15 Must-Visit US Destinations This February
Ready to shake off those winter blues? February might seem like the sleepiest month, but it’s one of the best times to explore the USA. Think fewer tourists, better deals, and destinations that truly shine during this short-but-sweet month.
We’ll share the top destinations to add to your radar. These spots prove that February isn’t just a bridge between winter and spring – it’s a star player in the travel game!
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1. Big Island, Hawaii
February is prime whale-watching season on Hawaii’s largest island, where humpbacks breach and play in the warm Pacific waters.
February sees fewer crowds than peak seasons, letting you soak in those black sand beaches and volcanic vistas without the tourist crush.
The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival adds a splash of pink to the volcanic landscape, while perfect temperatures hover around 78-80°F.
Don’t miss the 9th Annual South Kona Artists Collective, where 21 artists showcase their work across 12 scenic stops.
Insider Tip: Time your visit with the Annual Wiliwili Festival for guided forest tours and native plant giveaways – a fantastic way to connect with local ecology.
Where to Stay: Royal Kona Resort serves up breakfast with sweeping ocean views that’ll make your morning coffee taste even better.
2. Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled mountain town that transforms into a snow-dusted gem in February. The shoulder season means quieter streets and better deals, perfect for exploring the town’s German architecture and cozy beer gardens.
Outdoor enthusiasts can hit the groomed cross-country skiing trails at Lake Wenatchee State Park, while foodies dive into authentic German pastries at the Bavarian Bakery.
Insider Tip: Book the Christmastown Tour and explore this winter wonderland.
Where to Stay: Posthotel offers an adults-only retreat that combines Alpine luxury with intimate charm.
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3. The Everglades, Florida
February delivers the sweet spot for exploring this wild waterscape, with pleasant temperatures and minimal humidity.
Wildlife viewing hits peak season – spot alligators sunbathing along the everglands and countless wading birds nesting in the marshes.
The newly restored Guy Bradley Visitor Center provides stunning views over Florida Bay, complete with high-powered binoculars for bird watching.
Insider Tip: Visit Eco Pond during low tide when mud flats attract diverse bird species – wildlife photographers flock here for good reason.
Where to Stay: Flamingo’s eco-tents blend glamping comfort with wild Everglades nights, offering a unique way to sleep under the stars.
4. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
The world’s largest gypsum dunefield sparkles under February’s winter sun. The cooler temperatures make hiking through the white dunes more comfortable than summer months.
Grab a plastic sled from the visitor center and zoom down the dunes – just remember to wax your sled in stripes for maximum speed.
Insider Tip: Hit the Alkali Flat Trail first thing in the morning, before crowds arrive and temperatures climb.
Where to Stay: White Sands Motel captures the retro charm of classic American road trips while keeping you close to the dunes.
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5. Big Sky, Montana
February brings perfect powder conditions to this Rocky Mountain gem. Beyond world-class skiing, you can hop on a horse-drawn sleigh to an oil-lantern-lit cabin for a legendary prime rib dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch.
The outdoor ice rink in Town Center offers free skating under the big Montana sky, with rental skates available at nearby Grizzly Outfitters.
Insider Tip: Book a spot at the Montana Dinner Yurt for an unforgettable evening combining snowcat rides, live music, sledding, and fireside dining.
Where to Stay: Summit Hotel at Big Sky Resort puts you right in the action with ski-in/ski-out access and the Carabiner lounge for après-ski festivities.
6. Key West, Florida
You’ll find perfect weather in Key West, with highs around 76°F and the lowest rainfall of the year. Catch the vibrant Annual Old Island Days Art Festival, where over 100 artists showcase their finest work in the historic Truman Annex neighborhood.
Couples can spice up Valentine’s Day with jet ski adventures or intimate dinners at local hotspots.
Insider Tip: Time your visit with the art festival on February 22-23 (2025) when the creative energy of the island peaks.
Where to Stay: The Tiki Suite barge offers a uniquely Key West experience with Brazilian hardwood floors and water views, complete with paddleboards and snorkel gear.
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7. Tucson, Arizona
February’s mild desert temps create the perfect backdrop wildflowers starting their colorful show at Saguaro National Park.
Foodies can dive into the city’s UNESCO-designated gastronomy scene, sampling innovative Sonoran cuisine at the newly opened BATA or joining a food walking tour through downtown.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowds at Sabino Canyon and head to Catalina State Park’s Romero Pools trail – the desert views are just as spectacular, and you might spot some bighorn sheep.
