12 Best Places to Travel in February
If you’re ready to travel in February, these destinations offer a little something for everyone to love
Considering a road trip or weekend getaway this month? Let us help you find your destination match. From cold-weather locales that thrive on winter fun to the temperate breezes of off-season beaches, here are twelve of the best places to travel in February.
1. Miami, Florida
If you’re in search of a warm winter weather destination, then Miami is hands down one of the best places to visit in February. Here, you’ll enjoy 70-degree temperatures and plenty of sunshine. For socially distant fun in the sun, check out this Florida city’s shores—it’s home to some of the best winter beaches in the country. The city’s bicycle rentals have resumed with cleaning and sanitation protocols in place, so you can pedal along the beachfront, admire the pastel-colored Art Deco district or head to one of the area’s many trendy patio dining options.
2. San Antonio, Texas
From the Alamo to the Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio’s rich history and natural beauty enchant travelers and locals alike. San Antonio is also one of the best warm places to visit in February, in large part due to many pathways perfect for a pleasant stroll. The 15-mile-long San Antonio River Walk is one of Texas’ star attractions, meandering through downtown San Antonio. Wander the tree-lined route lined with historic buildings, charming shops and casual and gourmet restaurants. Temperate weather pairs well with the area’s countless outdoor dining options—so be sure to stop for a taste of Texas at famous establishments like Casa Rio or the Pearl Brewery complex.
2. San Diego, California
The weather in San Diego is reliably spectacular all year, with February’s temperatures in the high 60s. It’s Museum Month, so the whole family can discover (or rediscover) its diverse, fabulous aquariums, historic sites, gardens, museums and zoo with half-price discounts. February is also an excellent month for whale watching—by land or sea. Each year more than 20,000 gray whales make the 10,000-mile journey from Alaska to the lagoons of Baja California—the longest migration of any mammal. It’s a thrilling spectacle to observe these gentle giants. San Diego Whale Watch has a variety of tours with special deals for military members and midweek guests.
4. Fort Worth, Texas
With average temperatures in the low 60s, Fort Worth is another one of the best places to visit in February. Head to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, a beautifully preserved wilderness comprised of forests, prairies and wetlands. The center hosts weekly hikes throughout February, offering more than 20 miles of trails for walking, jogging or biking. February is ideal for a hike in Fort Worth, as wildflowers are already starting to bloom! For even more Fort Worth fun, head to Sundance Square, a 35-block pedestrian-friendly downtown district full of retail and dining venues.
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, a vibrant city with an array of things to do almost any time of year, ranks high on our list of best February vacation destinations. Take a romantic carriage ride down cobblestone streets and sip coffee or mimosas at sidewalk cafe. For a taste of authentic Southern cuisine, grab a seat at the critically acclaimed Husk. For a fairy tale-like scene, head to nearby Johns Island to see the 66-foot-tall Angel Oak Tree. This majestic local legend is estimated to be nearly 500 years old. Also be sure to stroll through one of the city’s many gardens, as Camellia flowers start to bloom in the low country in February.
6. Napa Valley, California
February is a fine time to visit the world-famous wineries of Napa Valley, California with temperatures that hover in the low 60s. Pack in layers and bring a windbreaker—you might experience a little light rain. Wine tasting reservations will be easier to nab—it’s cabernet season—but foodies will also want to carve out time at the CIA at Copia. The Culinary Institute of America offers a slate of hands-on, themed cooking classes. If you’d rather let the pros work the kitchen, enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired lunch indoors or outdoors. After stimulating your taste buds, give your ears some attention. One of the best places to hear live music is at the historic Blue Note, a gem nestled within the Napa Valley Opera House.
7. Orlando, Florida
There's always plenty of fun waiting for travelers to enjoy in Orlando, Florida—in the theme parks and beyond. In February, beautiful weather awaits, making the city a perfect destination for outdoor adventures. Golfers will enjoy the numerous historic courses, while kayaking and paddle-boarding enthusiasts can take to the area’s lakes. Or, enjoy natural wonders at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens or on a private manatee tour. At ICON Park, you can board the 400-foot observation wheel to admire surrounding lakes and get a bird’s eye view of the area’s world-famous theme parks.
8. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis has long been known for its music scene, and while the live entertainment options may be more limited in 2021, there’s still so much for music fans to enjoy. Explore the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, which highlights the roots of soul and rock ‘n’ roll music. At Elvis Presley’s Graceland, you can explore more than 100 acres dedicated to the King. Museums and attractions are limiting capacity at this time, so be sure to check websites for guidelines and advance ticket reservation information. Finally, no visit to Memphis is complete without a stroll down the iconic Beale Street—you’ll find great shopping and dining (including legendary barbecue), and many of its venues are open for safe live music experiences.
9. Santa Fe, New Mexico
The “City Different,” Santa Fe is an extraordinary—and extraordinarily memorable—destination. In February, fires blaze in many public spaces and chile-spiked hot chocolate is a menu staple. Though temperatures are only in the high 40s, the dry air and abundant sunshine are mood-boosters. A horseback ride in the pristine hush of desert winterscape is bracing and beautiful. Follow it up with a soak in a serene Japanese-style hot tub at Ten Thousand Waves. Cinephiles can screen a wide variety of flicks at the Santa Fe Film Festival. Santa Fe has been named one of the nation’s most romantic cities should you plan your visit during Valentine’s Day. Treat your sweetie to a gourmet meal at top-rated Geronimo or The Compound.
10. Golden, Colorado
You’ll find a lot of fun in February in Golden, Colorado with temperatures topping out in the high 40s to low 50s. Fancy yourself a treasure hunter? One-of-a-kind, glass orbs handcrafted by Colorado artists will be hidden daily by Foothills Art Center and on weekends, two will be hidden. “Finders keepers” for the lucky person. The city’s holiday lights remain on through mid-February, illuminating romantic creekside or downtown walks. Special Valentine’s dining deals are offered at a number of restaurants. Snowshoeing is in full swing. The experts at Mountain Side Gear & Rental can hook you up with equipment and advise you on the best trails whether you’re a beginner or experienced.
11. Alexandria, Virginia
During the first president’s birth month, explore the historic landmarks of his hometown of Alexandria, Virginia. The museums at Mount Vernon are open to the public—capacity is limited at this time, so be sure to purchase tickets online in advance and check for updates. Or, follow in George Washington’s footsteps in Old Town Alexandria, where you can take a self-guided historical tour. Beyond tours covering the president’s life, you’ll also find Alexandria guides to Black history, women’s history, Civil War history and more.
12. Salt Lake City, Utah
February in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers plenty to do for winter wanderers. Nearby Park City features great terrain and sites for skiing or snow tubing in the winter months. Want to take a tour of Downtown Salt Lake? Any Saturday throughout the year, you can participate in a unique scavenger hunt around the city. Guided by your smartphone, you’ll stop at Salt Lake City landmarks like the Union Pacific Depot and Temple Square, solving clues and completing challenges while learning about local history. Don’t leave without visiting the Natural History Museum of Utah, which offers spectacular views of the Salt Lake Valley—just keep in mind that tickets must be reserved online in advance at this time.