usa road trip december

The Absolute Best Winter Road Trips in the USA

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: October 14, 2022

Categories Destinations , road trips , Travel Inspiration , Travel Tips , United States , Winter Activities

The iconic American road trip is generally a summer affair, thanks in part, to rock n’ roll, convertibles, and school vacations.

Winter provides a totally different road-trip scene – perhaps a bit less romantic, but just as exciting. Winter road trips in the USA generally involve a lot less traffic, fewer crowds, and probably an extra bag full of warm coats in the trunk.

Of course, there are a whole lot of American destinations where winter temperatures are much less extreme than in the summer. And plenty more USA road trips where snow tires are a requirement in the winter.

The path you choose for your winter road trip is yours alone, but we can certainly make some suggestions.

Ready to find your winter adventure on the open road? These are the best winter road trips in the USA, perfect for a long weekend getaway or a midweek escape.

But, first, make sure you and your car are ready for your winter road trip with our winter driving survival guide.

Table of Contents

Warm Winter Road Trips in the USA to Escape the Cold

Cold winter temperatures got you down? Sounds like you’re ready for a southern vacation!

Time to dust off that swimsuit and head to where the weather suits your clothes. These are the best winter road trips to escape the cold in the United States.

Take a Louisiana Road Trip: New Orleans and the Bayou

-by Jen Ambrose and Ryan Victor of Passions and Places

Since winter in Louisiana means 70 degrees and sunny (and since it’s unbearably hot during most of the year), the winter months are the perfect time for a winter road trip. Begin your trip in vibrant New Orleans, then meander around the bayou for a more rural experience.

First, spend a couple of days eating, sightseeing, and exploring a city that’s unlike any other in the United States. Get acquainted with the city by booking a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . This 1.5-hour tour will show you the most important sites, including the French Market, Jackson Square, and the Garden District.

Here are a few more New Orleans adventures that you won’t want to miss:

Commander’s Palace: You may book a table at Commander’s Palace because it’s the most famous spot to eat in New Orleans, but you will love the food. Try the signature turtle soup and a martini.

Take a ghost tour: New Orleans is absolutely haunted, and if you’re not afraid of ghosts, you will absolutely want to take a spooky ghost tour , where you’ll learn about the fantastically scary history of this historic city.

Head to the Palace Market at night: This is the craziest night market in New Orleans and a fun place to people-watch and listen to live jazz.

Head to the Bayou! After leaving New Orleans, explore some of the rural towns that make this area so special.

Basing yourself in Houma or Thibodaux will give you some insight into everyday life in small-town Louisiana, and it’ll be easy to make the drive down to Cocodrie, a tiny town where most of the houses are built on stilts.

Just a couple of hours away, Lafayette is the heart of Cajun and Creole country, and you’ll be able to learn all about the area’s history at multiple museums and cultural centers. If you have time, you can also take a day trip to St. Martinville, Henderson, Erath, or one of several other nearby towns.

On the way back to New Orleans, stop in Louisiana’s capital of Baton Rouge. You can go up to the top of the country’s tallest capitol building and don’t miss the museum housed in Louisiana’s Old State Capitol.

Read more about this winter road trip in Louisiana on Passions and Places. 

Where to Stay on Your Winter Road Trip in Louisiana: We recommend basing yourself in Houma because there are so many affordable hotels to choose from. The Courtyard by Marriott in Houma has an onsite restaurant and an indoor pool. It’s perfect for families.

Discover Georgia and South Carolina on a Winter Road Trip

-by Margie DQ of DQ Family Travel

The southern states of Georgia and South Carolina are great destinations for your winter road trip. Although snow and cold temperatures are possible, the weather is usually mild in the winter. Start the road trip in Atlanta , a fantastic city to visit and explore.

Visitors to Atlanta will enjoy the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Park, touring CNN Studios, and visiting the College Football Hall of Fame.

Less than two hours away, is the quaint German city of Helen. Yes, it is true that there is a little Bavarian village nestled in the mountains of northern Georgia. Not only will visitors enjoy walking the charming downtown area, but there are a number of scenic waterfall hikes less than 5 minutes away.

Another two hours away is the next stop on your winter road trip, Greenville, South Carolina. This city is an up-and-coming destination in the United States. The downtown area boasts several great restaurants, a fantastic children’s museum, and a beautiful waterfall park called Falls Park on the Reedy. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 20-mile paved biking and walking lane connecting Greenville and two smaller towns.

Charleston, South Carolina is a three-hour drive away from Greenville and is loaded with southern charm. Things to do here include walking the waterfront Battery to see Fort Sumter, visiting the Charleston Public Market, and touring a World War II aircraft and submarine in nearby Patriots’ Point.

Charleston has long been known as a foodie city and has numerous famous southern restaurants like Husk and Hominy Grill. A visit to a southern plantation is a nice idea for those wanting to know more about the way of life in the 19th century.

A little over 2 hours away is the small city of Savannah, Georgia. The walkable historic area oozes low-country style. Visitors can ride a paddleboat on the river, explore the many public squares and fountains, and tour famous houses from the colonial period. Heading back to Atlanta is just under a four-hour drive from Savannah.

Where to Stay on your winter road trip through Georgia and South Carolina

Atlanta, Georgia : Hotel Claremont is a trendy hotel in a historic 1920s building. It’s just a mile from Piedmont Park and three miles from the gorgeous Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Helen, Georgia: Located right downtown, Heidi Motel is one of the most photographed buildings in Helen. Close to everything, this independently owned motel is such a gem!

Greenville, South Carolina: The Westin Poinsett has been upgraded and revitalized to offer four-star accommodations at an affordable price.

Charleston, South Carolina: The luxurious hotel experience at Emeline will have you singing winter’s praises all day long. Located in downtown Charleston with beautiful rooms and suites.

