As the weather turns colder and the days get shorter, you may start looking for an escape. A winter getaway to a warmer climate may sound appealing, but traveling in the winter can get expensive. We at Partybus.com have put together a list of some of the best warm-weather cities to visit during the winter that won’t break the bank.
Most of these destinations are on the coasts or in the southern U.S. states, and offer unique things for groups to do, from visiting museums and exploring theme parks to hiking scenic trails and lounging on sandy beaches.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 52°F | Low: 37°F
Average Daily Cost: $156
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands in North Carolina, famous for its beaches, fishing, and lighthouses. Although the Outer Banks is best known as a summer vacation destination, a winter trip to the area can be both relaxing and affordable. Peak season is from June to August, and hotel rates and attractions often raise their prices due to an increase in travelers to the islands.
Winter is a great time to enjoy these locations without the typical high-season summer crowds. With average temperatures in the 50s during the day, you’ll need a jacket, but it’s still pleasant enough to walk around the beach and enjoy the views. Cape Hatteras National Seashore is one of the area’s most popular attractions, encompassing over 70 miles of coastline with opportunities for fishing, hiking, camping, and even exploring lighthouses like the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The Outer Banks is also known for being a popular location for families and large groups, with many private homes for rent and vacation rentals.
San Antonio, Texas
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 67°F | Low: 40°F
Average Daily Cost: $132
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: The Alamo
San Antonio is consistently ranked among the most affordable tourist destinations in the United States, and winter is no exception. With temperatures in the 60s during the day, it’s much more comfortable to walk around and enjoy San Antonio’s many attractions like the River Walk, The Alamo, and Pearl District.
The River Walk is a winding walkway along the San Antonio River and one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Its path is lined with restaurants, hotels, shops, and more, making it a beautiful place to explore even in the cooler weather. The Alamo, one of Texas’ most historic structures, is a must-see destination for any visitor in San Antonio. You can take a guided or self-guided tour of the Alamo compound to learn more about its historic and cultural significance. Another stop to add to your San Antonio itinerary is the Pearl District, a transformed area of brewery buildings from the late 1800s. Here you’ll find restaurants, local shops, an amphitheater, and the Culinary Institute of America’s San Antonio branch.
Key West, Florida
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 76°F | Low: 68°F
Average Daily Cost: $267
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Duval Street
Key West is located at the end of Florida’s chain of keys and boasts warm, sunny weather throughout the year. While this tropical paradise does have slightly higher daily travel costs than other southern cities on the list, it also offers a more peaceful winter experience. Key West is usually jam-packed with tourists and snowbirds from December to March.
If you’re looking to enjoy Key West without the usual large crowds, consider traveling in the winter. You can lounge on beaches like Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach in complete comfort with the warm 70-degree weather. Duval Street is a great place to catch a drink and hear some live music. It’s also the most popular spot to watch a sunset in Key West! Take in breathtaking waterfront views during an evening stroll or even grab a bite to eat at one of Duval Street’s many restaurants.
Charleston, South Carolina
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 61°F | Low: 46°F
Average Daily Cost: $170
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Rainbow Row
Charleston, South Carolina is a must-visit for those who are passionate about history and architecture. Located on the coast, you’ll also get a breath of fresh ocean air and seafront views.
This city is brimming with charm, making it a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Its rich colonial history, cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and iconic pastel-colored row houses make for a unique experience. You’ll find historic areas like the Charleston City Market with stalls dating back to the early 1800s and Rainbow Row, a cluster of 13 pastel-colored historic row houses that embody Charleston’s architecture. For a more scenic outing, walk around Waterfront Park to take in views of the bay. Charleston also has a wonderful culinary scene, so grab a bite at popular places like Fig or Husk.
If you’re planning a weekend trip to Charleston with your family or local youth group, consider booking a bus to simplify your travels around the city. Leave the driving and parking to us, so your group can experience the best Charleston has to offer!
