Places to Travel in February
Whether you’re chasing winter sun, looking for cultural festivals, or leaning into snowy adventures, February is an underrated month to travel. Here are some top destinations and what to experience in each.
What are the best places to visit in February? If you are looking for beaches and warmth, head to Cape Canaveral or Daphne. If you want winter romance, go for a carriage ride in NYC. I think you will like the rest of my favorites too.
1. Cape Canaveral, Florida
This month was made for visiting this breezy Atlantic gem, when mild winter warmth kept things comfortable for exploring the coast, and with the holiday crowds gone, I enjoyed quiet beaches, relaxed waterfront dining, and a laid-back, unhurried vibe. Off-season rates made it feel like a luxe coastal escape without the peak-season prices!
After flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO), I drove about an hour east and settled in for two sunny days in a One Bedroom Suite with a Kitchenette and a separate sitting area at 3-star Radisson Resort at the Port (around $205). I biked along the sandy shoreline, explored the sprawling exhibits at the Kennedy Space Center ($77 Adult admission), and soaked in the view from Exploration Tower.
Dinner was at Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar where I ordered Pepper Seared Tuna ($16.99) and my husband had Shrimp Poke ($16.99).
- Average February temperature: 56°F – 72°F (13°C – 22°C)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Catching the electrifying energy of a nighttime rocket launch was my favorite, and I watched the sky erupt in flame and thunder from the beach, toes in the sand and ocean breeze in the air.
If you loved Cape Canaveral, check out more places to visit in Florida!
2. Lubbock, Texas
February turned out to be an unexpectedly wonderful month to experience Lubbock — crisp blue-sky days, quiet museums, and that easygoing West Texas warmth made the “Hub City” feel especially welcoming. I also learned it was prime time for stargazing on the High Plains, and the clear winter nights paired perfectly with Lubbock’s cozy wine bars for a low-key Valentine’s escape.
I drove five hours up from my home near Austin and spent three relaxed days here. I explored the Texas High Plains Wine Country, wandered the wide-open prairie trails at Lubbock Lake Landmark, admired the bold murals downtown, and lingered in the fascinating Buddy Holly Center ($10 General admission) — my favorite memento was a hand-crafted guitar pick necklace from a local boutique in the Depot District.
- Average February temperature: 31°F – 60°F (-1°C – 16°C)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Sipping bold reds at McPherson Cellars — I loved the earthy, sun-soaked flavors of the High Plains grapes, and the peaceful courtyard felt like a hidden oasis even in winter. My favorite moment was stepping into the barrel room, where the cool air and soft oak scent wrapped around me like a quiet conversation with the winemakers who shaped it all.
3. Floyd, Virginia
I was very happy I chose this month for my Floyd trip - the Blue Ridge air was crisp and cool, visibility was stunning along the Parkway, and the town felt perfectly serene without the peak-season crowds. I even scored great rates on a cozy Appalachian cabin and lucked into a fun lineup of local happenings, including an intimate Friday Night Jamboree at the iconic Floyd Country Store.
Arriving via a scenic drive off the Blue Ridge Parkway, I spent a wonderfully peaceful long weekend exploring the artisan studios of the Floyd Center for the Arts, sampling small-batch teas at the charming Red Rooster Coffee Roaster café, and strolling the picturesque streets dotted with galleries and quirky shops. I even took a short hike in Rocky Knob Recreation Area to soak up panoramic ridge views.
- Average February temperature: 44°F – 64°F (7°C – 18°C)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Staying at the charming 2-star Hotel Floyd (around $121) — I especially loved our themed artisan-designed room, the rocking chairs on the porch overlooking rolling hills, and the easy walk to live bluegrass music in town. The warm, rustic feel made it the perfect retreat after crisp mountain evenings, and I thought that the complimentary local-roast coffee in the morning was worth getting up for!
4. Darlinghurst, Sydney
Visiting Darlinghurst in February means experiencing the neighborhood at its most vibrant. Warm summer evenings spill into lively streets, café tables stretch onto sidewalks, and just east of Sydney’s CBD, it’s a district that blends historic terrace houses with cutting-edge dining, nightlife, and art.
