places to visit in december outside us

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20 Best Places To Travel Outside The US (even on a tight budget!)

Looking for inspiration about where to travel outside the US? We've compiled a list of 20 amazing places, some of which can even be explored on a tight budget!

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Aug 04, 2023

Traveling is a dream of many, and there are numerous incredible places to travel outside the US and around the world !

If you’re from the USA , you may be ready to venture beyond the borders and explore a new country. The USA is huge, and you could easily spend a lifetime exploring all the unique destinations within the nation.

But traveling abroad is an experience like no other. Seeing new landscapes, meeting interesting people, and embracing different cultures is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have!

If you’re looking for the best places to travel outside the US, even if you don’t have a lot of money to spend, this article will provide a brief overview of some amazing destinations you can visit.

A great way to travel abroad is by trying a work exchange , where you can work for your accommodation . This allows you to save money while traveling, and you also get to meet locals and develop a deeper connection with the culture. We will provide links to some cool Worldpackers work exchanges that you can try while traveling abroad !

Bucket List: Best Places To Travel Outside The US

Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in the world is Paris , the capital city of France . This cosmopolitan city is brimming with excitement and iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and many more.  Volunteer in a hostel in Paris to save money during your stay!

Another one of the most incredible places to travel outside the US is Tokyo . This modern metropolis in Japan is home to gorgeous temples and historic landmarks as well as towering skyscrapers and neon lights. Tokyo blends Japan’s authentic cultures and traditions with the glitz and glamour of the modern world.

Great Barrier Reef

The world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, is located off the tropical northeast coast of Australia . Snorkeling or scuba diving amongst the colorful marine life is on many travelers’ lists of bucket list ideas! Australia is not a cheap country to visit, so consider a homestay in Cairns if you want to travel on a budget!

Another location that tops the bucket list of many nature lovers is Patagonia. Not to be confused with the clothing brand, the region of Patagonia refers to the southern tip of both Chile and Argentina. Travelers flock here to hike, camp, and explore in one of the world’s most wild, rugged, and breathtaking regions . Get to know the locals by volunteering on a farm in Chile or a homestay in Argentina .

Rome is one of the top international vacation spots, and it's easy to see why. Packed with ancient landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, history buffs will have a blast exploring the city. And let's not forget about the food! Rome is a foodie's paradise with countless places to savor the best Italian cuisine. With its iconic sights, warm culture, and charming neighborhoods, Italy's capital city has something for everyone to enjoy.

Rio de Janeiro

Another one of the coolest places to visit outside the US is Rio de Janeiro . Travelers visit this beautiful Brazilian city to lounge on the beaches, hike in the mountains, and attend the vibrant festivals . Enjoy a more relaxed, authentic experience in Brazil by volunteering at an eco-village just outside the city.

Banff National Park

One of the best places to travel when you've never travelled outside of the US before is Canada ! This majestic nation is easy for Americans to visit because most people speak English and it’s not a far flight. Undoubtedly, the most incredible place to visit in Canada is Banff National Park. Known for its jagged Rocky Mountain peaks and shimmering sapphire lakes , you'll have an amazing time exploring one of the most scenic national parks in the world.

London, England , is one of the most visited destinations in the world . This vibrant city, much like Tokyo, blends modernity with history. Churches, markets, old-timey pubs, and neighborhoods showcase London's vital role in world history, while modern architecture, abundant entertainment, and a lively nightlife scene make London a trendy and thrilling destination to visit!

Kruger National Park

If you’ve always dreamed of going on an African safari , Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the best places to visit. Known for being the only real wilderness left in South Africa, Kruger allows you to adventure through the landscape and spot all your favorite wild animals in real life. Take your experience to the next level by trying adventure guide and ranch work in Kruger with Worldpackers! 

The Maldives

Last on this section of bucket list places to travel outside the US is the Maldives! This idyllic archipelago of islands in the Indian Ocean graces the covers of many travel magazines. With white sand beaches, tropical bungalows, and turquoise waters , nothing says “paradise” like the Maldives!

Cheap Places To Travel Outside The US

Machu picchu.

If you’re looking for cheap places to travel outside the US, Peru is a great option! With delicious food, friendly locals, cheap prices, beautiful nature, and the world-famous Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, there is no better place to explore history and culture than Peru . Save money during your trip to Peru by helping with SEO and social media at a guest house in Cusco, the closest major city to Machu Picchu.

Thailand is another country on the bucket list of many, and Bangkok is a highlight of this warm, welcoming country. Full of glittering temples, bustling food markets, and enticing nightlife , Bangkok is one of the cheapest and most desirable cities to visit in Thailand . Spend more time in this fabulous city by working as a receptionist in a hostel in the Old Town!

Another one of the best places to travel outside the US is Tulum . Situated on Mexico's Caribbean coastline, this tropical town attracts travelers from around the world with its affordable prices, flavorful food, lush scenery, and historic landmarks . There are lots of epic work exchanges in Mexico if you want to immerse yourself in the culture and get to know the locals!

Colombia is also one of the best cheap travel destinations in the world, and it’s a quick and easy flight from the USA! One of Colombia’s biggest cities is Cartagena, a charming metropolis located on the Caribbean Sea. With intricate colonial buildings and gorgeous islands and reefs located right off the coast, there is so much to see and do here.

Another one of the best cheap places to travel outside the US is Siem Reap, Cambodia . Though this small city is most famous for its ancient Khmer temples, including the picturesque Angkor Wat, the town has much more to offer as well. With happy, smiling locals, spicy street food, and colorful markets, Siem Reap is a lovely place to visit. Give back to the local community by teaching English at a non profit school here !

Bali is one of the most iconic places to visit in Asia . This tropical tourist island has everything you could want in a vacation spot: breathtaking beaches, incredible hikes, historic landmarks, street markets, and an abundance of amenities and places to stay on a budget . 

One of the lesser-known but still cool places to visit in Europe is Kotor, Montenegro . Located on the dazzling blue waters of the Bay of Kotor, the small city of Kotor is incredibly scenic . It’s also affordable! Try something new by volunteering at a free-range goat farm just outside the city!

Dominican Republic

Another stunning vacation destination is the Dominican Republic . The diverse natural landscape and enticing culture draw in US travelers constantly, and this Caribbean island is also very affordable to visit. Explore national parks, beaches, rainforests, and historic towns while visiting this lush nation, and make your stay even more heartwarming by volunteering at an animal shelter !

Ha Long Bay

Vietnam is also an excellent destination if you’re looking for cheap places to travel outside the US. One of the most affordable countries in Asia, Vietnam is known for its dramatic scenery, its flavorful street food, and its rich culture. Ha Long Bay is one of the most iconic places in Vietnam! Few travelers visit this country without doing a boat tour through the emerald waters and limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay.

Last but not least on our list of cheap travel destinations is Sri Lanka . This tropical island nation, located off the southern coast of India, is both beautiful and affordable . Get ready to have a blast with activities like surfing, sightseeing, and exploring the mesmerizing beaches and forests. Don't forget to marvel at the incredible architecture and immerse yourself in the local culture of this idyllic country!

• Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified.

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

By Caitlin Morton

When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

​​Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

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15 Best Places to Travel in December in the USA & Abroad

Are you looking for the best places to travel in December in the USA and abroad? There are so many opportunities to celebrate the holiday season. From Christmas market shopping, to holiday festivals, to epic outdoor activities, the world is truly your oyster for cool places to visit in December.

Travel in December is the best time of year for many destinations. In some cases, the crowds will be thinner. Either way, with so many choices, you may even find a new holiday tradition.

The Best Places to Travel in December in the USA

Sedona, Arizona

Christmas in Sedona is one of the best times of year to visit. There’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful red rock country.

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village hosts multiple holiday events. The Christmas tree lighting kicks off the season.

The Festival of Lights takes place the following week and features over 6,000 luminarias. It’s truly a sight to behold. Both events have a visit from Santa, live entertainment and lots of holiday fun.

And of course, no visit to Sedona would be complete without taking a Red Rocks Jeep Tour or going for a variety of hikes.

Devil’s Bridge is an easy hike with lots of bang for your buck. The weather in December is perfect for getting outside, especially with a touch of snow.

Whether you go for a hike, meander through galleries, do some shopping, get a massage or see an energy healer, you may notice that you feel great in Sedona.

Some say it’s the Sedona Vortex . Others attribute it to the fresh air and physical activity but everyone agrees that Sedona is the perfect place to visit in December!

HOTEL : Enchantment Resort

Palm Desert, California

The big reason to head to the desert in December is for sunny days in the 70s and beautiful blue skies. Lay by the pool, play a round of golf or take a hike and get busy relaxing.

If you want to get into the holiday spirit, Wildlights at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is an illuminated journey around the zoo.

In the first week of December, the Festival of Lights Parade down Palm Canyon Drive is a blast. The McCallum Theater also has quite a few holiday shows.

Want to see some snow? Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for amazing views and you might just find snow at the top. Or try the scenic Palms to Pines Highway. It’s a 67 mile route that will take your from deserts to forests and snow capped mountains.

For holiday shopping, try Palm Canyon Drive or the upscale shopping at Palm Desert’s El Paseo. You’ll also find galleries and plenty of places to go out at night.

LaQuinta, another golf and tennis favorite, has a farmer’s market and shopping in Old Town.

There are some great day trips to enjoy in the area. Joshua Tree National Park has stunning landscapes, hiking and rock climbing.

The Salton Sea is one of the largest lakes in California. It’s not the type of place to get out in the water but you can check out weirdly artsy and deserted Bombay Beach or head to Salvation Mountain.

HOTEL : Dive Palm Springs or one of the Best Hotels in Palm Springs

RELATED POST: 15 Best Places to Visit in California in December

Asheville, North Carolina

The whole town of Asheville is full of Christmas spirit but the biggest draw to Asheville in winter is a visit to the Biltmore Estate .

You’ll find carolers, horse drawn sleighs, and the mansion decorated with more than 50 Christmas trees and 30,000 ornaments. The largest private home in the United States has been hosting holiday visitors since 1895.

Downtown Asheville has amazing Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum , Historic Biltmore Village and Pack Square Park. It’s also a great place for unique holiday shopping.

Gingerbread house aficionados should stop by the Omni Grove Park, home of the National Gingerbread House Competition . While the winners are announced in November, all the entries are on display for the whole holiday season.

Outdoor enthusiasts can take a snowy winter hike to the frozen waterfall at Looking Glass Falls or catch a Blue Ridge Mountains sunrise. It’s one of the best things to do in Asheville for nature lovers .

If you have the kids in tow, take the Craggy Mountain Trolley for a visit with Santa or get some mini goat time at the Appalachian Santa and Highlands Experience.

HOTEL : The Inn On Biltmore Estate

RELATED POST: 60 Bucket List USA Trips to Take Now

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington is best known for being an alpine village straight out of a Bavarian fairytale. Complete with charming Bavarian buildings, yummy German food, and cute shops, you’ll feel like you’re in Europe.

The best part about this alpine village in winter is undoubtedly the Christmas lighting festival. Every year, over half a million lights are used to decorate the buildings and trees in the town center.

Take a sleigh ride or stroll through town at night to enjoy it. Also visit Christkindlmarkt to do some Christmas shopping with its selection of German-imported gifts and decorations.

Washington is one of the most beautiful states in the USA . In Leavenworth, you’ll be able to enjoy all the outdoor fun from ice skating to nordic skiing to snowmobiling and sledding.

There are trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking, or if you are feel very adventurous, try ice climbing, Don’t forget to stop by the Levenworth reindeer farm !

With all these festive activities, it’s no wonder Leavenworth is one of the best places to visit in December in the USA.

HOTEL : PostHotel Leavenworth

New York, New York

New York City has always been on the list of the best places to travel in December in the USA because there are so many things to do in NYC at Christmas . The city comes alive with festive lights and impressive 5th Avenue shopping windows.

Do the holiday favorites – see the Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Center, the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes, go skating Central Park skating, swim in the Poolcuzzi at the TWA Hotel , and the NYE Ball Drop in Times Square.

The art scene is thriving during the holiday season with special light installations like the New York Botanical Garden Glow or the Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Manhattan Skyline tours are also fun during the holidays.

At the Chelsea Art Center, Spectacular Factory: The Holiday Multiverse is an immersive art experience.

And what used to be home of Fall Fashion Week is now the setting of a world-class Christmas market.

Bryant Park transforms itself every holiday season into a Winter Village complete with a skating rink. The European style open-air market has vendors selling everything from exquisite jewelry to food to handcrafted wares from all across the globe.

HOTEL : 1 Hotel Central Park

Key West, Florida

If you’re looking for great winter weather, you’ll find it in the southernmost part of the continental US. Drive down from Miami or fly straight to Key West.

In December, Key West is downright festive. From the Historic Inn Tour to the Lighted Boat Parade to the historic homes decked out for a coastal Christmas, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do.

A great way to see all the amazing holiday decorations in town is to take the Christmas Light Trolley Tour . The I Love Stock Island Festival is another fun event with live music, food trucks, local artisans, and more!

After a busy day shopping or snorkeling the clear blue waters around Key West, visit Mallory Square at sunset for food, drink and entertainment. Another memorable option is a sunset cruise. Either way, make sure to indulge in a slice of Key Lime Pie.

Make sure to visit Dry Tortuga National Park located about 10 miles offshore from Key West. It’s accessible by boat or ferry and a great place to go hiking, bird watching, or just to enjoy the beautiful views.

America the Beautiful Pass Holders can get in free.

Or for something a little different, take a day trip to Islamorada and enjoy some of the best fishing in the country. With so much to see and do, Key West is the perfect place to spend your Christmas vacation.

HOTEL : Kimpton Lighthouse Hotel

Miami, Florida

If you find yourself in the Sunshine State in December there are plenty of festive activities to keep you entertained. From Christmas theme parks to botanical gardens illuminated in holiday lights, there’s something for everyone.

Get into the holiday spirit at Santa’s Enchanted Forest , a Christmas-themed amusement park that features over 100 rides, shows, games, and attractions.

The Night Garden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens is another magical place during the holidays where 23-acres of gardens are transformed into a fairyland with over 1 million lights illuminating the way.

Art lovers should experience Miami’s hidden gems in the Wynwood Art District known for murals and graffiti art. A performance of The Nutcracker by the Miami City Ballet, one of the world’s foremost dance companies, is another top choice.

South Beach is one of Miami’s most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. Its Art Deco district is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the city and the gorgeous beaches are the perfect place to get your winter tan.

So put on your Santa hat and enjoy all that this sunny city has to offer or add on a one hour flight to the Bahamas or Cuba for even more fun.

HOTEL : 1 Hotel South Beach

Puerto Rico

If you’re looking for a festive and tropical destination to celebrate the holidays, look no further than Puerto Rico. This US territory, located in the Caribbean Sea, is known for its sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. 

In December, the island comes alive with holiday celebrations. One of the best places to experience the festivities is Old San Juan.

This historic district is full of Spanish colonial architecture, quaint cafes, lively nightclubs and holiday lights. Don’t miss El Morro, the almost 500 year old fort and the holiday boat parade in the San Juan Harbor. 

Other unique holiday experiences include the Festival del Petate in Sabana Grande and the Hatillo Masks Festival. During this event, participants dress up in hand-crafted masks and parade through the streets.

For great day trips, hike to Juan Diego Falls in El Yunque, the island’s stunning rainforest or take a boat to Vieques, an uninhabited island off the coast of Puerto Rico.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder Puerto Rico is one of the best places to visit in December.

HOTEL : Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The Best Places to Travel in December Abroad

Strasbourg, France

Christmas markets throughout the Alsace region have made Strasbourg, France one of the best places to travel in December. Strasbourg is one of the European Union’s oldest holiday markets that first opened in 1570.

With 300 stalls, you can spend several days here perusing everything, and come home with some fantastic gifts. Delight in Place Kleber , where you will find the Great Christmas Tree. Drink the local Alsatian wine and indulge in all the festivities.

This beautiful Christmas town is located in picturesque eastern France, right next to the German border. It’s actually just one of the Fairytale Alsace Christmas Markets in France .

You can get to Strasbourg by flying into Paris and taking a train or better yet, renting a car. Then you can spend a few days exploring all the little villages, each with their own unique allure.

If you love the area, you might want to try Alsace in the summer too for a completely different experience.

HOTEL : Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile

Lyon, France

Set in the east-central part of the country,  Lyon  is considered one of the prettiest cities in France.

In December, the Fête des Lumières is a celebration that makes Lyon a bucket list destination. The city is shut down for 3 evenings, while 4 million visitors walk through the city streets marveling at amazing light installations.

You can also stroll through the Marché de Noël Lyon located in Place Carnot.

When visiting Lyon, stop by the districts of Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), the Presqu’île, and the slopes of the Croix-Rousse, which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

Lyon is well known for outstanding cuisine and gastronomy, making it the perfect destination for foodies. Make sure to taste Rosette lyonnaise and Saucisson de Lyon – they are to die for.

HOTEL: Hôtel de l’Abbaye

One of the best nature vacations and most unique places on Earth is Antarctica.

It’s a place where you can cross the Drake Passage, take the polar plunge, and go kayaking near humpback whales and icebergs. Where else on earth can you camp under the stars on a glacier and see the Milky Way!

Mid-December is the perfect time for a trip to Antarctica . You will get up to 20 hours of sunlight, with December 22 nd being the longest day. This is when the wildlife really comes out to play.

See thousands of penguins in Antarctica , seals and the occasional whale. You may even see a baby penguin or two, as this is prime penguin egg-hatching season.

Antarctica in December is an amazing place to visit. The weather is cold, but the landscapes are stunning. The wildlife is incredible and the experience is truly unforgettable.

If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, Antarctica is the place to go. If you’re booking at the last minute, many cruises will give you a significant discount.

Cruise : Quark Expeditions

Tasmania, Australia

December is one of the best months to visit Tasmania, just south of Melbourne off the coast of Australia. Its dry and warm summer climate is not as hot as the rest of Australia, making it perfect for hiking and scuba diving.

December is the perfect time to hike the Overland Track, the highly popular hiking trail that runs for approximately 65 kilometers and takes 5-6 days to complete.

The trail takes hikers through some of Tasmania’s most stunning scenery, including mountains, forests, and alpine meadows.

Take a drive from Hobart to Port Arthur , a coastal town set on the edge of a peninsula on the south side of the island, is a big draw.

Also from Hobart, you can do a Wilderness Cruise to Tasman Island to see seals, migrating whales and the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.

Or do a Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Bruny Island where you can see unique wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and platypus.

You’ll also tour the Historic Bruny Island Lighthouse, sample the local delicacies, and view the wild and beautiful landscapes.

Lastly, there are numerous festivals all around, such as The Falls Festival and Taste of Tasmania. If you are a wine drinker, there are plenty of wineries with which to plan an afternoon of wine tasting.

It’s best to base yourself in Hobart or Launceston , and explore the island from there. The MACq 01 Hotel (9.4) is a great choice on the Hobart waterfront.

December is an excellent time to visit Costa Rica as the dry season is in full swing and there are plenty of fun festivals and activities to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, be sure to check out the Festival de la Luz in San Jose, which features marching bands, floats and colourful light displays. Or catch the El Gran Tope Nacional , the most anticipated horse parade.

For a more traditional Costa Rican experience, head to the Zapote Festival , where you can watch bull riding (more like a rodeo) and enjoy the fairgrounds with rides, food and live music.

Nature lovers can explore the Arenal Volcano National National Park and experience the rush of ziplining in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Surfers can catch some waves on the Pacific side, while adventure seekers can go whitewater rafting or do a Guided Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall and Hot Springs .

And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find plenty to do in Costa Rica in December.

There’s nothing like celebrating the season pure vida style with a drink in your hand and delectable food every day.

HOTEL : Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

December is one of the best times and peak season to visit the Kingdom of Wonder. You can expect near perfect weather.

With thousands of temples, Angkor Wat Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see during sunrise for an unforgettable experience.

Cambodia is full of memorable things to do from walking with elephants at the Elephant Valley Project to taking a ride on the Battambang Bamboo Train , a fun and unusual way to see the countryside!

Bassac Lane in Phnom Penh is known for its numerous bars and nightclubs. The Phare Cambodian Circus, inspired by Cirque du Soleil, has talented orphans and underprivileged youth as its performers.

Don’t miss Koh Rong, an island off the coast of Cambodia with some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up some sun!

Although a Buddhist country, you will still find festive Christmas decorations and many events throughout the month. Combine your Cambodia itinerary with a trip to neighboring Laos and Vietnam.

HOTEL : Six Senses Krabey Island

Kyoto, Japan

Delve into Japanese culture with all sorts of festive fun. While New Year’s is the primary event, the activities throughout December are sure to delight.

Go to Shimai Kobo on December 21 and Shimai Tenjin on Christmas Day. These two markets offer wonderful ceramics and handcraft shopping. Delicious food and drink can also be had here.

From the beautifully decorated Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine to the stunning Kinkakuji Temple, there are plenty of places to explore.

And don’t forget about the Nishiki Market, where you can find everything from traditional Japanese snacks to seasonally-themed souvenirs.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, participate in a tea ceremony at one of Kyoto’s many tea houses. Or simply wander through the Gion District, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic city.

Around Arashiyama December 8-17, lanterns in the thousands will be placed all around, including the enchanted bamboo forest. And if you are here on New Year’s, do not miss the bell-ringing ceremonies at the city’s largest temple, Choin-in.

On a 3 weeks in Japan itinerary , you can add Nara, Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa and more. No matter what you do, you’re sure to enjoy your time in Japan.

HOTEL : Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Havana, Cuba

Havana, Cuba is one of the best places to visit in December. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions. Start your visit with classic car tour of Old Havana. You will feel as if you stepped back in time.

El Morro Castle is another popular tourist spot, and a free walking tour of Old Havana is a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.

The Cuban National Ballet is also worth checking out, and Ernest Hemingway fans will enjoy visiting his former home.

Take a day trip to Viñales to ride horses, see the tobacco farming and pick up some Cuban cigars.

For a taste of local culture, be sure to try some traditional Cuban food. From fritas to mojitos, there are plenty of taste buds to tantalize in this vibrant city.

Holiday events include Las Parrandas de Remedios Christmas festival that’s a huge street party. Cathedral Square is another must-see, and New Year’s Eve is the perfect time. There’s a cabaret show and concert to ring in the New Year.

With so much to see and do, Havana is sure to make your December unforgettable.

