8 Travel Ideas for the Winter-Weary

Family: Philadelphia

When: Beginning in late April

Why now: The City of Brotherly Love’s museum collection (don’t miss the Franklin Institute or the Barnes) will add the Museum of the American Revolution. The grand opening (April 19) will feature, no surprise, a parade of military reenactors.

Tip: For cheesesteaks, per Philly.com, skip the usual options and head instead to John’s Roast Pork, Joe’s Steaks or Philip’s Steaks.

Start here: visitphilly.com

Nature: Costa Rica

When: Now through the end of March

Why now: Costa Rica is for (nature) lovers, whether you want to explore the rain forests of Corcovado National Park, walk under the canopy at Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve or snorkel the reefs of Cahuita National Park.

Tip: Travel writer Camille Willemain recommends picking one beach to serve as home base, then planning hikes and other excursions nearby.

Start here: travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/costa-rica

Art: Honolulu

When: March through May

Why now: The perennial sun-fun destination is adding even more justifications to visit: this year marks the first Honolulu Biennial, a citywide celebration of visual creativity from across Hawaii and other Pacific cultures.

Tip: Travel + Leisure recommends staying at the artsy new Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club, which was decorated in partnership with a variety of local creators.

Start here: gohawaii.com

Culture: Havana

When: Now through the end of May

Why now: Recently eased travel restrictions, new airline routes and the spread of services like Airbnb are making it easier to experience Old Havana.

Tip: To save money and get a more authentic experience, travel blogger Matthew Karsten recommends foregoing hotels in favor of casa particulars, Cuba’s take on homestays.

Start here: cu.usembassy.gov

Exotic: Rainbow Mountains, Peru

When: April through May

Why now: Peru is becoming easier than ever to access thanks to new developments like an airport in the coastal town of Pisco. Head there for an aerial tour of Peru’s mysterious Nazca Lines and a taste of the town’s namesake brandy, then trek back to Cusco before tackling the majestic (and highly Instagrammable) Rainbow Mountains.

Tip: The heartiest adventurers will want to consider a six-day trek through the Vilcanota mountain range.

Start here: peru.travel/en-us

Road Trip: Death Valley National Park, California

When: From early April to early May

Why now: Visit when temperatures are warm but not yet unbearable. The park’s picturesque Badwater Road offers a front seat to Death Valley’s glorious spring wildflower show.

Tip: Dante’s View and Zabriskie Point, according to park staff, are best bets for watching a magnificent sunset.

Start here: nps.gov/deva

Skiing: Banff National Park, Canada

When: Now through the end of March

Why now: A favorable exchange rate and free admission throughout 2017 (in honor of Canada’s 150th birthday) make this an ideal time to enjoy some of the best skiing and lodge lounging in the world.

Tip: Be sure to catch a lift on the Banff Gondola, an eight-minute vista-rich ride.

Start here: banfflakelouise.com

Sunshine: U.S. Virgin Islands

When: March through April

Why now: This year marks the 100th anniversary of Transfer Day, when Denmark sold the islands to the U.S. for $25 million. In celebration, the Department of Tourism is giving travelers who spend at least three nights there a $300 voucher for tours and other activities.

Tip: Three islands, three distinct experiences: consider St. Thomas for a bustling resort scene, St. John for outdoor adventures and St. Croix for cuisine.

Start here: visitusvi.com