20 Best Places to Travel In February In The USA (You’ll Love).

Looking for the best place to travel in February? Discover sunny escapes, snowy wonders, and hidden gems that are perfect for winter getaways—with fewer crowds and great deals.

If you’re planning a travel escape in winter, one of my most personally cherished and truly standout destinations for this time of year is visiting New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s where I found seasonal scenery bursting with color and culture during Mardi Gras, offering not only beautiful energy but also better prices than peak months. While chasing sunshine, I experienced the magic of fewer crowds, which made exploring the French Quarter and enjoying live jazz feel like a dream come true. Whether you’re chasing snow elsewhere or basking in the Southern glow, this city delivers a rhythm of festivity that has become a favorite part of my travel season. I’ve loved how the historic charm pairs so effortlessly with its celebratory soul—something that makes February in New Orleans unforgettable.

1. Big Sky, Montana

When it comes to visiting the best standout destinations in winter, I always recommend Big Sky, Montana. I personally took a dreamy five day vacation here in February, and it’s been one of my all-time favorite experiences. Whether you’re chasing snow in the mountains or just escaping the chaos of everyday life, Big Sky delivers pure magic. The seasonal scenery is absolutely beautiful, the snow-covered views of the Madison Range are postcard-worthy, and with fewer crowds than the busiest season, you get to actually enjoy it all in peace.

I drove just an hour south from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and hit the legendary slopes at Big Sky Resort, where the peak snowfall in February meant perfect powder for skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing through pristine wilderness. Off the slopes, the town offered epic activities and seasonal events like Winterfest, the Best of the West Showdown, the Backcountry Film Festival, and the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival—all of which made my trip feel culturally rich as well.

With shorter lift lines, great discounts on accommodations, and an energetic but laid-back après ski scene, this mountain town feels just right for anyone craving a proper travel season getaway. Whether you’re chasing sunshine elsewhere or diving into the snowy side of life, Big Sky hits the perfect balance.

Visitors’ Center Address: 88 Ousel Falls Rd, Big Sky, MT
Phone: 406-995-3000
Map Location
Average temperature: minus 10°C to 0°C

My personal highlights…

• Skiing through deep powder snow and soaking in the serenity of the trails with fewer crowds
• Unwinding at the cozy, chic Summit Hotel, with drinks at the Alpenglow bar and Scissorbills Saloon
• A rustic, upscale dining night at Horn and Cantle, where the cedar plank mushrooms in their log-cabin restaurant blew my mind
• Exploring the lively Big Sky Town Center for local eats, vibes, and great people
• Feeling like I’d discovered one of the world’s most unique places—off the radar, yet unforgettable

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you’re looking for a Southern city that knows how to turn up the energy in February, New Orleans, Louisiana delivers like no other. I had been hearing about the buzz for years, so I finally flew into New Orleans (MSY) for a proper four days of adventure — and it was everything I imagined and more. The city comes alive during Mardi Gras season, with colorful parades, costumed party-goers, and nonstop dancing filling the streets of the French Quarter, wrapped in a festive atmosphere that feels absolutely electric.

From the wild chaos of Krewe du Vieux to the glittering floats of Krewe of Muses, I felt completely immersed in its rich cultural heritage. I even caught the Vietnamese New Year celebration at Tet Fest, and the night of Super Bowl LIX near the Caesars Superdome was surreal — music, food, and strangers celebrating like a family.

The mild winter weather made everything comfortable, and the air was laced with jazz and powdered sugar from every direction. I walked Frenchmen Street, soaked up the rhythm of live bands, and couldn’t resist the iconic king cake (I actually got the tiny baby figurine, which means I host next year, right?).

My stay at the romantic, boutique Hotel Monteleone was unforgettable. The unique rotating bar, heated rooftop pool, and the deeply opulent decor made it the perfect base for a weekend couple’s break. Every detail felt like a blend of indulgence and charm.

Food? Out of this world. I devoured classic Creole dishes at Commander’s Palace and paired it with a perfect beignet-coffee combo from Café du Monde. It was honestly one of the most flavorful trips I’ve ever had.

