Skip to Content

37 Warm Places to Visit in January in the USA

The excitement of the festive season and the first snowfall is unlike any other time of the year. But a few weeks after you’ve ushered in the new year, making snow angels and drinking hot cocoa doesn’t seem appealing anymore.

With the dipping temperature bringing in a dreary feel, you long for a warmer place.

Lucky for you, January is a great month to travel with reduced fares (when I say reduced, I mean compared to the holiday season) and plenty of warmer destinations to pick from.

Whether you long for beaches, theme parks, national parks, or resorts, here’s a list of 37 warm places to visit in January in the USA to get you away from the gloomy days.

37 Warm Places to Visit in the USA in January

In Arizona

1. Phoenix

Average temperature: 46 – 69 degrees Fahrenheit

phoenix
phoenix

Phoenix is perfectly pleasant in January when much of the country is freezing. Unfortunately, hotel rates aren’t very pleasant during this time; consider booking early for a reasonable price.

Outdoors is the place to be in the Valley of the Sun, and activities are abundant for your warm escape. Go on a long hike on some of the steep hiking trails, play Top Golf in a 240-yard outfield, or shop in malls or local stores for some amazing sales and discounts.

phoenix arizona
phoenix arizona

Don’t miss out on the Zoolights in Phoenix Zoo, a popular Phoenix attraction in January and an amazing sight to behold. Equally mesmerizing is the World Lantern Festival, which has lights (obviously), global cultures, cuisines, carnival rides, and games.

Go the extra mile and take the Polar Express train tour, just like the one in the movie.

Consider staying at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa to make your visit special.

2. Sedona

Average temperature: 34 – 58 degrees Fahrenheit

With crisp weather, sunny blue skies, and gorgeous Red Rocks, Sedona is a sight to behold in January.

airport view seonda sunset
airport view

Home to some of the Western United States’ most iconic and scenic hiking vacations, you can indulge in some daytime outdoor adventure hiking along the Soldier Pass Trail (past an enormous sinkhole), the Seven Sacred Pools, or the Devil’s Bridge.

The nights can get a bit chilly, so don’t forget to bring along a jacket.

Get your adrenaline pumping with an ATV tour, zooming across dusty backroads past endless forests and beautiful cliffs. Equally exciting is riding on a helicopter or hot air balloon over the canyons for some unforgettable views.

cathedral rock
cathedral rock

For souvenir shopping, head to Tlaquepaque Village to find something unique and sip on warming masala chai.

With hotel prices slashed down this time of the year here, you could stay at the Sky Ranch Lodge or Enchantment Resort.

3. Tucson

Average temperature: 42 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit

arizona sonora desert museum
arizona sonora desert museum

Sunny Tucson is a blessing in disguise for hiking enthusiasts. The local favorites include Sabino Canyon and Mount Lemmon. For some bird watching, go towards Madera Canyon.

For soaking in nature without a trek, visit Tucson Botanical Gardens or the Saguaro National Park for some lovely desert scenery.

sabino canyon
sabino canyon

Other fun venues include the Zoppé Family Circus, the Annual Dillinger Days at Hotel Congress (for whiskey tasting, live music, premium cigars, delicious appetizers, and more), the Tucson Museum of Art, and the Pima Air and Space Museum.

My stay recommendation is the Hotel Congress, a historic hotel with nightclubs, bars, a music venue, and a unique rock ‘n’ roll vibe.

4. Saguaro National Park

Average temperature: 46 – 64 degrees Fahrenheit

The scenic drives and short walks among the towering cacti make Saguaro National Park a magical destination in January.

saguaro park west sunset

No trip to this place is complete without truly appreciating the forests of the Saguaro Cactus (the largest cactus in the United States). Walk the Valley View Overlook Trail to get close to these cacti, prickly pears, and ironwood trees.

saguaro national park east warm places to visit in January in the usa
saguaro national park east

Step back in time by almost a thousand years by walking the short trail to Signal Hill, where you get to see rock art (petroglyphs) drawn by the prehistoric Hohokam people. And for the best views of the park, hike to Wassen peak (an 8-mile round trip).

I can’t suggest a better place to stay than Westward Look Wyndham if you plan on staying a couple of days.

5. Scottsdale

Average temperature: 42 – 68 degrees Fahrenheit

scottsdale arizona
scottsdale arizona

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale in January is about as perfect as it gets, with sunny, blue skies.

