Thinking of escaping to somewhere warm this winter? Why not reconsider and stay closer to home this year. America’s Southern States offer a surprising and diverse variety of winter experiences — and is also easier on the wallet than flying to a distant tropical clime. From mild coastal retreats to snow-dusted mountain landscapes, the South has something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for a memorable winter getaway.

KENTUCKY

Discover a hidden gem in Kentucky. In winter, the state is especially famous for its spellbinding frozen waterfalls. When the temperatures drop, these cascading beauties transform into dynamic icy sculptures, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. Explore the Daniel Boone National Forest, where you’ll see incredible waterfalls like the Red River Gorge’s Natural Bridge. There’s lots of opportunity for winter hiking and ice climbing as well.

WEST VIRGINIA

A hub of outdoor adventure and family fun during winter, the state is also home to the longest sled run on the East Coast at Blackwater Falls State Park. The fun continues just a short drive away at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Savor hot chocolate as you glide along the skating rink, or go to the snow tubing park for more fast-paced thrills. A winter trip to West Virginia would not be complete without a stop at Ogleybay’s Festival of Lights. This amazing Christmas light show has been running since 1985 and attracts more than one million visitors every winter. Ride the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Express for an unforgettable Christmas adventure and also enjoy singing Christmas carols, eating warm cookies and meeting Santa Claus.

TENNESSEE

Animal lovers and outdoor adventures will want to plan a visit to Reelfoot Lake State Park in the northwest corner of Tennessee. The park is particularly popular for fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. Winter is one of the best times to visit because the lack of leaves on the trees gives visitors unimpeded, sweeping vistas of the valleys and mountains. Reelfoot Lake is a spectacular flooded forest filled with towering Cypress trees rising from the water. Hundreds of birds call the lake home, including rare golden and American bald eagles. January and February are an especially good time to spot bald eagles and experienced naturalists offer daily bald eagle and waterfowl tours. and the annual Reelfoot Eagle Festival in February is not to be missed.

NORTH CAROLINA

Want to get your birding on this winter? North Carolina is a haven for migratory birds, particularly tundra swans, which migrate from the Arctic tundra to the coastal plains. Visit Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in North Carolina, and the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge to witness thousands of these graceful birds gliding across the water. Numerous observation platforms are available for viewing these rare swans as they take advantage of the mild climate and abundant food sources throughout the colder months.

Another bird haven in North Carolina is located on the Outer Banks on Pea Island. Here you’ll find not only tundra swans but also northern pintail, snow geese, Canadian geese and more. At Grandfather Mountain, bird-lovers can take advantage of amazing hawk watching. The mountain’s high elevations are the perfect place to watch these powerful birds of prey as they soar through the crisp winter air. If birds aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of other wildlife to see. One of the highlights of winter in North Carolina is elk watching in Cataloochee Valley. You can take tours to see the majestic animals in their natural habitat, grazing in the open plains.

ARKANSAS

Mild conditions make Arkansas one of the top places in the world to enjoy mountain biking all year long. Head to Hot Springs National Park to take a warming dip in a thermal bath. The beautiful landscapes of Arkansas’ Ozark and Ouachita Mountains offer unparalleled winter hikes, with scenic trails and clear, fresh air. Arkansas’ free, world-class state parks system has a wide range of outdoor adventures in 52 parks across the state.