Winter Wonder-List: Top Trending U.S. Destinations for Winter 2025

As the chill of winter approaches, savvy travellers are looking beyond the usual suspects and booking air travel to the unexpected corners of the United States. With flight routes more flexible and consumer appetite shifting, the 2025 winter season promises fresh destinations, vibrant experiences and a welcome departure from the ordinary. The emerging trend: Americans are using air travel not just to escape cold weather, but to seek seasonal magic in less-crowded places.

One clear pattern: travellers are moving away from big, stereotypical resorts and toward destinations that offer distinctive experiences. According to recent data, families in particular are embracing longer stays, rural escapes and places that feel authentic rather than over-commercialised.

For example, snow destination towns, off-the-beaten-path beach getaways, and nature retreats are all rising in popularity among winter travellers.

Here is a highlight of a few of the most talked-about areas for the 2025 winter season:

Mountain and snow escapes

For those chasing crisp alpine air, fresh snow and the thrill of winter sport, U.S. mountain towns stand out. These spots appeal to skiers, snowboarders and anyone eager for dramatic landscapes and cozy lodges. The shift toward “experiential seasonality” means winter is now valued for what it brings, rather than just being avoided.

Jackson Hole is having a real moment. With its dramatic Teton backdrop, world-class skiing and that irresistible mix of luxury lodges and rugged wilderness, it’s the kind of place winter travellers can’t stop talking about. It’s also well-served by winter air travel, with seasonal flights from major U.S. hubs, making it feel remote but not unreachable.

Warm-weather retreats

On the flip side, many travellers prefer to swap snow boots for sandals. Subtropical getaways, sun-kissed coasts and beach destinations are drawing interest from those wanting to sidestep winter’s chill altogether.

Naples is trending for travellers craving sunshine without the heavy crowds of South Florida’s biggest hotspots. Think calm Gulf waters, upscale dining, breezy boardwalks and reliably warm mid-winter weather. Easy air travel connections into Southwest Florida International Airport make it a smooth winter escape.

Hidden-gem regions

Rather than crowding the major metropolitan attractions, travellers are discovering smaller towns, lesser-known regions and nature-rich locations where air travel opens the door to something fresh. These spots often offer better value, authentic local culture and a sense of discovery.

Taos in New Mexico sits quietly under the radar but continues to draw curious travellers who want culture, art, mountain scenery and that slow-paced desert-meets-alpine vibe. It’s rich in Indigenous heritage, full of character and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Fly into Albuquerque or Santa Fe, then enjoy a scenic drive north into a town that feels wonderfully different from typical winter picks.

Air travel plays a pivotal role in unlocking these trends. With more direct flights, expanded seasonal service and airlines looking to fill aircraft during winter lull periods, many destinations are now more accessible. This means that whether you’re coming in for ski slopes or seaside calm, flight options continue to improve.

So if you’re planning for winter 2025, consider these take-aways: book early, be flexible with airports and destinations, and think outside the “big city or major resort” box. Look for places where winter adds something unique, whether it’s snow-covered peaks, warm-weather sunshine or a quiet town surrounded by nature.

Winter travel in the U.S. for 2025 is about going to the season, not just escaping it. From snowfields to sandy shores, air travel makes it all possible.