24 Best Places To Travel in January for a Fantastic Vacay

 

January is that time of the year when the temperatures drop below zero, the sky is gloomy, and the Christmas high is long gone. You find yourself back in the office daydreaming, wishing you could be somewhere exotic and drinking fresh coconut instead.

But January doesn’t have to be a depressing post-Christmas month. There are plenty of ways to replace your holiday blues with exciting adventure and frosty weather with sunshine, whether it’s chilling on the exotic beach or roaming in jeeps on a desert safari in Dubai.

January is also a month of new beginnings and New Year’s resolutions.

“New year, new me” sounds good, but you know what sounds even better?

“New year, new me in a new place.”

So if you need some inspiration for warm winter vacations to kickstart your year on a high note, I’ve put together a list of the best places to travel in January for sun or winter activities.

Best Places To Travel in January for Warm Weather

If you’re after hot countries in January to escape winter, you have plenty of options to explore, especially in the Southern hemisphere. Just to give you some ideas, you can look into destinations in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

Here’s the list of the best holiday destinations in January:

  • Dubai
  • Thailand
  • Maldives
  • Kenya
  • Morocco
  • South Africa
  • Sri Lanka
  • Dominican Republic
  • Puerto Rico
  • Costa Rica
  • Australia

1. Dubai, UAE

woman walking on the beach in dubai is the best  places to travel in january
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: Desert safari, Dubai fountain, Burj al Arab, Burj Khalifa, La Mer beach, Old Dubai

Everybody knows that Dubai is the place to go for sun and sand. However, there is much more to this exciting city in the Middle East than this, whether it’s local Arabic cuisine, fancy nightclubs, or world-class shopping.

And, of course, Dubai is world-famous for its opulence and luxury. The world’s first seven-star hotel, the man-made palm-shaped island, and the tallest building are just a few top tourist attractions.

If you’re worried that visiting Dubai will cost you a fortune, you don’t have to be. There are plenty of free activities, such as strolling La Mer beach, browsing the traditional souk markets, or marveling at the Dubai fountain and Dubai aquarium inside a shopping mall.

The culture here is a fantastic blend of western and Arabic influences. As soon as you get off the airplane at Dubai International Airport, you’ll see men in traditional white long-sleeved robes and women wearing elegant black abayas. The good news is you’re free to wear anything you like. You only need to dress more modestly if you want to visit the mosque.

The highlight in Dubai is the desert safari. The safari starts with a thrilling jeep ride on the sand dunes. The jeep then escorts you to the Bedouin campsite, where you can have henna paintings, try on local dresses, ride a camel, and smoke shisha. As the sun sets down, a belly dancer performs to Arabic music, and there is also a delicious barbecue buffet.

2. Thailand

boats on the water in thailand
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: beaches, scuba diving, Thai massage, street food, Buddhist temples

January is one of the best months for a vacation in Thailand when it comes to weather. Most January days in Thailand are sunny, with very little rain and pleasant temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius (over 68°F).

Thailand has so much to offer that you could easily spend three months here and barely scratch the surface.

And it’s super affordable too! You could pamper yourself with Thai massages, eat 3-course meals, and stay in 5-star hotels for less than $100 a day.

Interested to discover more cheap places to travel in the world? Check this article.

You can start your Thailand adventure in Bangkok. It’s a great introduction to Thai culture.

Bangkok has an extensive list of temples, high-tech shopping malls with many bargains, iconic float markets, and delicious street food.

Wat Pho Temple, with the Buddha statue over 45 meters long, is definitely worth the visit.

The nightlife is also hard to beat. You can sip martinis in open-air spaces on top of skyscrapers with striking city views, or if you prefer something less fancy, you can party all night on the lively Khao San road.

Khao San road is a backpacker’s street where you can savor some cheap Thai delicacies, including Pad Thai and mango sticky rice. And if you’re curious to try some strange foods, fried insects are on the menu too. You’ll come across some interesting folks from around the world here.

One thing is for sure, Bangkok rarely fails to make the first impression, and yes, you may need to spend a few days on the beach to recover from all the hustle and bustle (or a hangover).

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is great for trekking and has incredible ancient temples. There is also a beautiful Elephant conservation center where you can experience elephants up close.

