Goodbye, ☁️☁️☁️ 5 Quick Winter Getaways That Will Make You 😃

By Jamie Edwards

I scrolled through Apple Weather—another long week of ☁️☁️☁️ with an occasional 🌧️🌧️🌧️. The festive season is approaching. I’ll need something to look forward to when our twinkling tree lights and gold ornaments get boxed up. Something fun but fast.

An idea hits me—how about a quick winter getaway? A few days to break free from the monotony, breathe fresh air, and feel restored. Maybe it’s basking in the desert sun, a spray of fresh powder on my face skiing a black diamond, or a fire-lit cabin surrounded by snow-draped pines—something to remind me that winter isn’t only about bleak weather emojis.

Benefits of a Quick Getaway

It’s easy to think a quick getaway isn’t worth the effort—that the planning will outweigh the benefits. It’s just not true, especially when CIRE Travel is on the job. Sometimes, the quick getaways pack a more meaningful punch, as we tend to embrace every moment of them. On longer vacations, we tell ourselves it takes time to ‘settle in,’ often spending the first few days finding our rhythm. Yet, it’s amazing how quickly we find it when a few days is all we have.

Even the shortest trips boost our mental and physical well-being. They provide a much-needed chance to recharge for the cold, dark winter months ahead. A few days in a new environment restores our energy levels and improves our mood. Whether soaking in warm tropical breezes or embracing snowy alpine adventures, a change of scenery has endless benefits.

The Choice is Yours

When choosing the right winter getaway, consider what kind of adventure you’d like. Relaxation, adrenaline-filled excursions, or a mix of both? Consider travel time—sticking to destinations with a direct flight or a manageable drive maximizes your time away. Look for places with plenty to do (if that’s what you’re after) or nothing to do (if that’s more your speed). Check the weather to ensure it aligns with your preferences. Whether chasing the sun or leaning into winter vibes, no one wants their quick getaway blown away by hurricane season.

Focus on accommodations that cater to shorter stays, like resorts with lots of on-site activities or compact, walkable cities that are easy to explore. CIRE can help craft a bespoke itinerary, covering everything from hotel bookings to trendy restaurants so you can make every moment count.

Dates set? Here are five ideas for a quick winter getaway. Even three days away will leave you feeling relaxed, invigorated, and refreshed—proving that sometimes, the best trips come in small suitcases.

Palm Springs, California: For Sun-Seekers and Mid-Century Modern Appreciators

Palm Springs is a desert oasis known for its sunny climate, mid-century modern architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It’s a place for a nature retreat or world-class indulgences—all the makings of a luxurious winter getaway.

Palm Springs is easy to navigate, as most major attractions are located within a short drive or walk from one another. The city’s rich history and proximity to the desert can be easily explored in a few days. Palm Springs provides the right balance of relaxation and adventure for a rejuvenating vacation. Palm Springs has everything from hiking trails, intimate spas, quirky hotels, and speakeasy lounges.

Make the most of a quick winter getaway to Palm Springs:

Joshua Tree National Park
A 45-minute drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is, in a word, enchanting. With otherworldly landscapes, towering rock formations, and the park’s signature twisted Yucca trees, the park is a haven for hikers, photographers, and stargazers. Grab your SLR or iPhone, climb a boulder, and embrace the desert magic.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes visitors on a scenic ride to majestic Mount San Jacinto. At the summit, hike through alpine forests, enjoy breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley, or dine at the mountaintop restaurant—an ideal spot to cool off after a day in the desert.

Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour
Palm Springs is a mecca for mid-century modern architecture and design. Its streets are lined with homes, hotels, and buildings that express the style’s clean lines, textiles, and textures. Guided tours take visitors through swoon-worthy neighborhoods to marvel at the style that has put Palm Springs on the map as a premier design destination.

Getting Away

With direct flights from major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Chicago, and Denver, Palm Springs is an easy-to-reach winter escape. Whether drawn to its architecture, outdoor adventures, or spas, Palm Springs is a hot choice for a cool winter getaway.

Santa Fe, New Mexico: For Art Lovers, Desert Dwellers, and Architecture Junkies

Santa Fe has a unique blend of culture, art, and relaxation that suits a quick and low-key getaway. With its rich history and artistic spirit, this vibrant city invites travelers to slow down and embrace its slow southwestern pace while soaking up desert vibes.

Known for its adobe architecture, rich arts scene, and desert landscapes, Santa Fe feels like a retreat into a world of creative energy and tranquility. Its compact downtown makes it easy to explore on foot, with art galleries, boutique shops, and historic sites around every corner.

