Best Places to Travel in the U.S.: Top Destinations for Every Month

I’m Alex Carter – an avid traveler and storyteller for TripFrogApp – who took Thoreau’s words to heart. Alex spent an entire year crisscrossing the United States, seeking out the best places to travel in the U.S. each month. From snow-draped mountains to sun-kissed beaches, he discovered that every month offers something special for explorers. (Fun fact: nearly 68% of trips Americans take are domestic, so there’s plenty of inspiration close to home!) Alex shares his month-by-month journey in this guide, highlighting five top U.S. destinations for January through December, plus insider tips. Whether you’re craving a winter wonderland or a summer festival, his experiences will help you plan an unforgettable year of travel. Let’s hop in and see where each month will take you on this adventurous calendar!

January – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

January in the U.S. can mean embracing winter’s chill or escaping warmer climates. It’s the heart of winter, when ski slopes are powdery and perfect, and tropical shores offer a warm refuge. From festive snow towns to sun-soaked islands, the best places to travel in January span a delightful range. Ski resorts are in full swing, and southern spots boast comfortable temperatures.

This month, snow lovers will find paradise in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Boise, Idaho. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Salt Lake City is ideal for skiing in the nearby Wasatch Mountains and cozy evenings downtown. In Boise, winter brings a crisp charm – you can hit the slopes at Bogus Basin by day and enjoy the city’s vibrant dining scene by night, making for a fun winter getaway. Here are five top U.S. destinations to consider in January:

• Breckenridge, Colorado – A charming ski town with world-class slopes and a fun aprés-ski scene.
• Key West, Florida – Tropical breezes, Key lime pie, and a quirky island vibe at the country’s southernmost point.
• Park City, Utah – Pristine snow for skiing and the excitement of the Sundance Film Festival.
• Death Valley, California – Mild winter weather is ideal for exploring otherworldly desert landscapes.
• Honolulu, Hawaii – Sunny skies, sandy beaches, and peak humpback whale watching season in Hawaiʻi.

January in Europe & the Caribbean

For a January getaway abroad, Europe’s winter magic and the Caribbean’s warmth beckon. Consider visiting Vienna, Austria, in Europe, for its elegant balls and snow-dusted imperial charm. If you prefer the sun, the Caribbean is in its prime: Cancún, Mexico (Caribbean coast), offers balmy weather and turquoise waters perfect for a mid-winter beach escape.

February – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

February may be the shortest month, but it’s big on travel experiences. It’s a month of winter festivals, romantic getaways, and pleasant climates in the south. You can revel in snowy adventures or chase early hints of spring. From Mardi Gras celebrations to serene national parks in winter, here are five of the best places to travel in February in the U.S.:

• New Orleans, Louisiana: Leading up to Fat Tuesday, it’s a lively Mardi Gras season with parades, music, and rich Creole culture.
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: A quiet winter wonderland; see geysers amid snow and watch bison and wolves in the Lamar Valley.
• San Diego, California: Mild sunny weather, perfect for coastal walks, zoo trips, and spotting gray whales migrating offshore.
• Sedona, Arizona: Cool, comfortable weather among the red rocks; a spiritual and scenic retreat without the spring crowds (Sedona’s beauty even lands it among top honeymoon spots).
• Fairbanks, Alaska: It was frigid but unforgettable, with clear, dark skies perfect for marveling at the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

February in Europe & the Caribbean

In Europe, February shines in cities like Venice and Italy, which come alive with their famous Carnival masks and costumes. Meanwhile, the Caribbean is ideal for warmth: Barbados or St. Lucia offer golden beaches and romantic vibes, perfect for a Valentine’s getaway under swaying palms.

March – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

March marks the start of spring adventures. As winter thaws, cherry blossoms and festivals bloom. It’s a transitional month where you can catch the first signs of spring in the South and West or enjoy the last snow up North. These are the five best U.S. destinations to visit in March:

• Washington, D.C. – Cherry blossom season usually begins in late March. The capital’s Tidal Basin blushes pink with blossoms, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival events kick off around this time.
• Austin, Texas – Pleasant temperatures and big events like SXSW. Live music and tech festivals take over the city, and Texas barbecue is always in season.
• Savannah, Georgia – Early spring brings azaleas in bloom. Savannah also throws one of the nation’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades, painting this historic city green with celebration. (Don’t miss Tybee Island, which is nearby for a quiet beach day – it’s one of the best beaches on the East Coast.)
• Moab, Utah – Comfortable weather for exploring Utah’s red-rock parks. Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are cooler and far less crowded than in summer, making hiking to Delicate Arch or Mesa Arch a serene experience.
• San Francisco, California – Spring showers aside, the City by the Bay is lovely in March. It’s a great time to stroll through Golden Gate Park or ferry to Alcatraz before summer tourism peaks.

March in Europe & the Caribbean

For March in Europe, head to Dublin, Ireland, where St. Patrick’s Festival creates a city-wide celebration of music and culture. In the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is a top pick – March offers sunny skies in San Juan and the rainforests, plus vibrant local festivals, all without the winter crowds.

April – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

April brings full-blown spring to most of the U.S., a time of blooming flowers, mild weather, and outdoor festivals. It’s a sweet spot for travel: warm in many places but not too hot, and summer crowds haven’t arrived.

Spring is spectacular from the foothills of Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the beaches of Naples, Florida. Pleasant temperatures in Chattanooga make it perfect for hiking around Lookout Mountain and strolling the riverfront as flowers bloom. You’ll find warm breezes and sunny skies in Naples – ideal for exploring nature preserves or relaxing by the Gulf. April’s comfortable weather means outdoor adventures and waterfront dining are in full swing in both cities. Here are five of the best U.S. destinations to explore in April:

• Charleston, South Carolina – Mild days and garden tours galore. Charleston’s historic charm is on display during the Festival of Houses and Gardens, and the azaleas and dogwoods are in full bloom around the cobblestone streets.
• Grand Canyon, Arizona – April’s moderate temperatures make it one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon. Hiking the Bright Angel Trail or riding a mule down into the canyon is more comfortable now, and the views of layered red rock are as breathtaking as ever.
• Yosemite National Park, California – Waterfalls are at their peak flow this month from the snowmelt. Yosemite Valley’s famous falls, like Yosemite and Bridalveil, roar to life in April. It’s also quieter before summer crowds, though some higher-elevation areas may still have snow.
• Texas Hill Country, Texas – A vibrant display of wildflowers blankets the Hill Country in April. Bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and other blooms line the highways and hills from Austin to Fredericksburg. It’s an ideal road trip for photography and wine tasting at local vineyards.
• Atlanta, Georgia – Comfortable spring weather and outdoor fun. Atlanta’s parks are green and inviting; Piedmont Park hosts the popular Atlanta Dogwood Festival, and you can tour sites from the 1996 Olympics or visit the Georgia Aquarium without peak-season lines.

April in Europe & the Caribbean

April is prime time in Europe for city trips: Paris, France, is especially enchanting when cherry trees bloom around landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Over in the Caribbean, consider Jamaica – April is sunny and relatively dry, great for Montego Bay beaches or enjoying Reggae beats in Kingston before the humid summer.

May – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

May ushers in warm weather and the start of summer excitement. It’s a month of transition: beaches open up, national parks in the U.S. are fully accessible, and festivals celebrate everything from music to food. Here are five top U.S. destinations for May:

• Memphis, Tennessee – It’s Memphis in May! This city-wide festival features the Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Enjoy blues music and incredible BBQ in the city that birthed rock ’n’ roll.
• Outer Banks, North Carolina – The OBX barrier islands are lovely in late spring. By May, the Outer Banks will have warm, breezy weather ideal for climbing the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or watching wild horses in Corolla. It’s before the heavy summer crowds so you can have stretches of those pristine Atlantic beaches nearly to yourself.
• Los Angeles, California – Sunny, pleasant, and buzzing with events. May in LA means comfortably warm days to enjoy Malibu beaches or hike to the Hollywood sign. Plus, it starts the Hollywood Bowl’s outdoor concert season. (Tip: Check out our guide for 10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Los Angeles for insider picks.)
• Niagara Falls, New York – Experience the raw power of Niagara Falls before peak summer crowds hit. In May, the falls thunder with spring runoff, and you can don a poncho to ride the Maid of the Mist boat close to the crashing water. Nearby, the Niagara Gorge trails reopen for hikers to explore.
• Louisville, Kentucky – Early May brings the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” The city buzzes with festivities even if you’re not there on Derby Day. By mid-month, Louisville is calmer, and you can tour bourbon distilleries or the Slugger Museum with pleasant spring temps.

May in Europe & the Caribbean

In Europe, May is ideal for a Mediterranean getaway – consider Barcelona, Spain, where the weather is warm and the city’s outdoor cafes and Gaudí architecture shine. May is a sweet spot for the Caribbean before hurricane season: Grand Cayman offers crystal-clear water for snorkeling at Stingray City and gorgeous Seven Mile Beach, all with fewer crowds than winter.

June – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

June officially starts summer, and adventure is in the air. School’s out, days are long, and almost every corner of the U.S. is ripe for exploration. It’s a fantastic month for everything from city sightseeing to mountain hikes. Alex found these five destinations especially rewarding in June:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee & North Carolina) – Early June in the Smokies brings firefly season. In a phenomenon unique to this park, synchronous fireflies light up the woods at dusk (a magical natural light show by the thousands). By day, enjoy lush green hikes to Abrams Falls or Clingmans Dome with comfortable weather.
• Chicago, Illinois – The Windy City comes alive in June. Warm days along Lake Michigan are perfect for strolling at the Navy Pier or taking an architecture river cruise. Don’t miss the Chicago Blues Festival in early June and the lively outdoor dining scene in neighborhoods like River North.
• Portland, Oregon – Roses bloom in this “City of Roses.” June is the Portland Rose Festival time, with parades and dragon boat races. The weather is mild, so it is ideal for exploring Powell’s City of Books or food truck pods downtown. Venture out to the Columbia River Gorge to see waterfalls gushing from spring rains.
• Santa Barbara, California – This elegant coastal city has sunny, mild June weather without Los Angeles’s intense heat. Relax on beautiful Pacific beaches, tour local vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley, and enjoy the Spanish architecture. In late June, the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Parade brings music and colorful costumes to State Street in a fun, artsy celebration.
• Cape May, New Jersey – One of America’s oldest seaside resorts, Cape May is charming in early summer. Victorian gingerbread houses line the streets, and the broad sandy beaches are warming up. Climb the Cape May Lighthouse, savor fresh seafood, and spot dolphins on a Delaware Bay cruise. It’s a laid-back June beach escape with Gilded Age flair.

June in Europe & the Caribbean

In Europe, June is fantastic in the far north — consider the Norwegian Fjords for the midnight sun experience, with endless daylight for cruising past dramatic cliffs and 27 Damajagua Waterfalls. The heat is rising in the Caribbean, but Aruba remains a good bet with its dry climate (outside the hurricane belt) and calm trade winds, making it pleasant for windsurfing or relaxing on Eagle Beach.

July – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

July is peak summer, a time of patriotic celebrations and outdoor adventures. Fireworks light up the skies on Independence Day, and beaches and national parks buzz with activity.

Summer on the coast beckons in Santa Cruz, California, and Kennebunkport, Maine. In Santa Cruz, you can spend long sunny days surfing and enjoying the classic beach boardwalk, then cool off among towering redwoods just minutes away. Across the country in Kennebunkport, summer means sailing trips and lobster feasts by the harbor. These seaside towns boast festive atmospheres and ocean breezes that make July an unbeatable time to visit. Alex made the most of summer by visiting these top U.S. destinations in July:

• Glacier National Park, Montana – July is when Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road typically fully opens, unveiling alpine meadows and glacial lakes accessible by car. Hike the Highline Trail for wildflowers and mountain goats, or take a boat tour on Lake McDonald. You can savor big skies and mountain views well into the evening with long daylight hours.
• Denali National Park, Alaska – Denali is unbeatable in the heart of an Alaskan summer. July offers mild temperatures and nearly 20 hours of daylight. Take a bus tour into the park to spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and the towering peak of Denali (Mt. McKinley). The tundra is green and alive with wildflowers – Alaska at its finest.
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts – This classic New England summer retreat is in full swing by July. Enjoy Cape Cod’s beautiful beaches from Falmouth to Provincetown, go whale watching off Stellwagen Bank, and eat plenty of lobster rolls. Each charming town, from artsy Provincetown to family-friendly Hyannis, offers a perfect blend of beach and culture during the Cape’s peak season.
• Seattle, Washington – Seattleites will tell you summer starts on July 5th (after the clouds break). In July, Seattle has some of the driest, sunniest weather of the year. It’s perfect for kayaking on Lake Union, browsing Pike Place Market’s bounty of summer produce, and day trips to Mount Rainier or the San Juan Islands. Don’t miss the July Fourth fireworks over Lake Union and the refreshing local ice cream bite as you wander the waterfront.
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – What better place to celebrate July than the birthplace of American independence? Philly throws a huge Wawa Welcome America festival around the 4th of July, with free concerts and a grand fireworks show over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. During the rest of July, you can explore historical icons like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell without the spring field-trip crowds, and savor a Philly cheesesteak in the summer sunshine.

July in Europe & the Caribbean

Europe in July means summer festivals: try Pamplona, Spain, for the Running of the Bulls and vibrant fiestas of San Fermín (if you’re adventurous!). If you’re craving island time, the Caribbean is warm (off-peak season). Consider Bahia de Coco, Cuba, or other northern Caribbean spots for great deals; watch early hurricane forecasts and enjoy quieter beaches and resorts.

August – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

August is the dog days of summer, hot and hazy in many parts of the country, but also the season’s last hurrah. Families take final vacations before school, and nature begins subtle preparations for fall. To beat the heat or revel in it, here are five of the best U.S. places to visit in August:

• Acadia National Park, Maine – Mild, breezy, and gorgeous. August is perfect for Acadia: hike the Ocean Path with sweeping views of the Atlantic, watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain (the first place sunlight touches in the U.S.), and feast on blueberry pancakes in Bar Harbor. Maine’s coastal weather is cooler than much of the country, making Acadia a refreshing summer refuge.
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – By August, the snows have long melted in the high Tetons, and the hiking is sublime. Jenny Lake is ideal for boating or a dip, wildflowers still sprinkle the meadows, and you can horseback ride beneath those craggy peaks. The nearby cowboy town of Jackson Hole also buzzes with summer arts festivals and rodeos.
• Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada – Crystal-clear mountain waters and outdoor fun. In August, Lake Tahoe’s beaches are in full swing – you can swim, paddleboard, or relax by the deep blue lake. Hike or mountain bike in the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains (perhaps the famed Tahoe Rim Trail), then try your luck at a casino in Stateline, NV, for some nightlife.
• Mackinac Island, Michigan – Step back on this car-free island in Lake Huron. August is peak season on Mackinac; rent a bicycle to pedal around the island’s 8-mile shoreline loop, sample the famous homemade fudge from downtown sweet shops, and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. With its Victorian architecture and horse-drawn carriages, Mackinac Island feels like a storybook come to life in summer.
• San Juan Islands, Washington – Off the coast of Washington State, August is prime time to explore the San Juan archipelago. The weather is dry and sunny, perfect for kayaking alongside orcas near San Juan Island’s Lime Kiln Point or biking around Lopez Island. Enjoy farm-to-table dining with fresh local seafood in Friday Harbor. It’s a peaceful Pacific Northwest haven with some of the best sunset vistas you’ll ever see.

