Best Places to Visit in January
I find that January is the perfect time to kick off the new year with travel, whether you’re seeking snowy adventures, sunny escapes, or cultural experiences. While I enjoy winter wonderlands, I love warm-weather retreats even better, and there are plenty of destinations that make January a great month to explore as I found during my four weeks road tripping around the USA this month. Here are the destinations I recommend, and I hope you’ll enjoy them too.
1. The Florida Keys
January temperatures are ideal here for snorkeling, diving among coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, or simply strolling through Key West, and that's why I love it here so much in the winter! In the past, I've avoided visiting during summer humidity and hurricane season so January was perfect for a relaxing week exploring this Florida island!
We drove down the Overseas Highway from Miami and explored for seven amazing days from our comfy base at an affordable vacation rental in Key West (you should keep in mind that hotels are pretty expensive here in January due to high season pricing).
I was happy to see lots of local events and festivities happening like Key West Food & Wine Festival and Mallory Square Sunset Celebration (free).
I loved how much there was to see and do in addition to stunning tropical beaches, including exploring state parks like Bahia Honda and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park ($8 per vehicle), visiting marine life attractions such as the Turtle Hospital ($35 for a 90-minute tour, reservations recommended) and Dolphin Research Center ($36, open 7 days per week), and historic sites like The Hemingway Home and Museum ($19 adult admission, $7 for kids 6-12 years old, free under 5 years old).
I adored our morning at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory ($17.50), followed by lunch at La Grignote just around the corner where my ham and cheese sandwich was delicious!
- Average January temperature: 64.5 °F – 75.7 °F (18.1 °C – 24.3 °C)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My highlight was simply walking around Old Town Key West, admiring the architecture and pink bougainvillea. I also loved sitting on Sunset Pier in Key West with a cool drink and a light snack while looking out over the water.
2. Lorton, Virginia
I found that January was the perfect time to visit this town just a 30-minute day trip from my base in D.C., a small town that blended history, nature, and cozy winter vibes in such a cool way. I loved how Lorton transformed into a quiet winter retreat, with bare oak and maple trees, frosted meadows, and the peaceful atmosphere of Northern Virginia’s countryside.
I absolutely adored exploring Mason Neck State Park ($10 per vehicle), which offered serene winter hiking trails with views over the icy Potomac River, where I spotted birds even in winter. The nearby Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge (free to enter) felt magical in winter with quiet boardwalk trails perfect if you want solitude. Lunch was at Glory Days Grill where I had a great Grilled Chicken Caesar salad ($14.99).
- Average temperature: 27°F – 41°F (-3°C – 5°C)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My highlight was visiting The Workhouse Arts Center where I could see art exhibits and catch winter workshops and performances.
A downside? You'll have to bundle up though because it's freezing... but on the upside you'll have the trails to yourself this month in Lorton!
3. Guntersville, Alabama
The summer months (June to September) in northern Alabama are sweltering, so I decided to head here in January instead. It turned out to be the perfect choice this month with crisp, mild days with cool nights, and some of the clearest skies of the year. Nestled on the shores of Lake Guntersville, this little town offers water views, and January offered a peaceful, uncrowded vibes which we adored.
It was also exciting to me that this month falls within the peak season for migrating bald eagles. The Eagle Awareness Weekends at Lake Guntersville State Park happen throughout January and February, giving you the best chance to see these majestic birds up close with guided tours.
I drove into town from Huntsville International Airport (HSV), just an hour away and spent two days in a comfortable King guest room at 3-star Hampton Inn Guntersville (around $95/night).
- Average temperature: 33°F – 49°F (1°C – 9°C)
- Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My highlights included hiking along the lake trails, and taking in panoramic views from Guntersville Dam.
4. Things to Do in Vestal, New York
Visiting this town in January wasn't the obvious choice, but since we were visiting family in New York over New Year's, we headed here for a few relaxing days.
I drove 3 hours from my apartment in NYC and stayed at 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Binghamton/Vestal for five nights. Our days included walking along the Vestal Rail Trail under snowy trees, browsing local shops and cafés along the Vestal Parkway, and heading out to nearby spots like Greek Peak Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding (around $120 lift ticket for a day).
