January is the perfect time to explore some incredible places across the US, whether you’re up for snowy adventures, sunny getaways, or cool winter hikes.

With the December holiday rush over, crowds thin out, making it easier to enjoy peaceful trails, scenic views, and cozy destinations.

Not sure where to go? Here are the 12 best places to visit in January in the USA to get you inspired!

 

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1. Sedona, Arizona

sedona arizona is one of the best us destinations in january

Sedona, Arizona, located in the southwestern U.S. about two hours north of Phoenix, is ideal to visit in January for its cool, comfortable weather and quieter trails.

The famous red rock formations look especially vivid under clear winter skies, and the lighter crowds make it easier to explore popular spots.

Whether hiking or sightseeing, January’s calm atmosphere makes for a peaceful desert escape.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from 1-15°C (34-59°F), with sunny days and chilly evenings.

🎡 Best experience: Hike Cathedral Rock Trail for jaw-dropping views and a chance to experience Sedona’s iconic red rocks up close. If you don’t have time, try the amazing Open-Air Van Tour. 

💡 Tip: Dress in layers, as mornings can start chilly but warm up quickly as the day progresses.

 

2. Fairbanks, Alaska

fairbanks alaska northern lights in january

Fairbanks, located inland about 360 kilometers north of Anchorage in Alaska, is ideal to visit in January for its incredible Northern Lights displays.

The long, dark winter nights create the perfect conditions for aurora viewing, and Fairbanks offers many guided tours and viewing lodges.

January also provides unique experiences like dog sledding and soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. It’s a true winter wonderland adventure.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures in Fairbanks range from -23°C to -8°C (-10°F to 17°F), with long, dark nights perfect for stargazing and aurora hunting.

🎡 Best experience: Watch the Northern Lights from Chena Hot Springs for a magical experience of warm water under the dancing auroras.

💡 Tip: Dress in layers with insulated outerwear and boots, as temperatures can drop significantly during aurora viewing.

 

3. Death Valley National Park, Nevada

death valley is one of the best places to visit in january in the usa

Death Valley National Park, located on the California-Nevada border and about two hours from Las Vegas, is perfect for a January visit when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Unlike the scorching summer months, January’s cooler temperatures make it comfortable to explore iconic spots like Badwater Basin and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the park’s stunning, otherworldly landscapes in peaceful solitude.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from 4-20°C (39-68°F), with sunny days and cool nights.

🎡 Best experience: Visit Zabriskie Point at sunrise to see the badlands glow in golden light. If you’re staying in Las Vegas, prefer doing the day trip. 

💡 Tip: Bring layers for chilly mornings and evenings, and pack plenty of water even though it’s cooler—desert air is very dry. 

 

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

salt lake city in january

Salt Lake City, located in northern Utah, is the ultimate destination for winter sports lovers in January, with easy access to world-class ski resorts just 30 minutes from downtown.

The nearby Wasatch Mountains offer perfect powder, while the city itself has plenty of cozy spots to warm up after a day outdoors.

January also means fewer crowds and a chance to enjoy the city’s beautiful snowy landscape.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from -5 to 3°C (23-37°F), with snowy days in the mountains and crisp air in the city.

🎡 Best experience: Ski or try Huskey dog sledding at Alta or Snowbird, two of the top ski resorts in the region.

💡 Tip: Arrive at the slopes early for the best snow conditions and to beat any late-morning rush.

 

5. Key West, Florida

key west is one of the best places to go in the us in january

Key West, located at the southernmost point of the U.S. and about 3.5 hours by car from Miami, is a great January escape with warm weather and sunny days.

While much of the country is freezing, Key West offers ideal conditions for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach.

The mix of calm post-holiday vibes and lively winter events makes January a balanced time to visit.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures in Key West range from 19-25°C (66-77°F), with sunny days and cool breezes in the evenings.

🎡 Best experience: Take a sunset sail to enjoy stunning views of the ocean and sky while soaking in the warm evening air.

💡 Tip: Book water-based activities early, as many tourists head to Key West in January to enjoy the warmth.

 

6. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

white sands national park in january

White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico about 1.5 hours from Las Cruces, is a peaceful escape in January, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures perfect for exploring the dunes.

Unlike the scorching summer months, January’s mild weather makes hiking and sand sledding much more comfortable.