August in Europe & the Caribbean

Many Europeans vacation in August, so why not join them? Edinburgh, Scotland, is a top pick this month for festival lovers—the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (the world’s largest arts festival) fills the city with theater and comedy. In the Caribbean, August is the hot, humid off-season with a chance of storms. Still, destinations like Barbados or Grenada often have carnival celebrations (Crop Over in Barbados), bringing cultural festivities that are worth the trip if you don’t mind the heat.

September – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

September is a transition month, when the summer crowds wane and autumn’s beauty creeps in. The weather is often fantastic everywhere – summer warmth lingering but with cooler evenings, especially up north. It’s one of Alex’s favorite times to explore the U.S. Here are five top destinations for September:

• Asheville, North Carolina – Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville starts to see hints of fall color by late September. It’s harvest time at nearby apple orchards, and Oktoberfest beers appear in the city’s famous craft breweries. The weather is great for driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, exploring the Biltmore Estate gardens as they transition to autumn hues, and enjoying live music at outdoor venues.
• Napa Valley, California – September is crush season in Napa. Vineyards come alive with workers picking grapes at wineries like Stag’s Leap and Castello di Amorosa. The valley smells of ripe fruit and fermenting wine. Visitors can partake in harvest stomps or enjoy the gorgeous scenery and warm days. A glass of Cabernet on a patio overlooking the vines at sunset – hard to beat! (If you’re planning a couple’s trip, Napa is also highlighted in our guide to honeymoon destinations in the USA for its romance.)
• Zion National Park, Utah – The sweltering heat of Utah summer eases up by September, making it the perfect time to hike Zion’s famed trails. The Narrows (through the Virgin River slot canyon) and Angel’s Landing are much more comfortable now. Plus, cottonwood trees along the river start turning gold later in the month. Fewer crowds than July mean you might have a sunset at Canyon Overlook almost to yourself, with sandstone cliffs glowing red.
• Boston, Massachusetts – Early fall in New England begins here. Boston in September has warm days and crisp nights, which is great for walking the Freedom Trail without summer’s humidity. The city buzzes as students return to its many colleges, giving it an energetic vibe. Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park as baseball pennant races heat up, and take a short drive to nearby Concord or New Hampshire if you want an early peek at fall foliage in late September.
• Denver, Colorado – In Colorado, September brings golden aspens lighting up the Rockies. Denver enjoys sunny, mild days – ideal for a hike in Rocky Mountain National Park (just a day trip away) or a craft beer on a downtown patio. Around the third week of September, head up to Trail Ridge Road or the Maroon Bells near Aspen to see the forests shimmer in yellow. It’s also beer festival season: the Great American Beer Festival usually taps into Denver in late September, drawing brew enthusiasts worldwide.

September in Europe & the Caribbean

For Europe, September is superb in Munich, Germany, where the famous Oktoberfest kicks off late in the month, combining Bavarian culture with lively beer tents and music. September is the heart of hurricane season in the Caribbean, so choices are tricky. One safer option is Curaçao in the southern Caribbean, typically outside the hurricane belt. It offers colorful Dutch-Caribbean architecture in Willemstad and excellent diving, all with a lower risk of storms.

October – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

October is the most picturesque month of all. Autumn is in full swing, bringing crisp air, harvest festivals, and dazzling fall foliage from coast to coast. It’s also spooky season, with Halloween events aplenty.