HOTEL : El Candil Boutique Hotel

RELATED POST: What You Need to Know Before You Visit Cuba

These are the top places to travel in December around the world to celebrate the festive season. Whether you are planning a trip for winter vacation or a New Year’s getaway, get booking. It’s a busy travel time. If you still need more inspiration, check out the best places to travel in November .

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22 comments.

These places look amazing! Wow 🙂

melanie silk

What great recommendations! Thank you, thank you for reminding me about Art Basel. I haven’t made it down yet, but now I have it on my calendar. Last year I was there the week prior when they were setting up for it.

Art Basel is a feast for art lovers. I’ve been starting to keep a list of event dates to reference when I’m planning trips. So many fun things to do!

These places are amazing! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Julie | This Main Line Life

These are all gorgeous places to visit. I’d love to see Antarctica and anywhere tropical.

The Exclusive Beauty Diary

All of these places looks stunning. Thank you so much for sharing.

Visiting Antarctica at this time of year would be so cool! I have always wanted to take a trip in December when it’s cold and not very crowded. Thank you for the suggestions!

Visiting Antarctica would be such a dream. December travel has so many great and interesting options.

Omg they’re all SOOOO pretty! XOXO,

Great list dear. Can’t go wrong with any of these, especially NY!

Mariann Yip

Yes! It’s such a beautiful time to be in NYC during December. I also love Costa Rica so both are great recommendations 🙂

https://mariannyc.com/why-aruba-should-be-your-next-vacation-destination/

Thank you! NYC is so amazing at Christmas.

I would love to see these cute little Penguins once in my life. The white landscape in the Antarctica must be so beautiful to experience. I always love to get inspired by your amazing recommendations Jenifer!

Thanks Simone. I’d love to see those cute penguins too! Now that I know you can fly over the Drake passage, I’m dying to go to Antarctica.

Kelli Nordhus

You really put so much thought and detail into each blog post, and this is no exception. Love all of your choices!

Thanks Kelli! I love including what’s available to do at each location because it’s such a huge part of the adventure.

Nancy Weiss

How informative, I’ve never traveled abroad during the holidays, but you have just inspired me to plan for the future. If I can’t physically be there at least I get to dream right 😊

Dreaming about travel is great! Since our kids are bigger, I like to travel in the beginning of December or January. That way, I get the holiday travel without too much craziness at the airport.

jess jannenga

I really enjoyed reading the places that are great to travel to in Dec. We never travel then due to the holidays, but I would be ready for January! Costa Rica would be my speedy for the winter months. My Aunt is traveling to Germany in Dec and visiting the Christmas shops there.

I’ve never done the Christmas markets but would love to. Costa Rica is so perfect in December and January. So dreamy!

I really want to go to Strasbourg!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

Me too! It looks so pretty at Christmas.

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11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

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The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

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If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and other popular Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

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While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

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Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

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This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

The 10 best places to visit in December

In December, the world transforms. The Northern Hemisphere sees winter's touch with snow and chill, while the Southern Hemisphere basks in summer's warmth.

Travelers can choose anything from snow-capped landscapes ideal for winter sports to sunlit beaches for relaxation. As the year-end approaches, many places come alive with holiday preparations, each offering unique cultural experiences.

Whether it's the allure of festive markets , the thrill of outdoor adventures, or simply exploring new terrains, December provides something for every traveler.

But where should you go? Here are the 10 best destinations to visit in December.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Imagine a place where the winter comes alive — that's Breckenridge in December. Picture world-class ski slopes, cozy family sleigh rides and thrilling snowmobile adventures. Not to mention, the history here is captivating. December's Ullr Fest is also a special treat for travelers. The festival is a local favorite held in honor of Ullr, the Norse god of snow. (We're hoping he blesses us with plenty of powder.)

There's also plenty to explore in nearby towns like Frisco and Leadville; less than an hour away, you can take a rejuvenating dip at Indian Hot Springs. Or, weather permitting, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to marvel at its natural beauty.

Related: The best ski resorts in the US for your next trip to the slopes

If you're still in Breckenridge come January, you're in for a spectacle. During the International Snow Sculpture Championships, artists carve massive snow blocks into stunning creations.

TPG tip : Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a spectacular Rocky Mountain retreat with premium skiing, winter escapades, boating, mountain biking and year-round family-friendly outdoor activities. It's available for about $205 in December, or 21,000 World of Hyatt Points per night.

Truckee, California

Of all the best places to visit in December in the USA, Truckee is one that tops our list. Come wintertime, the destination transforms into a snow-draped haven. From peaceful snowshoe treks to exciting family sledding spots, there's something for everyone here. For skiing enthusiasts, some of the region's best slopes await. Beyond winter sports, the stunning beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe is a must-see.

After a day in the snow, explore downtown Truckee. It offers museums full of rich local history, and its numerous breweries and eateries provide a taste of the town's culture. You can even opt for a guided tour of the town.

Related: From hidden gems to big names: Here are 11 of California's best ski resorts

TPG tip : Book a stay at SpringHill Suites Truckee for about 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $282 per night.

Dorado, Puerto Rico

Seeking a warm winter getaway? Dorado sits on Puerto Rico 's stunning Caribbean coastline, and it boasts white-sand beaches perfect for surfing, swimming and many family-friendly adventures.

A short drive away, San Juan immerses you in a vibrant blend of culture, music and culinary delights. Here, you can experience cultural festivities throughout the year, savor delicious local dishes and sway to the rhythms of salsa, bomba and plena echoing from the city's picturesque squares.

Beyond that, the region offers thrilling activities like hang gliding and paragliding. For those keen to explore, guided tours can lead you to hidden beaches and lush tropical paths. Don't miss out on the YuYu Cave — a captivating and educational spot for young adventurers who love nature.

TPG tip : Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a great home base for exploring the area and is available from $1,645 or 215,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

During the holidays, Zurich becomes a festive paradise. Streets shimmer with lights, and Christmas markets spring to life. Highlights include Burkliplatz's candle dipping, the enchanting "Marlitram" fairy tale tram and the singing choirs at Werdmuhleplatz, accompanied by its famed "Singing Christmas Tree."

Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets, boasts a radiant tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. The nostalgic Dorfli market in Old Town offers a vintage charm with fondue and artisanal goods.

For a warm treat, stop by Cafe Felix and choose from a medley of hot chocolate iterations. Or, savor history at the luxury confectioner Sprungli, which has been in operation since 1836. For elevated dining, Restaurant Felsenegg provides fondue with a stunning city view.

Beyond these, visitors can skate, toboggan or take a scenic fondue eTukTuk ride. Zurich's thermal baths and saunas overlooking Lake Zurich promise relaxation. For artsy souls, the "Herzebaracke" floating theater offers diverse performances by the lake from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 10, 2024.

TPG tip : Stay near the heart of town at Crowne Plaza Zurich for around $146 or 30,000 IHG rewards points per night.

In December, Japan lights up in celebration, offering visitors a magical experience. From Tokyo's Omotesando Illuminations, aglow with around 900,000 lights, to Ashikaga Flower Park's radiant 5-million-light display, the country is a spectacle. Mie Prefecture's Nabana no Sato Winter Illumination lets guests immerse themselves in LED light fields and explore captivating light tunnels.

Meanwhile, Kobe's touching Luminarie shines in remembrance of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake victims. December also welcomes ski enthusiasts as Japan's winter sports season begins.

From the breathtaking views at Shiga Kogen Ski Area in Nagano — with its Olympic-endorsed slopes — to the sought-after resorts in Niigata — easily accessible from Tokyo — skiing here is a dream. But there's more to Niigata than just skiing: Indulge in its renowned hot springs and savor its exquisite seafood, rice and sake.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Conrad Tokyo for $389 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Dubai in December is a whole different vibe. The scorching heat takes a backseat, making way for cooler days. This means beach picnics, outdoor adventures and late-night strolls become even more inviting. And then there's the festive buzz. Everywhere you look, from the towering skyscrapers to the cozy lanes, Dubai sparkles with holiday decorations.

It's not just about twinkling lights, though. The city pulses with events — think bustling markets, lively performances and the aroma of seasonal treats filling the air. Against the backdrop of the vast desert and the iconic skyline, the festive cheer feels even more special. So, if you're dreaming of a mix of relaxation, retail therapy and rich culture, Dubai is your go-to.

TPG tip : Book a room at La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk for $586 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, or stay at the lavish Atlantis The Royal .

The Bahamas

Traveling to the Bahamas becomes a breeze this December, thanks to several new flight routes. Delta Air Lines is launching a direct flight from New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Nassau. For travelers on the West Coast, there's good news, too: American Airlines is rolling out direct flights from Los Angeles and Seattle to Nassau.

Not to be left out, JetBlue is introducing a weekly nonstop service from LA. Once you touch down, the Bahamas offers a plethora of experiences. Dive into the clear waters, explore the world's third-largest coral reef or swim with the wild pigs.

And if you're into sailing, December is the prime time to visit. Events like The National Family Island Regatta showcase the region's rich maritime heritage.

TPG tip : Book a room at the French Leave Resort for $749 or 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Or, for sheer indulgence, opt for the luxurious Rosewood Baha Mar , where rates start from $715 per night.

Morristown, Arizona

Just a quick 50-minute drive from Phoenix, Morristown is the perfect desert escape in December. The weather's a treat with comfy temperatures in the 60s and 70s — a lovely switch from Arizona's intense summer and the cold weather of other destinations.

If you love the outdoors, you'll be in your element. Morristown's desert beauty is a big draw, with opportunities to go hiking or 4x4 riding.

At night, the town's clear December skies, away from bright city glows, offer some top-notch stargazing. Witness the breathtaking Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, peaking on Dec. 14-15 and 22-23, respectively. And there's more to the celestial show: Mark your calendar for the New Moon on Dec. 13, the Winter Solstice on Dec. 22, and the Full Moon on Dec. 27.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Castle Hot Springs , which is an American Express Fine Hotels + Resort partner. Platinum cardholders receive 12 p.m. check-in (when available), room upgrade at check-in (when available), daily breakfast for two, $100 property credit to be used during the stay, complimentary Wi-Fi and 4 p.m. checkout guaranteed.

New York City

New York City in December is an enchanting experience. Imagine skating below the gleaming Rockefeller Center tree, surrounded by the city's sparkling skyline. Fifth Avenue transforms into a festive paradise, with its department stores showcasing captivating holiday window displays.

Brooklyn's Dyker Heights is a must-visit for those who admire festive lights. The neighborhood's homes are grandly decorated for the holidays, and dedicated bus tours guide visitors through the most brilliantly lit blocks.

But the magic doesn't stop there. You can also catch a classic holiday show at Radio City Music Hall, wander through the winter markets at Bryant Park or Central Park, and marvel at the giant holiday ornaments scattered throughout the city.

TPG tip : Book a stay at the Park South Hotel for $480 or 23,000 Hyatt World points, or check out TPG's favorite hotels in New York City .

December is the perfect month to explore Uganda. The landscapes are at their greenest, yet the weather stays dry. This combination is ideal for gorilla tracking, an experience you won't forget. Boat safaris also shine in December. As water sources become a focal point in the dry terrain, spotting the Big Five becomes even more thrilling.

While Uganda is gaining attention, it's still a quieter East African destination. Venture beyond the natural wonders, too. The capital, Kampala, is a city full of surprises. From the lively Equator Bar in the Sheraton to the unique crocodile tail delicacy at The Lawns, there's much to savor. And if you're into art, the Afriart Gallery showcases contemporary pieces.

TPG tip : Book a stay at Hilton Garden Inn Kampala for $170 or 37,000 Hilton Honors points.

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32 Warm Places to Visit in December in USA (Best Spots to Escape the Cold)

Posted on Published: August 10, 2022  - Last updated: October 7, 2023

There’s nothing quite like a warm getaway to escape the cold, dreary weather. The USA has some pretty incredible vacation spots that are perfect for winter. Feel the sunshine at these amazing destinations: warm places to visit in December in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

To find warmth in the USA in December, you’re pretty much heading south. From island vacations to coastal destinations and deserts, there’s so many beautiful and adventurous places to beat the cold.

This list of warm places to visit in USA in December includes spots you’ve definitely had on your radar – but perhaps more intriguing are the underrated places you haven’t heard of!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation destination to get outdoors and active instead of cooped up, a perfect location to spend your holiday break, or you’re just looking for the best beach to visit in December, you’ll find a bit of everything on this list!

Map of the best warm places to visit in USA in December

From Hawaii to Florida, there’s so many ideas on this list! Use this map as a visual of the destinations, then check out the photos and tips below on what to do in each location.

By the way, since I’m actively crossing places off my bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some fellow travel writers to help with this list.

Let’s get to it!

Must-see video: best warm December vacation ideas

Warm places to visit in December in USA

Starting this list off with a bang! When all you want in December is warmth, these are the perfect vacation destinations for you!

1. St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 82, low 72

Wishing for warmer temps in December? Well St. Croix might just be the perfect spot for your winter getaway! The largest and least visited of the US Virgin Islands, St. Croix is an tropical oasis while escaping the cold.

Just at the start of the dry season, December is a perfect time to visit St. Croix. It’s a festive time of year with Christmas events and festivals across the island, including the Crucian Christmas Festival .

If you’re looking for the perfect beach in December on St. Croix, then Sandy Point Beach is it! Open on the weekends, it’s a National Wildlife Refuge, and one of the longest beaches in the US Virgin Islands. It’s closed during sea turtle nesting season, typically April through August, so December is the perfect time to visit!

For a true taste of the Caribbean, visit a rum distillery. St. Croix is home to Captain Morgan Rum Distillery and Cruzan Rum Distillery. Or, visit one of the 150+ sugar mill ruins on the island to soak in some history.

Other popular activities are hiking for those turquoise water views, taking a day trip to Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge and visiting Fort Christiansvaern.

There’s so many things to do in St. Croix, you won’t get bored! It’s one of the very best warm places to visit in USA in December, and one you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Monterey, California (one of my favorite warm US destinations in December)

Average temp:  high 61, low 45

One of the ‘coolest’ warm places to visit in December in USA is Monterey, California. Known for it’s mild temperatures year-round, it’s a great spot for a winter getaway.

December is especially a great time to visit Monterey because the marine fog has mostly dissipated , versus the summer or early fall when it’s still lingering around. Crowds are fewer and prices are reduced, which is awesome for enjoying the area attractions.

Monterey is home to one of the United States best marine sanctuary, making it one of the best spots in the US for wildlife viewing ! Take a kayak tour of the Monterey Bay or witness seals and sea otters in their native habitats at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

Spend a day – or more experiencing Big Sur and one of the best scenic drives in the US, just south of Monterey. There are so many things to do in Big Sur that you’ll find something you love! Chase waterfalls, relax on beaches or get active on a hiking trail with incredible views of the coast.

Be sure to visit Cannery Row where you’ll find shopping, dining and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. It’s home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best things to do with kids in Monterey.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

San Juan is a must on any  Puerto Rico itinerary , no matter when you vacation, but December is a particularly wonderful time to visit. Hurricane season is officially over, and daytime temperatures are in the low 80s, making is a great time to explore and hit area beaches.

The holidays are celebrated with verve all through the month. Old San Juan, the city’s historic district, is decked up in holiday lights and nativity scenes.

Enjoy Puerto Rican eggnog, an alcoholic concoction made with rum, coconut milk, and sweet spices. You’ll also find live music in the streets, and, leading into Christmas, folks singing Christmas carols at night. Very festive!

December is also perfect for sightseeing. Be sure to visit the historic forts of Old San Juan, and walk the colorful alleys to snap photos of the beautiful facades. 

The balmy weather makes December a great time to spend time of the many idyllic beaches in San Juan and just beyond , from the beaches of Isla Verde to Luquillo. For more beach time, plan on a day trip to Culebra Puerto Rico or Icacos Island ! If you’re looking for unique experiences, consider the Bioluminescent Bay, as reviewed in the battle of Culebra vs Vieques .

It’s also a great time to visit El Yunque, the tropical rainforest near San Juan. Hike amidst lush vegetation and waterfalls and take in the views from the observation tower. 

Hotel El Convento is a great place to stay in Old San Juan! It’s housed in a beautiful historic building. 

Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

4. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 80, low 66

If you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations, look no further than Maui. Home to incredible scenery like gorgeous beaches, tropical rainforests with beautiful waterfalls and epic adventures, Maui is an awesome place to visit!

It’s especially great in December because the rainy season hasn’t hit yet and the crowds of summer are gone, making it more affordable and more enjoyable. If you go in the first 2 weeks of December, you’ll avoid the holiday pricing.

Be sure to relax on Maui’s beautiful beaches! For year-round snorkeling fun, Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach is a must. Don’t forget your snorkel gear so you can go when you want! Or, watch the surfers at D.T. Fleming Beach on the North Shore.

If you’re looking for adventure, hike the Waihee Ridge Trail . You’ll get epic views of the valley and coast. Just be sure to wear hiking shoes for this one – the trail can get muddy after it rains.

And if you’re up for a road trip, driving the popular Road to Hana is one of the best road trips USA and an experience you’ll never forget. Be sure to make it to Wai’ānapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach (reservations required).

Side note: if you’re really into unique beaches, a must-see is the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico. So stunning!

Anyway, for a more remote drive, consider the Kahekili Highway. This one-lane road offers stunning views and adventure like hiking, waterfalls and more.

Maui is an ideal destination for the best beaches in December, and one you’ll definitely want to consider!

5. St. George, Utah

Average temp:  high 56, low 31

One of the most unique spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is St. George, Utah. Nestled on the southwest corner of the state, it’s just minutes away from Arizona and Nevada.

A great launching spot for a Utah national parks road trip, St. George is located about an hour west of Zion National Park. You could certainly take a day trip to Zion, but it may have a bit of snow in December.

There’s so many things to do in St. George. The downtown is rich in history, with museums and parks to learn about the region in years – and centuries past. From the dinosaurs to the Paiute natives and then finally settled by Mormons in the 1800’s.

Of course there’s plenty of outdoor activities in St. George – even in December! Snow Canyon State Park is just 15 minutes north of town, and worth the visit. With 20 miles of hiking trails through petrified dunes, lava tubes and of course, stunning overlooks, it’s a hiker’s dream.

For more adventure, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride near the city. Or, rent a sled and sandbar at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a little over an hour south of town.

6. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 74, low 55

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the USA over and over again, Siesta Key is an amazing getaway. Although high’s in the mid 70’s may not seem like great swimming weather, it still means you can enjoy this beachy destination.

You’ll get more of the beach to yourself in December, which is one of the perks of traveling to Siesta Key in winter. Fly a kite or build a sandcastle. Take beach chairs or a lightweight beach towel and just enjoy the sound of the gentle waves hitting the shore.

And when you need a break from the beach (if that’s even a thing😉), you can head into Siesta Key Village where you’ll find the cutest town square . With boutique shops and restaurants, there’s plenty to do here, too. Be sure to try Meaney’s Mini Donuts & Coffee House (the cinnamon ones are the best).

With so many things to do in Siesta Key , there’s truly something for everyone! You’ll love this beach town, as it’s one of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December.

7. Temecula, California

Average temp:  high 67, low 47

If you are ready to escape the cold, snowy weather for somewhere warmer this December, look no further than Temecula, California. Located in Southern California, just an hour’s drive from San Diego, this city has plenty to do – including wine tasting, shopping, and more! 

In December, Temecula’s high temperature is just shy of 70°F, with only 2 days of precipitation, so you can expect warm, sunny days. And there’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather than with a visit to Temecula Valley Wine Country!

Temecula is home to 50+ local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms . Some of the best wineries in Temecula include Wilson Creek Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Baily Vineyard & Winery. 

December is a fabulous time to visit Temecula because of the fun holiday events you can attend, like the Temecula Chilled Holiday Market and Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula. Despite the warm weather, you can even ice skate at the Peltzer Ice Skating Rink or Temecula on Ice during the holidays. 

Old Town Temecula is a fantastic location to base your trip if you want to walk around and soak up the sunshine, as it’s one of the best winter sun destinations in the US.

You can eat at some of the best restaurants in Old Town Temecula , like The Goat & Vine or 1909 Temecula, or you can shop at the dozens of quaint boutiques selling unique items, like wine-barrel furniture, olive oils and more. 

Carter Estate Winery and Resort is the perfect place to stay for your warm-weather getaway to Temecula, CA. Located on a gorgeous vineyard, this resort allows you to wake up in the heart of wine country every morning! 

Recommended by Brittany of Travel By Brit

8. South Padre Island, Texas

Average temp:  high 72, low 57

If you’re looking for an amazing warm destination to visit in December in the USA, then South Padre Island is the perfect destination for you. 

After all, temperatures are usually around 72 degrees during the day and then around 57 degrees in the evening throughout the month of December.

Plus, the weather here is usually pretty dry, making it the perfect place to relax, take a walk through the Padre Island National Seashore, and enjoy the single biggest undeveloped barrier island in the world.  Additionally, December is off-season. Therfore, crowds will be minimal and hotel prices will be quite reasonable. 

As a result, you can quietly enjoy some of the best things to do in South Padre Island , like take some time to explore the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse from 1852 . In fact, it’s the only lighthouse on the coast of Texas that is open to visitors and makes for a fun place to visit. 

Then, learn about local wildlife at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center. In fact, this amazing wildlife rescue center helps upwards of 100 turtles per year and is an ideal place to learn all about these fascinating creatures. 

You can also visit the South Padre island Birding Center and admire local populations of Buff-bellied hummingbirds, White Ibis, and Red-winged Blackbirds as you stroll along the picturesque boardwalk here. 

Then, pamper yourself at the Sapphire Spa before spending the night at the swank Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island to create the ultimate getaway. South Padre Island is one of the best warm places to visit in USA in December.

Recommended by Victoria of Texas Travel 365

Warm places to visit in December in USA, continued

Can you believe this list?! Just 25% through it and there’s so many more adventures to have. Let’s keep going!

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 65, low 46

If you’re looking for a place to escape winter’s frigid clutches and have a little fun in December, there is no better place than New Orleans! While the weather in New Orleans can be oppressive at certain times of the year, December is ideal as it averages in the 60s – 70s which is perfect for sightseeing!

You might think The Big Easy is only a party town during Mardi Gras – wrong! December ushers in plenty of its own one-of-a-kind holiday fun.