It’s the perfect time to explore the Sonoran Desert for scenic hikes, rugged off-road tours, hot air balloon flights, paddle boarding, or kayaking on the local lakes and rivers.

scottsdale arizona
scottsdale arizona

You could also take a swing at desert golf in any of the 200 golf courses here (TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, Grayhawk).

One of the highlights of Arizona in January, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon, runs through Tempe, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, with live performers along the route. Join in the run or be a spectator for this entertaining event.

Make your visit memorable with a stay at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows.

In California

6. Palm Springs

Average temperature: 45 – 71 degrees Fahrenheit

The heart of the California Desert, Palm Springs, is all about its warm weather, boutique hotels, artsy stores, and trendy cafes.

One of the many festivals and events lined up in January is the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Don’t miss riding on the world’s largest rotating tram car – the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

palm springs

Spend a day at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens nearby Palm Desert (a delight for adults and children alike) or take a hike in the desert (the Thousand Palms Oasis in the Coachella Valley Preserve).

If you’re an art buff, head to the Palm Springs Art Museum or tour the local architecture (dating to the middle of the 20th century) to admire the style of many homes.

palm springs

Stay at The Wescott; it has an outdoor pool, a hot tub and a fantastic ambiance.

7. San Diego

Average temperature: 49 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit

san diego downtown skyline

This Southern California coastal city is perfect for your January getaway. 

La Jolla Cove is the spot for the sand and sea. Another exciting place to visit is Balboa Park; it has interesting museums, promenades, and an artistic village selling local art. The San Diego Zoo is also a must.

In January, you can catch events like the San Diego Black Film Festival and the San Diego Brew Fest.

Other places worth visiting include Cabrillo National Monument, Old Town San Diego, Seaport Village, and the Gaslamp Quarter.

la jolla beach california
la jolla beach

There is no place like Hotel del Coronado for your stay; it even appeared in the Marilyn Monroe starred 1958 movie – Some Like It Hot.

8. Death Valley National Park

Average temperature: 40 – 67 degrees Fahrenheit

A hike or a camp in Death Valley National Park, while unimaginable at any other time of the year with its infamously high temperature, is the perfect outdoor activity in January. Don’t forget to get your sunblock and sunglasses.

death valley
death valley

The bounty of nature here is gorgeous and surreal. Check out the Ubehebe Crater and Artist’s Palette for jaw-dropping natural sights. The stunning salt flats in the Badwater basin are at the lowest point in North America.

You’ll be spellbound by the night skies coming alive with constellations, planets, and even glimpses of the International Space Station.

death valley

Catch the sunset at Zabriskie Point or visit the Mesquite Flat for a more picturesque experience.

The Ranch at Death Valley and The Inn at Death Valley are both great stays in the heart of the park.

9. Santa Barbara

Average temperature: 46 – 65 degrees Fahrenheit

santa barbara california

Santa Barbara is the ultimate destination for amazing sunsets, great surf, and perfect hiking weather all day.

With the fog-free coast, you can go for a Sunset Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor for a spectacular twilight sky viewing. If you’re in for some adventure, hike up to Montecito Peak, with a creek, a small waterfall, and panoramic views from the peak.

Santa Barbara happens to be a prime whale-watching destination to witness the gray whale migration between December and April every year.

santa-barbara-california
santa-barbara-california

It’s also the Monarch Butterfly season, and you can view several of these bright orange butterflies in their natural habitat at The Goleta Butterfly Grove. Also, drop by the Old Mission Santa Barbara and County Courthouse to witness marvelous architecture.

Stay at the Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach, a Mediterranean-style hotel that provides free bike rentals.

10. Los Angeles

Average temperature: 48 – 68 degrees Fahrenheit

griffiths observatory los angeles
griffiths observatory

With moderate temperatures and crystal-clear blue skies, you can enjoy vibrant cultural events, world-class cuisines, and a plethora of entertainment in Los Angeles.

January is when Lunar New Year celebrations occur across the city. Indulge in authentic Asian cuisine, shop for handmade goods, and play carnival games at Monterey Park Lunar New Year Festival.

The cherry on top is a visit to Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood sans the three-hour lines of the peak season.

