

Updated Oct 18, 2024

Here Are the 15 Absolute Best Places to Visit in January Across the United States

Discover the best places to visit in the USA in January, from warm beach destinations to exciting winter adventures.

Updated Oct 18, 2024

Written by

Chris Muras

After the excitement of the holidays, sometimes we need a chill-axing getaway to calm down and refresh for a whole new year. That's why we love sharing some of our favorite winter travel destinations. This list of the best places to visit in the U.S. in January has a little bit of everything, from the best overall January getaways in the U.S. to post-holiday getaways in the U.S., wellness retreats in the U.S., and even places in the U.S. where it snows in January.

This article is part of our Best Places to Visit in the USA series. If you're looking for the top places to visit around the country in each month of the year then look no further, our guides will give you all the seasonal travel inspiration you need to find the perfect location for your next getaway:

Best Places to Visit in The USA In January

When most people think about taking a January vacation, they think of hot tropical destinations. But there are some amazing places to visit right here in the U.S. that we think you'll love too. Let's get started in planning your next fun January getaway.

1. St. Petersburg, Florida

alt — John Coletti / The Image Bank via Getty Images

Location: St. Petersburg, FL
Why Visit In January: Visiting St. Petersburg, Florida in January is the perfect time to plan your golf getaway. With temps in the upper 60s and lower 70s, it makes for a delightful round of golf.
Where To Stay Nearby: Enjoy the ambiance of stunning golf course views when you stay at this lovely condo on the private Isla Del Sol Golf Course only minutes from Fort DeSoto North Beach.

St. Petersburg, Florida is a golf lover's paradise with six golf courses in town and another 42 courses within 20 miles! If you have been looking for a fun destination to plan your golf vacation with mild temps in January, St. Petersburg is a great spot. Especially if you are from the frigid up north where temps in the 70s sound pretty much like heaven in January. Even if you aren't in town to work on your golf game, a day trip to St. Pete Beach is nice in the winter when it isn't crowded with summer tourists.

2. San Diego, California

alt — Craig Saewong / Moment via Getty Images

Location: San Diego, CA
Why Visit In January: Visiting San Diego, California in January is just in time to catch gray whales as they migrate from Alaska to Baja Mexico. Typically over 20,000 whales make the journey so you have a great chance of spotting some.
Where To Stay Nearby: This lovely two-bedroom cottage near Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo is the perfect spot to crash during your SoCal getaway to San Diego.

San Diego, California is a beautiful city year-round. When you plan your trip in January, be sure to set aside some time for the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld of San Diego. If you enjoy stunning natural areas, La Jolla Cove, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and Coronado Island will delight your love of natural wonders. Even though winter in San Diego is on the cooler side, it actually makes a nice walk on the beach more enjoyable with a cozy sweater and temps in the 60s.

3. St. Simons Island, Georgia

alt — DorothyBlahnik / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Location: St. Simons Island, GA
Why Visit In January: A fun thing to do when visiting St. Simons Island, Georgia in January is to go on a Tree Spirit hunt. There are more than 20 majestic oak trees throughout St. Simmons that feature creative carvings.
Where To Stay Nearby: Take that romantic getaway you've been looking forward to by staying at the St. Simons Island Honeymoon Beach Cottage near Pier Village with lighthouse views and oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

This charming beach town has a calm quiet welcoming vibe that is even more peaceful in January. It is an incredibly romantic destination with sandy beaches, an abundance of rejuvenating spas, and the most enchanting Spanish Oak trees wrapped in Spanish moss. Treat your Honey Buns to a round of golf at the Sea Palms Golf Club, climb to the top of the historic St. Simons Island Light, (A lighthouse originally built in 1810, destroyed in 1862, then rebuilt in 1872, and restored in 2010) then round out the evening with a sunset walk on the iconic Saint Simmons Island Pier.

Best Attractions To Visit In The USA In January To Avoid Crowds

A winter getaway is a pretty good time to avoid crowds in general, but these "hot spots" for a cool getaway are even more chill. Below you'll find some solid recommendations for places in the U.S. where it snows in January.

4. Fairbanks, Alaska

alt — Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon / Moment via Getty Images

Location: Fairbanks, AK
Why Visit In January: Visiting Fairbanks, Alaska in January is a great time to catch an amazing aurora borealis because it is toward the end of its "dark season." At other times of the year, the sky is too bright to clearly see the northern lights.
Where To Stay Nearby: Walk to Creamer's Field to see the northern lights when you stay at this adorable log cabin that sleeps four. You can even warm up in the jacuzzi tub in the bathroom.

