Winter is a great time for couples to take a romantic getaway trip, with cozy fireside nights, snowflakes drifting through the air, sleigh rides, and enchanting landscapes blanketed in snow. From snowy mountain towns to coastal retreats, the US offers many destinations to embrace the winter. Here are some romantic winter destinations to put on your shortlist.
Aspen, Colorado
For couples who enjoy outdoor adventure, Aspen is a dream destination, with various winter sports to try, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating. After a day on the slopes, couples can unwind at one of Aspen’s luxurious spas or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of its many fine dining establishments. The town is also known for its high-end shopping, art galleries, and chic boutiques, making it perfect for those looking to treat themselves during their romantic getaway.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (open year-round with free admission), Gatlinburg stays rocking all through winter. Nestled in the mountains and with lots of accommodations, including luxury Gatlinburg cabins in the foothills, the town offers breathtaking mountain views and a cozy winter atmosphere. For the outdoors, a winter hike through the national park, or simply a scenic drive through the area, offers the beauty of nature at its most serene. Back at the cabin, cook a meal together in the gourmet kitchen, laze in the hot tu,b or curl up by a fireplace with a glass of wine.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
With its unique Southwestern charm, Santa Fe offers an inviting atmosphere that is beguiling for couples to explore together. The City Different is known for its adobe architecture, art galleries, and vibrant culture, which all stay fully alive in the winter months. Santa Fe’s historic plaza is beautifully decorated during the holidays, and the winter weather is perfect for exploring the city’s rich art scene. The local ski area is one of the highest in the country and offers trails for all skill levels. Back in town, Santa Fe knows how to pamper, with many spas offering traditional treatments, and a vast range of gourmet meals available in one of the town’s exceptional restaurants. After dinner, take a stroll through the city’s charming streets, lit by lanterns and festive lights, or discover the beauty of the desert landscape covered in snow.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Winter brings a tranquil charm to the Outer Banks, where miles of windswept beaches and historic lighthouses create an idyllic escape. Without the summer crowds, you and your partner can enjoy peaceful walks along the shore, marvel at the wild horses grazing in the dunes, or visit iconic spots such as the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Quaint coastal villages such as Duck and Manteo offer charming shops, cozy eateries, and inviting inns with fireplaces to warm up after a day of exploring. The area’s natural beauty and serenity make it a perfect spot for kindling romance.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea enchants visitors year-round, but its winter ambiance is especially magical. The town’s storybook cottages, art galleries, and boutique shops are even more inviting when framed by misty skies and the sound of waves crashing on the cliffs. Couples can explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where dramatic coastal views and hidden coves await, or enjoy a leisurely drive along the scenic 17-mile Drive. Afterward, retreat to one of Carmel’s intimate bistros for a candlelit dinner or cozy up by the fire in a luxury inn.
Emerald Coast, Florida
Florida is known for its mild winter weather, and the Emerald Coast in the Panhandle offers both the pristine and the scenic, set along many miles of coast with gorgeous winter sunsets and stunning views across the sugar-white sands of the teal-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. From the multiple attractions of Destin in the west to Panama City Beach in the east, the coastal highway offers many quieter, quaint towns and beachside stops, including Seaside, the quaintest of them all, and the setting for the Jim Carrey film, The Truman Show. Here you can find pastel-painted vacation homes, eclectic shops casual gourmet food trucks, and waterfront restaurants.
Napa Valley, California
Winter in Napa Valley is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most romantic times to visit this famous wine region. The vineyards are quieter, the air is crisp, and the rolling hillsides are covered in a serene winter mist. Couples can visit some of the region’s top wineries for private tastings and enjoy gourmet meals at world-class restaurants. Many wineries offer winter packages that include cozy fireside tastings or even wine and chocolate pairings. For relaxation, luxurious resorts and spas offer the perfect winter romance.
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is one of the most charming small towns in New England, and its picturesque setting makes it a perfectly romantic winter destination. Known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding, Stowe also offers snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides through the scenic countryside. After a day on the slopes, enjoy a warm drink by the fire or indulge in a candlelit dinner at one of Stowe’s cozy restaurants. With its quintessential New England charm, Stowe is a destination where couples can enjoy the beauty of winter in a charming, historic setting.
Kennebunkport, Maine
For those who enjoy the bracing winter, Kennebunkport’s snow-dusted streets and frosty coastline create a romantic New England winter escape. Stroll through Dock Square, with its boutique shops and art galleries, or take a scenic walk along the frozen shoreline to watch waves crash against icy rocks. Many inns offer romantic amenities like fireplaces and ocean views, perfect for staying warm while enjoying the area’s natural beauty. Winter festivals and holiday lights add an extra layer of charm to this quiet coastal retreat.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island offers a mild winter retreat with a blend of Southern charm and coastal beauty. Couples can enjoy peaceful walks along uncrowded beaches, explore the island’s historic lighthouse, or watch stunning sunsets over the water. The relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to unwind and reconnect. Local seafood restaurants and cozy accommodations round out the experience, offering all the warmth and hospitality of a true Southern getaway.