For the best beaches and laid-back vibes, head south. Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi are all safe bets if you only have limited time because of the direct daily flights from Bangkok airport. Also, a Thai spa is a must-try.

Phuket is one of Thailand’s main diving spots, offering day trips to nearby reefs.

3. Maldives

man and woman walking on bridge in maldives
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: luxury resorts with overwater bungalows, azure waters, scuba diving, snorkeling

Maldives is a luxury beach paradise and the ultimate romantic getaway.

Every resort in the Maldives is its own private island. With over 100 islands to choose from, the only problem is selecting the one you prefer.

But honestly, you can’t go wrong here, no matter which island you decide to go for. You can get to the islands by speed boat or seaplane from the capital city, Male.

Maldives is most known for its luxurious overwater bungalow resorts. And the best part is you can jump into the sea right from your room.

Maldives is also a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The colorful reefs, white sand, and crystal clear waters make it an unforgettable experience.

The only downside is that Maldives vacation can be quite pricey. However, if you have a lower budget, you can head to Maafushi island.

Just one thing to keep in mind, Maldives is a Muslim country. On Maafushi island, unlike other private islands, you’ll mingle more with locals. To respect local culture, you can swim in bikinis only on dedicated bikini beaches.

4. Kenya

man feeding giraffe
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: wildlife safari, Maasai culture, stunning beaches

Kenya is one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations, and for a good reason. The country is home to an incredible variety of wild animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more.

January is a perfect month for safaris in Kenya because of the clear viewing conditions.

A safari can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. You can go on game drives in one of the many national parks or visit a Maasai village to learn about the local culture.

After your safari adventure, you can venture to Kenya’s stunning beaches.

Some of the best beaches in Kenya are Diani Beach, Watamu Beach, and Lamu Island. Diani Beach is an excellent choice if you’re looking for luxury resorts, while Watamu Beach is perfect for budget travelers.

Lamu Island is a bit of both, with a good selection of mid-range and luxury hotels.

Whichever beach you choose, you’re sure to enjoy stunning views, clear waters, and relaxing vibes.

5. Morocco

exterior of wall in morocco
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: markets, medinas, Arabic architecture, food

Morocco is a North African country that’s becoming increasingly popular with tourists. The country has a lot to offer, from bustling souks (markets) and medieval medinas (towns) to stunning Arabic architecture and delicious food.

One of the best things to do in Morocco is to explore the markets, where you can find everything from spices and carpets to lanterns and pottery.

Make sure to haggle for a good price, as it’s expected (and part of the fun).

You can also explore many medieval medinas, which are like small towns within cities.

The architecture in Morocco is breathtaking and one of main Morocco’s appeals. You can admire intricate mosaics, arches, and tiled courtyards in places like Marrakech, Fez, and Chefchaouen.

I bet you’ll love staying in some traditional riad house with hidden courtyards and rooftop terraces.

And, of course, no trip to Morocco would be complete without trying Moroccan cuisine – from couscous and tagine to mint tea.

6. South Africa

animals laying on grass in south africa
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: wine country, wildlife safari, scenic drives, hiking, surfing

The first thing that often comes to mind when you hear South Africa is safari.

There are many national parks where you can see animals like lions, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Kruger National Park is one of the largest safari parks in SA, but there are many others to choose from.

Make no mistake. South Africa offers much more than safari.

South Africa has some of the best wines in the world. The Cape Winelands region is stunningly beautiful, with rolling hills, picturesque villages, and, of course, vineyards as far as the eye can see.

There are many scenic drives in South Africa to admire the beautiful landscapes. The Garden Route stretches about 200km between Mossel Bay and Storms River. Along the way, you’ll see forests, lagoons, beaches, and cliffs of Garden Route National park.

The Panorama Route is another popular choice, with dramatic views of Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world.

If you’re a fan of hiking, there are many trails to choose from in South Africa. Table Mountain and Lion’s Head are the most popular, with stunning views of Cape Town from the top.

Cape Town also has an epic food scene and surfing.

You can go on a hot air balloon ride or shark cage diving for an adrenaline boost.

Everyone knows about safaris in Africa but did you know that SA has penguins?

You can see them on Boulders beach, which is only a short drive from Cape Town.

7. Sri Lanka

men on stilts in ocean in sri lanka
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Sites, tea plantations, beaches – Bentota, elephants, leopards in Yala national park

Sri Lanka is a great choice if you’re looking for hot countries to travel in January.

