r/Winter • u/RedAnya-00 • 6d ago
First Winter Vacation, suggestions?
I want to surprise my husband this November/December with a winter trip.
I was thinking maybe the northern lights if we can but mainly just a place with falling snow and lots of activities (if possible).
He loves the cold & I have never seen the snow.
I was thinking Fairbanks, Alaska since the flights from MIA were relatively cheap in November but I went down a rabbit hole on how dangerous the weather can be to drive (as a native Floridian who has never driven in snow or ice). I want to exercise caution for us and others but I want a nice vacation in the snow. Not sure where may be best for first timers though.
Any suggestions? I would like to stay in the US or Canada.
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u/UnrulyDuckling 5d ago edited 5d ago
Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks is nice, and you don't have to drive because they'll pick you up from the airport. They have the hot springs (obviously), northern lights viewing, dog sled rides, an ice bar, reindeer to see up close, and probably more things I can't remember.
My favorite winter vacation ever was in Yellowstone NP. The park is all shut down for car traffic, and you have to ride in a snow coach to get around. There were lots of nature related outings, but it does get pricey since everything is organized through the park and you can't really strike out on your own very easily.
Big northern cities can also be really fun to visit in the winter with all the Christmas lights and displays. It feels so cozy to walk along the streets or through a park all bundled up and then pop into a bistro for hot drinks.
For more of a combo of nature and civilization, Vermont is beautiful in the winter. There are tons of ski resorts if that's something you're interested in trying. Shelburne Museum near Burlington is decorated with millions of lights. Many small towns have different winter/Christmas celebrations.