The beginning of December kicks off with the Krewe of Jingle – a downtown holiday parade with special appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Clause. New Orleans knows how to host a parade, so this is one you should make sure you don’t miss!

In the middle of December, head to historic Lafayette Square to enjoy the LUNA Fête festival . Over a long weekend, the city celebrates with awe-inspiring light shows; it generally brings in over 100,000 attendees!

In addition to the holiday fun, another great way to get to know the city is on a walking tour. This is an especially great activity if this is your  first time visiting New Orleans  — there are a range of tour options, from learning about Voodoo to exploring the chic Garden District.

New Orleans is a fun city and one of the best warm places to visit in December. And, if you have a bit more time in the area, be sure to check out the best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana .

Recommended by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

10. Oahu, Hawaii (a destination full of the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 82, low 67

When you think of a warm December getaway, Oahu may be one of the first destinations to come to mind. And with its stunning white sand beaches, epic mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular destinations, come December. 

Thanks to its location close to the equator, Oahu enjoys temperatures in the low 80s in December, which is warm enough to break out the tank tops, sun dresses and even a long travel skirt .

In December the island may experience a rain shower or two. These showers usually only last for a few hours and should not be too much of a hindrance on your outdoor adventures. 

Many visitors primarily focus their explorations of the island to Honolulu, but there’s so much else to see and do here. For example, one of the best things to do in Oahu in December is to watch the professional surfers take on the big waves of the North Shore . Check out the Banzai Pipeline or Waimea Bay Beach Park, which can see waves up to 25 feet in height! 

While snorkeling along the North Shore is probably not advisable in December, given the aforementioned monster waves, you can still check out some of the best snorkeling in Oahu by heading to Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, just 10 minutes east of Honolulu .

Here, the waters stay calm year round, where you can swim with and observe the 400 species of fish, turtles and other marine life. Bring your own snorkel gear to hit the water when and where you want while on Oahu!

For a conveniently located home base during your stay, consider The Modern Honolulu , just steps away from Waikiki Beach, both a family-friendly and adults only pool and an excellent onsite restaurant. 

Oahu is one of the best winter sun destinations in the US, and one you won’t want to miss!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

11. Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Average temp:  high 75, low 55

The happiest place on Earth, aka Disney World, is an easy pick for any families out there looking for iconic warm places to visit in December in USA. 

After all, Disney World comes alive at this time of year with festive holiday decor and fun seasonal events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. 

Plus, the weather at  Disney in December  is super comfortable throughout the month since the average high is 74 F and the average daily low is 56 F. 

However, to avoid insane crowds, try to time your visit for the first week of December. This is when kids are still in the school and when the park is less crowded. 

You should also try and buy Park Hoppers so that you can avoid more crowded parks on an as needed basis. 

Additionally, try and visit Magic Kingdom on Party Days and avoid parks with extra Magic Hours to get the most out of your visit. 

Then, make time to enjoy seasonal activities like Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party (an add-on experiences for extra fees), Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace or Plaza Garden Viewing (another add-on event), A Frozen Holiday Wish (happens nightly all month long) and more. 

You can also attend the International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot before spending the night at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.  It’s probably the best Deluxe resort in Disneyworld and features an island theme that is accentuated by leis that are presented to you as you walk in the door.

Looking for more fun? Check out the best Hollywood Studios rides in the park!

Recommended by Victoria of Disney Trippers

12. Augusta, Georgia

Average temp:  high 60, low 41

One of the most underrated spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is Augusta, Georgia . A southern city full of charm, Augusta is known for outdoor recreation, historical sites and hist vibrant restaurant scene.

Tour downtown finding fun murals, shopping and dining. A foodie’s delight, Augusta is known for outdoor patios, which you’ll find especially inviting in the warm sun during mid-day. Bring layers for the evenings as it gets chilly!

One of Augusta’s top attractions is the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Walk the trails and soak in the peaceful nature all around you. Or, get a little more active on the 32 miles of biking trails through the Forks Area Trail System.

And you can’t visit Augusta without a stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk . It’s a fun, brick trail along the Savannah River! If traveling with kids, they’ll love the playground on the Riverwalk.

During December, the city has holiday festivals and markets. Enjoy historic holiday tours where you can visit homes from the 1800’s, including the childhood home of President Woodrow.

13. San Diego, California (perfect for this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 49

San Diego is an incredible place to visit during December. With incredible weather and tons of fabulous attractions, you can’t go wrong with visiting this Southern California City! 

You can expect temperatures around the high 60’s during the day and in the 40’s at night. Some of the best things to add to your San Diego itinerary in December include wandering through the famous Balboa Park.

Balboa Park is comprised of 1,200 acres. You can explore beautiful gardens and dozens of museums including The San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Museum of Us, San Diego Natural History Museum and more! Additionally, the famous San Diego Zoo is also located in Balboa Park.

The Old Town San Diego Historic State Park is another must-visit. Here you can indulge in amazing food while experiencing San Diego’s Spanish roots and history.

A special experience in San Diego during December is whale watching . Around 20,000 Grey Whales start migrating in mid-December. Seals also start giving birth around mid-December at the La Jolla Caves. You will likely also be able to see the Sea Lions in La Jolla too!

If you are in search of some additional beach time, don’t forget to check out Coronado Island. Walk along the beach, enjoy the many eateries, and visit the famous Hotel Del Coronado .

Recommended by Sam of Find Love and Travel

14. Sedona, Arizona

verage temp:  high 60, low 34

Sedona is the perfect sunny escape in December! Excellent for various travel styles, there’s hiking and outdoor adventures, as well as low-key things to do in town. With mild temperatures and minimal crowds, December is a great time to visit Sedona.

Take the Sedona Trolley around town to get acquainted without the worry of driving or traffic. Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for just that – shopping.

Go hiking or horseback riding at Cathedral Rock or Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love jumping around the unique landscape at Slide Rock State Park .

Perhaps the most popular hiking trail in the area is Devil’s Bridge Trail . At 3.9 miles and rated as moderate, this trail is perfect for an afternoon hike in December! Bring your grippy hiking shoes for this one, as the rock stairs leading up to the bridge can get pretty slick.

For the best views of the incredible landscape in Sedona, head up to Airport Mesa. There’s a parking lot at the overlook so it doesn’t require much hiking at all. It’s also a great spot for stargazing!

15. Culebra, Puerto Rico (perfect for visiting the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 85, low 74

Quite possibly the warmest place in the US in December, Culebra Puerto Rico is an amazing destination you’ll love. Puerto Rico was previously mentioned above, but Culebra is so spectacular it deserves it’s own spot.

Culebra Puerto Rico is located just 18 miles off the eastern side of Mainland Puerto Rico . Getting to Culebra requires a ferry ride or small plane, but it’s so worth it!

Home to one of the most incredible beaches in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is one of the best beaches you’ll ever see, and a phenomenal place to visit for the best beaches in December.

This crescent-shaped beach sits along rolling hills and its undeveloped land makes it seem from a fairytale. With plenty of parking and amenities, you’ll want to spend a day – or more – at Flamenco Beach.

Spend some time in with the sea turtles while snorkeling at Tamarindo Beach. Or, for some solitude, visit the lesser-known Zoni Beach. And when you’re hungry, be sure to head downtown to grab a bite.

For couples traveling, consider the cozy cottages with phenomenal views – Aleli Cottages . For more space, try the Oceania Villas .

You’ll fall in love with Culebra. It’s definitely one of the best on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA!

16. Florida Keys

Average temp:  high 75, low 70

The snow is falling, the temperatures keep dropping and you’re ready to escape to a tropical paradise. One of the best warm places to visit in December is the Florida Keys!

Stretching approximately 120 miles from Key Largo to the southernmost point in the continental USA (Key West), the Florida Keys are the perfect getaway if you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With average December temperatures in the high 70’s, you’ll never want to leave! 

Your best and most affordable option would be to fly into Miami and rent a car to make the Miami to Key West road trip . From here, you can take your time exploring each island and all they have to offer. You’ll want to spend at least one night in Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. 

The list of things to do in the Florida Keys is never-ending. Depending on how much time you have, you will have to decide between scuba diving in John Pennekamp State Park, deep sea fishing at Robbie’s, parasailing over the sparkling blue water or simply relaxing on the beach. 

After your road trip of adventures, you’ll definitely want to stay in Key West at Tiki Suites.  There are 2 suites located in the middle of the ocean! You’ll have nothing but the ocean surrounding you as you relax and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

Best winter sun destinations

Okay – let’s catch a breath here. We’re 1/2 way done. A few of my personal favorites are coming up next!

More winter sunshine ahead…

17. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 84, low 76

The US Virgin Islands are a great place to visit in December for a number of reasons, especially St. Thomas . First, the weather is absolutely beautiful during this time of year.

The average high temperature is about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is only about 75 degrees. This makes it the perfect time of year to enjoy all that the islands have to offer, including the beaches, without having to deal with crowds of people.

The beaches on St. Thomas are calm and perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of water sports activities to keep everyone entertained. Magen’s Bay is the most popular beach on the island and is great for families.

Coki Beach and Sapphire Beach are also a lot of fun! Sapphire Beach, especially is a great place to base during your stay because Sapphire Beach Resort offers discounts on snorkeling equipment rental to its guests. There are also several pools and a restaurant there, in case you don’t feel like going elsewhere to eat.

December is also a great time to visit St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands because it’s one of the quieter times of the year.

While the islands do see a significant number of tourists during the winter months, it’s nothing compared to the summer crowds. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy all that the US Virgin Islands have to offer without having to worry about fighting for space on the beach or in restaurants.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

18. Santa Barbara, California

Average temp:  high 65, low 45

Known for its incredible Spanish architecture, wineries, expansive beaches and moderate temperatures, Santa Barbara is always a good idea. Deserving on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA, Santa Barbara offers sunshine to those wishing to escape grey skies or snow elsewhere.

Dive into culture, history and art in Santa Barbara. See a performance at the Lobero Theater, visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, get lost in the beauty of Santa Barbara Museum of Art or shop and dine on State Street.

Of course, you’ll want to visit the beach while you’re at the California Coast! Santa Barbara is one of the best stops on a Pacific Coast Highway vacation from San Francisco to San Diego road trip . The area’s best beaches along the way are East Beach, Hendry’s Beach and Goleta Beach Park.

December is a fabulous time to visit Santa Barbara, as the city is full of events and festivities . Watch the boat parade through the harbor at Stearns Wharf. Shop for someone special at the city’s annual Folk and Tribal Arts Marketplace.

And don’t forget about New Year’s Eve in Santa Barbara! For a night to remember, try a champagne cruise, catch a drag show, do a bar crawl or so much more. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of the year!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

19. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 82, low 65

You gotta go to Kauai! It’s not only one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA, it’s also an incredible destination for adventure and relaxation! Known as ‘the garden isle’ for its lush vegetation and epic waterfalls, it has stunning coastlines unlike any other spot on this list – or in the world.

You’ll want to see the Waimea Canyon, AKA the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Explore it’s epic views from the inside by hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail . Right down the road is the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, to see the stunning NaPali Coast.

For sunshine in December, you’ll want to stay in the Poipu area to get the least amount of rain . Popular for awesome beaches like Poipu Beach or Shipwreck Beach, the waves can be the smallest in the winter, which is perfect for a warm getaway to the beach.

Kauai is home to some amazing food too. On the North Shore, try Kalypso Island Bar & Grill in Hanalei. You’ve gotta try the acai bowls at Java Kai in Kapaa, or the famous Hula Pie at Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa. Some of the best places to eat in Kauai won’t break the bank, either, like Da Crack Mexican Grinds.

Early December is a fabulous time to visit Kauai as it’s the shoulder season. The pricing is lower than late December over the holiday, and the crowds are much fewer, meaning you’ll have less waiting at restaurants and attractions.

20. Bisbee, Arizona

The quaint, little town of Bisbee, AZ is attracting winter travelers from all over the world due to its stunning beauty and quirky vibe.

Why visit Bisbee in December? It is truly the best month, boasting highs in the mid-50s and lows in the low-30s. Being an inherently dry climate, you can expect little to no precipitation this time of year. Instead, you’ll find clear skies, colorful sunsets and more stars than you can imagine. 

In visiting Bisbee you can expect a true getaway. The town is small, with just over 5,000 residents. However, what it lacks in population, it makes up for in charm.

A haven for artists and other creative types, the town is full of murals, quirky antique shops, charming cafes and relaxed breweries. Make sure to spend some time shopping in downtown, visiting the nearby ghost town of Lowell and viewing the Lavender Pit, which is an open copper mine located just outside of town.

If you’re lucky enough to spend some time  road tripping in the area , you should also check out Saguaro National Park and Chiricahua National Monument, which are both less than 2 hours away. 

You can’t go wrong with booking a boutique hotel in the main part of town. If you are looking to get close to the action, try the  Copper Queen Hotel . If you would like something a little bit quieter, the  School House Inn Bed & Breakfast  may be more your speed.

Either way, you are sure to enjoy a picturesque and relaxing stay in the heart of the American Southwest, one of the best warm places to visit in December!

Recommended by Michele of Slow Traveling Cat

21. Anna Maria Island, Florida (another one of my favorites for warm places to visit in USA in December)

It’s small-town charm and crisp, white beaches will draw you in. Anna Maria Island is definitely one of the most fabulous (and underrated) warm places to visit in USA in December!

Located just an hour west of Sarasota, this island is the picturesque Florida vacation destination. Lacking chain hotels or restaurants, you’ll find boutique shops, fun places to eat and awesome beaches.

Check out the Anna Maria Pier for unique views of the island and local waters. If you’re lucky, one of the local fevers (groups) of sting rays will be lurking in the waters below! Hunt for seashells at Coquina Beach, hang out the beach at Bean Point or find some adrenaline in a parasailing adventure.

Celebrate the holidays in Anna Maria Island by visiting the cute Bridge Street, covered in twinkling lights . Or catch one of the island’s boat parades, where locals and tour companies decorate their boats with holiday lights and show them off during a water parade.

December is a special time on Anna Maria Island, and with so many unique things to do on Anna Maria Island , you won’t get bored!

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

When planning a summer vacation, Myrtle Beach might come to mind, but have you ever considered retreating to beautiful South Carolina in December? This southern beach town is the perfect retreat if you’re trying to escape the cold and enjoy some warmer weather.

In December, Myrtle Beach offers weather in the 60s with mostly sunny days. Visiting this month means very little crowds, cheaper room rates at places like the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes .

One of the  locals’ favorite things to do in Myrtle Beach  is to visit Brookgreen Gardens, located just 30 minutes outside of downtown. The gardens are an amazing destination year round, but from the end of November to the beginning of January, they hold the Nights of a Thousand Candles. The whole property is lit with over a million lights and almost 3,000 hand-lit candles. You can listen to holiday music, admire the lights and drink some hot apple cider, getting in the holiday spirit.

Spend another evening at one of Myrtle Beach’s famous theaters for a holiday themed show! Pirates Voyage, The Alabama Theater and The Carolina Opry all hold special holiday themed shows during December and are so much fun for all ages.

The daytimes will be warm enough to walk on the beach, eat fresh seafood outside on the boardwalk and ride the massive Ferris Wheel. Try the Sea Captain’s House or River City Cafe for some of the best food with ocean views!

Recommended by Tori of Tori Pines Travels

23. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Average temp:  high 61, low 37

Joshua Tree is an incredible place to visit in December for warm weather and sunshine! The desert landscape means that unlike most national parks in the US, summers are too hot for outdoor adventures. 

December brings perfect weather for hiking in Joshua Tree , as daytime temperatures are comfortable , usually in the high 50s or low 60s. It does get chilly at night, so be prepared with some layers – especially if you’re camping, or if you plan to be out in the mornings or evenings!

December is also less crowded than spring or fall, when the park is most popular – but, starting your day early or staying in the park close to sunset will be the best way to avoid crowds. Some of the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park include the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Ryan Mountain and the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Some other great things to do in the park include stargazing, off-roading and wildlife viewing. You can see lizards, snakes, tortoises, birds, and if you’re lucky, maybe some big horn sheep, foxes and bobcats!

When you’re in Joshua Tree, you can camp in the park, check out some of the quirky vacation rentals nearby, or stay at the Joshua Tree Inn.

Recommended by Anna of Anna Tee

24. San Antonio, Texas

Average temp:  high 64, low 40

If you’re looking for the best warm places to visit in December, then San Antonio, Texas should be on your radar! With sunshine and temperatures in the 60’s during the day, you’ll be exploring this fun city in warm weather, a nice escape from the cold.

The San Antonio River Walk is the shining star of this destination, but it offers visitors so much more!

Explore The Alamo – the location of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution in 1863 (timed ticket entry required). For more history and art, visit the San Antonio Museum of Art, Brisco Western Art Museum or the McNay Art Museum.

If you’re looking for a family getaway during December, you’ll want to hit up Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Rides for kids and adults of all ages, it’s a thrilling way to enjoy your time in San Antonio.

And of course, you can’t go to San Antonio without experiencing the River Walk. There’s so much to do and see in the area. From street vendors and shops to restaurants and cool architecture, you can spend a whole day (or more) exploring the area.

A warm getaway, San Antonio just might be the perfect December getaway!

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to plan your trip to San Antonio to include the best Texas resorts for families .

More warm places to visit in USA in December

From the best beaches in December to adventurous destinations off the beaten path, let’s round out this list with more incredible destinations!

25. Page, Arizona

Average temp:  high 45, low 30

If you’re looking to spend time in the American southwest, Page, Arizona is one of the best places to visit. It’s home to some of the most popular places to visit in Arizona including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. December is a great time to visit because the weather is beautiful. 

In the month of December, the days are warmer and the night cold so it’s a good idea to make sure you bring layers. There is little to no rain here during the month of December. These are great temperatures for hiking and going on outdoor adventures in the area. 

There are lots of great  places to stay in Page . If you’re looking for a unique experience, try glamping with Under Canvas . For a traditional hotel stay, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or the Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell .

One of the best things to do in Page is tour Antelope Canyon . This beautiful slot canyon is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s an amazing experience to walk through. It’s gorgeous!

December is a popular time to tour Antelope Canyon, so you’ll want to make your reservations well in advance. After your tour of Antelope Canyon, be sure to leave some time to walk out to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook.

There are lots of other fun destinations in this area, including Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Sedona. Page, AZ is a great destination to include if you’re going on a road trip through this area, and one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

26. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Average temp:  high 70, low 60

Clearwater Beach is one of the best winter sun destinations! Located just 25 miles west of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it’s one of the most popular beaches in the country.

Temperatures consistently stay between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, but the crowds are significantly less during this time of year. This makes it the perfect time to be able to relax in comfort without having to fight for a free spot on the sand or get overheated by the scorching summer sun. 

Unlike the majority of beaches on mainland USA, Clearwater Beach has powder white sand and turquoise blue water. It’s absolutely beautiful, and the sunsets on this beach are even prettier!

There’s even an entire nightly festival that was created just to celebrate the sunsets! It’s called the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival, and it starts 2 hours before sunset every evening. When deciding  where to stay in Clearwater Beach , a hotel right by the pier is your best pick to keep you close to the action. Opal Sands is a top-rated choice!

Boat tours are another popular activity during December. There are dolphin-spotting cruises and even pirate cruises for kids.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also celebrates the holiday season. W hen you visit during December, you can see Christmas lights, festive habitats and even tank divers dressed up as Santa and his helpers.

Definitely consider Clearwater Beach for your next warm weather vacation in the US in December!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 60, low 27

You know what’s awesome? Las Vegas in winter, as opposed to summertime. 🤣 Las Vegas deserves a spot on this list because of its entertainment and food scene. Not to mention the outdoor adventures that are perfect during December!

Perfect for a long weekend away in December, Las Vegas is home to countless entertainment opportunities. Get concert or show tickets and you’ll be sure to see top-notch performances!

Of course there’s gambling and clubs, but also plenty of things to do that don’t include being on The Strip your entire trip. For some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights, check out Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . A timed entry reservation is required in December. Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trails!

Or enjoy one of the many day trips from Las Vegas. Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam are cool to see in person. And if you’re really up for some cool sights, be sure to do a Las Vegas to Zion National Park day trip for incredible canyon views!

Las Vegas is an excellent destination for December, and also one of the top warm winter vacations in the US !

28. Gulf Shores, Alabama (must-see for warm places to visit in USA in December)

Average temp:  high 66, low 47

Okay, if you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway to a warm winter sun destination, then Gulf Shores, Alabama is for you! Offering mild temperatures year-round and some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast , you’ll fall in love with Gulf Shores and its sister city, Orange Beach.

One of the most fun things to do in December in Gulf Shores is a day at The Track. With go karts, mini golf, roller coaster and kiddie rides and an arcade, you could literally get lost here!

Head over to The Wharf at Orange Beach for some serious entertainment and dining. Take a Ferris wheel ride, enjoy some laser tag, grab ice cream or enjoy some water-front dining.

In December, The Wharf hosts a variety of winter and holiday festivities including an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides under twinkling lights and shopping events.

Don’t forget to enjoy some activities on the Gulf! Go for a dolphin cruise, build a sand castle, rent jet skis or go sand crab hunting at Gulf State Park .

29. Big Island, Hawaii (one of the best winter sun destinations)

One of the best warm US destinations in December is the Big Island of Hawaii. People can escape the chilly weather on the Mainland and enjoy a tropical island without needing a passport.

If you’re visiting the Big Island during the holidays, you can enjoy many island-style decorations and community events.

Another fun Big Island activity is stargazing at Mauna Kea. Winter is a great time to do this because the sun sets a bit earlier than in the other seasons, so you won’t have to stay up as late to see the dazzling stars.

December is also whale watching season in Hawaii. It’s best to see them on a whale watching tour .

One of the unique  things to do on the Big Island  is swimming with manta rays. Luckily, these manta ray tours run throughout the winter so you can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The top attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is the only place to see lava in Hawaii. It’s important to check conditions before your trip to see if and where the lava is flowing.

The weather on Kona in December is typically in the low 80s during the day and the upper 60s at night. The Hilo side of the island is usually rainier than the Kona side.

And you should pack warm layers if visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea. There is often snow at the summit of Mauna Kea!

A few great places to stay on the Big Island are the Royal Kona Resort in Kona and the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo.

Recommended by Marcie of Hawaii Travel Spot

30. Catalina Island, California

Average temp:  high 59, low 43

Off the coast of Southern California is Santa Catalina Island, and it definitely deserves a spot on this list of warm places to visit in December in the US. Just an hour ferry ride from Long Beach, getting to Catalina Island is convenient from the LA area.