Atlanta, Georgia
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 55°F | Low: 38°F
Average Daily Cost: $211
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Georgia Aquarium
As one of the most populous cities in the Southeastern United States, Atlanta has a diverse selection of attractions, from world-class museums to parks and gardens to a buzzing downtown district. When you visit Atlanta, make sure you stop by these attractions:
The Georgia Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, with more than 10 million gallons of water and thousands of species from around the world. This aquarium is considered a great place for families and people of all ages, and offers group discounts for parties of 15 or more visitors. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is another popular attraction that combines beautiful nature and art. Stroll through the sprawling 30-acres of local flora and fauna or check out one of the special exhibitions like the Imaginary Worlds series of plant sculptures.
If you’d rather enjoy a day indoors with your group, plan to visit the World of Coca-Cola to learn about the history of the soft drink giant, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, or the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. For sports lovers, take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons NFL team.
San Diego, California
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 66°F | Low: 49°F
Average Daily Cost: $202
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Balboa Park
San Diego’s beautiful beaches and sunny weather draw in tourists year round. Many locals would say the best time to visit the city is during the fall months of September through November or during the winter months of December through February. This is because the summer months bring the biggest tourist crowds, which can get hectic, especially in central areas like Downtown, Balboa Park, and La Jolla.
With winter temperatures that stay in the 60s most days, it’s the perfect weather for taking a stroll through Balboa Park, San Diego’s largest park, and most popular tourist attraction. Spanning 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is home to 16 museums, including the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, and the San Diego Air and Space Museum. It’s also home to 19 distinct gardens, several performance centers, a carousel, and more! For those who love aquatic wildlife, a trip to the San Diego Zoo is a must.
The San Diego Zoo is the most-visited zoo in the United States, with over 4 million visitors every year! It’s also home to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary in nearby Escondido. These attractions are definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
Miami, Florida
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 76°F | Low: 65°F
Average Daily Cost: $206
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: South Beach
Miami is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida due to its beaches, art scene, diverse cuisine, and nightlife. This city can get crowded during spring and summer when students are on break, but a winter trip will allow you to enjoy Miami without the throngs of tourists. Locals often say the best time to visit Miami is during the cooler months when temperatures are still comfortably warm in the 70s and the humidity is more bearable.
South Beach is Miami Beach’s most popular destination for those seeking a day of sunbathing, exploring shops and art galleries, and indulging in a late-night cocktail or two. While you’re on South Beach, you can explore the Art Deco Historic District to admire the pastel-colored buildings and unique architecture. If you’re a lover of street art, Wynwood Walls and the surrounding neighborhood offer a collection of painted murals and galleries. For a taste of culture, visit Little Havana for authentic Cuban food and an enjoyable evening filled with salsa dancing. Miami also has a popular zoo, offering plenty of educational experiences for young travelers.
Savannah, Georgia
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 64°F | Low: 45°F
Average Daily Cost: $160
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Forsyth Park
Known as Georgia’s oldest city, Savannah is filled with history. Its cobblestone streets and centuries-old Spanish moss-draped oaks make this city a must-see, and the Savannah Historic District is home to iconic locations like Chippewa Square (where Forrest Gump sat on a bench while telling his story), Colonial Park Cemetery, and Forsyth Park.
Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most beautiful outdoor spaces, so a winter day in the park will give your group a much-needed dose of fresh air and sunshine. The 10-acre park features a large fountain, plenty of walking paths, and a farmers market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can also plan a spooky evening with your group and join one of the many haunted ghost tours in the city!
Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 48°F | Low: 21°F
Average Daily Cost: $207
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Santa Fe Plaza
Santa Fe is a New Mexico gem that blends Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. Although it’s a little colder during the winter months than other locations on this list, it’s still a wonderful place to experience a winter wonderland while avoiding the scorching desert heat that often dominates summer months.
