February is the shortest month of the year. And honestly, it can feel like the coldest and darkest too. But it doesn’t have to be. Instead consider taking a trip to bring light, warmth, and fun to your February days.
The US has tons of fabulous places to shake off the February blues. This list of best places to travel in February has exactly what you’re looking for.
Do you want to hit the slopes in a winter wonderland? Try Lake Tahoe, Taos, or Vail. Or melt away the images of snow in warm destinations like Puerto Rico or Miami. But if you’re just looking to party, then New Orleans and Mardi Gras is the place for you.
Here’s my list of 15 Best places to travel in February (in USA).
1. Big Island Hawaii
Just about any time of year, the Big Island has stellar weather, and February is no different.
Here, highs reach into the lower 80s so you’ll totally melt away those winter blues.
That’s why Big Island is definitely one of the best warm places to visit in February.
February is a perfect time for getting outdoors and enjoying everything Big Island has to offer. You can go for a hike, watch for whales, and snorkel on the Kona coast.
2. Los Angeles
Typically LA sees temperatures hitting the upper 60s in February. Not too shabby when you’re escaping winter weather elsewhere.
Some days it can even get into the 80s. Most importantly, the sun is usually shining in LA in February.
This gorgeous weather makes it ideal to get out into the city and explore all the things the city has to offer.
Be sure not to miss the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, shopping on Rodeo Drive, or a day of fun at Disneyland.
Read my list of best day trips from LA.
READ MORE: 25 Fun Road Trips from Los Angeles
Santa Monica Pier at sunset
3. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is one of the best places to travel in February if you’re looking to explore the great outdoors.
During February you’ll find temperatures getting up into the 60s which is nice when hiking through the park. You’ll also see that there are fewer visitors to Big Bend.
Remember to come prepared and dress in layers. Elevation changes means temperatures vary greatly too.
Check out my list of the best hikes in Big Bend, choose from desert, riverside, or mountain hikes.
Big Bend is also on my list of Best Weekend Getaways in Texas.
Big Bend in February is ideal because it’s usually perfect weather for hiking, stargazing, and enjoying the outdoors
4. Fort Lauderdale
You can’t beat February weather where the sun is shining and the temps get up into the high 70s. Better yet, the water is a pleasant 74 degrees.
That’s why Fort Lauderdale is definitely one of the best warm places to travel in February.
Since Fort Lauderdale is so spectacularly nice in February, it’s also one of the peak month to visit. Just make sure to make plans ahead of time and you’ll be fine.
5. Phoenix
The weather in Phoenix is so stellar in February, it’s like everyone wants to be outdoors. Lucky for you this means that the city is full of festivals and events throughout the month.
From the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest to the Street Eats Food Truck Festival, there’s something for everyone in Phoenix.
In February temps normally reach up into the 70s and dip into the 40s at night. So it’s best to dress in layers, but then you’re set.
When you want to get out and explore more, there’s no shortage of day trips and fun weekend getaways from Phoenix.
Also be sure to check out my list of ten best free things to do in Phoenix. Enjoy!
Visit Phoenix and hike the trails at Camelback Mountain
6. Miami Beach
If you’re looking to visit Miami in late winter or early spring, consider setting a date in February.
During this time you’ll still have awesome weather but you’re more likely to miss the crowds of spring breakers.
Both the air and water temperatures are in the mid-70s making a beach day totally worth the trip in February.
Off the sand, you’ll love exploring the city outdoors during the day and at night.
Miami Beach in February is perfect for escaping cold winter weather for vacation time at the beach
7. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland in February.
Located on the California/Nevada border it has so much to do in the winter.
Large snow falls give way to incredible skiing at Heavenly Mountain. You can also go snowshoeing or snowmobiling too.
Fishing on the lake is fun any time of year.
If you want to get out of the cold a bit try your luck at Harrah’s casino on the Nevada state side of the lake.
8. Kauai Hawaii
Kauai is a great destination for your February vacation.
