Places to Travel in February (my favorite winter getaways!)
Whether you’re chasing winter sun on Valentine's Day, looking for cultural festivals, or into snowy adventures for Presidents' Day, February is an underrated month for a road trip. Here are my favorite February places and what to experience in each.
Cape Canaveral, Florida
This was one of my favorite places to visit in February and I especially loved warm weather, dreamy beaches.
We flew into Orlando International Airport (MCO), and drove about an hour east to Cape Canaveral for a long weekend. I toured the Kennedy Space Center (of course!), watched cruise ships in Port Canaveral, and spent lots of time just relaxing on sandy beaches. I also couldn't resist Pepper Seared Tuna ($16.99) and Shrimp Poke ($16.99) at at Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar.
We settled in for two sunny days in a One Bedroom Suite with a Kitchenette at 3-star Radisson Resort at the Port (around $205) this February trip was a highlight.
- Average February temperature: 56°F – 72°F (13°C – 22°C)
If you loved this Florida vacation idea in February, check out more places to visit in Florida!
A downside? Airfares to Orlando can be high on weekends in February. I recommend a mid-week trip.
Lubbock, Texas
I found this unique city of approximately 275,000 made the perfect February destination! Our winter trip began with a drive through the Texas High Plains Wine Country. This was a chilly month even in Texas, but mid-day is ideal for exploring. I also learned it was prime time for stargazing on the High Plains when we moved to Texas.
We also enjoyed the trails at Lubbock Lake Landmark, admired the bold murals downtown, and lingered in the fascinating Buddy Holly Center ($10 General admission). Lated I picked up gifts in the Depot District.
- Average February temperature: 31°F – 60°F (-1°C – 16°C)
Local Tip: Keep an eye on the weather in February. We usually get at least one winter storm and if there's even a little snow, there are travel delays.
Daphne, Alabama
Ready for a February trip to the South? Check out coastal Alabama! I loved visiting Daphne on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Why? We enjoyed ocean views, the trails were quiet, and the town was very relaxed. You'll find it about 20 minutes from Mobile so it's really easy to get to.
We checked into the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa over the weekend. I had reservations for a massage at the spa as soon as we arrived. During our weekend, we enjoyed the Bayfront Park, took heaps of sunset photos, and ate lots of affordable seafood.
- Average February temperature: 44°F – 64°F (7°C – 18°C)
What I loved best:
I loved that Daphne was such a unique destination for foodies, especially great seafood at Boudreaux's Cajun Grill, Kraver's Seafood Restaurant, and Market by the Bay.
Floyd, Virginia
I fell hard for this mountain retreat with a creative twist! I loved visiting this Blue Ridge town in southwestern Virginia in February. To me, just the scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway was worth it.
We visited the Floyd Center for the Arts, stopped for tea at Red Rooster Coffee Roaster, and went for a short hike in Rocky Knob Recreation Area. We caught Friday Night Jamboree at the iconic Floyd Country Store.
- Average February temperature: 44°F – 64°F (7°C – 18°C)
What I loved best:
We found a great deal on a cozy Appalachian cabin in February which made this trip very affordable. You can also stay at 2-star Hotel Floyd (around $121).
New Orleans, Louisiana
I loved finding this city in February alive with color, music, and celebration. The city hummed with anticipation for Mardi Gras. In addition, it was a place where history, culture, and joy collided in unforgettable ways.
- Average February temperature: 50°F – 66°F (10°C – 19°C)
- Location Map
- Location: In southeastern Louisiana along the Mississippi River, near the Gulf, east of Baton Rouge
What stood out most was the rhythm of the city: jazz spilling from hidden courtyards, beads hanging from balconies, and neighborhoods each offering their own flavor of the season. Even beyond the parades, February in New Orleans is a time when art, food, and community are at their peak, creating a citywide festival atmosphere.
What I loved best:
Staying at the elegant 3-star Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery — I especially loved our exposed brick room for two days, the beautifully curated local art throughout the halls, and the hotel’s warm, quietly stylish vibe. The on-site coffee bar made me slow down in the morning on vacation, and being just a short walk from the French Quarter meant I could step from calm, cozy interiors straight into the electric energy of the city.
Central Park, NYC
I took a trip to New York in February and I didn’t regret my decision! When we lived in NYC for 10 years, February was in many ways the most romantic month after snowfall. I think that horse carriage rides are especially romantic in the snow like you see in my photos.
We spent a rejuvenating long weekend strolling past Bow Bridge, admiring the stillness of The Lake, and walking past Bethesda Terrace. We climbed up to Belvedere Castle for skyline views, and warmed up with hot chocolate from a tiny nearby café.
- Average February temperature: 29°F – 43°F (-2°C – 6°C)
What I loved best:
One of the absolute highlights was gliding across the ice at Wollman Rink, right in front of the iconic Plaza Hotel. We had Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court afterwards, an iconic destination for over 100 years!
Phoenix, Arizona
I thought that this desert city was a wonderful gem and quickly became one of my favorite places to go for sunshine, scenery, and a relaxed pace.
I found that February was an ideal time to visit — warm enough to enjoy the desert sunshine without the summer intensity, wonderfully quiet on the trails, and touched with that golden winter light that makes the Sonoran landscape glow like a painting. I even caught the first desert blooms popping up along the foothills.
I flew in and spent three easygoing yet unforgettable days basing myself at the stylish, wellness-focused Scottsdale Camelback Resort (around $499/night) in a Monterey Villa with Terrace, and a luxurious Jetted bathtub, perfect for relaxing after long hikes and sun-soaked afternoons.
