21 Best Places to Visit in February (2024)
👉 Jump to: Places to Visit in February in USA | International Places to Visit in February
I’m a travel expert with insights into the best places to visit in February, both in the USA and abroad!
Save money and avoid dreaded summer crowds during many destinations’ off-season. Escape brutally cold winter weather by visiting warm beaches, exploring deserts, or hiking up volcanoes. Or embrace all the fresh snow with winter sports and trips to cozy museums.
This epic round-up includes options for all of the above, plus travel tips and resources to help you plan the perfect winter vacation!
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Best Places to Visit in February in the USA
San Juan, Puerto Rico
This colorful city’s beautiful beaches, tasty cuisine, and friendly locals make it a great winter vacation.
✈️ Flights to San Juan | 🛎️ Hotels in San Juan | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants
Go to San Juan, Puerto Rico if you’re searching for a place that will cheer you up and give you a good dose of vitamin D. I traveled to San Juan in the middle of February. I was never bored thanks to the food, people, beaches, and attractions.
Old San Juan is easily walkable, and a Puerto Rico trip isn’t complete without a jaunt around its colorful streets. Visit historic sites like El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal. Sample tasty Puerto Rican food at restaurants like Deaverura.
There are plenty of beaches for lounging, though I’d put Escambron Beach at the top of your list. Craving a day trip? Rent a car and drive to El Yunque National Park where you’ll be welcomed by the bellows of the tiny coqui frog.
Colorado
World-class ski resorts, incredible hot springs, and unique mountain towns await in the best US state for winter adventures.
✈️ Flights to Colorado | 🛎️ Hotels in Colorado | Where to Stay | Places to Visit | Things to Do
There’s no way around it: Colorado is one of the best places to visit in February. This is especially true if you love winter sports. February in Colorado is the peak season for skiing, and there are dozens of Colorado ski resorts.
Vail and Breckenridge are two of the state’s most well-known resorts with plenty to offer avid skiers. Head to Telluride for great skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and even a snowy horseback riding adventure.
Colorado’s quaint mountain towns have plenty of restaurants with food and drinks to warm you up while you get to know the locals. Make sure you plan to visit one of many relaxing hot springs after your cold-weather adventure, a reward for a day well spent.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Join in the Mardi Gras celebrations, listen to talented jazz musicians, and dine on the best Cajun-Creole food in the nation.
✈️ Flights to New Orleans | 🛎️ Hotels in New Orleans | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants
New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras every February, the biggest festival in Louisiana. Hotel prices are high during this time, but so is the excitement in this bustling city.
Visiting during Mardi Gras is a once-in-a-lifetime event. It’s perfect for those who love cultural events with parades, music, and big crowds. Don’t neglect the other fantastic New Orleans attractions, though.
Wander through the historic French Quarter. Pop into venues along Frenchman Street to hear the sounds of the city. And don’t leave the Big Easy without trying two things. Get beignets from Cafe Du Monde, and order jambalaya or red beans and rice from Dooky Chase, my favorite restaurant in the city.
Southern California
Visit Los Angeles and San Diego or Palm Springs and Death Valley with smaller crowds and perfect desert temperatures.
✈️ Flights to Southern California | 🛎️ Hotels in Southern California | Places to Visit | Things to Do | Restaurants
Visiting Southern California during the off-season is the best way to avoid hordes of tourists in its major cities. It’s also the best time to enjoy the desert at its least oppressive temperatures. This is one of the reasons I prefer visiting my family during this month!
It’s a little too cold to lounge on those famed Southern California beaches, but February is a great time for surfing and whale watching in San Diego. Explore the classic Los Angeles attractions at a slower pace.
Head over to Palm Springs for a relaxing resort experience. Or drive to Death Valley National Park for desert exploration. February is the best time to visit these desert destinations. The mild temperatures promise a more comfortable (and safer) experience than summer.
Tucson, Arizona
Explore the natural beauty of the American Southwest by venturing out on hikes around one of Arizona’s best cities.
✈️ Flights to Tucson | 🛎️ Hotels in Tucson | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants
Arizona is another top destination for February travel. Outdoor enthusiasts should set their sights on Tucson, the perfect home base for incredible desert hikes.
The options for hikes around Tucson are endless, but Saguaro National Park is a good starting point. This gorgeous national park just outside of Tucson boasts thousands of its namesake saguaro cacti. Go at sunrise or sunset to see Saguaro National Park at its most picturesque. Visit in the evening for enchanting stargazing opportunities.
Plan to visit downtown Tucson after your outdoor excursions. The city has great restaurants and breweries for all the post-hike beers and bites you need.
Saint Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands
Pristine beaches, winter sun, and snorkeling opportunities abound at this Caribbean paradise.
✈️ Flights to Saint Thomas | 🛎️ Hotels in Saint Thomas | Where to Stay | Places to Visit | Things to Do
The U.S Virgin Islands are another Caribbean gem to visit in February if you’re looking for warm weather destinations. Head to Saint Thomas if you want a winter getaway that prioritizes two things: romance and relaxation.
There are plenty of St. Thomas beaches to visit for different activities. Head to Brewers Bay Beach for snorkeling or go to Magens Bay Beach for a lively atmosphere and amenities. Hike to Mermaid’s Chair for seclusion and end the day with a romantic sunset dinner cruise.
February does fall within the busiest time to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. Make sure you book things as early as possible to avoid price surges. Also, be sure to read Andrew’s budget-friendly tips to save some cash on a visit.
El Paso, Texas
Experience a wonderful blend of American and Mexican culture. This city is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, Mexican-American history, and Spanish-style architecture.
✈️ Flights to El Paso | 🛎️ Hotels in El Paso
Searching for sun? El Paso is one of the sunniest places in the USA, making it a fantastic city to visit in February.
El Paso sits right along the border between the U.S. and Mexico. This gives it a wonderful blend of both Mexican and American culture. You’re equally as likely to hear Spanish here as English, and longer visits necessitate a day trip across the border.
Do yourself a favor and eat some delicious Tex-Mex cuisine at restaurants like Kiki’s and L&J Cafe. Dive into the city’s art history at the El Paso Art Museum. Check out the historic Mission Trail to visit the Ysleta and Socorro Missions, two of the oldest churches in Texas.
Disney World, Florida
Visit the happiest place on Earth during one of the least crowded (and most reasonably priced) times of the year.
✈️ Flights to Orlando | 🛎️ Hotels in Orlando | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants
Disney World is a wonderful destination for a February vacation, especially if you want a family-friendly trip. This world-class attraction in Florida will never truly be devoid of crowds. But you’ve got a better chance of avoiding them if you come during February.
You’ll need to be strategic with timing, though. Avoid coming during President’s Day or ski week. Valentine’s Day may also see swells in activity, but it’s a good day to go if you want an adult Disney experience.
There are countless things to do in Disney World. Luckily, our 6-day Disney World itinerary takes the stress out of planning! Ride the mountains at Magic Kingdom and meet your favorite Disney characters. End the day watching Disney’s classic fireworks shows.
Atlanta, Georgia
Wander top-notch museums and stroll through one of the country’s prettiest botanical gardens in this big city with small-town charm.
✈️ Flights to Atlanta | 🛎️ Hotels in Atlanta
Visit Atlanta, Georgia if you want to let your inner museum nerd out. Atlanta has top-tier museums and attractions which include the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Georgia Aquarium, High Museum of Art, and World of Coca-Cola.
Nature lovers will adore the Atlanta Botanical Garden. This 30-acre garden is meticulously kept and has stunning floral sculptures. The Atlanta Botanical Garden has dozens of events throughout the year, too. It hosts classes on everything from art and tai chi to gardening and pie-making.
Winters in Atlanta are relatively mild, and temperatures hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Enjoy the city’s greenery, diverse and welcoming locals, and Southern charm. They all make the ATL a great respite from chilly winters elsewhere.
Taos, New Mexico
Visit New Mexico’s best ski resort and explore a small town brimming with Indigenous art, history, and culture.
✈️ Flights to Taos | 🛎️ Hotels in Taos | Where to Stay | Things to Do
Taos, New Mexico caters beautifully to a variety of travelers. February isn’t its peak season, so you can expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Visit Taos in February to hit the slopes at the Taos Ski Valley. The resort is in the shadow of Wheeler Peak, the state’s tallest mountain. Both experts and beginners can enjoy the trails, restaurants, and amenities at this popular resort.
Stick around downtown Taos for an art and culture-heavy experience. Explore dozens of art galleries featuring local artists and check out the city’s top attraction, the Taos Pueblo. This city icon has been inhabited by the area’s Indigenous tribe for over a thousand years. A visit is essential for any cultural excursion.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
This popular southern beach city is an affordable option for couples and golfers in February.
