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What’s better for battling the winter blahs than a change of scenery? A winter weekend away to somewhere cozy and scenic may be just what’s needed. Not every winter escape has to empty your wallet though.
These weekend getaway ideas around the country offer budget-friendly winter fun.
Bundle up and enjoy how this natural wonder looks like something out of a fairy tale during the winter, as icicles and frozen mist transform the landscape. Every night, the falls are transformed with colorful illuminations, giving everything even more of a magical look.
There’s also plenty to do at Niagara Falls that’s nice and warm indoors. Check out wildlife at Bird Kingdom, or visit the Niagara Falls History Museum. The dining scene has lots of options, with Sky Fallsview Steakhouse in particular featuring spectacular views of the falls.
Where to Stay: The Skyline Hotel
The Skyline Hotel has a reputation as family-friendly and affordable, with an onsite water park and restaurant. Winter season rooms are as low as $53 USD a night.
This scenic area a couple hours outside of Boston and a few hours from New York City is gorgeous in fall and summer, with plentiful hiking opportunities and various outdoor activities. But winter is a fantastic time to visit, thanks to affordable ski mountains, such as Butternut and Jiminy Peak. There are also ample cultural activities in the area if skiing isn’t your thing, such as the MASS MoCA and the Norman Rockwell Museum.
Where to Stay: The Yankee Inn
The Yankee Inn is surrounded by miles of stunning nature, making you feel like you’re truly away from it all. Winter rates can be found for under $100 a night.
Leave Aspen and Vail to others who love crowds and spending cash — you’ll get more for your money in Crested Butte. A four-hour drive from Denver, the area features ample opportunities for outdoor winter pursuits like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
There are plenty of cozy indoor things to do as well. Elk Avenue features a range of art galleries to wander, and there’s a large restaurant scene.
Where to Stay: Grand Lodge Studios is located at the base ski area, and offers winter rooms starting at around $120 a night.
The Adirondacks are a popular cold weather escape, with enough outdoor space and activities that you won’t feel crowded by too many people. There are 12 ski resorts in the area, and plenty of areas for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or even ice climbing if that’s your thing.
But you don’t have to be athletic to enjoy a great weekend away here. The area hosts a number of winter carnivals every season, such as the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which has been going for 120 years.
Where to Stay: There are numerous rustic options for lodging in the area, from cabins in the woods to luxe hotels. The Alpine Lodge is a popular place to stay near skiing, and offers rooms for under $200 per night.
Located 35 miles from Salt Lake City, Brighton is known for affordable, family-friendly skiing and an easy to reach locale. The area typically gets an annual snowfall average of around 500 inches, promising a winter wonderland all season long.
There are a number of restaurants on the mountain, as well as a ski store and general store for those last-minute items.
Where To Stay: The onsite Brighton Lodge offers four-day, three-night packages that include one lift ticket per guest per day.
Gatlinburg, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, is famed for being about a day’s drive from two-thirds of the U.S. population, making it a great getaway option for most Americans.
The area is packed with activities and attractions worth visiting all year round, but winter is also a worthwhile time to visit. Go skiing at Ober Mountain Ski Area, and explore beautiful decor and lights during Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Celebration. There’s also shopping and restaurants for all price ranges.
Where to Stay: Carr's Northside Cottages & Motel offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins for under $200 a night and motel rooms for under $100.
Head an hour and a half out of Atlanta to this mountain destination that is great for outdoor lovers who aren’t looking to ski. The area is filled with orchards and farm stores, as well as multiple wineries where you can sit back with a glass and gaze at the beautiful mountains.
Ellijay is the gateway to the Appalachian Trail, which means there is plenty of hiking to enjoy.
Where to Stay: Ellijay has numerous types of accommodations, such as rustic cabins, luxe hotels, and camping sites. One budget-friendly hotel worth checking out is the Forest Hills Resort, which offers cabins, hotel rooms, and lodging for groups at a range of prices.
Taos is easily reached from both Albuquerque and Santa Fe, a couple hour’s drive. For skiers, Taos Ski Valley has runs for all levels and ages. For indoor activities, visit one of the numerous art museums in the area, such as the Millicent Rogers Museum or the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House.
One unique draw in Taos are the nearby natural hot springs. Stagecoach Hot Springs and Black Rock Hot Springs, are both around 13 miles from town and are free to enjoy — just be aware clothing is optional.
Where to Stay: The historic La Dona Luz Inn is located in a quaint 200-year-old adobe that almost feels like staying in an art museum. Rooms start at $129 per night.