15 of the Coolest Winter Activities in the US, According to Viator Travelers

You don’t need to leave Manhattan to enjoy some of New York City’s most dazzling holiday light displays—the Rockefeller Center’s tree is legendary. But to see how ordinary New Yorkers put on a show, take a tour of Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights residential neighborhood, where front-yard light displays take festive cheer to new heights.

What one reviewer said: “This was a perfect plan after a very early and busy day for my family (...). The tour bus ride gave us an opportunity to get off our feet while enjoying the ride to Dyker Heights. The lights were amazing! It was like Christmas lights on steroids! Our tour guide was fabulous. She was full of energy and details about the area. (...)” Jan_S, February 2025

Strolling through Central Park may not seem so appealing in the winter, but the idea of ice skating in New York City at the park’s Wollman Rink might be enough to lure you outdoors. The rink is open between October and March, so you don’t even need to wait for the coldest days of midwinter to enjoy a spin on the ice here. Combine an admission ticket to the rink with a tour of the nearby St. Patrick’s Cathedral for indoor-outdoor fun.

Niagara Falls is a popular summer destination, but the three enormous waterfalls on the US–Canada border are arguably even more spectacular in winter. Although the Niagara River doesn’t totally freeze, the spray from the falls does, creating natural ice sculptures. Take a tour of the US side of the falls and enjoy great views across to the Canadian side. This has got to be one of the top winter experiences in the US.

What one reviewer said: “Wonderful! Our guide, Ed W, was extremely knowledgeable about our destinations and even stopped at a charming bakery!” Kama_N, December 2024

If you can’t make it to Europe this winter to visit the Christmas markets in Dresden or Prague, Chicago’s European-inspired Christkindlmarket might be the next best thing. Join a walking tour to help you navigate your way around the market, the ice-skating rink at Millennium Park, and store window displays downtown. Then, warm up with hot cider and German-Chicago hybrid cuisine. It's one of the best winter festivals in the US.

What one reviewer said: “If you're here in the city during the winter (especially if it's your first time), this is a great way to (start) your trip! See all the biggest sights and taste the signature tastes.” Pat_P, January 2025

Even the most dedicated yogis can feel the motivation to get on the mat drain away in the cold, dark winter. Instead of fighting the elements, embrace them during a fun “snowga” session from Park City, Utah. Snowshoe to the makeshift outdoor studio, warm up with a hot beverage, then roll out the mat and bust some asanas. Travelers looking for something different will love this unique winter activity in the US.

Thanks to its minimal light pollution, Utah’s Zion National Park is a great place to stargaze year-round. But winter is an especially beautiful time to take winter hikes in Utah, or join a stargazing tour, as long as you dress warmly. In mid-December you’ll be able to see bright meteors of the Geminid Meteor Shower, and throughout winter you can see the core of the Milky Way—translated, that means lots of bright stars.

What one reviewer said: “I had never seen so many stars and satellites in my life! It was a great experience and our guide made it very interesting by sharing all of his knowledge! We even got chairs and blankets and also hot chocolate!!” Francisco_C, November 2025

Have you even experienced winter if you haven’t traveled to Alaska in the colder months? The most epic winter travel ideas in the US often involve this northwestern state. For a family-friendly experience join a guided winter hike in Chugach State Park, near Anchorage. You’ll see ice dams along the river and the frozen Barbara Falls, and experience the winter wonderland of Alaska’s boreal forest—without any crowds.

What one reviewer said: "Beautiful area and beautiful walk. The river and waterfall are amazing. Stopped on the way to look at bears by the side of the road. Would definitely recommend.” Scott_S, April 2025

If you’ve made it up to Fairbanks, in Alaska’s isolated interior, you may as well push on even further and head up to the Arctic Circle in winter. However, winter driving can be hazardous—plus watching the road means you can’t focus on the views. Join a tour from Fairbanks, which follows the legendary Dalton Highway, and includes views of the Yukon River and the Alaskan wilderness, plus a stop at the Arctic Circle Trading Post.