Sure you have to be a little adventurous to head to Fairbanks in January when the temps rarely go above freezing. But the beauty of an Alaskan winter is hard to beat. Between falling asleep to stunning northern lights, going on a dog sledding trip with Paws for Adventure, going ice fishing on Chena Lakes, seeing the fascinating ice museum at Chena Hot Springs Resort, or taking a reindeer for a walk at the Running Reindeer Ranch, there are numerous things to do in Fairbanks in January.

5. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

alt — Steve Terrill / Corbis Documentary via Getty Images

Location: Crater Lake National Park, OR
Why Visit In January: Visiting Crater Lake National Park in January is a special treat for snow sports lovers. With an average snowfall of 41 feet, you'll have plenty of fresh powder to enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And the photos you take home will be breathtaking.
Where To Stay Nearby: When you stay at The Lake House on beautiful Agency Lake you are in prime position for taking a day trip to Crater Lake while enjoying stunning views of the Klamath Basin.

Oregon is one of the most beautiful states in America. But many people don't think of it as a winter destination. Once you get a look at how stunning Crater Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, pine trees draped in powder, and an early morning sunlight setting the trees ablaze, we think you'll put this destination on your bucket list immediately. Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy some of the history and mysterious lore surrounding Crater Lake or maybe even spot a Sasquatch!

6. Heavenly Mountain Resort, Nevada

alt — Adie Bush / Connect Images via Getty Images

Location: Stateline, NV
Why Visit In January: While visiting the Heavenly Mountain Resort in January be sure you take the 2.4-mile Heavenly Gondola. It is a 20-minute ride high above the mountains that is simply magical after fresh snow. At the top, you'll find zippiness, ropes courses, and tube rides.
Where To Stay Nearby: For the ultimate Tahoe getaway, this six-bedroom chalet is absolutely beautiful - and the views are pretty okay too.

Heavenly Mountain Resort is a winter-only resort on South Lake Tahoe smack dab between Nevada and California. As the region's largest ski area, you will be treated to an elevation of 10,067 feet, 97 ski trails, and the longest vertical drop. With runs ranging from beginner to advanced there is fun for the whole family no matter what skill level you are at. Even if you aren't so sure about staying upright on two feet and slim little sticks, you can always hit the tubing runs at the top of Heavenly's gondola ride.

Best Places To Visit In The U.S. In January For Outdoor Adventure

It takes a certain kind of crazy to brave the winter elements, but since you are on the cool kids list we think you'll love these January outdoor getaways. These next couple of destinations are some of the best places to travel in January in the USA for outdoor adventures.

7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

alt — Scott Smith / Corbis Documentary via Getty Images

Location: Jackson Hole, WY
Why Visit In January: Visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming in January is particularly enjoyable when you go dogsledding to a hot spring! The Jackson Hole Iditarod Sled Dog Tours lets you drive a dogsled team 10 miles to a cozy hot spring where you can warm up those chilly toes.
Where To Stay Nearby: This gorgeous four-bedroom mountain home at the base of the Teton Range is only a minute's walk to the Jackson Hole Mountain resort.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is one of the best-known ski areas in Wyoming. So, of course, if you are a winter sports fan, it is already on your radar. But there is so much more to Jackson Hole than powder snow and epic ski runs. Go ice skating under the New Year's holiday lights in Teton Village. Go on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the Elk Refuge to see the herds of elk. Explore historic barns like the iconic Moulton Barns or the Chambers Barn in Mormon Row. Or, go on a brewery tour to some of the best breweries in Jackson.

8. Boulder, Colorado

alt — Cavan Images / Cavan via Getty Images

Location: Boulder, CO
Why Visit In January: Everyone knows visiting Boulder, Colorado in January will be an adventurous time on the ski slopes, but there is more than meets the eye to this lovely city. From craft beer tours to stargazing at the Fiske, polar plunges to epic film festivals, or fat tire biking on the Flatirons - you will not run out of things to do in Boulder.
Where To Stay Nearby: For a unique experience in Central Boulder stay at this charming Victorian home with modern upgrades less than a block from mountain trails.

Boulder, Colorado is another amazing mountain town that is a huge hit in winter. In early January the charming town is still lit with holiday lights and the festive atmosphere of New Year's celebrations. If you are looking for one of the best cities to visit in January in the USA for winter sports, an active downtown, and plenty of fun things to do - Boulder is going to be right up your alley. Be sure to eat at The Sink at least once – The Sink is one of the most famous restaurants in Boulder, often populated with a celebrity or two.