Santa_Monica_Pier_Sunset_Los_Angeles_California.jpg
Santa Monica Pier

If you want to lounge around the beach, South Bay, LA, is the best place to do so. You can also bike or rollerblade down ‘the Strand’ here or play beach volleyball.

Stay at Freehand Los Angeles and enjoy the rooftop pool and bar among the many facilities.

You might enjoy reading my article on best places to visit in October in the United States.

11. Santa Catalina Island

Average temperature: 50 – 63 degrees Fahrenheit

Santa Catalina’s weather is among the many wonders of this Southern California vacation destination.

santa catalina island california
santa catalina island california

Apart from its luxurious beaches and splendid resorts, the off-peak season allows you to explore the island to your satisfaction. You can go bicycling, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, or even play mini-golf here.

santa catalina island
santa catalina island

The zipline on Catalina Island is a must-try for thrill seekers. Other adventurous activities include camping along the Trans-Catalina Trail and embarking on the Garden to Sky day hike.

Feast on some of the best seafood at Bluewater Avalon or Lobster Trap. And while you can visit this place on a day trip, if you plan to spend the night, stay at Bellanca Hotel.

12. Malibu

Average temperature: 50 – 66 degrees Fahrenheit

malibu
malibu

There’s never a bad time to visit Malibu, and there’s no shortage of things to do here.

This beachfront city along the Pacific is a popular destination for the rich and famous. While you can stroll along the beach, you could also visit the magnificent Getty Villa to see a stunning collection of Roman and Greek art.

california sunset in malibu
Malibu

You can hike and explore the craggy caves along the scenic coastline at Point Dume State Beach. Not to forget, it’s also the whale-watching season here.

Visit the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art at Pepperdine University if it rains and you can’t go for any outdoor activities.

Make your visit memorable by staying at the Malibu Beach Inn.

In Florida

13. Florida Keys

Average temperature:  67 – 73 degrees Fahrenheit

key west sunset boat
key west

You’ll never be at a loss for something to do in the Florida Keys in January.

Foodies will love sampling the world-famous, freshly caught seafood at the annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival in Key West. The Key West Food and Wine Festival is a six-day adventure for your taste buds for some great wining and dining.

There’s also the Key West Craft Show, where you can admire or purchase local art.

cruisin tikis key west sunset
cruisin tikis key west sunset

If you’re keen on seeing dolphins in their natural surroundings, board Fury’s Key West Dolphin & Snorkel Tour and see these incredible marine mammals resting, playing, and feeding.

The Santa Maria Suites Resort is only a block from the Atlantic Ocean and Duval Street (with its shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and art galleries) and is a great stay.

14. Miami

Average temperature:  60 – 76 degrees Fahrenheit

One of the best places to visit in Florida any time of the year, Miami is all about beaches, shopping, restaurants, and more.

miami florida at sunset
miami florida at sunset

Miami Beach, one of the most famous US beaches, is perfect for beach bums. Among the incredible urban parks in Miami, David T. Kennedy Park is great for a stroll and a frozen slushie from A.C.’s food truck.

Another splendid Miami destination, South Beach, has endless shopping, gorgeous art deco architecture, and epic nightlife. Don’t miss the Art Deco Walking Tour in South Beach to learn what makes the area unique.

art deco buildings miami
art deco buildings miami

Stay at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, which features a full-service spa, outdoor pool, hot tub, and city or ocean views from all rooms. 

15. Orlando

Average temperature: 50 – 71 degrees Fahrenheit

Icon Park Orlando
Icon Park Orlando

When you think Orlando, you’re bound to think theme park, and there’s no time like January to go theme park-hopping.

Visit Typhoon Lagoon, SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove, and Disney’s Blizzard Beach, which are fully heated and open all year round. But, of course, there are also the ones not to be missed – SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and Disney World’s five signature theme parks.

Walt Disney World orlando
Walt Disney World orlando

You can also explore beautiful natural outdoor spaces like Weeki Wachee Springs State Park or Wekiwa Springs State Park.

A convenient stay for Disney visitors is any of Disney World’s 32 resorts.