Visitors’ Center Address: 339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Map Location
Average temperature: 18°C to 20°C

3. Mendocino, Northern California

Nestled along the rugged Pacific coastline, Mendocino, Northern California is a charming coastal village that feels like it was built for a slow, romantic February escape. The cool weather and fewer crowds gave it a peaceful, intimate energy, with a local vibe I instantly connected with. I took a scenic three hour drive up from San Francisco and spent four days completely unplugged, enjoying the foggy cliffs, cozy inns, and that soft winter quiet that made it ideal for a Valentine’s getaway.

From watching the grey giants during whale-watching season at Mendocino Headlands State Park to wandering the romantic cliffside paths of this historic village, everything felt timeless. I explored the misty redwood forest at Russian Gulch State Park, admired cute shops and art galleries on Main Street, some dating back to the 1960s, and even caught the Mendocino County Wine & Beer Festival—a celebration of regional flavors that paired perfectly with the crisp air.

One highlight was hopping aboard one of California’s historic rail tours—the Skunk Train, where I passed through Tunnel #2, a hand-carved marvel from the 1890s, with views I’ll never forget.

Beaches like Big River Beach and Van Damme State Beach were calm and uncrowded, offering time to explore tide pools and hidden sea caves that felt like private discoveries.

Visitors’ Center Address: Ford House Visitor Center & Museum, 45035 Main Street, Mendocino, CA 95460
Map Location
Average temperature: 13°C to 16°C

4. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas is a vibrant, historic city that becomes a perfect escape in February, especially for travelers looking to avoid harsh Texan summers. I spent a long weekend here and loved the warm, comfortable temperatures paired with less humidity and noticeably fewer crowds, which made exploring feel easy and relaxed. The city was buzzing with awesome events like the Bud Light Mardi Gras Festival, the lively River Parade floating down the iconic River Walk, and the fun-packed Cupid 5K Chase.

I flew into San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and settled near the heart of the city, starting each day with a peaceful walk to the Alamo and the Spanish Missions. The food scene was a highlight—think sizzling Tex-Mex at the colorful Historic Market Square, hopping between quirky cafes, excellent restaurants, and interesting shops that lined the streets like an open-air gallery.

Where I stayed made the trip even more memorable—Mokara Hotel & Spa offered an award-winning spa, a heated rooftop swimming pool, a relaxing hot tub, and sweeping river views that felt like a movie set.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 18°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Dining at the trendy Mexican restaurant, Iron Cactus on the Riverwalk, and devouring their spicy Chile Con Queso
• Getting amazing discounts on accommodation, which let me splurge a bit more on food and experiences
• Feeling recharged after a few days in a city that blends history, culture, and comfort so effortlessly

5. Death Valley, California

Death Valley, California in February completely shifted my view of desert travel—it’s not only much safer than the scorching summer heat, but also surprisingly pleasant with mild temperatures and comfortably cool weather that made every effort to explore and hike worthwhile. I did a four hours drive from Los Angeles and spent a unique three days uncovering the most surreal landscapes I’ve ever seen.

This season offers fewer crowds compared to the spring season, and the crisp winter light made photography a dream. I saw early wildflowers begin to bloom, and one of the best surprises was the Dark Sky Festival, where I joined NASA-led science talks, astrophotography workshops, and quiet stargazing sessions under clear skies with no light pollution—the Milky Way was unreal.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA 92328
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperatures: 18°C to 24°C

My personal highlights…

• Hiking through Golden Canyon and Mosaic Canyon, where the textures and silence made it feel like walking through another planet
• Standing on the salt flats of Badwater Basin, then soaking in the panoramic views at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View
• Experiencing true star gazing for the first time—something I’ll never forget

6. Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California is the kind of funky desert city that transforms your entire mood in February, making it the perfect winter escape for anyone craving sun, Vitamin D, and a break from the winter blues. I took an hour and 40 minutes drive from Los Angeles and spent four days soaking up the warm weather, sunny skies, and that irresistible retro-chic resort vibe the city is known for.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or heading out for outdoor adventures, everything here feels vibrant and alive. I explored mid-century homes, wandered scenic trails in Indian Canyons, and even made it up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the snow-dusted Mount San Jacinto for incredible views.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 2901 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 21°C to 24°C

