Although winter is a good time for "cocooning," the months between November and March represent one of the heaviest roadtrip times of the year. Some travelers are on the road to warmer climes while others are headed for winter playgrounds. Snowbirds (those with summer homes in northern states like Idaho, Michigan or Maine who head to the southern states when the temperatures plunge below freezing) represent a crucial economic boost to states like California, Arizona and Florida. On the east coast, the two primary "snowbird" corridors are I-75 and I-95.

The migration of winter vacationers to the world-class ski resorts in the Colorado Rockies and California's Sierra Nevadas also keeps highways busy. On this page, we have included destination ideas for snowbirds, winter vacationers, and those who just like cold-weather adventures. Some are links to articles on this site, and the balance go to other sites with information about the best winter destinations in North America.

Winter Road Trip Tips: Bob Schaller & Dennis Weaver share suggestions and wisdom for great & safe cold weather traveling (11/13/05)

Top Twenty Snow Sports Location in the U.S. & Canada: Compiled by the editors of Snow Sports Guidebooks, this site features detailed information about resorts throughout North America. (2014)

Mustard Festival: Spring comes early in California! When the mustard blooms on the foothills in February and March, Napa Valley celebrates with a festival featuring art exhibits, special wine tastings, and tours.

50 Inches of Fresh Snow! Winter events at Mammoth Mountain, California, including the U.S. Snowboard Grand Prix in January.

Interactive Florida Planner: This site gives a pretty good overview of the various attractions found within Florida's counties. Be sure to click on the Interactive Map—cute sound effects!

Death Valley National Park, California: Winter is prime time for exploring the back roads of this magnificent park. Carrying plenty of water and other preparations are still important, but daytime temperatures are far more comfortable than they are in summer. One of our favorite drives is Titus Canyon.

Rose Parade - Pasadena, California: Flowers, floats, and marching bands are always a good excuse for a roadtrip, and "it never rains on New Year's Day in Pasadena!"

Phoenix, Arizona - I brake for Barbeque: Road guru Bob Schaller guides road trippers to the tastiest selections in the greater Phoenix area.

Hot Springs of the Oregon Outback: Two great places to get yourself into hot water on US Highway 395 in eastern Oregon.

St. Paul, Minnesota - Winter Carnival Monumental Ice Carvings: The annual event has featured the largest ice palaces anywhere. (Updated March 17, 2022)

Kitchener, Ontario - Christkindl Market Festival: One of the largest Christmas markets in North America features German music, arts & crafts, food, and art. Kitchener, known as Berlin until 1916, welcomes thousands of visitors in early December. (Updated April 8, 2019)

Bentleyville, Minnesota - Holiday Lights:
In the woods just north of Cloquet, Minnesota, a team of volunteers has created a 4-acre winter wonderland with millions of lights, hundreds of huge snowflakes and 230 lighted reindeer scattered around the trees. The event is free, and hot cider, coffee and cookies are served to all visitors. (11/30/07)