Things to Do in United States in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in United States

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Lowest hotel rates of the year - expect 40-60% savings compared to summer peak season, with luxury hotels often under $150/night
Authentic local experience - attractions have minimal crowds, restaurants aren't overbooked, and you'll interact more with locals than tourists
Winter festival season - Presidents Day weekend events, Valentine's Day celebrations, and Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans create unique cultural experiences
Indoor attractions shine - world-class museums, Broadway shows, and indoor markets operate at full capacity with easy reservations

Considerations

Harsh weather in northern states - temperatures can drop to -18°C (0°F) with wind chill, making outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous
Limited outdoor activities - national parks may have closures, hiking trails can be icy, and beach destinations are largely unusable
Shorter daylight hours - sunset by 5:30pm in northern cities means less time for outdoor photography and sightseeing

Best Activities in February

New York City Museum and Broadway Tours

February is perfect for NYC's indoor attractions - Broadway shows have better availability, museums like MoMA and Met are uncrowded, and Central Park covered in snow offers stunning photography. The cold keeps tourist numbers down 60% compared to summer.

Booking Tip: Book Broadway shows 2-3 weeks ahead for best selection. Museum tickets can be purchased day-of. Indoor walking tours typically cost $25-45 per person. Look for heated transportation options.

Washington DC Smithsonian Institution Tours

All Smithsonian museums are free and perfectly heated, making February ideal for the National Museum of Natural History, Air and Space Museum, and American History Museum. Cherry blossom season hasn't started, so crowds are minimal.

Booking Tip: Most Smithsonian museums require free timed-entry passes booked 30 days ahead online. Private guided tours cost $200-350 for small groups. Metro system connects all major museums.

New Orleans Mardi Gras Cultural Experiences

February culminates with Mardi Gras (March 4, 2025) - the city's most authentic cultural celebration. Temperatures are mild at 19°C (66°F), perfect for parade watching and street festivals. Local cuisine, jazz music, and historic tours are at their peak.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead for Mardi Gras period. Food tours cost $60-85 per person. Parade viewing spots are free, but balcony rentals run $100-300 per person for prime locations.

Florida Keys Island-Hopping Tours

While northern US freezes, the Keys maintain 24°C (75°F) temperatures. February is dry season with minimal humidity, perfect for driving the Overseas Highway, snorkeling, and key lime pie tours. Hurricane season is long over.

Booking Tip: Snorkeling tours cost $45-75 per person and should be booked 1 week ahead. Car rental is essential - expect $40-60/day. Look for glass-bottom boat tours if water is too cool for swimming.

Las Vegas Indoor Entertainment Tours

February weather is perfect for Vegas at 16°C (61°F) days - comfortable for walking the Strip without summer's 43°C (109°F) heat. Show tickets are easier to get, restaurant reservations available, and hotel rates are 50% lower than peak season.

Booking Tip: Show tickets range $75-200 depending on performer. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for better seats. Buffet prices are standard year-round at $30-80 per person. Avoid Valentine's Day weekend for best rates.

San Francisco Wine Country Day Trips

Napa and Sonoma valleys are in winter pruning season - fewer tourists, tasting rooms offer more personal attention, and hotel rates drop 40%. Temperatures hover around 15°C (59°F), perfect for indoor tastings and cozy winery visits.

Booking Tip: Wine tours cost $120-180 per person including transportation. Book 2 weeks ahead for small group experiences. Many wineries require reservations in February. Designated driver services cost $200-300 for full day.

February Events & Festivals

Late February through early March 2025

Mardi Gras New Orleans

The biggest cultural celebration in the US peaks with parades, street parties, and authentic Creole cuisine. Free parade viewing, paid balcony experiences, and city-wide festivities create an unmatched cultural immersion.

February 17-19, 2025

Presidents Day Weekend Sales and Events

Three-day weekend creates shopping opportunities and special museum exhibitions. Many retailers offer 20-40% discounts, and historical sites host special commemorative events.

February 14-15, 2025

Valentine's Day Restaurant Experiences

Major cities offer special dining events, though prices increase 25-50% during February 14-15. NYC, San Francisco, and Chicago restaurants create unique tasting menus and romantic experiences.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Insulated waterproof boots rated to -18°C (0°F) if visiting northern states - sidewalks will be icy and slush puddles are 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) deep

Layering system: thermal base layer, fleece mid-layer, windproof outer shell - indoor heating can be intense so you'll add/remove layers frequently

Waterproof gloves and warm hat - you'll lose 40% of body heat through your head in sub-zero temperatures

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries 50% faster, especially during outdoor photography

Lip balm with SPF - winter sun reflects off snow and creates unexpected UV exposure

Compact umbrella - February rain is frequent and unpredictable, lasting 15-45 minutes

Wool socks and moisture-wicking underwear - synthetic materials become uncomfortable during indoor/outdoor temperature transitions

Small daypack for layers - you'll constantly be adding/removing clothing as you move between heated buildings and cold streets

Sunglasses - snow glare can be intense and UV index still reaches 4-5 on clear days

Hand/foot warmers - small packets provide 6-8 hours of heat for outdoor activities and cost $1-2 per pair

Insider Knowledge

Hotel rates drop dramatically after Valentine's Day - book stays for February 16-28 and save an additional 20-30% over early February prices

Many northern cities offer 'Restaurant Week' events in February with 3-course meals at high-end restaurants for $35-55, normally costing $80-120

Skip rental cars in snowy cities - ride-sharing and public transit are more reliable and safer than driving on icy roads you're unfamiliar with

Indoor farmers markets and food halls are at their best in February - local vendors aren't competing with outdoor events and offer winter specialties like hot soups and seasonal produce