Austin Ranked Top Destination for Winter Travel
If the winter blues are setting in and you're already dreaming of an escape to sunnier skies, Austin may be the answer to your holiday prayers. The Lone Star capital recently ranked #1 on a new list from WalletHub, highlighting the year's best winter destinations for America's snowbirds.
The selection process compared nearly 70 of America's most populated cities, considering factors such as travel cost, local fees, weather, attractions and overall safety. Austin passed with flying colors, specifically in the categories of expense and low-hassle travel. Following close behind Austin were the neighboring Texan metros of Dallas Fort-Worth, Houston and San Antonio: ranking No. 4, No. 5 and No. 6, respectively.
For those who prefer mild mornings and rejuvenating afternoon warmth, Austin is truly a paradise. Winter temperatures rarely dip below 41 degrees Fahrenheit, with highs averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The winter months offer abundant sunshine and minimal rain, offering the perfect backdrop to enjoy Austin's parks, diverse shopping experiences and world-class live entertainment.
Assistant professor of hospitality and tourism management at Oklahoma State University is Stacy Tomas, who elaborated on the rankings in an interview with WalletHub, stating:
"The outlook for the winter travel season looks good. Drive-to destinations will still be preferred for most travelers. Traveling within your region is a great way to have a fun and relaxing trip while also saving time and money. It's also a great way to spend money locally, with small businesses which are the backbone of the travel industry."