12 Cozy Girls Trips in the U.S. to Take This Winter

Aspen, Colorado

“Aspen is absolutely one of our all-time favorite winter destinations to plan a girls trip,” says Allison Odhner, CEO and Bach Boss of Bach to Basic, a luxury all-inclusive bachelor party, bachelorette party, and group travel planning concierge. “While all of Colorado is magical in the winter, Aspen stands out with its cozy and quaint yet luxurious vibe.” Best of all? Skiing is totally optional. Whether you prefer to hit the slopes or enjoy the aprés-ski scene, Odhner tells Travel + Leisure, “There is a place and activity for everyone.”

Echoing these sentiments, Avery Singer and Jolie Lauren, founders of BachBoss, tell T+L that “Aspen is the place to be,” especially for those with a larger budget, where they can spring on hat-making at Kemo Sabe or enjoy aprés-ski at spots like Ajax Tavern or The Snow Lodge. When hunger calls, Singer and Lauren recommend sitting down for a swanky meal at Campo De Fiori, Casa Tua, Matsuhisa, or Cache Cache. Accommodation options are equally incredible, including “hotels and house rentals with fireside and mountain views,” says Odhner.

Hudson, New York

The Catskills and Hudson Valley are an easy drive or train ride from New York City, making them ideal for a low-key girls trip. While Odhner notes, “you won’t find an extraordinary amount of nightlife,” you can expect stunning house rentals and hotels, screensaver-worthy mountain views, and cozy bars and restaurants. She recommends making your base in artsy Hudson, which boasts a “charming downtown with excellent restaurants and upscale shopping.” A stay at The Maker—where select rooms have fireplaces and libraries—puts you within walking distance of the town’s top spots, including The Antique Warehouse, Backbar, Wylde Hudson, Mel The Bakery, White Whale Limited, and Magic Hill Mercantile.

For a fun group activity, sign up for a custom fragrance experience workshop at Poured Candle Bar, a combination gift shop and wine bar. Alternatively, get your zen on by taking a group yoga class at Bodhi.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

“When it comes to winter activities,” says Odhner, “Jackson Hole has it all,” from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding and horseback rides. It’s the perfect pick for adventure-loving girl groups craving a cold-weather escape as “there are cozy vibes in every inch of this town,” according to Odhner. Moreover, “Whether you’re making a custom hat at Encounter Hat Co., cowgirling up at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, or having a private chef come to your château overlooking the mountains, you’re sure to have a fabulous weekend.”

Speaking of accommodations, those who prefer a more centrally located stay combined with creature comforts should consider booking a room at The Cloudveil—a rustic-chic luxury hotel just steps from the Town Square. The two- to four-bedroom suites and heated outdoor infinity plunge pool at Caldera House make this spot next to the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram another great option. Don’t skip town without digging into a hearty meal at beloved haunts such as Snake River Grill, Haydens Post, and The Handle Bar, all of which feature roaring fireplaces that only enhance the cozy, feel-good vibes.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

“When you think of winter escapes, Cape Cod is not typically the first place that comes to mind,” explains Odhner. That said, the destination truly shines in the wintertime when the towns are emptier, leaving the restaurants, bars, and shops with a much more intimate atmosphere.

Spend your days strolling along the beach (hot cocoa or coffee in hand, of course), sipping vino at a local winery, and shopping for antiques. Dig into lobster bisque or clam chowder at one of several oceanfront restaurants like the coastal-chic Stars at Chatham Bars Inn or Thoreau’s at Wequassett Resort & Golf Club with its elegant ambience and stone fireplace.

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Cape Cod, Newport is best known as a beloved summer vacation spot. Yet somehow, the oceanfront city is even more magical in the winter, when you’ll feel as if you have the entire destination to yourself.

Spend your mornings touring Newport’s iconic mansions and popping in and out of boutiques like The Salty Babe, Rochelle’s, and Harper & Tucker before sitting down for brunch at local staples like the Instagrammable Pasta Beach (order the bucatini cacio e pepe and thank me later) or the homey Hungry Monkey cafe. Afterward, enjoy an oceanfront stroll along the famed Cliff Walk before checking out the gourmet hot chocolate bar at The Chanler at Cliff Walk. If it’s too chilly for a walk, cruise down the scenic 10-mile-long Ocean Drive or take a glassblowing lesson at Thames Glass.

Park City, Utah

According to Singer and Lauren, Park City is more affordable than Aspen, and it’s also much easier to get to (a roughly 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport). In terms of activities, the duo recommends snowmobiling and snow tubing (“so fun!”) while Riverhorse on Main is “a must for dinner,” as are Grappa, Yuki Yama Sushi, and Bartolo’s. For an easy brunch or lunch option, look no further than Five5eeds, while nights out are best enjoyed at No Name Saloon and High West Distillery.