The country has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Anuradhapura.

For the ultimate cultural experience, head south to Kandy, where you can explore the temples and palaces, as well as the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and one of the Elephant Sanctuaries in the area.

Attend an early morning puja ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth, and take in a nightly performance of the traditional, acrobatic Kandyan dancing.

Sri Lanka is well-known for its tea plantations, and a visit to one is an essential part of any trip to the country.

The most popular tea plantation to visit with stunning landscapes is the Nuwara Eliya. Here you can see how tea is made, from picking the tea leaves to drying and packing them. You can also buy various types of tea to take home with you.

Enjoy the afternoon exploring Nuwara Eliya, strolling through Victoria Park, and, to top it off, have afternoon tea on the terrace at the Grand Hotel.

Bentota is a great place to unwind on the beach, and there are some great backpacker-friendly beaches in the area, too, such as Unawatuna or Mirissa.

8. Dominican Republic

woman in ocean in dominican republic
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: sandy beaches – Bahía de Las Águilas, Rincon, whale watching, scuba diving, colonial architecture

The Dominican Republic is another dream winter getaway.

Picture hundreds of kilometers of coastline, white-sand beaches shaded by rows of palm trees, and serene mangrove lagoons.

The sea is undoubtedly the main draw to the Dominican Republic, whether it’s fishing villages with boats lined up along the shores or indulgent tourist resorts with azure waters.

In Santo Domingo, the capital of DR, you can explore the colonial architecture, visit the Alcazar de Colon (the oldest fortified Spanish palace in the Americas) and take a stroll through the Malecon, a seaside promenade.

Downtown Santo Domingo is packed with trendy clubs, craft cocktail bars, and hideaways with magnificent colonial-era courtyards and live music.

Beyond the capital, much of the Dominican Republic is rural. Driving through the country, you’ll see cows and horses eating grass alongside the roads and donkeys loaded with fresh, exotic fruit.

Not to mention that beaches here are postcard-perfect. Top beaches are Bahía de Las Águilas, Playa Rincon.

And guess what? You can even spot thousands of humpback whales congregating off the Península de Samaná. Mid-January to mid-March is ideal for whale watching in the Dominican Republic.

Besides the epic coastline, further inland, you’ll also find stunning mountain views.

9. Puerto Rico

umbrellas above street in puerto rico
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest, snorkeling & diving, beaches

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is one of the best countries to visit in January in the Caribbean. The city is rich in history and culture, and its colonial architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Old San Juan is the city’s historical center filled with beautiful colorful Spanish colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and plazas.

Fortaleza Street is the main shopping street in Old San Juan, lined with high-end stores and restaurants.

For outdoors, check out El Yunque National Forest. It’s a subtropical rainforest located in the northeastern part of Puerto Rico. The forest has epic waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic lookout points.

Puerto Rico is also known for some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the Caribbean. The island is surrounded by coral reefs full of marine life.

Many dive sites are located around Puerto Rico, and popular spots include La Parguera, Isla de Mona, and Fajardo.

Some of the best beaches include Luquillo Beach and Playa Sucia.

10. Costa Rica

woman walking on suspended bridge in costa rica
Image Credit: Unsplash

Highlights: Manuel Antonio National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Tortuguero National Park, beaches

Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise.

The country has incredibly lush vegetation and abundant wildlife.

There are countless national parks.

Manuel Antonio National Park, on the central Pacific coast, has beautiful beaches and lush jungle scenery.

Tortuguero National Park, on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, is known for its canals, which are home to various animals, including turtles, iguanas, monkeys, and crocodiles.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens is another must-see attraction with several impressive waterfalls, a butterfly garden, a hummingbird garden, and a wide variety of animals.

Some of the best beaches in Costa Rica are located on the Pacific coast. Playa Hermosa is a surfing hot spot.

11. Australia

camels at sunset
Image Credit: Savoteur

Highlights: Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Gold coast, kangaroos, koalas

Australia is a great place to visit in January, as the weather is warm and sunny.

Sydney is the capital and one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. The city is world-famous for its iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.

Just offshore from Sydney is the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system. The reef is home to abundant marine life and a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is famous for its large sandstone rock formation.

