As the days grow shorter and the temperatures dip (finally!), it’s clear that colder months are ahead. When it comes to winter getaways, we often find ourselves torn between two extremes: do we want to embrace the chill or escape to a tropical paradise? Some of those dream destinations can cost an arm and a leg. Why not find trips that are easy on the budget and closer to home? Believe it or not, some of the best winter travel spots are just a short flight away, $200-$300 to reach them from major U.S. cities, and no layovers.
Whether you’re craving a snowball fight before sitting by the fire with hot cocoa or tackling a hike in the desert before a nice dinner, we’ve got you covered! This list features the best of both worlds, all within the U.S.
Cold Weather: Atlanta, Georgia
According to a recent study by WalletHub, Atlanta, Georgia, is your best bet for winter fun. With plenty of shopping, fantastic restaurants, food festivals, and spas, there’s no shortage of things to do. The weather’s also milder here in the South—cool enough to feel festive but without the hassle of snow.