Visit Catalina Island in early December to enjoy off-season pricing and fewer crowds than later in the month. With temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s, pack layers and enjoy the sunshine on the island!

Find adventure on the water with kayaking, parasailing or a submarine tour. Enjoy the island views by soaring through the air on a zipline or hiking. Try the Avalon Bay Trail with water views, or for more of a challenge, hike the Hermit Gulch Trail.

Downtown Avalon is such a charming harbor town. It’s as cute as ever with brightly colored shops and homes, which reminds me more of Europe than California! Enjoy strolling the Green Pleasure Pier and grabbing some delicious food from a variety of locally-owned restaurants.

31. Phoenix, Arizona

Average temp:  high 68, low 44

One of the best warm US destinations in December is Phoenix! With sunshine and only a few days of rain, it’s perfect weather for indoor and outdoor activities.

Phoenix is a great destination for families, couples and solo travelers of all ages. One of the best places to include on your Phoenix itinerary is Papago Park. Stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see over 50,000 plants!

Have a picnic at the Papago Ponds or hike the short 0.3 miles to Hole in the Rock. Animal lovers will enjoy spending time at the Phoenix Zoo, also located at Papago Park.

The city of Phoenix and neighboring Scottsdale really celebrate the holidays big, too. Enjoy pop-up ice skating events, various festivals and multiple light shows throughout the area, including 2 drive-through animated light shows.

And of course, you can’t come to Phoenix without eating delicious food! For the best Mexican food in town, try Taco Guild or Barrio Cafe. Or enjoy a variety of local restaurants in downtown Phoenix on 7th Street.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or longer vacation, Phoenix is one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

32. Destin, Florida (warm places to visit in December in USA – a must-see destination)

Average temp:  high 64, low 48

Destin, Florida is a beautiful place to visit during December. The weather is perfect for spending time on the beaches, and there are plenty of great activities and attractions to enjoy. 

Destin Harbor is especially festive during this time of year, with decorated boats and lights everywhere.  Every year in December, HarborWalk Village has the Destin Boat Parade with fireworks and activities for everyone. 

The city of Destin also has an annual Christmas Parade which covers most of the town. This parade is a must-see for anyone in town in December and features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. 

Destin Commons and The Village of Baytowne Wharf both have events going on throughout the month of December. Destin Commons has pictures with Santa and Baytowne Wharf has a holiday concert series in December and even an ice skating rink!  

Other places to visit in December in the Destin area include Crab Island, James Lee Beach and Norriego Point.  If you’re looking for state parks, Henderson Beach State Park is great and offers a beautiful beach, walking trails and camping. Topsail Hill State Park is in nearby Santa Rosa Beach and offers many amenities, as well. 

A great place to stay in Destin is The Palms of Destin , which is right in the heart of the city, near Henderson Beach State Park and The Track (go-karts and mini-golf). 

If you’re looking for a fun, festive and warm place to visit in December, be sure to visit Destin, Florida!

Recommended by Wayne of Always on the Shore

Whew! What a list!

Warm places to visit in USA in December

• St. Croix, USVI
• Monterey, CA
• San Juan, PR
• St. George, UT
• Siesta Key, FL
• Temecula, CA
• South Padre Island, TX
• New Orleans, LA
• Disney World, Orlando, FL
• Augusta, GA
• San Diego, CA
• Culebra, PR
• Florida Keys
• St. Thomas, USVI
• Santa Barbara, CA
• Anna Maria Island, FL
• Myrtle Beach, SC
• Joshua Tree National Park, CA
• San Antonio, TX
• Clearwater Beach, FL
• Las Vegas, NV
• Gulf Shores, AL
• Big Island, HI
• Catalina Island, CA
• Phoenix, AZ

Related content you might like: 30 FUN Warm Winter Vacations in the US (You’ll Absolutely Love) 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 2nd of December 2023

So many good ideas! I need a getaway this winter and these are all good options. Now it's just about choosing! HA

Sunday 3rd of December 2023

Haha that's the truth! So glad you found some inspiration here :)

A great list! So many warm winter sun places in the USA, you are really lucky! I have been to Hawaii and would go back there in an instant! LAst time I visited was early December and it was wonderful weather

Friday 1st of December 2023

There's quite a few places on your list that my husband and I would enjoy. We are always on the lookout for someplace to escape the winter snow.

Oh yay Jolayne! Sounds like it's time for a getaway😎

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

What a great list! So many beautiful places to access with a US Passport. We've visited 7 of these in the off season and St. Croix is probably our fave so far!

Wednesday 7th of September 2022

Oh awesome Kathryn! St. Croix is certainly dreamy💛

It's always good to find a comprehensive list like this, especially to escape the cold! I'm off to Puerto Rico for the first time next year & this has really whetted my appetite too!

Ah thanks so much for the compliment, Sue. I hope you love Puerto Rico, it's one of my favorites!!

O. Christine

14 Best Places to Visit in December (USA + International)

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By December, everyone is in full gear for the holiday season or taking holiday vacations. In many places, it’s getting colder outside, the days are short, and the nights are long. You might be seeking places to visit in December in the US (and internationally) for a sunny escape or a cozy winter getaway.

I’ve rounded up a list of some of my favorite getaways for this month and welcome you to use this winter destination list to help you find December travel inspiration!

While the month of December can be a magical time of gathering together with loved ones, it’s also an important time for many of us to focus on self-care.

Some of my top tips for thriving during the winter season are to lean into your favorite holiday activities and travel, even if it’s just in your local area! Make sure you’re keeping wellness and self-care a priority to combat the winter blues.

From winter wonderlands to beach escapes, December offers so many fun and festive travel opportunities. Read on for my list of the best places to go in December.

Best Places To Vacation In December In The USA

Here’s my pick of the best places to visit in December domestically.

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Tahoe is a huge alpine lake in the mountains straddling the California/Nevada border. It’s a popular wilderness destination all year and holds a special place in my heart because I got engaged during a winter visit there! 

Lake Tahoe truly shines in the winter with tons of outdoor winter activities and stunning views of snow-covered mountains. Take a photography tour and capture the beauty of Tahoe’s winter landscapes or hit the slopes at one of its many ski resorts. 

The California side of Lake Tahoe is the place to be if you’re looking for a classic getaway in the mountains. It’s a rugged place with tons of snow, log cabins, and shops. The best thing to do is pack the books you’ve been dying to read and rent a log cabin near the slopes.

If skiing isn’t your thing, no big deal. Snowmobiling is super popular here with tons of rental places around the lake. It’s also fun to explore the smaller lakes and cute mountain towns on the north and south sides of the lake.

2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The historic city of Philadelphia is one of the best places to visit in December in the USA with tons of Christmas activities . Center City feels festive, covered in twinkle lights and garland. Or you can drive out into Greater Philadelphia for special holiday events.

Bundle up, stroll through the streets, and enjoy the festivities. Some of my favorite streets to explore are Jeweler’s Row, South 13th Street, and the historic Elfreth’s Alley with buildings dating back to the 1700s. Or take a walking tour through South Philadelphia to get a bit of history along with the Christmas views. 

A must-do in Philly in December is ice skating , and you’ll find tons of opportunities to get on the ice. Don’t miss Christmas Village in Love Park or the festive vendors at Reading Terminal. 

3. Solvang, California

Solvang is a hidden gem of Southern California. Throughout the year it feels like a giant theme park with its Danish-style architecture and museums. But in December, Solvang gets decked out for the Christmas season.

The entire month of December, Solvang hosts Julefest. It starts with a tree lighting ceremony and parade. There are candlelight tours where you can enjoy the ambiance and listen to carolers singing Christmas songs. Or take a walk down Mission Drive, also called The Village, where you can shop over 150 eateries, Danish bakeries, and artisan shops. You can even go on a food tour to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

4. Holland, Michigan

You might know Holland for its Dutch Heritage and the Tulip Festival in the spring. But its famous Kerstmarkt, a European open-air Christmas market, makes it a top choice for a fun and festive winter destination in the US.

In the winter, the historic downtown area keeps the cobblestone streets snow-free. Enjoy the smell of roasting chestnuts, take in all the Christmas décor, and listen to live music while you pop in and out of specialty shops.

On the weekends, most of the stores in Holland shut down, but don’t worry! You can find all the classic outdoor winter activities around this Lake Michigan town. There are miles of trails for winter hikes, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

5. NYC, New York

If you love the holidays, there’s nothing quite like NYC at Christmas time. It’s one of the best places to visit in December in the USA because it offers all the classics. Like ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park or attending the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center.

Plan on walking past the shop windows on 5th Avenue, including the iconic Macy’s windows with their famous themed displays.

Find one of New York City’s festive Christmas markets to explore or grab a hot chocolate at Bryant Park’s Winter Village. Or head over to the month-long Grand Central Holiday Fair Market. You can even take a holiday lights bus tour from Manhattan. 

6. Kauai, Hawaii

Nicknamed “The Garden Isle,” the island of Kauai in the archipelago of Hawaii is one of the most unique places to visit in the US. It’s the perfect warm weather getaway with December temperatures averaging a balmy 75 degrees.

Take this opportunity to hike the rainbow canyons of Waimea or the verdant mountains of the Na Pali Coast. December is also prime time to go on a whale-watching tour in Kauai! It’s not the best time to go swimming, but you can watch the pros surf off the turbulent beaches of the North Shore.

Just keep in mind that Hawaii has a mini-peak season with holiday visitors during the month of December, so you’ll have plenty of company.

7. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is in central Colorado, nestled into the Rocky Mountains. It’s an old mining town with tons of history, great skiing, and countless alpine activities that make it a fun place to visit in December. 

The city comes alive in the winter with endless activities and events to experience. Shop for gifts at local boutiques. Come for the Christmas light countdown during the first week of December. And if you love ice skating, you’ll find plenty of chances with the Skate with Santa event and the New Year’s Eve Disco Skate.

Hit the slopes at Breckenridge Ski Resort, go on a fat tire bike ride, or snowshoe the trails around town. Or if you’re looking for something simpler, take a walk down Main Street, which looks like a Christmas town scene with colorful Victorian homes covered in snow and lights!

8. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is another warm destination to escape to in December. Give your bones a break from the cold weather and get some sun while you enjoy the festivities.

Puerto Rico does Christmas right, with month-long celebrations, special events, and every building decked out with holiday décor. If you can, spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day here where you’ll experience fun holiday traditions and amazing food.

Make sure to find some coquito (it’s like Puerto Rican eggnog) and tembleque, a jiggly coconut-based dessert that has a long rivalry with flan. And take a walking tour of Old San Juan where the San Sebastián Street Festival happens at the end of the month.

Best Places To visit In December Around The World

Pack your passport and explore these awesome places to visit in December, internationally!

December has always been a popular time for people to visit family and friends in Ghana. It’s a time of celebration in the West African nation. Plus, it’s the dry season, so you can enjoy warm weather while you attend festivals and visit markets.

In recent years, travel to Ghana in December has increased drastically. There are so many festive activities that you’ll find it hard to narrow down which events to go to! Accra is the main hub for events on Ghana’s southern shore. Take a guided city tour and learn about the history of the city while you’re here. 

Held at the end of the month, Afrochella has become popular in the past few years for its cultural, art, food, and music events. If you’re in the country for Christmas, there’s Accra’s Festival of Lights, and you have to experience a Ghanaian New Year’s Eve!

10. Cambodia

If you’re looking for a warm tropical climate to get away from all the holiday to-do, Cambodia might be for you. What makes it one of the top places to visit in December is the warm (but not too warm) weather that’s perfect for all the amazing outdoor activities you’ll find in Cambodia.

Take time to visit the massive Angkor Wat in the northwest part of the country. Or head to Siem Reap for a quad bike tour of the countryside.

Cambodia is also home to a traditional, holistic spa practice called Khmer that focuses on gentle, relaxing treatments that are effective for all types of people. You’ll find dozens of different Khmer spas in the country’s large cities, like the woman-owned Sra Thnam in Siem Reap.

11. Argentina

It’s finally summer in Argentina , and it’s a popular time to head to Patagonia or Ushuaia, which are impassable most of the year. As the 2nd largest country in South America, Argentina has the Andes mountains, deserts, wetlands with waterfalls, grasslands, and an arctic region. If you’re wondering where to travel in December for a variety of outdoor adventures, it’s a great option.

Go on waterfall hikes in the Lakes District. Try rock climbing or go see the blue ice glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia. If you’re an animal lover, you can even take a penguin-watching boat ride in Ushuaia. 

December is when the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival happens and it’s also not the high season yet, so take advantage of the warm weather and fewer crowds at one of Argentina’s many white sand beaches.

12. Uruguay

Uruguay enjoys a warm, humid December with summer rolling into the subtropical country. On the coast, the capital Montevideo offers rich cultural attractions, an impressive food scene, beautiful historic sites, and white sand beaches. Hop on a bike and take a tour of the city’s highlights with a local guide. 

Punta del Este is a popular destination with tourists, and for good reason. There are fabulous beaches, the hottest clubs, and gorgeous architecture. It’s also an exciting place to be for Christmas and New Year with dancing, parties, and fireworks.

The country’s interior is more rugged with ranches and vineyards (Uruguay makes great Tannat wine). It’s a popular pastime to visit estancias, or ranches, and learn about farm life. You can even take a day tour out of Montevideo to a local estancia and learn how to ride a horse like a gaucho.

13. Germany

Hands down, Germany is one of the best places to visit in December. It’s Christmas central, with many Western traditions of the season coming from Europe, and more specifically, Germany!

If you’re coming for the world-famous Christmas markets, head to Berlin, with its 80 different markets across the city. Or go to the magical market in Heidelberg that’s next to a skating rink with medieval buildings all around.

Head south to the German Alps for all kinds of wintery outdoor activities. There’s of course skiing, tobogganing, and sleigh rides through the snow. And December is a wonderful time to enjoy the toasty-warm thermal baths and wellness spas in and around Baden-Baden. Or to take a winter cruise around Cologne.

14. Barbados

Barbados’ weather doesn’t get any better than in December with warm, sunny, dry days. Go earlier in the month (before the peak season really hits) for fewer crowds and lower prices. Explore the streets of Bridgetown with all its historic cultural sites. Or see an even older Barbados by visiting the fishing village of Speightstown. Or go on a kayaking tour and explore three shipwrecks just off the coast of Carlisle Bay. 

Enjoy the amazing weather with a visit to some of Barbados’ most beautiful beaches. Bathsheba Beach on the North Shore is a must if you surf. Take in the ocean views by walking the boardwalk on the south shore. And on a Friday or Saturday, plan to go to the Oistins Fish Fry for a great time!

Best Place To Vacation In December

Embrace the holiday season or get away from the hustle and bustle by traveling to one of the best places to visit in December in the USA and internationally. You can find winter wonderlands or forget it’s snowing at home with a sunny tropical retreat.

December travel is a great way to learn about new cultures, try new foods, and experience new traditions. And even as you celebrate together, it’s an important time to slow down and check in with yourself. Find opportunities to honor yourself and enjoy this time of year the way that’s best for you.

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18 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

There are three main types of December travelers: the snowbird , looking to combat goosebumps with a little warmth and sunshine; the ski aficionado , searching for the best slopes; and the holiday lover , searching for a fun, festive spot to enjoy their winter vacation .

With a vast array of climates and terrain, the USA boasts a bevy of exciting places to visit in December. From warm-weather wonders like Florida, Hawaii, and California to snow-laden mountain locales boasting the top ski resorts in the United States to big cities like New York and Las Vegas, you'll have a lot of choices when planning your December vacay.

Plan your travels with our list of the best places to visit in the USA in December.

2. Miami, Florida

3. new york city, new york, 4. salt lake city, utah, 5. u.s. virgin islands, 6. las vegas, nevada, 7. pasadena, california, 8. phoenix, arizona, 9. charleston, south carolina, 10. washington d.c., 11. anchorage, alaska, 12. key west, florida, 13. breckenridge, colorado, 14. new orleans, louisiana, 15. santa fe, new mexico, 16. stowe, vermont, 17. savannah, georgia, 18. st. augustine, florida.

One of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December is Hawaii. Its tropical breezes, ample sunshine, bathwater-warm ocean waves, captivating scenery, and beaches make this an ideal place to relax on island time.

There are several islands from which to choose, and you can vacation on one or plan to visit several in the same trip. The more time you can spare, the more awesome your Hawaiian holiday will be.

The island of Oahu is a great starting point, especially if you stay in the capital of Honolulu . Relax on Waikiki Beach , visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial , and enjoy the urban scene.

The island of Maui has a nice combination of activity and solitude, with golf courses; Wailea Beach; and the dormant volcano Mount Haleakala, where you can witness a spectacular sunrise.

The Big Island has many natural attractions and outdoor activities , like Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Kaunaoa Beach, and Akaka Falls State Park.

The small island of Kaui is the oldest island and the ideal spot for quiet and romantic vacations. It is also known for its many tropical waterfalls, gorgeous hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

Lanai is another small island with remote natural spots that is not as touristy as the other islands.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hawaii

If you are looking for a warm destination with plenty of activity in December, Miami, Florida will fit the bill. Miami has a festive scene in the winter, with holiday performances like The Nutcracker and the magical lights that decorate Zoo Miami .

There are lots of local beach events, so you get the best of both worlds by combining the holiday festivities with warm Florida weather. If you do decide to skip the cold locales by spending your holidays beachside, you will be in good company. It's a popular idea, and seeing the festive holiday lights and decorations in the palm trees will be the perfect change of scenery.

All the best Miami attractions also include options like boating and visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens . Since you do not have to worry about snow in December in Miami, you can explore the local neighborhoods, like Little Havana and the Miami Design District.

Many snowbirds from the north retreat to Florida for the winter, so you will want to plan your lodging far in advance. If you are particular to a favorite section of the Miami beaches , it is best to book lodging where you will spend the majority of your time.

New York City is one of the most festive destinations to visit in December, and some would say it's the best time to visit New York . Bundle up and head out onto the downtown streets to see the holiday store window displays, or catch a performance of the famous Rockettes. Be sure to stop by Rockefeller Square to see the iconic Christmas tree.

There is never a dull moment in New York City , even during the winter. Many people visit New York City in December just to do their holiday gift shopping at the famous department stores and Christmas markets , and to see the many festivals during the holiday season. A must-experience is ice skating at Central Park with the spectacular New York City skyline in the background.

If you end up blowing your budget on presents, you can still catch a Broadway show for a reduced price by hitting the ticket office a few hours before the performance to see if last-minute bargain tickets are available.

Since snow storms are unpredictable in December in the northeast, you should plan a little extra time and flexibility in your itinerary in case of travel delays. Save the extra-cold days for museum visits (there's plenty!) when you can stay warm inside and only go out for short periods at a time.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Not everyone wants to escape the cold in December. In fact, for avid skiers, December is prime time to hit the slopes and ski resorts near Salt Lake City . There are nearly a dozen ski resorts in Utah's Wasatch Mountains, which are just a short drive from Salt Lake City. The ski slopes are equipped to accommodate both novice and advanced skiers.

If you prefer to just look at the snowcapped mountains instead of traversing them, that is an option, too. Salt Lake City has many festive holiday events in December, like horse-drawn carriage rides through Temple Square , which is adorned with holiday lights.

You can also shop in small boutiques for unique gifts. You can experience a vintage Salt Lake City holiday by visiting the This Is The Place Heritage Park, which showcases life and the holidays in the 1800s in Utah during the month of December.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salt Lake City

For a Caribbean vacation in the USA in December, the Virgin Islands are a no-brainer. The islands of Saint Croix , Saint Thomas , and Saint John are United States territories and have tropical natural landscapes perfect for a mid-winter getaway. Beach days and snorkeling will top your to-do list, as well as hitting some of the natural park locations on the islands.

St. Thomas is the most populated of the three islands since it has a cruise ship port, so while there are many tours and activities available, you will be sharing the sandy beaches with many other December tourists.

St. Croix is the largest of the islands and has many cultural attractions. St. John is the smallest and most natural, with great snorkeling, hiking, tropical plants, and untouched beaches.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

Many December travelers in the USA are attracted to the lights and warm temperatures that are guaranteed in Las Vegas . You will find all of the normal flare, with an overload of sights and sounds along the Vegas Strip and a twist of festive December décor. Many of the hotels feature elaborate holiday decorations with an abundance of flowers and lights.

Besides the great shopping in Las Vegas, there is plenty of December entertainment to enjoy. One of the most beautiful spots to visit is the Botanical Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates . The state's largest cactus garden features light displays (sometimes in 3-D) that will put you into the holiday spirit.

With the mild December temperatures in Las Vegas, you can even enjoy spending a winter day poolside at your hotel.

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas

If you are looking for warm weather and a unique experience for your December vacation, you can head to Pasadena, California, where the city is preparing for the famous Tournament of Roses Parade . With Southern California temperatures, it is possible to spend one day at the beach and the next day taking part in one of the biggest events in the city.

Deco Week happens at the end of December as Rose Parade participants make their final tweaks to the elaborate rose-covered floats. You can volunteer to help with those final preparations. If you do plan to head to Pasadena to take part in this annual tradition, book far in advance to hold your spot.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Pasadena, CA

December is a fabulous month to visit Phoenix, especially if you're a fan of the outdoors. Popular winter activities include hiking , golfing, biking, rock climbing, and camping . Shopping is another fun activity, as is museum-hopping.

As for the weather, you'll definitely be pleased. With little rain and highs in the upper-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit, you won't need to pack a parka or run the risk of sweating through your wrinkle-free travel shirt. The extra room in your suitcase means you'll have plenty of space for the finds you'll grab at holiday markets.

While in town, be sure to visit the Desert Botanical Garden , skate on the ice rink at CityScape , and tour the Heard Museum . Glendale Glitters is a fun, festival-type event in nearby Glendale, featuring thousands of holiday lights, music, food, and other activities on the weekends throughout December.

• Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Phoenix, AZ
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Phoenix

Charleston in December is a refreshing sight. While cool (highs hover around 60, and lows can drop to 25), this old-world Southern gem is so lovely and charming, it will warm your spirit. And if the weather turns, you can always head indoors, to the South Carolina Aquarium , Charleston Museum , or Old Slave Mart Museum .

Make time to wander around the captivating Historic District . Picturesque homes and churches that were built centuries ago; cobbled alleyways; and gnarled, twisting oak trees make it easy to feel romantic. Feeling extra amorous? Hop in for a ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

Make the most of the lack of humidity with a visit to the Middleton Place Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, or Magnolia Plantation & Gardens . December plays host to an array of lights shows and holiday markets. The Holiday Festival of Lights , for instance, begins mid-November and lasts until January.

Read More: Top Attractions in Charleston, SC

Though the nation's capital is generally snow-covered in December it is one of the best places to visit at the end of the year for a number of reasons: A winter trip to Washington D.C. is ideal for getting cheap rates on hotel rooms and for fewer crowds at attractions in the city , which can be challenging during the busy summer tourist season.

The other reason to go to D.C. in December is that most of the Smithsonian museums are indoors, so it is easy to visit many of them during your visit. Washington D.C. is beautifully decorated in December for the holidays, especially the White House. There are lots of holiday activities around the city, from walking tours to seeing the national Christmas tree.

December in D.C. offers some things that you just can't experience any other time of the year. Plan some time to see the national Christmas tree near the White House, which is illuminated just after Thanksgiving; the Wharf District holiday boat parade, which happens in early December with dozens of festively decorated boats floating along Washington Channel; and the Winternational global market, which has booths hosted by international embassies, with crafts for sale from their respective countries.

Many people head for warmer weather in December, but it is a great month to head north to Alaska. December is in the middle of peak season for viewing the Northern Lights , so it is easy to find a tour to see them. You can also take a scenic ride from Anchorage to Fairbanks on the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train .

Another way to take in Anchorage in December is by taking a dogsledding trip, hitting the slopes, watching for wildlife, or taking a glacier trek. There are a number of museums in Anchorage to visit when you need a break from the cold. Otherwise, put on the layers and experience Anchorage during this magical time of the year.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

The tranquil waters and key lime pie in Key West in December will almost make you forget that it is even wintertime. That is why it is one of the best places to go in December. As you might expect from this warm-weather destination, the holidays are showcased on the water, with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Historic Seapor t and offshore excursions to clear up any winter blues.

You can take a tour of the Victorian mansions in Key West, which are elegantly decorated with wreaths and holiday décor. If you feel like doing nothing but sitting on the beach for your December getaway, you can do that, too. Bear in mind that Key West is a popular winter spot, so you will pay a premium for hotels and airline tickets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

December means ski season in Breckenridge , so it is one of the best places to go for some downhill adventure. While some of the warm-weather destinations will see crowds in December, Breckenridge will, too, but it is the place to be if you are looking for quality winter skiing.

Hotel and resort rates will be at a premium, but you can usually package them with lift tickets for the duration of your stay. When you're not carving through the white powder on the slopes, you can enjoy the festive scene in town, where the small shops along Main Street are decked out for the holidays. Breckenridge gets into the holiday spirit, which is why it is considered one of the best Christmas towns in Colorado .

Though you will have plenty of company in Breckenridge in December, there are nearly 3,000 acres of ski areas, so there is enough space to accommodate the rush of winter travelers.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado

The festive city of New Orleans is a great December vacation destination, where you can enjoy the warmer weather, walk through the city streets and the French Quarter , and leave before the influx of Mardi Gras revelers start to arrive in the following months. December weather is warm, but it is not the stifling heat that you would experience in the summer, so you can enjoy it more comfortably.

There are many holiday festivals and over-the-top light and decorative displays throughout the city to enjoy in December, including illuminated art pieces at Lafayette Square. The Roosevelt Hotel is another must-see, with 50 themed and decorated Christmas trees and thousands of holiday lights decorating the historic hotel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

The southwestern city of Santa Fe is a great getaway in December for those who want to lay low in a small, artsy location. The city is rooted in Native American culture. The historic buildings and small shops are fun to stroll through as you buy local artwork ranging from paintings to jewelry.

Santa Fe is a nice place to escape from the cold and snow and is known for its many health retreats and relaxing spa resorts. If you still want to see the snow, you can head into the mountains for a day of skiing.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Santa Fe

For some December travelers, especially those looking for a romantic vacation in one of the best small towns in Vermont , hunkering down in a cozy bed-and-breakfast or cottage with several feet of snow outside might be appealing. If so, then Stowe, Vermont is where you need to spend a holiday. December is cold in Stowe, but that is part of the charm for a getaway filled with fireplaces and hot chocolate.

You can still spend your days outdoors by layering up and hitting the ski slopes , snowshoeing, or taking a dog-sledding adventure before returning to your cozy accommodations. December in Stowe is marked with traditional holiday parades, celebrations, and tree lightings in the center of town.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

You'll want to pack a sweater when visiting Savannah in December. With highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s, you may want to block the nightly (or daytime) chill. That won't stop you from fully enjoying this Georgian wonderland.

Peppered with historic mansions; luxurious parks; and picturesque, moss-draped trees; this idyllic beauty is even more magical when dressed for the holidays in December. Head to River Street during the first weekend of December for music, treats, and shopping. You'll find handmade stocking stuffers and other creative gifts from these unique vendors.

Savannah's Lighted Christmas Parade is another holiday must-see that takes place during the first weekend of December . It includes a tree lighting ceremony, caroling, dancing, and more on Tybee Island.

When you aren't busy getting festified, visit the area's historic homes, museums, and the large and lush Forsyth Park .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

St. Augustine is a lovely place to visit at all times of the year, although it can get unbearably hot during summer. In December, though, this historic Floridian gem really comes to life. A Sunshine State marvel, St. Augustine lies on the northeast coast and offers visitors archeological masterpieces along with soft, sandy beaches.

One of the best Christmas towns in Florida , this town literally jingles and sparkles during December. The annual Night of Lights festival runs from mid-November through January and features over three million lights swirling their way around town. It's incredibly charming, even if you aren't into holiday festivities.

Hop on the Old Town Trolley, explore Castillo de San Marcos, go fishing in the surf , or lounge on the beach at Anastasia State Park. You'll have fewer crowds to fight, but with temps in the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit, you may not be tempted to play in the water all day.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in St. Augustine, FL

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More Winter Travel Ideas : Many of the best places to visit in December are also going to be the most expensive. If you are on a budget, you can consider some of the cheap places to travel in December or specifically cheap Christmas holiday destinations . If warm weather is calling you, then you might consider the beaches in California or the Caribbean as options.

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Where to travel in December in the US

A gingerbread city, a new ski lodge, and more..

Hot or cold? When you travel in December, you can easily go either way. Start a new family tradition by spending the holidays somewhere new, like on the beach in Florida or on the slopes of Colorado. Or, treat yourself to a quick weekend getaway in between all the holiday parties, school concerts, and other December hustle and bustle. Below, our top picks for December vacations in the US.

Copper Mountain, CO

For the snow-obsessed.

Average temps: 29°F high; 3°F low

The stoke is high at Copper Mountain , a ski area perched high in the Rockies just an hour-and-a-half west of Denver . This winter, the resort is unveiling The Aerie, a beautiful new 25,000-square-foot lodge that offers 270-degree views of the surrounding Gore and Ten Mile mountain ranges. Situated at 11,200 feet above sea level, the lodge is home to a food hall, a coffee shop, and a high-end restaurant called Forage and Feast.

Ski Copper’s 2,538 acres of family-friendly terrain yourself, or watch the pros at two gravity-defying events in December: an Olympic-qualifying contest on Copper’s 22-foot halfpipe and a big air freeski and snowboard competition. Both are free to watch, and spectating feels like one big party.

Take a break from the slopes and hit the tubing hill, where you can glide, spin, and bump down groomed runs, then ride back to the top on a magic carpet lift. Cooper also has an impressive “Snow Maze” and a snow play and sledding zone that’s ideal for families.

More to explore

For cold-weather superfans

Average temps: 25°F high; 11°F low

You don’t have to travel all the way to Bergen, Norway , to experience Pepperkakebyen, the beloved annual tradition of building an entire town out of gingerbread. Since 2011, Duluth has constructed its own gingerbread city each winter, and you can see it for yourself at the Nordic Center of Duluth .

The similarities don’t stop there: Like much of Scandinavia, Duluth embraces the snow and ice with activities like cross-country and downhill skiing , dog sledding , and snowshoeing . You can even book a Nordic sauna and cold plunge session.

Warm up with a holiday tour of Glensheen Mansion , an elaborately decorated, 39-room estate built in the early 1900s. For an extra special experience, reserve its candlelight tour, when the mansion is illuminated by the glow of 27 Christmas trees and lots of candles.

Travelers say: “The [Glensheen] ticketing office sells a Treasure Hunt book that is very nicely put together. It only cost a couple bucks and kept [my kids] occupied. Each page is labeled with the name of a room and the picture of something in each room that they have to find. …Once they've found all the pictures, they can go to the gift shop and receive a stamp on the booklet and a coin. I think there were some temporary tattoos as well.”—@ Andrewrue

White Sands National Park, NM

For off-the-beaten-path adventurers.

Average temps: 58°F high; 29°F low

Venture way down south in New Mexico and you’ll feel like you’ve landed on another planet.

White Sands National Park protects 145,000 acres of rolling white sand dunes that formed between 7,000 and 10,000 years ago. The park’s rugged, otherworldly landscape is the perfect place to escape from the stressors of daily life: Camp under the stars, sled down the dunes, take long hikes, and practice your photography. It’s especially stunning at sunset, when the sky glows orange and pink above the sand. Rangers even lead guided “sunset strolls” on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Travelers say: “Be certain to drive all the way to the back of the loop [in White Sands] so you can see the larger dunes and vistas of white upon white upon white with little vegetation. Just make sure that you are keeping track of where you are walking so you can find your way back to your car. You could easily get turned around while walking on the dunes.”—@ tfabtrips

The closest town is Las Cruces , an artsy, eclectic community at the base of the Organ Mountains. Do not skip the weekly Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market , which takes place every Saturday on seven blocks of downtown. Shop Southwest-inspired pottery, jewelry, photos, and paintings, as well as fresh veggies, herbs, eggs, and locally raised meats to take back to your vacation rental.

Avila Beach, CA

For laidback sightseers.

Average temps: 65°F high; 43°F low

December is part of Avila Beach ’s low season, so you can find great deals on lodging and smaller crowds in this San Luis Obispo County jewel. And since temperatures are slightly cooler at this time of year, it’s the perfect month to soak in the soothing mineral waters at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa or Avila Hot Springs .

Rent a kayak from Avila Beach Paddlesports , then paddle over to get a look at Point San Luis Lighthouse , which has been standing since 1890. Paddle back, then stroll down the pier to Mersea's Seafood Restaurant , where you can snack on clam chowder (white New England or red Manhattan-style) while watching sea lions and sea otters in the water below.

Travelers say: “The view is nothing short of spectacular. We were there on a beautiful clear blue sky breezy day.”—@ StephandBaxter

Don’t miss a stop at Avila Valley Barn , a rustic, year-round farmstand with seasonal fruits and veggies, pies and other baked goods, and tons of cute gifts and decor. In December, it also transforms into a Christmas tree farm. Post up at the Avila Village Inn , a 2023 Travelers’ Choice Award winner.

St. Petersburg, FL

For artsy beach bums.

Average temps: 72°F high; 57°F low

Ditch the December chill and escape to St. Petersburg for a getaway filled with sunshine, art, and wildlife. Flop down on the soft sands of St. Pete Beach —which was named a “Best of the Best” beach in our Travelers' Choice Awards—and take a dip in the warm, clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Another great option is Treasure Island Beach , where you’ll often see beach-goers flying kites or kayaking.

When you’ve had enough sun for the day, cool off with a walk through the Dalí Museum , an architecturally-stunning venue dedicated to Spanish artist Salvador Dalí. Or, admire the whimsical blown-glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly at the Morean Arts Center , for which the renowned American artist created a towering, 20-foot-tall custom piece.

Dahlonega, GA

For hallmark movie fanatics.

Average temps: 52°F high; 30°F low

Plan a girls’ trip to Dahlonega —just an hour from Atlanta—but don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re in a Hallmark Christmas movie. This small Georgia town near the Blue Ridge Mountains is so picturesque that three have actually been filmed here.

Every winter, Dahlonega hosts a month-long Old Fashioned Christmas, complete with twinkling lights, Santa visits, horse-drawn carriage rides, shopping, a parade, and decked-out Christmas trees. (This year’s fête runs from November 24 through December 31.)

Festivities aside, Dahlonega also has a thriving wine scene. Book a private wine tour or join a group outing with DSH Transportation so that everyone in your crew can sip and sample without worrying about the logistics.

Travelers say: “Sam, our driver/tour guide [from DSH], was fabulous! We went to several wineries and wine tastings ( Monteluce was our fav) and to a bourbon/whiskey tasting at Big Creek (Andrea was fantastic). So much scenery. The private vehicle has plenty of space and large windows for viewing. Never felt rushed.”—@ traseaw

Top 14 Amazing Places to Visit in December in the USA

Whether you are looking for beautiful warm winter sunshine, snowy mountain adventures, or just oodles of Christmas magic, there is the perfect place to discover. To help you choose and from my time traveling around in the holiday season, here are my favorite spots to explore…

1. Leavenworth, Washington 

You might not think of Washington State as an ideal location for a quintessential Bavarian holiday, but think again! Nestled in the snowy peaks of The Cascade Mountains, just over a hundred miles north of Seattle, is the stunning little town of Leavenworth. 

I love that it’s a perfect replica of a Bavarian town, complete with German beer, Bavarian cuisine, reindeer and Christmas markets , and a unique Nutcracker Museum . I’m a huge fan, especially this time of year!

The town has a multitude of activities on offer all year round, but this month, you get to enjoy the crisp winter wonderland and all that it entails. I’d suggest maybe snowmobiling and skiing, of course! If you love kitsch, I think you’ll love this picturesque little town!

• Average temperatures in December – from 1°C to -6°C

2. Avila Beach, California

If you’re a little Vitamin D-starved in your state during the winter months and are longing for a beach fix in a warmer climate, then I personally think the laid-back beach resort town in California is a great choice! 

Avila Beach is home to some of the warmest temperatures in this month and averages around 18 degrees. 

Okay, swimming in these months may not be to everyone’s taste, but there are still plenty of other things to do in this laid-back, pretty town this month.

I highly recommend surfing, hiking, cycling, or paddle boarding. Alternatively, I would suggest visiting the famous lighthouse or even going wine tasting. 

• Average temperature  – 18 degrees

3. Durango, Colorado

I think outdoor enthusiasts will love Durango, an old Wild West town with stunning views of the rugged San Juan Mountains. The interestingly named Purgatory Resort offers 1605 acres of terrain, with trails for skiers of all levels and abilities.

If skiing isn’t for you then no fear, there are numerous trails for hiking and biking too. I recommend heading out into the Weminuche Wilderness and The Animas River Gorge for climbing and hiking galore!

You can easily stroll around the Piedra Falls trail or challenge yourself with The Highland Mary Lakes Cunningham Gooch Trail, which takes in the Needle Range and some high-altitude lakes!

I would also suggest enjoying the views from a cozy cafe or sipping a craft beer from one of Durango’s six brewing companies! 

I’d highly recommend a ride on the historic Rio Grande Railway to learn about the ancestral Pueblo tribe in the Mesa Verde National Park, find out about the Railroad at the interactive Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Museum or about the town’s more underground past on a Horsefly History Tour.

• Average temperatures – 5 to -10 degrees

4. Waikiki, Hawaii

This is a great destination option for a warm and beautiful winter vacation. Temperatures average around a pretty hot 28 degrees during the day, prices are low, and the crowds don’t arrive until the holidays if you head there at the beginning of December.

Alternatively, spend the seasonal holidays here and enjoy a beautiful, warm Christmas vacation surrounded by paradise-like scenery.

Waikiki is famous for its incredible beaches, surfing, huge range of hotels, and vibrant neighborhood, so I think it’s a great choice for a family vacation this month.

My other favorite highlights include its designer stores and a chic waterfront area filled with cocktail bars and upscale dining. I would also highly recommend going to a hula show! 

• The average temperature – 28 degrees

5. New York

We can all picture iconic winter scenes in the Big Apple from numerous films and TV shows, but in my opinion, nothing can compare to experiencing them first-hand!

My favourite things are enjoying hot apple cider at Bryant Park after a nostalgic skate on the city’s only free ice rink or a snowy stroll around Central Park.

I think you must include a visit to the famous Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center (a tradition that has been running since the Great Depression) and Santaland at Macy’s…immortalized in Miracle on 31st Street and later The Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris. I know none of these things are under the radar, but it’s New York , so what the hell!

Of course, if you really want to get hip, I suggest shopping in the historic Meat Packing District and visiting cozy bars and cafes in East Village.

To escape the crowds of Manhattan, I recommend crossing the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoying low-key art galleries, farm-to-table foodie spots, vintage flea markets, or sledging in Prospect Park! 

• Average temperature – 7 degrees

6. Siesta Key, Florida

For a beautiful, warm vacation, I personally think Siesta Key, Florida, is a great option for those looking for some winter sun in the US.

This is a stunning barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico with quite a quirky vibe and a gorgeous public beach that has been voted the best in America – twice!

A great place for a family vacation, it has shops and cafes in Siesta Key Village, shallow waters, a playground, and tennis courts. My favorite highlights include the Point of Rocks, limestone outcroppings surrounding tidal pools and coral reefs, and Turtle Beach, which has boat ramps and picnic areas. 

The water is swimmable this time of year if you’re a hardy swimmer, but now and again, a very hot day will heat the waters to more comfortable temperatures, so I’d recommend waiting for those times! 

• Average temperature – 23 degrees

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

The town is of great historical significance, being the place where, in 1776, George Wythe signed the American Declaration of Independence.

It is also the home of America’s second oldest University after Harvard; William and Mary College was established in 1693 and still accounts for a large slice of the town’s population.

I love that the historic center of Williamsburg is now a living history museum with its old colonial buildings perfectly restored and costumed employees serving you in its shops and cafes.

In my opinion, at Christmas time, the picture-perfect town becomes even more beautiful as twinkling lights and decorations utterly transform it.

Coated in a layer of powdery snow, it seems like a fairytale to behold! History and architecture are the main draws, and the Art Museums of Williamsburg display rare examples of Native American art and a fine selection of artifacts from the town’s colonial history.

• The average temperature – 12 degrees

8. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

If low-key is your thing, then this probably won’t be your cup of tea, but if you want an all-out festive Christmas extravaganza, head on over! I’m a huge fan of this place! 

During the Christmas Season, Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville , Tennessee, is transformed with more than 3 million lights, ice tunnels, an indoor ice skating rink, grottos, scavenger hunts…the list goes on! It’s for all these reasons and more that this resort wows so many of its visitors.

When you have exhausted everything the resort offers, I recommend heading into Nashville and soaking up the vibes of the legendary ‘Music City’, which will be filled with twinkling lights and festivities to suit every Christmas palette! 

• The average temperature – 11 degrees

9. Aspen, Colorado

Probably the most famous winter resort in the country, Aspen has long been on the map thanks to the numerous celebrities that holiday there.

In my opinion, the iconic Alpine town nestled with the slopes of Aspen Mountain is a real winter wonderland and a magical place to spend the festive season! 

Think cosy log cabins, hot toddies, and full-on Victoriana with lights, trees, and carollers galore. The town caters to all skiing abilities…novices and families should head to Snowmass or Buttermilk Mountains, and more advanced skiers will enjoy the challenges of Aspen Mountain and The Highlands.

Of course, if skiing is not your thing, there are numerous other snowy delights on offer, including snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and ice skating at one of the beautiful outdoor rinks. I also love the snowplough tours, the renowned restaurants and bars, screenings, and boutique shopping! 

• The average temperature  – 2 to -12 degrees

10. Crystal Beach, Texas

For a low-key but warm break, I personally think this is a great choice! Temperatures average around 18 degrees the day this month, so it’s warm but not blistering hot, and this place is much less crowded than some of the other popular beach resorts in Texas.

It also prides itself on being very eco-friendly, so in my opinion, it’s a great choice for a more discerning traveler. Here, you can expect wide open spaces, beautiful views, seagulls and dolphins.

The beautiful, unspoilt sandy beach stretches seven miles, and there are several great accommodation options, so it’s also a good choice for a warm family vacation. Here, you’ll find a variety of beach cabins, some great inns, restaurants, and hotels. 

The water may not be warm enough to swim comfortably this time of year, but I’d recommend catching a few fairly warm rays on the beach and having a paddle, too! A ferry departs from Galveston to Crystal Beach 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it easy to access the area.

• The average temperature – 18 degrees

11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

The first Christmas celebrations at the breathtaking Biltmore Estate in historic Asheville occurred on Christmas Eve in 1895.

Today, the celebrations start in early November with the raising of a massive Christmas tree, and then the house and grounds are awash with more than 100 hand-decorated trees and twinkling lights! 

I love that thousands of poinsettias and fresh evergreen garlands adorn the grand hallways, creating a cozy vibe accompanied by live musicians singing festive carols.

The town’s cafes and restaurants serve delicious seasonal fare, and I highly recommend visiting Antler Village Winery as it launches its annual sparkling white and becomes a festival of illumination where Santa visits the bandstand every weekend!

I would also recommend the workshops, which teach how to make your decorations, and the candlelit evening tours, which allow you to stroll freely around the house lit by candles and crackling log fires. Everywhere you look, it’s all about Christmas, so Grinches need not apply!

• The average temperature  – 10 degrees

12. Vermont

Movies like ‘White Christmas’ have made Vermont famous for its beautiful winter landscapes, and I think with good reason! This month, the quaint villages and historic towns of Vermont are transformed by all things Christmassy – doors are adorned with wreaths, trees and homes are illuminated, town squares swish with ice skaters, and The Polar Express sounds its horn and sets off for the North Pole! 

I personally think the whole state is like a Christmas Card illustration with cozy picture book towns nestling between snow-laden spruces.

I love that it comes alive with locals and visitors eating, drinking, and making merry! The pretty town of Woodstock also hosts the Annual Wassail Weekend, a fantastic celebration of folklore, culture, and everything Yuletide with carol singers, craft workshops, and open houses.

Nearby Manchester is quintessentially Vermont and positively twinkles at Christmas! Of course, all the usual winter activities are on offer, too, from skiing to the fabulous Ice Skating Trail at Lake Moray. If you feel like you’ve somehow lost the Christmas Magic, I recommend a trip to Vermont! 

