30 Of The Best East Coast Winter Vacation Destinations

Looking to head out on an East Coast winter getaway?

A little weekend getaway can be a great way to combat the winter blues, and luckily you don’t need to go far from home. In fact, this beautiful part of the country offers some great winter getaways.

Read on for the best East Coast winter vacation destinations!

Best East Coast Winter Vacation Destinations

White Mountains of New Hampshire  

If a weekend on the slopes is your idea of a perfect winter getaway then you’ll love the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding at one of the area’s many ski resorts, go for a dogsledding ride, or take in the mountain views while snowshoeing.

This winter wonderland is the perfect place to rent out a cabin for the entire family and enjoy a weekend in the great outdoors or simply curled up by the fireplace.

Book a cozy mountain home or check into a luxury resort like Omni Mount Washington.

For more ideas, check out New Hampshire White Mountains Top Things To Do.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 38° / 24° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 29° / 13°
• January – 23° / 6°
• February – 24° / 8°

New York City, New York

The Big Apple calls to many no matter the time of year, but especially during the holidays.

Despite the poor weather this incredible city, famed for miles of dizzying skyscrapers, draws millions from around the world.

The city that never sleeps offers countless things to do from world-class museums, endless districts to explore, and every food you could imagine!

Additionally, during winter you can ice skate under the towering skyscrapers in Central Park, Rockefeller Center, or Bryant Park.

Whatever piques your interest, you will find it here in New York City.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 55° / 42° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 44° / 31°
• January – 39° / 26°
• February – 43° / 29°

Orlando, Florida

Central Florida’s pleasant, dry winters are ideal for a warm winter vacation on the East Coast — and Orlando is a great spot to explore.

See a rocket launch from the Kennedy Space Center, go for an airboat tour, stroll around Lake Eola Park, or day trip to a nearby state park such as Blue Spring State Park (winter is manatee season!).

Or lets face it, maybe you just need an excuse to visit Disney World and Universal Orlando, and that’s perfectly fine.

Winter, outside of the holidays, can be an especially great time to see Orlando and its world-famous attractions thanks to significantly fewer crowds.

You May Also Like: Warm Winter Vacations In The USA

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 78° / 59° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 75° / 55°
• January – 72° / 51°
• February – 75° / 54°

Cape May, New Jersey

Beaches, boardwalks, and grand Victorian homes make up the gorgeous seaside resort town of Cape May, New Jersey.

Winter is the off season here, so it can be a great time to snag a hotel deal and enjoy the quiet beach town free of crowds.

Bundle up and go for a stroll on the beach, sip wine at Cape May Winery & Vineyard, walk the shops and see the Cape May Lighthouse, then go for a delicious seafood during your winter getaway to Cape May.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 57° / 41° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 47° / 32°
• January – 42° / 27°
• February – 44° / 29°

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of many major cities worth enjoying for your East Coast winter vacation.

With its charming cobblestone streets, deep roots in American history, and huge variety of entertainment, it’s easy to plan a winter weekend here.

Best of all, this time of year can be great for snagging a good hotel deal.

During your visit, bundle up and walk the Freedom Trail, marvel at the Snowport Winter Village in Seaport, and browse iconic attractions like the Boston Public Library or Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

You May Also Like: Boston, Massachusetts Weekend Guide

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 52° / 38° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 42° / 28°
• January – 37° / 22°
• February – 39° / 24°

St. Augustine, Florida 

St. Augustine has a distinctly different vibe from other Florida cities.

As the oldest city in the state, its known for Spanish Colonial architecture, a 17th-century stone fortress, and, of course, gorgeous beaches.

Winter here sees mild, welcoming weather, making it a perfect winter getaway on the East Coast.

Visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, walk along the beach, and browse the shops and bistros along St. George Street during your winter visit.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 75° / 57° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 69° / 50°
• January – 67° / 46°
• February – 69° / 48°

The Hamptons, New York

Known for celebs, socialites, and picture-perfect beaches there’s nowhere quite like the Hamptons in summer.

So is it worth a winter visit? Absolutely!

The cold months are a great time to visit the Hamptons especially if you’re looking for fewer crowds and a quieter experience than the summer months. Not to mention, a smaller price tag.

This time of year, visit the Parrish Art Museum, go for a wine tasting at Wölffer Estate Vineyard, and watch for seals at Montauk Point State Park

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In The Hamptons In The Winter

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 53° / 37° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 44° / 29°
• January – 39° / 23°
• February – 40° / 24°

Savannah, Georgia 

You could spend days enjoying Savannah’s never-ending parks and historic homes.