My personal highlights…

• Attending Modernism Week, an awesome event full of color, architecture, and nostalgia
• Relaxing at Spa La Quinta with a Cucumber and Melon Body Therapy session that was pure bliss
• Staying at ARRIVE Hotel, where the boutique vibe, funky decor, fire pits, hot tub, and large outdoor swimming pool made it hard to leave
• Visiting Coachella Valley Certified Farmers Markets and tasting olive oil from Branch and Vine and fresh mushrooms from Canyon Creek Mushrooms
• Enjoying fewer crowds than March or April, which made the experience feel more personal and peaceful

7. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

If you’re planning a luxurious winter getaway, Vail Ski Resort, Colorado is a world-renowned alpine resort that delivers in every way during February. I took a flight into Denver International Airport (DEN), drove two hours west, and settled in for a four day break that exceeded every expectation. The peak snow conditions created a pristine snowpack across the slopes, and the legendary terrain—from glades and groomers to wide bowls, especially the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin—felt like a skier’s dream with stable conditions and nonstop runs.

What really stood out was the fresh crisp mountain air, the alpine village atmosphere, and evenings spent by a cozy fireside, which made it more than just a ski trip—it was a truly awesome choice for a luxurious winter escape. The local après-ski culture was full of energy. I sipped craft cocktails at The Remedy Bar, caught live music at Shakedown Bar, and dined at the chic Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa Vail, where the Cucumber Sunomono was light, refreshing, and unforgettable.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: Vail Welcome Center, 241 South Frontage Rd., Suite 8150, Vail, CO 81657
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: minus 4°C to 2°C

My personal highlights…

• Taking the scenic gondola ride up to Eagle’s Nest for jaw-dropping views
• Relaxing at the Spa at Vail Mountain, where every treatment felt custom-tailored to melt the chill away
• Cheering at the Vail Mountain Winter Uphill Race and enjoying the heritage vibes during Vail Legacy Weekend

8. The Keys, Florida

If you’re craving a cold winter escape that feels like pure paradise, The Keys, Florida is a dream come true in February—a quieter month that falls just after the peak months of December and January, bringing fewer crowds and some amazing off-peak deals on accommodation. I took a four hours drive from Miami and spent a week-long vacation island-hopping along this 125-mile-long chain of tropical islands, soaking in the warm weather, little rainfall, and laid-back tropical vibes that make this place so unforgettable.

Every day felt like a sunny vacation. I snorkeled the vibrant coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, kayaked through serene mangroves in Big Pine Key, and ended evenings with waterfront dining, glowing sunsets, and live sets from local artists at live music events like the Key West Art & Craft Festival.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 106240 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 24°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

• Visiting Mallory Square in Key West for the nightly sunset celebration and heading to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where I met a real six-toed cat
• Staying at Bungalows Key Largo with its holistic wellness spa, private veranda, soaking tub, and a dreamy outdoor garden shower
• Enjoying Caribbean-inspired dishes at the iconic Schooner Wharf Bar and Turtle Kraals along the Historic Seaport Boardwalk

9. Leavenworth, Washington

For a winter weekend that feels like stepping into a snow globe, Leavenworth, Washington is a charming, Bavarian-style village that becomes an enchanting winter wonderland in February, perfect for romantic getaways and snowy outdoor adventures. I took a 2.5-hours drive from Seattle and was welcomed by snow-covered buildings, twinkling lights, and breathtaking alpine scenery that felt lifted from a European postcard.