• Average temperature  – 3.5 degrees

13. Solvang, California

Founded by Danish Immigrants in 1911 I love that Solvang is a unique little glimpse of Nordic life in the middle of Santa Barbara County California!

From humble beginnings, the themed town has grown over the years to become the huge draw that it is today, and in my opinion, the Julefest celebrations, which begin in November and carry through to December, will melt even the iciest of hearts! 

Visit this month, and you’ll find the beautiful streets lined with quaint Danish-style buildings housing delicious bakeries, hygge cafes, and boutique shops. At Christmas, they can be adorned with twinkling fairy lights and all the festive trimmings you might expect in Copenhagen! 

Christmas Markets, Candlelight tours, and Caroling bring the streets to life, and I highly recommend getting involved as much as possible.

There are tram rides, a tree lighting ceremony, and finally, I would suggest not missing the big Julefest Parade, where Christmas floats travel through the town, and Mr And Mrs Claus put in an appearance! 

• Average temperature – 20 degrees

14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

What better place to spend this month than a town called Bethlehem?

Every year, this Pennsylvanian gem is adorned with twinkling lights and decorations. I love that the historic streets are lined with Christmas huts selling artisan products and the famous Christkindlmart, a large indoor market perfect for unique gifts.

One of the quirkiest traditions in Bethlehem is The Living Advent Calendar, which takes place every evening at 5.30 pm at The Goundie House, so I highly recommend not missing this! 

Aside from all the Christmas loveliness, Bethlehem is also home to the oldest continuously operating bookshop in the country, The Moravian Bookstore, founded in 1745 and lies in the heart of Bethlehem’s historic district. I’d highly recommend this for bookworms!

• Average temperature  – 5 degrees

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29 of the Best Places to Travel in December (USA Edition)

12/01/2023 by Ashley Yap 1 Comment

With the end of the year comes a new world of travel possibilities. You can spend December fully embracing the chill of the season, or find a warm getaway if that’s more your style! Good thing the United States offers opportunities for travelers of all types, with appealing destinations scattered throughout the country. 

Starting from the West Coast and heading east, here’s a list of the top 29 destinations to visit this December:

Table of Contents

1. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Winter is without a doubt the best time to see the deserts in California . Joshua Tree National Park is  one of the best places to visit in the colder months . The park’s temperatures range on average by December from near 40 degrees Fahrenheit overnight to near 60 by afternoon, which makes daytime hiking and rock climbing infinitely more enjoyable than the unbearable summertime heat. 

Read Next: What to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Deserts make up around a quarter of the state, so there are plenty of others as well.  Check out this BMTM post  for some of the best deserts in California.

2. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada

If you’ve been dying to check out Death Valley (see what I did there?) but are a little nervous about its famously scorching temperatures, consider going in December! All throughout the winter months, the area sees a dip in its usually high temps, making it much more enjoyable for hikers.

Death Valley National Park is home to some seriously out-of-this-world landscapes that you definitely don’t want to miss out on. From the colorful Artist’s Palette to the stunning  Golden Canyon , there’s plenty  to see and do in Death Valley . Even though December is one of the best times to visit this incredible national park, it’s not typically crowded, so you can enjoy some of the best spots without worrying about overwhelming crowds cramping your style.

3. Mendocino County, California

While Mendocino County is famous for having weather reminiscent of eternal spring, December sees chilly temperatures that are cold enough to bundle up for, but warm enough to be able to get outside and enjoy the area’s moody coastline.

Mendocino County is the perfect December getaway for nature lovers and anyone who loves the cozy vibe of the beginning of winter. Fort Bragg is home to the legendary Glass Beach, which gets its name from the layer of colorful sea glass that washes up on its shore. In  Mendocino , you can check out Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, Van Damme State Park, Mendocino Headlands State Park, and other stunning natural areas. Stay at a chic boutique hotel to soak it all in each evening!

4. Truckee, California

Truckee in the winter is a snowy wonderland and absolutely beautiful when the snow settles. You’ll want to check out the lake views at Donner Memorial State Park, hike the Truckee River Regional Park Legacy Trail, and dive in the Emerald Pools swimming hole — it’ll be cold, but so very refreshing. Lake Tahoe and Reno are only day trips away, and Donner Pass is a historic experience to drive through. There’s also fun to be had with snowboarding, skiing, and ice skating!

If you get snowed in though and must spend time indoors, there are plenty of neat museums, breweries, and coffee shops to fill your heart. Check out this amazing list of things to do in Truckee .

5. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho  is one the country’s best-kept secrets, and December is especially a great time to visit the state. Sun Valley gives you the opportunity to see some of the most picturesque winter landscapes  in the United States. Throughout December, the nearby Sawtooth Mountains get  that  much more magical when a new layer of snow decorates the scenery. With fantastic skiing opportunities,  naturally occurring hot springs , and hospitable locals, Sun Valley is one of the most ideal trips for a cozy December getaway.

6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

As the least populated state, Wyoming may be the ideal destination to get some peace and quiet.  Yellowstone National Park is beautiful  no matter what time of year, but especially so during the winter. There’s a reason why  the park is one of BMTM’s bucket list–worthy road trip stops !

Many roads may be closed during the month, but the oen between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance is open all year. Check out the  park’s webpage  for more information.

7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Head 30 miles south of Yellowstone and you’ll find  Grand Teton National Park , which can be enjoyed just as much in December. Most of it is only reachable by cross-country ski or snowshoe during this time of the year, but the isolation is more than worth it.

8. San Juan County, Utah

Many people thinking of December trips may not consider  Utah . Lucky for you (and your wallet!),  there’s so much to explore in the state’s off season . The temperatures in the area dip to highs only in the 40s Fahrenheit and lows in the 20s in December, making the weather chilly but bearable. If you want a trip  full of exploration , San Juan County’s Valley of the Gods is BLM land, meaning you can camp in any of the road pulloffs (provided you leave no trace). If you decide to hike in any of Utah’s national parks, be sure you’re prepared for potentially icy conditions.

9. Moab, Utah

Moab sits between two of  Utah’s best national parks :  Arches  and Canyonlands, so this charming town surrounded by red-rock landscapes is a great pick for December adventurers. Not only can you hit up popular places like Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch without seeing too many crowds, but the chilly weather here isn’t too frigid to put a damper on your trip.

Moab doesn’t get very much snow, but the surrounding La Sal Mountains will likely be completely white this time of year. The color contrast between the white mountains and red-orange rock formations is a stunning sight that you only get in the wintertime.

Find out what else to do in Moab here.

10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

If you want a December full of towering mountains, Colorado is the place to go. For one, the state is known for having the most “fourteeners” (mountains higher than 14,000 feet) in the country. 

While some parks close during this time of the year,  Rocky Mountain National Park  is open year-round. Though you can enjoy your trip here with just snowshoeing gear, there are opportunities for sledding and skiing too. The colder months are also ideal for watching wildlife like elk, moose, and deer. Check out the  park’s page  for more details on the winter activities you can do here. 

Colorado also makes for a  fun road trip  if you want to explore the state during your December trip. 

11. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona , is one of the  United States’ hubs for everything spiritual , but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors in December. If you’re coming from a place that gets super cold in the winter, Sedona is a great escape to warmer temperatures without it being too hot.

Another huge plus of visiting Sedona in December is the laid-back atmosphere and thinner crowds. Head out for a hike to the Seven Sacred Pools or Devil’s Bridge, and you might be able to enjoy some solitude, as there won’t be as many hikers as there are in the warmer months.

Find out what else there is to do in Sedona here .

12. Bisti Badlands Wilderness, New Mexico

Want to see some otherworldly landscapes with names like “Alien’s Throne” and “Dragon Eggs”? Head out to the Bisti Badlands Wilderness in New Mexico for all that and more. This incredible slice of undisturbed nature is a  must-see place in New Mexico  because of its uniqueness. The Bisti Badlands are a whopping 45,000 acres, with no real trails or paths to follow, making it ideal for travelers seeking a truly rugged adventure.

You can visit the Bisti Badlands any time of year and find very few people, but December is especially ideal because of the mild weather and even fewer people. Make sure to bring a 4×4 vehicle and plenty of water!

13. Taos, New Mexico

After the heat of the New Mexican climate fades away, December brings a time of rich cultural activities to the state. Taos combines both the natural and traditional draws of New Mexico, as a historic town located a half-hour drive from mountains ideal for skiing. If you come around Christmas, you’ll be able to see  luminarias  light the streets and parks of the state.

Taos is also a hub for forward-thinking architecture and has an entire community of people with Earthships, a sustainable type of home with all kinds of neat, environmentally friendly features.  Read more about the Taos Earthships here .

Check out this post  for other things to do in New Mexico.

14. Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you like history, Albuquerque might be the best next vacation for you. Definitely take a walk through Old Town, check out the Albuquerque Museum, stay at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm , go to the Petroglyph National Monument, and watch a film at the historic KiMo Theatre.

But there’s plenty more to do if you’re not that into history, like snowshoe the Cibola National Forest , hike the Sandia Mountains, and get a view from above on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

15. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park  is a desert area along the southwest Texan border with Mexico. This park is arguably the best place on this list to stargaze — it  has the least light pollution of any other national park unit in the lower 48 states ! 

The average temperatures in Big Bend range from a nighttime low of 39 degrees to a daytime high of 63 degrees Fahrenheit, though sudden periods of cold weather happen on occasion. According to the park’s website,  the holidays are typically busy , so reservations for accommodations are highly recommended.

16. Fredericksburg, Texas

For a holiday experience with a  German  touch, check out Fredericksburg, home to the largest number of Texas German speakers. If you come in the latter part of December, you’ll be able to  see the town decked out in full Christmas decorations — German Christmas pyramid included!

The town is also around 70 miles from other cities, such as San Antonio and Austin, making for a great roadtrip stop.

17. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans has  so  much to offer beyond the Mardi Gras season. Besides being a great city for solo female travelers , it is just as full of energy in December as in February during Mardi Gras. Definitely go to the Bywater District , and maybe try some delicious vegan food ! Here’s a great itinerary for exploring New Orleans , and a helpful packing list . As a plus, December is during the shoulder season, so you’ll be able to still find relatively good accommodation deals.

18. Florida Keys Road Trip

If you’re craving a sense of freedom, the Florida Keys are the answer. You can drive the entire Overseas Highway and gaze out at the Atlantic Ocean the whole time, hopping from key to key. There’s plenty of things to do in Key Largo , Islamorada , Marathon , Big Pine , and Key West , like sunset sails , snorkeling , and heading to the beaches . It’s America’s own slice of Caribbean paradise, with a special feel. (If you’re traveling solo, here’s everything you need to know .)

Where to Stay in Marathon Where to Stay in Key Largo Where to Stay in Key West

19. St. Augustine, Florida

If you want a December trading snowboards for surfboards, few places fit the bill as perfectly as Florida. During the holiday season, St. Augustine is most known for its  Nights of Lights , a free celebration during which the city is covered in lights! 

In general, you can enjoy Florida’s summer activities during the winter. Whether you want to  learn how to sail in Ft. Myers or  explore Cocoa Beach , the state has a ton to offer throughout the end of the year.

20. Savannah, Georgia

For a quaint Southern getaway,  Savannah  is an ideal destination. Shops selling holiday trinkets fill the hallmark  River Street  in December, offering the festive experience without the intense cold.

As a bonus, head about an hour and a half south to Georgia’s Jekyll Island for its annual  Holly Jolly Jekyll  festival. Throughout December, the island offers activities, ranging from a skating village to an array of light displays.

21. Charleston, South Carolina

Similar to the charm and historic landscape of Savannah,  Charleston  is a relaxing option for travelers this month. The city has a mild climate, giving visitors a slight chill of winter without the dramatic snowfall. Throughout December, the city hosts a celebration called the Holiday Festival of Lights , complete with lights, sculptures, and Santa!

22. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville’s location lets you experience the best of the Appalachian’s winter scenery while keeping the conveniences of the city. Depending on the weather, some parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains may be closed.

But there are more things to do here than just day hike.  Here are a few of the best free and budget-friendly things to do in Asheville . If you’re willing to spend some money, the Biltmore Estate hosts an annual  Christmas at Biltmore  celebration that’s made the city popular during the holiday season.

23. Nashville, Tennessee

Even though much of December is  Nashville ‘s low season, the city doesn’t lose any of its charm. Popular pastimes throughout the month include seeing the Christmas decorations at the  Gaylord Opryland Hotel  and attending the  annual Christmas Parade . If you come at the end of the month, you can catch Music City’s  New Year’s Eve extravaganza .

This is also a fantastic  budget destination in the US , as there are dozens of  free things to do in Nashville .

24. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills is an area in southeastern Ohio with some of the most dramatic topographic features in the Midwest. There are a ton of scenic preserves and parks in the area, the most famous being  Hocking Hills State Park . In December, you may see snow and ice formations along the trails, adding to the beauty of the parks’ hikes.

25. Chicago, Illinois

There’s no denying that winters in  Chicago  can get very cold. However, December doesn’t suffer the brunt of the winter freeze, which makes it an excellent destination if you want to take advantage of some off-season deals. You’ll be able to see some of the city’s main holiday attractions, including light displays at the  Lincoln Park Zoo and the traditional  Christkindlmarket .

Chicago also has tons of  free things to do , so between that and the off-season deals, December is the  perfect time to visit Chicago  on a budget. 

26. New York, New York

If Hollywood has showed us anything, it’s that  New York City  is the quintessential place to spend the holiday season. And how can it not be iconic? From ice skating in the parks to holiday shopping down Fifth Avenue, NYC is a playground of festive activity.

If you’re intimidated by its reputation for being super expensive, consider all of these  free things to do in the Big Apple , which can help offset some of the higher prices on things like food and accommodation.

27. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park , a piece of northeastern coastal land mostly on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, shines in December. Some of its roads close this month, so be aware of the park’s  operating hours and seasons . Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are a few of the popular activities this time of year, along with  ice fishing  (though that is mainly popular during the latter part of winter).

Off the Mainland

28. maui, hawai’i.

There isn’t really a bad time to visit Hawai’i , making it a popular destination for those with time off during the holiday season. Maui is a great spot to explore, especially solo (here are tips for how to experience Maui alone ), with journeys like the  Road to Hana  to keep you busy.

Check out  our Hawai’i guide  for more tips as to how you can spend your December here. Not sure what to pack? We’ve got you covered with this perfect Hawai’i packing list .

29. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Thanks to its location south of the Tropic of Cancer,  Puerto Rico  is in a year-round state of summer. As one of two territories in the Caribbean that US citizens can enter without a passport, Puerto Rico is a perfect option for December travelers wanting to brush up on their Spanish. Most people visiting Vieques Island come to see  Mosquito Bay , one of the five bioluminescent bays in the world. Come out here on a dark night to experience nature’s very own light show.

Regardless of where in the US you are, there is no one way to spend the month of December. With the holiday season in full swing, there’s bound to be a destination that’ll finish your year off in an unforgettable way.

Is there a place you want to visit this December? Let us know!

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09/20/2023 at 2:03 am

All places are perfect

• Last Updated On
• May 30, 2023

35 Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

There’s probably no better way to close out the year than by traveling, especially in December, a beautiful month in the United States.

There are a ton of fantastic destinations to visit in the US in winter.

Whether you’re trying to escape the snow at a warm beach or embrace the cold on a ski trip, this country has everything.

There are countless Christmas cheer and unique events in large and small places to enjoy the festive season.

But, if you prefer an intimate holiday, the USA has something for you, too.

Kickstart your winter adventure by checking out the best places to visit in December in the USA below.

1. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, HI 96708-96793 (808) 270-7230

Maui , also referred to as The Valley Isle, is Hawaii’s second-largest island in the Central Pacific.

Maui is the best choice if you’re seeking warm places to visit in December.

Expect daytime highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and evening lows around the 60s.

And you can unwind on the beaches with golden sand close to Kihei or Lahaina if you’re unsure what to do.

Plus, great snorkeling is accessible here.

Although Maui’s strong trade winds tend to lessen in December, it is still preferable to arrange water activities for the morning when the ocean is calm.

If you like colder weather, go upcountry to Kula, where the air is crisp and refreshing.

Related: Top Maui Restaurants

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style hamlet in central Washington State’s Cascade Mountains.

Like a theme park, its architecture and art transport you to a charming German town as it sits beneath the shadow of the mountains along the Wenatchee River.

The best time to visit Leavenworth is during the Village of Lights Christmas Town festival, “where it’s Christmas every day in December!”

The village is all decked out for the holidays, with fresh evergreen garlands lacing the shops and half a million colorful lights illuminating Front Street Park.

You can hear live holiday music wafting through the air from the pavilion, and snow usually blankets the ground to add that extra enchantment.

Expect to find holiday activities like gingerbread houses, sleigh rides, kids’ crafts, a story corner, sledding, and roasted chestnuts.

Related: Where to Eat in Leavenworth

Related: Best Christmas Vacations For Families

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville , located in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, is a gorgeous city that attracts outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

Asheville is delightful to visit all year round.

However, December is one of the greatest seasons to visit Asheville, even though the region may not be as appealing due to the chilly winter weather.

And if you love Christmas, you will love Asheville.

Their festivities begin with a tree-raising ceremony and provide daytime and candlelit midnight tours of the Biltmore House’s festively adorned chambers.

Holiday activities are also featured in the Antler Hill and Historic Biltmore Village neighborhoods.

However, Asheville has many other beautiful locations to celebrate Christmas besides the Biltmore.

Additionally, the North Carolina Arboretum hosts Winter Lights, and the Omni Grove Park Inn hosts the National Gingerbread House Competition.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville

Related: Dining in Asheville

4. Austin, Texas

Austin , Texas’s state capital, is noted for its diversified live music culture based on country, blues, and rock.

Austin puts on those parades and light shows to show their love for the cold holidays.

Winter is a terrific time to get the party started on the dance floor at a prominent honky-tonk or music venue in Austin, like the Broken Spoke.

The Trail of Lights at Zilker Park, one of Austin’s top public holiday light shows in December, is also held there.

For a stroll beneath its sparkling lights, this occasion draws together businesses, nonprofits, towns, families, couples, and college students.

Recommended Hotel: The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Related: Must Try Restaurants in Austin

5. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a coastal city in Georgia known for its antebellum architecture, well-kept parks, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

If you are looking for the best places to travel in December for the holidays, Savannah is like something out of a Hallmark movie.

Greenery and red ribbons adorn the squares by the Downtown Neighborhood Association.

Furthermore, a vast tree and string lights decorate Broughton Street, and merchants erect a bustling German-style Christmas market along the riverbank.

The most significant way to experience Christmas in Savannah is to stroll through the Old District and enjoy the holiday decorations of the historic homes.

Recommended Hotel: JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

Related: Top Restaurants: Savannah

6. Park City, Utah

Park City , located in Utah’s western state and famous for its ski slopes, is east of Salt Lake City.

Park City, Utah, is among the best US destinations in December if you’re hoping for a white Christmas.

Many holiday events include Snowfest at Park City Mountain, a yearly torchlight parade down the mountain, and even fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

You can also ride the North Pole Express on the Heber Valley Railroad, which is especially well-liked by families with young children.

Or arrange a private, exclusive snowshoeing tour with a guide.

Moreover, Park City’s Main Street is a popular destination for pubs, restaurants , art galleries, and Christmas entertainment.

Recommended Hotel: Park City Peaks

Related: Best Places to Visit During Christmas in The USA

7. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley, CA 92328 (760) 786-3200

Death Valley National Park, which spans eastern California and Nevada, is well-known for Titus Canyon and the salt flats of Badwater Basin.

This national park is situated on the border between California and Nevada and is well-known for its extreme weather.

The world record for the greatest air temperature was set at Death Valley’s aptly named Furnace Creek, also known as the “hottest location on Earth.”

With typical high temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and average low temperatures around 30 at lower elevations, December tends to have much nicer weather.

Winter is the best month to visit Death Valley if you want to avoid crowds and go hiking in cooler weather.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Death Valley

8. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, CO 81611-81612 (970) 925-1940

The Colorado town of Aspen is a well-known destination for outdoor activities and is home to a ski resort.

One of the best places to go in December, Aspen is a winter wonderland in the beautiful state of Colorado.

In December, tourists across Colorado and other states travel to Aspen to take in the breathtaking surroundings.

Due to its world-class ski resorts, Aspen has become one of the most favored locations for skiing and snowboarding during the winter.

With sleigh rides through the town streets, ice skating, tubing, and other winter sports, December in Aspen creates a magnificent ambiance.

Moreover, there are numerous bars and eateries in the city where you may indulge in seasonal favorites like hot chocolate with marshmallows.

Recommended Hotel: The Gant

9. Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park, UT 84532 (435) 719-2299

Arches National Park is famous for its 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the massive, red-hued Delicate Arch in the east.

The park is most peaceful in the winter when a light layer of white snow covers the blazing red arches.

Avoid the busy tourist season and enjoy the peace of a winter visit.

Remember that a visit in the winter may bring cold weather and icy parking lots, roads, and trails.

But if you’re prepared and ready for the cold weather, a trip to Arches in the winter can be unique.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab

10. Orlando, Florida

Orlando , a city in central Florida, is home to more than a dozen famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World.

If you are wondering where to have the best birthday trips in December, visit Orlando.

Orlando in December offers mainly clear skies, low humidity, and colder temperatures.

The Christmas events and decorations at Disney and the other theme parks are over the top, but you can take the free Christmas tree promenade at Disney Springs.

Depending on when you visit in December, you can also take in the many parades, including boat parades.

Discover “snow” at some holiday celebrations, and meander around Lake Eola to see the Orlando Christmas tree and holiday light show.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection

Related: Food Places in Orlando

11. San Diego, California

San Diego is a popular tourist destination on California’s Pacific coast, thanks to its parks, beaches , and balmy weather.

The month of December in the city is filled with a ton of entertaining outdoor and holiday-themed events.

Moreover, the average daily high temperature in San Diego in December will be around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

While whales can be seen in San Diego throughout the year, the best time to go on a tour is from mid-December to mid-March.

And sunsets are incredibly vibrant this time of year because of how near the sun is to San Diego.

It’s the best time to observe the sunset from Sunset Cliffs or arrange a cruise during sundown.

