The Best Places to Visit in February in the USA in 2026! 

Feb 13, 2025

Last Updated on: Jun 1, 2026

Travel Blog

The month of February is definitely a magical time to explore the USA. As winter still holds the nation in its grasp.  

This particular time of the year provides a fascinating combination of scenic winter landscapes, exciting culture events, travel deals in the off-season, and the first sprouts of spring.  

Regardless of the preferences for sunshine and warm beaches, beautiful national parks, tranquil retreats, and exciting city breaks, February combines the perfect destinations for all kinds of travelers. 

Following is a detailed, informative, and relevant guide to the best places to visit in the USA for February 2026, including what to expect, activities to plan, climatic conditions, highlights, and tips to keep in mind for your travel plans. 

Why February is a Great Time to Travel Within the USA? 

It is positioned in the middle of the winter holiday period and the spring break travel peak with the activities illustrated below: 

  • Lower travel costs (airfare and accommodation prices often come down) 
  • Fewer crowds in tourist spots 
  • Seasonal events: Think Mardi Gras or the Chinese New Year 
  • Winter sports in optimal conditions 
  • Warm-weather vacations before the crowds build for spring break 

Depending on whether you are interested in snowshoeing in Alaska, visiting cities in the mild temperature zones of the South, or simply soaking up the rays on a beach.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana – Mardi Gras & Beyond 

New Orleans Louisiana  

It cannot go without mentioning Mardi Gras since New Orleans is practically a brand name for this festival. February is when it all comes together.

Mardi Gras 2026 will take place on Tuesday, February 17. 

What to Do 

  • Parade Season (Krewe parades) – From Family-Friendly Routes to Grand Parades and Super 
  • Celebrations in the French Quarter – Live Jazz & Outdoor Parties 
  • Beignets and Coffee at Café du Monde 
  • Steamboat Natchez Cruise on the Mississippi 
  • Historic Garden District tours 

Weather 

Expect mild winter conditions: 

  • Average daytime highs: 60-70°F 
  • Chances of cooler nights 

Travel Tips 

  • Reserve a hotel stay well in advance (especially in the downtown/W 
  • Wearing comfortable shoes for parade marching 
  • Think about moving somewhere that is accessible by public transport links 

2. Honolulu, Hawaii – Winter Sun & Island Culture 

San Antonio Texas  

February happens to be one of the best months to indulge in the weather, whale watching, and a milder atmosphere compared to the peak season of summer, ideal for both relaxation or activity-packed travel.

What to Do 

  • Explore Waikiki Beach 
  • Hike Diamond Head Crater 
  • Road to Hana (Maui) or Na Pali Coast (Kauai) 
  • Luau experiences and snorkeling 

Weather 

  • Highest recorded temperatures: 78°-82 
  • Warm sea temperatures 

Travel Tips 

  • Book a whale tour early; winter season offers the highest chances of spotting whales 
  • Show respect to the efforts of the locals to 
  • Try local plate lunches and shave ice 

3. Park City, Utah – Ski Town at Its Finest 

Palm Springs California  

Park City may very well be among the finest ski resorts in the U.S. The snow conditions in February are always excellent with plenty of fresh powder. 

What To Do 

  • Skiing or snowboarding at the Park City Mountain Resort 
  • Luxury Spas and After Ski Hot Tubs 
  • Historic Main Street shopping 
  • Snowmobile and snowshoeing tours 
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Snowy Valleys 

Weather 

  • Cold and snowy winters. 
  • Highs: 30°F to 40°F (-1) 

Travel Tips 

  • Airport access from Salt Lake City (about 45 to 60 minutes) 
  • Book your lift tickets and equipment rentals in advance 
  • Sport or outdoor layered clothing 

4. Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm & Mild Climate 

Kauai Hawaii  

Savannah is a beautiful historic city with mild winters. So, if you live in a cold area, Savannah will be a great option. 

What to Do 

  • Walking tours of Historic Districts 
  • River Street exploration 
  • Forsyth Park, and its beautiful fountains 
  • Haunted ghost tours 
  • Food experience (Lowcountry cuisine) 

Weather 

  • Mild and agreeable 
  • Highs: 60° to 

Travel Tips 

  • February may experience some rainfall; therefore, one needs to pack layers. 

