The cold weather creeps in and the days are shorter. You need some sunshine. Spring is nowhere in sight. This is about when you start looking for the best winter vacations in the US. What’s great about the US, is that you have plenty of options.
From west coast beaches to ski resorts, this post will provide some travel inspiration for your 2020 trip. We’ll not only highlight places to visit, but also credit cards to use. That way you can earn valuable points on spending that you’ll incur at one of these destinations.
Best Credits Cards to Use to Travel this Winter
For those of you knee-deep in points and miles, you are likely aware of the value of American Express, Chase, and Citi points. Each of these programs has a number of travel partners that can help make your trips more affordable. In addition to these 3 programs, Capital One and Marriott points can be transferred to their travel partners to book award flights.
American Express upped the ante with the Amex Gold Card. It earns 4X on dining and US grocery stores. The Chase Sapphire Reserve doesn’t lag far behind. This card earns 3X on dining and travel. Last but not least is the Citi Premier Card. Cardmembers earn 3X on gas and travel with this card.
Other American Express card options include the American Express Platinum (5X points on airfare) and the Amex Green Card (3X on dining and travel). Chase Sapphire Preferred cardmembers earn 2X on dining and travel. As a Citi Prestige cardmember, you’ll earn 5X on airfare and dining.
Business owners have options as well. The Chase Ink Business Preferred earns 3X on travel, among other bonus categories. Amex Business Platinum cardmembers earn 5X on airfare. Like the Amex Platinum, the Business Platinum comes with Centurion Lounge access.
In addition to these cards, business owners should check out the Chase Ink Business Cash and Chase Ink Business Unlimited. The Business Cash earns 5% cashback (cashback can be converted to points) at office supply stores, and on cable, internet, and phone services. Business Unlimited cardmembers earn 1.5% cashback (cashback can be converted to points) on every purchase.
Top 5 Best Winter Vacations in the US
With the earning side out of the way, let’s dive into the best winter vacations in the US. This list includes a healthy dose of beach destinations as I thoroughly enjoy spending time by the water. Also included are a hiker’s paradise and ski town.
San Diego, California
With a temperature range between 50-67 degrees in the winter, it’ll be hard to break a sweat in San Diego. If you’re after more than Coronado Beach, Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, Old Town, Seaport Village, and Torrey Pines Golf Course will keep you occupied.
Sedona, Arizona
Chapel of the Holy Cross and Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout are 2 can’t miss spots on any trip to Sedona. You also have Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Oak Creek Canyon, Red Rock State Park, and Slide Rock State Park. Wine lovers can check out the many wineries nearby including Javelina Leap and Page Springs Cellars.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is great to visit year-round, especially when it’s cold across most of the US. The Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach Boardwalk can get you away from the hustle and bustle that is LA. A growing Michelin Star restaurant will keep you well-fed during your stay.
Park City, Utah
Park City doubles as not only a great winter, but also a great summer destination. The city is an easy Lyft/Uber ride from Salt Lake City airport making it that much more appealing. If you’re looking for convenience and quality skiing this winter, head to Park City.
Kauai, Hawaii
The Graden Isle, better known as Kauai, is an outdoor traveler’s paradise. You can go whale watching off the Nā Pali Coast, relax on the beach at Hanalei Bay, and take a hike through Waimea Canyon State Park. Golfers should play a round at Poipu Bay Golf Course and close the day out at Shipwreck Beach.
Conclusion on the Best Winter Vacations in the US
As you can see, there are a ton of options to choose from in this best winter vacations in the US list. If the beach is what you’re after, San Diego, LA, and Kauai have you covered. Hikers and wine lovers will find everything you need in Sedona. Head to Park City for top-notch skiing.
What cities make your best winter vacations in the US list? Please let me know in the comments or by sending me an email on my contact page.
Disclaimer: If you click and/or sign up for a credit card through certain links on this site or any of my related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that click-through. The editorial content on this page and the user comments are not provided by any of the companies mentioned and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are mine alone.