Here are three must-see highlights to make the most of your Santa Fe visit:

Canyon Road
Famous for its art galleries and charming, narrow adobe buildings, Canyon Road is the beating heart of Santa Fe’s art scene. Stroll through dozens of galleries featuring everything from contemporary pieces to traditional Native American art. Discover pottery thrown by Native American tribes, dine on authentic southwestern fare, or just bask in the creatively charged desert air.

The Santa Fe Plaza and Historic Sites
The Plaza is the city’s historic center, where visitors can explore museums like the New Mexico History Museum and the Palace of the Governors. Wander the cobbled streets, visit the local shops, and experience the vibrant southwestern culture preserved for centuries. As evening falls, the Plaza comes alive with music and dancing, capturing the spirit of Santa Fe.

Ojo Santa Fe and Ten Thousand Waves
For relaxation and adventure, head to nearby Ojo Santa Fe or Ten Thousand Waves Japanese Spa, two hot spring destinations where travelers can unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters. Looking for a little more action? Nearby Ski Santa Fe has fantastic downhill skiing with stunning mountain views as a backdrop—a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get their adrenaline pumping in the American Southwest.

Getting Away

Santa Fe is a quick hop from cities like Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Phoenix, and Houston. Whether you head to Santa Fe for art, hot springs, or to explore its natural beauty, Santa Fe can be fully enjoyed in a few leisurely days.

Aspen, Colorado: For Ski Bums, Boarders, and Après-Ski Seekers

Aspen is a luxury resort town teeming with world-class ski resorts, high-end restaurants, luxury shopping, and mountain scenery—all the makings of a wonderful winter getaway. The town’s compact layout is tailor-made to wander. If you’re seeking adventure-filled days on the slopes or quiet fireside conversations, Aspen has the best of both.

Three ways to enhance your Aspen experience:

Aspen Mountain and Skiing
Aspen Mountain has exceptional skiing, snowboarding, and expansive slopes suitable for all skill levels. With over 675 acres of skiable terrain, the mountain has wide, groomed runs perfect for beginners, challenging mogul fields, and powder-filled bowls for experts. Aspen Mountain’s snow conditions are impressive, with an average snowfall of 300+ inches annually. Whether taking your first-ever snowboard lesson or expertly weaving around trees off-piste, Aspen Mountain awaits you.

Ajax Tavern
Is après-ski more your style? Look no further than Ajax Tavern. Located at the mountain’s base, this lively spot offers slope views and serves comfort food like truffle fries and the famous Ajax burger. After a day on the mountain, relax on the outdoor patio with a curated selection of cocktails and craft beers, grab a warm blanket, and soak up the atmosphere. Après-ski is at its best at Ajax’s.

Snowshoeing and Hiking
Seeking adventure off the slopes? Explore Aspen’s Hunter Creek Trail, a path through snowy forests and open meadows. Hike the Cathedral Lake Trail for more dramatic vistas, where alpine scenery and frozen lakes create a winter wonderland. These trails will immerse visitors in Aspen’s natural beauty. But be warned, you may never want to go home.

Getting Away

With direct flights from major U.S. cities like Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Los Angeles, Aspen is as accessible as it is exclusive. Its outdoor recreation, high-end accommodations, and cultural sophistication make it a fabulous choice for a luxurious yet active winter getaway.

Charleston, South Carolina: For History Buffs and Southern Foodies

Charleston is a terrific choice for a quick winter getaway due to its interesting combination of history, culture, and cuisine. With cobblestone streets and welcoming Southern hospitality, Charleston is easily explored on foot, making it ideal for a short and culturally enriching trip.

Charleston has a rich food scene featuring Lowcountry classics with modern twists, like fresh seafood, shrimp and grits, and hearty dishes like she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes. The city also boasts expertly preserved antebellum houses and historical monuments. Put Charleston at the top of your winter getaway destination list whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or both.

Add these ideas to your Charleston getaway:

Charleston City Market
Charleston City Market is worth a long stroll—a historic market showcasing local crafts and iconic Southern goods. One of the oldest public markets in the U.S., it’s a must-see for visitors with local finds like sweetgrass baskets (a traditional Gullah art form) and handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Foodies will want to make a beeline to Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits for their namesake, mouth-watering, buttery biscuits. Coffee lovers can get their fix at City Market Grocery. Wherever your appetite takes you,  the city market is a quintessentially Charleston experience.