The village glows with celebration during the Valentine’s Day getaway season, offering fewer crowds, cozy fires, and excellent off-peak deals on upscale spas and gourmet dining. Events like the Village of Lights Christmastown (with half a million lights shining since Thanksgiving), the Skirennen Nordic Race, and other Valentine’s Day celebrations made the whole town feel alive with winter cheer.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperatures: 0°C to 5°C

My personal highlights…

• Sledding at Front Street Park, snowshoeing and skiing the peaceful Icicle River Trails
• Sipping mulled wine at Rhein Haus, surrounded by warm laughter and a romantic alpine atmosphere
• Admiring the alpine architecture, relaxing in cozy bars, and ending the night with a rich wild mushroom risotto at the Watershed Café

10. Hot Springs, North Carolina

If you’re after a peaceful mountain retreat in February, Hot Springs, North Carolina is the kind of place that heals the soul—its thermal springs are naturally rejuvenating, especially when soaked under chilly winter air with steam rising from the outdoor hot tubs. I flew into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and stayed for a three day break filled with slow mornings, quiet trails, and the kind of mountain charm you don’t stumble across often.

The Appalachian Mountains and the flowing French Broad River offer a setting that’s both scenic and calming, perfect for peaceful winter hikes with absolutely no crowds. One afternoon I followed the snowy Appalachian Trail to Lover’s Leap, then returned to the Hot Springs Resort & Spa for a long soak in the steaming mineral tubs, followed by a cozy dinner of comfort food and live music at Iron Horse Station.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 106 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 8°C to 12°C

My personal highlights…

• Joining early morning yoga and meditation sessions at Laughing Heart Lodge, where the setting alone cleared my mind
• Experiencing a Signature Mineral Bath in a private cabana-style deck, surrounded by mist and silence
• Making the most of accommodation discounts and being part of the Valentine’s celebrations and Winter Romance specials

11. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada becomes a stunning natural masterpiece in February, when cooler temperatures and soft winter sun reveal the beauty of its red Aztec sandstone formations without the discomfort of the extremely hot summer months. I spent two days exploring this fiery playground just an hour northeast of Las Vegas, and I was blown away by the dramatic shadows cast across the fiery red rock, making each view of the desert scenery more photogenic than the last.

The park was peaceful with no crowds, and felt comfortable, mild, and incredibly safer to hike through compared to the heat of other seasons. Trails like Rainbow Vista, Pink Canyon, and White Domes revealed brilliant tones in the colorful sandstone, while formations like the Fire Wave, Elephant Rock, Seven Sisters, Fire Cave, and Beehives offered some of the most iconic sights I’ve seen in the desert.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: Valley of Fire Visitor Center, Overton, NV 89040
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperatures: 15°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Joining a guided hike on the February Hike of the Month, timed with a new moon, along the Seven Wonders Loop on one of the Wednesdays—a surreal experience under the stars
• Attending the Valley of Fire Regional Photography Event, where even amateur shots looked like magazine covers
• Spotting wildlife like desert bighorn sheep and quick-footed desert spiny lizards scurrying across the desert floor

12. Alta, Utah

If you’re looking for deep snow, stunning views, and an authentic ski experience in February, Alta, Utah is a historic mountain town that combines fresh powder, a deep snowpack, and dramatically scenic terrain with a no-frills, welcoming mountain town atmosphere. Just a 40 minutes drive from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), I spent an active four days skiing High Rustler, exploring the quiet beauty of Albion Basin, and relaxing in the simple charm of a place that offers world-class skiing conditions without the fuss.

The brilliant white snow, less ice, and bright blue skies made each run down the slopes feel smooth and exhilarating, and I appreciated the fewer crowds compared to the peak months of December and January, along with the incredibly reasonable prices that made it even sweeter.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 10351 UT-210, Alta, UT 84092
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: minus 3°C to 2°C

My personal highlights…

• Joining the Valentine’s heART Market and chatting with local artists
• Going on a Snowshoe with a Naturalist hike and learning fascinating things about the alpine ecosystem
• Taking part in the Trees and Skis tour and Ski with a Ranger program—perfect for mixing education with adventure
• Ending each day with gingerbread hot chocolate and Salted Caramel Pretzel Sticks from Hatch Family Chocolates, the perfect post-slope indulgence

13. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming transforms into an iconic winter wonderland in February, where snow-covered landscapes, frosty air, and steaming geysers create a surreal setting that feels untouched and almost sacred. I flew into Jackson Hole Airport, joined a snow coach group, and spent four days exploring the park’s remote, frozen beauty, soaking in views of Old Faithful erupting against a snowy backdrop, and the peaceful calm of Mammoth Hot Springs wrapped in mist.

