Most Popular US Cities for Winter Vacations

By Soo Kim

Life and Trends Reporter

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Cities in New York, Nevada, and Florida are among the most popular domestic winter getaway spots for travelers in the United States, according to a new report by TripAdvisor.

The latest edition of the annual TripAdvisor Winter Travel Index found that New York City is the most sought-after U.S. destination this winter, followed by Las Vegas in Nevada, as well as Orlando, and Key West in Florida. The findings highlight a nationwide split between travelers drawn to festive city experiences and those chasing warm-weather escapes.

Based on a survey of more than 6,123 consumers, conducted between September 22 and 29, 2025, across six countries—including the U.S, U.K, Australia, Japan, India, and France—the report shows robust travel demand. Sixty percent of travelers are planning trips this winter, and 45 percent say they are traveling more than last year.

TripAdvisor also analyzed platform traffic data from travelers in the U.S., U.K, and Japan between August 1 and October 31, 2025, for travel between December 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026.

The report reveals a clear “cold-versus-warm divide” among U.S. travelers. While some prefer the winter charm and cultural experiences of New York City, others are drawn to warmer destinations such as Las Vegas, Orlando, and Key West.

Internationally, sunny destinations continue to dominate. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico are the top three overseas choices for American travelers, followed by Bavaro in the Dominican Republic.

The TripAdvisor report underscores travelers’ growing desire for meaningful, experience-rich journeys. “Seasonal factors drive 86 percent of winter travel decisions, with distinct regional preferences,” the report noted. Family connections and cultural traditions play a key role in shaping travel plans, as travelers increasingly focus on “meaningful connections and memory-making with loved ones.”

When it comes to activities, 93 percent of travelers said experiences are an important part of their travel budget, while 84 percent prioritize planning activities in advance. Cultural sightseeing emerged as the top travel preference (38 percent), followed by nature sightseeing (37 percent), shopping (31 percent), and road trips (28 percent).

Top Domestic Destinations for U.S. Travelers

New York City, New York
Las Vegas, Nevada
Orlando, Florida
Key West, Florida

Top International Destinations for U.S. Travelers

Cancun, Mexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Bavaro, Dominican Republic

Source: Based on a TripAdvisor survey of over 6,123 consumers conducted between September 22 and 29, 2025, across six countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, India and France, and an analysis of TripAdvisor traffic data from travelers in the U.S., U.K., and Japan between August 1 and October 31, 2025, for travel between December 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026.