Take guided tours for history, photography, or food 

5. Aspen, Colorado – Classic Rocky Mountain Winter 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee  

Aspen is famous for winter sports, luxury resorts, as well as alpine flair. Winter is marked by heavy snow with optimal conditions for all winter-related activities. 

What to Do 

  • Ski Aspen Mountain and Snowmass  
  • Snowcat tours 
  • Ice skating at Silver Circle 
  • Fine Dining & Apres-Ski Lounges 
  • Shopping in Aspen’s fashionable downtown 

Weather 

  • Cold with lots of snow 
  • Highs: 30-40ºF (-1) 

Travel Tips 

  • Arrange for ski schools and ski tours in advance 
  • Think about lift tickets that encompass multiple mountains

6. Charleston, South Carolina – Historic Elegance 

Charleston has historical charm, pleasant temp and rich cultural offerings minus the summertime horde. 

What to Do 

  • Carriage tours of the Historic District 
  • Rainbow Row and waterfront park 
  • Plantation tours 
  • Culinary experiences (seafood and Southern cuisine) 
  • Art galleries and live music 

Weather 

  • Mild with spring notes 
  • Highs: 60–65ºF 

Travel Tips 

  • Early bookings for plantation visits 
  • sample local dishes such as shrimp and grits

7. Sedona, Arizona – Red Rocks & Spiritual Vibe 

Sedona’s red rock formations and clarity of the desert make for a warmer outdoor experience, which is ideal for both hiking and photography. 

What to Do 

  • Hiking at Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Devil’s Bridge 
  • Jeep tours 
  • Stargazing 
  • Art galleries and local boutiques 
  • Wellness retreats 

Weather 

  • Cool and dry 
  • Highs: 55 to 60ºF 

Travel Tips 

  • Hikes at sunset provide wonderful lighting 
  • Expect temperature fluctuations 

8. Key West, Florida – Tropical Escape 

Key West’s peak months of the year weather-wise are in February, when the climate is warm, sunny, and ideal for water sports, yet it’s neither humid nor stormy like the summer months. 

What to Do 

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving 
  • Sunset Sail on Mallory Square 
  • Visit Hemingway House 
  • Biking  
  • Seafood restaurants and lively bars 

Weather 

  • Highs: 75-80 

Travel Tips 

  • Preliminary reservations for a boat ride 
  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen 

9. San Diego, California – Mild Weather & Outdoor Life 

The warm climate, beaches, and attractions of San Diego make this one of the favorite off-season destinations in the southwest. 

What to Do 

  • Museums and gardens of Balboa Park 
  • La Jolla Cove Kayaking 
  • Nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter 
  • San Diego Zoo 
  • Coronado Island 

Weather 

  • Daily high temperatures: 65°-70 

Travel Tips 

  • The beach water might be chilly. Wear a thin wetsuit. 
  • Local breweries and food establishments 

10. Anchorage, Alaska – Northern Lights & Winter Wilderness 

February is among the best months in Alaska when one can spot aurora borealis, thanks to its prolonged nights and clear atmosphere. 

What to Do 

  • Dog Sledding 
  • Snowmobiling on frozen lakes 
  • Winter festivals 
  • Wildlife tourism 

Weather 

  • Very cold, snowing 
  • Highs: 10–25°F (-12) 

Travel Tips  

  • Dress in base layers and insulated outerwear 
  • Arrange book aurora tours with expert guides 

11. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Snow Sports & Scenic Views 

Winter sport terrain around Lake Tahoe is legendary for deep snow and a great combination of chill and epic skiing. 

What to Do 

  • Skiing & Snowboard 
  • Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing 
  • Ice Skating 
  • Casino nightlife at the Nevada side 
  • Lake trips in winter 

Weather 

  • Snowy and cold 
  • Highs: 30-40°F (-1) 

Travel tips 

  • Check the weather to see if you can travel by road through the mountain passes 

12. Miami, Florida – Warm Weather and City Life 

Miami’s ideal winter climate and rich nighttime entertainment options make it one of the favorite destinations of tourists preferring sunny weather, culture, and beaches. 

