Avoid winter doldrums with a quick flight from GSP to these fun destinations
For better or worse, the holidays are over. January is certainly a good month for hunkering down at home—personally I’m here for the hygge vibes—but if five weekends of good reads and cozy blankets sound like a bit much, there’s a flight for you. Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport has a surprising lineup of direct flights to destinations across the country at prices that don’t break the bank.
Direct Flights from GSP
Denver, Colorado / DEN via United
Combine big city delights (foodie nooks, pro-sporting events, fine arts, and good parks) with outdoor winter adventure on a Denver weekend getaway. World-celebrated skiing is a short drive or Amtrak ride away—Echo Mountain is the closest—or opt for a snowshoe or cross-country ski adventure at Brainard Lake Recreation Area for sweeping views of the Continental Divide. January also happens to be National Western Stock Show time, so catch some mutton bustin’ at this annual livestock show and festival.
Roundtrip flights as low as $249.
Miami, Florida / MIA via American
Whether you’re a warm-weather chaser or crave those classy Art Deco vibes, Miami is where you want to be. An entire day at South Beach would not be wasted—sunbathe, shop, and snack along Ocean Drive, and ogle the Art Deco Historic District—but all of Miami Beach is yours to explore via the spacious Beachwalk. Check out Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, grab something tasty in Little Havana, and if you want the full art experience, the Miami Design District is where it’s at. Don’t miss Art Deco Weekend January 9–11.
Roundtrip flights as low as $295
Nashville, Tennessee / BNA via Southwest
One can’t deny Nashville’s rise as a top cultural destination, and it’s not just the music. The city is now synonymous with food and fashion, sporting a chef-driven restaurant scene and style hot spots. A January trip means fewer crowds and easier bookings at foodie go-tos (try Sean Brock’s Sho Pizza Bar or Julia Sullivan’s Henrietta Red). Shop indie boutiques in the 12 South neighborhood, but don’t miss the music—Mavis Staples is at the Ryman on January 24.
Roundtrip flights as low as $366
Sarasota, Florida / SRQ via Allegiant
It’s 70 degrees in Sarasota, so let’s go. January (peak manatee season and fewer bugs) just happens to be the best time to experience the excellent outdoor experiences at this Gulf-side city. Try your hand at parasailing and see a dolphin or two at Siesta Key; or spot a manatee via kayak tour at South Lido Mangrove Tunnels or Jim Neville Marine Preserve. For contained flora and fauna, head to Sarasota Jungle Gardens and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens—and save time for the city’s good food, too (check out Walt’s Fish Market or Owens Fish Camp).
Flights Thursdays & Sundays, roundtrip with carry-on as low as $138
Washington, DC / DCA via American & IAD via United
Winter means indoor attractions, and DC’s museum lineup is vast. If you’ve never taken the plunge (or just want a refresh), head to the Capitol for world-class history, art, and more. Of course, there are must-sees like the National Portrait Gallery and International Spy Museum, but don’t skip lesser-known delights like The Phillips Collection and Planet Word (try the Lexicon Lane word-sleuth puzzle). A stay in the Shaw or Dupont Circle neighborhoods allows easy access to attractions and the Metro, and for a good bite, Pearl’s Bagels is a must.
Roundtrip flights as low as $189
Breeze Airways, which joined the GSP lineup last year, offers a seasonal direct flight from GSP to LAX during peak travel season. Look for flight options later in the spring and summer.
