10 Winter Destinations That Aren’t Florida

ByKita

Save This Article

WANT TO SAVE THIS ARTICLE?

Enter your email below & I'll send it straight to your inbox!

And each week, I'll send you new tips to plan your next romantic couples trip! If you decide it's not for you, unsubscribing is always just a click away.

Winter gets a bad rap for only being about snow and freezing temperatures, but there are plenty of places where you can escape the chill without heading to Florida. We’ve found 10 winter destinations that offer everything from cozy retreats to sun-soaked beaches, so you can enjoy the season without the crowds and long lines of traditional spots.

These destinations mix mild climates with plenty of charm, whether you’re dreaming of an island getaway, a peaceful mountain escape, or a warm city filled with culture and good food. You’ll find everything you need for a memorable winter trip—minus the frostbite. Whether you want to stroll along a beach at sunset, hike through mild mountain trails, or explore vibrant local scenes, these places offer the perfect escape from the usual cold-weather destinations.

Ready to switch things up this winter? Here are 10 winter destinations that aren’t Florida, perfect for couples looking to enjoy the season without the typical snow and ice.

A man and woman in winter clothes stand in falling snow; he stretches his arms out while she smiles, looking upward.
Introduction. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Sedona, Arizona

Red rock formations tower over green vegetation beneath a clear sky, all illuminated by warm sunlight.
Sedona, Arizona. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Sedona gives couples clear red rock views, steady sunshine, and mild winter days that make outdoor plans simple. The trails stay open, the roads stay easy to navigate, and the scenery feels striking even in cooler months. Couples can take short hikes, visit viewpoints, or explore small art shops without dealing with heavy crowds. The daylight lasts long enough for slow pacing, and the air feels crisp without being harsh. Even a short weekend feels full because everything is close together and stress-free.

Walk the Airport Mesa overlook near sunset for the best color across the rocks.

San Diego, California

San Diego skyline with high-rise buildings and marina boats along the waterfront near the San Diego Convention Center.
San Diego, California. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

San Diego stays calm and bright through winter, making it one of the easiest non-Florida choices for couples who want beach access without cold air. The shoreline paths, coastal parks, and neighborhoods remain lively but never chaotic. Couples can spend long hours walking by the water, exploring small cafés, or sitting along the cliffs watching the waves. The weather stays mild enough for outdoor meals and morning strolls. Everything moves at a relaxed pace that supports simple days together.

Visit La Jolla Coast Walk Trail for gentle scenery and wide ocean views.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico at sunset with adobe buildings, green trees, and distant mountains beneath an orange sky.
Santa Fe, New Mexico. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Santa Fe brings clear desert light, cool air, and quiet streets that make winter feel steady instead of heavy. Couples can explore museums, shops, and historic plazas without crowds. The adobe architecture creates a peaceful backdrop for slow movement, and the city stays bright even on colder days. You can pair a morning walk through the galleries with an afternoon at a local café or take a short drive to nearby viewpoints. The weather stays manageable, letting couples stay outside longer than expected.

Visit Canyon Road early in the day for soft light and quieter galleries.

Scottsdale, Arizona

At dusk, a multistory building and palm trees are reflected in a canal beneath a purple-blue sky.
Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Scottsdale gives couples desert trails, resort areas, and mild afternoons that keep winter trips simple. The desert scenery feels open and uncluttered, helping couples settle into a slower rhythm. You can walk the trails, explore Old Town, or relax at a poolside cabana without dealing with cold air. The city offers easy access to hikes, paths, and viewpoints, making it a good pick for couples who want sun and simple planning. Everything stays close, so moving from one activity to another never feels rushed.

Try a short morning walk on the Gateway Loop for clear desert views.

Palm Springs, California

A "Palm Springs" sign stands before desert landscaping, palm trees, rocks, and mountains under a clear blue sky.
Palm Springs, California. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Palm Springs stays bright through winter, giving couples mountain scenery, long poolside afternoons, and plenty of space to slow down. The air stays gentle enough for outdoor meals, mid-day swims, or bike rides around the quiet neighborhoods. Many hotels decorate their courtyards with seasonal touches, adding small details without overwhelming the setting. Couples can take the tram into the mountains, explore retro shops, or spend the entire day by the pool. The steady sun helps keep the pace calm from morning to evening.

Visit the Indian Canyons trails for clear paths and wide desert views.