No trip to Australia would be complete without seeing koalas hugging trees and kangaroos hopping around. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary near Brisbane is one of the few places where you can hold the cutest koalas.

The Gold Coast is a coastal city located in the southeast corner of Queensland, Australia. The city is famous for its long sandy beaches and surfing. But there are many more beaches.

Best Warm Places to Visit in January USA

If you can’t wait for winter to be over, I have some destinations for you in the USA, too – from sunny California to tropical Hawaii.

The best warm places to go in January in the US are HawaiiFloridaCaliforniaArizonaTexasGeorgia, and Louisiana.

Here’s the detailed list of the best places to visit in January, USA, based on average temperature highs:

  • Hawaii – Kailua Kona (82°F), Lahaina (82°F), Kahului (81°F), Honolulu (80°F), Hilo (79°F)
  • Florida – Miami (76°F), Key West (74°F), Orlando (71°F), Daytona beach (68°F)
  • Arizona – Yuma (70°F), Phoenix (69°F)
  • California – Anaheim (71°F), Los Angeles (68°F)
  • Texas – Big Bend National Park (69°F)

12. San Diego, California

coastline of san diego
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: close dolphin encounters at SeaWorld, Balboa Park, Legoland, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, La Jolla Cove

San Diego is perfect for a sunny warm getaway in the US.

If you’re traveling with kids and looking for family-friendly activities, Legoland in San Diego is a must-visit attraction. It’s one of the world’s largest lego theme parks and has multiple rides, attractions, and shows. One of the highlights is Miniland, where you can see miniature models of iconic world landmarks like the Taj Mahal, the Sydney Opera House, and Mt. Rushmore.

If you love theme parks, Disneyland in Anaheim is only around an hour’s drive from Legoland.

Another great option for family fun is SeaWorld, where you can experience close-up encounters with dolphins.

For a scenic view and some fresh air, hike up to the top of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, take a walk along La Jolla Cove beach or visit Balboa park.

Balboa Park is an urban oasis with green walking paths, gardens, museums, theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.

13. Death Valley, California

woman in red dress in desert in death valley
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Mosaic Canyon, Ubehebe Crater

Death Valley is one of the hottest and driest places in North America. It gets unbearably hot in the summer, but you can comfortably spend a day trip here in January. Just be sure to wear layers as the temperatures can be a bit chilly when the sun goes down.

Despite its name, Death Valley is buzzing with life. You can see colorful wildflowers blooming in the spring, fields of golden grass in the fall, and a variety of wildlife like bighorn sheep and desert tortoises, so don’t let the name discourage you. Walk the sand dunes, visit the lowest point in North America or hike along hills.

Some of the highlights in Death Valley are the sunrise at Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), Mosaic Canyon, and Ubehebe Crater.

You might be interested in:

34 Family-Friendly California Wineries

Exploring California National Parks

14. Key West, Florida

ocean and dock and resort hotel in key west
Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Highlights: Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Southernmost Point Buoy, Dry Tortugas National Park, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, mangrove kayaking

Key West is an island city in Florida. An average temperature of 24°C (75°F) makes it one of the warmest places to visit in the US in January.

January is a great time for vacation in Key West if you want to beat the crowds. However, the downside is that weather can be a bit unpredictable.

Key West is known for its sunny days, clear turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. You can snorkel or scuba dive around the coral reefs, take a glass-bottom boat ride, go on a sunset cruise, or simply relax on the beach.

Some must-see attractions in Key West are Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Southernmost Point Buoy, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

You shouldn’t miss out on mangrove kayaking which is a unique experience. The mangroves are interesting trees that grow in warm climates near water. You can kayak surrounded by mangrove tree roots and explore the local waters.

Related Posts:

34 Fun Things to Do in Florida

15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

12 Best Places to Visit in Florida for Vacation

Miami to Key West Drive: Essential Road Trip Stops

15. Big Island, Hawaii

beach rocks ocean and trees in hawaii
Image Credit: Pexels

Highlights: Volcanoes national park, swimming with manta rays, Kona coffee tour, trekking, beaches

No list of the best places to visit in January for sun would be complete without Hawaii.

There’s so much to do on the Big Island that it’s hard to know where to start. You can explore Volcanoes National Park, take a Kona coffee tour, go trekking to see the stunning waterfalls, and of course, relax on the beach.