With roads and many hiking trails inaccessible, most of my time was spent on guided snowshoe hikes, cross-country skiing, and snowmobile tours, which made each area feel more intimate and immersive. The silence of the Lamar Valley was only broken by glimpses of bison and wolves as they moved through the snow to forage for food, making for some unforgettable moments and powerful photography opportunities in the soft winter light.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: Grand Loop Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 0 to -15 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Watching frosty steam rise from geysers at sunrise felt truly magical
• Taking in the picturesque scenery on a snow coach tour through vast white silence
• Experiencing a truly peaceful, crowd-free national park—something that’s hard to find elsewhere

14. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona is one of the most overlooked places to explore in February, when the cooler temperatures and open roads create ideal conditions for long hikes through a vibrant desert landscape without the pressure of intense heat or tourist crowds. Just two hours from Flagstaff, I was captivated by the park’s surreal beauty, especially along the Blue Mesa Trail, where rainbow-hued badlands rise like painted waves from the ground.

What stood out most were the peaceful walks past glistening petrified logs in Crystal Forest, viewing ancient petroglyphs at Puerco Pueblo, and joining ranger-led adventures into the Painted Desert, a region of astonishing colorful badlands. The whole park felt still, open, and welcoming—a rare find for such a powerful landscape.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 1 Park Rd, Petrified Forest National Park, AZ 86028
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Visiting the Rainbow Forest Museum and seeing real fossils from the Late Triassic period
• Snapping photos at the visitor center, where exhibits gave fascinating context before hitting the trails
• Driving along the historic Route 66, which literally cuts through the park, adding a legendary touch to the journey

15. Kirkwood, California

Kirkwood, California is a hidden gem for those craving a high-energy winter short break in February, especially if you’re into serious skiing, snowboarding, and wide scenic bowls tucked into a scenic mountain town. I flew into Reno-Tahoe International Airport, drove just 1 hour 45 minutes, and spent a thrilling three days at Kirkwood Mountain Resort, where the deepest powder and challenging terrain made every run feel like a reward.

This high-elevation resort has a laid-back vibe, feels uncrowded, and is one of the most affordable ski resorts I’ve visited without sacrificing quality. Beyond the slopes, the Après-Ski scene was buzzing—grabbing a bite at Cornice Grille or relaxing with a drink at The Wall Bar made for the perfect evening wind-down.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 1501 Kirkwood Meadows Drive, CA 95646
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: minus 4°C to 4°C

My personal highlights…

• Watching pros dominate The Wall and The Cirque
• Enjoying peaceful snowshoeing trails in Kirkwood Meadow
• Catching the IFSA 2* Qualifier Collegiate and IFSA Junior 3* competition, where snowboarders pulled off wild tricks, flips, spins, and grabs on the quarter pipe

16. San Diego, California

San Diego, California is the kind of sunny city that makes you forget it’s still winter elsewhere—an ideal escape in February when you’re tired of gloomy weather and craving vitamin D. Nestled in south California near the Mexican border, the city blends rich Mexican and Hispanic influences with a laid back vibe, offering everything from gorgeous beaches and sandy beaches to year-round sunshine and a mild climate that’s perfect for casual exploration.

What stood out to me was how quieter it felt compared to peak months, allowing me to enjoy the local vibe, score solid discounts on accommodation, and explore without crowds.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 10°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

• Visiting family-friendly parks and dog-friendly beaches, wandering eclectic neighborhoods filled with cool restaurants and vibrant bars
• Discovering culture in the Gaslamp Quarter, strolling through Old Town, and finding peace at the Japanese Friendship Garden, museums, art galleries, and botanical gardens
• Taking a romantic sunset boat tour with Sail San Diego, followed by a rejuvenating Korean Massage at Aqua Day Spa
• Hiking Torrey Pines State Park and standing in awe of the sweeping panoramic views

17. Magic Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont

Magic Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont offers a relaxed, intimate ski experience that feels worlds away from commercial crowds, especially in February when the best snow conditions hit this picturesque, snowy spot in Londonderry. Known for its laid-back, local vibe and true-to-roots classic skiing, Magic is perfect for families, advanced skiers, or anyone seeking value, with affordable prices, mid-season accommodation deals, and challenging runs across Glebe Mountain’s steep trails, narrow trails, and expert-level glade skiing.

