Things to Do in United States in January
January weather, activities, events & insider tips
January Weather in United States
Is January Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak winter sports season with excellent snow conditions at resorts from Colorado to Vermont, with powder averaging 150-200 cm (59-79 inches) base depth
- MLK Jr. Day weekend creates perfect 3-day getaway opportunities with federal holiday Monday (January 20, 2025)
- Post-holiday accommodation rates drop 30-40% after January 3rd in major cities like NYC, Chicago, and San Francisco
- Prime aurora viewing season in Alaska with 18+ hours of darkness and clear, crisp skies ideal for Northern Lights photography
Considerations
- Harsh weather across most of the country with temperatures below -10°C (14°F) in northern states, making outdoor city exploration uncomfortable
- Flight delays and cancellations increase 60% due to winter storms, particularly affecting Northeast and Midwest hubs
- Many national parks have limited access - Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road closes, Yellowstone accessible only via snowmobile or snow coach
Best Activities in January
Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Adventures
January offers pristine snow conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with temperatures averaging -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F). Wildlife viewing is exceptional as elk descend to lower elevations. Clear, dry air provides stunning mountain photography opportunities with minimal crowds on weekdays.
Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Tours
January transforms Yellowstone into a winter wonderland accessible only by snowcoach or snowmobile. Temperatures range from -20°C to -5°C (-4°F to 23°F), but thermal features remain active and wildlife congregates near geothermal areas. Bison, wolves, and elk are easily spotted against snowy landscapes.
Aspen and Vail Skiing Experiences
World-class powder conditions peak in January with average snowfall of 200 cm (79 inches). Temperatures stay consistently cold at -10°C to -3°C (14°F to 27°F), maintaining perfect snow quality. Less crowded than holiday periods but with full mountain operations and après-ski scene.
Florida Everglades and Keys Exploration
January is peak dry season in South Florida with perfect weather averaging 22°C (72°F) highs and minimal rainfall. Wildlife viewing peaks as animals congregate around water sources. Manatee season coincides with cool mornings when they gather in warm springs.
Arizona Desert Hiking and Photography
Perfect hiking weather with daytime temperatures of 18°C (65°F) in Phoenix and Tucson areas. January brings ideal conditions for Sedona red rock exploration and Grand Canyon South Rim visits without extreme heat or monsoon interference. Clear skies provide exceptional photography lighting.
New York City Winter Cultural Immersion
Post-holiday NYC offers incredible cultural opportunities with Broadway shows resuming full schedules, museums less crowded, and winter restaurant week events. Average temperatures of 3°C (37°F) make indoor attractions perfect while Central Park transforms into winter scenery.
January Events & Festivals
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Weekend
Federal holiday Monday January 20, 2025 creates extended weekend perfect for domestic travel. Many cities host commemorative events, parades, and cultural celebrations. Museums often offer special exhibitions and programming.
Sundance Film Festival
Premier independent film festival transforms Park City, Utah into cultural hub. January mountain weather averages -5°C (23°F) but indoor venues showcase cutting-edge cinema. Tickets and accommodations require advance planning.
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Major celebrations in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York Chinatowns mark Year of the Snake beginning January 29, 2025. Parades, cultural performances, and authentic food festivals despite cold weather in eastern cities.