Best Places To Visit In January For Events

The front end of January is a festive time after the December holidays and New Year's celebrations. But for these next couple of destinations, there is so much more to celebrate even deeper into the month than just a one-day celebration.

9. Memphis, Tennessee

alt — Tetra Images / Tetra Images via Getty Images

Location: Memphis, TN
Why Visit In January: Visiting Memphis, Tennessee in January is just in time to curl your lip and swing your hips as it's the annual celebration of Elvis' birthday.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Cool & Unique Condo on Main Street is one of the most popular rentals in Memphis, TN only minutes from downtown Memphis.

One of the best January vacations in the U.S. for music history lovers is Memphis, Tennessee. Especially if you are an Elvis fan. January 8 is Elvis' birthday so each year there is a big four-day celebration around that time filled with music, stories about the King, movies, dancing, and plenty of rock and roll. Memphis comes alive with music anyway, but if you have a hankering for peanut butter and banana sandwiches head to the Graceland Mansion for an epic celebration.

10. Lake Chelan, Washington

alt — Beautiful winter view of Lake Chelan with blue lake and mountain tops covered in snow.

Location: Lake Chelan, WA
Why Visit In January: Visiting Lake Chelan, Washington in January allows you to take part in Winterfest - a nine-day celebration in Washington's winter wonderland.
Where To Stay Nearby: If you want to splurge on a multi-family getaway on Lake Chelan this beautiful five-bedroom home is a slice of luxury heaven.

If you are looking for one of the best places to go in January in the USA for a winter celebration, Lake Chelan is the place to go. With two epic fireworks displays, a beautiful ice bar, lots of live music, ice sculptures, the Winterfest Wine Walk, and more winter entertainment than you can fit on the head of a pin (well obviously), Lake Chelan is a pretty festive town in January. Don't miss the gigantic bonfire in Dan Morse Park fueled by a huge pile of former Christmas trees.

Best Hidden Gems to Visit in the U.S. in January

We've shared plenty of our favorite well-known destinations, but there is so much to explore in the country that you may not be as familiar with these hidden gems. After looking through the next several getaway locations, they will definitely be on your radar.

11. Bretton Woods Mountain Resort, New Hampshire

alt — A female skier turns on Cannon Mountain, Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire.

Location: Bretton Woods, NH
Why Visit In January: When visiting Bretton Woods Mountain Resort in January make sure you ride the Skyway gondola because it is the only eight-passenger gondola in New Hampshire. The view is incredible after a fresh layer of snow.
Where To Stay Nearby: Treat your family and friends to a ski getaway in Bretton Woods by staying at this beautiful three-bedroom home with stunning mountain views.

Sure Vail and Lake Tahoe get a lot of attention as ski getaways, but this little gem in New Hampshire is not so little. As New Hampshire's biggest ski area, Bretton Woods has 63 runs over 464 acres on the stunning White Mountains. With almost half of its trails marked as black diamonds, there are plenty of challenging runs to enjoy. It is still a great beginner mountain if you are still a bit wobbly on your skis with about a quarter of the runs being marked as beginner trails. Take a break from skiing and check out the canopy tours through the trees. If you are wondering where to visit in January in the USA for a ski vacation, Bretton Woods will treat you right.

12. Pine Island, Florida

alt — Scenic view of a pelican bird on a post at the pier and the Gulf of Mexico in Pine Island, Florida.

Location: Pine Island, FL
Why Visit In January: Visiting Pine Island, FL in January is like a tropical vacation compared to Orlando where temps are cool in the 50s - in contrast, Pine Island in January is a balmy mid-70s.
Where To Stay Nearby: This wonderful private villa is like a dream come true!

The southwest coast of Florida has hundreds of tiny islands – Pine Island is the largest. That being said, it is still a fairly small island at only around four square miles. It is like stepping back in time to a quiet laid-back community with a lush natural landscape with a unique blend of pine trees and palm trees. As an island you'd expect the fishing to be pretty fantastic - and you'd be right. If you head to the Matlacha Pass Bridge, you'll be in one of the best spots on the island. You can expect to catch cobra, trout, and snapper. Matlacha is also a wonderful artsy area with lots of shops where you can take home a souvenir. You can also spend some time spotting dolphins playing in the ocean.