What makes it really unique is its 1,500-foot vertical drop that delivers serious thrill without the pressure of big-resort chaos. I spent the afternoons enjoying the après-ski scene, catching live music at Black Line Tavern, and ending my days with upscale dining at Red Slate Restaurant and Bar.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 495 Magic Mountain Access, Londonderry, VT 05148
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: minus 6°C to minus 1°C

My personal highlights…

• Trying uphill skiing for the first time using skins, and learning how they prevent backsliding on the climb
• Carving fresh lines through untouched powder while soaking in scenic views that never got old
• Appreciating how quiet and authentic everything felt, like skiing how it used to be

18. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia—often called Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon—is a stunning destination that comes alive in February, when comfortable weather replaces the brutal summer heat that can soar past 35°C. Tucked in southwest Georgia, this protected scenery spans over 1,000 acres of jaw-dropping geological formations, with colorful ravines and colorful canyons spread across 16 canyons, making it a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone chasing peace with a view.

I explored the Canyon Loop Trail, home to the best viewpoints, and then took the Backcountry Trail deep into the rugged terrain, stopping for some well-earned rest at a rustic campsite along the Providence Canyon backcountry trail, where I met friendly owners who shared stories about the land’s history.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 8930 Canyon Rd., Lumpkin, GA 31815
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: -13°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Enjoying the pleasant conditions and fewer crowds, which made every step on the hiking trails feel like a private discovery
• Finding abandoned car wrecks from the 1950s, left behind as oddly quirky features scattered across the landscape
• Capturing dramatic moments through my lens—the light in the canyon this time of year is a dream for photography

19. St Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida is an elegant gem on the northeastern coast and the oldest historic city in the U.S., founded in 1565. In February, this destination offers a romantic vibe, mild weather, around 8 hours of sunshine, and less humidity, making it the perfect off-season getaway with better rates and far fewer crowds of tourists. I spent my time strolling through its Spanish heritage, visiting historic landmarks, and relaxing on its gorgeous beaches, all while soaking up its laid-back charm.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 10 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 18°C to 21°C

My personal highlights…

• Attending the Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series, catching pirate-themed fun at the Old City Pirate Fest, and sipping fine vintages during the St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival
• Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, climbing the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, and tasting wine at the San Sebastian Winery
• Taking a nighttime ghost tour, walking St George Street filled with independent shops, fine restaurants, and art galleries, and diving into history at the Oldest House Museum
• Visiting Ponce de Leon’s Spring at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, a quirky yet iconic spot that really defines the city’s historic magic

20. Table Rock State Park, South Carolina

Table Rock State Park, South Carolina is a quieter park that shines in February, offering a peaceful escape into the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern South Carolina where crisp air, fewer crowds, and a cozy winter vibe welcome hikers and nature lovers alike. Known as a lesser-known treasure, it’s the perfect setting for long hikes through natural scenery, where granite cliffs, picturesque lakes, and cascading waterfalls lead toward the state’s tallest mountain.

I spent my weekend exploring the Table Rock Trail and Pinnacle Mountain Trail, both surrounded by lush forests, quiet stream crossings, and stunning viewpoints that eventually open up to a rewarding summit.

📍 Visitors’ Center Address: 158 E. Ellison Lane, Pickens, SC 29671
📌 Map Location
🌡️ Average temperature: 10°C to 16°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying in one of the historic log cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, complete with roaring fires and a feeling of seclusion
• Enjoying scenic drives along winding roads lined with picturesque hiking trails
• Taking a romantic Valentine’s break surrounded by pristine beauty, all without the buzz of mosquitoes or the pressure of high summer temperatures