✈️ Flights to Myrtle Beach | 🛎️ Hotels in Myrtle Beach
February isn’t the most popular season to visit Myrtle Beach, but you’ll enjoy yourself (and the mild weather) if you do. Expect lower hotel prices, uncrowded attractions, and restaurants with no reservations required. This makes Myrtle Beach an attractive option for couples looking for a budget-friendly getaway.
Don’t plan on taking a dip in the water at Myrtle Beach in the winter. Bundle up for a cozy winter beach walk instead. Enjoy restaurants serving fresh seafood like tuna and blue crab. Southern classics like shrimp and grits and barbecue aren’t hard to find.
Enjoy golfing? February is one of the best times to visit this desirable golfing destination to get the most bang for your buck. Check out Prestwick Country Club or Barefoot Resort and Golf for great deals.
Best Places to Visit in February (International)
Sun Peaks, British Columbia, Canada
This Canadian ski resort has great hills, a relaxed atmosphere, and a cozy village for après-ski.
✈️ Flights to Kamloops | 🛎️ Hotels in Sun Peaks
Sun Peaks is an attractive ski resort option in British Columbia, Canada. It’s located northeast of Whistler near Kamloops, and it doesn’t have nearly as many bells and whistles as its western neighbor.
But Sun Peaks is perfect if you prioritize relaxation on your ski trip. It also has better hills, a less commercial atmosphere, and is downright cozy. Visit in February for the best snow quality.
Non-skiers need not worry. Sun Peaks has awesome beginner skiing lessons, and it’s where I started to get my ski legs. You can also try snowboarding, snowshoeing, or hit up the brand-new ice skating rink. There’s not that much shopping in Sun Peaks, but there are plenty of restaurants and bars with delicious hot chocolate and poutine to warm you up.
Luang Prabang, Laos
A laidback Southeast Asian destination for travelers looking to move at a slower pace.
✈️ Flights to Luang Prabang | 🛎️ Hotels in Luang Prabang
Don’t overlook the beautiful country of Laos when searching for places to visit in February. The month falls in the dry season, so visitors can expect sunny weather and lots to do.
Luang Prabang is a great Laotian city. The well-preserved city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the royal capital of Laos. It’s admittedly touristy, but less so than other popular Southeast Asian cities. This makes Luang Prabang perfect for visitors searching for a quieter escape.
Explore its beautiful temples and the royal palace. Visit the morning and night markets for affordable food, especially sticky rice and larb. Take a day trip to Kuang Si Waterfall and climb Mt. Phousi for scenic views of the city and beyond.
Florence, Italy
An art lover’s dream, this Italian city has fantastic museums and no shortage of gelato.
✈️ Flights to Florence | 🛎️ Hotels in Florence | Where to Stay | Things to Do
February is one of the best times to visit Florence, Italy to escape the crowds. Believe me, I’ve visited Florence in the peak summer season. I don’t recommend it unless you like standing elbow-to-elbow with other tourists!
A trip in February means cooler weather, fewer visitors, and cheaper accommodations. This is the perfect time to check out Florence’s world-class museums. No visit is complete without a trip to the massive Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, and the Bargello National Museum. Admire works by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt at each.
I also recommend having as much gelato as you can stomach (yes, even in winter). Take a look at Sky’s 3-day Florence itinerary to guarantee the best trip. It includes hotel recommendations and where to stop for food along the way.
Brazil
Experience one of the biggest and most vibrant festivals in the world.
✈️ Flights to Brazil | 🛎️ Hotels in Brazil
Carnival is the biggest holiday and annual event in Brazil and it takes place every February! February is one of the hottest months in this southern hemisphere country. Be prepared for the heat if this is on your winter itinerary.
Some of the biggest Carnival celebrations happen in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. However, there are different celebrations all over the country in places like Recife and Olinda, as well as Salvador de Bahia.
Have all the fun watching incredible samba performances and parades. Dance to live music and eat delicious food during Carnival. But keep in mind that prices are sky-high with a celebration this large. Book flights and accommodation early for this festival experience.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Watch animal migrations and soar above the plains in this unforgettable national park.
✈️ Flights to Serengeti National Park | 🛎️ Hotels in Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s incredible national parks. February is one of the best times to take advantage of what the park has to offer.
Serengeti National Park is one of the best places for safaris in Tanzania. February marks the wildebeest migration when you can watch the herd travel, graze, and calve.
