Why Do People Flock to the Cold for Winter Vacations

Here’s What to Do When You Get There

The idea of escaping to a winter wonderland for vacation might seem strange to those who dream of tropical beaches and warm sand. But every year, countless travelers willingly trade sunshine for snow, packing their bags for icy landscapes and subzero temperatures. Why? Because winter destinations offer a kind of magic you just can’t find anywhere else. From steaming hot springs surrounded by snow-capped peaks to the thrill of carving through fresh powder, cold-weather vacations are filled with adventure, relaxation, and postcard-worthy scenery. If you’re wondering what to do on a winter vacation—and why so many people are drawn to chilly destinations—here’s your guide.

Chase the Northern Lights

Some sights are worth braving the cold for, and the northern lights easily top that list. Seeing the sky dance with swirling greens, purples, and blues is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no photograph can truly capture. That’s why so many travelers head north each winter, bundling up in layers and waiting patiently in the freezing night air for a glimpse of nature’s most incredible light show.

The best part? Chasing the northern lights is an adventure in itself. From remote lodges in Scandinavia to glass-domed igloos in the Arctic, there are countless unique ways to witness this spectacle. Many travelers combine the experience with other winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or even staying in an ice hotel for the full cold-weather experience.

Cozy Up in a Remote Winter Cabin

Sometimes, the best part of a winter vacation isn’t the thrill of adventure—it’s the chance to slow down and embrace the quiet beauty of the season. And there’s no better way to do that than by retreating to a remote winter cabin.

Picture a rustic wooden cabin tucked deep into a snow-covered forest, with smoke curling from the chimney and nothing but the sound of the wind through the trees. Inside, a crackling fireplace, oversized blankets, and a hot drink in hand create the kind of cozy atmosphere that feels like something out of a holiday movie.

Cabin getaways aren’t just about the scenery—they’re about disconnecting from the noise of everyday life. Whether it’s a high-end mountain lodge in the Rockies, a secluded lakeside retreat in Finland, or a charming log cabin in the woods of Vermont, winter cabins offer the perfect escape. Spend the day snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, then return to the warmth of your cabin to sip mulled wine, play board games, or simply stare out the window as the snow falls.

Sometimes, the best way to enjoy winter is to do absolutely nothing at all—except sit back, relax, and soak in the magic of the season.

Have Fun on a Frozen Lake

For those who prefer their winter activities on solid ground (or in this case, solid ice), frozen lakes provide endless opportunities for adventure. Ice skating, ice fishing, and even ice driving (yes, that’s a thing in some places) make for unique winter experiences that you just can’t replicate anywhere else.

Gliding across a frozen lake, surrounded by snowy forests and towering peaks, is the kind of experience that turns even the most winter-averse traveler into a cold-weather enthusiast. Many lakes transform into outdoor skating rinks, offering the chance to skate under open skies instead of inside a crowded arena. Some places even host ice festivals, complete with sculpting competitions and winter-themed events that make braving the cold entirely worth it.

Check out Banff as a Great Winter Destination

If breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences top your list, Banff National Park is hard to beat. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this winter wonderland offers some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in North America. But the real secret to Banff’s appeal? The perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

For those who love an elevated view, the sightseeing gondola is a must. Floating high above the treetops, this ride offers panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and dense forests below. It’s a fun activity for anyone who wants to soak in the beauty of winter without braving the cold for too long. And then there are the hot springs. Few things feel better than slipping into steaming mineral water while snowflakes drift around you.

Dog Sledding is one of the Best Winter Experiences

If you’re looking for a winter adventure that feels straight out of a storybook, dog sledding should be at the top of your list. There’s something undeniably thrilling about being pulled through the snow by a team of happy and energetic huskies, racing through a winter landscape with nothing but the sound of sled runners gliding over the ice.

Dog sledding isn’t just about speed—it’s about connection. Learning to work with the dogs, understanding their signals, and experiencing the bond between musher and team adds an extra layer to the adventure. Many locations also allow guests to interact with the dogs, making it a family-friendly activity that appeals to animal lovers and thrill-seekers alike. This is one of those rare experiences that feels both exhilarating and peaceful at the same time.

Snowmobiling Through the Wilderness

If you crave speed and adventure, snowmobiling is the perfect way to explore winter landscapes. Roaring across frozen lakes, weaving through dense snow-covered forests, and scaling mountain trails, snowmobiling offers a thrilling ride through some of the most breathtaking terrain imaginable.

Unlike skiing or snowboarding, snowmobiling requires no special skills—just a willingness to bundle up and go along for the ride. Guided tours are available in nearly every major winter destination, and they often take you deep into remote areas that would be difficult to reach otherwise. It’s the kind of adrenaline rush that makes the cold completely worth it.

Skiing in Breckenridge a Must for Winter Travelers

Skiing is one of the biggest reasons people trade sunny beaches for snow-covered mountains. And if you’re looking for a place that offers incredible terrain, stunning scenery, and a charming ski-town atmosphere, Breckenridge is at the top of the list.

But before you hit the slopes, preparation is key. One of the most important steps is securing a ski rental in Breckenridge before you arrive. The right gear can make all the difference between an unforgettable experience and a frustrating one. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, having properly fitted boots, freshly tuned skis, and the right equipment for your skill level ensures you get the most out of your time on the mountain.

Beyond the skiing itself, Breckenridge offers plenty to do once the lifts close. From cozy après-ski spots to historic streets lined with shops and restaurants, it’s a winter destination that keeps visitors entertained both on and off the slopes.

