The Best Ski Destinations - For People Who Hate Skiing
Enjoy après-ski—without the ski—at these top US ski resorts that even non-skiers will appreciate.
Skiers have all the fun: Planning vacations to winter-wonderland retreats, indulging in the decadent après-ski scene, and warming up by all the cozy fires you could ever wish for. But there’s good news—you don’t actually have to earn those rewards with a day on the slopes. Instead, go off-piste at these top ski destinations in the US, which also double as idyllic snowy getaways for travelers of all stripes. Whether ice-skating or snowshoeing is more your speed—or if you’re comfiest indoors, taking in art galleries, spas, and destination restaurants—here’s all the excuse you need to book that (non)ski trip this winter.
1. Lenox, Massachusetts
Located in the heart of the Berkshires, Lenox is a cultural and wellness haven. Known for its elegant, historic atmosphere, Lenox offers a luxurious escape with a focus on relaxation and well-being, making it an ideal destination for non-skiers.
What to Do: Stroll through the charming downtown, visit the Tanglewood Music Center for winter concerts, or tour The Mount, Edith Wharton’s historic home. For outdoor enthusiasts, try snowshoeing at Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary or ice skating on a nearby frozen pond. Don’t miss the region's antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
Where to Eat: Enjoy an elegant meal at Nudel, known for its locally sourced and creative dishes, or cozy up with a fireside dinner at The Old Inn on the Green.
Where to Stay: Stay at Miraval Berkshires, a luxurious wellness retreat offering holistic spa treatments, yoga, meditation, and winter hiking in a serene, natural setting. The property is part of the Virtuoso network, promising a truly elite experience.
2. Stowe, Vermont
For non-skiers, small but quaint Stowe has plenty to offer off the slopes. Charming Stowe offers the classic ski trip experience on a smaller, friendlier scale—its resident mountain, Mt. Mansfield, is the highest in the Green Mountain State at 4,395 feet (1,340 meters).
What to Do: Ice skate at the Stowe Mountain Resort or try dog-sledding at Spruce Peak. Set aside time for exploring Stowe itself—the pretty village is home to independent boutiques, galleries, and museums like the Green Mountain Fine Art Gallery, the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, and a vibrant craft brewing scene. And even though it’s winter, don’t forget that the Ben & Jerry’s Factory is only a 20-minute drive out of town.
Where to Eat: Warm up with hearty New England fare at Doc Ponds, or visit The Alchemist brewery, the birthplace of the New England IPA style.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak offers slope-side luxury with a spa, heated pool, and stunning mountain views. Alternatively, opt for Topnotch Resort, a Tablet Hotels favorite, known for its sophisticated spa and upscale farm-to-table dining.
3. Ellicottville, New York
Often called the “Aspen of the East,” Ellicottville is a charming village nestled in Western New York’s rolling hills. It’s an ideal winter destination for those looking to experience a cozy small-town vibe with a lively après-ski scene.
What to Do: Ellicottville is all about small-town charm. Take a stroll through its picturesque streets lined with independently-owned boutiques, local wineries, and quirky shops. Explore Holiday Valley’s Sky High Adventure Park—open in winter for hiking and tree-top walks. You can also go tubing at the Holiday Valley Tubing Park for family-friendly fun.
Where to Eat: Stop by Ellicottville Brewing Company for craft beer and comfort food in a rustic setting, or indulge in a fine dining experience at Dina’s Restaurant, a local favorite known for its hearty, upscale meals.
Where to Stay: Stay at The Tamarack Club at Holiday Valley, featuring cozy suites, a heated pool, and a full-service spa. For a more intimate stay, consider a private cabin rental with stunning snowy views.
4. Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge offers a historic downtown with Victorian charm, ideal for those who prefer a cozy winter getaway to the rush of the slopes.
What to Do: Breckenridge is famous for its festive winter atmosphere—think holiday markets, ice sculpting festivals, and winter parades. Take a guided snowshoe tour on one of the area's many trails, or ride the Breckenridge Gondola for fantastic alpine views without the skis.
Where to Eat: Warm up with a craft cocktail at Breckenridge Distillery, the world’s highest-altitude distillery, or head to Hearthstone for a fireside meal in a Victorian-era home.
Where to Stay: Gravity Haus is a chic, eco-conscious hotel with fireside lounges and a Japanese-inspired onsen. For a more classic, luxurious stay, consider The Lodge at Breckenridge, which offers mountain vistas and cozy log-cabin style decor.
5. Aspen, Colorado
The US' quintessential ski resort has a top-notch après-ski scene, as you might expect. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen comprises four different ski areas (Aspen, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, and Aspen Snowmass) which together span over 5,500 acres—no wonder it’s one of the country’s top winter destinations for jetsetters. But for all the bounty of its slopes, Aspen has just as much to offer non-skiers.
What to Do: Stop for a dose of culture at the striking Aspen Art Museum, indulge in top-tier sushi at the Nobu-run Matsuhisa, and even take in an evening performance at the Wheeler Opera House, a beloved local landmark since 1889. For a special treat(ment), book a session at the Remède Spa at the St. Regis.
Where to Eat: Sip champagne at Ajax Tavern for a quintessential après-ski experience, or dine at Element 47 for an elegant night out.
Where to Stay: The St. Regis Aspen Resort is a top choice with luxe accommodations, a heated outdoor pool, and daily champagne sabering ceremonies. For something more charming, consider the Little Nell, which offers exceptional service and access to Aspen’s best dining.
6. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Known for its authentic Western charm, Steamboat Springs blends rugged adventure with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
What to Do: Visit the famous Strawberry Park Hot Springs to soak in geothermal pools under a blanket of snow, or try fat biking on the resort’s snowy trails. The annual Winter Carnival is a local highlight, featuring snow tubing, a night parade, and fireworks.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a refined meal at Aurum Food & Wine with scenic river views, or kick back with a local beer at Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill for a taste of the town's laid-back vibe.
Where to Stay: Choose The Steamboat Grand for classic Western luxury with spacious rooms and access to ski village amenities. For a more intimate experience, opt for a cozy mountain cabin.
7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Skip the skiing in this classic winter activity region for some national park–hopping instead. Jackson Hole is known for its vertiginous, expert-level ski slopes—but that’s certainly not the only option in this great Western getaway.
What to Do: Book a dog-sledding adventure, go snowmobiling in the shadow of the Grand Tetons, or even plan a national park excursion: both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, as well as the National Elk Refuge, are a quick drive away, making it easy to plan an immersive day trip. After your outdoorsy adventures, wind down with a shopping trip to Teton Village or Jackson’s Town Square.
Where to Eat: Head to The Handle Bar at the Four Seasons for comforting mountain cuisine or reserve a table at Snake River Grill for a more refined experience.
Where to Stay: Stay at Amangani, a luxury resort perched high above the valley with unbeatable views, a stunning spa, and a heated outdoor pool overlooking the Tetons. Consider the Four Seasons or the Cloudveil, a stylish option in Jackson’s town square.
8. Park City, Utah
This top-rated US ski resort has plenty for non-skiers to enjoy. Park City, nestled among the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, is host to Olympics-approved slopes and primo powder—but skiing is far from a prerequisite.
What to Do: Ride the Mountain Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort, or go on a sleigh ride like no other when you’re towed up a mountainside by the Viking Yurt snowcat. For culture, visit during the Sundance Film Festival or explore the local art galleries year-round.
Where to Eat: Savor a gourmet meal at Riverhorse on Main, known for its creative American cuisine and cozy ambiance, or indulge in award-winning dishes at the High West Distillery, which combines whiskey tasting with refined comfort food.
Where to Stay: Relax at the Stein Eriksen Lodge, a luxe mountain resort known for its award-winning spa, fireside dining, and heated outdoor pool with mountain views.
9. Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley might be among the oldest ski resorts in the US but you don’t have to ski. Billed as “America’s first ski resort,” Sun Valley has drawn winter sports enthusiasts since 1936 (as has its frequently cloudless weather, as its name suggests).
What to Do: Lace up a pair of skates at the Christina Potters Ice Rink in Atkinson Park, or head to the Nordic and Snowshoe Center, which offers 25 miles (40 kilometers) of groomed trails. Explore downtown Ketchum’s galleries and boutiques for a taste of the region's artsy side.
Where to Eat: Visit Michel’s Christiania for a fine-dining experience with a rustic touch or enjoy mountain-inspired fare at The Ram restaurant.
Where to Stay: Check in to the Sun Valley Lodge, a historic property with chic, modern rooms, a heated pool, and a spa that’s perfect for a post-snowshoeing unwind.
10. Crystal Mountain, Washington
Though it’s only a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Crystal Mountain feels a world away from the big city—located within the dramatic, craggy landscapes of the Cascades, it’s next-door neighbors with the iconic Mt. Rainier.
What to Do: Upgrade from the resort’s ski lift and take the Mt. Rainier Gondola for unparalleled views of the slumbering volcano’s snowy peak. Then, cap off the experience with a gourmet meal at the Summit House (officially the highest-elevation restaurant in Washington State at 6,872 feet, or 2,095 meters). Snowshoeing is another resort activity for non-skiers, and you can choose from multiple trails to fit your experience levels.
Where to Eat: Dine at the Summit House for a gourmet meal with views of Mt. Rainier, or grab a casual bite at The Snorting Elk Cellar for local brews and pub fare.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Crystal Mountain Hotels for a convenient base camp, or opt for a more luxurious stay in nearby Greenwater at a mountain cabin with a private hot tub.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy cabin escape, eager to explore charming small towns, or want to experience the thrill of winter without touching a ski, these destinations prove that snowy getaways are for everyone. Let Acera Travel handle the logistics—ensuring exclusive access to top-tier accommodations, personalized winter experiences, and insider tips—so you can focus on enjoying the perfect winter wonderland.