Winter is a fantastic time of year to take a romantic getaway. See some snow and get away from the crowds at some of these popular destinations.

The Smoky Mountains

Sevierville’s Winterfest is going on until February 29, where you can see thousands of lights. This is a good time of year for affordable cabin rentals with a mountain view. Many of the attractions are open during this slow season. Wonderworks, the upside down house, is a fun, educational experience for all ages. I had to drag my kids out of there when we last visited. Rainforest Adventures is also open. Don’t forget to visit the Smoky Mountains, which always has FREE admission. www.visitsevierville.com

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone has some fantastic packages available, including winter wildlife expeditions, snowmobile tours, and so much more. Ski tours are available. The Winter Wolf Discovery is magical. I was fortunate enough to see the wolves in their habitat one summer. It was just amazing. Yellowstone has lodging packages available starting at $109 per person. I recommend taking a snow coach tour through the park. www.travelyellowstone.com

Taos, NM

Many people visit Park City, UT, Steamboat Springs, CO, and other popular ski destinations. What they don’t know is, the new place to visit is Taos, NM. Taos Ski Valley has some of the least crowded slopes. The area is also popular with celebrities. If you don’t know how to ski, don’t worry. Taos Ski Valley offers afternoon tubing for only $7. www.skitaos.org

I recently stayed at El Monte Segrado Resort and Spa in Taos, which offers winter specials during this time of year. It was so nice to sit in front of my in-room fireplace after a adventurous day and a relaxing massage. www.elmontesagrado.com

Moab, UT

I have visited Moab in both the summer and the winter. It was like visiting a different place each time. Arches National Park looked like a red velvet cake topped with powdered sugar. It really was magical. Some of the high-end resorts offer affordable packages during this time of year. www.discovermoab.com

Other places to visit during the winter:

Orlando

The winter is a perfect time of year to visit the amusement parks without all the crowds. Disney calls this its Value Season. www.orlandoinfo.com

Hawaii

The weather is always so nice in Hawaii. With numerous islands to choose from, you are bound to find a deal.

Mexico

Cancun, Cozumel, and Cabo all offer warm alternatives to the winter weather.