13. Taos, New Mexico

alt — Michael DeYoung / Tetra images via Getty Images

Location: Taos, NM
Why Visit In January: Some would say New Mexico is the hot air balloon capital of the world so visiting Taos, New Mexico in January is a surprisingly good time to soar above the clouds (and the Taos Gorge) in a hot air balloon.
Where To Stay Nearby: This lovely Taos home with serene mountain views adds to the magic of your Taos getaway.

There is plenty of time to slip in one more ski vacation in January. And Taos, New Mexico is a pretty "cool" place to do so. Then again, Taos is full of history and mystery, so you can take a break from the ski slopes and go on a haunted tour of some of Taos' most ghostly locations. Of course, there probably aren't that many ghosts at the Black Rock Hot Springs so a hike to the springs followed by a dip in the naturally warm pools would be a delightfully relaxing thing to do on your Taos vacation.

14. Lander, Wyoming

alt — Mint Images - David Schultz / Mint Images RF via Getty Images

Location: Lander, WY
Why Visit In January: If you are visiting Lander, Wyoming in January you might be able to catch the Pedigree Stage Stop Sled race as it passes through town at the end of the month. This epic dog sled race starts in Jackson, Wyoming, and ends in Teton County, WY.
Where To Stay Nearby: Your adventurous getaway to Lander will be perfect when you book this modern two-bedroom home in the heart of the city near Lander City Park.

Lander, Wyoming is a mecca of climbing opportunities especially in Sinks Canyon State Park, Wild Iris, and the Wind River Range, a section of the Rocky Mountains with peaks over 13,000 feet. It may surprise you that Lander is frequently listed as one of the most outdoorsy towns in America – all you have to do is show up in a pair of hiking boots and we'll point you in the right direction for outdoor adventures. From biking to hiking, climbing to fishing, if you like enjoying the outdoors Lander is the place to be – even when winter weather keeps the creme puffs indoors.

15. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

alt — TammyJerry6465 / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Location: Apostle Island, WI
Why Visit In January: Visiting Apostle Island, Wisconsin in January is a unique time when the sea caves take on a magical appearance covered in icicles.
Where To Stay Nearby: This beautiful Madeline Island cottage is right on Lake Superior and offers you amazing views of Chebomnicon Bay.

The Apostle Islands in Wisconsin are incredibly beautiful in the summertime when kayaking is a popular activity. In the winter, however, the landscape changes into an otherworldly dimension of ice. These icy caves are a unique adventure you won't find any other place. The ice caves can only be accessed after several weeks of below-freezing temperatures because you need to walk across Lake Superior to get to them. Thus, January is a good time to visit. Aside from checking out the ice caves you will enjoy winter hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing.

Did you discover a few post-holiday getaways in the U.S. that you may not have considered before? If there are more of your favorite winter getaways that are not mentioned, please share them with a comment so we can add them to our list of the best places to visit in the U.S. in January.

But you know what the most important thing to do right now is, don't you? Book that January vacation! Or, you could always check out our list of the best places to visit in December in the U.S. for a holiday vacation to some of our favorite festive finds.

All Stories

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The Panoramic-View Restaurant on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania Is a Must-Visit

Pull up a chair at this waterfront restaurant in Erie, Pennsylvania, that promises gorgeous views of the water and a delicious menu.

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The lodge at Quietude conference center in Tuftonboro, New Hampshire. A firepit sits in the forefront. The lodge is set against a backdrop of trees.

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My Winter Travel Gear Favorites as a Southerner Who Loves the Arctic

The Best Winter Travel Gear

1. Winter Jackets

2. Winter Pants

3. Traction Cleats

4. Winter Hats

5. Winter Scarf

6. Winter Gloves

7. Fleece-lined Leggings

8. Winter Boots

9. Layers

10. Socks

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Here Are the 15 Absolute Best Places to Visit in January Across the United States

Best Places to Visit in The USA In January

Best Attractions To Visit In The USA In January To Avoid Crowds

Best Places To Visit In The U.S. In January For Outdoor Adventure

Best Places To Visit In January For Events

Best Hidden Gems to Visit in the U.S. in January

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All Stories

The Panoramic-View Restaurant on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania Is a Must-Visit

If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Connecticut, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss

Hike the Port Penn Wetlands Trail in Delaware for an Unforgettable Adventure

The Remote Work Retreat Center in New Hampshire You Will Never Want to Leave

We Explored a Cave and a Waterfall Along this Easy Tennessee Hike