10 Romantic Getaways in the Winter That’ll Rekindle Your Romance
It may sound romantic, snuggling under the warm sheets as you watch the snow fall outside your window. But let’s be honest, the cold can sometimes put a damper on romance. Instead, why not embrace the winter season and add a spark to your relationship?
Wintertime can be a wonderful time to travel, and for many destinations, you can get some fantastic airfare and hotel deals. Sip hot cocoa after a day on the slopes or escape to a cozy cabin for a weekend getaway. Here are the best USA romantic getaways in the winter spicy enough to light a fire in your relationship.
1. New York City, New York
As a Jersey girl, I would never wish a New York winter upon anyone. However, I admit touring the city with a partner during the holiday season was magical, and their New Year’s celebrations are pretty epic.
With festive lights, ice skating, and cozy bars around every corner, New York City is quite romantic when the branches are dusted with snow.
A stroll through Central Park, followed by dinner at my favorite restaurant, Kimika, in Little Italy, is cute. And let’s not forget about the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony – perfect for stealing a kiss under the mistletoe.
2. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, Maine
This coastal spot greets winter visitors with brisk ocean air and hearty lobster dinners. The Park Loop Road reveals rugged shores and evergreen forests that look incredible under a pale winter sun.
Wake up early to see Cadillac Mountain light up at dawn, then huddle around a bowl of hot chowder. Bundle up and watch waves crash dramatically along the rocky coastline.
Many roads are closed, but some trails around Acadia remain open for hiking. The carriage roads of the National Park are snowy and secluded but accessible if you want to snowshoe or cross-country ski.
At night, you can settle into a small B&B that cooks homestyle meals.
3. Palm Springs, California
The desert breeze brings a spark of excitement for couples hoping to escape chilly weather. Many mid-century hotels in this California iconic destination keep their pools warm, just in case you want to take a dip.
The Ace Hotel & Swim Club has fire pits, and Joshua Tree National Park is an easy day trip.
A ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will whisk you to a sweeping view of the desert below, and you can snowshoe at the top.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Cobblestone streets and grand old buildings set the tone for a winter escape by the sea. Temperatures are mild, so being outdoors is quite comfortable.
Head to the Battery to see historic stately homes, shop, or walk through White Point Garden. You can go on a horse-drawn carriage ride or take a sunset boat tour of the harbor.
Southern dishes like shrimp and grits spark plenty of conversation at dinner. Some restaurants of note include the Peninsula Grill, and FIG, a Lowcountry cuisine that has slow-baked grouper, and brioche crusted flounder.
5. Vail, Colorado
A European-inspired ski town, Vail has fresh mountain air and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. With all of that snow, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to ski, snowmobile, go dog sledding, or on a sleigh ride. You can even enjoy bumper cars on ice!
The village in Vail is picturesque and has one of the best après-ski scenes in the US. Couples can snuggle up in a cozy cabin, condo or hotel after a long day on the slopes.
Flame Steakhouse is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two, and the food and service are impeccable. If you’ve got room for dessert, stop by Gessner and make yourself a gourmet s’more while you stay toasty and warm inside with amazing views of the snow-capped mountains.
6. Sonoma, California
Vineyards in Sonoma stretch out in every direction, some offering tastings all year long. The weather is mild so you can go hiking or biking throughout the area. If you are looking for something more adventurous, zipline or go on a hot-air balloon ride high above the vineyards.
Foodies can find farm-to-table spots that highlight local produce. Share a romantic meal at The Girl and the Fig with French dishes like duck confit and wild mushroom risotto. While you are in Sonoma you need to stop by Vella Cheese Co. where they have been making handmade gourmet cheeses for 90 years.
7. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of my favorite outdoor towns in America, and winter is one of the most romantic times to visit. With fewer crowds, the temperature is perfect for hiking through red rock formations for all of the cute couple pictures you want to take.
If you want a breathtaking view, visit Cathedral Rock Trail or take a sunset tour on horseback. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a Catholic Church built into the red rock formations, right before seeing the sunset at Airport Plaza.
Snuggle with your partner at L’Auberge de Sedona, where rooms feature fireplaces and outdoor cedar showers. Enjoy a couples massage at the spa and sit under the stars in a heated pool.
8. Key West, Florida
Trade the snow for tropical breezes and laid-back vibes in Key West. The temperature in this beautiful Florida destination rarely drops below 70 degrees, and there is plenty of sunshine to go around.
Rent bikes and ride through Old Key West or a sunset sail on a catamaran goes well with a glass of bubbly. Spend a day on the beaches and then go kayaking after sunset with your sweetheart. The glass bottom kayaks have lights underneath so you can see the marine life below.
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to greet the famous six-toed cats, then grab a drink at one of the many beach bars.
9. Austin, Texas
Mild winter weather lets you walk hand in hand around Lady Bird Lake without heavy layers. The summer temperatures in Austin can be sweltering while the winter temperatures are quite pleasant.
Live music pulses through the city and can energize any evening out. Food trucks tempt you with every kind of cuisine imaginable.
If you’d rather explore on wheels, rent a bike or scooter and zip around downtown. Tacos at midnight always seem to hit the spot when you want a casual nightcap. Texas Hill Country sits right outside the city for a quick getaway involving scenic drives and winery stops.
10. Santa Monica, California
The famous pier remains a fun spot even when the ocean breeze feels brisk. Grab a soft blanket and watch the famous California sun sink into the waves without a big crowd.
Main Street brims with quirky stores, street artists, and sweet treats. The bike path lets you cruise the shoreline and soak in that salty air. Rooftop bars around town present ocean views with fewer tourists around in winter.
It’s easier to wander the Third Street Promenade without huge lines this time of year.
Allison Manning
Allison Manning is the creative mind behind Simply Stunning Content. With more than 20 years of writing experience under her belt, she is a master of creating captivating content that connects with audiences of all types. When she’s not working on new content you can find her cooking, reading, or listening to a very eclectic library of music.
When she’s not working, she prioritizes her family above everything else. Whether it’s spending quality time with her loving husband, three amazing kids, or her faithful dog, family is where she finds her joy and inspiration. She strives to make every piece of content she creates simply stunning.
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