Grand oak trees covered in Spanish moss, the famous Forsyth Fountain, and old cobblestone streets are just a few of the many charms you’ll experience in Savannah.

This picturesque, waterfront city is perfect for exploring during your winter weekend getaway. Go for a spooky ghost tour, treat yourself to classic Southern dishes, and day trip to nearby Tybee Island, you’ll find there’s no shortage of things to do here.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 70° / 49° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 64° / 45°
• January – 61° / 41°
• February – 64° / 45°

Charleston, South Carolina 

Charleston, South Carolina’s appeal is undeniable with an incredible number of historic pastel antebellum homes, cobblestone streets, and upscale shopping. 

You could easily spend your entire weekend getaway snapping an endless stream of Instagram-worthy photos here.

While here, visit the Civil War site, Fort Sumter, browse the Historic Charleston City Market, and wine and dine your way through the Historic District — don’t forget to check out famous Rainbow Row!

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 67° / 53° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 61° / 46°
• January – 57° / 43°
• February – 60° / 45°

Key West, Florida 

The southernmost point in the continental United States is the perfect place to soak in the sun and escape the winter blues.

Key West, Florida is famous for water sports, such as snorkeling and diving, charming pastel-hued architecture, and famous former-residents such as Ernest Hemingway.

This tropical destination offers plenty of winter activities like strolling the historic seaport, going for a rum distillery tour, catching a sunset from Mallory Square, or visiting Dry Tortugas National Park.

This is definitely a favorite among East Coast getaways in the winter!

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 79° / 72° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 77° / 70°
• January – 75° / 67°
• February – 76° / 68°

Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis should not be overlooked as an East Coast getaway.

The capital city of Maryland has picture-worthy cobblestone streets, a small, walkable downtown, the Maryland State House, and an adorable harbor area overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.

The town is also home to two college campuses, one of which is the Navel Academy, so there’s no doubt the town has plenty of dining, nightlife, and entertainment options.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 58° / 42° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 49° / 35°
• January – 45° / 30°
• February – 47° / 31°

Roanoke, Virginia 

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia is the city of Roanoke, an easy vacation spot for families this winter.

The town is known for quality museums, wine country, and outdoor recreation. Plus of course, Mill Mountain Star — the world’s largest freestanding illuminated man-made star, constructed in 1949.

Winter activities here include sledding, ice skating, and exploring Shenandoah National Park.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 59° / 38° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 50° / 32°
• January – 46° / 28°
• February – 50° / 30°

Upstate New York

Winter in Upstate New York is gorgeous, albeit freezing cold.

Imagine skiing the Adirondacks, snowshoeing the Catskills, wine tasting in the Finger Lakes, viewing Niagara Falls without the summer crowds — just be sure to dress extra warm! — or simply curling up in a cabin with hot chocolate.

There’s an endless stream of winter activities waiting to be explored in Upstate New York.

You May Also Like: The Best Winter Getaways In Upstate New York

Average Temperatures (taken from Albany, New York): 

• November – 49° / 31° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 36° / 21°
• January – 31° / 14°
• February – 35° / 16°

Tampa, Florida 

As one of Florida’s most populated cities you’ll have no problem finding fun things to do in Tampa.

Explore the Tampa Riverwalk or Sparkman’s Wharf, take the kids to Busch Gardens, or check out trendy Ybor City. If you have the time, also consider a day trip to one of the area’s beautiful natural springs such as Weeki Wachee Springs.

No matter what you do, you’re sure to have a blast in this warm Florida city during your East Coast winter vacation.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 78° / 59° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 73° / 54°
• January – 71° / 51°
• February – 73° / 53°

Hilton Head, South Carolina 

Winter may be the cold season on this island, but take that with a grain of salt, the island’s subtropical climate still lends itself nicely to ample winter activities.

Golf, bike the quiet beaches, indulge in oysters — winter is prime season! — kayak the lagoon, and take in the Spanish moss-covered live oaks.

Hilton Head Island is a peaceful beach destination perfect for a winter vacation.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 70° / 49° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 62° / 42°
• January – 60° / 39°
• February – 63° / 41°

Atlanta, Georgia 

As the capital city of Georgia and the transportation hub of the South, a winter vacation to Atlanta couldn’t be easier.

Come for the impressive restaurant and nightlife scene, and explore the many different neighborhoods throughout this bustling city.