Autumn paints the landscapes of North Conway, New Hampshire, and Lake George, New York, in brilliant hues. In North Conway, the surrounding White Mountains come alive with fiery foliage, perfect for scenic drives in this charming New England town. Over in the Adirondacks, Lake George offers crisp air and golden forests, inviting travelers to go hiking, attend fall festivals, or soak in tranquil lakeside views. Alex’s October picks celebrate the beauty and fun of fall in the U.S.:

• Stowe, Vermont – Arguably one of the best places to see fall foliage in America. By early to mid-October, the Green Mountains around Stowe burst into reds, oranges, and yellows. Drive on Route 100 or ride the Gondola Sky Ride up Mt. Mansfield for panoramic leaf-peeping. The quaint village of Stowe offers farm-to-table dining (try some maple syrup treats) and a cozy, storybook setting amid the autumn leaves.
• Salem, Massachusetts – Nowhere does Halloween quite like historic Salem. With its infamous 17th-century witch trials, Salem embraces all things spooky in October. Tour the Witch House and Witch Museum to dive into history, then enjoy the modern-day Haunted Happenings festival with costume parades and ghost tours. The charming coastal town backdrop – complete with fall decorations and maybe a hint of sea breeze – makes the experience uniquely New England.
• Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina – October is prime time to cruise this scenic 469-mile parkway that connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Virginia section in early October and the higher elevations in North Carolina by mid-late October are painted with vibrant foliage. Overlooks along the route offer awe-inspiring vistas of layered, multicolored mountains. It’s a photographer’s dream drive.
• Albuquerque, New Mexico – The high desert has its autumn allure, and October brings the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Imagine dawns where hundreds of hot air balloons lift off in unison, speckling the sky with color – it’s an unforgettable sight against New Mexico’s sunrises. Beyond the fiesta, Albuquerque’s weather is pleasant, and you can explore Old Town or take the Sandia Peak Tramway for panoramic views.
• Sonoma County, California – In Northern California’s wine country, October means the grape harvest is complete and vineyards display shades of gold and crimson. Sonoma’s wineries (like those in Healdsburg and the Russian River Valley) host crush parties and tasting events in the comfortable autumn air. It’s less crowded than summer, so you can chat with winemakers and even help with a grape stomp. The Farm Trails Halloween pumpkin patches and corn mazes are fun if you have family.

October in Europe & the Caribbean

In Europe, set your sights on Transylvania, Romania, for a Halloween-season thrill – tour Bran Castle (often linked to the Dracula legend) amid the Carpathian Mountains’ fall colors. For a warmer escape, the Caribbean in October is shoulder season; Puerto Rico (yes, part of the U.S., but culturally a Caribbean gem) is an excellent pick with its vibrant San Juan scene and El Yunque rainforest – just be mindful of late-season tropical weather. Many Caribbean islands also start gearing up for Diwali celebrations if they have an East Indian community (as in Trinidad & Tobago), adding cultural flavor to the trip.

November – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

November in the U.S. brings a noticeable chill in many regions and the start of the holiday season. Travelers can enjoy festive events and off-peak tranquility before the December rush. Think Thanksgiving getaways, last chances for fall, or early snow fun. Here are five of the best U.S. places to visit in November:

• Las Vegas, Nevada – The desert heat has subsided, making Vegas much more comfortable by day while remaining as electric as ever by night. In November, you can lounge by the resort pools without scorching heat, dine outside along the Strip, and catch world-class shows (or the Formula 1 Grand Prix in late November 2023). Plus, the city’s extravagant holiday displays start to appear by Thanksgiving.
• Orlando, Florida – As the rest of the country cools, Orlando stays pleasantly warm. It’s a sweet spot between summer vacationers and theme parks’ late December holiday crowds. Hit Walt Disney World or Universal Studios in early November for shorter lines. By month’s end, parks unveil stunning holiday decorations so you can experience Christmas magic early. (Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival also often runs into November, a treat for traveling foodies.)
• Palm Springs, California – In the Coachella Valley, November is downright glorious. Daytime highs in the 70s°F make it prime season for golf outings and lounging by the retro poolside hotels. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up Mt. San Jacinto for a cooler, pine-scented hike (you might even find a dusting of snow at the top while it’s sunny in town). The mid-century modern architecture tours and vintage shops along Palm Canyon Drive are all the more enjoyable in this mild weather.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – As fall turns to winter, Santa Fe offers a calm and artful retreat. November nights are chilly (often below freezing). Still, days can be sunny and crisp – perfect for browsing the galleries along Canyon Road or enjoying the local Southwest cuisine (red or green Chile on everything!). It’s also a great time to visit cultural sites like Bandelier National Monument without crowds. By late November, ski season might start at Ski Santa Fe if there’s early snow. (Santa Fe is a city for all seasons – for more insight, see when locals say is the best time to visit Santa Fe to plan your trip.)
• Nashville, Tennessee – Music City hits a high note in November. The intense heat of summer is long gone, and you get comfortable sweater weather. Time to tour the Country Music Hall of Fame and catch live music in the honky-tonks of Broadway with ease. Around Thanksgiving, Nashville starts its celebrations with beautiful light displays at the Opryland Resort. This month often hosts the CMA Awards, so the city buzzes with country music’s biggest stars and fans – you might stumble into a free concert or spot a celebrity.

November in Europe & the Caribbean

Europe sees magical Christmas markets starting mid-late November. A top choice is Vienna, Austria, where twinkling market stalls, mulled wine, and classical music create an enchanting atmosphere against imperial backdrops. In the Caribbean, November is the tail end of hurricane season and the start of peak season. One of the best bets now is Turks and Caicos – the weather is improving, and you can enjoy Grace Bay Beach (often voted one of the world’s best) with relatively few others before the December rush.

December – Best Places to Travel in the U.S.

December in the U.S. is a festive finale to the year, filled with holiday cheer, snowy escapes, and New Year’s Eve excitement. Alex’s December journey was all about twinkling lights and winter thrills. Here are the five best places to travel in December:

• New York City, New York – Nothing like New York City during the holidays. The Big Apple goes all out: the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree glows brightly as ice skaters glide on the rink below, Fifth Avenue’s window displays dazzle shoppers, and the Rockettes perform their high-kicking Christmas Spectacular at Radio City. Bundle up and wander through a snowy Central Park or visit the Bryant Park Winter Village. Come New Year’s Eve, join (or avoid!) the revelry in Times Square. NYC in December is an absolute must-visit for its unmatched holiday energy.
• Aspen, Colorado – A glamorous Rocky Mountain winter escape. Aspen’s four ski mountains are typically snowy by December, offering everything from gentle groomers to challenging bowls for skiers and snowboarders. The town itself becomes a snow-globe of holiday charm – thin wreaths on alpine chalets and warm hot cocoa in hand. You can enjoy upscale shopping, art galleries, and chic restaurants even if you don’t ski. The après-ski scene by a crackling lodge fireplace is pure Colorado luxury. (Aspen also made our list of top honeymoon destinations for its romantic winter allure.)
• Leavenworth, Washington – Tucked in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transforms into a Bavarian-style Christmas village in December. The entire town is decked with over half a million lights. Stroll through streets lined with gingerbread-house-like buildings, indulge in hot spiced wine and schnitzel, and enjoy the frequent snowfall. Weekends feature carolers, sleigh rides, and a famous Lighting Ceremony where the village is illuminated in unison. It’s a small town with a tremendous festive spirit – like stepping into a holiday postcard.
• Miami, Florida – If you’d rather trade snow for sand, Miami is a sizzling choice in December. While much of the country shivers, Miami offers beach weather. You can lie on South Beach or swim in the Atlantic Ocean on Christmas Day! The city’s diverse cultures shine this time of year: experience the enchanting Cuban tradition of Nochebuena (Christmas Eve pig roasts and celebrations) or the grand light displays at Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights. In December, Miami hosts Art Basel, a world-famous art festival, turning the city into an international art hub with parties and exhibitions. In this unique holiday twist, sandcastles meet art installations.
• San Antonio, Texas – This Texan city has a festive flair throughout December. The River Walk is the star – trees and bridges along the river are draped in thousands of lights, and luminarias (traditional Mexican Christmas lanterns) line the weekend pathways. You can take a river barge tour to see the lights shimmering on the water. The mild weather means you might need a light jacket to enjoy the outdoor Fiesta de las Luminarias or the Christmas music playing in the air. Don’t forget to visit the Alamo by moonlight or explore the Spanish colonial missions – their annual Las Posadas re-enactments (celebrating Mary and Joseph’s journey) bring a beautiful cultural touch to the season.

