For many, winter brings with it cold, wet conditions that tend to leave people stuck inside. Sure, if there’s snow and you’re into winter sports there are things you can do, but if fun in the sun is an option on the table, that may be more appealing. The Sun Belt region of the United States is home to many cities worth visiting during the winter to get a break from cold weather conditions.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Okay, so maybe winter weather isn’t so bad. Santa Fe, NM offers a slightly different take on winter weather. It’s not unheard of for it to be sunny and snowing at the same time, which can be quite a sight to see. There are lots of opportunities for snow sports such as skiing, ice skating, and sledding. You can warm up in one of the outdoor hot tubs featured at different spas. If you like craft beer, there’s the WinterBrew Fest in January. February offers a chance to see the Santa Fe Film Festival and taste amazing soups at the Santa Fe Souper Bowl.
Houston, Texas
If you’re looking for somewhere a little warmer, Houston, TX might be worth considering. It rarely snows, even during January, which tends to be the coldest month. If you have an interest in visiting the ranches or wineries, winter months are the best time to do so, thanks to the cooler weather. Visitors in December have an opportunity to view stunning light displays and exceptional ballets. If you want a more intellectual experience, there’s plenty of opportunities for that in Houston as well. Houston is home to several museums and cultural centers.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans has traditionally been a popular tourist destination, especially during the Carnival season, which runs from January 6 to February 16 in 2021. This year may look a little different with some krewes cancelling and pulling out of the parade celebrations due to COVID-19 concerns. Still, New Orleans has much to offer. There are museums to visit, biking in the French Quarter, and an aquarium and zoo to check out. Music is often referred to as the lifeblood of the city. Though many of the city’s over 130 live music venues are closed, you can still find street musicians busking away. You can expect to hear these often incredibly talented street artists before you see them.
Miami, Florida
With warm weather and beautiful beaches, Miami can be a great place to visit during the winter. Splurge on a helicopter ride that gives you a chance to glimpse some amazing marine wildlife along with some fantastic views. Alternatively, the Everglades are close by. Home to multiple threatened and endangered species, this federally protected land can be explored using an airboat. These boats are propelled using a giant fan in place of a motor. Between the Everglades, Atlantic Ocean, mangroves, and coral reefs, there are a plethora of fishing opportunities available as well. Make sure you have the proper permits and know the rules about what you are allowed to catch and keep before you start your fishing expedition.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas is hugely popular for its casinos, shows, and the Strip that plays host to many of the former. While you might think of Vegas as a place that tends to be swelteringly hot, during the winter it tends to cool down considerably. Visit during December to see breathtakingly extravagant holiday displays and lights. The Cosmopolitan traditionally turns its Boulevard Pool into an ice skating rink that offers both stunning views and a lot of fun. Of course, there’s Bellagio’s water show, which gets programmed to some favorite holiday songs. If you want to get out of the cold, there are always the shopping malls, indoor shows, and even a couple of outdoor shows that include fire for a warmer change of pace.
Orlando, Florida
Like Miami, Orlando, Florida offers visitors a chance to get out of the cold and into the sun. This city offers you multiple opportunities to get in touch with your inner child. There are a variety of theme parks including the favorites Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Studios Orlando. Each of these parks offer visitors a chance to experience special events for both Christmas and New Years, if you are around during that time. There are also different water parks you can visit and explore. Because the weather in Orlando tends to stay comfortably warm, you should be able to enjoy the experience, especially if you’re coming from somewhere much colder.
San Diego, California
On the other side of the country, San Diego is another Sun Belt city worth considering visiting for a winter vacation. San Diego weather tends to be fairly temperate all year long. It’s also the location of the very first SeaWorld park, which opened in 1964. If you want the chance to see a variety of animal life, SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo, and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park all offer different experiences and opportunities to visitors. Alternatively, you can book a whale watching tour for a chance to see part of a gray whale migration.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas in winter can be a magical experience and it offers something for everyone. Runners can participate in the BMW Dallas Marathon, usually (but not always) run in December. Families can enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities at the Gaylord Texan Resort. The Dallas Arboretum has a fun 12 Days of Christmas exhibit from November through January. Art lovers can peruse the halls of the Dallas Museum of Art and get a taste of the culture. If you want a magical light experience, check out the Dallas Zoo Lights Festival.
If you have an interest in a warm, sunny vacation this winter, a visit to one of the cities in the Sun Belt region of the US may be a good option for you. New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Nevada, and California are just a sampling of states with cities worth checking out. Whether you have a go-to city or want to try something new, this winter might be a good time to pay a visit.
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