Don’t forget to also visit the city’s countless museums, such as the National Center for Civil & Human Rights. Did you know Atlanta was the birthplace Martin Luther King Jr.?

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 64° / 41° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 55° / 35°
• January – 53° / 33°
• February – 58° / 36°

Stowe, Vermont 

Ski lovers, rejoice! Stowe, Vermont has some of the best East Coast skiing and a really fun downtown area.

Sitting at the base of Mount Mansfield, this is the perfect East Coast winter destination for those who want to enjoy some cold weather fun. 

Hit one of the 100+ ski trails between Stowe Mountain Resort and Smugglers’ Notch Resort Ski Resort, enjoy après ski with local craft beers or hot cocoa, and go for a Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory tour — yes, it’s okay to eat ice cream in winter.

This is the perfect town for booking a chic mountain cabin or fun hotel resort.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 33° / 20° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 23° / 8°
• January – 17° / 2°
• February – 19° / 4°

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

The City of Brotherly Love is a great winter weekend getaway in the Northeast.

Philly has tons of enjoyable attractions such as museums, historic sites, and marketplaces. Not to mention delicious food and nightlife that welcomes everyone. 

A winter visit here will be a chilly one, however, it’s easy to avoid the cold weather thanks to the abundance of indoor activities available. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, brush up on your US history at the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall, and indulge in the countless dining options at Reading Terminal Market.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 56° / 42° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 46° / 34°
• January – 41° / 28°
• February – 45° / 30°

Washington D.C. 

The United States Capital is a bustling, compact city located on the Potomac River between Virginia and Maryland.

It’s a city dominated by politics, international influences, and easily the best museums in the country. Oh, and a fantastic restaurant scene!

The list of things to do in Washington D.C., no matter the time of year, is an endless one. See the national monuments without all the summer crowds, visit one of the 17 free Smithsonian museums, and browse the shops in Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 59° / 37° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 48° / 30°
• January – 43° / 25°
• February – 47° / 27°

Newport, Rhode Island 

Newport is another city on this East Coast winter vacation list that absolutely oozes charm.

This is a favorite destination among many thanks to a stunning harbor front, historic mansions, and posh eateries.

The town is most well-known for summer-friendly activities, such as sailing and tennis, but winter visitors can still enjoy many activities.

Consider visiting The Sailing Museum and International Tennis Hall of Fame, tour one of the town’s many incredible mansions, and watch for wintering birds at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Newport, Rhode Island 

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 53° / 43° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 45° / 34°
• January – 38° / 28°
• February – 39° / 28°

The Berkshires, Massachusetts 

The Berkshires are a quiet, mountainous region of western Massachusetts.

This vacation destination is most popular in summer and autumn — you can find incredible fall foliage here — but winter can also be a great time to visit.

If you enjoy farm-to-table dining, an impressive arts scene, spas, and outdoor winter activities like snowshoeing, you’ll find yourself right at home in the Berkshires.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 48° / 28° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 37° / 20°
• January – 32° / 12°
• February – 36° / 14°

Asheville, North Carolina  

Another exciting winter destination for the outdoor lover is Asheville, North Carolina.

This small city is situated in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains near Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Pisgah National Forest. This ideal location means Asheville is surrounded by seemingly endless outdoor activities, so this can be a great time to enjoy a quiet biking or hiking trail.

Even if you’re not up for outdoor winter activities, the city still offers fantastic food, art galleries, craft breweries, the famous Biltmore Estate & Gardens, and an excellent live music scene. 

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 58° / 38° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 50° / 31°
• January – 47° / 28°
• February – 51° / 31°

Portsmouth, New Hampshire 

Located at the mouth of the Piscataqua River is Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Known for historic 17th and 18th century buildings, bustling Market Square, and of course, a huge port, this is a popular East Coast vacation destination year-round.

Enjoy tax-free boutique shopping in downtown Portsmouth, bundle up and admire the waterfront views, and admire historic architecture throughout downtown during your cold weather visit.

Best of all, winter is a great time to snag a low price hotel in Portsmouth.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 49° / 38° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 38° / 26°
• January – 33° / 21°
• February – 36° / 23°

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 

Those looking for a quiet seaside getaway this winter, head to Rehoboth Beach, a beautiful town situated on Delaware’s Atlantic Coast.

