News & Trending Travel News

10 Best Winter Getaways for Seniors That Won’t Break the Bank

Get out of the cold with these warm and affordable winter trips that are perfect for seniors.

senior couple smiling while standing outdoors
Updated Oct. 1, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

It can be chilly in many parts of the country during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay out in the cold.

You can still have a great time at any number of winter getaways even if you’re on a budget or trying to find ways to supplement your Social Security. It just depends on where you want to go and what kind of deals you can find.

So pack some sunscreen and some warm-weather attire and get out of the cold with these affordable destinations that won’t break the bank.

If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources

Over 50 and love traveling? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member, you could be missing out on huge travel perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on hotels and resorts, airfare, cruises, car rentals, and more.

How to become a member today:

  • Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
  • Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
  • Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

An AARP membership not only unlocks discounts that could save you hundreds on your next trip, but you’ll also have access to deals on vacation packages, guided tours, and exclusive content to help plan your next getaway.

Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (do not skip this step!). Doing so will allow you to take up to 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.

Become an AARP member now

Savannah, Georgia

Kovcs//Adobe River Street Savannah Georgia USA

Savannah is a wonderful place to visit if you like the charm of historical homes and other unique attractions. This southern city is also a great place to wander, with plenty of parks and a riverwalk. 

And make sure you check out a sightseeing tour by day or a ghost tour at night to get a good feel for the city.

New Orleans, Louisiana

f11photo/Adobe pubs and bars with neon lights in the French Quarter New Orleans

New Orleans is another great southern city that’s particularly inviting for music fans. The area is well known for plenty of jazz clubs or other live music that will suit just about any taste. 

Check out the French Quarter for drinks and food as you take in the unique New Orleans architecture along Bourbon Street. And make sure gumbo or beignets are on your dining budget while you’re there.

Las Vegas, Nevada

vichie81/Adobe aerial Las Vegas at night

Las Vegas has something for everyone. While you can gamble at any number of casinos on the Strip, there are also plenty of options for non-gamblers as well. 

Check out a show at one of the hotels or try different restaurants at a variety of price points depending on your budget. 

And don't forget about the casino buffets. Some may be pricier than others, so it’s a good idea to see what your options are before you decide to eat there.

Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card

There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

You can earn additional points just by using this card for your everyday purchases — unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The 25,000 bonus points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel or dining purchases.

If you want to travel and dine out more, the Travel Rewards card can help you get where you want to go.

The best part? There's no annual fee.

Click here to apply now.

South Padre Island, Texas

David/Adobe South Padre Island Texas

South Padre Island’s beaches can be a warm place to relax during the cold winter months up north. You can enjoy plenty of seafood and drinks at one of the many restaurants along the Gulf of Mexico.

For a more active day, try horseback riding on the firm beaches on the island. You can also sit on a local beach to read, although the water may be a little chilly for swimming during the winter.

A warning for retirees looking for a relaxing getaway: The area is a favorite for spring breakers so remember to plan your trip before or after they arrive.

Tampa Bay, Florida

SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe Tampa Bay Florida

On the eastern side of the Gulf of Mexico is Tampa Bay. Although Tampa is a big city, the area around Tampa Bay is filled with activities. Walk along the city’s riverwalk in the morning or enjoy a round of golf in the afternoon without having to worry about too much heat.

Make sure you include the Florida Aquarium and Zoo on your travel list and check out its website for tickets. Prices can vary depending on when you visit so try to pick a day that’s not as busy for the best deals.

Palm Springs, California

Jeff Whyte/Adobe water feature on a golf course in Palm Desert

If the desert is more appealing, head to Palm Springs, where temperatures will be comfortable in the winter compared to the heat of the summer. 

Palm Springs offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking in Joshua Tree National Park or being dazzled by the waterfall in Tahquitz Canyon. 

You can also enjoy a stroll down Palm Canyon Drive with plenty of galleries or shops that carry mid-century modern treats.

Phoenix, Arizona

Dreamframer/Adobe Phoenix Arizona

In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix is another big city that has a lot to offer. If you want culture, visit the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum of Native American art and culture, or the Musical Instrument Museum.

Nearby Scottsdale is home to more than 200 golf courses, so you can enjoy a round of golf while your home course is buried under snow. And with so many courses to choose from, you can find a place to play no matter your budget.

Pro tip: If you’re a Costco member, check out Costco travel packages. You may be able to save some extra money with your membership or get additional deals while you’re at a resort in the area.

Kona, Hawaii

HDjeff/Adobe Kona Coast Hawaii

Kona is home to plenty of warm beaches that you can enjoy during the winter months, but there are many other activities too. 

In Volcanoes National Park — where Mauna Loa recently erupted — you can take a hike or tour the volcanoes in the area, but be sure to check current restrictions. The island also has plenty of delicious restaurants and a variety of places to stay depending on your budget.

If you’re retired, you have the flexibility to travel during the week instead of the weekend. On weekdays, you may get better prices on airline tickets and save money.

Solvang, California

Jim Ekstrand/Adobe rows of grapevines curve over hills

If you’re a wine lover, check out the Santa Ynez Valley wine country north of Los Angeles. The area isn’t as popular as places like Napa Valley, which gives you the chance to take an affordable trip to plenty of wineries in the area. 

The quaint Danish-inspired town of Solvang also has restaurants you can try or you can take a stroll through the town to admire the architecture and European feel.

Unlock exclusive entertainment deals and VIP perks (without a credit card)

Ready to take your entertainment and travels to the next level? Experience the finer things in life with the SELECT card.

No, it's not a credit card, it’s an exclusive membership — and your passport to a world of elite benefits and unforgettable moments.

Imagine sipping complimentary cocktails in downtown Manhattan at KYU NYC or saving 20% on the best sushi in Hollywood Hills at Yamashiro.

Like to shop? Members receive VIP discounts like 15% off at Brooks Brothers, and up to 60% off at Tumi.

Enjoy special offers at luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Omni Select. For example, you get 15% off at Hyatt Hotels worldwide.

But it’s not just about the hundreds (or thousands) you could save. There are so many features that make you feel like a VIP every day. Like SELECT’s white-glove concierge that assists with bookings, recommendations, or anything you need. And priority access to reservations to some of the year’s hottest events (many not open to the public).

Apply for the SELECT card today

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Darryl/Adobe wooden paseo to the gulf

Along the Gulf Coast of Alabama is Gulf Shores, which boasts beautiful beaches and azure water. 

You can enjoy plenty of affordable activities on the water like kayaking or paddleboarding, or you might want to head out on a fishing trip. 

The area also offers a variety of places to eat and enjoy the local seafood and warm nights.

Bottom line

luengo_ua/Adobe senior couple walking together on ancient sightseeing

Before you leave, make sure you have the best travel credit cards in your wallet to maximize your saving when you’re making your winter escape.

To help you stay within your budget, you can also travel on a non-busy day or book your trip for the off-peak season when prices may be lower. 

And don't forget to look for ways to save money now so you can enjoy the most out of your vacation later.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Benefits

Card Details

  • $0 annual fee
  • Simple, flat-rate rewards
  • Flexible redemption options
  • Up to 75% preferred Rewards bonus potential
  • Apply Now
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.74% - 28.74% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Bank of <span class='whitespace-nowrap'>America<sup>®</sup></span> Travel Rewards credit card
4.1
info
Apply Now

on Bank of America’s secure website

Read Card Review

Intro Offer

Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

Annual Fee

$0

+

Why we like it


Author Details

Jenny Cohen

Jenny Cohen is a freelance writer who has covered a bit of everything, from finance to sports to her favorite TV shows. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and FoxSports.com.