December in Europe & the Caribbean

In Europe, December is all about winter charm. Head to Germany’s Bavaria, where towns like Rothenburg OB der Tauber look stolen from a snow globe, or visit Lapland, Finland, if meeting Santa Claus and riding reindeer sleighs under the Northern Lights sounds like a dream come true. Over in the Caribbean, December is peak time: St. Thomas, USVI, or St. Martin offer sunny skies, holiday boat parades, and lively Carnival-style New Year’s celebrations. It’s the perfect way to trade a white snow Christmas for white sand beaches.

Best Places to Travel Solo Female in the U.S.

Solo female travelers are charting their courses more than ever, and the U.S. offers a variety of friendly, safe, and enriching destinations for women exploring on their own. As a seasoned traveler, Alex notes that key ingredients for a great solo trip include welcoming locals, good public transit or walkability, and plenty to do. College towns and smaller cities often stand out – they tend to be safe, easy to navigate, and full of culture.

For instance, Seattle, Washington, with its progressive, laid-back vibe and many fellow solo adventurers, or Austin, Texas, known for its music scene and friendly locals, can make a solo traveler feel at home. Nature lovers might head to Sedona, Arizona, where the supportive spiritual community and well-trafficked hiking trails offer serenity and safety on desert hikes.

If you’re looking for beach relaxation, consider Fort Lauderdale, Florida – its compact, beachy downtown is easier to manage solo than some larger cities and has a welcoming atmosphere (Alex was surprised by how quickly Fort Lauderdale charmed him during his visit). Don’t overlook small New England towns like Burlington, Vermont, or Midwest gems like Madison, Wisconsin, which are often cited for their safety and hospitality.

Wherever you go, trust your instincts, stay aware, and you’ll find that solo travel can be empowering and deeply rewarding. Often, the connections you make – a friendly conversation at a café or joining a local walking tour – become the journey’s highlight, proving that you’re never truly alone on the road!

Alex’s Personal Favorite Month to Travel in the U.S.

After a year of roaming, Alex Carter has a tough choice: which month stole his heart? October emerges as Alex’s favorite month to travel in the U.S. for good reason. In October, he found the perfect convergence of pleasant weather, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local events.

He recalls one particularly magical day in Vermont: “I was driving down a country lane near Stowe, and it felt like living in a painting. The maple trees were ablaze in red and gold around me. I stopped at a farm stand for hot apple cider and chatted with a local family about the harvest season. That simple, authentic connection – set against the backdrop of fall foliage – was something I’ll never forget.”

Beyond New England’s famous leaves, Alex loved how diverse October could be across the states. One week, he was hiking under aspens in Colorado as they turned bright yellow; the next, he joined locals at a pumpkin festival in the Midwest, carving jack-o’-lanterns under a crisp blue sky. Even cities were delightful – places like Salem, MA, and San Antonio, TX, offered unique spins on autumn with spooky history tours and cultural celebrations.

Crowds are thinner in October than in summer, which made his explorations feel more intimate and special. And the weather? “Not too hot, not too cold, just right,” Alex laughs, noting he barely touched the AC or heater in his rental car that month. For Alex, October encapsulates the spirit of travel: a season of change that reminds you how beautiful change can be. It’s a time when every day felt like an adventure and also a homecoming – a warm, colorful embrace by the country he’s spent a year getting to know more deeply.