While we’d argue that there’s never a bad time to travel, some places are especially perfect at certain times of the year. Whether it’s heavenly weather, an exciting annual event, or simply shoulder season offering better rates and fewer crowds, here are twelve of our favorite places to go in 2024.
January: California Coast
Everything is vibrant, lush and colorful come January along California’s coast, from San Luis Obispo to Sonoma County. Rolling hills and pastures turn vivid green, dormant vineyards burst with miles and miles of wild, yellow mustard. Gray whales make their annual migration along the rugged and stunning coast. It’s also peak Dungeness crab season, meaning local restaurants are serving up fresh fare caught just hours before. In wine country, winemakers have more time to linger in tasting rooms and chat with patrons than they would during peak growing and harvest months. It’s also easier to snag restaurant and tasting reservations, making last-minute travel plans easy. January is citrus season with Meyer lemons, persimmons and olives making appearances at local markets, produce stands and in seasonal dishes.
February: Colorado
People flock from around the world to Colorado’s majestic Rocky Mountain ski resorts, and each has its own unique vibe. Acclimate to the altitude with a day or two in Denver — which is worth a visit in its own right — then pick the place that suits you best. For low-key Old West charm, head to Steamboat Springs for hot springs soaks and champagne powder. If nothing but champagne itself will do, glossy Aspen/Snowmass and its four celebrity-studded mountains and five-star shopping and hotels will fit the bill. (We love the Little Nell, but even if you don’t stay there, stop in for their out-of-this-world truffle fries.) And for historic mountain charm, great restaurants and gorgeous hot springs, look no further than Glenwood.
March: Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital is never more beautiful than when awash in millions of candy-colored cherry blossoms, and March is usually the best month to catch the bloom. Even if you miss the peak, Spring in D.C. offers mild temperatures that are perfect for strolling between the city’s myriad attractions. March is also Women’s History Month. While the American Women’s History Museum likely won’t open until 2033, the National Gallery of Art has a rotating schedule of tours and exhibitions honoring women in the arts.
April: Key West
“Idyllic” is the best way to define our southernmost spot in April, so head to Hemingway’s favorite after Spring Break and before summer crowds (and heat) make an appearance. Enjoy plays, parades, and a celebration of Key West’s symbolic succession to form the “Conch Republic” along with the island’s customary fare of great museums, restaurants, and architecture. Nature and history lovers must book a day trip to the Dry Tortugas for snorkeling and exploring Fort Jefferson.
May: Louisville
Of course, there’s the most exciting two minutes in sports, but after the Kentucky Derby has been run and the fancy hats put away, you’ll find plenty to do in Louisville during the rest of the month. Take a magnolia-shaded stroll through Old Louisville to admire the Victorian architecture, wet your whistle along the Bourbon Trail, and pay homage to “The Greatest” at the Muhammad Ali Center.
June: Niagara Falls
Early summer is a splendid time for taking in all that Niagara Falls and western New York have to offer. Visit the nation’s oldest state park — a great gateway to one of the wonders of the world. Beyond the Falls, the region is filled to the brim with history, agricultural heritage, and a vibrant culture — all navigable by trolley. Journey through history on a Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruise, and sample an impressive selection of traditional, native, late harvest, and ice wines along the Niagara Wine Trail. Don’t miss spectacular art at the newly expanded Buffalo AKG Art Museum and get a taste of another (culinary) art form along the Buffalo Wing Trail.
July: Alaska
Although winter in the 49th State is something to behold, Alaska in July offers 18+ hours of sunlight — perfect for extended viewing of the rugged state’s abundant wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. Explore Anchorage (the historic Hotel Captain Cook is a great base) then drive — or take the train! — to funky little Talkeetna. The village was the inspiration for the hit TV series Northern Exposure ... and the mayor is a cat. From there, get into the heart of the wilderness on a Denali backcountry adventure.
August: Wyoming
High summer is the most popular time to visit the Wild West paradise of Wyoming, and for good reason. Snow-free hiking, Native American celebrations and nonstop rodeos make August a great time to visit the Equality State. Book summer accommodation well in advance for Yellowstone and Grand Teton but outside of there (and Jackson Hole), "peak season" is still relatively uncrowded in this wide-open state.
September: Chicago
As summer winds down in the Windy City, temperatures — including water temps in Lake Michigan — stay pleasant, making September a great time to visit Chicago. Whether strolling or splashing on the wide beaches, taking in the architecture on a boat tour or exploring the Magnificent Mile, the city shines. Early Fall is also festival season, from the world-renowned Chicago Jazz Festival to many small neighborhood celebrations. Catch a late-season Cubs game at iconic Wrigley Field. And if you’re there for the autumnal equinox, don’t miss Chicagohenge, when the sun perfectly aligns with the city's east-to-west running streets.
October: Boston
Fall foliage suits Boston, crimson and gold leaves fluttering against bluebird skies among some of America’s oldest architecture. Start your city tour on the Freedom Trail, which will lead you to landmarks like the Paul Revere House and Boston Common. Join almost half a million spectators for the Head of the Charles Regatta, the world’s largest three-day rowing competition. Take a spooky day trip to Salem to soak up some witchy Halloween vibes. Finally, be sure to sample some of the country’s best Italian food in the North End neighborhood.
November: New Orleans
Enjoy cooler temperatures in the Crescent City during November, which bursts with special events and festivals. Find your favorite at the Oak Street Po’Boy Festival (and don’t miss the Thanksgiving Po’Boy at Parkway, available only on Wednesdays during November). Celebrate the city’s Caribbean culture at Bayou Bacchanal, and take in some cinema during the New Orleans Film Festival.
December: New York City
It’s Christmastime in the city, and New York City does the holidays in grand style, with over-the-top trees, dazzling light displays, and fun-filled markets. Bundle up for ice skating in Rockefeller Center, which has the city’s most famous Christmas tree. Get gift ideas gazing at the glamorous window displays in the department stores along Fifth Avenue and at the Grand Central Holiday Fair, the city’s longest-running indoor holiday market.
