21 Best Places to Visit in December within the USA (2025 Edition)

We’ll always remember the primary time we visited New York City in December. We’d seen it in movies, but standing there, seeing the Rockefeller Center tree all lit up for the primary time, with skaters below and festive music within the air… it was pure magic.

But December travel isn’t nearly snow and Santa. We’ve also spent the vacations escaping to the heat, trading snow boots for flip-flops.

In fact, we’ve been to just about all 50 states and spent a variety of winters trying to seek out probably the most fun destinations and best weather. We’ve done so many road trips within the USA and flown almost in every single place, trying to seek out one of the best places to either escape the snow or benefit from the winter, you’ll think we’re obsessed. And we wish to share all of that knowledge with you.

If you’re on the lookout for the right winter getaway, you might have a transparent selection: either lean into the winter magic or escape it completely. Are you dreaming of a warm-weather escape with sunshine and sand, or a storybook Christmas town that appears like a real-life snow globe?

Based on all those experiences, we’ve put together this list of our favourite places to go to. Whether you’re on the lookout for a festive city, a snowy mountain, or a sunny beach, we’ll allow you to find the right spot.

Quick List: Best Places to Visit in December within the USA

Here is a fast have a look at a few of one of the best places for a December getaway within the USA, from festive winter wonderlands to sunny escapes.

• New York City, New York: The ultimate festive city experience.
• Leavenworth, Washington: An actual-life Bavarian Christmas village.
• Key West, Florida: Laid-back island life and sunshine.
• Aspen, Colorado: World-class skiing and a magical mountain town.
• Maui, Hawaii: The perfect warm-weather escape to see humpback whales.
• Asheville, North Carolina: Festive lights on the Biltmore Estate.
• St. Augustine, Florida: Taking within the “Nights of Lights” display.
• Scottsdale, Arizona: Sunny desert hikes and rest.
• Park City, Utah: A historic ski town with holiday charm.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Creole Christmas traditions and great food.
• Solvang, California: A singular Danish-style Julefest celebration.

Why Travel to the USA in December?

December is a month of pure magic and festive energy. It’s the right time to make use of up that last little bit of vacation time for the yr. The biggest draw is the distinct selection it offers: You can either dive head-first right into a winter wonderland, complete with snow and holiday markets, or you’ll be able to completely escape the cold weather and end up on a sunny beach. It’s a month of festive celebrations, incredible decorations, and finding the right atmosphere to finish the yr.

Best Warm Places to Visit in December within the USA

If you’re anything like us, sometimes one of the best gift in December is a break from the cold. Trust us, we all know after living in Toronto, Canada. Those winters are brutal. These are our favourite spots to seek out sunshine and warm weather, where you’ll be able to trade your winter coat for a lightweight jacket or perhaps a swimsuit.

1. Key West, Florida

We love the laid-back, quirky vibe of Key West, and it’s much more special in December. We have an important memory of biking across the island, seeing the historic inns draped in holiday lights, after which ending the day at Mallory Square for the sunset celebration. It’s an ideal escape from the cold.

Why Visit in December: This is the right time to go to. The summer humidity is gone, the weather is sunny and warm (often within the high 70s), and the chance of hurricanes may be very low. The whole island is in a festive spirit, with unique events just like the “Bight Before Christmas” boat parade.

Top Things to Do:

• Watch the “Bight Before Christmas” lighted boat parade.
• Take a ride on the Conch Train to see the historic homes decorated for the vacations.
• Visit the Southernmost Point within the continental US for a classic photo op.
• Go on a sunset sail to benefit from the view from the water.

Where to Stay: We recommend finding a guesthouse or inn within the historic Old Town to be near the motion.

2. Maui, Hawaii

We once went to a vacation luau in Ka’anapali, and it’s an experience we’ll always remember. You’re eating kalua pork and sipping a mai tai, watching a stupendous hula performance… after which Santa Claus arrives on an outrigger canoe. It was the right, uniquely Hawaiian strategy to get into the festive spirit.

Why Visit in December: You get tropical weather, festive holiday luaus, and it’s the official start of the humpback whale watching season. Be aware that that is a preferred time, especially around Christmas, so prices may be high and also you’ll must book prematurely.

Top Things to Do:

• Go on a whale watching tour to see the humpbacks arrive for the season.
• Attend a festive Christmas luau, where Santa sometimes arrives in a red canoe.
• Browse the vacation markets at Whalers Village in Ka’anapali.
• Drive the Road to Hana to see the waterfalls, which are sometimes fuller within the winter.

Where to Stay: Look to the resorts in Wailea or Ka’anapali for a classic Maui experience.

