Exploring Winter Wonderlands: The Best Ski Vacations in America

Winter has arrived and that means it’s time to hit the slopes! America is home to some of the most breathtaking ski resorts in the world, offering thrilling adventures, stunning natural landscapes, & fabulous hotels. Whether you're a black diamond expert or an adorable snow bunny seeking a cozy retreat, these top ski vacation destinations will fulfill your dreams of a Winter Wonderland. Grab your skis, bundle up, turn up the Irving Berlin, and let the snowy adventures begin!

Aspen, Colorado

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a legendary ski town renowned for its luxurious resorts and world-class slopes. The town's four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—offer an array of terrains suitable for all skill levels. But skiing is far from all you’ll find in this adorable little mountain retreat. In between runs, don’t miss the vibrant après-ski scene, upscale boutiques, and exceptional dining experiences.

Best Hotel: The Little Nell - This luxurious five-star hotel offers unparalleled service, elegant accommodations, and a prime location at the base of Aspen Mountain, providing direct access to the slopes. It houses incredible restaurants, a gorgeous pool, and a perfect place to warm up post a day on the slopes.
Best Restaurant: Matsuhisa Aspen - The world-class sushi and Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa Aspen is unparalleled, some of the best in the whole country. Owned by the renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, it’s an omakase experience and definitely an indulgence. If you manage to be in Aspen during the few times a year Nobu himself is there, try to book the uber exclusive “Nobu In Town” reservation where the godfather of sushi himself is preparing dishes, making drinks, signing cookbooks and schmoozing - a total bucket list experience.
Best Après-Ski Bar: Ajax Tavern - Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, Ajax Tavern is the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the slopes. The atmosphere is fun and the outdoor seating section offers an awe-inspiring view of the slopes. Order a creative cocktail or a great craft beer and enjoy their famous truffle fries. But no matter what, don’t leave without indulging in their unparalleled s'mores dessert - it’s an ooey gooey indulgent mess roasted to perfection.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Explore the Maroon Bells - When you’re done on the slopes, take a scenic drive or hike to the Maroon Bells, two iconic mountain peaks known for their stunning beauty and reflection in Maroon Lake. And if you’re up for more adventure, Maroon Bells is some of the best snowshoeing in the country - it’s a picturesque winter wonderland sure to take your breath away with the incredible views and beauty of the snow covered forest.
Best Spa: Remède Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort - Sore muscles and cold toes means time for a spa. Our favorite is the Remède at The St Regis which provides unparalleled relaxation and a wide swath of treatments, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

For those seeking a more rugged and picturesque ski experience, Jackson Hole is the spot. Located near Grand Teton National Park, this resort town offers challenging runs, breathtaking vistas, and a true Western ambiance. With its steep slopes and deep powder, Jackson Hole is a paradise for advanced skiers and adrenaline junkies.

Best Hotel: Amangani - Nestled atop East Gros Ventre Butte, Amangani is a must see to be believed level of incredible. The amazing rooms, phenomenal amenities and views of the Teton Mountains are unparalleled. This upscale resort combines rustic elegance with modern amenities, providing a serene and luxurious retreat.
Best Restaurant: The Snake River Grill - When the vibe you’re after is celebratory, it’s time to heat to The Snake River Grill which provides American cuisine with a Western twist. This upscale restaurant features a cozy atmosphere, excellent service, and a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients.
Best Après-Ski Bar: The Mangy Moose - A long established staple for both tourists and local alike, The Mangy Moose is a wood paneled country vibe with two floors of seating, frequent live music, and the perfect spot to share stories of your epic ski adventures over beer and nachos.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Wildlife Safari - Embark on a wildlife safari through Grand Teton National Park, where you can spot majestic animals such as moose, elk, bison, and even wolves. Available in both the winter and the summer, it’s a really unique way to explore this amazing corner of the country
Best Spa: Amangani Spa - Located within our favorite resort in town, this spa offers a serene setting and a variety of treatments inspired by traditional Native American healing practices.

Park City, Utah

Home to two world-class resorts—Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort—Park City combines outstanding skiing with charming mountain-town allure. As host to the 2002 Winter Olympics, Park City offers diverse terrain, well-groomed slopes, and excellent facilities. Don't forget to explore Main Street, lined with eclectic shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants.

Best Hotel: Stein Eriksen Lodge - Known for its world-class service and European-inspired luxury, Stein Eriksen Lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access to Deer Valley Resort and features lavish accommodations, a renowned spa, and exceptional dining options.
Best Restaurant: Handle - Owned by renowned chef Briar Handly, Handle is the must eat restaurant in Park City known for its creative approach to American cuisine. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and offers a menu that changes frequently to showcase the best flavors of each season.
Best Après-Ski Bar: High West Distillery - This historic distillery turned lively saloon is the perfect place to enjoy handcrafted cocktails and sample award-winning whiskeys. There are two locations, one saloon right on Main St for an easy post-slope drinks. For a more unique experience, make a reservation at the distillery & tasting room up in the mountains in Wanship for a tour and a great meal.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Visit Olympic Park - Explore the Utah Olympic Park, a legacy of the 2002 Winter Olympics, where you can watch thrilling ski jumping and bobsled exhibitions or even try your hand at the bobsled track if you’re feeling brave.
Best Spa: Spa at Hotel Park City - Sprawling spaces, 100+ treatment rooms, gorgeous views, and crackling fire pits makes up this luxurious spa. Whether you’re after massages, facials, or the herb infused steam rooms, it’s easy to lose a day at this fantastic spot.

Vail, Colorado

Renowned for its vast and diverse ski terrain, Vail is a premier destination that caters to skiers of all levels. With its immense size and variety, Vail Mountain guarantees endless adventures. From tree-lined trails to open bowls, visitors can enjoy stunning Rocky Mountain views while gliding through the powdery slopes. The best part? This is all nestled in a beyond charming alpine-style village that will make you feel transported to Switzerland.

Best Hotel: The Arrabelle at Vail Square - This alpine-inspired hotel captures the essence of luxury and elegance. Located in the heart of Vail Square, The Arrabelle offers ski-in/ski-out access, luxurious rooms, and outstanding amenities.
Best Restaurant: Sweet Basil - A meal at Sweet basil is a culinary journey and one of the premier dining destinations in the area. With an innovative menu created by Chef Paul Anders, the restaurant offers a fusion of American and international flavors using locally sourced ingredients.
Best Après-Ski Bar: The Red Lion - A legendary après-ski destination in Vail, The Red Lion offers live music, a lively atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks to celebrate a day on the slopes.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Snowshoeing - Explore the pristine winter landscapes on a snowshoeing adventure through the scenic trails surrounding Vail, offering a peaceful and immersive experience. A slower, calmer way to explore the natural beauty while still being active, snowshoeing is a bucket list must.
Best Spa: The Lodge at Vail Spa - Pamper yourself with a visit to this luxurious spa, which features a variety of treatments, relaxation lounges, and a tranquil atmosphere right in the middle of town. They provide both medi-spa treatments in addition to traditional day spa ones. For really great healing after days of skiing? Sign up for one of their floats!

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a winter paradise offering stunning natural beauty and abundant snowfall. With several ski resorts dotting its shores, including Squaw Valley, Heavenly, and Northstar, there's something for everyone. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, or simply marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe is where you’ll find more nightlife, restaurants, and action while North Lake Tahoe is more about relaxation, nature, and a chiller vibe.

Best Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe - Situated on the slopes of Northstar California Resort, The Ritz-Carlton offers a perfect blend of luxury and mountain charm. Be prepared to spend a lot for this luxury but Enjoy spacious accommodations, a world-class spa, and stunning views of Lake Tahoe.
Best Restaurant: Edgewood Restaurant - Located at the scenic Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Edgewood Restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. After days of ski bumming around town, getting dressed up is a a treat. The floor to ceiling windows views are the only thing that mayyyy distract you from the equally gorgeous dishes put in front of you. If you can get a sunset reservation, you’ll be the real envy of all.
Best Après-Ski Bar: The Auld Dubliner - A popular Irish pub located in the heart of Squaw Valley, The Auld Dubliner provides a lively atmosphere, Irish hospitality, and a wide selection of beers and spirits. Their whiskey menu is really where they shine and is the perfect place to warm up after a day on the slopes.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Snowmobiling Adventure - Still craving a bit of adventure but deeply in need of sitting down after so many days on your skis? We’ve got the perfect solution. Speed through the snowy trails of Lake Tahoe on a thrilling snowmobiling excursion, enjoying the adrenaline rush and stunning winter vistas. This is definitely for the more adventurous among us!
Best Spa: The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Lake Tahoe - It’s also our favorite hotel, so it’s no surprise it is our favorite spa too. Even if you don’t stay at the Ritz, treat yourself with an incredible treatment or two, from massages, facials, and body wraps, in a serene lakeside setting.

Stowe, Vermont

In the picturesque state of Vermont, Stowe is a quintessential New England ski destination. Known for its charming village and historic feel, Stowe Mountain offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Skiers and snowboarders can explore well-groomed trails, challenging glades, and the legendary Front Four, making Stowe a must-visit for East Coast skiing enthusiasts.

Best Hotel: Spruce Peak - Located at the base of Stowe Mountain, this award-winning lodge offers luxurious accommodations, a top-notch spa, and excellent dining options. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and easy access to the slopes at a resort looks like its been nestled right into the side of this incredible mountain.
Best Restaurant: Hen of the Wood - Situated in a converted mill building in nearby Waterbury, Hen of the Wood offers a farm-to-table dining experience showing off the best of what Vermont has to offer. The menu always strives to highlight Vermont's local produce, meats, and cheeses, creating flavorful and innovative dishes in a charming and cozy setting.
Best Après-Ski Bar: The Matterhorn - A beloved après-ski spot in Stowe, The Matterhorn is famous for its live music, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious pub fare. And yes, it’s wildly weird that they’re known for serving both sushi and pizza but you know what, who are we to judge. Grab a beer, a tuna roll, a slice of pepperoni pizza and enjoy!p
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Ben & Jerry's Factory Tour - If you don’t visit Ben & Jerry’s while you’re in Vermont, you’re doing it wrong. Take the drive to nearby Waterbury to take a tour of the Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory where you can learn about the ice cream-making process and sample delicious flavors. And of course, visit the flavor graveyard to see the flavors that never quite made it.
Best Spa: Spa at Topnotch Resort - Quiet, calm, and rejuvenation is the name of the game at this spa. Located in the lovely Topnotch Resort, indulge in treatments, gorgeous outdoor pools, an indoor hot tub complete with waterfalls, and a fully outfitted gym.

Taos, New Mexico

Looking for a unique ski experience? Head to Taos, where Southwestern culture and superb skiing combine. Taos Ski Valley boasts a dramatic landscape with steep chutes and wide-open bowls, attracting expert skiers from around the world. Beginners and intermediates will also find plenty of trails to enjoy. Embrace the rich cultural heritage of Taos and indulge in delectable New Mexican cuisine.

Best Hotel: The Blake at Taos Ski Valley - This ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel combines alpine design with warm southwestern charm. The Blake offers stylish accommodations, on-site dining options, and direct access to the slopes of Taos Ski Valley. It’s a perfect home base for your desert meets mountain vacation
Best Restaurant: The Love Apple - This charming and intimate restaurant in Taos can be found in an adobe chapel from the 1800’s. It’s quirkiness and focus on local produce continues to make them one of the best spots in town. Don’t miss the Oaxacan tamales but everything is amazing. Keep in mind, it’s cash only!
Best Après-Ski Bar: The Martini Tree Bar - Located at the base of the slopes, The Martini Tree Bar is a lively spot to enjoy après-ski drinks and dance to live music. The legend surrounding this bar is almost as fun as the bar itself. It’s not fancy, it’s not over the top, it’s a place to grab a little liquid courage before or after a day on the slopes.
Best Thing to Do Besides Ski: Hot Springs Soaking - Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs near Taos, where you can unwind in the warm waters to help heal up your tired muscles while surrounded by snowy landscapes.
Best Spa: The Living Spa at El Monte Sagrado - Immerse yourself in a world of relaxation at this eco-friendly spa, offering unique treatments, a tranquil atmosphere, and outdoor soaking tubs while the snow falls around you.

So whether you’re after a taste of Switzerland, a mountain in the desert, a lake filled getaway, the rugged beauty of the Rockies or the charm of a tiny New England town, these ski destination have it all. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to find a blend of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling slopes, and vibrant resort towns. So, pack your winter gear, hit the slopes, and create memories that will last a lifetime in these snowy wonderlands. We’ll see you on the slopes!