7 Places to Travel in February
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 is one of my favorite places to visit in February because it has warm weather, beaches, and I like seeing the rocket launches.
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
Our February Valentine’s Day trip began with a drive through the Texas High Plains Wine Country. This was a chilly month even in Texas, but mid-day is warm enough 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
Ready for a 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).
Central Park, NYC
Ready for a classic New York winter escape? 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!
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.
Darlinghurst, Sydney
If you are lying from the USA, chances are that your flight to Auckland will be routed through Sydney so I recommend stopping here for a few days. 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!
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, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