Stay at the base of the mountain at the swanky Waldorf Astoria Park City and spring for a room with a fireplace for peak cozy vibes. Also, don’t miss the sprawling outdoor patio (lined with firepits, a heated pool, and Jacuzzis), the 16,000-square-foot spa, or seasonal offerings like s’mores.

Asheville, North Carolina

“Asheville is the perfect cozy girls trip destination because you can get beautiful snowy mountain views, cocktails by a fireplace in a secluded log cabin, and hop around the craft beer scene all in the same day!” explains Mallory Strange of Bach Babes. She recommends popping by the Omni Grove Park Inn for a cocktail on their outdoor terrace, which boasts some of the best mountain views in the city. “Inside,” she says, “you’ll find an upscale log cabin feel with huge fireplaces and the most cozy place to grab a drink with your girls.”

Those craving a bit more adventure can “go for an easy hike at Craggy Pinnacle,” suggests Strange, followed by a visit to one of the city’s many craft breweries, including Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium, Highland Brewing, and Catawba Brewing Company.

Taos, New Mexico

With its adobe architecture, ample hiking opportunities, and dozens of art galleries, the New Mexico mountain town of Taos is nothing short of terrific. Throngs of travelers flock here in winter to hit the (very steep) slopes at the nearby Taos Ski Valley, though it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

Those who prefer a more relaxing experience with a side of soft adventure can peruse the 70-plus art galleries before or after hiking the scenic Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail. At the heart of the Taos downtown area is the aptly named Taos Plaza, which dates back centuries. Nearby, you’ll find some of the most authentic—and flavorful—New Mexican fare, including green chile-filled breakfast burritos at Michael’s Kitchen and red and green chile-smothered enchiladas at La Cueva Cafe. Of course, no Taos trip is complete without a visit to the 1,000-plus-year-old Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s just three miles north of the plaza.

Dahlonega, Georgia

“Dahlonega is a place that does not get the hype that it deserves,” according to Strange. The home of Georgia wine country—which also happens to be a one-hour car ride from Atlanta—features “tons of wineries that are close in proximity” coupled with postcard-worthy views. Per the pro, Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Kaya Vineyard both offer “a cozy mountain feel,” albeit with a luxury flair. Should you need a break from the vino, embark on a waterfall hike or check out the picturesque downtown area, which is dotted with adorable shops like The Humble Candle and Crown & Bear. 

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

“Gatlinburg is a place where you can always find something to do, but you can still have fun doing nothing at all,” says Strange. With that in mind, it’s safe to say that the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is pretty much perfect for every type of girl group. While Strange is quick to highlight the city’s lively downtown area for its ample shopping and dining options, her favorite part about traveling here is Anakeesta, “an adventure in the clouds where you ride a cable car up to the summit and are greeted with panoramic Smoky Mountain views and a nice glass of red wine.”

When it comes time to rest your head, Strange recommends Glamp by Stay Minty, which “has luxury glamping domes decorated like your favorite boutique hotel accompanied by private hot tubs, fire pits, and beautiful running rivers.” 

Greenville, South Carolina

Just an hour’s drive from aforementioned Asheville, the quaint city of Greenville, South Carolina, exudes coziness in every sense—especially in the wintertime. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the shop- and restaurant-fringed downtown area, where highlights include candle-making at Greenville Soy Candle Co., tacos and margaritas at Papi’s, the cascading waterfalls at Falls Park on the Reedy, and the tasty desserts and baked goods at Coffee Underground. For a taste of the city’s best bites, consider a coffee or breakfast tour; I opted for the latter with my BFF and we had a blast.

Later, head to Southernside Brewing Co. for a beer or book a private mixology class at Six & Twenty Distillery. More cocktail-fueled fun awaits inside a private igloo at the AC Hotel Marriott’s hip Juniper bar.

Few, if any, Greenville hotels exude coziness quite like Grand Bohemian Lodge. Here, guests can sip bubbly in a rustic-chic setting anchored by a massive stone fireplace while soaking up stunning views of the falls.

Biddeford, Maine

Just 18 miles from Portland lies the charming town of Biddeford. The perfect setting for a cozy winter weekend escape, this laid-back locale looks like it’s been plucked straight from a snow globe in the colder months when it’s covered in a fresh blanket of white. Kick off your day with breakfast at the historic Palace Diner, before heading on to one of the nearby hiking trails or slopes (Pleasant Mountain and Powderhouse Hill are both less than an hour’s drive).

For something less strenuous, go shopping downtown or embark on a self-guided brewery and distillery tour of the area with stops at Banded Brewing Co., Blaze Brewing Co., Round Turn Distilling, and Batson River Brewing & Distilling, which is located at The Lincoln Hotel. Speaking of the latter, it makes a great home base thanks to its uber-cozy rooms and suites equipped with fireplaces and exposed brick. Tip: Consider visiting during Biddeford’s annual WinterFest, which includes fun programming like sledding, crafting, and live entertainment.