The Best Winter Weekend Getaways for Friends or Couples
Written by: Cora Gold
Whether you love or hate the winter season, it's easy to spend colder months snuggled up by the fire with your favorite blanket. While these relaxing days indoors are great, they can get old. A whole world of sandy beaches, snowy thrills and new activities are waiting for you, so grab your favorite people and hit the road!
Make the most of your winter season by exploring the best weekend getaway destinations in the United States.
Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort
Are you looking to embrace winter fun? If you and your friends are looking for a weekend full of chilly, action-packed activities, Heavenly Mountain Resort is the place for you. Located in Lake Tahoe, California, this resort offers 4,800 acres of off-the-grid terrain to explore.
The lodges at Heavenly Mountain Resort give you beautiful views of California and Nevada. You can enjoy mountain sports, races, special music, arts events and great food. The resort accommodates all ski levels, from beginner to expert. If your group is feeling brave, check out the 1,600 food plunges in double-black-diamond canyons.
2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
If you're planning a weekend getaway to truly "get away" from the cold, Florida is the perfect place to go. With over 70 nautical square miles to explore, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park can clear your winter blues. For a combination of warmth and excitement, visit the first undersea park in the U.S.
You and your significant other can experience the beauty of close-up coral reefs for the first time with a romantic glass-bottom boat tour or dive right in with a scuba diving or snorkeling session. If you're looking for some activity, you can walk trails, canoe and kayak through the park's waters, and go for a swim at the beach — the opportunities are endless.
3. Ogunquit, Maine
Whether you celebrate Christmas or simply enjoy the jolly vibe, visiting a Christmas town can be a great way to enjoy the spirit of the winter season. For a unique holiday experience, visit Ogunquit, which combines quaint sandy beaches with the ultimate Santa celebration.
Each December, the town holds a Christmas by the Sea festival with beautiful tree and bridge lights, concerts, art shows, a bonfire on the beach and so much more. Ogunquit is the perfect weekend getaway for the winter season. Plus — you can get all your holiday shopping done!
4. Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Is your significant other a nature lover? If so, they will love Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. Located in Atlanta, the park offers gorgeous Georgia views and a wide variety of nature, wildlife, trees and other flora. From intense hikes to tranquil trails, Cascade Springs has it all.
Cascade Springs is also an excellent place for history fans. You can visit the park's historic springhouse or return to the woods to observe the area's remnants of Civil War battles. The park is close to downtown, giving you access to even more fascinating Atlanta spots, like the famous Zoo Atlanta and the Atlanta History Center.
5. Estes Park, Colorado
To spice up your winter, plan a romantic weekend getaway in Estes Park — the perfect place to relax and enjoy your partner’s company. Estes Park sits at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, overlooking scenic pine trees, rivers and mountainsides. The town is built for couples, with romantic hotels, cozy cabins and peaceful outdoor activities to experience together. Find your weekend home in Estes Park to make this winter special.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston has it all — from beautiful beaches to winter wine festivals, your friend group will love the variety this city has to offer. Average December temperatures range from 44 to 65 degrees, providing mild temperatures perfect for city strolls and sweatshirt weather.
Winter is the best time to visit Charleston, as there are fewer summer tourists, giving you more freedom to explore the fantastic restaurants, attractions and beaches on your own time. Grab your friends and head to Charleston to explore the city's prettiest historic streets and beach town scenery.
7. Pocono Mountains
Embrace the cold in the heart of Pennsylvania for exciting winter activities and small-town charm. If you're a winter sports fan, this is the place for you. With over 185 trails spread throughout the snowy mountains, you can hit all your favorites — ice skating, snowboarding, tubing and more.
Looking for unique winter experiences? You and your significant other can hop on a dog sled, ride a sleigh or go cross-country skiing. There are plenty of places to stay in the Poconos, from cozy cabins to couples resorts and everything in between. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try glamping for the weekend!
8. The French Quarter, New Orleans
If your winter could use a little magic, grab your loved one and take a trip to the French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré. The Quarter is considered the Crown Jewel of New Orleans — and for good reason. You can explore historic neighborhoods, grab some holiday gifts at the reimagined French Market, and visit unique restaurants.
The holiday season is one of the most spectacular times to experience the French Quarter. You can join in on Christmas caroling in the famous Jackson Square or listen to a holiday concert at St. Augustine Church. The many attractions of the Vieux Carré are yours to discover.
Make the Most of This Winter Season
The holiday season is approaching, so get out your monthly planner and pick a weekend for your perfect winter getaway. Whether you're looking for sunny destinations or frosty mountains, this list has something for you.