- Average temperature: 16.9 °F – 28.4 °F (-8.4 °C – -2 °C)
- Map & Directions
Pete's Legacy Diner served great coffee and amazing French toast on Homemade Challah Bread ($7.55).
5. Ocala, Florida
Ready for another warm-weather January destination you can reach without a passport? Check out Ocala, Florida! I loved how mild the weather was this month, with sunny days and cool nights, making it one of the most comfortable times of year to explore the "Horse Capital of the World."
What excited me most was that January falls right in the middle of Florida’s prime equestrian season. Ocala’s green pastures come alive with horse shows, polo matches, and farm tours. At the same time, the area’s natural beauty shines in the winter, from clear springs to shaded forest trails.
I flew into Orlando International Airport (MCO), just over an hour’s drive away, and settled into 5-star Equestrian Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond award winner (around $499/night) and during our two days there we hiked through Ocala National Forest, and visited GoldMark Farm, where we loved visiting the unique Triple Crown Museum (tours from $40). For food, I recommend Ivy on the Square which has great Southern food and you get to sit in a historic building and watch life go by outside.
- Average temperature: 46°F – 68°F (8°C – 20°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was a glass bottom boat tour in Silver Springs State Park - I loved they were so affordable (just $15 per person for 30 minutes) for such a unique vacation adventure!
A downside? Unfortunately Silver Springs does not permit swimming in the main springs and, in addition, Ocala is an inland destination so it was 1.5 hours from the nearest ocean beach.
6. Anderson, South Carolina
We loved exploring South Carolina’s “Upstate” region during this peaceful time of the year. In addition, while the town itself offers cafés, and historic buildings, you’re also close to Lake Hartwell, one of the Southeast’s largest lakes, which stays beautiful year-round. Even in winter, you’ll see anglers at this lake, hikers, and nature lovers taking advantage of the quieter season.
I flew into Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), about 45 minutes away, and spent a relaxed long 72-hour weekend based in a Standard Room with a King bed at Bleckley Inn (around $192/night), a boutique hotel in a converted textile warehouse. Our days included strolling through the revitalized downtown, visiting Anderson County Museum (free admission), and taking scenic drives into the nearby foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Average January temperature: 33.6 °F – 53.7 °F (0.9 °C – 12.1 °C)
- Map & Directions
My personal highlight was brunch at The Common House which serves house-roasted coffee and inventive Italian mains with a tasting-menu option, where my best choice was the handmade spaghettoni with caramelized onion $22.
7. Melbourne, Australia
You'll have to dust off your passport, but another great place travel this month is Australia. The weather is great in January because seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere, In addition, I’ve found some great deals here just after the New Year, especially in Melbourne where the summer weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoors including long strolls along the Yarra River, exploring cafés, or spending 2 hours at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Moreover, January in Melbourne brings world-class events, from the Australian Open to outdoor music festivals and art installations scattered across Federation Square.
I flew into Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and made the 30-minute drive into the city, where I stayed three days at the 5-star Crown Metropol Melbourne where I adored the skyline views and started my visit with a relaxing 60-minute massage at the spa right after check-in. From there, we went on a day trip to the Great Ocean Road (I thought coastal scenery lived up to its reputation!), and visited the National Gallery of Victoria (Adult tickets from $25, depending on the exhibit).
I also found out that Street Art Tours with Melbourne Street Tours are a must-do while you are in town!
- Average January temperature: 58.5 °F – 79.7 °F (14.7 °C – 26.5 °C)
- Map & Directions
My Melbourne highlight is soaking up the city’s creative energy — whether it’s sipping coffee on the patio at The Hardware Société, or catching a sunset from St Kilda Pier.
8. Kauai
While you don't need a passport to visit, a January trip here still requires some planning and usually budgeting because it involves a longer flight. When I lived on the Big Island of Hawaii, I could get to the island more frequently and for a fraction of the cost...and it was my absolute best place to go in January! I've always loved Kauai's relaxed vibes, tropical sunshine, and watching whales breaching just off the coast. My husband and I love getting out on the water in a kayak and I bring my hydrophone (basically an underwater microphone) to just sit and listen to whale song (and record it too).