Visits aren’t limited to safaris. Stay at a luxury hotel and enjoy breathtaking views of the park’s plains. Take a journey above the Serengeti in a hot air balloon for a one-in-a-lifetime experience. Or check out the Olduvai Gorge Museum to learn about human evolution and see human remains estimated to be millions of years old.
Norway
Take a romantic snowy getaway to the best country for viewing the Northern Lights and winter sunsets.
✈️ Flights to Norway | 🛎️ Hotels in Norway
Norway is a beautiful country and one of the best places to visit in February if you’re a fan of snowy winter escapes.
February brings shorter days and longer nights to Norway. It’s the perfect combination if your goal is to see the Aurora Borealis. Stay in Tromsø or another place in the Arctic Circle for the best chance of catching the northern lights.
Outdoorsy couples and travelers will find ample skiing, dog-sledding, and snowshoeing opportunities. There are also options if you prefer a more low-key vacation. Book a boutique hotel in Bergen or Oslo at an affordable off-season price. Explore museums, spend time in toasty saunas, or cruise through the fjords.
Costa Rica
Come to this Central American gem for adventure and to appreciate the country’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
✈️ Flights to Costa Rica | 🛎️ Hotels in Costa Rica | Places to Visit
Warm weather and adventurous activities combine to make Costa Rica one of the best places to visit in February. This month is part of the dry season in this Central American country. Expect sunny skies and perfect weather to enjoy one of Costa Rica’s best features: its national parks.
Costa Rica is home to dozens of epic national parks. Explore cloud forests, jungles, waterfalls, volcanoes, and beaches. Animal lovers will especially love this country for its vast amount of colorful and unusual wildlife. Sea turtles, hummingbirds, and sloths are just a few of the most beloved.
Go ziplining or try snorkeling when visiting Costa Rica. The destination is lucky enough to have some of the best spots to snorkel in the world.
Antigua, Guatemala
Cultural experiences and heart-pumping hikes await visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage city.
✈️ Flights to Antigua | 🛎️ Hotels in Antigua | Where to Stay | Things to Do
There’s a lot to love about Guatemala including Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come to Antigua to experience a perfect blend of historical and cultural experiences. Or use it as a base to explore mountains, volcanoes, lakes, and other natural features.
Wander through giant markets like Mercado Central. Take local-led walking tours and visit museums to learn about the Mayans. You can even attend a Spanish school to fully immerse yourself in Guatemalan culture.
The Acatenango Volcano hike is a must for those interested in exploring Guatemala’s outdoor activities. There are also Mayan Ruins, parks, and other hiking trails to check out nearby.
Paris, France
Enjoy the most romantic city in the world in one of its least crowded seasons.
✈️ Flights to Paris | 🛎️ Hotels in Paris | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants
Winter isn’t usually considered an ideal time to visit Paris. But I think it’s one of the best places to visit in February, as you can see France’s capital city with far fewer crowds. Just make sure you can handle the cold, windy, and sometimes rainy days.
Paris is nicknamed “The City of Love”, so visiting is a no-brainer if you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s Day holiday. Bundle up for a walk to the Eiffel Tower, enjoy shorter lines at the Louvre, and peruse the shelves at Shakespeare and Company. All are musts on your Paris itinerary.
With any luck, you’ll be able to snag reservations to highly-rated eateries much easier. Dine at some of the best restaurants and cafes surrounded by locals rather than other travelers.
Thailand
A solo traveler favorite, this country has some of the best nightlife and beaches in the world.
✈️ Flights to Thailand | 🛎️ Hotels in Thailand | Places to Visit
Thailand is undoubtedly one of the best Asian countries to visit in February to escape the chilly winter months. The weather is warm, temperatures are pleasant, and there’s little rainfall during this dry season month.
Solo travelers love Thailand, and we have a handy list of travel tips if you’re considering a solo trip. There’s plenty to do throughout the country, but its nightlife and beaches are especially wonderful.
Explore Bangkok’s most famous (but yes, crowded) Chatuchak Market. Or go to the Train Night Market, a foodie’s paradise. Head over to Koh Chang or Railay to relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
February is a great time to visit Thailand, but visitors should generally avoid the north during this time. The burning season typically begins around February, making air quality unsafe in places like Chiang Mai.
📅 Month-by-Month Travel Inspiration:
- Best Places to Travel in January
- Best Places to Travel in August
- Best Places to Travel in September
- Best Places to Travel in October
- Best Places to Travel in November
- Best Places to Travel in December
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These are the best places to visit in February for an exciting winter trip. Leave a comment below to let me know your favorite!