Weather during the month normally reaches the low 70s and the water temp is always an average 76 degrees. So you don’t have to worry, water sports in Kauai are a go in February.
The weather is also perfect for hiking on Kauai. Definitely check out the Nâ Pali coast and Waimea Canyon State Park.
A winter vacation to Kauai is not a bad idea!
9. New Orleans
New Orleans is the place to be in February. Why? Mardi Gras!
This celebration typically happens during the month of February. With parades, second lines, and parties that spill out onto the street, New Orleans is the place to be if you’re looking for fun.
If your trip doesn’t align perfectly with Fat Tuesday, don’t worry. The city is alive with parties and festivities just about any day of the month.
Staying in NOLA longer? Read my list of Best Day Trips from New Orleans.
Visit New Orleans in February for lots of fun and decent weather
10. Taos New Mexico
Get up into the majestic mountains of New Mexico for some stellar skiing. Taos Ski Valley has over 300 inches of snowfall, making the trails perfect for shredding.
Beyond the skis, Taos is perfect for snowshoeing and ice skating. When off the slopes, relax your muscles in one of the nearby natural hot springs.
You can also learn the history of Taos at the San Francisco de Asis Church.
The Taos Pueblo is a major attraction too but it’s typically closed most of February and March each year. You can check Taos Pueblo events page for opening hours and special events.
11. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a perfect getaway destination throughout the winter including February.
With temperatures in the 80s Palm Springs is no doubt one of the best warm places to travel in February.
It’s ideal for anyone looking to escape the winter blues and soak in the sun’s vitamin D.
In Palm Springs you can recharge in a natural spring, hike through nature, and eat at any of the fabulous restaurants in town.
Still want to see some snow? Take a ride on the tram from desert to mountaintop at Mt San Jacinto State Park and enjoy lunch with a fabulous view, and possibly some snow too!
Read my list of Best Day Trips from Palm Springs
And check out my list of 18 Gorgeous Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert oasis and an ideal February destination for warm weather and lots of things to do
12. Puerto Rico
Consider a February trip to Puerto Rico for warmth and sunshine.
This island of sun normally has high daily temps in the 80s during the month. It’s also the time of year the island sees the least amount of rain.
So soaking up the sun is easy.
You could spend the whole time on the sandy beaches, but instead you can explore everything Puerto Rico has to offer.
Don’t pass up a visit to the Castillo San Felipe del Morro or El Yunque National Forest.
February in Puerto Rico is a great choice for a winter vacation – it’s the least rainy month and daytime temps in the 80s
13. Vail Colorado
One of the premiere ski mountains in the US, Vail is an ideal place to travel in February.
With over 190 trails and fresh powder, Vail is a skier’s dream.
This resort town is ready to welcome you after a day of skiing. With gourmet restaurants, bars specializing in Apres Ski, and spas you’ll have fun on the slope and off.
Since February is a peak time for skiing, make sure to plan ahead. You can expect large crowds, but who cares? It’s Vail!
14. San Diego
February weather is a delight in San Diego.
Cooler winter temps (normally in the mid-60s) let you get out and explore the city without intense heat.
You can spend the day at Balboa Park exploring the gardens and many museums. Or check out the hiking trails around San Diego for a stellar hike with coastal views such as Sunset Views Trail.
Although it’s not swimming weather, you can still enjoy the beaches in San Diego. There’s nothing like a walk on the beach at sunset.
Read my list of Best Day Trips from San Diego
San Diego in February has warm days perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities
15. Park City Utah
Park City is known as a fantastic place to ski in the winter and February is the peak month.
The trails are ready for you to hit the slopes as they have a solid base that’s been building up since November, the start of the season.
To add to this Park City gets some great snowfall creating powder that’s just begging you to lay your tracks on.
This is why Park City is totally one of the best wintery places to travel in February.
Summary
As you can see from this list of the best places to travel in February, the US has so many different and unique destinations. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be in for a great winter getaway in February. Now you just have to decide which one is right for you!
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