One of the most thrilling adventures on the Big Island is swimming with manta rays at night. You can snorkel or scuba dive with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Some of the best beaches on the Big Island are Hapuna Beach, Anaeho’omalu Beach, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.

Believe it or not, Papakolea Beach has olive green sand due to the presence of the mineral Olivine.

For coffee lovers, the Big Island is a must-visit, as it produces some of the best coffee in the world. You can visit a coffee plantation and learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup on the Kona coffee tour.

You might be interested:

How much Is a Trip to Hawaii for a Family of 4?

Stunning Must-Visit Spots in the Hawaiian Islands

16. Tuscon, Arizona

man and woman walking in tucson arizona
Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Highlights: Saguaro National Park, cactus forest drive, hiking, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area

Saguaro National Park is a desert oasis with towering cacti, mountains, and incredible sunsets. An easy way to explore the park is by driving or biking through the Cactus Forest Drive, an 8-mile loop road that takes you through the heart of the park.

Many hiking trails in Saguaro National Park suit all levels, such as the Javelina Peak Trail or Mica View Trail.

Make sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen with you, as it can get very hot in the desert.

Planning a trip to Arizona? Check these 16 Things to do in Arizona for an Unforgettable Trip.

17. Las Vegas, Nevada

people walking in las vegas
Courtesy Deposit Photos

Highlights: Gondola ride at the Venetian, Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, the Strip, M&M store, casinos, shows, and restaurants

Las Vegas doesn’t need much introduction. It’s home to some of the best casinos, restaurants, and shows in the world. In winter months, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and better deals, so your money goes further. The temperatures in January are still relatively pleasant compared to other states, with average highs around 12-15 °C (54-59°F).

The best way to explore Las Vegas is by walking along The Strip, a stretch of road with all the major casinos and hotels.

Some of the highlights of The Strip include the Venetian, with its canals and gondola rides; the Bellagio, with its iconic fountain show; the Caesars Palace, with its luxurious restaurants and shops and High Roller, North America’s tallest Ferris wheel.

There are also plenty of lesser-known attractions, such as the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, where you can see real flamingos, and the M&M Store, where you can buy all sorts of M&M-themed merchandise.

18. Beaufort, South Carolina

boardwalk in beaufort sc
Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Highlights: Hunting Island State Park, beaches, lighthouse

Hunting Island State Park is a nature lover’s paradise with miles of unspoiled beaches and forests. January means a quieter, more intimate time.

And the best part is that shrimp and oyster seasons are in full swing during the winter.

There are many outdoor activities to keep you entertained, such as fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and bird watching.

One of the park’s highlights is the Hunting Island Lighthouse, which offers stunning coast views.

Beaufort, South Carolina, is a charming town with a rich history. The downtown area is full of cute shops and restaurants, and there are several museums and historical sites worth visiting.

And guess what? Many famous movies have been filmed in Beaufort, including Forrest Gump.

Best Beaches To Visit in January USA

  • Maui, Hawaii
  • St Pete Beach, Florida
  • Laguna Beach, California
  • Grand Isle, Louisiana
  • San Diego, California
  • Orange Beach, Alabama
  • Kauai, Hawaii
  • Big Island, Hawaii
  • Santa Cruz, California
  • Fernandina beach, Florida
  • South Padre Island, Texas
  • Key West, Florida
  • South Beach, Miami, Florida
  • Oxnard, California
  • Long Key, Florida
  • Cannon beach, Oregon
  • Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina

Looking for more warm places in January, USA, that won’t break the bank? Check these 25 inexpensive US beach gateways in winter. 

Best Places to Travel in January USA For Winter Activities

I know you might not be keen on cold weather in January, but if skiing is your thing, you’ll love to hit the mountains. There are many amazing spots in the USA for winter sports & activities.

So what is the best state to visit in January for winter sports?

Here are a few of them:

  • Fairbanks, Alaska
  • Aspen, Colorado
  • Ketchum, Idaho
  • New York City, NY
  • Park City, Utah
  • Big Sky, Montana

19. Fairbanks, Alaska

Highlights: Northern Lights, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice museum, Chena hot springs

Alaska in winter is freezing cold but seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is totally worth it. No matter how cold it gets.