3. U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas / St. John)

We’ll all the time remember snorkeling the underwater trail at Trunk Bay in St. John. The water was so calm and clear, and seeing all the colorful fish felt a world away from the snow back home. That’s the magic of a Caribbean trip in December, and the USVI makes it really easy for American travelers.

Why Visit in December: It’s the beginning of the dry season, with unbelievable weather and warm, clear water. You get a full-on tropical, warm-weather Christmas experience, all with no need a passport.

Top Things to Do:

• Snorkel the famous underwater trail at Trunk Bay, St. John.
• Relax on the world-famous white sands of Magens Bay in St. Thomas.
• Explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins in St. John.
• Enjoy the unique “Christmas Second Day” (Crucian Christmas Festival) celebrations, an area tradition.

Where to Stay: You can select from large resorts in St. Thomas or more eco-friendly villas and lodges in St. John.

4. St. Augustine, Florida

We weren’t prepared for the way magical St. Augustine is in December. We took one in every of the Old Town trolley tours at night, and seeing your entire historic city, from the old Spanish architecture to the palm trees, draped in thousands and thousands of white lights… it was breathtaking. It’s a vacation light display unlike some other.

Why Visit in December: The famous “Nights of Lights” festival. The entire city is illuminated, and the mild Florida weather is ideal for walking around and having fun with the atmosphere. It’s one of the festive and warm places you’ll be able to visit.

Top Things to Do:

• Take a trolley or walking tour of the “Nights of Lights” display.
• Stroll through the historic streets and visit the Castillo de San Marcos.
• See the town’s Christmas tree within the Plaza de la Constitución.
• Visit the St. Augustine Distillery for a holiday-themed tasting.

Where to Stay: We recommend a historic inn or bed & breakfast within the downtown district to be inside walking distance of all of the lights.

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

While Maui is our go-to for a resort escape, Honolulu is where you go for a vibrant, city-meets-beach holiday. We loved seeing the large Santa browsing along with his reindeer within the fountain on the Iolani Palace. The whole city has this amazing “Mele Kalikimaka” (Merry Christmas) spirit.

Why Visit in December: It’s the right mix of warm beach weather, world-class shopping, and festive displays. It’s also a major month for history, with the memorial events at Pearl Harbor.

Top Things to Do:

• See the “Honolulu City Lights” display at Honolulu Hale.
• Pay respects on the Pearl Harbor National Memorial (especially moving around Dec seventh).
• Watch skilled surfers ride the large winter waves on the North Shore.
• Relax on the world-famous Waikiki Beach.

Where to Stay: Waikiki has an enormous range of hotels, from historic beachfront properties to modern high-rises.

6. South Padre Island, Texas

If your idea of a winter getaway is to actually get away from every part, the crowds, the noise, the stress, then South Padre is an ideal selection. We spent every week there, and our days consisted of long, quiet walks on the beach. It was a complete reset and the right strategy to escape the winter blues.

Why Visit in December: The weather is mild, and the crowds are gone. It’s one in every of the warmest places in Texas and offers a straightforward, relaxing beach vacation without the high prices or holiday chaos of other destinations.

Top Things to Do:

• Go birdwatching on the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge.
• Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. to study their rehabilitation efforts.
• Take a dolphin-watching cruise within the Laguna Madre.
• Simply benefit from the quiet, uncrowded beaches.

Where to Stay: You’ll find many beachfront condos and hotels offering great off-season rates.

7. Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona

We thought we knew desert holiday lights, however the “Las Noches de las Luminarias” on the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is on one other level. Walking the garden paths lit by 1000’s of hand-lit luminaria bags, with musicians playing, was a top-tier holiday experience.

Why Visit in December: You get two trips in a single: perfect, sunny weather for outdoor adventures like hiking through the day, and stunning, sophisticated holiday light displays at night.

Top Things to Do:

• Walk through the “Las Noches de las Luminarias” on the Desert Botanical Garden.
• Hike Camelback Mountain or explore the paths in Papago Park.
• See the “Zoolights” on the Phoenix Zoo.
• Explore the festively decorated shops and galleries in Old Town Scottsdale.

Where to Stay: Choose from upscale resorts in Scottsdale or stylish hotels in downtown Phoenix.

Best Christmas Towns & Festive Cities to Visit in December

Sometimes, the nice and cozy weather destinations just won’t cut it, especially in the event you are on the lookout for that winter wonderland feel. So, this section is for travellers who wish to dive head-first into the vacation spirit. These are the cities and towns that go all-out for December, with thousands and thousands of lights, Christmas markets, and an environment of pure magic.

8. New York City, New York

We’ve visited NYC over and over, but there’s a particular energy in December. We grabbed hot chocolates and walked through the Bryant Park Winter Village, watching the ice skaters zip across the rink under the lights of the encompassing skyscrapers. It felt like being within the opening scene of a vacation movie. There is nothing like New York City at Christmas.

Why Visit in December: It is the quintessential American Christmas destination. From the enduring tree to the world-famous window displays, your entire city is on a unique level of festive.

Top Things to Do:

• See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and go ice skating on the rink below.
• Browse the vacation shops and go skating on the Bryant Park Winter Village.
• See the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.
• Admire the flowery holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue.

Where to Stay: Midtown is convenient for seeing the principal holiday sights, but we also love the West Village for its cosy, neighbourhood feel.

9. Leavenworth, Washington

We’d heard Leavenworth was a “Christmas Town,” but we weren’t prepared for the truth. We visited through the Village of Lights festival, and walking through the snow-covered Bavarian-style village while each constructing was covered in over half 1,000,000 lights… it’s not an exaggeration. It’s the closest we’ve ever felt to being inside a real-life snow globe.

Why Visit in December: The entire town transforms right into a “Hallmark movie” Christmas village. It’s a full-immersion holiday experience with carolers, festive food, and incredible decorations.

Top Things to Do:

• See the “Village of Lights” (it’s lit up all month).
• Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm to stand up close with reindeer.
• Explore the Bavarian-themed shops on the lookout for unique gifts.
• Visit the Nutcracker Museum, which features over 7,000 nutcrackers.

Where to Stay: Book a Bavarian-style lodge or inn right within the village. You must book many months prematurely for December.

10. Asheville, North Carolina

We love Asheville, but visiting in December is all in regards to the Biltmore Estate. We took the candlelight evening tour, and seeing the principal banquet hall with its 35-foot tree, fireplaces roaring, and carolers singing… it felt like we’d stepped back in time right into a Gilded Age Christmas party.

Why Visit in December: Christmas at Biltmore is one of the iconic holiday events within the country. The city itself is a comfy mountain retreat, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are only beautiful with a dusting of snow.

Top Things to Do:

• Take the Candlelight Christmas Evening tour on the Biltmore Estate.
• See the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn.
• Explore the Winter Lights display on the NC Arboretum.
• Browse the independent shops and galleries within the River Arts District.

Where to Stay: You can stay on the Biltmore Estate for the total experience or select a boutique hotel downtown.

Here are the remaining destinations for the “Best Christmas Towns & Festive Cities” section, all written with unique, December-focused content.

11. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

We’ve visited a variety of Christmas markets, but visiting the one in Bethlehem, often known as “Christmas City USA”, just felt right. We sipped hot cider and browsed the stalls within the old quarter, and you’ll be able to feel the town’s 250+ years of Christmas tradition. The whole place is lit by the glow of a large Moravian star on the hillside.

Why Visit in December: This is Christmas City USA. It was nicknamed this on Christmas Eve, 1741. It offers one of the authentic and historic holiday experiences within the country, mixing its Moravian heritage with a European-style Christkindlmarkt.

Top Things to Do:

• Browse the artisan stalls on the Christkindlmarkt, a big European-style market.
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic, candlelit streets.
• See the only, giant Moravian star shining over the town.
• Explore the historic Moravian stone buildings downtown, that are beautifully decorated.

Where to Stay: Look for a hotel or inn within the historic downtown area to be near the festivities.

12. Solvang, California

Walking into Solvang in December felt like we’d been transported to a Danish village during its Julefest celebration. We spent the day exploring the half-timbered buildings, windmills, and bakeries, all decorated for the vacations. It’s such a singular and charming strategy to experience a winter getaway in the midst of California.

Why Visit in December: The town’s month-long “Julefest” (Yule-fest) celebration is in full swing. It’s a one-of-a-kind Danish-style Christmas with parades, markets, and, in fact, delicious European pastries.

Top Things to Do:

• Attend the Julefest Parade and see the tree lighting ceremony.
• Go on the “Nisse Adventure,” a fun scavenger hunt to seek out the town’s mischievous Nisse (gnomes).
• Browse the Julefest Maker’s Market for local artisan crafts.
• Sample Danish pastries, like aebleskiver, from the local bakeries.

Where to Stay: Choose one in every of the charming Danish-themed inns right within the village to be in the midst of the Julefest activities.

13. Grapevine, Texas

We needed to see the “Christmas Capital of Texas” for ourselves, and it didn’t disappoint. The entire historic Main Street is transformed. We loved seeing the vintage railroad, which becomes the “North Pole Express” for the month. They take the “Christmas Capital” title seriously; there are over 1,400 events in 40 days.

Why Visit in December: It is the officially designated “Christmas Capital of Texas”. The sheer variety of festive events, light displays, and activities is staggering, making it a top-tier destination for families and holiday lovers.

Top Things to Do:

• Ride the “North Pole Express” on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.
• Walk down the festively decorated Historic Main Street.
• See the sunshine displays and ice sculptures on the Gaylord Texan Resort.
• Go snow tubing on a snow hill, all in the midst of Texas.

Where to Stay: The Gaylord Texan Resort is an attraction in itself, or you’ll be able to stay near the Historic Main Street to be near the events.

14. New Orleans, Louisiana

A New Orleans Christmas is an experience all its own. We did a “Reveillon Dinner,” a contemporary tackle a Creole holiday tradition, and it was one of the memorable meals we’ve ever had. Afterwards, we walked to Jackson Square to see the St. Louis Cathedral all lit up while carolers sang.

Why Visit in December: You get to experience unique Creole Christmas traditions you won’t find anywhere else. The weather is mild, the food is incredible, and the town’s lobbies (like at The Roosevelt) have among the most elegant decorations we’ve seen.

Top Things to Do:

• See the incredible holiday light displays at Celebration within the Oaks in City Park.
• Stroll through the French Quarter to see the balconies decorated for Christmas.
• Have a “Reveillon Dinner” at one in every of the town’s historic restaurants.
• Listen to live holiday music and jazz on Frenchmen Street.

Where to Stay: We recommend a hotel within the French Quarter to be in the midst of the motion and see the decorated lobbies.

15. Natchitoches, Louisiana

We went to Natchitoches (pronounced Nak-a-tish) specifically for its Christmas Festival, and it was a complete joy. It’s one in every of the oldest and largest within the country. The whole city, which is the oldest in Louisiana, lights up with over 300,000 lights along the Cane River, and the weekly fireworks shows are unbelievable.

Why Visit in December: It hosts one in every of the oldest and most celebrated holiday festivals within the US, running for six weeks. It’s a classic, Southern Christmas experience in a stupendous historic district.

Top Things to Do:

• See the “Festival of Lights,” with tons of of 1000’s of lights reflected within the Cane River.
• Watch one in every of the spectacular fireworks shows over the river, which occur on weekends.
• Stroll through the Landmark Historic District and browse the shops.
• Eat a famous Natchitoches meat pie from an area vendor.

Where to Stay: Book a room at a historic bed & breakfast within the downtown area.

16. Williamsburg, Virginia

Visiting Colonial Williamsburg in December felt like walking through a living history Christmas card. We joined a candlelight tour, and seeing the historic buildings lit by real candles within the windows, with carolers in period costumes and the smell of woodsmoke within the air… it was absolutely magical.

Why Visit in December: You get to experience a standard, 18th-century “Colonial Christmas”. The decorations are all-natural (no plastic lights), and the atmosphere is incredibly authentic and charming.

Top Things to Do:

• Take a candlelight tour through the historic Colonial Williamsburg district.
• Watch the “Grand Illumination,” a weekend event with fireworks and musket firings.
• Go ice skating at Liberty’s Ice Pavilion.
• Drive through the sunshine show at Busch Gardens Christmas Town.

Where to Stay: Stay in one in every of the historic Colonial Houses or a tavern right within the restored area for the total immersive experience.

Here is the ultimate category of destinations. This section is all about embracing the snow and finding that perfect winter wonderland.

Best Places for a Snowy Winter Wonderland

For many, holiday season travel is all about finding that perfect, snowy scene. These are the places to go for world-class skiing, cosy lodges, and that magical feeling of a real winter escape.

17. Aspen, Colorado

We’ll all the time remember our first “après-ski” in Aspen. We had spent the day on the mountain hitting fresh powder each time we got the possibility, and because the sun went down, the sky lit up with this incredible pink and orange light they call “Aspenglow.” Sitting by a fireplace, having fun with a glass of Christmas cheer, and watching the snowfall on the historic town, it just felt just like the peak of a luxury winter trip.

Why Visit in December: It’s one in every of the world’s most famous upscale ski destinations, and the town is just as much an attraction because the mountains. The festive atmosphere, high-end shops, and restaurants are all decked out for the vacations.

Top Things to Do:

• Ski or snowboard at one in every of the 4 mountains (Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, or Buttermilk).
• Stroll through the festively lit, Victorian-era downtown.
• Enjoy the world-class après-ski scene.
• Go ice skating on the Silver Circle Ice Rink.

Where to Stay: Aspen is understood for its luxury hotels and ski-in/ski-out resorts.

18. Park City, Utah

One of our favourite things about Park City is its history. We loved skiing all the way down to the historic Main Street, popping off our skis, and walking straight right into a saloon that’s been there for the reason that silver mining days. It looks like an actual Western town, not only a ski resort.

Why Visit in December: It’s a historic mountain town with two world-class ski resorts (Park City and Deer Valley). The historic Main Street is incredibly charming, and the “Snow Globe Stroll” features life-sized snow globes you’ll be able to walk through.

Top Things to Do:

• Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley.
• Walk the historic Main Street, popping into the shops, galleries, and saloons.
• Experience the “Snow Globe Stroll”.
• Go bobsledding (with an expert pilot) on the Utah Olympic Park.

Where to Stay: You can find ski-in/ski-out hotels or stay at an inn on the historic Main Street.

19. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole in December is just dramatic. We took a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, and seeing 1000’s of elk gathered against the backdrop of the snow-covered Teton mountains… it was a strong and wild winter experience we’ve never forgotten.

Why Visit in December: It’s the right mixture of rugged “cowboy Christmas” charm and among the most difficult ski terrain in North America. The town square, with its famous antler arches, is beautifully lit for the vacations.

Top Things to Do:

• Take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge.
• Ski or snowboard the legendary terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
• Take a photograph under the antler arches within the festive Town Square.
• Go for a snowshoeing or cross-country ski day trip in Grand Teton National Park.

Where to Stay: Stay at a slopeside resort in Teton Village or in a hotel within the town of Jackson.

20. Whitefish, Montana

We love Whitefish since it looks like an actual, down-to-earth ski town. We spent a day snowshoeing in nearby Glacier National Park, having fun with the overall silence and incredible snowy landscapes, after which got here back to town for an off-the-cuff dinner. It’s all the wonder, without the glitz. Just what we were on the lookout for in a winter vacation.

Why Visit in December: It’s a laid-back, charming mountain town with a top-rated ski resort and stunning scenery. It’s also right next to Glacier National Park, which is a spectacular place to explore within the winter.

Top Things to Do:

• Ski or snowboard at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
• Go on a guided snowshoe or cross-country ski tour in Glacier National Park.
• Stroll the charming, decorated downtown.
• Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy fields.

Where to Stay: You can find lodges on the mountain or stay in one in every of the friendly inns in downtown Whitefish.

21. North Pole, Alaska

This was a visit purely for the fun of it, and it was 100% value it. You drive down streets named “Santa Claus Lane” and “St. Nicholas Drive,” the streetlights are shaped like candy canes, and you’ll be able to visit the Santa Claus House and see his reindeer. It’s a surreal and joyful experience.

Why Visit in December: It’s the last word Christmas fantasy come to life. The entire town is Christmas-themed, three hundred and sixty five days a yr, however it’s most magical in December with real snow on the bottom and the added bonus of possibly seeing the Northern Lights.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit the Santa Claus House to fulfill Santa and see his reindeer.
• Send a postcard to family and friends with an authentic “North Pole” postmark.
• Drive around to see the candy-cane-striped streetlights.
• Go dog sledding or search for the Aurora Borealis in nearby Fairbanks.

Where to Stay: North Pole may be very small; most visitors stay within the nearby city of Fairbanks, which has a big selection of hotels.

Tips for Travelling within the USA in December

• Book Everything in Advance: December, especially the period from mid-month through New Year’s, is one of the expensive and busiest travel times of the yr. Flights and hotels sell out and costs are high. Book as far ahead as you probably can.
• Pack for Your Destination (and Be Prepared): The weather varies wildly. You’ll be in a swimsuit in Hawaii and a heavy-duty parka in Alaska. For ski towns, “apres-ski” clothes are only as necessary as your ski gear. For warm destinations, remember it could actually still get cool at night.
• Rent a 4WD: If you’re heading to a snowy mountain destination like Colorado, Utah, or Wyoming, a 4WD or all-wheel-drive vehicle is crucial. Check road conditions before you drive.
• Check Event Schedules: For the festive towns, many parades, markets, and light-up events only occur on specific weekends. Check the official town or event web sites before you book to be certain that you won’t miss the principal event.

FAQ: Best Places to Visit within the US in December

Ready for a December Adventure?

December is a magical month to travel. Whether you’re chasing the sun, searching for out that perfect snowy scene, or on the lookout for a town that’s filled with holiday magic, the US has the right spot for you.

We hope this list, based on our own winter travels, helps you propose your next getaway. Save this on Pinterest in your holiday planning! Where is your favourite place to go in December?