The stark white gypsum dunes look especially stunning under the clear winter sky, creating a unique and serene desert experience.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from -2 to 14°C (28-57°F), with sunny days and chilly nights.

🎡 Best experience: Go sand sledding down the shimmering dunes for an unforgettable adventure.

💡 Tip: Pack sunglasses and sunscreen, despite cooler weather, the bright white sand reflects the sun intensely.

 

7. Tucson, Arizona

tucson arizona in january

Tucson, Arizona, located in the southwestern U.S., about 1.5 hours southeast of Phoenix, is perfect to visit in January for its mild weather and vibrant desert landscapes.

It’s an ideal time to hike, bike, or explore Saguaro National Park without the intense summer heat.

January’s clear skies also make Tucson one of the best spots in the country for stargazing, thanks to its dark-sky protections.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from 6-20°C (43-68°F), with sunny days and crisp evenings.

🎡 Best experience: Hike the Valley View Overlook Trail in Saguaro National Park for stunning views of the desert and iconic cacti.

💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning to catch the soft light on the cacti and avoid potential midday crowds.

 

8. Palm Desert, California

palm desert in january

Palm Desert, located in the Coachella Valley about 20 minutes from Palm Springs, is a great spot to visit in January thanks to its mild, sunny weather.

The cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking trails like the Bump and Grind or exploring the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

January’s clear skies and comfortable days let you enjoy the desert’s unique beauty without the oppressive summer heat.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from 8-23°C (46-73°F), with warm days and cool evenings.

🎡 Best experience: Hike the Palm Desert Cross Trail for panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

💡 Tip: Start your hikes early to take advantage of the coolest part of the day and catch the sunrise over the desert.

 

9. Zion National Park, Utah

zion national park under the snow in january

Zion National Park, located in southern Utah, about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, is a peaceful retreat in January with quiet trails and stunning winter scenery.

The cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, and the light dusting of snow on the red rock cliffs adds a magical touch.

January is also a low-crowd month, so you can explore iconic hikes like Angels Landing or The Narrows without the usual crowds.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from -3 to 13°C (27-55°F), with crisp days and chilly nights.

🎡 Best experience: Hike The Narrows, where you can wade through the Virgin River surrounded by towering canyon walls.

💡 Tip: Rent neoprene socks and waterproof boots for hiking The Narrows in January, as the river can be icy cold.

 

10. Bend, Oregon

bend oregon road in january

Bend, located in central Oregon about 3 hours southeast of Portland, is a January paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, it offers excellent skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on scenic trails.

January’s fresh snow and crisp air make it the perfect time to enjoy Bend’s winter wonderland while cozying up afterward with craft beer from one of its many breweries.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from -5 to 6°C (23-43°F), with snowy days and plenty of sunshine.

🎡 Best experience: Hit the slopes at Mount Bachelor for fantastic skiing and snowboarding with stunning mountain views. 

💡 Tip: Rent gear in town instead of at the mountain to save time and money during peak hours.

 

11. San Diego, California

san diego is one of the best destinations in the us in january

San Diego, located on the southern coast of California near the Mexican border, is a great January getaway thanks to its mild weather and fewer crowds.

The beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions like Balboa Park are all enjoyable without the summer rush.

January is also prime whale-watching season, as gray whales migrate along the coast, making it a fantastic time to experience marine life.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures in San Diego range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), with sunny days and cool evenings.

🎡 Best experience: Go on a whale-watching tour to see migrating gray whales off the coast.

💡 Tip: Make sure to pack layers. While daytime temperatures are mild, evenings can get chilly, especially near the coast. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable no matter the activity

 

12. Payette National Forest, Idaho

payette national park is a top place to go in the us in january

Payette National Forest, located in western Idaho about 2 hours north of Boise, is a winter wonderland in January with snow-covered landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures.

The forest’s trails are ideal for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, while nearby McCall offers access to hot springs for a relaxing end to the day.

Compared to the busy summer and fall months, January provides a peaceful and magical experience in the forest.

🌤️ Weather: January temperatures range from -10 to 2°C (14-36°F), with plenty of snow and crisp, clear skies. 

🎡 Best experience: Snowshoe along the Ponderosa State Park trails near Payette Lake for breathtaking views of the snowy landscape.

💡 Tip: Rent gear in McCall before heading into the forest, as rental options near the trails are limited.