Aiken-Rhett House Museum
Step back in time with a visit to this well-preserved antebellum home—a fascinating glimpse into Charleston’s complex past. In the city’s heart, Aiken-Rhett is one of the few surviving structures retaining its original furnishings, architecture, and design. Take a guided tour to explore the grand rooms filled with period antiques and historical artifacts while learning about the lives of the Aiken and Rhett families, two prominent mid-19th-century households.

Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter holds an important place in American history, marking where the first shots of the Civil War were fired in 1861. It’s accessible only by ferry, and the journey offers spectacular views of Charleston Harbor. Once at the fort, visitors can explore the historic military structure, which has been carefully preserved to reflect its role in our nation’s turbulent past. The fort’s commanding position provides a unique perspective of Charleston’s significance during the Civil War.

Getting Away

Visiting Charleston is a snap, with direct flights from major cities like New York, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, D.C. Charleston’s airport (CHS) is just a short drive from downtown, making it a hassle-free getaway.

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec: Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Europhiles

Mont-Tremblant seamlessly blends stunning natural landscapes with European-inspired charm—a dream destination for outdoor lovers and Europhiles. Surrounded by the Laurentian Mountains, this alpine village offers hot new outdoor adventures paired with old-world flair. The pedestrian village features cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants. Visit Mont-Tremblant for the culture, but stay for the best European flair on this side of the Atlantic.

Three Must-See Experiences in Mont-Tremblant:

Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort
Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort is one of North America’s premier alpine destinations. This world-class resort has over 100 meticulously groomed trails designed for all skill levels, from first-time skiers to seasoned pros. Snowboarders can test their skills at expertly crafted terrain parks while families enjoy various snow sports like tubing and ice skating.

Pedestrian Village Stroll
Picturesque Mont-Tremblant’s Village is a storybook destination brimming with Euro-charm. Its colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and alpine-style architecture evoke a quaint French mountain town. Strolling through the village, visitors can browse luxury boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and local artisan stores that sell everything from designer fashion to handcrafted souvenirs.

Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant

Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant is set amidst snow-covered forests and alongside the Diable River. This Nordic-style spa combines the ancient healing practices of thermal baths with a serene natural environment.

The spa features outdoor hot baths, cold plunge pools, and saunas where guests can cycle through hot and cold treatments, promoting relaxation, improved circulation, and stress relief. Guests will love the heated lounge, steam room, and outdoor relaxation areas. After a day of skiing or snowshoeing, there’s no better way to soothe sore muscles and restore your body than this tranquil oasis.

Getting Away

Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport has direct flights from major U.S. cities and Canada. Mont-Tremblant is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the airport via rental car or a convenient shuttle service—an accessible getaway, especially for those on the East Coast.

Quick Winter Getaways: 5 Planning Tips

Travel Time: Choose destinations with direct flights or short travel times to maximize your experience. Reduce the time spent in transit so you have more time to unwind and relax.

Pack Light: Avoid overpacking. Stick to versatile, mix-and-match clothing. This will help you move quickly through airports, hotels, and activities without worrying about heavy luggage or delays.

Advance Bookings: To make the most of your getaway, book accommodations, activities, and dining in advance. This ensures you don’t waste time waiting for availability, allowing you to focus on the fun stuff.

Be Flexible: Leave room for spontaneity. Sometimes, the best moments come from exploring unplanned attractions, discovering local gems, or getting lost. Be open to detours, whether it’s a local museum, a hidden café, or an impromptu adventure.

Rest and Relax: Schedule downtime to recharge during your trip. Whether it’s a spa day or a quiet afternoon, moments of relaxation can help you fully embrace the experience. Sometimes, slowing down is the secret to feeling fully revitalized.

Goodbye, ☁️☁️☁️

I look at the weather forecast one more time. It hasn’t changed. But then I realized I don’t need to escape winter—I need to make winter work for me. Whether I conquer a mountain, sip a hot toddy by a fire, or soak up snow-covered landscape views, these short trips are my ticket to shaking off the winter blues.

A few days away is all it takes to remind me that winter doesn’t have to be about heavy coats and endless grey skies—it can be a season for adventure, relaxation, and well-deserved family fun. I’m ready.

Jamie Edwards is an avid traveler, travel writer, and photographer. After 25 years of living and traveling around the globe, she launched I am Lost and Found, her adventure/luxury travel website. Jamie’s goal is simple: to inspire travel.

CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY.  Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.