16. Anna Maria Island

Average temperature: 52 – 71 degrees Fahrenheit

Nothing says Old Florida, with incredibly pristine beaches like Anna Maria Island – a perfect warm destination to visit in January. You’ve got a great getaway in January with fewer crowds and cheaper rates on beachfront vacation rentals. 

anna Maria Island
anna Maria Island

Also, it’s nearly impossible to go anywhere near Anna Maria Island without spotting a golf course. So go for some tee time at Timber Creek Golf Course, Key Royal Club Inc., or Bradenton Country Club.

From outdoor activities like bicycling, kayaking, and hiking to relaxing on Bean Point Beach to see the sunset or sunrise, you can immerse yourself in this island’s slow lifestyle the way you want to.

For the best stay on the island, go for Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound. The hotel’s highlights include a sun terrace, an outdoor pool, and fantastic seafood.

17. Tampa

Average temperature: 52 – 71 degrees Fahrenheit

tampa bay florida

Tampa is yet another worthy destination among the many warm places to visit in Florida in January.

A smorgasbord of adventure, nature, events, and delicious eats, it is a perfect spot to have fun and relax. The clear skies and sunny weather year-round are perfect for bike rides or strolls along the well-maintained pedestrian pathway of Tampa Riverwalk.

If you’re the adventurous kind, take your pick from camping, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in the Hillsborough River State Park. Also, don’t miss checking out the world’s first cupcake ATM of Sprinkles; it dispenses freshly baked cupcakes and cookies 24/7.

tampa bay

Other places worth visiting here are Busch Gardens (a world-renowned amusement park), the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center.

Stay at the Hotel South Tampa & Suites and enjoy their heated outdoor pool – perfect for the January weather.

18. Cedar Key

Average temperature: 47 – 64 degrees Fahrenheit

Cedar Key Sunset in florida
Cedar Key

Cedar Key, Florida’s second oldest town, remains spared of the usual Florida crowds, making it the perfect spot to visit in January.

It’s the month of boating activities, so go for a sunset tour or a coastal island tour for splendid views. The Atsena Otie Key is an excellent place if you’re a nature or history lover, and you can get there by ferry.

cedar key
cedar key

Your trip to Cedar Key is incomplete without a visit to Dock Street, the busiest area in the town, with waterfront restaurants. From Cedar Key Fishing Pier to Cedar Key Beach, Dock Street will spoil you for choice.

A unique place to stay is the Island Hotel, one of Florida’s oldest hotels (as old as 1859).

19. St. Augustine

Average temperature: 46 – 66 degrees Fahrenheit

A great place to get away, no matter the time of the year, St. Augustine has fewer crowds and great deals on accommodation in January.

Casa Monica, St Augustine
Casa Monica, St Augustine

Visit Anastasia State Park for a relaxing afternoon kayaking or birdwatching. It features tidal marshes, pristine white-sand beaches, and maritime hammocks spread over 1600 acres. 

If you’re among the daring visitors, take a ghost tour (St. Augustine is one of America’s most haunted cities) at the Ghosts and Gravestones or the Old Prison.

While meandering down St. George Street in the Historic District and walking past art galleries, shops, and restaurants, stop by The Hyppo for fresh, all-natural, handmade popsicles.

Castillo de San Marcos, St Augustine
Castillo de San Marcos, St Augustine

January is also the time of the Nights of Lights, with string lights adorning 20 blocks of Spanish colonial architecture in the charming historic district.

As for stay, St. Francis Inn Bed & Breakfast is a great pick; their gourmet breakfast buffet tastes as tantalizing as it smells.

20. Naples

Average temperature: 59 – 72 degrees Fahrenheit

naples pier florida at sunset
naples pier

And continuing with the list of warm places to visit in Florida is Naples, an iconic destination with lots to do.

Go sightseeing at The Baker Museum, Naples Zoo (housing the fossa seen in the movie ‘Madagascar’), and Naples Botanical Garden. Or take a day trip to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, which will bring you near 600-year-old trees, alligators, otters, and some beautiful, endangered birds.

naples sunset in florida
naples sunset

Walk the 1,000 feet expansive boardwalk of Naples Pier to soak in some stunning panoramic views. Or explore the mangrove-filled estuaries of Marco Island and the Witch Watchtower.

A decadent meal at The Turtle Club Restaurant and a stay at the Ritz Carlton make for a memorable visit. 