The heart of Santa Fe is its historic plaza. You’ll find adobe architecture, shops selling Native American pottery and jewelry, and a variety of unique eateries. The Santa Fe Plaza also hosts several cultural events like the Traditional Spanish Market in July and the Santa Fe Indian Market in August. These events are worth planning a summer trip around if you’re a fan of local art and hand-crafted goods. For art lovers visiting in winter, plan a trip to Canyon Road, a half-mile stretch of more than 100 art galleries, restaurants, and sculpture gardens.
Dallas, Texas
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 61°F | Low: 61°F
Average Daily Cost: $220
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Dallas is one of Texas’ most populous cities, with much to offer visitors of all ages. Known for its arts and culture, shopping, and booming nightlife scene, Dallas is a great city for a weekend getaway.
To enjoy a day of sports, catch a Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center, or visit Globe Life Park in Arlington to cheer on the Texas Rangers. For a taste of history, be sure to stop at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in November 1963. The Dallas Museum of Art, another cultural landmark, features a large collection of international art, spanning across 5,000 years of history. The museum also offers free admission for all visitors, making it an easy and affordable option to add to your trip.
Tucson, Arizona
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 71°F | Low: 40°F
Average Daily Cost: $157
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Tucson, Arizona is the second-largest city in Arizona after Phoenix and is known for its desert landscape and mountainous views. The surrounding Sonoran Desert is packed with a plethora of hiking trails, rock climbing destinations, and even ancient petroglyphs. But don’t worry—if you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll get a much-needed break from the scorching desert heat that usually occurs in the summer. With average temperatures in the 60s, you can enjoy the outdoors comfortably while avoiding heat exhaustion.
The city of Tucson itself is a wonderful destination with a vibrant arts and culture scene, a historic downtown district, and plenty of local eateries and shops to explore. For a unique experience, be sure to check out the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. This attraction combines a zoo, natural history museum, aquarium, botanical garden, and art gallery—all under one roof.
Galveston, Texas
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 65°F | Low: 51°F
Average Daily Cost: $183
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Moody Gardens
Located off the Gulf Coast, this Texas island is known for its scenic beaches, Victorian-era architecture, and historic sites. Though the island isn’t too big, it can be tricky to get around for large groups. Public transportation is limited in Galveston, making it a bit of a hassle for groups needing to coordinate multiple cars or rideshares. A charter bus rental will ensure everyone travels together comfortably and offers a designated driver for a safe experience.
Galveston’s most popular attractions are Moody Gardens and the historic Pleasure Pier. Moody Gardens is an aquarium, rainforest, and discovery pyramid where you can learn all about the science of nature. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier includes an amusement park with rides, carnival games, an arcade, and restaurants all built above the Galveston Gulf waters. Enjoy a day at the pier in the sun while experiencing panoramic views of the water.
Imperial Beach, California
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 66°F | Low: 47°F
Average Daily Cost: $147
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Tijuana Estuary
Imperial Beach is one of the southernmost beaches in California, known as a sleepy beach town with surf, sun, and lots of local restaurants. Located a mere 15 minutes from the U.S.-Mexico border, it’s also conveniently close to Tijuana, Mexico if your group is planning an international trip.
Take a stroll along Imperial Beach’s famed beach, which borders the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, collectively known as the “Tijuana Estuary.” This protected, biodiverse ecosystem features salt marshes, mudflats, and sand dunes where endangered birds species, marine animals, and native flora thrive. If you want to explore more of the estuary, consider booking a walking tour through the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park.
Sacramento, California
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 55°F | Low: 40°F
Average Daily Cost: $184
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Old Sacramento
Sacramento is located about 90 miles northeast of San Francisco and is California’s capital city. Groups of history buffs should plan to visit Old Sacramento, a historic waterfront district that was revitalized in the mid-20th century. While you’re there, plan to explore the California State Railroad Museum, which features vintage locomotives, exhibits, and train rides. You can also visit the California State Capitol Museum to learn about the state’s history, walk through the museum, or tour the historic state capitol building.
Tampa, Florida
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 71°F | Low: 52°F
Average Daily Cost: $167
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Tampa is often overshadowed by other major Florida cities like Orlando and Miami, but there’s still plenty to do for those interested in this coastal city. In addition to its proximity to some of Florida’s best beaches, Tampa is also home to attractions like Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium.