This January, we based ourselves at the 4-star OUTRIGGER Kauai Beach Resort & Spa for two days, and I loved that there's always a cultural experience to attend nearby like a local hula performance. I like to visit farmers’ markets overflowing with affordable tropical fruit picked yesterday.
Kauai's beaches are always a highlight but January is peak season so I always leave busy resort beaches behind and seek out lesser known spots instead.
A local's quick tip...I've found some really good deals on airfare and hotels during the first two weeks in January when other visitors are usually leaving the islands after celebrating New Year's in Hawaii.
- Average January temperature: 65 °F – 78 °F (18.3 °C – 25.6 °C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was exploring the quaint town of Hanalei with its surf shops, art galleries, and scenic pier.
A downside? Airfares can be steep, especially since January is high season in Hawaii due to warm weather and prime whale watching.
9. Scottsdale
Another one of my favorite places to travel in January is Arizona. Why? It's sunny, warm and like I mentioned above for Kauai, I've found some great deals here right after New Year's.
In addition, I love that the weather is perfect for spending time outdoors, mild enough for long hikes in the Sonoran Desert, exploring art districts on foot, and golf too.
January brought Scottsdale’s Arizona Concours d’Elegance (the famous exhibition of the world’s finest collector cars), and cool art walks in the Old Town galleries.
I flew into Phoenix Sky Harbor and made the short 25-minute drive to Scottsdale, where I spent three days at the 4-star Hotel Valley Ho, a AAA Four Diamond Award winner so you can trust you'll receive reliable service. While there, we enjoyed hiking on Pinnacle Peak with panoramic desert views, and I treated myself to a rejuvenating 60 minute spa session inspired by Native Sonoran traditions.
- Average temperature: 46°F – 64°F (8°C – 18°C)
- Map & Directions
My Scottsdale highlight is spending time outdoors, whether it's by the pool or hiking, depending on how energetic I'm feeling.
10. Places to Visit in Apalachicola, Florida
This town instantly felt like one of those hidden gems that I couldn’t believe more people don’t talk about. Tucked away on the Gulf Coast near St. George Island, this small town has such a unique blend of history and coastal beauty that it quickly became one of my favorite underrated winter destinations in Florida. You can look forward to mild winter sunshine this month, crisp breezes off the bay, and stunning sunsets over the water.
Strolling along the Apalachicola Riverfront was fantastic. The town’s historic district is full of unique boutiques, antique shops, and inviting seafood restaurants that completely won me over. Apalachicola Bay oysters were super fresh!
My husband and I agree that 3-star Coombs Inn & Suites, a Victorian B&B with antique-filled rooms is a nice choice for a romantic 2- or 3-day weekend getaway.
- Average temperature: 50°F – 61°F (10°C – 16°C)
- Map & Directions
Exploring Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (free to visit) was a highlight for me. We enjoyed learning about the fragile ecosystem and spotting winter migratory birds in the marshes over there.
11. Tyler, Texas
When I moved to Texas, I found out that this charming East Texas city was an awesome place to visit during this month with its mild, sunny days, beautiful landscapes, and incredible lake views.
The conditions were just right as it was post-holiday season. The town had settled into a peaceful rhythm, the parks were open, and the trails and lakes were perfect for exploring without the peak-season crowds. I drove four hours from my house near Austin and I stayed at 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Tyler for two nights, and I enjoyed hiking at Tyler State Park, browsing boutiques in the historic downtown square, and winding down with local craft beer, dining, and live music at Liberty Hall.
- Average temperature: 39°F – 57°F (4°C – 14°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was exploring the enchanting Tyler Rose Garden (America’s largest and free to visit!). I though the Tyler Rose Museum ($3.50) next door was very interesting and returning for the Texas Rose Festival in the fall is on my bucket list!
Conclusion
Here you go. From vibrant small towns to underrated coastal escapes and breathtaking natural wonders, every spot offered its own kind of magic in January. May your travels be as life changing as mine. If you decide to travel in February or March instead, I covered my favorite destination then too.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