21. Everglades National Park

Average temperature: 55 – 81 degrees Fahrenheit

The third-largest national park in the continental United States, spanning 1.5 million acres of Southern Florida, Everglades National Park is also the warmest.

flamingoes in Everglades National Park Florida
flamingoes in Everglades National Park Florida

There are two seasons in Everglades – wet and dry. And the dry season that runs from December to about mid-May is a great time to visit, with mild temperatures, low humidity, and the biting bugs being blessedly absent.

A visit in January to the dense tropical forests filled with mangroves, mahogany, and Gumbo Limbo trees will give you a chance to view many migratory birds and some stunning wildlife.

Everglades airboat

The River of Grass is the only place where crocodiles and alligators co-exist.

You can go sightseeing through the park by bike, car, boat, or hiking, and paddle a canoe or kayak to spend the night on a chickee, a wooden platform built above the swamp.

The park has no accommodations apart from car campgrounds or back-country camping spots (that need permits).

In Hawaii

22. Maui

Average temperature: 63 – 82 degrees Fahrenheit

Kapalua Bay maui
Kapalua Bay maui

If there’s one place that can compete with Florida as the perfect January getaway, it’s Hawaii. And Maui in Hawaii is one such popular perennial destination.

With balmy temperatures, the smallest crowds, and the lowest accommodation prices, it’s a delight to visit this tropical island paradise in January. 

From epic volcano hikes, breathtaking lush parks, and stunning beaches, it’s also the time for lovely cultural events and nature walks.

maui sunset 1

The Secret Garden of Maliko is a serene place for some quiet time and rejuvenation. And a stroll along the Wai’anapanapa State Park’s black sand beach makes for a unique experience.

Snorkeling in the Molokini Crater will give you a glimpse of the different fish and sea turtles.

The Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa on Black Rock Beach is a great place to stay.

23. Oahu

Average temperature: 66 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit

Oahu is an excellent Hawaiian getaway in January with its picturesque beaches and bounty of events.

oahu

Try your hand at some crater climbing with the spectacular Diamond Head Crater, take a whale-watching boat tour to spot the majestic Humpback whales, and hike along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail.

oahu
Oahu

Surfing lessons, a Turtle Canyons snorkeling excursion, and shopping at the Ko’Olina Artfest are other activities to look forward to in January.

The Four Seasons Resort Ko Olina is the perfect place to stay in Oahu.

24. Big Island

Average temperature: 64 – 82 degrees Fahrenheit

big island hawaii volcano

The Big Island is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii and the USA during January. You’ll get mostly sunny weather with intermittent rain, so don’t forget to bring a light rain jacket.

Besides being the best time to see humpback whales, it’s also a great time to see the active volcanoes and smoking craters in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

big island hawaii

To gaze at some pristine natural wonders, head to the volcanic black sand beach,  Punalu’u, where you’ll see the endangered hawksbill and green turtles. Also, add Rainbow Falls and the Chain of Craters Road (for miles of volcanic grounds) to your itinerary.

And finally, check out Papakolea Beach, at the southernmost tip, which has dazzling green sand, a sight to behold. Stay at the Royal Kona Resort; it features a private beach area and faces the Pacific Ocean.

25. Kauai

Average temperature: 65 – 72 degrees Fahrenheit

Another picture-perfect January destination in Hawaii, Kauai, is full of pristine bays and lush landscapes great for some sun, sand, and sea.

Kauai, Hawaii volcano

Not to forget coffee; with coffee plantations spread across the island, you can sip coffee made from the freshest roasts. For specialty coffee paired with good vibes, drop by Java Kai.

A cruise on Capt. Andy’s Cruise along the Na Pali Coast, lined with dramatic volcanos, or sunset and dinner on a yacht are things you could enjoy here.

Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai

Since the rains may come and go as they please, come prepared with a flexible schedule. The Koloa Landing Resort is a magnificent stay in Kauai.

In South Carolina

26. Charleston

Average temperature: 44 – 57 degrees Fahrenheit

charleston south carolina waterfront

A pleasantly warm destination in South Carolina, Charleston makes a great escape from the freezing weather in January.

Visit any of the museums and landmark homes that stay open throughout the year, and walk through Charleston’s Historic District to appreciate the lovely scenery around you. Witness the world’s largest oyster festival – Lowcountry Oyster Festival, and enjoy the Charleston Restaurant Week in January.

Charleston South Carolina

Explore the charm and history of Charleston with a walking tour, ghost tour, culinary tour, and tours of the Old Jail.