There are not many places in the US where you can see this natural beauty, but in Alaska, you might luck out.

Alaska is one of the best places to go in January if you aim to see northern lights, as the skies are nice and clear during this time of the year, and chances to spot aurora are high.

Other highlights in Fairbanks are dogsledding, touring an ice museum, snowmobiling scenic trails, and soaking in Chena Hot Springs.

20. Aspen, Colorado

Highlights: Alpine Coaster, Tubing, Snowcat Dinners, Skiing, Wintersköl, X-Games

Aspen is a winter wonderland in Colorado. The place is gorgeous with its glaciers, mountains, forests, and valleys.

The city is a mecca for winter sports lovers with activities like skiing, tubing, and snowmobiling. You can also take a ride on the Alpine Coaster, the longest downhill coaster in North America.

If you’re visiting Aspen in January, don’t miss out on the Wintersköl festival, which is a 10-day celebration of winter.

And if you’re into extreme sports, the X Games are held from 27-29 January.

21. Ketchum, Idaho

Highlights: skiing at Sun Valley, Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs, a spa day at Zenergy or Sun Valley Lodge, and sleigh rides

With its alpine setting and stunning scenery, Sun Valley in Idaho is one of the top ski destinations in the US.

Ketchum is the nearby ski resort town where you can find cozy accommodations and world-class dining.

If you want to relax and rejuvenate, spend a spa day at Zenergy or Sun Valley Lodge.

For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride or go to Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs, a natural hot spring located just 30 minutes drive outside of town.

You might be interested in:

31 Fun Things to Do in Idaho

22. New York City, New York

Highlights: ice skating in Central Park, Broadway show, New York-style pizza, frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity 3, and the museums

Yes, New York is a popular tourist trap in all four seasons, and in winter, it’s icy cold. But on the plus side, in January you’ll enjoy fewer visitors in this America’s largest city.

New York is known for its epic food scene. You can’t visit without trying New York-style pizza. Some of the classic pizzerias are Joe’s Pizza and Lombardi’s – America’s first pizzeria operating since 1905!

If you have a sweet tooth, you should go to Serendipity 3 for their world-famous frrrozen hot chocolate that can be savored either hot or cold. It comes with whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top.

If you love art and culture, you’ll be spoiled with choices in New York. Interesting museums are the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA (Museum of Modern Art).

And, of course, no visit to New York would be complete without seeing a Broadway show and ice skating in Central park.

For more ideas, check out:

10 Things to Do in New York at Least Once

23. Park City, Utah

Highlights: Sundance film festival, skiing, sleigh rides, fine dining at Viking Yurt, Last Friday Gallery Stroll

Utah’s largest ski resort, Park City, is a world-class winter destination. It is also the host city of the annual Sundance Film Festival which takes place in January and lasts ten days. Sundance Film Festival is also held in Salt Lake City.

If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, Park City has over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain.

For a unique and romantic experience, take a sleigh ride through the snow-covered streets of Park City. Then, to make your experience really count, you can end your evening by having a 4-hour classy dinner in Viking yurt.

And on the last Friday of every month, you can enjoy the Gallery Stroll, where you can explore the vibrant local art scene.

How to Make Park City Utah Perfect Winter Escape?

Best of the 5 Utah National Parks

24. Big Sky, Montana

Highlights: Skiing, Yellowstone National Park, Ousel Falls Trail, Lone Mountain Ranch

Situated in the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Big Sky resort is also relatively close to Yellowstone National Park, which is open year-round. You can go on guided snowshoe walks or go cross-country skiing.

One of the top things to do in Big Sky besides winter sports is to hike the Ousel Falls Trail. It’s an easy 1.7mile roundtrip hike with stunning views of waterfalls and mountains.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out cabins at Lone Mountain Ranch.

You can also arrange a dog sledding ride with Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures or Spirit of the North.

So, which January holiday destinations caught your eye the most?

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Travel Writer at Savoteur |  + posts

Casandra Karpiak is a travel writer and owner of Savoteur. A Toronto native with Danish roots currently residing in British Columbia, her travel writing has been seen on The Associated Press wire, MSN, FOX, CBS, NBC, Entrepreneur, 24/7 Wall St, Times Daily, and many more. When she’s not traveling, she can be found at hockey arenas all over BC cheering on her two young sons.