Getty Images / Irina Velichkina
Halloween is upon us, and I truly love this time of year. I think the fall is a general favorite time of year, as many of my friends and family say autumn is their favorite season. Halloween is almost here. If you're going to be involved with trick-or-treating at all, you're going to want to know about the weather. So, what will Florida weather be like on Halloween? What's more, will we get any rain and have to protect those lovely costumes?
Brian Brettschneider, an Alaska-based climatologist, has put together a map looking at the historical probability of getting snow on Halloween. Of course, Florida isn't in here. But, if you're curious, here's where the white stuff could be on Halloween. To count as snow, there has to be a minimum of 1 inch of snow on the ground on the morning of Oct. 31 or falling snow must accumulate to at least 0.1 inches on Halloween during the day. Also, he based the map on historical weather data averaged over many years. According to this general map, the highest chance of seeing snow on Halloween happens in the higher elevations of the northern and central Rockies, with anywhere from a 25% to 50% chance of the white stuff. Moreover, areas of the Washington and Oregon Cascades, northern Plains, northern Minnesota and the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan also have 10% to 25% odds of getting snow on Christmas.
Here's the official prediction for Florida. According to Weather.com, it's going to be pretty awesome. In Tampa, the forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with a high of 88 and a low of 66. For Fort Myers, it's similar, with partly cloudy skies and a high of 86 with a low of 69. Now, rain is expected on Monday and Wednesday, so it looks like Halloween will just miss that precipitation. Or, there's always a chance the forecast will shift and we'll get Halloween rain. But, let's hope that doesn't happen.
It's never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don't have to travel during the holidays, just don't, because it's a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.? Florida has one of them.
I've researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.
I'm a Michigan girl, so I'm very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I'm going to escape, even if it's just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it's fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it's not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What's your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.
Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
5. Savannah, Georgia
If you're looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It's pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it's less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it's still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it's won't be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.
2. Traverse City, Michigan
I know what you're thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it's worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it's big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It's also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.
1. Key West, Florida
If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It's considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?