Recommended Hotel: Pendry San Diego

Related: Places to Dine in San Diego

12. New York City

One of the top cities to visit in December is, without a doubt New York City , also known as NYC, which is the most populous city in the country.

New York City is a dream trip for many people worldwide, but it’s even more enchanting in December.

With Christmas and New Year’s as the main attractions, you’ll want to visit this charming city.

New York City is a delight, from soaking in the glistening lights of Times Square to strolling through Central Park covered in snow.

There are a variety of festive activities to partake in after night falls.

These include visiting the Christmas markets in Union Square and Bryant Park, sipping hot wine, and watching the Rockefeller Center tree light up.

A Nutcracker show on Broadway with a winter theme is fun, as is the light display at Dyker Heights and Fifth Avenue.

Recommended Hotel: InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Food Places in NYC

13. Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island, FL 34145-34146 (239) 389-5000

Marco Island is a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Southwest Florida, with resort hotels , beaches, marinas, and golf courses.

With temperatures in the temperate range of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and little humidity, December is a delightful season to visit Marco Island.

Don’t miss the joyous Marco Island boat procession, which will feature vessels of all kinds decked out with holiday lights and playing Christmas music for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also find much to do on Marco Island, from thrilling airboat rides to kayak and boat tours.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort, an IHG Hotel

Related: Restaurants to Try in Marco Island

14. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago , one of the largest cities in the country, is situated on Lake Michigan in Illinois and is well known for its innovative architecture.

Chicago should be on your bucket list if you’re wondering where to travel in December.

This city transforms into a winter wonderland with many yearly holiday customs.

Chi-Town is well known for its ferocious snowstorms and freezing temperatures during the winter.

But the city’s numerous holiday festivities provide more than enough incentive to face the weather and go outside to enjoy the season.

You can see millions of lights turned on at Lincoln Park ZooLights, and Santa Claus might visit you as you enjoy the stunning light show.

Recommended Hotel: Viceroy Chicago

Related: Popular Restaurants in Chicago

Related: Best Midwest Ski Resorts for Families

15. Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 (760) 965-3600

Mammoth Lakes is a town in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, best known for the Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain ski slopes and surrounding trails.

This charming ski town is the perfect destination to visit in December because it offers many outdoor winter sports.

For instance, consider skiing at one of its renowned ski areas, such as Mammoth Mountain or June Mountain.

In December, the slopes are typically coated in fantastic powder, and the majestic Sierra Nevadas make for an impressive, memorable background.

You can also do winter sports instead, including cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the nearby Inyo National Forest.

Even though Mammoth’s slopes draw most of its winter guests, there is still a lot of festive cheer.

Numerous Christmas lights decorate The Village in Mammoth Lakes all year long.

And there are other events planned for the winter holidays, including the annual tree lighting and Santa visits.

Recommended Hotel: Juniper Springs Resort

16. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket, MA 02554-02584 (508) 228-7261

The little island of Nantucket , Massachusetts, off the coast of Cape Cod, is famous during the summer because of its dune-backed beaches.

When it comes to glamming up the town for the holidays, Nantucket goes all out.

Along the streets of downtown, dozens of Christmas trees are erected, decorated, and lit up each night around sunset.

The Brand Point Lighthouse is the perfect location for holiday card shots because it has a giant wreath.

Furthermore, in the Whaling Museum, more than 50 trees are on display, each with a unique decoration created by regional artists and companies.

And Christmas in Nantucket isn’t here until the renowned dory boat on Easy Street lit up its distinctive little tree in the sea.

Recommended Hotel: White Elephant Hotel

Related: Must Eat Restaurants in Nantucket

17. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix , the capital of Arizona, is renowned for its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures.

If you are looking for warm weather in winter, Arizona is the best place to visit in December in the USA.

Phoenix’s December highs are typically around 70 degrees, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking.

Plus, you can listen to live music outside while admiring the countless brilliant holiday lights in the lovely weather.

You can see lovely Christmas lights at the Desert Botanical Garden during the yearly Las Noches de las Luminarias celebration.

And at the CityScape retail center, there is a lovely outdoor rink where you can enjoy some holiday ice skating.

Recommended Hotel: Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

Related: Top Places to Eat in Phoenix

18. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is the capital and most populous city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the New England area’s economic and cultural hub.

Wintertime in Boston offers lively markets, ice skating outdoors, and cozy igloos.

Although it snows more frequently in January or February, a winter wonderland cityscape is still possible in Boston in December!

Go ice skating on Frog Pond in Boston Common for some wintertime entertainment.

Or spend the evening at The Envoy in the Seaport gazing out over the water from The Lookout Rooftop.

If you want a romantic escape, renting a heated igloo is one of the most fantastic date ideas in Boston.

Recommended Hotel: The Newbury Boston

Related: Must Eat Places in Boston

Related: Best Family Ski Resorts in New England

Related: Best US Places to Visit in January

19. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, HI 96701-96898 (800) 464-2924

Oahu is the state capital of Honolulu and is known for its pristine beaches and fun nightlife .

Oahu is a stunning island in Hawaii, and December is the best month to visit because of the weather.

December’s temperature ranges from a high of 80 F to a low of 70 F, making it nearly never too hot or cold for anyone.

Oahu offers many enjoyable activities , including sightseeing, resting, and hiking.

In addition, you can engage in water sports like surfing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and more.

Despite being the most populous island in Hawaii, Oahu has many beautiful natural beauties to appreciate if you venture away from the crowd.

You might even be fortunate to view whales, Hawaiian monk seals, or sea turtles.

Since whales like to migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth, the whale-watching season in Oahu typically lasts from December to May.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei, HI

Related: Best Eats in Oahu

Related: Best Places to Visit in February in the USA

20. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is the most populated city in the U.S. state of Vermont and the county seat of Chittenden County.

Burlington is the best place to vacation in December in the USA.

This city has a lovely blanket of snow covering it and a view of the magnificent Lake Champlain.

Make sure to stroll down Church Street, decked out in dazzling holiday lights and cheery storefronts, during December.

You can also board the Polar Express and take an unplanned rail trip to the North Pole near you.

And to heighten the holiday mood, attendees are urged to arrive in their jammies as professional chefs serve baked cookies and hot cocoa.

Recommended Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Burlington Vermont

Related: Great Restaurants in Burlington

21. Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs , a city in southern California’s Sonoran Desert, is renowned for its hot springs, chic lodgings, golf courses, and spas.

Palm Springs is a perfect choice if you are wondering where to go in December.

This city has fantastic weather, with daytime temperatures near 70 degrees Fahrenheit in December.

Plan some hikes into the numerous oases in the area since the weather is ideal for exploring outside.

The palm trees bordering the main street in downtown Palm Springs always make the area festive, but in December, the entire area is decked out for the holidays.

You can watch the Festival of Lights Parade, which features illuminated floats, marching bands, and colorful cars, if you go in the first few days of December.

Recommended Hotel: La Maison Hotel

Related: Best Food Spots in Palm Springs, CA

HI 96701-96797 (800) 464-2924

Hawaii , famous for its beaches and surf, is the only American state outside North America.

People will tell you Hawaii is one of the best states to visit in December.

Many people looking for a tropical haven to celebrate this holiday season often make Hawaii their first choice for a yearly trip.

With the unofficial Christmas flower and ideal weather on land and at sea, it is not surprising that December has grown to be a popular tourism month in the islands.

This is the perfect place to unwind on island time, thanks to the tropical breezes, abundant sunshine, bathwater-warm ocean waves, and breathtaking landscape.

Recommended Hotel: Trump International Hotel Waikiki

23. Miami, Florida

Miami is a coastal metropolis and the seat of the county of Miami-Dade.

This city will meet your needs if you’re seeking a warm location with a lot of activity in December.

Miami comes alive during the holidays with events like The Nutcracker, and the enchanted lighting adorns Zoo Miami.

Boating and visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are among the most fantastic Miami attractions.

And since there is no snow in Miami in December, you can stroll around nearby districts like Little Havana and the Miami Design District.

Recommended Hotel: EAST Miami

Related: Top Miami Restaurants

24. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake is a metropolitan city and is Utah’s capital and most populated area.

For avid skiers, December is the best month to visit the slopes and ski areas in Salt Lake City.

Just a short drive from Salt Lake City are the six top ski resorts in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains.

The ski slopes can accommodate both beginning and expert skiers.

However, if you prefer to unwind and enjoy the white scenery, there are spots in the skiing area perfect for that, too.

Additionally, December in Salt Lake City is filled with fun holiday activities like horse-drawn carriage rides across the lighted Temple Square.

Recommended Hotel: Grand America Hotel

Related: Where to Eat in Salt Lake City

25. U.S. Virgin Islands

VI 00801-00851 (800) 372-8784

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a group of Caribbean islands and islets recognized by their white-sand coastlines, coral reefs, and lush mountains.

The Virgin Islands are a no-brainer for a December Caribbean vacation in the United States.

The dry season officially starts in December, when temperatures often range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

As a result, the pleasant weather is perfect for exploring St. Thomas’ stunning beaches, taking island-hopping cruises, and trekking on St. John.

Recommended Hotel: Flamboyan on the Bay Resort & Villas

Related: Dining in The US Virgin Islands

26. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas , nicknamed Sin City, is the most populous city in Nevada and the 25th most populous city in the entire country.

Las Vegas’ dazzling lights and mild temperatures draw many December visitors from the USA.

Along the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll find all the customary flair, a surplus of sights and sounds, and a nod to the holiday season.

Plus, you’ll see extensive Christmas decorations with lots of flowers and lights in several hotels.

In addition to fantastic holiday shopping, December in Las Vegas is jam-packed with fun activities.

The Botanical Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates is among the most picturesque locations.

Recommended Hotel: Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World

Related: Must Try Restaurants in Las Vegas

27. Pasadena, California

California’s Pasadena , northeast of Los Angeles’s downtown, is renowned for its Victorian art structures.

If you are looking for the best December vacation spots, head to Pasadena.

With the warm weather in Southern California, you could go to the beach for the day and still participate in one of the significant events.

Be part of the preparation of one of Pasadena’s well-loved festivals.

At the end of December, Rose Parade contestants finish customizing their lavish, rose-covered floats during Decor Week.

You can join various activities to help prepare for this much-awaited event.

Recommended Hotel: The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

Related: Top Restaurants: Pasadena

28. Charleston, South Carolina

The 1670-founded port city of Charleston , South Carolina, is known for its cobblestone lanes, horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum homes.

Although Charleston isn’t known for its winter vacation, it’s one of the best and cheap places to visit in December for those looking to escape the bitter cold.

You can enjoy Charleston’s charming winter festivals, such as the Festival of Lights.

During this celebration, James Island County Park is turned into a winter wonderland with more than two million sparkling lights stretched over three miles.

Or you can spend some time exploring the fascinating Historic District with its charming churches and homes that date back hundreds of years.

Recommended Hotel: The Charleston Place

Related: Food Places in Charleston

29. Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, a town in the Rocky Mountain foothills, is renowned for its outdoor adventures, skilled chefs, breweries, and bustling downtown.

Boulder is one of the must visit places in the USA in December because of its view of the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

You can enjoy the view of the white sceneries of the mountains or indulge in the activities this charming city offers.

One of the best things to do in Boulder is to walk around the city, go to Pearl Street Mall, a well-known outdoor shopping center, and go skiing at Eldora Mountain.

Additionally, you can go to the city’s renowned Winter Craft Beer Festival and learn why Boulder is frequently referred to as the capital of beer making.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Boulderado

Related: Places to Dine in Boulder

30. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 (307) 344-7381

The Yellowstone Volcanic Region is a volcanic hotspot featuring magnificent gorges, roaring rivers in the mountains, lush forests, hot springs, and erupting geysers.

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous December weekend getaways because of its white scenery and activities.

The 2.2 million-acre park radiates a magical beauty when it is covered with snow.

Yellowstone is also the perfect place to admire nature’s beauty and strength by looking at geysers.

Be amazed as you watch Old Faithful, the geyser that shoots water into the air, produces a breathtaking chilly air in the wintertime known as “geyser rain.”

And if you love to be active on your winter vacation, you are in luck.

Miles of trails in Yellowstone take visitors past icy forests, scorching hot springs, and snow-covered meadows.

Recommended Hotel: Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

Related: Best Winter Vacations for Families

31. Washington DC

The capital of the United States, Washington, DC , is a compact city on the Potomac River that borders the states of Maryland and Virginia.

Travel to Washington to experience the best December vacations with your family.

December is not peak tourist season, so you’ll get better deals on hotels and less crowded tourist spots.

Spend your trip in Washington, DC, visiting the Smithsonian museums, primarily indoors.

You can also take your kids for a stroll through the city and take in the holiday decorations, especially those at the White House.

And if you want a little adventure, join one of the many holiday events, such as viewing the huge national Christmas tree or taking tours of the city’s top sights.

Recommended Hotel: Riggs Washington DC

Related: Best Food Places in Washington DC

32. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, VT 05662-05672 (802) 253-3000

Stowe is a town in northern Vermont noted for its hiking areas and skiing slopes.

If you want to have a cozy getaway with your family in winter, Stowe offers one of the best December vacations.

With the fireplace on and mugs of hot chocolate, you can spend family time in a little cottage or bed and breakfast.

You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits if you decide to venture outdoors, including skiing and dog sledding.

You can also indulge in one of Stowe’s traditional holiday parades and watch the tree-lighting ceremony in the town square.

Recommended Hotel: Trapp Family Lodge

Related: Restaurants to Try in Stowe

33. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge, CO 80424 (970) 453-5579

Breckenridge , a Colorado town at the foot of the Tenmile Range in the Rocky Mountains, is well-known for its ski resorts.

It’s no wonder that skiing fans flock to Breckenridge in December because that month marks the beginning of ski season there.

Aside from skiing, the holiday celebrations also make Breckenridge a terrific spot to visit in December.

Take a stroll through the town to take in the lovely views of the holiday season as buildings are decked out in festive decorations.

In addition, you can buy a holiday souvenir from one of the quaint businesses on Main Street.

Recommended Hotel: One Ski Hill, A RockResort

Related: Popular Restaurants in Breckenridge

Related: Best Family Ski Resorts in the U.S.

34. Key West, Florida

Key West , Florida’s southernmost point, is known for its pastel-colored conch-style homes.

Want to experience the best trips in December?

Consider visiting a beach paradise , Key West.

Key West is among the most fantastic U.S. destinations in December for anyone seeking to escape winter troubles.

It is perfect for touring the island because of the calm waters and the moderately warm weather.

You can go to some of the island’s well-known bars, bar hop, or just relax on the beach and watch the sunset.

Recommended Hotel: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

Related: Must Eat Restaurants in Key West

35. Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage , Alaska’s largest city, is a well-known winter paradise with breathtaking cultural attractions.

No list of best places to visit in December in the USA is complete without Anchorage.

Due to the Northern Lights, December marks the height of the tourism season in Anchorage, Alaska.

From Anchorage to Fairbanks, you can board the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train for a picturesque view of the Northern Lights.

The city of Anchorage is a great place to spend a December holiday, in addition to taking in this magnificent natural display.

You can go dog sledding, explore the local animals, visit the city’s museums, and hike a glacier.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Captain Cook

Related: Top Places to Eat in Anchorage

Map of Places to Visit in December in the USA

35 Best Places to Visit in December in the USA for 2024

• Maui, Hawaii
• Leavenworth, Washington
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Austin, Texas
• Savannah, Georgia
• Park City, Utah
• Death Valley National Park
• Aspen, Colorado
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Orlando, Florida
• San Diego, California
• New York City
• Marco Island, Florida
• Chicago, Illinois
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Nantucket, Massachusetts
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Burlington, Vermont
• Palm Springs, California
• Miami, Florida
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Pasadena, California
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Boulder, Colorado
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Washington DC
• Stowe, Vermont
• Breckenridge, Colorado
• Key West, Florida
• Anchorage, Alaska

Here Are The 15 Absolute Best Places To Visit In December Across The United States

Chris Muras

Every adventure starts with a single step. And then another, and another, until you find yourself somewhere new and undiscovered. That’s the journey of a writer. You never know where the next word will take you. Hopefully, together, we can experience some amazing new adventures at OnlyInYourState.

More by this Author

December is a fun time all across the United States with the holidays and winter festivities in full swing. Whether your idea of a winter getaway is to a tropical beach setting or a snow-capped mountain, we have some wonderful destinations to show you. Here are some of the best places to visit in the U.S. in December for you to start planning your next getaway.

Best Places to Visit in The USA In December

Best attractions to visit in the usa in december to avoid crowds, best places to visit in the us in december for outdoor adventure, best places to visit in december for events, best hidden gems to visit in the us in december.

If you are wondering where to visit in December in the USA, we have some extra special destinations for you to explore. From some places you have possibly always wanted to go, to hidden gems you may not have heard about yet. Here are some of our favorites that we think you’ll love too.

• Location : Pasadena, CA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Pasadena, California in December is a quiet time of year with mild temps in the upper 60s to lower 70s. Activity heats up toward the end of the month when the city gears up for the annual Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day Parade and the Rose Bowl. The official events happen in January but the festivities begin in late December.
• Where To Stay Nearby : Enjoy a Pasadena getaway with this charming Spanish-style home with a private pool and patio with a brick fireplace only 15 minutes from all of the activity around the Rose Parade and Old Town Pasadena.

• Location : St. Augustine, FL
• Why Visit In December : Visiting St. Augustine, Florida in December is the perfect way to get away from the huge tourist crowds that flood the city in warmer months. The city really gears up for Christmas celebrations, even as far back as mid-November and lasting toward the end of January. A particularly festive area is the Plaza de la Constitución.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This charming renovated 1920s bungalow is the perfect spot to enjoy all that St. Augustine has to offer. This cute home is within walking distance of all the best attractions in the city.

• Location : Albuquerque, NM
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Albuquerque, New Mexico in December is a festive time of year. With numerous holiday events like the Twinkle Light Parade, the River of Lights, and the Old Town Holiday Stroll, you will be kept busy celebrating your love of the holidays.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This lovely Southwestern-style home is only a few minutes from Old Town and all of the year-round activities and festivals ABQ is known for.

One of the best reasons to travel in December is that you can enjoy some of your favorite destinations without summer crowds. These next few destinations are unique in their own way and make for a delightful December getaway.

• Location : North Pole, AK
• Why Visit In December : Visiting the North Pole, Alaska in December is just about the most charming little town you can imagine - for obvious reasons. Even if you are on the naughty list there is plenty of time to rectify that.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This North Pole cabin retreat is pretty magical with moose grazing in the yard, an Aurora Borealis as your night light, and the Christmas Spirit tucking you in at night.

• Location : South Padre Island, TX
• Why Visit In December : If you are looking for a nice winter beach getaway visiting South Padre Island in December is fantastic because the ocean off the coast rarely dips below 70 degrees. Combine that with comfortable air temps in the 70s and you have a magic combination that feels pretty amazing for a winter getaway.
• Where To Stay Nearby : A beachfront condo is a nice affordable way to enjoy South Padre Island. At less than the cost of a mid-priced hotel, you and your family can enjoy this light-filled two-bedroom spot right on the beach.

• Location : Sedona, AZ
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Sedona, Arizona in December is great if you like a nice quiet weekend or a longer vacation. With fewer tourists taking all the best restaurants, accommodations, and parking spots, you can have this lovely city practically all to yourself.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This beautiful villa overlooking the red rocks of Sedona is a fantastic romantic getaway for two. Incredible views of Chimney Rock, Doe Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and Coffee Pot Rock.

If you enjoy the outdoors and are looking for some of the best places to travel in December in the USA with stunning views and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors these next couple of destinations should be on your trip list.

• Location : Lake Placid, NY
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Lake Placid, New York in December is a festive and active time of year. With holiday celebrations and numerous reasons to get outside and play, this picturesque town is filled with the holiday spirit and a sense of adventure.
• Where To Stay Nearby : Treat yourself to a Lake Placid getaway to remember at this luxury lodge at the foot of Cobble Mountain within a block from Mirror Lake.

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• Location : Grand County, UT
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Arches National Park in December gives you a unique perspective that relatively few of us ever experience. This alien landscape is so quiet and calm after a winter dusting of snow it is easy to imagine you are on another planet.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The Moab Pearl Ecolodge is a quiet oasis under the stars only a short distance from Moab and Arches National Park.

December is a festive time of year, but there are certain places in the US that really take holiday celebrations to a whole new level. Here are a couple of the best places to travel in December in the USA to celebrate the holidays.

• Location : Bethlehem, PA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in December is a special time of year with holiday lights, Christmas celebrations, and good cheer. A variety of Christian denominations have their day around the holidays including Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Protestant, and Ethiopian denominations as they pass through the city and into Shepherds' Fields.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This delightful modern farmhouse in Bethlehem is a quiet getaway in Christmas City.

• Location : Leavenworth, WA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Leavenworth, Washington in December is truly a magical experience with each and every inch of the town lit up with holiday lights. An extra special way to visit Leavenworth in December is to take the Leavenworth Snow Train from Seattle. It is a four-hour ride each way with an extra three hours given in Leavenworth itself.
• Where To Stay Nearby : If you are staying in Leavenworth itself, this beautiful riverfront home is a fantastic way to go. The scenic Wenatchee River is right out your back door and you are only a few minutes from all the action in town.

We’ve all heard about the top spots in the US for wintertime getaways like ski lodges in Vail, or heading to Key West for a beach getaway, but there are plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. The next few destinations you may not be as familiar with, but they are just as spectacular as those you are used to enjoying.

• Location : East Burke, VT
• Why Visit In December : Visiting East Burke, Vermont in December is the perfect getaway for ski enthusiasts. Burke Mountain is a picturesque spot for skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, sledding, and hiking.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This beautiful modern chalet in the mountains is the perfect getaway for a family who loves wintertime activities. Easy access to skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobile trails, and biking on Kingdom Trails.

• Location : Broken Bow, OK
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Broken Bow in December has a whole new vibe than a summer vacation. Sure, you still have some of the most amazing cabins in the country, but lighting that winter bonfire while sipping a local brew, or sitting in the hot tub as steam rises all around you creates a whole new kind of magic.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The Rowdy Beaver is a luxury cabin surrounded by forest and mountain views. Even though the name sounds like a bros weekend getaway, it is perfect for any occasion with room for eight guests.