What to Do 

  • South Beach 
  • Art Deco Historic District 
  • Little Havana 
  • Everglades day trip 
  • Ocean Drive dining 

Weather 

  • Days: 24-27°C 

Travel Tips 

  • If you are looking for a less crowded experience, you may consider going earlier in the day for the following:  
  • Visiting the museums and 
  • Rent a boat to visit Biscayne Bay 
  • Visit Ernest Hem 

13. Joshua Tree, California – Desert Adventure & Stargazing 

Joshua Tree is just right for wintering in a desert environment – warm days and cool evenings. 

What to Do 

Hiking and Bouldering 

  • Star Gazing 
  • Photography at Hidden Valley 
  • Local arts and music events 
  • Discover unusual desert plants 

Weather 

  • Weather Highs: 60–65ºF 
  • Nights: It could be cool 

Travel Tips 

  • Layers for temperature fluctuations 
  • Booking of camping sites, if required 

14. Tucson, Arizona – Outdoor Culture & Bloom Previews 

Tucson has desert treks, rich culture, and early spring bloom activity – ideal for nature enthusiasts and food aficionados alike. 

What to Do 

  • Saguaro National Park hiking 
  • Mission San Xavier del Bac 
  • Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum 
  • Food tours with local cuisine 
  • Downtown arts district 

Weather 

  • Highs: 65-70ºF 

Travel Tips 

  • February is good weather before the heat of spring arrives 
  • Discover early morning best times for wildlife observations 

15. Austin, Texas – Festivals, Food & Live Music 

Austin’s vibrant and musical culture comes alive during the month of February. 

What to Do 

  • Live music venues 
  • Shopping South Congress 
  • Experiences for BBQ & Tex-Mex food 
  • Outdoor Spaces in Zilker Park 
  • Museums and art galleries 

Weather 

Highs: 65-70ºF 

Travel Tips 

  • Check local event calendars for concerts, festivals, etc. 
  • Go on a food truck crawl 

16. Big Bend National Park, Texas – Desert Magnificence 

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area presents exciting scenery for hiking and exploring the desert or river scenery, with temperatures in the mild winter months. 

What to Do  

  • Hiking Santa Elena Canyon  
  • River rafting (subject to weather conditions)  
  • Primitive camping under desert skies  
  • Stargazing in Dark Sky land  
  • Hot springs near the Rio Grande  

Weather  

  • Highs: 60-65ºF 
  • Nights may be cool  

Travel Tips  

  • Plan for tough terrain journeying  
  • Conditions before going to the backcountry

Seasonal Events and Festivals in February 2026  

Here are a few seasonal events and festivals in USA during February.  

  1. Mardi Gras – New Orleans, LA  

Parades, floats, music, and cultural events for weeks on end.  

  1. Chinese New Year Festivities  

Big festivals in cities such as:  

  • San Francisco (largest Chinatown in Asia, outside of Asia anyways)  
  • New York City  
  • Los Angeles  
  1. Winter Carnival – St. Paul/Minneapolis 
  • MN Outdoor snow sculptures, parades, and winter celebration events.  
  • South Beach Wine & Food Festival, Miami, FL 
  • One of the country’s leading culinary events.  
  1. Holiday Packages 
  • Ranging from candlelit dinners in Savannah, GA, to beachside stays in Key West.  
  1. Winter Blues Arts Festivals  
  • In smaller towns and artistic communities.  
  • There are often winter-themed parties or gallery openings.

February Travel Tips for 2026  

Here are a few traveling tips if you wanna visit the USA in February of 2026; 

  1. Pack for Variable Weather  
  • Warm Clothing for Cold Places  
  • Sunscreen for warm climates  
  • Waterproofing gear in case of traveling through a snow-filled region  
  1. Watch for Off-Season Deals  
  • There are discounts from airlines and hotels available in February  
  • Book as early as possible for peak events such as Mardi Gras  
  1. Consider Transportation Needs  
  • Destinations in the mountains may need 4 days.  
  • Even in warm environments, there could still be a need for renting cars in order to travel. 
  1. Balance Indoor & Outdoor Activities  
  • Museums, art galleries, food tours is ideal during cooler times 
  • Remain excellent in slight or sunny warm weather 

Traveling In The USA 

Picking Your Ideal February Vacation Spot February is a month of contrast when winter is at its peak in some parts of the world and warm breezes kiss the faces of others.