Where to Stay: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort channels Old Hollywood glamour with stunning Santa Catalina Mountain views.
8. San Diego, California
February brings perfect beach-walking weather and prime gray whale watching season to this sun-soaked city.
The annual San Diego Museum Month offers half-price admission to over 45 museums, while the craft beer scene buzzes with special winter releases.
Balboa Park’s gardens burst with early spring blooms, and the tide pools at La Jolla Shores reveal their fascinating underwater residents during winter’s low tides.
Insider Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Chinese New Year Festival in the Asian Cultural District – the lion dances and food stalls are absolutely incredible.
Where to Stay: Hotel del Coronado combines Victorian splendor with beachfront luxury, plus you might spot dolphins during breakfast.
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9. Portland, Oregon
February transforms Portland into a cozy urban retreat where steaming ramen shops and craft coffee bars become natural sanctuaries.
The Portland Winter Light Festival illuminates the city with dazzling art installations, while the Portland Jazz Festival brings world-class musicians to intimate venues.
Food cart pods serve up steaming comfort dishes, and Powell’s Books offers the perfect excuse to spend hours browsing endless shelves.
Insider Tip: Join a walking food tour – where you can sample Portland’s most famous donuts.
Where to Stay: The Hoxton Portland occupies a historic building in Old Town, featuring a secret cocktail bar and rooftop taco joint that locals actually frequent.
10. Palm Springs, California
February welcomes Modernism Week, an 11-day celebration of midcentury design and architecture that draws visitors worldwide. You can peek inside stunning mid-century homes normally closed to the public!
The month kicks off with the El Paseo Art Walk and Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival, featuring 70 top wineries. Art enthusiasts can explore the Palm Springs Art Museum for free every Thursday evening.
Insider Tip: Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride – the desert landscape looks absolutely surreal from above, especially when the winter light hits the San Jacinto Mountains.
Where to Stay: The Westin Mission Hills Resort hosts the Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival, offering the perfect base for wine enthusiasts.
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11. South Padre Island, Texas
February brings delightful temperatures and fewer crowds to this coastal gem. The island buzzes with eco-adventures – spot playful dolphins on bay cruises and learn the art of sandcastle building from master sculptors.
The annual Winterfest & Expo (February 12-13) adds a vibrant cultural touch with live music, karaoke contests, and special tributes to Vietnam veterans.
Insider Tip: Book a morning dolphin watch tour when the waters are calmest and dolphins are most active.
Where to Stay: The Sand Rose Beachfront offers complimentary breakfast and prime beach access at winter-friendly rates.
12. Santa Barbara, California
February transforms this coastal city into a cultural hotspot with the 40th International Film Festival (February 4-15 2025). Early wildflowers paint the hillsides while mild temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.
The First Thursday Art Walk fills downtown with creative energy, featuring free gallery access and live performances.
Insider Tip: Combine Valentine’s Day with a wine tour through the scenic Santa Ynez Valley.
Where to Stay: The Riviera Beach House puts you steps from both film festival venues and morning beach walks.
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13. Biscayne National Park, Florida
February’s mild temperatures create ideal conditions for exploring Biscayne National Park. Paddle through the peaceful Jones Lagoon, where you might spot sea turtles and sharks gliding beneath your kayak.
The mangrove-lined waterways offer intimate encounters with marine life, while Boca Chita Key beckons with its historic lighthouse and pristine beaches.
Where to Stay: The Marriott Biscayne Bay offers stunning water views and easy park access.
14. Fairbanks, Alaska
February in Fairbanks is where the northern lights dance across star-studded skies. The World Ice Art Championships draws talented sculptors who turn crystal-clear “Arctic Diamond” ice into mind-bending masterpieces you can actually play on.
Winter activities are plenty, such as dog mushing adventures. Snow machine rides and fat bike rentals add an extra dash of arctic thrill to your northern adventure.
Insider Tip: Book your aurora viewing during the new moon phase for the most dramatic light shows in the dark Alaskan sky.
Where to Stay: Chena Hot Springs Resort lets you soak in steaming mineral waters while scanning for the northern lights.
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15. San Antonio, Texas
Thinking of visiting San Antonio in February? The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo delivers authentic Texas culture with live music and world-class rodeo action.
The city’s renowned culinary scene heats up with special Valentine’s menus at riverside restaurants.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the nightly light show at San Fernando Cathedral – it’s a mesmerizing display of Texas history projected onto the historic façade.
Where to Stay: The historic Menger Hotel blends Victorian elegance with ghost stories and sits just steps from the Alamo.