• Location : Solvang, CA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Solvang, California in December will treat you to holiday parades, tree lighting ceremonies, a Santa's Village, and even a city-wide hunt for Solvang Nisse - a group of gnomes hidden throughout downtown which reward you with prizes when you find them.
• Where To Stay Nearby : In the heart of Solvang's Danish village is this charming three-bedroom home that fits in perfectly with the vibe of the town.

• Location : Port Townsend, WA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Port Townsend, Washington in December for a family vacation is a fun time to celebrate the holidays. Particularly fun for kids (and us big kids too) is the Annual Uptown Gingerbread Contest at the Port Townsend Library - build your gingerbread house as tall and as elaborate as you desire to win prizes in five different categories.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The baby-blue Ferry Boat House is a wonderfully restored 1880s Victorian home on Port Townsend Bay which gives you a lovely view of the passing ferry boats as they enter the harbor.

• Location : Galena, IL
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Galena, Illinois in December is a time of year when you can enjoy plenty of winter activities. One of our favorites is a candlelight hike through Casper Bluff Preserve. Of, course the historic Main Street Christmas celebration is especially wonderful too. They even go all out with holiday fireworks displays at the beginning of the month when Holiday Fire in the Sky lights up the town with excitement and good cheer.
• Where To Stay Nearby : One of the best things about Galena is its abundance of charming Bed and Breakfasts. The 1842 Federal House is one such B&B you don't want to miss.

When it comes to winter travel some of us would rather hole up in a cozy cabin by the fireplace, others are looking for adventures. No matter what your ideal December vacation looks like we hope you have discovered a few new destinations that you are excited about visiting. If you have any other destinations that you’ve fallen in love with please share them with a comment so we can add them to our best places to visit in the U.S. in December list.

It’s never too early to start planning your next summer getaway too. Here are some of our favorite destinations to visit in July so you can get an early start on a fun summer trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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The 13 Best Places to Visit in the US in December (2023)

December is a magical time of year in the United States, and there’s really no better way to cap off the year than by hitting the road! Whether you’re looking to escape the cold at a tropical beach or embrace the snow on an epic ski trip, there are tons of incredible places to visit in the US in December.

Of course, holiday travel is huge this month. If you want to relish the festive season, you’ll find endless holiday cheer and special events in cities big and small. But if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and costs that come with a Christmas vacation , you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, too. 

Travel earlier in the month, and you’ll have the chance to explore the country’s best (and most popular) national parks and cities minus the crowds. Plus, in the lead-up to the holidays, you’ll find that many cities in the US host free concerts, festive markets, and holiday parades, while restaurants often serve up special menus and holiday treats all month long. 

With so many wonderful places to visit in December, it might be tough to decide where to go! So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best places to visit in the US in December for you. Plan the ultimate December getaway and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 13 Best Places to Visit in the US in December

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 13 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

1. new orleans, louisiana.

From noshing on beignets at Café du Monde to marveling at 18th-century buildings in the French Quarter, The Big Easy is a prime destination to visit year-round. But did you know it’s one of the best US cities to visit in December?

Book a trip to New Orleans in December, and you’ll find all sorts of festive and fun special events happening all month long. Plus, the city is all dressed up in twinkling lights and holiday displays, creating a truly magical atmosphere!

Starting at the beginning of the month, you can expect restaurants to mix up festive craft cocktails and serve up special menus, including traditional Reveillon dinners (a late-night multi-course holiday meal). Be sure to also attend one of the free classical and jazz concerts courtesy of the St. Louis Cathedral Concert Series and check out the spectacular light displays at the iconic Celebration in the Oaks and LUNA Fête . 

Then there’s the Krewe of Jingle Christmas Parade, the boozy Running of the Santas pub crawl, and the Holiday Home Tour , which gives you a peek into the beautiful private homes in the Garden District. From thrilling college football games to festive cruises on the Mississippi, there’s tons going on in New Orleans in December!

2. Zion National Park

If you’ve visited Zion National Park during the peak months (April through October), you know that the crowds can be overwhelming. After all, this is one of the most popular national parks in the United States!

But visit Zion in December, and you’ll be rewarded with near-empty hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and iconic attractions. Brave the chilly temps, and you’ll quickly see why Zion National Park is one of the best places to visit in the US in December. 

Plus, winter is the only time of year that you can cruise along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in your own car (aside from certain days, including the time between Christmas and New Year’s). The road is closed to private vehicles from March to November, so being able to travel at your own pace and stop whenever you want is a huge benefit of visiting in winter.

Another perk of visiting Zion in December is that your chances of snagging a coveted permit to hike Angels Landing or The Subway are much better compared to peak season months. But beware of Angels Landing if it’s icy, those dropoffs are no joke!

Of course, December is the coldest month of the year to visit Zion, with an average low of 30°F and high of 50°F. But bundle up, and you’re in for the trip of a lifetime. If you have extra time make sure you visit nearby Bryce Canyon National Park – another fabulous place in Southern Utah for a white Christmas !

3. Lake Placid

If you’re looking for epic winter destinations perfect for a year-end trip, Lake Placid is easily one of the best vacation spots in the US in December. Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains, this quaint New York town is a mecca for adventure junkies, especially in the winter months.

Lake Placid has been a top winter destination since the early 1900s, and it even played host to the Winter Olympics back in 1932 and again in 1980. Fast-forward to today, and you can experience Lake Placid’s Olympic past at the Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Complex, Mt. Van Hoevenberg, and Whiteface Mountain.

Take advantage of the powder-fresh snow, and hit the slopes of Whiteface Mountain , one of the top ski resorts in the country. If you prefer something a bit more mellow, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Mount Van Hoevenberg and beyond. 

If you’re in town just to relax, that’s fine too. You’ll find all sorts of lovely lodges and pampering spas all around town, perfect for a carefree winter weekend away!

4. Leavenworth, Washington

Tucked away in Washington ‘s Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is famous for its authentic Bavarian Village lined with alpine-style buildings and German restaurants. There are plenty of reasons to visit Leavenworth year-round, but if you’re looking for magical Christmas destinations, this Washington hamlet is easily one of the best places to travel in the US in December!

Leavenworth is widely hailed as one of the best Christmas towns in the US, so expect plenty of twinkling lights and holiday cheer all month long thanks to the annual Village of Lights Christmastown event. 

During this month-long event, you’ll have the chance to participate in all sorts of fun activities – from marveling at the half a million lights that adorn the town and taking photos with Santa to listening to carolers and snacking on all of the festive German treats. 

If that’s not enough, you can spend your days checking out all of the nutcrackers at the quirky  Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum , enjoying mulled wine and spiced nuts at downtown’s restaurants, going sledding through the middle of town, visiting the  Leavenworth Reindeer Farm  – the list goes on and on.

To add to the magical atmosphere, December is a prime time to see this picture-perfect town blanketed in snow!

5. Key West, Florida

Located at the southwestern tip of the Florida Keys, Key West is easily one of the best warm places in the United States to visit in December. The average daytime temperature hovers around 76°F, making this one of the warmest wintertime destinations in the country! 

That being said, the colder-than-usual ocean temperatures and mild rainfall might be off-putting to some. But if you visit Key West with an open mind, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, you may very well have perfect tropical weather during your entire trip. 

Key West is stunning year-round, and you can easily while away the days snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, soaking up the sun from a pristine beach, or lounging around your hotel pool. But December also offers all sorts of festive activities and events, too, creating a fun and unique juxtaposition to the tropical surroundings.

During the holidays, the entire island, including Duval Street, is decked out in aquatic-themed holiday decorations, making it even more charming than usual. If you’re in town in December, be sure to take the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley to check out Key West’s best light displays. 

Then there’s the Key West Holiday Parade the first week of December, the Lighted Boat Parade in mid-December, and the iconic New Year’s Eve Conch Shell Drop, to name a few fun events!

6. Williamsburg, Virginia

If you’re looking for the best US cities to visit in December, Williamsburg, Virginia , offers all sorts of unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 and is famous for its role in the American Revolution. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this place!

Visit any time of year, and you’ll have the chance to explore the 301-acre Colonial Williamsburg living museum, which features costumed characters re-enacting scenes from daily 18th- and 19th-century life. From dining at George Washington’s favorite tavern to shopping for gifts in the 18th-century-style Merchant Square, there’s always something fun to do in Williamsburg!

But visit in December, and you’ll find tons of seasonal events happening around town. If you want to shop till you drop, don’t miss out on Yorktown’s Christmas Market on Main, the Bizarre Bazaar at the nearby Richmond Raceway Complex, or all of the excellent deals at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. 

Then there’s ice skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion in the middle of Colonial Williamsburg, the festive treats at Yorktown Mistletoe Market and Toyland Parade, the spectacular “Grand Illumination” events in Colonial Williamsburg, and so much more. 

7. Joshua Tree National Park

Anyone who has ever visited Joshua Tree in the summer knows the heat can be downright brutal (think 100°F and beyond). Visit in the spring or fall, and you’ll have huge crowds to contend with. But travel to Joshua Tree in December, and you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and ideal weather for hiking. 

That being said, things do get really busy over the holidays. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we suggest visiting toward the beginning of December.

This is the California desert, after all, which means you can expect the temperature to hover around  60°F during the day and 40°F during the evenings. Rain and snow are always a slim possibility in December, so pack accordingly. 

One of the most unique things about traveling to Joshua Tree in the winter is that the days are shorter, which means you’ll have ample opportunity to stargaze in this Dark Sky Park. But when you’re not marveling at the star-speckled sky, you’ll have a blast hiking to Joshua Tree’s most famous rock formations, checking out the Cholla Cactus Garden, watching the sunset from Keys View, and so much more!

8. Savannah, Georgia

There really is no city quite like Savannah, Georgia . Famous for its picture-perfect Historic District and beautiful cobblestone squares, this Southern city just oozes charm. But visit in December, and you’ll find that the entire town is decked out in twinkling lights, red ribbons, and holiday cheer. 

This is one of the best Southern US cities to visit in December if you want to escape the frigid temperatures found in most US destinations this time of year. Head to Savannah, and you’ll experience highs in the upper 60s to low 70s and lows in the 40s. You might need gloves and a light jacket in the evenings, but that’s about it!

Weather aside, there are all sorts of fun things to do in Savannah at this time of year. You’ll want to meander around the Historic District to check out all of the 19th-century mansions all dressed up in over-the-top Christmas decor before going shopping for gifts in the historic City Market and sampling holiday treats at the quaint shops.

From tree lighting ceremonies and holiday home tours to holiday-themed performances and spectacular light shows, Savannah knows how to get into the holiday spirit!

9. Maui, Hawaii

It’s no surprise that Hawaii is one of the best warm places to visit in December – if not the very best place! But if you can’t decide which island to visit, consider a wintertime trip to Maui .

Of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui gets the least amount of rain during the winter months, so you’re pretty much guaranteed excellent weather and 75°F days. Plus, the swimming conditions are also excellent, so you can spend your days soaking in the sun on the beach before dipping in the Pacific Ocean.

The winter months are also a prime time to spot humpback whales in the wild. Roughly 12,000 humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii during the winter, meaning Maui is a prime spot for whale watching.  

Aside from spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, you can spend your trip hiking in Haleakala National Park , touring a pineapple or coconut farm, snorkeling off the coast of Lana’i, and marveling at spectacular waterfalls along the Road to Hana .

With its perfect December weather and all of its iconic natural attractions, a December trip does come with a higher-than-usual price tag. But chances are you’ll find it’s money well spent!

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10. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio , Texas , is another one of the best US cities to visit in December. With mild temperatures hovering around the high 60s and low 70s, you can leave your winter coat at home. You’ll love exploring the city’s top sights, including the Alamo, the UNESCO World Heritage sites along Mission Trail, and the bustling 2.5-mile River Walk without enduring the scorching summer temperatures.

Plus, during the entire month of December, the River Walk is decorated with 100,000 lights and visited by over 150 caroling groups. To really soak in the magical atmosphere, it’s well worth booking a river cruise if you’re visiting in December. 

Explore further afield, and you’ll find that local attractions like the Natural Bridge Caverns also get into the festive spirit, featuring everything from a Christmas tree to an ice skating rink. Head to the popular Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld, where you’ll find thrilling rides and attractions and fun holiday-themed events happening all month long!

Plus, this is a prime time to dine on San Antonio’s incredible Mexican food. Tamales are traditionally prepared for the holidays around these parts, so be sure to try some of the city’s best at places like Delia’s , Teka Molino , and Lala’s Gorditas .

11. Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting the Grand Canyon in December is a great idea if you want to avoid the hordes of tourists and are willing to brave the chilly temperatures and unpredictable weather. The park sees only 15% of the number of tourists during the winter months compared to the rest of the year, so expect quiet trails and sparsely populated overlooks along the South Rim!

The rims of the Grand Canyon can be very cold, but the inside of the canyon is actually protected from the brutal winds, meaning you can hike at relatively mild temperatures in the 50s! You’ll also have a much easier time obtaining permits at this time of year, which is another huge perk of visiting in December. 

The Grand Canyon is stunning at any time of year, but add a dusting of snow, and the landscape becomes even more magical!

It’s important to note that the North Rim is closed from early November to mid-May, and road closures are common, which means you likely won’t be able to access all the attractions on your bucket list. Check in at the visitors center to get up-to-date info on road and trail closures.

Winter storms and blizzards are also a very real possibility, so it’s always best to give yourself an extra couple of days to make sure you don’t miss out on everything you want to see and do! 

12. Newport, Rhode Island

When it comes to the best places to visit in the US in December, it doesn’t get much better than Newport, Rhode Island . While this coastal city is best known as a sun-soaked summer destination for East Coasters, visit in December, and you’ll be treated to a winter wonderland. And if you’re lucky, you might get to see the city’s buildings and beaches blanketed in snow!

You can spend your days ticking off all of Newport’s most famous attractions. From the historic lighthouses and lavish Gilded Age mansions to the scenic Cliff Walk and the bustling Newport Harbor, you’ll find tons of fun things to do in Newport at any time of year.

But December sees this place decked out in holiday charm, and you’ll find unique events happening all month long thanks to the annual “Christmas in Newport” event. Throughout December, you’ll come across Christmas concerts, tree-lighting ceremonies, arts and crafts fairs, festive pop-up shops, candlelit tours of historic homes, and so much more. 

One of the most popular Newport activities in December is the Holidays at the Newport Mansions , which gives you the chance to see The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms all dressed up in Christmas décor! 

13. Lake Tahoe

If you’re wondering where to go in December for some snow-filled fun, Lake Tahoe is always a good idea. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly destination or just want to take an epic ski trip with friends, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone.

In the winter, Lake Tahoe is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders who flock to the two dozen ski resorts that are scattered around the lake. From Heavenly and Kirkwood to Sierra-at-Tahoe and Sugar Bowl , you’ll be spoiled for choice! 

There’s a reason this is one of the best vacation spots in the US in December. But if skiing isn’t really your thing, you’ll find plenty of other wintertime activities to keep you entertained.

If you want to make the most of the city’s stunning natural setting, you’ll find plenty of hiking and snowshoeing opportunities around the lake. Or, for more chilled-out activities, you can shop till you drop in Heavenly Village, take in the views from the Heavenly Gondola , or take a gamble in one of the ritzy casinos on the Nevada side of the lake!

No matter how you spend your day, cap it off with a visit to one of Tahoe’s many après-ski spots, where you can mix and mingle over drinks!

There you have it! The 13 best places to visit in the USA in December. What’s your favorite US destination to visit in December?

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

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About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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2044 solar eclipse path: See where in US totality hits in next eclipse

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach. here's what to know:.

Millions of Americans are by now eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse , which is only hours away from passing over a large swath of the continent .

But when the celestial event comes and goes, the awe-inspiring impression it leaves on skygazers may leave them with one question: "When can we see that again?"

Unfortunately, we'll have to wait awhile – this sort of spectacular astral phenomenon doesn't happen very often . Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse that will cross over the contiguous U.S.

Solar eclipse glasses: What to know about glasses, safe viewing before the solar eclipse

When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S?

Only seven years have passed since Americans had the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse, a relatively rare celestial event in which the moon appears to us here on Earth to completely block the sun.

The resulting fleeting moments of darkness can last for minutes or just mere seconds and is known as " totality ," whereby the sun's outermost layer known as the corona makes a rare appearance.

Today's total solar eclipse , the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to NASA . According to astronomers, this eclipse will be brighter, will last longer and will be visible to more people than the last one in North America.

It's also the last one for 20 years in the United States.

After Monday, the next total solar eclipse viewable from the lower 48 states will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach .

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

It's not too early to start thinking about where you want to witness it. According to whenisthenexteclipse.com , Americans may want to make sure their passports up to date.

The place to be will likely be Banff National Park in Alberta and Jasper National Park , with Calgary and Edmonton also within the path of totality.

What to know about the 2033 eclipse in Alaska

Outside of the "lower 48," Alaska is set to experience a total solar eclipse much sooner.

On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will occur in Russia and cross over Alaska, according to nationaleclipse.com . The maximum duration of totality for this eclipse will be 2 minutes and 37 seconds.

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Gabe Hauari

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

25 places other than France where speaking French is helpful

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

Speaking another language is always helpful, especially if you love to travel. And French, commonly thought of as one of the most beautiful in the world, is also more useful than you might realize. Here are 25 destinations outside of France where you can put your French language skills to good use!

Home to delicious beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries (no, they actually didn’t originate in France), Belgium is also a French-speaking country. The language is one of three officially spoken in the country; the other two are Dutch and German. French is mostly spoken in the capital, Brussels, and in the south of the country.

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Another multilingual state that borders France, the Grand Duchy has French, German, and Luxembourgish as official languages. However, French is one most commonly used on signs and in written communication in the country. You’ll also find it most helpful for small talk and chatting with residents.

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Switzerland

Yet another European country with French as one of the official languages (the others are German, Italian, and Rhaeto-Romance). You’ll find French most useful in Geneva and the surrounding area, although it’s used throughout Switzerland.

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Many people make the mistake of assuming that this tiny state is a part of France. And while Monaco is surrounded by its’ much larger neighbor and uses the French language, it is a sovereign city-state with a monarchy. There is also a Monégasque language that has official status.

Aosta Valley

This region of Italy is located in the northwest of the country, near France. Latin was replaced by French as the official language after the fall of the Roman Empire and then, in the 19th century, was replaced with Italian. Today, the region is bilingual, and you’ll see French and Italian written on road signs and hear the two spoken by locals.

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The French Empire had a strong presence in North Africa, and thus many nations in the region still use French as an official language. Morocco is one of these, and French is widespread along with Arabic and various Berber dialects. As a visitor, you’ll find it extremely useful when speaking to locals or reading signs and menus.

Algeria’s official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also commonly understood. While not as widely used as in neighboring Morocco, it will be your best bet if you don’t speak one of the official languages. 

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Another former French colonial outpost, the language is used and understood throughout the country in addition to Arabic and Tunisian. It’s estimated over half the population speaks French, and it’s the teaching language of high schools in the country.

Cameroon was a colony of both the UK and France in the early 20th century. So, English and French are spoken in the country. However, French is the most prevalent, with eight of 10 regions considered Francophone. Locals also speak numerous other indigenous languages.

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Ivory Coast

Known as “Côte d’Ivoire” in French, this coastal nation uses the old colonial language as the official one. Additionally, numerous indigenous languages also have recognized status in the Ivory Coast.

Senegal has six recognized indigenous languages, the most well-known and commonly spoken is Wolof. However, French is still the official language of the country despite Wolof being more widely used and understood.

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Yet another multilingual former French colony, Burundi has three official languages. In addition to French, Kirundi, and Swahili are recognized by the government. In 2014, English also gained status in the country.

Republic of the Congo

Also known as the Congo or Congo-Brazzaville, it is not to be confused with its neighbor, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Formerly known as the French Congo, due to colonization, the language is still the official one of use to this day. The local Bantu language, Kituba, Lingala, and numerous other indigenous languages are also widely spoken.

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC has four main languages: Kikongo (Kituba), Lingala, Swahili, and Tshiluba. However, as a former Belgian colony, French is still widely used and understood.

Togo is a very multilingual country, and in addition to the official language, French has over 40 in use throughout the country. Many signs will be in French, and most locals speak some.

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Yet another former French colony, visitors to Mali will find the language very useful in most interactions. Additionally, the country is home to more than 80 other local languages.

The British and French fought over Canada, with the former finally winning out, but the Francophone portion of the population remained influential. So much so that the country has two official languages: English and French, with over 70 indigenous languages in existence. And the province of Québec only has French as the official language (and frequently threatens to secede from Canada). Its neighbor, New Brunswick, is the only officially bilingual province.

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When the U.S. purchased Louisiana territory from the French in 1803, it probably wasn’t considered how long the language would stick around. In the 1960s, efforts were made to revive the language in the state after decades of suppression and Americanization. Now, French is spoken by an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 residents, ranging from traditional and Cajun (Louisiana) French.

The Spanish colonized this Caribbean island before the Brits and French arrived. Then in 1763, France took over, and in 1943, it became semi-autonomous before gaining its current status as an Overseas Department in 1946. French is the official language, and visitors will find it helpful to know basic phrases, but Martinique Creole is unofficially the local language of communication.

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Another current French Overseas Department first colonized by the Spanish, Guadalupe has French as its official language, but like Martinique, Creole is widely used by locals.

French Guiana

This small section of the South American continent, located between far northeastern Brazil and Suriname and Guyana, is a former colony that housed a penal colony of France. Today, it is a French Overseas Department. Thus, French is the official language, but Creole is the language of use by many residents.

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French Polynesia

Colonized by the French, the islands received the name “French Polynesia” after being designated a French Overseas Territory in the '50s. Then, in 1977, the country received autonomy and is now considered an overseas country of the French Republic, with French as the official language.

New Caledonia

The British initially colonized these islands in the South Pacific before the French took over in 1853. Recent years have brought referendums for independence, but a slim majority of the population has voted in favor of remaining part of France. French remains the official language of the territory.

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This Pacific country is very multilingual, with French, English, and Bislama all considered official languages. However, it doesn’t stop there, as over 100 languages are spoken on the island. After centuries of colonization, independence was finally declared in 1980. 

Wallis & Futuna

Made up of the Wallis, Futuna, and Alofi islands, all three were French protectorates and colonies until 1961. Then, the islands became a French Overseas Territory until 2003, when they received status as an Overseas Collectivity. French has been the official language throughout all the status changes.

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