Santa Fe
#7 in Best Cheap Winter Vacations
Though the Southwest brings to mind deserts with scorching temperatures, Santa Fe, New Mexico, conveniently sits close to several different ski resorts. Not only can you schuss the slopes in 40-degree weather, but you can also spend less on lift tickets here than you would in more popular ski destinations. Back in Santa Fe, you can admire art at Canyon Road’s galleries or stroll through Santa Fe Plaza without spending a dime. If you time your visit for late February, you can also score deals on dining out during Santa Fe’s Restaurant Week.
Lake Tahoe
#8 in Best Cheap Winter Vacations
It’s no secret that Lake Tahoe is a great wintertime destination. This lake that straddles the California-Nevada border is known for its premier activities, including skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. To save some coin during your trip, plan on booking your vacation early and staying at one of the lake’s ski resorts. Though resorts can get pricey at times, they often offer vacation packages or multinight discounts to help you cut costs.
