Where to Travel in America During Every Month of the Year

Some places only reveal their true character at a certain time of year. A resort town in the mountains in the hours after a fresh snowfall tells a markedly different story than it would when the wildflowers are in bloom at the start of spring. A coastal beach town is understandably livelier in July than October.

It can be tempting to chase an endless summer, but if you only book flights to Florida, you’ll be missing out on a whole host of hidden gems. There is no shortage of charming places in America to visit, and travellers who embrace the rhythm of the seasons, rather than resisting them, are more likely to have uniquely magical experiences.

Instead of asking where to travel next, perhaps the better question is when? 

January: Estes Park, Colorado

A famously scenic resort town with a lot of history, Estes Park’s luxury historic Stanley Hotel inspired The Shining and the high-altitude trails attract winter wayfarers every year. The temperatures might get low here at the base of the Rocky Mountains, but the sweeping alpine landscape is nothing short of awe-inspiring, and if you’re into winter sports and backcountry exploration, you’ll feel right at home. Cross-country skiing and snowshoe tours are popular for adventurers, but if you’re seeking a quieter pace, there are plenty of opportunities for cozy dining, stargazing, and romantic drives through the mountains.

February: Sedona, Arizona

This desert town is growing increasingly popular as a luxury destination, especially as an alternative to Joshua Tree for spiritualist and metaphysical types. The red-rock formations are majestic, the weather is mild, and hotels are less expensive, since this is the slow season in Arizona. Located just two hours north of Phoenix, Sedona packs a lot of weirdness into one relatively small city: it’s known for its “energy vortexes,” believed to encourage mental clarity, physical healing, and creative inspiration. While critics suggest this might all be a superstition, there’s no denying that Sedona has developed a strong artistic, spiritual, and cultural community.

March: New Orleans, Louisiana

Though the exact date of Mardi Gras changes with the lunar calendar, March is always a good time to visit Louisiana’s most vibrant city. The weather in the Big Easy is comfortable in early spring, making it the ideal time to embark on a walking tour through the French Quarter or visit one of the many neighborhood festivals and block parties that take over the streets this time of year, including the St. Patrick’s Day and Easter Parades. There’s lots to do and see during the daytime, so you’ll be grateful you came before the stifling Gulf Coast humidity set in. At night, there is no shortage of cool jazz bars to keep you occupied on Bourbon Street.

April: Antelope Valley, California

Located in the high desert north of Los Angeles, Antelope Valley is home to a massive natural poppy field that blooms throughout the late winter and early spring months, peaking in April. The California poppies native to this region are a stunning reddish-orange color, and they grow amidst other colorful wildflowers; the result is a striking mosaic of purples, blues, and yellows. Some fifty years ago, the vast Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve was designated as a state park, and its panoramic views are remarkable. It’s worth noting that while the sheer number of poppies is impressive, there are years that are more abundant than others.

May: Skagit Valley, Washington

In the northwestern corner of Washington, about halfway between Seattle and the Canadian border, the Skagit Valley boasts colorful tulips of all imaginable colors during the spring months. Pastoral country roads and quiet farmland along the Skagit River make this a pleasant escape for anyone feeling overburdened by the fast pace of city life. Popular weekend getaways include the flower market RoozenGaarde outside of the town of Mt. Vernon, and the coastal town of La Conner with its rugged mountain views and dramatic coastlines.

June: Camden, Maine

Popularized by the Gracie Abrams song with the same name, and frequently used as a setting in movies, Camden is a small seaport town located on Penobscot Bay that has managed to inspire a lot of people. It’s sometimes called “the jewel of the Maine coast,” and if you’re craving the quintessential New England experience, you’ll find it here. The harborfront views at sunset are nothing short of dreamlike, and avid hikers will love the trails of Camden Hills State Park. In June, visitors can experience the local jazz festival or take part in a historic walking tour.

July: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Locals would prefer to keep it a secret, but this quiet all-American lake town is getting attention, especially by California transplants. Coeur d’Alene is located in the northern Idaho panhandle, known for its untouched natural beauty and crystal-clear lakes. There’s ample opportunity for water sports on Lake Coeur d’Alene, along with golfing on pristine emerald-green courses and upscale dining near the world’s longest floating boardwalk. Despite the French name, this is a town that takes pride in its Americana; there are few places quite so perfect for a Fourth of July weekend getaway. 

August: Whitefish, Montana

August is the off-season in northwest Montana, and the scenic mountain town in the Rockies sits at the base of Glacier National Park, close to the Canadian border. The city has less than 8,000 permanent residents, but attracts its fair share of tourism thanks to its jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery and plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. Crystalline lakes, quiet beaches, and rustic eateries are all within reach, while adventurers can take on one of the many alpine drives in the mountains. Try something huckleberry-flavored, or pick some of the sweet berries yourself; they’re a local delicacy.

September: Hood River, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secret, Hood River is known as “Portland’s backyard” for its artsy vibes and craft brewery culture. This cute town is at its best in the early autumn months when the weather is just beginning to change. A port town on the Columbia River, it is the only city in Oregon that doesn’t restrict alcohol consumption at all, so you can walk happily down the street with a glass of wine or sip a cocktail in the park. While it’s undeniably a playground for hipsters, it’s also an attractive vacation spot for outdoorsy types, in part because of its status as the windsurfing capital of the world. Fans of this niche sport can be seen on the water all summer long, catching the wind that funnels up the river.

October: Woodstock, Vermont

Widely regarded as Vermont’s most picturesque town, and arguably America’s prettiest town period, Woodstock has developed its reputation due to its idyllic New England tranquility: cobblestone sidewalks, quaint historic buildings, covered bridges, and cozy farm-to-table restaurants. Like all East Coast states, Vermont is best seen dressed in its autumn colors, but Woodstock attracts the lion’s share of worn-down New Yorkers escaping upstate to see the leaves. The town’s population is only 3,000, with most of the business based around tourism: charming inns, inviting coffee shops, and artisanal country stores.

November: Beaufort, South Carolina

The Carolinas can be brutal in the summer, and the Christmas season tends to be a little too hectic. Traveling to the Lowcountry in the pre-holiday hush is a breath of fresh air. Beaufort, located on Port Royal Island, is the second-oldest city in South Carolina after Charleston and continues to attract history buffs due to its striking antebellum mansions. Quaint bookstores and boutiques line the historic district in the shadow of moss-covered oak trees. Some of the scenery will trigger a sense memory: dozens of iconic movies were filmed here, including Forrest Gump.

December: Leavenworth, Washington

For the truly whimsical holiday experience, head no further than the Cascades in central Washington, where this Bavarian-inspired village keeps the festive spirit alive all season long during their Christmastown celebration. Half a million Christmas lights twinkle from morning to night, while German restaurants serve comfort food reminiscent of the old country. Mom-and-pop shops, including the world-famous Christmas store Kris Kringl, line the main street, giving tourists ample opportunity to buy gifts they wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the whole family can enjoy live music and horn blowing throughout the season. There’s even a reindeer farm.