This Is the One Travel Destination Everyone Should Visit in February at Least Once

February is the calendar’s manifestation of the glass half-full or -empty notion. On the one hand, winter sports enthusiasts are savoring the mid-season skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. Others, however, sit bundled in their coziest pajamas, binging rom-coms and documentaries to their heart’s content. There are certainly those among us, spared from winter’s brisk bite, living in temperate locals, but regardless of where you call home, February travel has a special allure. And we've got the 10 best places to visit in February.

Intrepid travelers jet off to far-flung ski destinations with merino wool-stuffed suitcases and dreams of that après ski life. Those seeking post-holiday tranquility may opt for tropical beaches, and some winter wanderers are in search of once-in-a-lifetime gastronomy.

All are worthy travel inspirations, but the #1 place everyone should visit in February at least once offers a constellation of bucket-list experiences so unique, it can’t be achieved without trained professionals—across multiple fields of expertise. It’s the kind of trip that profoundly impacts how you interact with the world around you.

It’s both deeply mindful and an all-out adrenaline rush—a totally immersive experience. And, as a bonus, your stories and photos from this destination are guaranteed to enthrall party guests and colleagues alike.

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The #1 Place Everyone Should Visit in February at Least Once

Imagine sitting on the beach, watching a baby sea lion pup cuddle with its momma while a red-pouched frigate bird or blue-footed booby flies overhead. In other words, it’s time to move the Galapagos Islands off your bucket-list and onto your 2025 travel calendar. November through June offers warm temperatures and plenty of opportunities to see baby sea lions.

A Galapagos adventure puts you in one of the most unique marine environments in the world—teeming with sea lions, marine iguanas, giant Galápagos tortoise, Galapagos penguins, and nearly 200 unique species and 26 endemic native birds.

Ecoventura expeditions are among the best in the industry with three Relais & Châteaux yachts, the Origin, Theory & Evolve. Days are spent alongside naturalists, exploring the islands or snorkeling and kayaking among the sea lions and manta rays, while evenings are reserved for fine dining, stargazing, sharing tales of adventure.

Each yacht hosts just 20 guests, yet boasts a staff of 13, including two naturalists. Returning to the yacht after a snorkeling session, don’t be surprised to see the concierge—or even the captain—waiting for you, a tray of decadent hot chocolate in hand.

Plan your flights to arrive in Quito, Ecuador a day or two early, which offsets any potential delayed flights. The ILLA Experience Hotel will welcome you with an herbal elixir and traditional food experiences. On the heels of your Galapagos expedition, add on a detour to the rainforest enveloped Mashpi Lodge, where sky-bikes, waterfalls, a dragon-fly gondola and over 400 species of birds await.

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9 Other Best Places To Visit in February 2025

1. Nova Scotia

The world's largest exporter of lobster? It’s not Maine, but Nova Scotia, and the entire month of February is devoted to celebrating. February brings peak lobster season, and the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl features lobster roll and chowder competitions, lobster-centric art, Valentine’s Tea, a makers’ market, and more. Grab a room at Starboard Inn and celebrate lobster love.

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2. Atlantis The Royal Dubai

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Atlantis The Royal Dubai, overlooking the Arabian sea’s crystal-clear waters. Achieve ultimate relaxation at AWAKEN Spa, where the Golden Hour Massage, featuring volcanic stones dipped in 24-karat gold, awaits. Later, indulge in the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant Dinner by Heston Blumenthal or dine under the stars during a Moonlight Session at Cloud 22, furnished by Dolce & Gabbana.

3. Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Winter in New England is as idyllic as it gets, but the Mt. Washington area remains in a category all its own. The Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa blends the opulence of days of yore with modern amenities and classic winter experience such as horse-drawn sleigh rides. Ski the adjacent Bretton Woods; join the fire pit and snow-tubing fun during the February 14 Nordic Nights event; or check out the Family Fun Weeks activities.

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4. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is hosting the Super Bowl this year on February 9 at Caesars Superdome. Located less than a mile away from the Superdome and the famous French Quarter, The Eliza Jane boasts oodles of history.

Situated in historic warehouses, including the headquarters for Peychaud Cocktail Bitters factory, the upscale hotel’s history is equal to its ambiance. Settle in for a craft cocktail at the hotel’s bar, The Press Room, or take it to-go; it’s New Orleans, after all!

5. Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, St. Lucia

If February’s chill sets in, jet off to the newly renovated Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, St. Lucia, where a 64,000 square foot secluded beach proves the best prescription for cabin fever.

After a seaside siesta and a Hummingbird Yoga session, join a catamaran adventure to the Piton mountains. The hillside villas have a Mediterranean feel, and the property is known for its Winter Escape savings package.

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6. Sheridan, Wyoming

It’s genius, really. Skijoring is a competition in which a horse and rider pull a skier along a course with gates, jumps, and rings. Can’t imagine it? Well, you can see watch it live at Wyoming’s Sheridan WYO Winter Rodeo on February 8. The multi-day event also includes hockey, moonlight skiing, local brews and a family sled day.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

The historic streets of Boston percolate with winter festivities in February, including the NHL Four Nations Face-Off. Plus, celebrate love at The Ritz-Carlton, Boston with rose petal turndown service, champagne, and splurgy amenities.

Just around the corner, catch Swan Lake at Citizens Bank Opera House or Nikki Glaser at the Boch Center on February 21 and 22. It’s also time to savor the city’s gastronomical swagger during Dine Out Boston, February 23 to March 15, 2025.

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8. Taos, New Mexico

Debuting in February 2025, Hotel Willa sets a new benchmark in the trend of reimagined motels. The revamped, 51-room hotel channels a rare peacefulness with its terracotta walls, arched doorways, storytelling by the fire pits, and stargazing deck.

Skiing? Absolutely. Enjoy accessible and affordable options like Sipapu, Red River, and Angel Fire. As a bonus, early February features two festivals—the Winter Wine Festival at Taos Ski Valley and the vibey Red River Songwriter’s Festival.

9. Greenville, Maine

Maine's 100-Mile Wilderness looks as dreamy as a holiday snow globe in February, and the outdoor enthusiasts at Appalachian Mountain Club will lead an epic cross-country ski adventure February 25—28. Join AMC for three days of lodge-to-lodge skiing, animal track tutorials, and the unrivaled camaraderie inherent to adventuring together outdoors. The trip begins in Greenville, Maine, and includes stays at Little Lyford Lodge and Gorman Chairback Lodge, late-night cabin fire coziness, and hearty meals.

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