This blog post explains where cold-weather travelers are heading this holiday season and why.
It summarizes AAA’s travel estimate, WalletHub’s ranking of top U.S. winter destinations, and highlights the five cities that rose to the top—Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., St. Louis, and Cincinnati.
The post also offers practical, experience-based advice for planning efficient winter getaways.
Why winter travel is trending this holiday season
The travel landscape is heating up despite the cold: AAA estimates about 119 million Americans will travel this holiday season, and trip planning is already accelerating.
Many people chase warm-weather escapes, but a substantial segment of travelers actively seeks classic winter experiences—festive lights, ice skating, cozy museums, and authentic seasonal culture.
Practical travel advice from an industry perspective
As someone with three decades in travel and tourism, I recommend focusing on two basics: time-saving logistics and smart destination choice.
Travel expert Jeanenne Tornatore recently shared time-saving tips with FOX Weather, underscoring the same point I stress to clients—plan early, choose efficient routes, and pack strategically for weather and local activity needs.
Key considerations for efficient winter travel:
WalletHub’s top U.S. winter destinations: what matters
WalletHub evaluated 32 U.S. winter destinations using factors such as affordability, accessibility, and the variety of activities available.
The ranking favors cities that combine value with seasonal charm and low safety concerns—attributes that make a destination attractive for families and solo travelers alike.
Top five winter destinations highlighted
Chicago (No. 1): WalletHub crowned Chicago the top winter destination for combining low-cost flights—some fares reported as low as $205 round trip—with rich cultural offerings.
Travelers can enjoy world-class museums, intimate jazz clubs, luxurious spas, and the reassurance of lower property crime in key neighborhoods.
Atlanta (No. 2): Atlanta ranks high for safety and affordability, with average round-trip flights around $310.
The city’s mix of shopping, dining, and seasonal events gives travelers a warm, urban winter experience without breaking the bank.
Washington, D.C. (No. 3): The nation’s capital offers affordable travel options, iconic monuments, and festive light displays.
Its world-class museums provide weatherproof activities that are perfect for winter itineraries.
St. Louis (No. 4): Known for affordability and family-friendly winter programming, St. Louis is praised for easy access and seasonal events like ice skating and light festivals.
These features make it great for multigenerational trips.
Cincinnati (No. 5): Cincinnati rounds out the top five due to low travel costs, excellent accessibility, and standout seasonal attractions such as zoo light displays and rooftop igloos.
These experiences deliver memorable winter moments for travelers.
Making the most of your winter getaway
Choose a destination that balances cost, safety, and the kinds of activities you value most. Whether you seek cultural immersion, family-friendly attractions, or cozy urban comforts, these top-ranked cities offer varied winter charms.
Plan ahead and prioritize accessibility. Embrace local seasonal programming to get the best value from your holiday travel.
Consider your travel party size, mobility needs, and weather tolerance. Book early to secure the best fares and accommodations this busy season.
Here is the source article for this story: Love the winter? Find out the top cold weather holiday destinations to visit this holiday season across the US