The 50 Best U.S. Winter Vacations

Why go: If it’s not cold enough in the U.S., Canada’s got you covered—and Ottawa is a five-hour (or less) drive from Rochester, NY, Albany, NY, and Burlington, VT (not to mention a short flight from plenty of other cities). The capital city is famous for ice skating on the Rideau Canal from December through February. It’s actually the world’s largest skating rink, according to the Guinness World Records. The 7.8-kilometer skateway, which draws over a million visitors each winter, covers the canal in front of the European-esque parliament buildings and the regal Chateau Laurier hotel. 

Where to stay: Post up in one of the 200 modern rooms at the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, in the trendy commercial district, where you’ll be in walking distance of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. 

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