Whether you’re looking to hit the ski slopes or lounge on the beach, there are lots of awesome destinations to visit in February without having to cross the Atlantic. Here are our favorite North American travel destinations for February.
1. Banff, Alberta
Banff is one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada, boasting the impossibly turquoise Lake Louise, breathtaking mountain scenery, epic skiing and hiking trails, wildlife, and picturesque lodges. It is the perfect destination from the U.S. if you are craving a Swiss-style skiing vacation. In February, Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village offer skiers over 8,000 acres of terrain with everything from super-wide groomers to mogul thrill rides.
2. Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill is a unique destination. It’s basically in the middle of nowhere on the sub-Arctic tundra, situated on the edge of the Hudson Bay. It is not easy to get to, which makes it expensive. February is the best time to see the northern lights. Other once-in-a-lifetime experiences worth the hefty price tag include seeing the beluga whales and polar bears in their natural habitat.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
If you are looking for one of the best places to visit this winter that offers great weather, food, and entertainment, it is hard to beat New Orleans. The main draw in February is the epic Mardi Gras celebrations, often called "the greatest free show on earth." If big crowds are not your thing, there are endless things to do in New Orleans. Bars and restaurants on Frenchman Street offer live jazz in a cozier setting, while Jackson Square provides for excellent people watching.
4. Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is best known for having hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games. Visitors flock to here for downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling through the wilderness on groomed trails along the lake.
Speaking of great skiing, Colorado is another part of North America with great skiing in February.
5. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs’ weather is in the perfect mid-70s in February. Although many visitors come to Palm Springs to sit by the pool with a cocktail in hand, Palm Springs offers so much more. Enjoy early morning hikes, a round of golf and an electric food and drinks scene.
6. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s capital has a rich history, diverse culture, delicious food, beautiful beaches and resorts that offer everything a visitor could want. Well-recovered from the devastating 2017 hurricanes, Puerto Rico is welcoming tourists with renovated hotels and restaurants along with its traditional attractions.
7. Maui, Hawaii
February is an especially good time of the year to visit the Aloha State. It’s the cheapest time of the year for airfare and hotels, making a budget vacation within reason. Maui offers travelers endless outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and delicious food and drinks. For nature lovers, February is peak humpback whale-watching season.
8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
February is arguably the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, one of Mexico's premier beach towns. The weather is perfect — mid-70s and 80s on average — and hordes of spring breakers have yet to descend, giving you a little more room to breathe than you'd get in March.
Summary:
Explore the top winter destinations in North America for February, where you can either embrace the snowy slopes or bask in the coastal sun. These eight captivating locales offer a diverse range of experiences, all without needing to journey across the Atlantic. From the stunning landscapes of Banff, Alberta, to the cultural gems of New Orleans, February in North America promises an array of unforgettable adventures for every traveler.
