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If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the coming of the coolest season, you’re going to possibly want a place to celebrate in style. But not everyone has the same idea of relaxation: so, whether you’re doing some fall-time camping, some skiing, or just a tour of the mountains up north, there’s a little something for everyone. Below I outlined 6 holiday getaway destinations in the American Southwest!
Las Vegas, NV
If you’re planning on splurging to celebrate the end of the year, there’s only one place to go: Vegas. The City That Never Sleeps is perfect for parties of one or entire group getaways, so if you and your friends want a way to blow off steam in the cold desert air, visiting the Strip is one sure-fire way to do that!
Roswell, NM
You could drive through the mountain towns of New Mexico for a view, or if you’re a true believer, you can visit the tourist trap known as Roswell, the historic unofficial landing site of a famous alien that “never existed”. Any time of year is the right time of year to visit the Bottomless Lakes State Park, but you can also enjoy the eerie UFO Museum & Research Center among other things on your trip to this iconic Southwest town.
Manhattan Beach, CA
If you’re looking for walks on the beach but can do without the swim, Manhattan Beach is a great holiday destination. Its piers and the surrounding residences show off their opulent light displays, and you can enjoy the beautiful shoreline in one of the most tourist-light times of the year. Plus, you’re only a short drive away from much of Los Angeles, meaning you can get some time in Hollywood or even make an impromptu trip to Disneyland!
Angel Fire, NM
Everyone knows that the best time for a ski trip is the fall or winter — and anyone who knows about skiing knows about Angel Fire and their ski resort in New Mexico. With terrain parks and ski slopes galore, and arresting mountain views for miles around, this resort is even worth visiting year-round. However, if you’re keen on getting some time on the slopes, there’s no better place to go!
Flagstaff, AZ
If you like mountain towns and snow capped evergreens, Flagstaff and its rustic charm will definitely be a must on your holiday getaway list. There’s the Arizona Snowbowl — a hot spot for skiing in the Copper State — and various places to enjoy a hot cocoa, hot coffee, or hot toddy around this college town (which is actually less flooded with students during winter break). If you’re looking for some unsullied nighttime beauty, visit Buffalo Park or the Lowell Observatory to stare in awe at the night sky. Flagstaff is one of the best holiday getaway destinations!
San Diego, CA
If you’re looking for a spot in the Southwest that has more consistent (and less wintry) weather these coming months, check out San Diego. This California city has a world-famous aquarium and zoo, delectable seafood, a bustling boardwalk, and even pleasant bay weather in the 60s and 70s year round, making it perfect for California lovers who don’t want to deal with the usual chill that comes this time of year!