Planning a winter getaway to end 2024 with a bang? Or maybe you’re looking to start 2025 off on an adventurous note. Either way, there’s no better time to treat yourself (or someone special) to a trip that mixes relaxation and exploration.
In this winter travel guide, we’re here to give you the lowdown on where to go and what to do once you’re there.
Inflation sure has hit hard this year. Most of us are hesitant to splurge on ourselves — every dollar saved makes a difference, after all.
That’s why we’re thankful for money-saving tools like Groupon!
Not only does it help stretch your travel budget, but it also lets you try out cool activities and experiences for a fraction of the price—so you’re getting more for less.
This guide highlights a few of our favorite winter destinations, along with top activities you can score on Groupon for much less than retail. Because let’s face it, we all want to experience new places without breaking the bank.
Don’t let rising costs get in the way of your winter plans. You can still take that dream trip—you just need to plan smart and save big to enjoy it all without the hefty price tag!
Table of Contents
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a prime winter destination. Heck, we’ll go as far as to say that it’s a year-round destination. Thanks to all the indoor hotels and casinos, you can fully enjoy the city without worrying about freezing your butt off.
Groupon Deals for Popular Experiences in Las Vegas
AREA15 Level 2 Experience Pass – Omega Mart is the clear bestseller of AREA15, but with admission costs of over $50 per person, it’s not the most wallet-friendly. You can get way more bang for your buck by skipping it and opting for one of the experience passes instead. Right now, there’s a fantastic 50% deal on the One-Day Level 2 Experience Passes, giving you access to 15 unique attractions at AREA15.
Go City Las Vegas Pass – This digital attraction pass is such a great way to bundle and save BIG on top attractions like the High Roller Observation Wheel, a Cirque du Soleil show, a day trip to the Grand Canyon, The Big Apple Roller Coaster, Madame Tussauds, and more.
San Diego, California
When it comes to mild winters, California is where it’s at. San Diego’s warm winter temps make it the perfect escape from the cold—you can still get outside and enjoy everything without bundling up.
Groupon Deals for Popular Experiences in San Diego
3-Hour Whale Watching Tour: Winter is the best time to catch the amazing whale migration along San Diego’s coast! Whale season runs from Dec to April, so this is the perfect opportunity for maximum spotting. With this tour, you’ll be saving up to 52% off their normal tour prices.
LEGOLAND: Ideal for families with LEGO fans. Plus, the fact that you can save up to 34% on admission tickets ain’t too shabby either.
Go City San Diego Pass: We’re huge fans of Go City attraction passes! Go City lets you bundle multiple experiences for one set price, which is usually a lot cheaper than buying tickets individually. With this pass, you get access to popular attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, speed boat rides, whale watching tours, and more. While there’s an all-inclusive version available, we personally prefer the Explorer Pass for its flexibility and value!
Miami, Florida
Miami is a winter favorite for anyone who needs a warm, tropical escape with culture, good food, and lots of time by the water.
Groupon Deals for Popular Experiences in Miami
Everglades Airboat Tour: Adventure through the Everglades by airboat! On this 40-minute ride, you’ll travel nine miles on water, gliding past stretches of sawgrass, alligator holes, and wetland wildlife.
Little Havana Food and Walking Tour: Winter is the perfect time to explore Miami’s colorful food scene, and there’s no better place to dive into it than Little Havana. Join this culinary and cultural walking tour to discover the traditions, history, and flavors of Cuba right in Miami.
New York City, New York
New York is a winter favorite for people who don’t mind the cold and want to embrace it head-on. NYC comes to live in the winter season with its holiday magic and endless things to do.
Groupon Deals for Popular Experiences in NYC
Christmas Holiday Lights NYC Sightseeing Tour: Experience the magic of the holiday season in New York City with a sightseeing tour showcasing iconic landmarks like 5th Avenue, the Empire State Building, and views from The Vessel and The Edge. Of course, complimentary blankets and hats are provided to keep you cozy during the whole thing.
Broadway Show: “The Play That Goes Wrong”: When in NYC, a Broadway show is a must. This Olivier Award-winning comedy depicts a play where everything that could go wrong does. We’ve seen this one for ourselves and can attest that it’s (surprisingly) pretty darn funny!
Go City New York Pass: Go City’s digital attraction pass is a game-changer for saving money in NYC—a must-have in a city where every penny counts. With the Go City Explorer Pass, you can explore at your own pace, choosing from over 90 top attractions, tours, and experiences as you go. Enjoy iconic spots like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, One World Observatory, the Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour, and more for up to 50% off retail prices. This pass brings the best of New York within easy (and budget-friendly) reach!
Oahu, Hawaii
Enjoy warm weather, low humidity, beautiful beaches, rugged greenery, glowing sunsets, and the aloha spirit without the peak crowds. There’s a lot to love about Hawaii’s most diverse island.
Groupon Deals for Popular Experiences in Oahu
Full-Day Oahu Circle Island Tour – See Oahu’s top sights with a full-day, locally guided Circle Island Tour that hits the best spots, including the Byodo-In Temple, Halona Blowhole, North Shore beaches (with winter waves that only pro surfers can take on), and the Dole Plantation. This tour covers everything you’d want to see without the hassle and cost of renting a car.
Traditional Hawaiian Luau – Immerse yourself in traditional Hawaiian culture with a luau experience, where you’ll enjoy a night filled with traditional dance, music, and a Hawaiian feast under the stars. With Groupon discounts, you can save up to 34% on an experience that’ll typically run you $150-$200, making this must-do a bit easier on the budget.
👉 Pro Tip: For an even more immersive luau, go with this one. Learn how to weave and make ti leaf leis. Pound taro into poi, try kava, learn the Samoan fireknife dance, and gain a greater understanding of Malama Aina (taking care of the land) and Aloha Aina (love for the land). We love how it pays homage to Hawaii as well as the rest of Polynesia!
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