Woah, it’s winter season in US already? Mariah Carey is defrosting as we speak. One minute, you’re daydreaming of an Italian summer vacation, then the next, you’re pulling puffer coats from the back of your closet!
Winter doesn’t have to mean going into hibernation mode at home, though. You can have as much fun outdoors over the holidays with your loved ones as any season! Here are 10 exciting things to do during winter in the US to give you all the festive feels.
1. Ice skate in New York
Have fun ice skating at the iconic Rockefeller Center! Credits to Klook
There’s nothing like a classic ice skating run that makes you feel like the star of a Hallmark holiday movie. It’s a safe space for those who aren’t pros because giggling and gliding around the rink is what it’s all about!
The best place to do this is no other than The Rink at the Rockefeller Center, New York City. As a matter of fact, this city is the ultimate place in the USA to spend your holiday break to feel like a little kid again.
2. Hop on a snowmobile at Yellowstone National Park
Zoom through Yellowstone National Park when you go on a snowmobile adventure! Credits to Reimar on Adobe Stock
This is one of the more adventurous holiday activities in the USA. Don’t be intimidated, though; it’s easy to maneuver as long as you have a driver’s license and are experienced in driving.
Besides, we can all agree that everyone looks 10 times cooler on a snowmobile! Join a tour at Yellowstone National Park to spot a majestic elk and/or bison as you cruise through the snow.
3. Dash through Northern Lake Tahoe on a sleigh ride
Enjoy a sleigh ride tour with the whole family! Credits to Reno Tahoe Territory on Flickr
It’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with your fam! This is one of the many fun things to do in the USA, particularly at Northern Lake Tahoe, where you’ll be amazed that it doesn’t turn frozen over the wintertime.
Book a private narrated sleigh ride with Borges Sleigh & Carriage Rides, a family business operating for over 50+ years.
4. Ski down Mount Aspen
Put your skiing skills to the test at Mount Aspen. Credits to Jonathan Fox on Flickr
This one’s for those who love a challenge! The mountain town of Aspen in Colorado is a famous winter US destination for skiing.
One is driving through Independence Pass, a scenic road where you’ll venture through tight turns, overlooking cliffs, and thick forests. Of course, what better way to do that than by renting a car through Klook!
5. Dog sled in Alaska
Let a pack of huskies take you on a thrilling and unforgettable experience in Alaska. Credits to Mike Juvrud on Flickr
Have a seat and let some mighty furry friends take you on a dog sledding adventure! Mushers are the “drivers” of this tour, while the dogs serve as the powerful motor. It’s like taking Zoomies to another level!
During winter in the US, go to Musher’s Camp at Juneau, where you can find tours that take you on a helicopter ride before being pulled by an energetic pack of huskies over the Herbert Glacier.
6. Snowshoe at Mount Hood
Get your steps in when you go for a calming walk through the forest! Credits to H.L.I.T. on Flickr
Snowshoeing is a term for hiking over snow. Consider this as nature’s therapy for winter blues as you socialize with your group over the crunching sounds of fresh, powdery snow.
The Crosstown Trail and Enid Lake Loop offer beginner-friendly paths without sacrificing magnificent views of Mount Hood, Oregon. This makes for a great bonding activity to do with the whole family!
7. Visit a charming Christmassy town in California
See how this charming village transforms into a Christmas town over the holidays! Credits to Hayk Shalunts on Adobe Stock
Winter in the US has such a heartwarming vibe when you take a trip to quaint little towns that just scream “Christmas!” Just one look around Solvang in California is guaranteed to bring back all the holiday feels you had growing up.
This Danish village comes alive over the holidays with light shows, Christmas markets, souvenir shops selling knick-knacks, and more. Don’t miss out on their Julefest celebration from November to the beginning of January!
8. Watch the ball drop in New York
Share a New Year’s kiss with that special someone at Times Square as the clock strikes 12! Credits to Chandler on Adobe Stock
Collect core memories in the City that Never Sleeps and stay to celebrate New Year’s Eve as well! Instead of watching the live stream on television, why not be a part of it in person?
Watch the ball drop at Times Square and prepare for a star-studded night of performances before you're showered in confetti and serenaded by Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York.”
9. Discover frozen waterfalls in California
See a frozen waterfall in Crystal Ice Cave! Credits to Dominic on Adobe Stock
A daredevil’s Christmas activity! Lava Beds National Monument is where you’ll find an underground world frozen in time.
Be in awe looking at the massive ice formations as you go through a ranger-guided tour. This can be a little strenuous, so it’s best to make sure you’re in tip-top shape before visiting!
10. Warm-up at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Relax in a luxurious hot spring resort after a whole day of adventurous winter activities. Credits to Jerzy on Adobe Stock
During the winter, there’s no better feeling than taking a warm dip, because let’s face it, unlike Elsa, the cold does bother us sometimes. Where else to do that better than at the largest mineral hot spring pool in the luxurious Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado?
This historic resort has been running for 130 years, so you already know this is one of the most iconic things to do in the USA during the winter.
It’s easy to get caught up in the business of everyday life, so prioritize spending time with your loved ones over the holidays. We hope this article gives you some bonding inspo for your next winter wonderland-filled vacation!