Ice Hotels: The Coolest Place You’ll Ever Sleep

For a stay that’s completely out of the ordinary, check into an ice hotel. These incredible structures are rebuilt every winter from massive blocks of ice and snow, creating a lodging experience that feels like stepping into a frozen fairytale. From intricately carved ice sculptures to shimmering ice bars where drinks are served in glasses made of—you guessed it—ice, staying at one of these hotels is more than just an overnight experience; it’s an adventure in itself.

The temperature inside an ice hotel typically hovers around freezing, but guests stay cozy with insulated sleeping bags, thermal layers, and reindeer hides. And for those who want the experience without the overnight commitment, many ice hotels offer day tours where you can explore the dazzling frozen architecture before retreating to a warm and toasty cabin.

Experience the Magic of a Winter Festival

Winter isn’t just about snow and cold—it’s also the season of incredible festivals. From Christmas markets in Europe to ice sculpture competitions in Japan, winter festivals bring warmth and joy to even the chilliest destinations.

The Quebec Winter Carnival is one of the biggest and best, featuring everything from ice canoe races to massive snow sculptures. In Scandinavia, the St. Lucia Festival brings a glow of candlelight and tradition, while Harbin, China, hosts one of the world’s most impressive ice and snow festivals, with full-sized buildings made entirely of ice. These festivals are the perfect way to embrace winter while experiencing local culture, food, and traditions.

Snowshoeing: A Simple Yet Beautiful Winter Sport

If you can walk, you can snowshoe—that’s what makes it one of the most accessible winter activities for all ages. It’s a great way to explore winter trails, wander through snowy forests, and experience the quiet beauty of a frozen landscape. Unlike skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing doesn’t require lessons or expensive gear. Just strap on a pair of snowshoes and start exploring.

Many national parks and ski resorts offer dedicated snowshoeing trails, allowing visitors to enjoy winter scenery at their own pace. Whether it’s a guided trek under the stars or a solo adventure through untouched snow, snowshoeing offers a peaceful and rewarding way to connect with nature.

Winter Wildlife Watching: Spotting Nature’s Cold-Weather Wonders

Winter landscapes aren’t just about snow-covered trees and frozen lakes—they’re also home to some of the most fascinating wildlife. While some animals hibernate during the colder months, others thrive in the snow, creating incredible opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to witness nature in its rawest form.

In places like Yellowstone National Park, you can spot wolves silently stalking through the snow, bison covered in frost as they forage for food, and elk navigating the icy terrain. In Scandinavia, reindeer herds migrate across vast snowy plains, while in Canada and Alaska, bald eagles gather along rivers to fish in the icy waters. And for those who venture into the Arctic, the sight of a polar bear roaming across a frozen landscape is an unforgettable experience.

Wildlife watching in winter is unique because the snow makes it easier to track animals, and with fewer crowds, there’s a peacefulness that allows for a deeper connection with nature. Just bundle up, bring a good pair of binoculars, and let the wilderness surprise you.

Indulging in the Best Cold-Weather Comfort Foods

There’s something about winter that makes food taste even better. Maybe it’s the contrast of steaming bowls of soup against the cold air or the way hearty dishes warm you from the inside out. Whatever the reason, winter destinations offer some of the most satisfying comfort foods you’ll ever taste.

In Switzerland, nothing beats dipping crusty bread into a bubbling pot of cheese fondue after a day on the slopes. In Japan, a steaming bowl of miso ramen topped with soft-boiled eggs and tender pork is the ultimate way to fight off the chill. Scandinavia offers reindeer stew, a dish slow-cooked with rich, earthy flavors that feel like a warm hug on a cold night. And in the heart of the Alps, a plate of raclette—hot, melted cheese scraped onto potatoes and charcuterie—will leave you wondering why anyone ever craves a tropical vacation.

Of course, winter sweets deserve their own moment. Think hot chocolate so thick it’s almost pudding, fresh cinnamon-dusted churros from a Christmas market in Spain, or warm, buttery gingerbread straight out of the oven. Whether you’re indulging in a fireside meal or grabbing something delicious from a street vendor, winter travel isn’t just about what you see—it’s also about what you taste.

Take a Scenic Winter Train Ride

For those who want to experience the beauty of winter without strapping on skis or hiking through deep snow, a scenic train ride offers a breathtaking and effortless way to soak in the season. There’s something undeniably magical about watching the world transform into a frozen wonderland through the window of a cozy, heated train car.

Some of the most famous winter train journeys include the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, which winds through snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and towering pine forests. In Switzerland, the Glacier Express takes passengers on an unforgettable ride through the Swiss Alps, passing over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, with views of charming villages and dramatic peaks. For an even more immersive experience, Norway’s Flåm Railway offers a journey through deep valleys, past frozen waterfalls, and up to snow-draped mountain plateaus.

What makes winter train rides so special is the slow, cinematic quality of the journey. It’s not about rushing from one destination to the next—it’s about letting the landscape unfold around you. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa as you pass through a fjord or wrapped in a blanket watching reindeer graze in the snow, a winter train ride is the kind of experience that turns a simple trip into something unforgettable.

The Wrap-Up

A winter vacation isn’t just about cold weather—it’s about unforgettable experiences, stunning landscapes, and the kind of magic that only snow-covered destinations can provide. Whether you’re skiing down powdery slopes, chasing the northern lights, or soaking in a steaming hot spring, winter travel opens up a world of adventure that’s worth every frozen fingertip. So, if you’ve never considered trading your beach towel for a pair of thermal gloves, it might be time to rethink what a dream vacation really looks like. And no matter where you head to next, always remember to Travel Till You Drop!