What one reviewer said: “The trip was handled by a very knowledgeable guide who knew the areas and their history well. His leadership made the trip a great learning experience alongside the beautiful views.” Bryan_Y, August 2025

Now for something a little warmer. Winters are mild in coastal California, and December–April is the best time of year to spot migrating gray whales off the Northern California coast. It’s also common to see humpback whales, dolphins, harbor seals, sea lions—and even orcas. Whale-watching tours depart year-round from Monterey and include informative commentary from a naturalist guide.

What one reviewer said: “Great crew, especially the fantastic naturalist. Learned a ton and she was available one-on-one to answer all of our questions. They worked hard to make sure we saw a whale (we saw a humpback off-season) and Risso's dolphins.” Nicole_A, February 2025

Winter is a great season to get out onto Lake Tahoe for an active winter paddle because the lake is at its clearest—when clear, cold water rises to the surface. Taking a clear-bottom kayaking tour will give you the best views of the water, and the snowcapped mountains around the edge are picturesque, too.

What one reviewer said: “Spontaneously booked a 2 hour kayak tour as a solo the day of and had the best time with the group I ended up with! The location is easy to find, all the staff were great, and the views from the water are incredibly stunning! Highly recommend.” Julie_C, September 2025

If you dislike crowds, visit one of America’s most popular national parks, Yellowstone, in the off-season, for a winter wildlife tour. Most roads through the park are closed in winter so many people stay away, but joining a guided tour from Bozeman, Montana lets you access parts that are generally off-limits and inaccessible. As well as beautiful winter photography opportunities, you may even see more animals, which won’t be hiding from the crowds and constant traffic.

What one reviewer said: “Absolutely amazing experience with guide Gabrielle. She was friendly, (knowledgeable) and genuinely passionate about her job. We saw a mama Grizzly bear and her two cubs just outside of Yellowstone! So so lucky. As well as this, saw a plethora of bison, wolves, elk, a moose, bighorn sheep, a bald eagle, pronghorn. The snacks and lunch were a great addition. Couldn't fault a thing!” Sophie_W, November 2025

With a name like Glacier National Park, you can expect to see some stunning frozen landscapes year-round. In winter, take a tour of the western parts of the park, near West Glacier village, which remain open in fall and winter. You can see the snow- and ice-covered landscape at its best without having to drive yourself: definitely a top winter experience in the US.

What one reviewer said: “Justin our guide was prompt meeting us and proceeded to a wonderful trip through the park, sharing history, nature and personal experiences which made it so fun and intimate unlike the big bus tours. We were joined by two training guides Derek & Tanner who added their own passions of the park and experience to the trip! Highly recommend.” Lori_E, June 2025

Skiing in the Rocky Mountains is one of the most reliable and fun winter activities in the US, and if you’re equipped with the right gear, you’ll stay warm all day long, too. Simplify your Colorado ski vacation with a ski or snowboard rental and delivery to your accommodation at one of the best US ski resorts. There’s no need to stand in long lines waiting to be fitted either, as custom fitting is part of the service.

If you prefer your skiing slow and steady (rather than zooming downhill), head north to Wyoming’s Jackson Hole for a gentler cross-country skiing experience, a must-try winter activity in the US. Beginners and more experienced cross-country skiers can enjoy a half-day of guided skiing in Grand Teton National Park with a naturalist guide. Look out for snow-sprinkled bison and moose, and other wildlife, along the way. It's one of the best national parks in winter.

What one reviewer said: “Our guide,Tyler, was extremely knowledgeable and taught us the 5 techniques of cross-country skiing. We saw moose, elk and wolves. Tyler took us to north Grand Teton NP. It was awesome!” Frederick_C, March 2025

Perhaps you just don’t like cold weather—we get it. How about burying your head in the sand (and the rest of your body too, for that matter) and heading to Hawaii, the ultimate US winter destination? Join a guided tour of Oahu to check out some of its most beautiful waterfalls, lookouts, and beaches, then spend the rest of your time basking in the sun and pretending winter isn’t waiting for you back home.

What one reviewer said: “I learned a lot about Hawaii's culture and the beautiful surroundings on our drive around the Island. I recommend taking this tour in the beginning of your trip so you can learn about many places to visit while you are on the Island. So many breathtaking views on the tour.” Bill_L, November 2025