The Busch Gardens theme park in Tampa is known for its exciting roller coasters, interactive wildlife exhibits, and events like Food & Wine Festival and Christmas Town. Although amusement park lovers may want to experience Busch Gardens during warmer months, winter travel will give you shorter lines. The Florida Aquarium is another great attraction for all ages, featuring rescued sea turtles, colorful marine life, and other aquatic animal encounters.
Birmingham, Alabama
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 54°F | Low: 35°F
Average Daily Cost: $159
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Birmingham is the most populous city in Alabama. Its history dates back to the early 1870s and played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement, making it a fascinating destination for locals and visitors interested in history. Visitors can tour the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to learn about the history of civil rights in the United States, or venture out to the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument to explore 16th Street Baptist Church (a popular gathering site during the Civil Rights Movement) and Kelly Ingram Park, a memorial park in honor of the city’s role in the fight for racial equality.
For those who enjoy art and culture, visit Birmingham’s Art Museum to see contemporary and regional art or check out the exhibits on railroad history at the Southern Museum of Flight.
Yuma, Arizona
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 71°F | Low: 46°F
Average Daily Cost: $149
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Yuma Territorial Prison
Yuma, Arizona, known as “The Sunniest City on Earth,” offers a sunny respite from the chilly winter blues. The city sits on the Colorado River and is near the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll find that Yuma’s winter is a pleasant escape from the sweltering summer weather that frequently occurs in the desert.
Yuma Territorial Prison is the city’s most famous attraction, and was built in 1876. Guests can tour the prison cells where outlaws and lawbreakers were housed between 1876 to 1909. You can also explore nearby historic locations like the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, the Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, and the Yuma Proving Ground Heritage Center. In addition to the area’s historic sites, you can find a variety of breweries and golf courses in Yuma.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 66°F | Low: 47°F
Average Daily Cost: $193
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Gulf State Park
Gulf Shores, Alabama is another one of the most affordable day trips and cities on our list. Enjoy beachside bliss on a budget, with Gulf State Park offering free access to the beach, a large fishing pier, campgrounds, nature trails, and zip lines.
South Padre Island, Texas
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 72°F | Low: 57°F
Average Daily Cost: $198
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
South Padre Island is one of the most popular Texas destinations for families and groups of friends. Its warm, tropical weather year-round makes it easy to enjoy the island’s many aquatic activities like fishing, snorkeling, and even dolphin-watching. Take your family on a guided dolphin watching cruise, try to spot endangered birds at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, or spend the day on the beach building sandcastles. South Padre Island is also home to Sea Turtle, Inc., a rehabilitation and conservation center for native sea turtles.
Cocoa Beach, Florida
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Average Winter Temperatures: High: 88°F | Low: 55°F
Average Daily Cost: $250
Most Famous Attraction to Visit: Kennedy Space Center
Although Cocoa Beach is known for its location next to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the small beach town has plenty to offer its own visitors. Along with its beautiful beaches, Cocoa Beach has surfing, paddle boarding, and other watersport activities. Take a stroll along the Cocoa Beach Pier, which has restaurants and fishing, or try to spot a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center at Space View Park.
If you have some extra time in your schedule, plan a day trip from Cocoa Beach to the Kennedy Space Center to learn about space exploration and the history of the U.S. space program. A charter bus rental will give your group a comfortable ride from your Cocoa Beach hotel or other lodging arrangements to and from the center.
Enjoy Warm Weather Cities with Partybus.com
Ready to hit the road? Partybus.com will find the best bus rental for you, from compact minibuses to spacious full-sized coaches. Enjoy amenities like plush, reclining seats, climate controls, entertainment systems, and more on your private charter bus rental. Call our 24-hour team at 877-563-2133 to get a free quote for your next big group trip.
Methodology
We analyzed data from budgetyourtrip.com, Kayak, Airbnb, usclimatedata.com on the average temperatures and daily costs.