Charleston, South Carolina

Colorful buildings and palm trees line a street, with a white church and clock tower in the background under a pastel sky.
Charleston, South Carolina. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Charleston stays mild in winter, giving couples shaded streets, soft coastal air, and historic paths that remain easy to explore. The quieter season makes the city feel calm, letting couples wander without rushing. You can walk the waterfront, explore old neighborhoods, or stop at small cafés without long waits. The slower winter pace helps couples settle into easy routines, from morning walks to relaxed afternoons around the historic district. Even with cooler temperatures, outdoor time stays comfortable enough for steady movement and conversation.

Walk the Battery in the late afternoon for open views and calm shoreline paths.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Waikiki beachfront in Honolulu at dusk, with high-rise hotels along the shore and Diamond Head volcano in the background.
Honolulu, Hawaii. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Honolulu stays bright and steady through winter, making it one of the simplest warm-weather destinations outside Florida. Couples can walk Waikiki Beach, explore nearby parks, or take easy day trips without dealing with heavy heat. Winter brings clear skies and calm breezes that support long outdoor hours. The city mixes coastal scenery with accessible paths, giving couples plenty of space to slow down. Even a short weekend feels easy because everything you need sits close together.

Visit Kapiolani Park early for quiet paths and clear beach views.

Tucson, Arizona

Downtown skyline with modern buildings, a church, and mountains at sunset; a large white "A" appears on the hillside.
Tucson, Arizona. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Tucson gives couples desert parks, strong stargazing, and mild winter days that support long outdoor stretches. The trails stay open, and the scenery feels spacious, helping couples find quiet areas for slow walks. Museums, gardens, and local markets add simple stops throughout the day. The dry air keeps things clear, making sunrise and sunset especially striking. Winter crowds stay low, so couples can move at their own pace without noise or pressure.

Head to Saguaro National Park near sunset for striking silhouettes across the desert.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Aerial view of downtown New Orleans with skyscrapers, historic buildings, and a riverboat on the Mississippi River at sunset.
New Orleans, Louisiana. Photo credit: 123RF.

New Orleans brings lively streets, comfortable winter temperatures, and a relaxed pace that lets couples explore without summer heat. The French Quarter stays active but manageable, making it easy to walk, sit, and listen to live music without feeling overwhelmed. Couples can explore parks, quiet side streets, and historic buildings at their own speed. Winter also brings clear air and soft sunlight, which makes outdoor strolling feel easy.

Visit the Garden District during mid-morning for calm sidewalks and clear views of historic homes.

Savannah, Georgia

Aerial city view at sunset with a river, bridge, grid-patterned streets, buildings, and green spaces.
Savannah, Georgia. Photo credit: 123RF.

Savannah gives couples shaded squares, slow-moving streets, and gentle winter air that makes walking the city pleasant. The historic district stays bright and calm, with plenty of outdoor seating, quiet parks, and easy paths. Couples can explore old homes, walk under oak trees, or take a slow riverfront stroll without dealing with strong heat. Winter crowds remain light, giving you more space to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Start at Forsyth Park early in the day for open paths and steady light.

A Different Kind of Winter Escape

Two people in winter coats and hats walk hand in hand on a snowy forest path lined with trees.
Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Winter trips don’t have to mean beaches, palm trees, and the usual sunny crowds. These 10 winter destinations that aren’t Florida show how refreshing it can feel to take a different route. From snowy towns with quiet streets to upbeat cities full of lights, each place gives travelers a new way to enjoy the season. Some offer peaceful walks and scenic views, while others bring out the energy of winter festivals, cozy shops, and local traditions. What all of them share is the chance to slow down, enjoy the weather as it is, and experience a side of winter that feels more grounded and memorable.

If you’re craving something new, these destinations make that easy. You can plan a weekend away, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the simple routines that come with colder months—whether that’s sipping something warm, taking photos of frosted landscapes, or trying food that tastes better in the cold. So, if the sunny escape is starting to feel predictable, consider switching things up. Pick a spot that matches the kind of winter you want, pack your layers, and enjoy a season that’s full of texture and charm in its own quiet way.

10 Train Weekend Destinations That Cost Less Than Flying

10 Train Weekend Destinations That Cost Less Than Flying. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Train travel has a way of slowing things down, and many couples are starting to pick it over short flights. We understand why. Trains are calmer, easier to board, and often far more budget-friendly. When you add in the views, the extra space, and the lack of airport stress, a weekend trip by rail begins to sound like the smartest choice for a quick escape.
Learn more here: 10 Train Weekend Destinations That Cost Less Than Flying

Kita is a world traveled writer and photographer publishing content since 2009 and a member of NATJA and SATW.
She is an avid outdoor junkie, blues lover, and not-so-secret BBQ aficionado. Knowing that vacations don't always have to be far away, exotic, or weeks long is what inspired her to start a site dedicated to helping people plan short getaways to keep the fire burning.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *