12 Cozy Girls Trips in the U.S. to Take This Winter

Aspen, Colorado

“Aspen is one of our all-time favorite winter destinations to plan a girls trip,” says Alison Odner, CEO and boss of Bach to Basel, a luxury all-inclusive bachelor party, bachelorette party, and group travel planning concierge. “Although all of Colorado’s magic is magic in the winter, Aspen stands out with its laid-back and luxurious vibe.” The best? Skiing is completely optional. Odner explains that whether you like to hit the slopes or enjoy the après-ski scene Travel + Leisure“There’s a place and activity for everyone.”

Echoing those sentiments, Avery singer and Bacchus founder Avery Lauren tells T+L that “Aspen is a place,” especially for those on a big budget, where they can walk around making hats in Camo Sabe or enjoy après-ski at places like Ajax Tower or the Snow Lodge. When hunger calls, Singer and Lauren recommend sitting down to eat tsukinaki at Campo de Fiori, Casa Toh, Matsuhisa, or Cache Cache. Lodging options are equally incredible, including “fireside and mountain-view hotels and home rentals.”

Hudson, New York

The Catskills and Hudson Valley are an easy drive or train ride from New York City, making them ideal for a low-key girls’ trip. Although Odner notes, “you won’t find an extraordinary amount of nightlife,” you can expect amazing homestays and hotels, screensaver-worthy mountain views, and cozy bars and restaurants. She recommends making your base in Arcee Hudson, which “boasts a charming downtown with great restaurants and upscale shopping.” A stay at the Maker—where select rooms feature fireplaces and libraries—puts you within walking distance of the city’s top spots, including Antique Warehouse, Bake Bar, Wild Hudson, Mel’s Bakery, Whitewheel Ltd., and Magic Hill Mercantile.

For a fun group activity, sign up for a custom fragrance experience workshop at the poured candle bar, a combination gift shop and wine bar. Alternatively, get your Zen on by taking a group yoga class at Bodhi.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

“When it comes to winter activities,” says Odner, Jackson Hole has it all, “from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding and horseback riding. According to Odner, it’s a great choice for groups of adventure-loving girls looking to escape the cold because “every inch of this town has a cozy vibe.” Additionally, “whether you’re making custom hats at Encounter Hat Co. , cowgirling at a million-dollar cowboy bar, or having a private chef come to your chateau overlooking the mountains, you’re sure to have a great weekend.”

Speaking of accommodation, those who prefer a more centrally located stay with creature comforts should consider booking a room at Cloudville. Kaldira House’s two- to four-bedroom suites and heated outdoor infinity pool make this place another great option, along with the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. Don’t leave town without digging into a hearty meal at beloved haunts like Snake River Grill, Hayden’s Post, and Handlebar, all of which feature roaring volcanoes that only add to the laid-back, feel-good vibes.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

“When you think of a winter escape, Cape Cod isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind,” Odner explained. That said, the destinations really shine when the city empties out, leaving the restaurants, bars and shops with a much more intimate atmosphere.

Spend your days strolling along the beach (hot cocoa or coffee in hand), sipping vino at a local winery, and shopping for antiques. Dig into lobster bisque or clam chowder at one of the many seaside restaurants, such as the Chatham Bars Inn at Chatham Bars Inn, with its elegant ambiance and stone fireplace.

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Cape Cod, Newport is known as a beloved summer vacation destination. Yet somehow, the oceanfront city is even more magical in winter, when you feel like you have the entire floor to yourself.

Spend your mornings visiting Newport’s famous mansions and popping in and out of boutiques like Salty Babe, Rochelle’s, and Harper & Tucker. Bucatini cacio e pepe and thank me later) or the homemade Hungry Monkey Cafe. Afterwards, enjoy a seafront stroll alongside the famous mountain walk before checking out the delicious hot chocolate bar at Channelr on the Cliff Walk. If it’s too chilly for a walk, take a cruise on the 10-mile ocean drive or take a glass-blowing lesson on the Thames Glass.

Park City, Utah

According to Singer and Lauren, Park City is more affordable than Aspen, and easier to get to (about a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport). In terms of activities, the duo recommends snowmobiling and snow tubing (“so much fun!”) while the River Horse on Main is “a must for dinner,” as is Grappa, Yukiyama Sushi, and Bartolo’s. For an easy brunch or lunch option, look no further than Five 55 Ed, while nights are best enjoyed at No Saloon and High West Distillery.

Stay at the base of the mountain at the swanky Waldorf Astoria Park City and spring for a room with a fireplace for cozy loft vibes. Also, don’t miss the spacious outdoor patio (lined with firepits, a heated pool, and Jacuzzis), the 16,000-square-foot spa, or seasonal offerings like s’mores.

Asheville, North Carolina

“Asheville is the perfect laid-back girls’ trip destination because you can get gorgeous snowy mountain views, a cocktail by the fireplace in a secluded log cabin, and hop around the craft beer scene all in the same day!” Bach explains Mallory Strange of the chapters. She recommends popping by the Omni Grove Park Inn for a cocktail on its outdoor terrace, which boasts some of the best mountain views in the city. “Inside,” she says, “you’ll get the feel of an upscale log cabin with huge fireplaces and a very cozy place to have a drink with your girls.”

The slightly more adventurous can “go for an easy hike to Craigie Pinnacle,” followed by a visit to one of the city’s many craft breweries, including Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium, Highland Brewing, and Catawba Brewing Company.

Taos, New Mexico

With its adobe architecture, plenty of hiking opportunities, and dozens of art galleries, the New Mexico mountain town of Taos is second to none. Flocks of winter travelers flock here to hit the (very steep) slopes at nearby Taos Ski Valley, though it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

Those who prefer a more relaxed experience with a side of gentle adventure can peruse the more than 70 art galleries before or after hiking the scenic Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail. At the heart of downtown Taos is the appropriately named Taos Plaza, which has centuries of history. Nearby, you’ll find some of Mexico’s most authentic and flavorful fare, including green chile-filled breakfast burritos at Michael’s Kitchen and red- and green-chile-fueled enchiladas at La Civa Cafe. Of course, no TAOS trip is complete without a visit to the more than a thousand-year-old Taos Pueblo, just three miles north of the plaza.

Dahlonga, Georgia

According to Strange, “Dahlonga is a place that doesn’t get the hype it deserves.” Home of Georgia wine country—which is also an hour’s drive from Atlanta. According to Pro, both Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Kaya Vineyards offer “a relaxed mountain feel” with a luxurious flare. If you need a break from vino, embark on a waterfall hike or check out the beautiful downtown area, which is lined with humble candle and cute shops like Taj and Bear.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

“Gatlinburg is a place where you can always find something to do, but you can still enjoy doing nothing,” Strange says. With that in mind, it’s safe to say that the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is pretty much perfect for all kinds of girl groups. Although Strange is quick to highlight the city’s lively downtown for its ample shopping and dining options, his favorite part about traveling here is Anikesta, “On an adventure into the clouds you board a cable car and are greeted with panoramic Smoky Mountain views and a nice glass of red wine.”

When it’s time to rest your head, Strange recommends Glamping by Stand Minty, which has “luxury glamping domes decorated like your favorite boutique hotel with private hot tubs, fire pits and beautiful running rivers.”

Greenville, South Carolina

Just over an hour away from the aforementioned Asheville, the city of Greenville, South Carolina, is perfect in every way, especially in the winter. You could easily spend a day exploring the shop- and restaurant-filled downtown area, where highlights include candle-making at Greenville Soy Candle Company, tacos and margaritas at Puppies, the cascading waterfall at Falls Park, and plenty of underground desserts and baked goods. For a taste of the city’s best bites, consider a coffee or breakfast tour. I chose the latter with my BFF and we had a blast.

Afterwards, head to Southernside Brewing Company for a beer or book a private mixology class at Six and Twenty Distilleries. More cocktail-fueled fun inside a private igloo at AC Hotel Marriott’s hip Juniper Bar.

Few, if any, Greenville hotels pull off cozies like the Grand Bohemian Lodge. Here, guests can sip bubbly in a rustic-chic setting anchored by a massive stone fireplace while soaking up stunning views of the falls.

Bedford, Maine

Just 18 miles from Portland is the charming town of Ballyford. The perfect setting for a cozy winter weekend escape, this laid-back locale looks like it’s been straightened out of a snow globe during the colder months when it’s covered in a fresh blanket of white. Kick off your day with breakfast at the historic castle diner, before heading out on one of the nearby hikes or slopes (Pleasant Mountain and Powderhouse Hill are both less than an hour’s drive away).

For something less strenuous, go shopping in town or take a self-guided brewery and distillery tour of the area including Banded Brewing Company, Blaze Brewing Company, Round Turn Distilling, and Batson River Brewing & Distilling, located in the Lincoln Hotel. Speaking of the latter, it makes a great home base thanks to its uber-corner rooms and suites that are outfitted with fireplaces and exposed brick. Tip: Consider visiting during Biddeford’s annual Winterfest, which features fun programming like sledding, crafting, and live entertainment.