Stay at the Francis Marion Hotel for unsurpassed views of the historic harbor.

27. Hilton Head

Average temperature: 46 – 58 degrees Fahrenheit

Hilton Head in January is quiet and pleasant, with no crowds and low prices on accommodation and dining – the perfect combination for a January getaway.

hilton head island south carolina
hilton head island south carolina

A visit to Harbour Town is a mandate when you’re in Hilton Head, for its array of shops, waterfront restaurants, and a pier. Do climb up the top of the lighthouse at Harbour Town for the best views of Hilton Head and the neighboring Daufuskie Island.

With more than 15 golf courses here, you have quite good options for a game of golf. And there’s Shelter Cove for shopping, ice creams, and great local restaurants. January’s events include the Hilton Head’s Farmer’s Market on Tuesdays and Restaurant Week South Carolina.

hilton-head-island-south-carolina

The Sonesta Resort is a marvelous stay nestled along the coast with stunning views and verdant tropical gardens.

In Texas

28. Austin

Average temperature: 42 – 60 degrees Fahrenheit

The Governor's Mansion in Austin landmarks in texas
The Governor’s Mansion in Austin PC Flickr

Austin is a one-stop destination for music lovers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts in January, with its pleasant weather and an epic lineup of events.

Music lovers will love the week-long music festival, Red River Free Week, with local musicians performing hundreds of shows across the city. Kayak out onto Lady Bird Lake or climb the 102 steps to the viewpoint of Mount Bonnell at Covert Park for some great views.

austin texas
austin texas

For unexpectedly chilly days, head to the Museum of Ice Cream while waiting for the sun to come out. A visit to Austin without relishing some BBQ is just unacceptable; head to Salt Lick or Agape BBQ for a meal with a country ambiance.

If you’re in for something weird, check out the Museum of the Weird for all things quirky and wacky.

The East Austin Hotel is an excellent stay in Austin.

29. South Padre Island

Average temperature: 54 – 68 degrees Fahrenheit

A popular January destination for the Winter Texans (people escaping the winters of northern US states and Canada), South Padre Island in Texas is a great place for fishing and bird watching.

South Padre Island
South Padre Island

This famous Spring Break destination barely sees any crowds in the first few weeks of the year. Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico are the popular fishing spots here, and the SPI Kite Fest (on the last weekend of January) is a popular event.

South Padre Island
South Padre Island

Isla Grand Beach Resort is a great accommodation pick, with amenities including hot tubs, two swimming pools, a nightclub, tennis courts, and sand volleyball courts.

30. Houston

Average temperature: 46 – 61 degrees Fahrenheit

houston texas
houston texas

The most populous Texas city is a dynamic winter getaway with a mouth-watering food scene, outer-space innovation, and exciting annual events.

Sample award-winning chili at Yaga’s Chili Quest & Beer Fest, visit the NASA Space Center to learn about space science and exploration or wander through Houston Botanic Garden’s magical Lightscape on your visit.

houston
houston

Houston and BBQ go hand-in-hand; don’t forget to try some smoked ribs at Gatlin’s BBQ or Chicano-style BBQ at JQ’s Tex Mex BBQ.

Stay at The Lancaster, a historic luxury boutique hotel in the vibrant downtown Theater District.

31. San Antonio

Average temperature: 44 – 62 degrees Fahrenheit

A warm January destination in Texas, your first stop in San Antonio has got to be the Alamo (the famous landmark here).

san antonio river walk

The paved paths of the San Antonio Riverwalk are lined with great restaurants and unique shops. 

The charming bridges here take you to museums (like the Witte museum) or eateries (like Boudro’s). You can also grab a ticket for a river cruise and learn about the area’s history.

san-antonio-texas
san-antonio-texas

And there’s Restaurant Week to look forward to if you visit around the third week of the month; each establishment creates a fixed menu of its best items.

Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk is the perfect stay for rooms overlooking the river and close to the top attractions.

32. Big Bend National Park

Average temperature: 31 – 69 degrees Fahrenheit

big bend national park texas

Bring some sunscreen, and you’re all set for the outdoor adventures in Big Bend National Park.

