This Small City Was Just Named the Best U.S. Destination for Snowbirds

Snow storms and frigid temperatures have rocked the United States this winter, so it’s no surprise many people are looking for a much-needed warm weather getaway. And it turns out, one Arizona city is the perfect destination for snowbirds.

The city of Quartzsite, Arizona, earned the title of “Snowbirding City, USA” thanks to its “wide-open… land, endless rigs, and a community built entirely around people who live life on wheels,” according to a report from RVTrader that was shared with Travel + Leisure. Sitting off the beaten path, nearly two hours west of Phoenix, the city is a low-key destination for snowbirds seeking relaxation and outdoor activities, and boasts cheap or free camping and great community energy.

“Snowbirding is not just a travel pattern. It is a seasonal migration that feels uniquely American,” RVTrader wrote in its report. “It’s freedom, open road, self-reliance, and community all rolled into one long drive toward warmer weather.”

The city of Quartzsite, which is located at the intersection of Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 95, features winter temperatures in the 70s along with hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking, and more, according to Visit Arizona. There’s also the area’s gem and mineral show, which boasts thousands of vendors showcasing rocks, gems, minerals, jewelry, and more.

“The winter season is ‘go time’ in this Arizona-California border town,” Visit Arizona wrote, adding “people flock to Quartzsite from colder climates to relish in the warm weather and fascinating shopping.”

It’s also home to “the largest gathering of RVers in the world,” according to RVTrader, featuring vendors, gearheads, retirees, and more.

The fellow Arizona city of Yuma was named as an honorable mention on RVTrader’s list, recognized as a long-time snowbird favorite known for its easy access to services like medical care and shopping along with “well-established, well-run” RV parks. Yuma also happens to hold the Guinness World Records title for having the most sunshine in the United States with an annual average of 91 percent of possible hours having sunshine, according to the record-keeping group.

In addition to endless sunshine, Yuma offers a variety of activities for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and leisure travelers, according to the local tourism department, from kayaking to tubing, hiking, birding, golf, and more.

Another honorable mention went to the city of Winter Haven, Florida, which RVTrader said offers a “small-town feel” with RV parks that specifically cater to seasonal residents thanks to a robust social calendar and long-term rates.