- Average February temperature: 66°F – 79°F (19°C – 26°C)
- Location Map
I found Darlinghurst in February to be dynamic and welcoming — a hub of Sydney’s culture, history, and food scene. Whether you’re taking in art, soaking up the festive mood on Oxford Street, or enjoying a summer dinner at Restaurant Moon, the neighborhood captures the spirit of the city at its most colorful.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans in February is alive with color, music, and celebration. The city hums with anticipation for Mardi Gras — parades roll down oak-lined streets, brass bands echo through the French Quarter, and the air carries the scent of king cake and Creole cooking. It’s a place where history, culture, and joy collide in unforgettable ways.
- Average February temperature: 50°F – 66°F (10°C – 19°C)
- Location Map
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 New Orleans.
6. Central Park, NYC
I was very happy I chose this month for my Central Park escape because the air was crisp, the skies were bright, and the usual Midtown buzz felt just a touch quieter under the bare canopy of trees. When we lived in NYC for 10 years, February was the most unique month there because of how unique the landscape is after snowfall.
I spent a rejuvenating long weekend wandering past Bow Bridge, admiring the stillness of The Lake, and lingering at Bethesda Terrace to take in its grand arches. I climbed up to Belvedere Castle for sweeping skyline views, and warmed up with hot chocolate from a tiny nearby café.
- Average February temperature: 29°F – 43°F (-2°C – 6°C)
- Location Map
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, where we skated to soft music while the skyline sparkled overhead felt like stepping into a classic New York winter scene. We had Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court afterwards, an iconic destination for over 115 years!
7. Phoenix, Arizona
I found this was an ideal time to visit Phoenix — 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)
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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 — the silhouettes standing stark against a violet sky as the first stars shimmered into view.
If you loved Phoenix, check out more places to visit in Arizona!
8. Daphne, Alabama
Daphne was the dreamiest antidote to the coastal chill — warm breezes off Mobile Bay, moss-draped oaks, and a relaxed Southern–by–the–water vibe made it perfect for slow mornings, scenic walks, and enjoying Gulf Coast flavors without the heavier spring-break crowds.
I drove about 20 minutes from Mobile and settled in for two peaceful days, exploring the Bayfront Park trails, wandering historic Olde Towne Daphne, catching sunset at May Day Park’s long wooden pier, indulging in buttery Gulf shrimp at cozy local cafés, and browsing the Saturday markets where stalls smelled of roasted pecans, sweet tea candles, and wild coastal honey.
I loved that Daphne was such a unique destination for foodies, including seafood at Boudreaux's Cajun Grill, Kraver's Seafood Restaurant, and Market by the Bay.
- Average February temperature: 44°F – 64°F (7°C – 18°C)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Staying at the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa – I loved the stately Southern architecture, the sweeping bayfront lawn, and sipping a refreshing citrusy porch cocktail while watching the nightly cannon firing ceremony across the water!
9. Auckland
Visiting Auckland this month turned out to be an inspired choice — warm ocean breezes swept across the harbours, volcanic cones glowed gold at sunset, and the city buzzed with a relaxed, coastal-urban energy that made it feel like the perfect summertime escape for me!
I flew straight into Auckland Airport and within 30 minutes was cruising north across the Harbour Bridge toward the breezy suburb of Takapuna, basing myself at the stylish 4-star Hotel Indigo Auckland (about $146/night) for an easygoing four days focused on food, ocean views, and outdoor exploring. By this month, the whole region was in full summer swing — ferries gliding across the Waitemata, pohutukawa trees blazing red along the coastline, and long golden evenings that made the city feel like it never truly slept. I also caught the lively Auckland Anniversary Weekend festivities.
What I loved best:
Dining at Amano, one of Auckland’s beloved waterside restaurants — I was completely taken by the bright snapper crudo lifted with citrus and chilli, followed by a crisp basil gimlet that tasted as fresh and invigorating as the sea breeze drifting in from the harbour!
10. San Antonio, Texas
Visiting San Antonio 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)
- Location Map
What I loved best:
Dining at Acenar along the River Walk — 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 San Antonio, check out more places to visit in Texas!
Conclusion
If January is for resetting, February is for recharging, with intention, color, and a little bit of magic. Whether you’re chasing warmth in the South or snow-dusted wonder out West, this is the time to find places that meet your pace.
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.