It all depends on what kind of holiday you like:  

All of the above destinations have something very unique to offer in the month of February. Whether you are looking for snow to ski on, a festive beat at a Mardi Gras celebration. 

A warm sun on a beach, February is always a month to cherish when it comes to experiences to be had in the USA.

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 8, 2023

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Prepping For Your Winter Trip To Salt Lake City

BY  Barsha Sep 21, 2023

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Driving To Rio Celeste In Costa Rica From La Fortuna Or Liberia

BY  Sibashree Oct 22, 2026

Park your car at the Tenorio Volcano National Park lot at 8:15, and the trail to the Rio Celeste waterfall is yours, shared with birds and a few early hikers. The tour vans from La Fortuna and Guanacaste don't start pulling in until around 10 a.m. And that gap of nearly 2 hours is the best reason to drive yourself. Geography is the second reason. Rio Celeste lies in quiet farm country between the Arenal area and Guanacaste, near the small towns of Bijagua and Katira, with only one park entrance. But public transport barely reaches it (from the park you'd have to take a taxi to Upala, then catch a bus toward Ciudad Quesada). With a rental car, it turns into a relaxed morning stop on a day you'd be on the road anyway. Which road from La Fortuna, Liberia, or San José? Leaving La Fortuna, you head toward El Tanque on Route 142 and then join Route 4. You'll stay on Route 4 northbound for about 40 km, past San Rafael de Guatuso, until a park sign appears at Samen. Turn left there. The paved road runs about 19 km through Maquencal and the village of Rio Celeste, and the entrance sits on your left just after a bridge over the river (look down while you cross, because on a good day the water is already pale blue under you). Waze and Google Maps both get this one wrong. Near San Rafael de Guatuso, they'll try to turn you left off Route 4 onto an older road, and you should simply ignore them and carry on to Samen, where the pavement begins. Coming from Liberia, Route 1 (the Inter-American Highway) takes you south. Roughly 6 km short of Cañas, exit, go under the highway, and pick up Route 6 toward Upala. Route 6 is good asphalt for the 22 km or so to Bijagua. Once in town, the park sign tells you to turn right, and from there the side road is paved right up to the entrance. It's steep in spots, though; it turns slick once it rains, and you'll cross a couple of one-lane bridges where whoever is already on the bridge has the right of way. What about San José and SJO airport? Plan on about 3.5 hours, which is why most people landing at SJO slot Rio Celeste into the drive from Arenal to the Guanacaste beaches. Starting pointMain roadsDrive timeRoad surfaceWhat to watchLa FortunaRoute 142, then Route 4, turn at SamenAbout 1.5 hoursPaved the whole wayApps sending you off Route 4 too soonLiberia (LIR)Route 1, then Route 6, turn at BijaguaAbout 1.5 hoursPaved, with a steep last stretchSlippery climb after rain and one-lane bridgesBijaguaPark road from the town centerAbout 20 minutesPavedSteep, and slick in the wet Older trip reports still circulate with stories of broken roads, spinning tires and passengers climbing out to walk uphill so the car could make it. Those days are gone. Both approaches are paved now, and neither one requires a 4x4. But a 4x4 can still earn its keep. That Bijagua climb is exactly the sort of wet, steep pavement where a compact SUV with decent ground clearance feels a lot calmer than a small sedan, and the potholes multiply in September and October, the 2 wettest months of the year. And if Rio Celeste is just one stop on a bigger loop with gravel elsewhere, rent for the roughest road on your itinerary rather than for this one. Flying into Liberia makes things simple, since you can collect the car at the airport and drive straight south toward Bijagua. Jumbo Car has an office near LIR with a free shuttle from the terminal. Its quoted prices already include the mandatory insurance, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pick-up. When you compare a rental car costa rica booking with them, you'll see a fleet that goes from economy cars up to a Suzuki Vitara or a Kia Sportage 4x4. Tickets, parking, and park rules Most people who get turned away at Río Celeste