1. Because, in Key West, winter is nothing more than a rumor.
Named the "Top Winter Location" in the U.S., the beautiful Florida town (which "has no known record of frost, ice, sleet or snow") averages winter highs of 70s and lows of 60s at night. If you're into fresh food, gorgeous beaches, and a tropical vacation no matter what time of year, Key West is for you.
2. And, in Maui, they've never even HEARD of it.
The winter months are actually peak season on this beautiful Hawaiian island; it's the best time for surfing and whale watching — and, for those active vacationers, watching the sunrise through the clouds from Haleakalā National Park is as gorgeous as ever.
3. Dallas trades snowy days for rodeo shows and delicious barbecue.
Although winter storms are certainly not unheard of in this Texan city, it usually stays fairly temperate during the cold season. Hit Fair Park for some family fun, where you'll find the largest Ferris wheel north of Mexico. The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo takes place from January to February and is worth a visit — it'll make winter feel lightyears away. Regardless: There's no chill that barbecue can't cure.
4. And New Orleans lights up winter with the greatest party on earth.
5. In Savannah, you can wander jaw-dropping gardens and historical plantations on Valentine's Day.
An absolutely breathtaking historical city located in Georgia, Savannah's winters are typically pleasant and pass with little fanfare. Which is great news, because the city offers picturesque, romantic places to explore such as Forsyth Park and the Wormsloe Historic Site.
6. And, for adventurous souls, White Sands National Monument is perpetually incredible.
7. In Scottsdale, Arizona, you can leave your winter coat at home.
Known for its warm weather, gorgeous scenery, and amazing culinary scene, Scottsdale is a great pick for a winter getaway. Nestled in the Arizonan desert, the city holds several exciting events during winter, like the famous Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament.
8. And, at South Beach, every day is a beach day.
9. "Winter" in Austin is basically summer by a different name.
With warm weather practically all year, it's never too cold to enjoy Austin's beautiful natural pools or mouthwatering food trucks. December in Austin also holds the Trail of Lights festival, which spans two weeks and illuminates the city's Zilker Park with festive Christmas decorations.
10. And sure, Bryce Canyon National Park gets a little chilly, but the views are unbeatable.
11. In San Diego, you can still enjoy ice skating — while it's 83 degrees and sunny.
12. And Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is nature's fireplace.
13. San Francisco has only one season: gorgeous.
With some of the most consistently mild weather in the United States, San Francisco is the perfect location for a winter break. The Californian city — known for its beautiful sights, great day trips (the Napa Valley is close by), and laid-back culture — also holds SF Restaurant Week in January, so you can get your fill of unbeatable seafood, mission burritos, and more.
And, in case you're not convinced...
14. ...sunrise in Charleston, North Carolina, looks like this...
15. ...a terrible winter's day in Las Vegas, Nevada, looks like this...
16. ...and, in Santa Barbara, California, the sunsets look like this:
