Things to Do in United States in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in United States
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Winter sports at peak conditions - 150-300 cm (59-118 inches) of snow base at ski resorts like Aspen and Park City with 20-30 trails open daily
- Lowest accommodation rates outside major cities - hotels typically 30-50% cheaper than summer peak season, especially in beach destinations
- Desert Southwest perfect weather - Arizona and Nevada see 18-24°C (64-75°F) days with minimal rainfall and clear skies 85% of the time
- Fewer crowds at major attractions - National Parks like Grand Canyon and Yellowstone see 70% fewer visitors, allowing unobstructed photography and peaceful experiences
Considerations
- Severe weather disruptions in Midwest and Northeast - blizzards can cancel flights with 2-3 hour delays common at major hubs like Chicago O'Hare and Denver
- Limited daylight hours - northern cities get only 9-10 hours of daylight, affecting outdoor activity scheduling and photography opportunities
- Many seasonal attractions closed - beach boardwalks, outdoor festivals, and mountain hiking trails often inaccessible due to snow and ice conditions
Best Activities in February
Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Tours
February is prime season for spotting bison herds, wolves, and elk against snow-covered landscapes. Wildlife is more visible as animals gather near geothermal areas for warmth. Temperatures range from -20 to -5°C (-4 to 23°F) but create stunning steam contrasts. Only accessible via snowcoach or snowmobile with guided tours.
Grand Canyon South Rim Photography Tours
Clear February skies provide exceptional visibility extending 160 km (100 miles) across the canyon. Crisp air at 2,100 m (6,900 ft) elevation means layered clothing essential, but snow-dusted rim creates dramatic contrast photography. Fewer crowds mean unobstructed viewpoints and golden hour shots without tourists.
Miami Beach Art Deco Walking Tours
Perfect escape weather with 24-28°C (75-82°F) temperatures and ocean breezes. February coincides with lower humidity before spring break crowds arrive. Art Deco Historic District tours showcase 800+ preserved buildings in optimal walking conditions without summer's oppressive heat.
Napa Valley Winter Wine Tasting
Crush season complete, wineries focus on intimate tastings with winemakers present. February sees 12-18°C (54-64°F) days perfect for touring without summer's 35°C+ (95°F+) heat. Pruning season offers behind-the-scenes vineyard education unavailable during busy harvest months.
Colorado Skiing and Snowboarding
Peak powder conditions with 200-400 cm (79-157 inches) base depths at major resorts. February averages 15-20 fresh snow days with temperatures of -15 to -5°C (5-23°F) maintaining excellent snow quality. Longer daylight than January extends skiing until 4 PM daily.
New Orleans French Quarter Cultural Tours
Ideal walking weather with 15-20°C (59-68°F) temperatures and low humidity before Mardi Gras crowds peak. February offers authentic jazz club experiences, Creole cooking classes, and cemetery tours in comfortable conditions without summer's 90%+ humidity and frequent thunderstorms.
February Events & Festivals
Mardi Gras New Orleans
World's most famous carnival celebration with elaborate floats, masked balls, and street parades throughout the French Quarter. February 2025 celebrations peak with Fat Tuesday falling on March 4th, meaning prime parade season runs through February.
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Major celebrations in San Francisco's Chinatown, New York's Chinatown, and Los Angeles with dragon parades, fireworks, and cultural performances. 2025 marks the Year of the Snake beginning January 29th with festivities continuing through February.