Washington DC Joins Minnesota, Texas, and Florida Strive to Be Affordable Winter Destinations in the US

Published on November 17, 2025

Winter travel can often be overlooked as many travelers focus on the busy holiday season and the anticipation of spring. However, January and February are considered some of the best months to travel, offering advantages that aren’t as commonly recognized. These months provide the opportunity to visit popular U.S. destinations with fewer crowds, lower travel costs, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The off-season makes it easier to secure good deals on both airfare and lodging, and the destinations available are just as appealing as those visited during the warmer months.

According to Kayak, a leading travel search engine, January and February are prime for finding affordable destinations that offer a wide range of experiences. Whether it’s warm weather for those seeking sunshine or ski mountains for adventurous travelers, the options are diverse. By analyzing flight and hotel searches from March 15 to September 15, 2025, Kayak uncovered several U.S. cities where the combined cost of flights and hotels is under $500. Here are the top ten most affordable winter destinations in the United States for the 2025 season.

1. Chicago, Illinois: Embrace the Chill in the Windy City

For those who enjoy winter’s crisp air and unique charm, Chicago is an ideal destination. This bustling city, known for its iconic skyline and rich cultural scene, becomes even more captivating when winter sets in. Winter travelers can explore famous museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry, all while avoiding the crowds typical of the warmer months. For those seeking winter fun, activities like ice skating at Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, or Navy Pier offer a fun way to embrace the cold. The Gwen Hotel even offers a rooftop curling experience for guests who enjoy a challenge. Chicago’s wintery ambiance is complemented by cozy restaurants like Armitage Alehouse, where guests can relax by a crackling fireplace while savoring hearty British-inspired dishes. With the combined cost of flight and hotel at $426, Chicago offers a wallet-friendly winter experience.

2. Dallas, Texas: A Mild Winter Escape

If warmth and sunshine are preferred during the colder months, Dallas is the perfect choice. Known for its mild winter temperatures and vibrant cultural scene, Dallas provides a range of activities for all interests. Visitors can experience a taste of cowboy culture with a trip to the Fort Worth Stockyards, where live rodeos and line dancing are regular attractions. Dallas also boasts impressive museums, such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Dallas Arts District, where outdoor festivals and alfresco dining are common in winter. Galleria Dallas offers a seasonal ice rink, making it easy to indulge in a winter wonderland experience. With a combined flight and hotel cost of $435, Dallas remains an affordable and stylish southern getaway.

3. Minneapolis, Minnesota: A Winter Wonderland

In the heart of the Midwest, Minneapolis offers a true winter experience, with snow-covered streets and plenty of outdoor activities for the adventurous. From exploring the Minneapolis Institute of Art to shopping at the Mall of America, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained. Those interested in winter sports can enjoy the city’s scenic trails around the Chain of Lakes or try their hand at snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The city’s food scene is also a highlight, with its famous Juicy Lucy cheese-stuffed burgers served at local favorites like Matt’s Bar. The cost of combined flight and hotel in Minneapolis is $435, making it an affordable destination for winter fun.

4. Washington, D.C.: A Quieter Capitol Experience

Winter in Washington, D.C. offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere compared to the bustling summer months. With fewer crowds, visitors can enjoy museums like the Smithsonian at their own pace and stroll the National Mall surrounded by the beauty of freshly fallen snow. The National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden transforms into one of the most scenic ice skating rinks in the city. For warmth, visitors can duck into one of the Smithsonian museums or warm up at a local café like Baked & Wired. The combined cost for flight and hotel in Washington, D.C. is $445, making it an affordable winter destination that balances history with seasonal charm.

5. Boston, Massachusetts: A Snowy Historic Retreat

Stepping into Boston in the winter feels like walking through a snow globe, with its cobblestone streets dusted in snow and its scenic harbor frozen over. Visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts or the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Those looking for winter activities can visit Snowport, a charming seasonal market where visitors sip hot cocoa and shop for artisanal goods. Boston’s winter cuisine also shines, with fresh lobster rolls at Neptune Oyster or mulled wine at La Famiglia Giorgio’s Ristorante. With a combined cost of $464, Boston offers a classic winter retreat with a historic twist.

6. Baltimore, Maryland: Winter on the Waterfront

Baltimore is a charming winter destination known for its beautiful waterfront, which shines even brighter during the off-season. The Winter on the Waterfront festival brings ice skating, seasonal lights, and pop-up markets, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors. The city’s vibrant museum scene is also worth exploring, with destinations like The Walters Art Museum and the American Visionary Art Museum offering a deep dive into history and creativity. Winter is also oyster season, making it the perfect time to enjoy fresh oysters at Thames Street Oyster House. The combined cost for a winter trip to Baltimore is $471, offering both relaxation and culture in one convenient location.

7. New York, New York: The Big Apple in Winter

While New York City never fully slows down, the winter months provide a unique chance to experience the city without the usual crowds. Visitors can explore world-class museums like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the Metropolitan Museum of Art without long lines. The city’s famous Bryant Park transforms into a vibrant winter village with ice skating, open-air bars, and seasonal pop-up shops. Broadway shows also become more affordable in winter, offering discounted tickets. New York’s hotels, while typically expensive, offer winter rates that can make a trip to the city more accessible with a combined cost of $491.

8. Raleigh, North Carolina: Mild Winters and Southern Charm

Raleigh offers a unique winter experience with its crisp mornings and sunny afternoons, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can stroll through oak-lined streets and explore the local art scene at places like CAM Raleigh and the North Carolina Museum of Art. Raleigh is also known for its excellent craft beer scene and Southern cooking, with cozy restaurants like Poole’s Diner offering comfort food in a welcoming setting. With a combined cost of $523, Raleigh is an affordable winter destination for those seeking mild temperatures and a mix of culture and cuisine.

9. Nashville, Tennessee: Music City in Winter

Nashville transforms into a quieter, more laid-back destination during the winter months. Visitors can explore the 12South neighborhood, known for its boutique shops and coffee houses. The city’s live music scene is alive year-round, with shows at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium. Broadway lights up with country music, while visitors can also indulge in local specialties like hot chicken. With a combined cost of $523, Nashville offers an affordable winter experience packed with music and culture.

10. Tampa, Florida: Sunny Winter Retreat

For those seeking sunshine instead of snow, Tampa offers a warm winter getaway. The city is just a short drive from some of Florida’s best beaches, including Clearwater and St. Petersburg. Tampa’s Riverwalk provides a scenic setting for a winter stroll, and the Tampa Museum of Art showcases both contemporary and classical art. With a combined cost of $533, Tampa offers a beachy alternative to colder destinations.