Hike the Lost Mine Trail, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Boquillas Canyon Trail for magnificent views. The canyon trails are fantastic for viewing the famous Rio Grande.

big bend national park

The Balanced Rock viewpoint is a better option for a hike among rocky landscapes. However, if you wish to relax instead, a soak in the warm hot springs next to the Rio Grande will seem divine.

Stay at the only accommodation in the national park – Chisos Mountain Lodge; it has a restaurant and an RV park.

In U.S. Virgin Islands

33. St. John

Average temperature: 69 – 82 degrees Fahrenheit

A paradise on Earth, St. John, is where you can find a tropical national park and pristine Caribbean island landscapes.

st johns us virgin islands
st johns us virgin islands

As surprising as it may seem, Virgin Islands National Park covers two-thirds of the island. You can put your hiking boots on and explore flora and fauna along the Reef Bay Trail (among 20 hiking trails) or go snorkeling off Honeymoon Beach.

st johns virgin islands
st johns virgin islands

The coral reefs and colorful fish in the turquoise waters are a treat to the eyes. Don’t forget to stop by the Cruz Bay Overlook or Beach Bar for an epic view of the sunset.

A stay at The Westin will give you a sunset view straight out.

34. St. Thomas

Average temperature: 66 – 78 degrees Fahrenheit

Stunning views, vibrant coral reefs, crystal clear water, and warm temperatures with sunshine will greet you in St. Thomas in January.

st thomas us virgin islands
st thomas us virgin islands

For some island adventure, go on the zipline ride at Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline, gliding through the jungle and viewing the lush scenery. Also, head to Sapphire Beach or Coki Point Beach for world-class snorkeling.

st thomas virgin islands
st thomas virgin islands

If you’d like to sample some craft beers, visit the Frenchtown Brewing Company, one of only three on the island.

The Marriott Frenchman’s Cove is a popular hotel on the island for your stay here.

In Other States of the USA

35. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temperature: 35 – 57 degrees Fahrenheit

things to do in vegas besides gambling
The Wynn

You can look forward to an affordable trip to Las Vegas in January. The casinos, entertainment, and events make this a popular destination all year round, yet, the crowds thin out after New Year’s celebrations.

Plan a hike at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Valley of Fire, Death Valley National Park, or Grand Canyon National Park. The Bellagio fountain show and the Volcano eruption at the Mirage are some after-dark attractions.

las_vegas_valley-of-fire-landscape
The beautiful mixed landscape of the Valley of Fire

The Sin City is best viewed when lit up, and the Big Bus Las Vegas Open Top Night Tour is a great way to see that. If time permits, catch a classic variety show like Cirque du Soleil or WOW Vegas Spectacular.

Stay at the Bellagio Resort or Hilton Grand Vacations Suites on your trip to Vegas.

36. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temperature: 45 – 62 degrees Fahrenheit

New Orleans Church

Before the Mardi Gras madness begins, January is the perfect time to visit New Orleans. A highlight of the month is the annual celebration – Twelfth Night or Epiphany, marking the end of the holiday season and the start of the Carnival season.

Yet another parade – Krewe de Joan d’Arc, in the French Quarter, gives you a chance to hit the streets with your mask.

historical places in new orelans

You can even feast on the colorful King Cake at Haydel’s or La Boulangerie. Don’t forget to visit the city’s famous landmarks – Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.

The Omni Royal Gardens and The Westin New Orleans are great places to stay.

37. Savannah, Georgia

Average temperature: 43 – 58 degrees Fahrenheit

The charming city of Savannah, with its natural beauty and history, is a great place to visit in January.

Strolling through the city’s hanging Spanish moss (in Forsyth Park) and savoring the Southern cuisine are what you’ll enjoy here. 

For some outdoor recreation, Tybee Island makes a great spot, while nature lovers will enjoy birdwatching and a nature walk in Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.

History buffs will love touring the 19th-century estates converted into museums. The highlight of the month is the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade.

The Marshall House and DoubleTree Historic Savannah are great accommodation picks.

Once you’ve spent the first few days of the new year with your loved ones and long to get away from the gloomy weather, take your pick from the 37 warm places to visit in January in the USA. It’s a great time to travel to these places for fun, adventure, relaxation, and mostly reduced fares.

Do read into 29 Most Beautiful

I covered all of the costs involved in creating this post on warm places to visit in January in the USA. Just so you know, this post does contain some affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

Thanks for Sharing!