As we transition from fall to winter in the USA, the weather gets colder and sometimes the driving conditions become less than ideal. But that doesn't mean you should limit your road trips to spring and summer when the days are warmer. There are plenty of beautiful road trips that can be enjoyed all winter long — in fact, some parts of the country are especially beautiful in December, January and February. If you'll be taking your road trip in a rented car, we recommend a hybrid car rental for the fuel efficiency. Depending on the part of the country you'll be in, you'll have your choice of scenic drives.
Pacific Northwest Winter Road Trips
- Seattle to Leavenworth, Washington. While this road trip is certainly weather dependant, if it's not too snowy, it can be taken in less than three hours. Leavenworth is one of the top holiday towns in the country, boasting a holiday event schedule that includes the lighting of a large Christmas tree. You can sip hot chocolate as you shop the Christmas-themed stores, eat some bratwurst and be back in the Seattle area in time for dinner — or, you can cozy up in a Bavarian-themed hotel room or a cabin for the weekend.
- Portland to Bend, Oregon. This three hour drive will take you to a family-friendly town with resorts full of sledding and tubing, plus plenty of trails for cross-country skiing. You'll enjoy a beautiful drive full of trees and snow-capped mountains.
Southwest Winter Road Trips
- Arizona's big loop. You won't see snowy mountains when you drive through Arizona. But you will pass through three deserts and see that, contrary to popular belief, deserts are not always hot. There's nothing quite like a nighttime desert chill — and nothing like an Arizona sunset.
- Albuquerque to Taos, New Mexico. The Taos Art Colony has made this New Mexico mountain town an artistic hub. Between Taos Pueblo, a 1,000 year old community and the Taos Ski Valley, there will be plenty to see and do.
Midwest Winter Road Trips
- The Lake Superior Circle Tour. Not only will you get to pass through three wonderful states (Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan), but you'll also enjoy stunning winter lake sunsets. This is a 1,300 mile journey, so allow yourself enough time. Take a week off — that way you can score a long-term rental discount.
- Chicago to Kohler, Wisconsin. If you're visiting friends or family in Chicago, take the 145 mile drive North to Kohler. In addition to winter activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing and Bavarian curling, Kohler is home to Wisconsin's only five star resort, The American Club.
Northeast Winter Road Trips
- Boston to Newport, Rhode Island. Every February, Newport hosts the Newport Winter Festival. For ten straight days you can enjoy local chili cookoffs, listen to music and take in holiday lights.
- Philadelphia to Lancaster, PA. The heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country makes for the perfect day or weekend escape. Visitors come from all over for caroling, horse-drawn carriage rides and breakfast with Santa Claus. Best of all, most activities are free or almost free.
Winter Road Trips in the South
Charlotte to Brevard, North Carolina. Mountains, waterfalls and winding roads await you in the stunning small town of Brevard. Though you might not see much snow, Brevard becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season with lights, a tree lighting ceremony and lots of activities.
Always check road conditions before heading out, carry an emergency kit, and make sure your tires are in good shape. Winter road trips are magical, but safety comes first!
Compare fuel-efficient car rental options from independent agencies for your winter adventure.