Your Guide to the Ultimate Winter Getaways
Imagine if we could control the weather and turn this scorching hot furnace we call home into a winter wonderland with a cool breeze. Okay, now stop imagining that because we don't have superpowers. However, we humans are pretty smart (sometimes) and invented this convenient vehicle called a plane. You might not know this, but you can book a ticket on said plane and go to any snowy destination you wish! You owe it to yourself for a chill vacation, so we'll supply you with all the coolest spots with a flurry of activities.
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Aspen, Colorado (ASE)
First up are the dazzling ski resorts among the Rocky Mountains of Aspen, Colorado. Between snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow biking, the options for faceplanting in the soft snow are endless. Aspen makes for such a spectacular getaway; we already wrote a whole blog on all the thrilling slopes families can conquer together.
The true hidden gem of Aspen is what's not covered by the snow. That's right, pack your hiking boots! Whether you like to stick to beginner friendly paths or consider yourself an experienced backpacker, this destination is a granola traveler's dream. From strolling the Rio Grande Trail and John Denver Sanctuary to trekking Grottos Trail and Crater Lake Trail, your body may feel tired, but you'll feel rejuvenated once you see the breathtaking views. Best part? You can go from enduring a peak adrenaline rush to appreciating a lavish dinner while admiring the beautiful Bauhaus architecture of Aspen’s town square.
American Airlines provides nonstop service from Austin (AUS) to Aspen (ASE).
Amsterdam, the Netherlands (AMS)
Dreaming of a cozy winter escape? The Dutch capital transforms into a winter wonderland, offering charming streets with festive lights and canals that might just freeze over for ice skating. With temperatures ranging from 30ºF to 50ºF, it's the perfect setting to bundle up and explore the city's rich culture. Warm up with a hot drink at a local café, or stroll through holiday markets filled with seasonal treats. Begin your journey at Amsterdam Central Station (or Amsterdam Central), where experiencing attractions is made effortless by its multiple ways of transportation, including metros, trams, buses, and ferries. Plus, service to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport occurs every 10 minutes from early morning to midnight.
"It's just another city, what's so good about it?" Oh, but Amsterdam is a culture-curated city that carries the past to the present. If you were a student who loved history class, this destination is targeted at you. Experience the in-depth story of Anne Frank at The Anne Frank House; this museum honors the Jewish wartime diarist through an audio tour, quotes, pictures, videos, and authentic pieces. Visit the world's most extensive display of creations by Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh at the Van Gogh Museum or enjoy stories of how the Netherlands stood during the Middle Ages by visiting the Rijksmuseum. After that, take a winter walk or ride through the snowy paths of Vondelpark. Discover the local sculpture by Picasso, spot ducks and herons braving the chill, and find a cozy bench to enjoy a warm drink while taking in the serene landscape.
KLM provides nonstop service from Austin (AUS) to Amsterdam (AMS).
Vancouver, Canada (YVR)
Crave a vacation with vibrant variety? Vancouver makes the incorporation of the great outdoors into city life seem natural. Don't believe me? Walk along treetops on the Capilano Suspension Bridge, then hop on the tallest aerial tramway in North America, the Grouse Mountain Skyride. Once upon the mountaintops, ooh at the grizzly bear habitat, ahh at the bird performance, and haha at the lumberjack show.
As the third largest park in America, Stanley Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities for every type of traveler. Bundle up and walk, cycle, or take a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride along the frosty shoreline. Explore the snow-dusted totem poles, enjoy a winter stroll through the park’s serene landscapes, or warm up with a visit to a nearby pub. Not sold yet? There's literally an aquarium right smack in the middle of this beautiful park, so take the opportunity to witness incredible rescued aquatic species like sea otters and sea lions. The proximity to downtown is so close that it wouldn't make sense not to go.
Air Canada provides nonstop service from Austin (AUS) to Vancouver (YVR).
Anchorage, Alaska (ANC)
A popular misconception about Alaska is that it’s a state of darkness blanketed by miserable weather conditions. Fortunately, for those seeking a winter wonderland instead of battling seasonal depression, Alaska in winter is nothing short of magical. Say hello to Anchorage, Alaska, where the snowy landscape is illuminated by stunning sunrises and sunsets, creating a serene backdrop for your adventures.
'Well, what should I do with all that winter beauty?' Glad you asked! Book a guided tour to explore the majestic Matanuska Glacier, where you can hike across the icy terrain and learn about the glacier’s fascinating history. For an extra treat, opt for a package that includes hotel pickup and a tasting of locally crafted Alaskan wines and honey. If hiking isn’t your style, how about soaring over Anchorage’s breathtaking winter scenery by helicopter, followed by an exhilarating dogsled tour? You might even get to tick whale-watching off your bucket list as you glide through the skies.
*Flights from Austin (AUS) to Anchorage (ANC) are available on multiple airlines and will require a connection.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) partners with multiple airlines to make your dream winter vacation a reality. To learn about all the nonstop flights from AUS, visit https://www.austintexas.gov/department/nonstop-flights-out-aus.