America is such an exciting place to visit, mainly due to how wildly different each destination is. From scorching deserts to rainforests, to mountains to epic lakes- every state is like an entirely different vacation within itself. And one thing that America isn’t short on is winter wonderland destinations. If you live in a country that doesn’t usually get much snow, this can be the most wonderful experience. And with Christmas around the corner, it’s the ideal way to get in the festive mood!

Before you leave for your snow destination, if you’re traveling from outside of the US it’s important to sort out your visa. You simply won’t be able to enter the country without one so this is a top priority. This is done through the American Esta system, sites like https://www.official-esta.com have more information on this. With the formalities out of the way, you’re free to enjoy your magical winter wonderland trip! Here are just a few of the places to consider.

Rochester, New York

New York is always popular with tourists at Christmas and over the new year. The romantic, vibrant destination is known for its snow in the winter- but there’s so much more to New York than just NYC. Rochester is a city which is located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. It hosts almost a hundred and fifty different festivals and events, and has over twelve thousand acres of parkland to stroll through. This includes the beautiful Blue Bell Hill. On top of this, there are hundreds of family friendly attractions, so you definitely won’t be short on things to do on your trip! You could get a dose of culture by exploring Rochester Castle or Rochester Cathedral. Or you could indulge by tasting amazing food throughout its wide-ranging culinary scene. If partying is more your thing, Rochester's East End district is well known as the center of the city's nightlife. Jam packed full of nightclubs, lounges, coffee shops, bars, and high-end eateries. But what makes Rochester the perfect Christmas destination is the weather. There are a ton of snowy activities to take part in, which are bound to get you feeling perfectly festive. You could visit the outdoor ice skating rink in Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park, for example.

Denver, Colorado

Snowy Colorado is a popular ski destination, but even if you don’t fancy hitting the slopes it’s a gorgeous place to visit. You could opt for Boulder, Aspen or Colorado Springs for some mind-blowing sights. But Denver is definitely one not to be missed. Zoos, museums, gardens and beautiful state and national parks with views to knock your socks off. You can explore trendy markets, try the famous local beer at one of the fifty breweries in the city or take in the stunning mountain views. Plus there are lots of fun snowy activities to check out. From the ice rink at Skyline Park to Icelantics ‘Winter on the Rocks’ concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater.

Salt Lake City, Utah

The capital of Utah, Salt Lake City, is bordered by the buoyant waters of the Great Salt Lake and the snow-capped Wasatch Range mountains. There are five National Parks to visit, bars, ski resorts and loads of winter fun. This includes activities like snowshoeing or sliding down the epic snowy Watasch hills on an innertube. The people of Utah are so proud of the quality of their snow that they’ve declared it ‘the greatest snow on earth.' Utah mountain resorts receive a whopping five hundred inches a year, making it the ideal destination if you want to see the pretty white stuff.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is a major city in Minnesota. It forms what is known as ‘Twin Cities’ St. Paul, the neighboring state capital. There are loads of wintery things to do here- for a truly unique experience, you can even ice skate inside a former train station! This is definitely not the kind of attraction you’ll find elsewhere. Gorgeous wintery views include the frozen St Anthony’s Falls or sights from the Minneapolis Skyway System. This is an interlinked series of enclosed pedestrian footbridges that connect different buildings. The Skyway allows you to see views over the city but in warmth and comfort all year round. Red Bull hosts their Crashed Ice event here, thousands of people flood the streets of Saint Paul to view the ice cross downhill competition. The high-speed action race features skaters competing in teams to a race to the bottom of a long ice track filled with obstacles. You could visit the Ice Castles which are filled with glaciers, ice tunnels, and caves. Alternatively, you could watch some sports, including the Minnesota Timberwolves basketball team.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit is the largest city in the state of Michigan. Although it’s well known for its urban decay, it also makes for a unique and enjoyable vacation destination. There's plenty of action and things to do and see in during the holiday season. From Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular, to breakfast with Santa Claus at the famous Detroit Zoo. You can view twinkling holiday lights right throughout the metro Detroit area, getting you well and truly into the festive spirit. With over ten thousand inland lakes, Michigan is unbeatable for both ice skating and hockey in Winter. On your trip, be sure to head to one of the many Detroit Parks for an unmissable outdoor experience. Sledding and tobogganing are offered, or you could hit the slopes and go skiing. There are plazas, museums, arts and science centers and so much more. This old motor city is definitely not one to be overlooked.

So if viewing incredible, picturesque snow scenes and having fun outdoors in the snow is on your agenda this Christmas, you won’t be disappointed with any of these destinations. So forget your bikini and suntan lotion, pack up your warmest clothes and visit a magical winter wonderland instead. It will be a festive experience you will never forget!