I wandered among the towering saguaros of South Mountain Park, explored the sculptural red sandstone formations of Papago Park, and soaked in sweeping views of the whole valley from Camelback Mountain and Dobbins Lookout.
- Average February temperature: 49°F – 72°F (9°C – 22°C)
What I loved best:
Strolling through the Desert Botanical Garden at dusk, the air still warm and fragrant with creosote, I watched as glowing art installations lit up the cacti and agave, my favorite highlight.
If you loved this city, check out more places to visit in Arizona!
Albuquerque
Set along the Rio Grande, this was one of the most striking high-desert destinations I’ve ever explored on a road trip, and I thought it was one of the most underrated winter getaways in the Southwest. There were heaps of amazing things to do here!
I drove about six hours from my home in central Texas and spent five relaxed days in a vacation rental, exploring. What I love about visiting Albuquerque is that it’s easy to navigate and packed with unique culture, food, and outdoor experiences that make it perfect for a full (or even half) day of exploring. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and starting early—especially if you plan to explore Old Town or spend time outdoors, since the city has a lot to offer and the sun can be strong.
Getting around Albuquerque is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying near Downtown, Old Town, or Nob Hill, you can walk to many attractions, but I recommend renting a car or using rideshare if you want to see more in one day. Albuquerque’s public bus system (ABQ RIDE) is affordable—fares are around $1 per ride—but travel times can be longer than driving. I prefer driving here because it gives you the flexibility to explore nearby sights like the Sandia Mountains or Route 66 spots without feeling rushed.
If you make the trip to Albuquerque, I highly recommend starting in Old Town. This historic area is full of adobe buildings, local shops, museums, and great New Mexican restaurants. From there, you can head to the Albuquerque Museum, stroll through Tiguex Park, or walk along the Rio Grande Bosque for a peaceful break from the city. If you’re up for it, taking the Sandia Peak Tramway is a must—the views from the top are incredible and give you a whole new perspective of the city.
I also immersed myself in the rich cultural exhibits at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center ($12 adult general admission). My favorite souvenir was a small hand-thrown bowl glazed in deep turquoise — a simple, beautiful reminder of the desert palette I fell in love with.
One thing to keep in mind is that Albuquerque is fairly spread out, and it’s easy to spend a lot of time driving without really diving into the highlights. On my first visit, I hopped aboard the TourABQ trolley for a fun, breezy overview of the city’s neighborhoods and hidden history (a great way to get your bearings early in the trip). In addition, I found that tours with a local guide were a great way to understand the city’s history, culture, and food scene while making the most of limited time.
- Average February temperature: 28°F – 56°F (-2°C – 13°C)
What I loved best:
Watching sunset from the Sandia Peak foothills was my favorite highlight. The sky shifted through shades of rose and gold as the city lights blinked awake below me. The winter air was crisp enough to keep the trails quiet, and the stillness made the view feel almost private.
Auckland
Since it's summer in the Southern Hemisphere, visiting Auckland in February was super cool. It was like having a second summer!
I loved walking along the waterfront near Viaduct Harbour, took a ferry to Waiheke Island nearby, and hiking up Mount Eden for the best views of the city.
What I loved best:
Dining at Amano was my personal highlight. I had the snapper crudo lifted with citrus and chilli, followed by a crisp basil gimlet.
We stayed at the stylish 4-star Hotel Indigo Auckland (about $146/night) for an easygoing four days.
San Antonio, Texas
Less than two hours from my house near Austin, we enjoyed warm winter sunshine in San Antonio on our dreamy Texas weekend getaway.
In February, the weather was mild and perfect for exploring the River Walk without the summer crowds. I found it easy to stroll, dine outdoors, and soak in the charm of a city that feels both lively and laid-back.
Visiting here on a day trip this month, just 1.5 hours by car from my home, turned out to be an amazing decision — mild sunshine warmed the historic Spanish architecture, the River Walk shimmered beneath blooming cypress trees, and the city’s easygoing blend of culture, history, and Tex-Mex flavor made it feel like the perfect early-year escape for me!
By this month, the whole city felt wide open — museums quiet but lively, the missions glowing in soft afternoon light, and the River Walk buzzing with mariachi music and fragrant patios. I also caught the vibrant San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and found out that the exciting Cowboy Breakfast tradition also took place this month.
- Average February temperature: 45°F – 68°F (7°C – 20°C)
What I loved best:
For me, San Antonio is one of the best places to travel in February. It's unique, affordable and my favorite escape I can’t wait to return to!
Dining at Acenar along the River Walk was my favorite highlight. I was completely won over by the seared shrimp in smoky chipotle sauce, paired with a bright prickly pear margarita that felt as vivid and refreshing as the warm evening air drifting over the river!
If you loved this city, check out more places to visit in Texas!
Darlinghurst, Sydney
I thought Darlinghurst was such a cool place to explore when we visited in February! If you are flying from the USA, chances are that your flight to Auckland will be routed through Sydney so I recommend stopping here for a few days as well. Darlinghurst, Sydney is such a cool neighborhood to explore when it's warm out in February.
We especially enjoyed Oxford Street which is full of cafés and colorful storefronts. We stopped for dinner at Restaurant Moon to celebrate our anniversary and it was absolutely perfect on a warm February evening.
- Average February temperature: 66°F – 79°F (19°C – 26°C)
What I loved best:
I thought that Darlinghurst, Sydney was one of the best places to visit in February. My personal highlight was browsing the independent boutiques around the neighborhood.
I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge!
