Best Places to Visit in January
January is the perfect time to kick off the new year with travel, whether you’re seeking snowy adventures, sunny escapes, or cultural experiences. From winter wonderlands to warm-weather retreats, 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 think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. The Florida Keys
I loved taking a trip to this tropical island chain during this month as I got to enjoy warm sunshine, great swimming, and laid-back island vibes. It's one of the best places to visit in January and it was the absolute best way I could think of to get away from winter chill while not spending a lot on airfare. That's why The Florida Keys are my first pick.
January temperatures are ideal for snorkeling, diving among vibrant coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, or simply strolling through Key West. In the past, I've avoided visiting summer humidity and hurricane season so January was perfect! I loved sitting on Sunset Pier in Key West with a cool drink and a light snack while looking out over the water.
I was happy to see lots of local events and festivities happening like Key West Food & Wine Festival and Mallory Square Sunset Celebration.
I drove down the Overseas Highway from Miami and took a three nights to explore from my base at La Concha Hotel & Spa on Duval Street for two days. You can snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, kayak in Bahia Honda’s calm shallows.
- Average temperature: 66°F – 74°F (19°C – 24°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was simply walking around Old Town Key West, admiring the architecture and pink bougainvillea.
2. Kauai
Kauai is also my favorite January winter getaway but it's second on my list because airfares can be steep from where I live in Texas. 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 love 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. I bring my underwater microphone to just sit and listen to whale song (and record it too). We based ourselves at the 4-star OUTRIGGER Kauai Beach Resort & Spa for two days.
There's always a cultural experience to attend nearby like a local hula performance. I like to visit farmers’ markets overflowing with cheap tropical fruit that costs way more on the mainland. Kauai's beaches are always a highlight but January is peak season so I leave busy resort beaches and seek out lesser known spots instead. A quick tip...I've found some really good deals on airfare and hotels during the first two weeks in January when tourists are usually leaving the islands after celebrating New Years.
- Average temperature: 67°F – 78°F (19°C – 26°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was exploring the quaint town of Hanalei with its surf shops, art galleries, and scenic pier.
3. Scottsdale
My third favorite place to travel this month is Scottsdale. It's sunny, warms and like Kauai I've found some great deals here right after New Year's. 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, and vibrant 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 Scottsdale Plaza Resort & Villas. You can hike on Pinnacle Peak for panoramic desert views, explore the galleries and boutiques of Old Town, and treat yourself 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.
4. Lorton, Virginia
Now that I've gotten my top three January favorites out of the way, I want to mention some underrated January destination that I've found intriguing.
I found that January was the perfect time to visit Lorton, Virginia just 30 minutes from my base in D.C., a small but charming town that blended history, nature, and cozy winter vibes. 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, 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 felt magical in winter with quiet boardwalk trails perfect if you want solitude. You'll have to bundle up though because it's freezing.
- Average temperature: 27°F – 41°F (-3°C – 5°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlight was visiting The Workhouse Arts Center where I could see art exhibits and catch winter workshops and performances.
I think Lorton is a cool, underrated place you can visit for a quick winter escape super close to D.C. There are several chain hotels if you want to spend the night but I was there on a day trip from D.C.
5. Apalachicola, Florida
Apalachicola, Florida 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 was a highlight for me. We enjoyed learning about the fragile ecosystem and spotting winter migratory birds in the marshes over there.
6. Tyler, Texas
As a Texan I get to explore Texas town at all times of the year that 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 in Austin and I stayed at 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Tyler for one night.
You can go hiking at Tyler State Park, , browse boutiques in the historic downtown square, and wind 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!)
7. Guntersville, Alabama
The summer months (June to September) in northern Alabama can be sweltering and humid, so I decided to head to Guntersville in January instead. It turned out to be the perfect choice 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.
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 and educational talks.
I drove into town from Huntsville International Airport (HSV), just an hour away—and spent two days at 3-star Hampton Inn Guntersville.
- Average temperature: 33°F – 49°F (1°C – 9°C)
- Map & Directions
My highlights included hiking along the lake trails, taking in panoramic views from Guntersville Dam, and joining a ranger-led boat tour to spot eagles and wintering waterfowl.
8. Vestal, New York
I decided to visit Vestal in January and it turned out to be the perfect choice, quiet, crisp winter air, and a blanket of snow over the hills of the Southern Tier that made the small town feel extra charming. Vestal is a small town along the Susquehanna River. Vestal’s story is tied to railroads and early settlement.
What excited me most was that this time of year coincides with prime winter recreation in the region. Just a short drive away, ski slopes and tubing hills are open, and snowshoeing trails wind through wooded parks along the Susquehanna River valley.
I drove 3 hours from my apartment in NYC and stayed at 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Binghamton/Vestal for two nights. My 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.
- Average temperature: 16.9 °F – 28.4 °F (-8.4 °C – -2 °C)
- Map & Directions
I think Vestal, NY is one of those underrated winter destinations that give you the perfect set up unexpected memories.
9. Ocala, Florida
I know this is the third Florida place to visit I'm recommending but I didn't want to leave off Ocala. Why? Because this month in Ocala was mild, with sunny days and cool nights, making it one of the most comfortable times of year to explore the “Horse Capital of the World.” Ocala, Florida instantly felt like one of those underrated gems that offers way more than you expect.
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 crystal-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 for two nights. You can hike through Ocala National Forest, and tour one of Ocala’s legendary thoroughbred horse farms. For food, I recommend Ivy on the Square...it 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 a glass bottom boat tour in Silver Springs State Park
10. Anderson, South Carolina
What stood out to me was how January in Anderson feels peaceful yet lively. It’s right in the heart of South Carolina’s “Upstate” region, so while the town itself offers cafés, historic buildings, and friendly small-town vibes, 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, 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 weekend based in Anderson at Bleckley Inn, a boutique hotel in a converted textile warehouse. My days included strolling through the revitalized downtown, visiting Anderson County Museum, and taking scenic drives into the nearby foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Average temperature: 34°F – 53°F (1°C – 12 °C)
- Map & Directions
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.