This small town features charming storefronts, local businesses, and lots of delicious seafood.  Stroll the quiet beaches, shop tax-free at the Tanger Outlets, and grab a local pint from Dogfish Head Brewings.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 57° / 46° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 50° / 38°
• January – 44° / 32°
• February – 46° / 33°

Miami, Florida 

Miami is one of the most tropical destinations in mainland United States. It sees fantastic year-round weather, some of the best beaches in the country, plus diverse culture and cuisine.

Top that with epic nightlife, and the city makes for an unforgettable getaway.

During a winter getaway here, stroll the famous shops, restaurants, and art-deco architecture on Ocean Drive, go for salsa lessons in Little Havana, check out the Coconut Grove Art Festival, or visit a nearby national park such as Everglades or Biscyane National Park.

You May Also Like:  Miami, Florida Weekend Guide

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 79° / 70° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 76° / 65°
• January – 74° / 63°
• February – 75° / 64°

Pocono Mountains Of Pennsylvania 

In the far-eastern region of Pennsylvania, bordering the stunning Delaware Gap, are the Pocono Mountains.

Winter in the Poconos means sleigh rides, skiing, snowmobiling, and tubing — there’s no doubt this is one of the most charming winter getaways.

Book a big mountain cabin with friends and family for a winter getaway you won’t be soon to forget.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 47° / 31° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 36° / 22°
• January – 31° / 16°
• February – 34° / 18°

Naples, Florida 

Located on the southern Gulf Shores of Florida is the much-loved resort town of Naples.

Known for miles of fine white sand beaches, art galleries, high-end shopping, and the popular Naples Pier, you’ll love this tropical winter getaway.

Book your flight now, and you’ll be lounging on the beach in no time.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 81° / 64° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 76° / 59°
• January – 74° / 56°
• February – 77° / 58°

Helen, Georgia

Located in the mountain region of northeast Georgia, and inspired by the villages of Germany, is the adorable resort town of Helen.

Well-loved for vineyards, charming Bavarian-style architecture, and ample outdoor recreation, this small town is one of the South’s best hidden gems.

Winter here is chilly in comparison to other parts of the South, but perfectly mild compared to the Northeast.

This makes it an excellent East Coast vacation spot during the cooler months.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 61° / 37° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 53° / 32°
• January – 50° / 29°
• February – 55° / 31°

Mystic, Connecticut  

Mystic, Connecticut is the perfect New England getaway.

Once known as a seaport town with a knack for building ships, today it’s admired for a charming downtown area, ample entertainment options, and delicious pizza.

Whether you enjoy museums, exploring the outdoors, or learning about the town’s past at the Maritime Seaport Museum, Mystic has something for everyone to enjoy.

This is a great family-friendly East Coast vacation.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Mystic, Connecticut 

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 53° / 36° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 43° / 27°
• January – 38° / 21°
• February – 40° / 23°

Portland, Maine

If you enjoy cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a charming waterfront, consider Portland for your winter weekend getaway on the East Coast.

There’s so much to do in this city from walking the working harbor, exploring lighthouses, or enjoying the city’s many excellent dining options. 

Just be sure to bundle up, Portland does get quite cold in winter.

Average Temperatures: 

• November – 48° / 31° (Average High / Low F°)
• December – 37° / 20°
• January – 31° / 13°
• February – 34° / 16°

East Coast National Parks To Visit In Winter

Looking for a national park to enjoy this winter? Consider the following East Coast national parks:

• Acadia National Park – Maine
• Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
• New River Gorge National Park – West Virginia
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park – North Carolina / Tennessee 
• Congaree National Park – South Carolina 
• Everglades National Park – Florida
• Biscayne National Park – Florida
• Dry Tortugas National Park – Florida

You May Also Like: Warmest National Parks In Winter

International Winter Vacation Destinations Near The East Coast

Those itching to stamp their passports, but don’t want to go too far, consider the following vacation destinations this winter. Most destinations listed below are only a few hours from New York City by plane:

Caribbean Islands:

• Bermuda
• Turks & Caicos Islands
• Puerto Rico (no passport required)
• The Bahamas
• Dominican Republic 
• Cuba
• Jamaica 
• US Virgin Islands (no passport required)
• Ambergris Caye, Belize

Mexico:

• Cancun
• Playa del Carmen
• Tulum

Canada:

• Toronto, Canada
• Montreal, Canada
• Québec City, Canada

You May Also Like: The Best Mexico Winter Vacation Destinations

As you can see, there are tons of great East Coast winter getaways! I hope you’ve found this list helpful in planning your trip and have the best time.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional East Coast guides or check out these Warm Winter Getaways In The USA!