get turned away over tickets. SINAC, the national park service, sells them online only and in advance, and there's no booth at the gate to bail you out. You'll have to create an account before you can buy (the site has an English version). Do it the night before from your hotel Wi-Fi, because cell coverage around the park drops in and out and the parking lot is a bad place to discover that. ItemWhat appliesEntry, foreign visitors$12 per adult, $5 per child aged 2 to 12Opening hoursDaily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., last entry at 2 p.m.ParkingRoughly ₡2,000 to ₡3,000, cash on arrivalRestroomsEntrance only, nothing along the trailSwimmingBanned everywhere in the parkFood and bottlesNo food (babies get some leeway), no single-use plastic bottles Rangers do go through bags, and anything on the banned list stays with them. Bring a refillable bottle and keep a photo of your passport on your phone, since they sometimes ask for it. Parking is easy. The main lot next to the ranger station is large, overflow spaces sit across the road, and attendants keep an eye on the cars (still, leave nothing in sight). But before you plan a whole day around the waterfall, check whether you can see it. In August 2025 a landslide buried the bottom of the 250 steps leading down to the falls. As of early 2026 the lower stairs and the viewing platform hadn't reopened, which meant you only got a view from partway down. Look at the SINAC site and recent visitor reports during the week before your trip. The trail and how long it takes You leave the ranger station on a flat paved path that turns to gravel after about 15 minutes. After that it's ordinary dirt trail, with a stream to cross and a few short, steep pitches, and roughly 30 minutes in you're standing at the top of the waterfall stairs. The falls drop about 90 meters into a deep blue pool. A lot of people see that and head back. And that's a fair choice, because the second half is rougher going, all roots, mud and steep climbs and descents. It takes you past the Poza Azul pool, then the Borbollones, where the water bubbles and you'll catch a whiff of sulfur. It ends at Los Teñideros, the spot where two clear rivers meet and the water goes blue. Is it worth the extra slog? If you have the legs and the time, yes, since the color change is the reason the river has its name. There's no loop. The trail stops at Los Teñideros and you retrace your steps, so budget 1 to 2 hours if you only want the waterfall and 3 to 4 hours for the full trail. Wear shoes you're happy to throw away afterward. This flank of the volcano gets heavy rain, and the mud on the far section will pull a sneaker clean off your foot. When the water is bluest December to April is your window if you have any choice. Rain stirs sediment into the river, and a few wet days in a row turn that turquoise into something dull and milky. Stuck with the rainy season? Then go the morning after a dry night, never the afternoon after a storm. The hour you show up counts too, though for other reasons. Get there at 8 or 8:30 a.m. and you're ahead of the tour buses that roll in around 10 a.m., walking in cooler air (the low 70s °F early on). And because last entry is 2 p.m., an early start leaves enough daylight to drive on to Liberia or back to La Fortuna without doing the gravel stretches in the dark. Frequently asked questions about Rio Celeste Is Rio Celeste still closed? The park itself was open in early 2026. But the lower stairs and the waterfall viewing platform stayed shut after a landslide in 2025, so look at the SINAC page again a day or two before you go. Can you swim in the Rio Celeste? No, not within Tenorio Volcano National Park, Poza Azul included. If you want to get wet, the tubing tours run on stretches of river outside the park boundary. How long does it take to hike to Rio Celeste? Count on roughly 30 minutes from the ranger station to the top of the waterfall stairs, then 250 steps down. Walking the whole trail out to Los Teñideros and back takes 3 to 4 hours. Is it worth going to Rio Celeste, Costa Rica? In the dry season with an early start, yes. It sits between Arenal and Guanacaste, so with a car it fits into a single morning on the way. After a week of heavy rain, the color washes out, and skipping it is a reasonable call. Read Also: Costa Rica: Best Beaches For Family Vacation 7 Benefits Of Staying At A Beach Hotel