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Don't Forget! Our Unit Wide Holiday Luncheon is December 17! 

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Don't Forget! Our Unit Wide Holiday Luncheon is December 17! 

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12:00 – 2:00PM at Huang Engineering Center, Mackenzie Room.

Remember to wear your favorite ugly sweater for a chance to win 1st, 2nd, or 3rd prize!

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In this ultimate guide to Christmas cookies, I'm sharing my best cookie success tips, recommended tools, a free shopping list printable, and top-rated cookie recipes from my website. If you need cookie help or inspiration, this page is for you!

Welcome to my complete cookie guide. There's enough sugar to last us an entire year!

After years of baking cookies-and writing a cookie cookbook-I have a pretty good understanding of what works and what doesn't. Let me help you avoid a failed batch of cookies with my highest rated recipes and no-fail success tips. I recommend starting with my beloved Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookies -also a reader favorite. 🙂

My Cookie Success Guides

Room Temperature Butter

Most cookie recipes call for room temperature butter. There's legitimate science behind this, so don't overlook it. Room temperature butter is cooler than you think, so review my Room Temperature Butter page. And here's my trick to soften butter quickly.

Let's talk recipes. Here are 75+ Christmas cookies including classic Christmas cookies, decorated Christmas cookies, allergy-friendly cookies, chocolate, white chocolate, shortbread cookies, and a category for QUICK cookies!

I'm confident you'll find a cookie to love this holiday season. 🙂

Classic Christmas Cookies

1) Spritz Cookies and Butter Cookies
2) Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
3) Peanut Butter Blossoms and Peanut Butter Cookies
4) Soft Molasses Cookies and Crisp Molasses Cookies
5) Pinwheel Cookies
6) Iced Oatmeal Cookies
7) Raspberry Pistachio Linzer Cookies
8) Snowball Cookies
9) Gingerbread Cookies or try Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies
10) Christmas Sugar Cookies
11) Snickerdoodles (no dough chilling)
12) Jam Thumbprints from Sally's Cookie Addiction
13) Cinnamon Spice Palmiers

Super Festive Christmas Cookies

14) Homemade Gingerbread House
15) Drop Style Christmas Cookies and Christmas Cookie Sparkles
16) Andes Mint Chocolate Cookies
17) Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
18) Easy Cookie Icing for decorating or try classic Royal Icing
19) Red Velvet Kiss Cookies
20) Snowmen Sugar Cookies
21) Chocolate Swirled Meringue Cookies
22) Cake Batter Chocolate Chip Cookies
23) Candy Cane Kiss Cookies
24) Stained Glass Window Cookies

No Chill/Quick Christmas Cookies

25) Christmas Cookies in a Jar
26) Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
27) Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches (like Nutter Butters!)
28) Mini M&M Cookies and M&M Cookie Bars
29) Nutella Chocolate Chip Cookies
30) Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies (use festive sprinkles!)
31) Peanut Butter Cup Surprise Monster Cookies
32) Flourless Almond Butter Cookies
33) Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies
34) Vanilla Bean Biscotti and Dark Chocolate Orange Biscotti
35) Magic Cookie Bars

Allergy-Friendly Christmas Cookies

*Here are all of my egg free baking recipes.

Chocolate Lovers Christmas Cookies

White Chocolate Lovers Christmas Cookies

Shortbread/Slice & Bake

Need Several Batches? How to Maximize Your Time

If you're anything like me, you want to bake at least 5 different kinds of Christmas cookies at once. In fact, I have a dedicated Holiday Cookie Baking Day every single year. After a few stressful experiences trying to cram a bunch of recipes into 1 day, I found the perfect combination of cookies that maximizes my time.

I'm happy to share my schedule and recipe suggestions with you:

1. Make 1 type of decorated cookie. I prefer my gingerbread cookies or Christmas sugar cookies. Make the dough the night before, then bake the cookies first thing in the morning so they are ready to decorate.

2. Make a super festive cookie. I suggest my peppermint mocha cookies or Santa's whiskers cookies. Either dough must chill, so make the dough the night before. The peppermint mocha cookies are one of the most popular cookie recipes on my website.

3. Make a bar cookie and bake them as you prepare the next cookie. I suggest my ultimate magic cookie bars, M&M cookie bars, or peanut butter blondies. (Use festive colored M&Ms instead of Reese's Pieces if desired.)

4. Make a no-bake recipe as the bar cookies bake. I suggest my chocolate coconut snowballs, scotcheroos, or no bake cookies.

5. Bake the cookies from #2. Decorate the cookies from #1 as #2 bakes.

6. Finally, make a no-chill cookie recipe such as spritz cookies (pictured below) or mini M&M cookies. Continue decorating cookies from #1 as these cookies bake, if needed.

Free Printable - Ingredients & Shopping Chart

To make shopping easier, my team and I knew readers would find an ingredient chart helpful when shopping for ingredients. This chart fits 6 recipes-you can list the recipes at the top, then write in the amounts so you can see how many cups, bottles, teaspoons, etc that you need to purchase for each ingredient. You can add extras at the bottom too like candy canes, Hershey Kisses, molasses, etc. (This chart doesn't include basics like salt, baking soda, and baking powder.)

** Free Baking Ingredients Chart PDF: Sally's Baking Recipes Ingredients Chart
Here is a photo preview:

Final Cookie Baking Success Tips

1. Chill the cookie dough. If the cookie dough is particularly sticky, wet, or greasy- chilling is in its best interest. Chilling cookie dough helps prevent spreading.

2. Ditch the specified baking time. I never look at recipe times when I bake cookies. I look at the cookies themselves. The cookies are done when the edges are set and lightly browned.

3. One batch at a time. You get the best possible results when the oven only concentrates on that 1 batch. If you need to bake more than one batch at a time, rotate the baking sheets from the top rack to bottom rack a couple times through the baking process to encourage even browning.

Q: Which Christmas cookies are you making this year? You might also enjoy making a masterpiece yule log, too!

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75+ Popular Christmas Cookie Recipes - Sally's Baking Addiction

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Here are 75 Christmas cookies including gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies, allergy-friendly cookies, and a category for QUICK cookies!

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What is your favorite place to eat on campus?

The treehouse. Good vibes and food, especially the pizza and margaritas

What is one hobby you would love to get into?

Leathersmithing. I want to craft handbags and wallets using the best quality components and give them as gifts to friends and family.

What advice would you give to your teenage self?

Have no fear, be confident, keep thinking forward and roll with it.

Describe one of your favorite work memories.

When I was working as a shipping and receiving admin in the biology department, I had a coworker that taught me wing chun (Bruce Lee martial arts) and did 100 push ups together every now and then. He felt like an older brother to me.

You got your dream job. What are you doing?

Travel and food influencer. I’ll be spending most of my time in Europe and Japan.

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What is your favorite holiday?

Thanksgiving

Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?

Paper planners

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation

What is your favorite snack?

Anything gummy

If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or not, who would they be?

My 4 grandparents whom I never knew

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The attached pic is from a family vacay. My son thinks I look more delighted here surveying the giant platter of seafood I’m about to consume than I do in pics on the days he and his sisters were born. 

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What is your favorite holiday? Thanksgiving! I love that this holiday is all about food and family. We usually host and have family and friends from all over come and stay with us.

What is your favorite snack?

Jalapeno potato chips, crunchy Cheetos, tater tots, and brownies.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Watching K dramas while eating some combination of above-mentioned snacks with chopsticks.

What is your favorite game or sport to watch or play?

I love watching my son play baseball. My family and I are also diehard NY Mets fans, so we know true hardship.

Who is your hero and why?

My dad. He had a tough life, but he turned trials into opportunities. He remains the most positive, gentle, curious soul who loves books and finds humor in everything.

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Belated Welcome (back) to Redrick Taylor! 

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Belated Welcome (back) to Redrick Taylor! 

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What is your favorite holiday?

Christmas

Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?

Starter Jackets! IFYKYK

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation or flight!

What is your favorite snack?

Healthy?: Pineapple Cups or Trail Mix….Junk?: Snickers or Reeses

If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or not, who would they be?

Martin Luther King Jr., Lebron James, Warren Buffet, and Celine Dion

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13 Must Do Holiday Activities in the Bay! 

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13 Must Do Holiday Activities in the Bay! 

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13 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in San Francisco for Kids

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Start a new holiday family tradition with one of our favorite holiday events.

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What is your Favorite Holiday Tradition?

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What is your Favorite Holiday Tradition?

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Winter Closure is From December 23-January 3! 

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Winter Closure is From December 23-January 3! 

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Winter break presents the perfect opportunity to catch-up on some rest and relaxation. Use this handy checklist to prepare for your well-deserved time away from work.

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Jessica Arellano-Cruz 2 Years

Wei Lynn Eng 2 Years

Kelvin Lee 5 Years

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Celebration at VIS from 3:45pm - 6:30pm!

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What is your favorite holiday?

I’m a really big fan of Halloween, only because it combines my two favorite things: Reese’s and niche cultural references in the form of costumes!

Is there anything you wished would come back into fashion?

I really miss flip phones. I felt like slamming them shut when you were making a statement or emotive was too powerful. I don’t feel that same power when turning off my phone with a button.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I’d like the ability to time travel with no spatial consequences. Usually, the media depicts time travel as highly complicated and dangerous, I’d like the simpler version of that, there are a few days I could relive over and over again.

What is your favorite snack?

I have a bad habit of perpetual snacking, meaning if it’s open, I eat it. That could include, but isn’t limited to: Mike & Ike’s (Tropical), Oreos, Goldfish, any baked good, cereal, etc. It’s a painful vice.

If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or not, who would they be?

Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings has been one of the most impactful books I’ve read.

Keke Palmer, I just feel like we’d laugh about a lot, and Akeelah and the Bee was iconic work.

Bell Hooks, All About Love and The will to change were some foundational texts to growing up.

My sister, she’s in Italy with the Navy, and I haven’t been able to sit and have a meal with her in years. I miss the years where I was lucky enough to.

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Hanukkah is from December 25 - January 2! 

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Hanukkah is from December 25 - January 2! 

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In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024 and lasts until sundown on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025.…

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If you've ever wondered who first decided to bring trees inside to celebrate Christmas, or where advent calendars come from, we've tracked some popular festive traditions - as well as some lesser-known ones - back to their country of origin.

Germany

Advent, which means "to come," is the period beginning four Sundays before Christmas. In the 19th Century, German Protestants counted down the days until Christmas by marking 24 chalk lines on a door and rubbing one off every day in December. Paper advent calendars became popular in Germany in the early 20th century when Gerhard Lang, thought to have produced the first printed Advent calendar, began mass printing them. Inspired by a calendar his mother had made, Lang made one with illustrations attached to a piece of cardboard and added doors that could be opened to view the images underneath. They became a commercial success, but it wasn't until the late 1950s that Advent calendars included chocolate.

Today, during the Christmas season, you can even see giant Advent calendars on the facades of buildings in many European towns and cities. Some of the prettiest can be found in Hattingen in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany; Bernkastel-Kues in Germany's Moselle Valley and the old town of Innsbruck, Austria.

Europe

The custom of bringing a fir tree into the home during the winter solstice was common among pagan Europeans. In Scandinavia people decorated their homes and barns with greenery for New Year in order to ward off evil. Since evergreens symbolize eternal life, greenery helped Europeans visualize the spring to come. Among pagan Europeans, tree worship was common and they would decorate a living tree in the outdoors with candles and ornaments meant to symbolize the sun, the moon and the stars on the tree of life.

It's not known exactly when fir trees began to be used by Christians as Christmas trees, but the cities of Tallinn in Estonia and Riga in Latvia lay claim to the first documented use of a public tree at Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter.

Colombia

Tradition: Noche de las Velitas (Night of the Little Candles)

On the night of December 7, Colombia honors Mary and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception with an enchanting celebration of light that marks the start of the holiday season. Colombians illuminate their homes and streets with millions of white and colored velas (candles) in patterned paper lanterns.

The "Night of the Little Candles" was once a small-scale, family-centric affair, but over the years the decorations have become more creative and sophisticated, and electric lights are more often used. Celebrations have become increasingly public, with music and fireworks displays as well as food markets.

You can see a similar tradition in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where a beloved Christmas Eve tradition is the Farolito Walk up Canyon Road. Here the tradition calls for simple paper bags filled with a bit of sand and a tea candle.

Ethiopia

The Christmas story tells us that three wise men, also referred to as magi or kings, traveled to Bethlehem "from the East," following a miraculous guiding star so they could pay homage to the infant Jesus. It's generally thought that the magi came from Asia, Europe and Ethiopia. Many Ethiopians believe that all three (some believe it was 12) Wise Men were Ethiopian.

Today, Ethiopians, who follow the Julian calendar, celebrate Christmas on January 7. Called Ganna or Genna, people dress in white, with most wearing the traditional netela, a thin piece of white cotton cloth with brightly colored stripes across the ends. Worn like a shawl or toga, many people wearing it look very kingly indeed.

Mexico

Poinsettias, which bloom in winter, are indigenous to Central America, specifically to southern Mexico around Taxco del Alarcon and the state of Oaxaca.

A Mexican legend tells of a girl who had nothing to offer the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services but a bunch of weeds. When she knelt down to deposit the weeds by the nativity scene, the bouquet burst into bright red flowers. Ever since, the bright red flowers, whose leaves are thought to be shaped like the star of Bethlehem, were known as the Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night, and have become synonymous with Christmas.

Guatemala

Guatemalans practice a Christmas season ritual unique in the world. At sunset on December 7, the eve of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, people gather in towns and villages across Guatemala to burn an effigy of the devil. A tradition established in the 17th century, people believed that in burning an effigy of the devil, they would cleanse their homes of the evils and misfortunes suffered in the previous year.

Today communities gather in plazas and light a bonfire for the burning of the devil, often a piñata, at 6pm sharp on December 7. Vendors sell devil horns and firecrackers and many revellers wear devil disguises. Afterwards, families will come together to eat buñuelos, traditional donuts, and drink warm fruit punch.

Rome

The tradition known today as Midnight Mass originated in modern-day Israel. In the late 4th century a Christian pilgrim from Rome joined a group of Christians in a vigil in Bethlehem on the night of 5 January - Christmas Eve in the Eastern tradition. The vigil was followed by a torchlight procession to Jerusalem, culminating with a dawn gathering. When the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore was built in 5th century, Pope Sixtus III instituted a Midnight Mass in the chapel, a tradition that today has spread to many Christian countries worldwide.

Québec

In Québec, French-speaking families celebrate Christmas the night before. It's a late-night to early morning event, hence the term réveillon, which comes from réveil, meaning waking. The tradition originated in France and is similar to the way it's celebrated in New Orleans.

Traditionally families would attend midnight mass before returning home for the big meal, where Santa magically appears to dole out gifts. Once the gifts have been opened, everyone moves to the table for a gluttonous meal of tourtière (minced meat pie), mashed potatoes, turkey with stuffing and coquilles Saint-Jacques (great scallops), followed by bûche de Noël (Yule log cake) and sinfully sweet sucre à la crème (tablet, made from sugar and cream). For those still standing, the festivities might last until dawn.

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8 Christmas traditions from around the world - Lonely Planet

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If you've ever wondered who first decided to bring trees inside to celebrate Christmas, or where advent calendars come from, we've tracked some popular festive traditions - as well as some lesser-known ones - back to their country of origin. Advent, which means "to come," is the period beginning four Sundays before Christmas.

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December is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month

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December is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month

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Learn more Here

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Fun Winter Activities in the US – USA Trip Ideas | Viator.com

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If you’re looking for the coolest winter activities in the US, this list has winter national park experiences and epic skiing destinations among other options to explore.

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90 Winter Dinners That’ll Give You An Excuse To Stay In (Read: Hibernate)

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Juan de la Rosa Diaz 12/13

Darrow Hornik 12/15

Sarah Madgic 12/24

Neha Patel 12/24

Mike Devlin 12/25

Hosai Omran 12/25

Monica Perkins 12/29

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Wanapa Veeraprasit 01/04

Philip Lotze 01/06

Judy Huynh   01/06

Karen Cooper 01/10

Brianna Moreno-Alcocer 01/25

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Anjali Mishra 1 Year

Nicolaus Strozeski 1 Year

Tien Nguyen 4 Years

Tanner Walters 4 Years

Mike Devlin 9 Years

Ron Diaz 38 Years

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Things to do in the Bay Area in January!

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Things to do in the Bay Area in January!

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22 Fantastic Things To Do This January In San Francisco

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Start the new year right with these wonderful things to do this January 2025 in San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is Monday January 20, 2025!

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is Monday January 20, 2025!

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Don't come to work!

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January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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The theme for 2025 is Connecting the Dots. Strengthening Communities. Preventing Trafficking

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January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a presidentially designated observance designed to educate the public about human trafficking and the role they can play in preventing and responding to human trafficking.

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Global Grasshopper - travel inspiration for the road less travelled

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1. Breckenridge, Colorado

I'm a huge fan of this adorable mountain town! It offers incredible ski runs coated in deep powder for much of the winter months, a fun après ski scene, and awesome nightlife.

This month and February, is when the average snowfall is at its highest and I love how the town transforms into an Instagram-worthy snowy paradise!
My favorite highlights...

Staying at the Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge - I loved the four private movie theaters which equipped with state-of-the-art video technology, amazing Ski-In/Ski-Out location and the cozy stone fireplace in the The Boot Saloon!

Wandering down Main Street, enjoying the magical holiday lights, and stopping off for an oatmilk Gingerbread Latte and a Red Velvet cupcake at the cozy Clint's Bakery & Coffee House.

Going on a fun guided Backcountry Ski Tour - the small group, friendly guide and the awesome solitude of the untouched slopes made it worthwhile!

Visiting the International Snow Sculpture Championships, it was great to watch teams from all over the world hand-carve their creative sculptures!

Taking a ride on The Imperial Express SuperChair which is the highest chairlift in North America - although it was vertigo-inducing, the breathtaking views of the snowy landscapes below made it worth it!

2. Palm Desert, California

I'm a big fan of this quirky destination which is located next to Palm Springs in the sun-baked Coachella Valley in California. I'm always won over by this zen-like spot filled with natural hot springs, luxury hotels, country clubs, gourmet restaurants, golf courses and upscale spa resorts.

Offering warm desert sun when most of the Northern Hemisphere is hunkered down for winter, Palm Desert is popular among celebrities looking for a blissful winter retreat.

I love that it's not too hot or too cold this time of year, so it's perfect for all sorts of activities, from hiking and biking to desert treks and golf.

I personally enjoy just lounging by a swimming pool before going for a relaxing treatment at one of the many spas located here! For me it's pure bliss!

3. Zion National Park, Utah

I'm a big fan of this unique natural reserve located in southwest Utah! It's filled with gorgeous scenery made up of imposing red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, canyons, gorges, forests and striking sandstone dunes.

The park experiences mild winters compared to other national parks in the country, so I think it's awesome that are so many walking trails are accessible even during the winter months (there's just no shuttle system in operation).

When visiting I loved the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the stunning Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the dramatic Kolob Canyons, the peaceful Riverside Walk Trail and the scenic Weeping Rock Trail and they are all accessible this time of year.

I personally think this month is a great time to explore Zion without the crowds you'll find here in the peak season!
My favorite highlights...

Hiking to the Observation Point, I loved the incredible panoramic park views via the scenic East Mesa Trail.

Driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It was a winding two-lane road which took us through the park and where we saw magnificent vistas at every turn!

4. Big Sky, Montana

I think this is a great month to visit Big Sky because of its huge range of family-friendly events and winter activities as well as the magical snowy scenery.

On my visit I loved the sledging, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice trekking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and the fun après ski scene for those who like to party!

Yellowstone National Park is nearby and when I feel adventurous I stick to the awesome indoor activities instead which includes escape rooms, spa treatments, art galleries, local cooking classes and the interesting Historic Crail Ranch Museum.

I love how the winter evenings in Big Sky, from December to February, are perfect for cozying up in log cabins by roaring fires.
My favorite highlights...

Exploring the scenic Ousel Falls Trailhead and discovering the frozen waterfall.

Exploring the unique boutiques in the town center, I loved the trendy jewelry in the Rhinestone Cowgirl store!

Going for fun beginner snowboarding lessons at the Big Sky Resort!

5. Miami, Florida

Filled with sun-kissed sandy beaches, buzzing beach bars, and opulent At-Deco-style hotels, I can never get enough of this fun city!

Miami is a popular year-round destination, but I personally this month is a great time to visit. I love that there's no summer vacationers and spring-breakers (!) and that I can find funky hotel stays at more budget-friendly prices.

I also like the warm sub-tropical climates and the seven to eight hours of sunshine. I always enjoy strolling down the famous Ocean Drive, visiting museums such as the funky Vizcaya Museum and Perez Art Museum, and discovering the lively clubs and casinos!
My favorite highlights...

Staying at the funky Pelican Hotel - I stayed in Executive Zebra which was adorned with retro-chic zebra prints and quirky original art!

Discovering the Night Garden, a spectacular botanical garden. I loved the stunning seasonal light displays!

Relaxing on Miami Beach, I loved the unique Art Deco-style lifeguard towers!

6. Hunting Island, South Carolina

Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre semi-tropical barrier island located 15 miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina. I always really enjoy visiting here and seeing pristine beaches, green forests, a striking historic lighthouse, and an interesting nature center.

I love visiting during the the off-peak months, prices are cheaper and I avoid the summer crowds so it feels like I have the island to myself!

On my trip I visited the scenic saltwater lagoon, the soft sandy beaches, the popular fishing pier and the haunting Boneyard Beach which was filled with surreally beautiful tree skeletons.

Exploring the unique scenery on the Lighthouse Trail and then climbing the 167 spiral steps to the top of the Hunting Island Lighthouse. I loved the picturesque view overlooking the coast and nearby islands.

Taking an evening stroll along the Hunting Island campground and admiring the clear starry skies!

My favorite highlights...
7. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

The dreamily named Heavenly Mountain Resort is located on the southern shores of Lake Tahoe. I'm a big fan of this magical spot in the winter for its powdery slopes, skiing galore, scenic snow-capped mountains and fun après-ski scene!

I also recommend trying out as many fun things as you can including the snowboarding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing and my personal favorite, the scenic gondola ride which had beautiful panoramic views!

Partying with the locals at the Unbuckle Après Ski Party, where the atmosphere was electric, the DJs were fantastic, and the cocktails were superb - all at an exhilarating 9,150 feet above sea level!

Enjoying the Instagram-worthy views at the observation tower!

8. Brunswick and The Golden Isles, Georgia
My personal highlights...
I'm always captivated by the gorgeous The Golden Isles! It's home to the charming city of Brunswick and the dreamy barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.

Located along Georgia's Atlantic Coast, I love the scenery here which consists of gorgeous marshlands, thick green forests and long, wide sandy beaches.

I personally think the off-peak season is an excellent time to visit, as I always avoid the summer crowds and can find some awesome discounts of accommodation (which range from cozy inns to luxury resorts).

I love the breathtaking views, the interesting historic landmarks and the long, wide golf courses. Throw in that superb southern hospitality, and personally I think this is winter break perfection!

Catching a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in the Old Town, I loved the retro decor!

Exploring the art galleries and interesting museums, my favorites were the Glynn Visual Arts and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.

Spending a night camping at Jekyll Island Campground, I adored gazing at the unpolluted starry skies here!

9. Payette National Forest, Idaho
My favorite highlights...
Based in central-western Idaho, the Payette National Forest is home to 2.3 million acres of peaceful natural beauty and I personally think it's a fantastic alternative to the bigger-name ski resorts like Aspen.

It's blessed with 300 inches of snow annually and offers a huge range of fun winter activities. I love the outdoor activities on offer here which include snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, fat biking and even winter camping!

I was also a big fan of the indoor activities which included spa resorts, art galleries, museums, shopping, craft breweries and fun indoor ice skating.

Taking beginner snowboarding lessons which was a lot of fun despite the many falls!

Going on a fun snowmobile tour with Brundage Snowmobile Adventures - the snowy scenery was magical!

Learning about the county's interesting history and native tribes at Payette County Museum.

10. Kailua Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

This paradise-like coastal town is located on the west coast of Hawaii's Big Island. I think it's a seriously dreamy spot filled with blue skies and a tropical climate all year round.

During the summer months ( June to October) it can get extremely hot, so the gorgeous temperatures this month provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy its soft, white, powdery beaches.

I loved just sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, shopping, relaxing at the spa resorts, hiking the scenic trails, exploring the farmer's markets, soaking up the laid-back vibes and visiting the famous Akaka Falls, which stands at 442 feet high.

This area is one of the warmest places in the country during this time of year and I adore coming here for some winter sun whether its on a package deal or booking independently.

Staying at the boutique PACIFIC 19 Kona - I loved the unique styling and the little details like the award-winning baristas and my in-Room Macrobar where I could buy everything from drinks to sunblock!

Going on the incredible Kīlauea Experience with Native Hawaiian Tour - it was amazing to see the rainforests, volcanic steam vents, huge cliff overlooks, and lava tubes on a friendly guided tour!

Discovering the uniquely beautiful Punaluu Black Sand Beach after buying food for a picnic Punalu'u Bake Shop.

11. Alta and Snowbird, Utah

Located in Wasatch Mountains of Utah, in my opinion these two magical resorts are a skiers paradise! Offering some of the best opportunities for winter activities in the whole country, Alta averages 550 inches of snow annually, so the season is very long and varied.

Snowbird is located a mile from Alta and is famous for having a all-year-round ski season - it lasts over 200 days! I love that it also offers a wide array of slopes, so all levels of skiing abilities are welcome here.
My favorite highlights...
This month sees heavy snowfall in both resorts which covers the top of an already thick covering. I'm also a big fan of the bright, clear days here which enables me to see stunning panoramic views in all their glory as I head up and down the ski lift!

Indulging in a luxury aromatherapy massage at the upscale Cliff Spa.

Experiencing thrilling helicopter skiing (with Powderbird) on a fresh powder day, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Going on a guided ski tour with Snowcat skiing, I loved discovering the tranquil backcountry trails.

12. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

This surreally beautiful spot always wows me and I think it makes a fantastic destination to explore in the winter. Located in southern New Mexico, this protected area is home to one world's largest gypsum dunefield!

I love how its filled with seemingly endless stretches of bright white sand, unique species of fauna and flora that incredibly survive in these inhospitable conditions and active dunes which move at a rate of up to 30 feet per year.

It's too hot to visit here in summer, so in my opinion winter is definitely the best time to discover this unusual gem!
My personal highlights...

Sledging down the sand dunes which was a fun experience (just remember to cover your face if you try it too take it from me, the sand gets everywhere)!

Spending two nights camping under the unbelievably clear starry skies at Campsite #1 (there are ten campsites in total to choose from).

13. Death Valley, California

Death Valley is a desert valley in Eastern California that borders the Great Basin Desert and is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet.

Temperatures are extremely hot and can be dangerous in the summer, so in my opinion, this month is a much better time to discover its surreal wonders.

On my visit I loved seeing the incredible salt flat Badwater Basin, Dante's View (which had stunning views), the extraordinary Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the interesting historic mansion Scotty's Castle and trying spotting wildlife that lives here such as the desert bighorn sheep, lizards, and the tiny pupfish which live in the pools that are saltier than seawater!

Taking a drive along Artists Drive and discovering the beautiful colorful rock formations in Artists Palette.

Stargazing in a sky free from light pollution!

Hiking over Golden Canyon, where I saw some seriously Instagram-worthy views.

Catching a sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the most iconic places in the valley. The unique panoramic views were really beautiful!

14. San Diego, California
My favorite highlights...
I personally think San Diego is a excellent city to visit in the off-peak season because it's home to a year-round Mediterranean-like climate with plenty of sunshine!

Yes the temperatures are cooler compared with other months, but they're still pleasant and for me it's a great escape from cold, dreary weather.

I love coming here and making the most of the beautiful beaches (it's warm enough to lounge on them even this time of year!), the award-winning restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent artistic and cultural attractions, which I think are more enjoyable to explore without the crazy crowds!

I always make sure I visit the stunning Balboa Park, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, the pretty Japanese Botanical Gardens, and the historic Old Town.

Staying at the Pearl Hotel - I loved the trendy, unique design, the oyster-shaped saltwater pool, the poolside weekly "Dive-In" movie nights and the artwork inspired by Japanese female pearl divers!

Exploring the 4-mile-long trails in the beautiful Botanic Gardens which took me past a towering bamboo forest!

Visiting the Old Town and dining on homemade polbano pepper corn dough quesadillas at El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria.

15. South Padre Island and Port Isabel, Texas

Located off the coast of Texas, South Padre Island is a resort town on a barrier island and I'm a huge fan of its soft sandy beaches, calm waters and dolphin watching boat tours.

Summers can get very hot, and spring attracts large crowds, so I personally think winter, when temperatures are pleasantly warm, is the best time to take a trip here. It's also make a budget trip with cheap, off-peak prices.
My favorite highlights...
A short trip away is Port Isabel, which is separated from the shores of South Padre Island by the 2.6-mile-long Queen Isabella Causeway.

I loved exploring the scenic Laguna Madre Nature Trail which has a long boardwalk perfect for birdwatching and then going for a romantic picnic in the pretty Isla Blanca Park!

Visiting one of the most Instagrammable spots, Holiday Sandcastle Village, and gazing at the incredible life-size sand sculptures!

Taking a trip to the entertainment district and trying out the ferris wheel, mini-golf courses and fun go-karts.

Discovering the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Centre which had an amazing boardwalk trail.

16. Moosehead Lake, Maine

I love this place for a unique, under-the-radar winter destination! This deep, cold-water lake in the Longfellow Mountains is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States and in winter, the nearby Squaw Mountain is also open to snowboarders and skiers.

The winter lake scenery is magical this time of year and to make the most of the picturesque scenery, I rent a rustic log cabin and cozy up by a log fire - it's very romantic!

On my trip I went cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking the snowshoe trails by day. When night falls, I stargaze and try to spot the Northern Lights!

Starting the day by eating hearty breakfast cooked on a campfire around the lake, which set me up for a full day of snowy activities!

Taking an awesome snowmobile ride along the scenic Moosehead Trail.

17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

I find this place to be so dreamy and unique! Located in the Gulf of Mexico, west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven small islands and protected coral reefs.

I head here when I need some winter sun and as the name suggests, it has a dry winter season which spans from November to March. This is when there is little or no rainfall and it's not as hot and humid as the summer months.

I always enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing on the gorgeous beaches, the water sports like kayaking and boating and trying to spot the stunning rare birds such as the brown noddy and brown pelicans!

My personal favorite islands were Loggerhead Key, which had a scenic lighthouse and sea turtles, and Garden Key, which was home to gorgeous beaches and the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.

Snorkeling at the Moat Wall and South Coaling Dock Ruins which has the reputation of being the best snorkeling spot in Florida.

Taking a walk around the lush Bush Key which had long sandy beaches - I loved the driftwood and the interesting birds such as pelicans and herons.

18. Tucson, Arizona
My favorite highlights...
I'm a big fan of this vibrant city located in the Sonoran Desert. During the summer months the temperatures can be very extreme so I highly recommend visiting during the winter months instead.

Tucson has been dubbed the ' City of Gastronomy ' by UNESCO, and I love that it's filled with cuisine inspired by a huge range of influences from Spanish and Native American to Mexican.

I'm always charmed by the spectacular natural beauty which is made up of a stunning surrounding mountain range, national parks and pine forests.

Om my trip I visited the scenic Saguaro National Park, majestic Mount Lemmon, the extraordinary Colossal Cave Mountain Park, beautiful open-air museums and gardens, and the interesting old town which was filled with striking Spanish Colonial and Mexican buildings.

19. Fairbanks, Alaska

This place always wows me in the winter! One of Alaska's largest cities, it's an awesome place for watching the incredible Northern Lights as its located directly underneath the most active light region known as the Auroral Oval!

I personally think this is month is a great time to visit as the cold weather tends to keep the crowds away and its officially off-season, so it's possible to find some great deals on flights, hotels, and tours.

I love how the snowy scenery is also very photogenic and sunrises and sunsets last around one to one and a half hours this time of year, transforming the sky into a kaleidoscope of oranges, pinks and blues.
My favorite highlights...
I always enjoy sledging, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and taking a warming dip in the nearby Chena Hot Springs (which was my favorite thing to do)!
My personal highlights...

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19 Amazing Places To Visit In January USA - GlobalGrasshopper

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January may be a nothing kind of month, but I personally think it's a great time to liven things up! From winter wonderlands to sunny escapes, here are my