Travel in the wintertime can put a damper on the whole vacation vibe. From unexpected snowstorms that aren’t designed to be faced in a rental car to shorter daylight hours allowing for less time to explore, it often can feel easier to just post-pone your trips until the world thaws. But traveling around the US in the winter doesn't have to be a bust, it's all about finding the right destinations packed with activities, despite the weather. Whether you're looking to chase warmer temps or tap into a winter wonderland, these are some of the best winter travel destinations around the US.

Ultimate winter travel destinations in the US:

Whitefish, MT
Hawaiian Islands
Alaska
New York City
Death Valley National Park

THE WONDERLAND OF WHITEFISH, MONTANA

Sure, Glacier National Park steals the spotlight in the summer months when it comes to national park escapes, but traveling to the Whitefish area in wintertime shows you an entirely different side of Flathead Valley. From snowmobiling with aerials of Glacier NP to cozying up with a coffee (and mimosa) for a beautiful brunch overlooking Whitefish Lake, a winter getaway around Montana is the quintessential cold-weather destination.

Read the full itinerary for wintertime in Whitefish

THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE IN NEW YORK CITY

Ain't nothing more magical than traveling to New York City during the holidays.. Like the city-life or not, New York absolutely transforms in December into a warm and jolly winter wonderland. Suit up with a big ole' coat, some comfortable boots, and then sneak the stylish outfits underneath. By day, you can ice skate, prance around the museums to warm up, and shop around the adorable street festivals. At night, get lost in the twinkly lights, cross off seeing the Radio City Rockettes from your bucket list, or sip on some cocktails in a posh lounge.

OPT FOR HEAT IN HAWAII

For those down to skip the slopes in exchange for sunshine, Hawaii is the single greatest sunny winter travel destination out there. With a climate that is in the consistent 80-range during the days, despite the season change, Hawaii is a no-brainer for investing in some good old quality time with Vitamin D. Will you be the palest one on the beach compared to the bronzed surfer locals? Sure, but exploring any of the Hawaii islands is a welcomed winter getaway from the gloom and doom of the mainland. From snorkeling with sea turtles to horseback rides along the ocean, the outdoorsy options are endless when it comes to traveling to Hawaii.

WINTER ADVENTURE IN ALASKA

Okay, bear with me. Alaska in the wintertime is a land of darkness, right? There's certainly no more unique of a time to celebrate the stunning solitude of a state that thrives not just despite its sub-zero temps and lack of light but because of it. Alaska in the wintertime is chock full of incredible activities ranging from dog sled festivals to backcountry skiing to seeing the northern lights without having to leave the country.

SKIP THE SCORCHING TEMPS AT DEATH VALLEY

Death Valley is home to the highest temperatures in North America, so what better time to travel to this California park than the wintertime? With a warmer desert climate during the day time, hiking and exploring is a no brainer, plus you can do so without needing to keep a gallon of water on your person at all times. The park is massive, and the daylight hours are limited in the winter months so the best way to see Death Valley is by camper van or staying in the park to get the most out of your adventure.