Top Budget-Friendly Winter Getaways in the U.S.

1. Affordable Winter Escapes

Looking for an affordable winter escape? Whether you’re dreaming of heading south to sunnier shores or hoping to hit the slopes this ski season, winter getaways can be expensive. Choosing the perfect destination is vital for saving on your next vacation. Fortunately, Hotels.com has selected these 10 destinations based on great winter activities and affordable rates, with properties boasting excellent prices in each location. Many of these spots are conveniently located near major airports, providing opportunities to search for fantastic flight deals.

2. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston Park and George Washington Statue with snow covering the ground and trees
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Bundle up for a wintry visit to Boston. Indeed, it will be cold — expect freezing temperatures in January and February — but that means snow-covered parks and ice skating on Boston Common. Additionally, when you’re ready for a break from the chilly weather, head to one of the city’s renowned art or history museums. Hotels.com recommends The Verb Hotel, a trendy and modern establishment near Fenway Park.

3. Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado

Beaver Creek Colorado Village at Night - Dusk view at twilight of village lights and town at night in winter looking down from ski slopes.
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In many ways, Colorado serves as the ultimate winter vacation destination. World-class skiing, top-notch restaurants, and vibrant apres-ski bars, alongside stunning winter vistas, make it one of the country’s preferred cold-weather getaways. Hotels.com suggests visiting Beaver Creek and Vail, both ski towns located less than 30 minutes apart. While Vail offers varied terrain and a vibrant nightlife, Beaver Creek is ideal for families. For your stay, Hotels.com recommends The Lodge at Vail, A RockResort.

4. Orange County, California

Winter sunset in Newport Beach near the pier in Orange County, California
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Surf cities, oceanfront hotels, popular theme parks, and mild winter weather make California’s Orange County an excellent choice for travelers wanting to escape harsh winter conditions. While it might be too cool for swimming, you can still bask in beach scenery, explore nearby towns like Huntington Beach and Dana Point, and visit Disneyland, where crowds tend to be lower during January and February, except for holiday weekends. Hotels.com suggests Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa for your stay in Laguna Beach.

5. Oahu, Hawaii

View of beach cabanas at Hawaii resort
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Home to Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, numerous white-sand beaches, picturesque hikes, and more, Oahu represents an ideal getaway for travelers looking to swap chilly winter weather for pleasantly warm temperatures in the 70s. For a stay, Hotels.com suggests ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Mural of Country Legends along Broadway
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With temperatures typically hovering from just below freezing to the low 50s, Nashville can feel quite chilly in January and February. However, if you’re armed with a scarf and some hot cocoa, you’ll be well prepared to embrace the Music City. Fortunately, many of Nashville’s most iconic attractions are also indoors, such as live music in the city’s famed honky-tonks, the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the National Museum of African American Music. Hotels.com recommends Hutton Hotel in Music Row for your stay.

7. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Early morning view of lake Tahoe and mountains with ducks swimming during winter
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Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is embraced by lake and ski resorts offering diverse activities throughout the seasons. Hotels.com suggests staying at Basecamp South Lake Tahoe, conveniently located near Heavenly ski resort. Additionally, the 72-mile drive around the beautiful lake serves as one of the most stunning winter road trips in the country.

8. New York City, New York

Room at Arlo SoHo in NYC
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With enchanting holiday markets, festive shop displays, and countless twinkling lights, New York City is a wonderful destination during the winter holiday season. However, if you choose to visit after the new year, you’ll find a quieter city with significantly fewer tourists. Enjoy Broadway shows, exquisite dining experiences, unrivaled shopping opportunities, and excellent museums while potentially landing a deal on hotel accommodations. For your stay, Hotels.com recommends Arlo SoHo, conveniently located near many great shopping and dining options.

9. Austin, Texas

Restaurant at Colton House in Austin
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Regarded as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin delights music lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Expect to savor a range of tasty BBQ, Tex-Mex, and more in Austin’s vibrant dining scene, and plan some evenings dedicated to exploring the city’s famous live music venues. For your winter getaway in Austin, Hotels.com recommends the Colton House Hotel located in South Congress.

10. Miami, Florida

Pool at East Miami
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If you prefer warmer temperatures and sunshine, Miami, Florida could be your perfect destination. There’s a multitude of activities awaiting you, including strolling along iconic South Beach, exploring galleries in the Design District, or visiting nearby Everglades National Park or Biscayne National Park. For a comfortable stay, opt for East Miami as recommended by Hotels.com.

11. Charlotte, North Carolina

A walk along the lake at University Village, Charlotte, North Carolina on a bright, warm winter day.
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Located on the border of North and South Carolina, Charlotte generally enjoys mild winters with highs in the 50s. There’s a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages, from local breweries for adults to interactive children’s museums. For your stay, Hotels.com recommends Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection, which is conveniently close to many of the city’s main attractions.

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