7 Destinations for Winter Fun

While sun and sand are a nice change of pace from freezing temps and snowy days, there’s something to be said for embracing the best of what winter has to offer. Snowy scenery, cozy nights and a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation, why not take advantage of the frostier side of travel?

Nagano, Japan

Located near the foothills of the northern Japanese Alps, the region of Nagano is a unique destination that truly shines once the snow begins to fall. In fact, this destination is so picturesque that it played host to the Winter Olympics in 1998. Visit former Olympic facilities for a chance to relive the magic or partake in some seasonal sporting events of your own with a trip to one of the many local mountain ranges where you can ski, sled and snowboard to your heart’s delight.

For something off-the-beaten-path, make your way to Yamanouchi’s Jigokudani Monkey Park, a collection of natural hot springs frequented by wild monkeys.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Embrace the wonder of the holiday season with a trip to see the big man himself, in Rovaniemi, Finland. Dubbed the official home of Santa Claus, there is no shortage of festive activities to enjoy at this chilly oasis. Where else can you board the Santa Claus Express, catch a ride on a reindeer sleigh, visit a town made of ice and check out the Santa Claus Villiage all in one day?

Of course, Rovaniemi has plenty of non-Santa wintery fun to be had, too. You can enjoy the great outdoors on a  cross-country ski trail, spend an afternoon snowshoeing or partake in sauna culture, a staple in Finnish life. You might even catch a light show as the northern lights are visible in Finnish Lapland year-round.  

Reykjavik, Iceland

Natural wonders, historic sites, a hip bar scene and cutting-edge restaurants, Iceland’s capital city Reykjavik is worthy of any traveler’s bucket list. Spend some time exploring iconic sites in the city center such as Hallgrímskirkja, a parish church that is undoubtedly the most dramatic building in the island nation’s skyline and Harpa, a modern landmark that doubles as a concert hall and conference center. Be sure to keep an eye out for the colorful murals that adorn building exteriors in the Old Harbour and Grandi neighborhoods along the way.

Then, embark on a tour of the region’s most inspiring natural sights such as the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon geothermal hot spring, Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach and more. Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling, you can up the ante a little with a guided whale watching and puffin tour or an Iceland Glacier tour. 

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

The natural beauty of Bryce Canyon’s red rock hoodoos, fins and slot canyons is only intensified by a fresh layer of powder. Each winter(mid-November through late February), snow bunnies flock to this stunning national park for winter fun minus the summer crowds. Brave the cold and be rewarded with cross country ski trails, winter hikes, snowshoeing, an annual Christmas Bird Count and scenic drives paired with marvelous viewpoints and photo ops.

As for temperature, the December average high is 36 degrees Fahrenheit while the average December low is 15 degrees Fahrenheit so be sure to dress accordingly.

Bergen, Norway

Winter hits different in Bergen, Norway where locals endure extended periods of darkness from December through February. With sunsets as early as 3 p.m. and sunrises as late as 10 a.m., a visit to this arctic getaway is sure to be unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Luckily, with incredible mountain views, a handful of niche museums and a bustling harbor, Norwegians have found plenty of ways to stay entertained throughout the chilliest portion of the year.  

For an experience that’s uniquely Bergen, grab a cup of hot chocolate from one of the area’s many cafes and take a stroll through colorful Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. Once a series of Hanseatic heritage commercial buildings, the Bryggen of today plays host to museums, shops, restaurants and pubs. 

Churchill, Manitoba

Take a walk on the wild side with a vacation to Churchill, Manitoba, AKA the land of the polar bears. Situated along the polar bear highway, travelers flock to Churchill for a chance to encounter the king of the Arctic via the region’s bounty of wildlife experiences. Whether you opt to encounter the beast on foot or via a Tundra Buggy, there’s no better place to catch a glimpse of these massive carnivores.

If the thought of coming face-to-face with the world’s largest predator has you shaking in your boots try your hand at another animal encounter like bird watching, dog sledding or a beluga whale boat tour instead.

New York, USA

From the holiday season and beyond, winter fun in NYC knows no bounds. The final quarter of the year brings plenty of magic to the Big Apple with festive lights, iconic holiday shows, dazzling window displays, a raging New Year’s Eve party and more.

In the months after the ball drops, there’s still plenty to see and do. The city hosts several unique events including New York Fashion Week, Restaurant Week, Winter Jazzfest and Chinese New Year. Of course, wandering the city is fun in itself, too. Take a stroll through Times Square or Central Park after a dusting of fresh snow and revel in exploring one of the best cities on earth.