Denver is the place to be if you’re seeking out the cream of the crop of top medical facilities. There are three nationally ranked hospitals in Denver, with several more ranking high in performance. Working at a top hospital is sure to boost your resume, broaden your skillset and present opportunities for improvement.

When you’re not working, there are endless opportunities for winter fun. We recommend visiting one of the top five botanic gardens in the nation—the Denver Botanic Gardens. This oasis in the city features art and countless exhibits sure to appease nature enthusiasts. The Denver Botanic Gardens are especially stunning during their winter Blossoms of Light event. Over one million lights drape the garden for a true holiday extravaganza.

In addition, this winter there are several free tours and events at some of the greatest museums and parks Denver has to offer. Check them out at Denver.org.

Of course, we can’t forget about all the great winter activities at nearby ski resorts. Loveland Ski Area is just 50 miles west of the city and averages over 400 inches of snow annually. Snowboarders and skiers flock to Loveland for breath-taking views, diverse terrain and the second highest chair lift in the world.

2. Dayton, OH

Dayton, Ohio is jam-packed with can’t-miss winter events. While the city is certainly chilly this time of year, there are tons of breweries that are sure to warm you up. Beer enthusiasts flock to Dayton for its great craft beer scene. Whether you like lagers, stouts or pilsners, you can check out five different breweries in a one-mile stretch. Cheers to that!

If beer isn’t your thing, get your education on and check out the variety of museums and historic monuments Dayton has to offer. Trip Advisor ranks the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force the No. 1 attraction in the “Birthplace of Aviation.” If you’re feeling artsy, check out the 98-year-old Dayton Art Institute which contains pieces from all over the world. And for a spooky thrill, check out the resting place of famous Daytonians at the Woodland Cemetery & Arboretum. We hear their History, Mystery, Mayhem & Murder Tour is to die for.

The hospital industry in Dayton is booming and there is no shortage of great facilities. The Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association reports the hospital industry provides nearly a $6.8 billion economic impact to greater Dayton area. Nurses are sure to sharpen their skills at whatever medical facility they may be placed at.

3. New York, New York

Silver bells, silver bells, it’s Christmas time in the city…

New York City is a fabulous place to visit year-round, but is particularly beautiful during the holiday season. Lights are wrapped around seemingly every light pole and tree, adding to the city’s already dazzling allure. It’s impossible to not get into the holiday spirit while walking down Times Square at night. In between shifts, check out the Rockefeller Center to gaze up at their enormous tree, or grab a bench with a cup of coffee for some top-notch people-watching.

During the winter months, ice skating is a popular activity of choice for both tourists and locals. There are several ice-skating rinks with picturesque backdrops of the city. One of the top rinks is the Bank of America Winter Village at the Bryant Park Winter Village. Never ice-skated before? Not to worry. This rink offers private and group lessons and even have guards on-hand to help up those who may fall on the frozen ground.

New York City is also the perfect time to experience new cultures. Specifically, head to Chinatown for the Chinese New Year which falls on February 16th, 2018. This must-see holiday features the traditional lion dance, a vibrant parade and a firecracker ceremony. And don’t forget about all the authentic and traditional food from local restaurants and vendors.

4. Modesto, CA

Italian for “modest,” Modesto is perfect if you’re interested in a smaller, quaint, suburban town with pleasant weather. You will rarely see Modesto drop below 38 degrees, and there is an average of 260 sunny days a year.

Located in California’s Central Valley, bigger cities like Fresno, Sacramento, San Francisco and landmarks like Yosemite National Park are all options for short day trips. Modesto’s central location gives you access the best of both worlds.

One of Modesto’s claims-to-fame is the McHenry Mansion. This historic house museum is located in historic downtown Modesto and was built in 1833, making it the city’s only original Victorian home. The mansion offers free tours to hundreds of people a day. After your tour, hop across the street to the McHenry Museum for more tidbits of Modesto’s history.

Additionally, don’t forget to take a picture in front of the Modesto Arch. The cities motto, “Water Wealth Contentment Health,” is proudly displayed on the landmark.

5. The Big Island, Hawaii

Although Hawaii may seem like a sought-after summer travel assignment, the unique qualities Hawaii has to offer in the winter will surprise you.

The Hawaiian scenery alone should make you want to hop on the next flight out west. The beach in the winter provides breathtaking sights. Ocean waves reach up to 20 feet high and humpback whale watching season is in it’s prime. Tropical flowers are always blooming, and the average daytime winter temperature in Hawaii is 78 degrees. Need we say more?

With great weather year-round, there is an unlimited number of Hawaiian activities to partake in. From snorkeling in the bay, to trying local food, to sunset walks on the beach, you will rarely be bored on your off days. We imagine it will be pretty difficult to leave this gorgeous island once your assignment is up.

There is no better time than winter to plan your next getaway. Experience a new city during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Take in new cultures and history in a large, or small, town. Sharpen your skills at a top-ranked medical facility. Or, avoid the cold all together and travel to Modesto or Hawaii. There are a variety of options out there to match any nurses’ travel preferences. Pack your bags and get moving this winter!