While some of you are busy dreaming of beachy getaways and sun-kissed tans, I’m over here cozying up in my favorite sweater, sipping hot cocoa, and planning my next snowy city escapade. Because guess what? Exploring new cities in winter is downright magical. Don’t believe me? Check out Salt Lake City on a site like slctop10.com. Here are all the frosty-fantastic reasons why you should take the time to explore a new city in the winter months.
- Snow-Covered Skylines = Magic
There’s something spellbinding about seeing a familiar city cloaked in white. Iconic landmarks, when adorned with a dusting of snow, transform into mesmerizing winter wonderlands that add a touch of magic to any trip. Think of New York’s Central Park, Chicago’s Millennium Park, or Boston’s historic streets. They’re pretty any time of the year, but with a snowy overlay? Chef’s kiss!
- Fewer Tourists = More Space For You
Traveling in winter often means fewer tourists crowding the streets because most people want to go on vacation when the weather is warm, or at least not at too much risk of being wet. With fewer folks jostling for the best views, the city feels like it’s all yours. That museum exhibit you wanted to explore? Now’s the time. That famous café? Grab a window seat! You’ll feel like a local in no time at all, so even if you have to pack those mens gloves and some thermal underwear, it will be totally worthwhile when you can do what you want when you want without those huge crowds!
- Winter Festivals and Events
Winter cities aren’t asleep as so many people assume they must be. After all, the people who live there year-round need lots of fun things to do, so the average city will surely be buzzing at any time of the year. Think Christmas markets, ice sculpture festivals, and winter parades and you won’t be far wrong. Cities like Denver or Minneapolis are notorious for their lively winter shenanigans, for example, so you will never be left with nothing to do there. In fact, these events are unique to the chilly season and are perfect for making frosty memories.
- Comfort Food Everywhere
There’s a reason why winter and comfort food go together like, well, hot cocoa and marshmallows. From creamy soups to hearty stews, cities in winter become havens of gastronomic delight for anyone who travels to them off-season. And really, is there anything better than warming up with a piping hot bowl of something delicious?
- Ice Skating in Iconic Locations
One of the great thighs about winter city travel is that so many large towns and cities will hire an ice rink for the season, which they place right in the heart of the action. That means that you can, quite often, have a blast exploring the city center from the vantage of an ice rink, before hopping over to the local cafe for a cup of coffee and a spot of people watching, Is there really anything better to do in the winter?
- Winter Sports Just Outside City Limits
Winter opens the doors (or, more fittingly, the slopes) to a plethora of sporting opportunities, so if you are the active type, and you want something fun to do in the winter when surfing on the beach might not be possible a city break if your best friend. Cities like Salt Lake City or Lake Tahoe are stone’s throw away from prime skiing locations, for example. But even if you’re not a skiing pro, there’s always tubing or sledding. And let’s not forget the apres-ski hot toddies!
- Unique Photo Ops
Snow-capped buildings, frosted trees, and icicle-laden monuments all offer stunning backdrops for those holiday snaps, so this is just another reason to consider a winter city break.
- Travel Deals Galore
For the savvy traveler, winter can be a budget-friendly time to explore. With off-season rates for flights and accommodations, your dollar stretches further. So, go ahead and upgrade that room!
- Winter Fashion is the Best Fashion
There’s something chic about winter fashion. Layered outfits, stylish boots, trendy scarves, and let’s not forget those thermal gloves that keep your fingers from turning into icicles. So, it’s fair to say that exploring cities in the magic of winter is a great opportunity for you to channel your inner style icon while also being as comfortable as you can possibly get outside of your own home.
As you can see, winter city breaks have a lot to offer from stunning snowy backdrops to comfy winter clothes, so what are you waiting for?