Savannah, Georgia: There are so many beautiful hotels in Savannah, but we love The Marshall House , voted the best downtown hotel in Savannah in 2021. Splurge on a balcony room for views of the city.

Winter Road Trip in The Florida Keys

-by Halef of The Round the World Guys

Florida has long been a winter road trip destination for many Americans escaping the cold of the north. One of the best winter road trips in the USA is the Florida Key stretch, starting in Homestead, south of Miami. The ocean highway scenic journey to Key West takes about three hours from mainland Florida.

Key Largo is the first stop in your Florida Keys road trip. Here, you can find some of the best scuba diving destinations in the USA, as well as several great restaurants and pubs to get you in the island mood.

Several other possible pitstops include Islamorada, Marathon Key, and Duck Key. Finally, you’ll come to the end of Highway 1 in Key West. Key West is rich in history, natural beauty, and famous landmarks. You can visit the Southernmost Point Buoy and Historic Marker, Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Key West Lighthouse.

A great day excursion and a hidden gem in Florida is Dry Tortugas National Park . One of the most remote National Parks in the nation, these small islands are simply gorgeous. There is so much to do and to see here, starting from a guided tour of historic Fort Jefferson to kayaking or snorkeling in the turquoise waters around the islands.

It’s a trip you won’t soon forget.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys : We recommend a night or two in Key Largo and a night or two in Key West so you can turn this little road trip into a relaxing vacation. Key Largo hotels are on the pricey side, but the cottages at the Seafarer Resort and Beach are more affordable than many hotel rooms. The resort is family-owned with amazing views with a beach, kayaks, and fabulous snorkeling. 

There are some amazing and quite luxurious lodging choices in Key West, but a good mid-range hotel is the Best Western Hibiscus, which is just one block away from the famous Duval Street. It’s three blocks from the beach with a spacious outdoor pool. 

Visit the Desert Parks in California

-by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

California’s desert national and state parks make for a wonderful winter road trip. With pleasant daytime temperatures, you can get out of the car and explore the desert, whether it is through hiking a canyon or walking on sand dunes. The spectacular landscapes and amazing night skies will leave you spellbound.

Start this amazing winter road trip in Las Vegas, Nevada, a popular landing spot for both US and international travelers because of its proximity to many natural wonders. You can loop back to Vegas after you tour the parks, or end your trip in Los Angeles. From Las Vegas, head first to Death Valley National Park in southern California.

About 2.5 hours away from Vegas by road, Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Known for having recorded the hottest temperature ever on earth, Death Valley is very pleasant during the daytime in winter although it gets chilly at night.

At Death Valley National Park, you can walk on vast salt flats, photograph picture-perfect gold sand dunes, see the sunrise at the spectacular Zabriskie Point, and hike colorful canyons. Allow at least one full day to see the highlights. Spend the night in the park, or just outside it, where there are numerous lodging options to meet every budget.

Early the next day, drive to Palm Springs, California, about 5 hours away. In the afternoon, explore the city of Palm Springs, famous for its mid-century modern architecture and palm-lined main shopping street. Spend the night at Andreas Hotel and Spa, a luxurious Spanish Revival resort with amazing spa treatments and an outdoor pool. 

On day three, explore Anza Borrego State Park, about 90 minutes from Palm Springs. You will drive past the strange Salton Sea, a saltwater lake that seems to go on forever. At Anza Borrego, marvel at the huge metal sculptures strewn around the desert, hike through a slot canyon and enjoy a desert sunset.  Sleep in Palm Springs.

On the final day, get an early start for your day in Joshua Tree National Park, about an hour away.

There are tons of things to do in Joshua Tree! Do some rock scrambling on the gigantic boulders that Joshua Tree is known for. Watch expert rock climbers in action. Hike a trail or two. Admire the diverse plants in the park, including the strange Joshua tree for which the park is named.

Joshua Tree National Park is located not in one desert but two…the Mojave and the Colorado. At the end of the day, drive to Los Angeles, a little over 2 hours away, or back to Las Vegas.

Escape the Cold with a Winter Road Trip in Maui, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Maui has long been a tourist mecca, and for good reason too! With more than 120 miles of beautiful coastline, Maui draws crowds from all over the world. Would you believe, however, that most visitors to Hawaii’s second-largest island barely venture beyond the beach?

Now I’m not saying that the picturesque beaches are not something to ogle at, but there are so many other hidden gems just waiting to be discovered, and you may have to venture off the beaten path to get there.

One such gem is the lava fields of La Perouse Bay which, of course, requires a scenic road trip.

All roads lead to home, right? In this case, I would suggest starting in Kaanapali simply because all the fantastic resorts— such as the Marriott Maui Ocean Club —and restaurants here make for a great base of operations.

You can travel down highway 30. It will eventually turn to highway 3000 but will revert back to highway 30. Along the way, you will get to enjoy stunning views since the highway brushes right up against the coastline in many places. There are plenty of worthwhile detours too, such as the Launiupoko and Ukumehame Beach Parks, as well as the Maui Ocean Center. 

From Highway 30, you will turn onto Highway 310, which will turn into Highway 31 and will eventually turn into Makena Road. Of course, you can stop by Makena State Park on the way and experience the luster of one of the largest white sand beaches on the island.

Eventually, you will have to ditch the wheels since the road will eventually end and become a walking trail. As you walk across the jagged lava fields, keep in mind that you’re literally walking on history. The last lava flow in La Perouse Bay occurred way back in 1790.

Road Trip from Phoenix, Arizona to Las Vegas, Nevada

-by Jodie Dewberry of Ala Jode

A winter road trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas is a great way to combine some of the USA’s coolest spots in one long weekend – and enjoy some variety, too!

As soon as you head out of Phoenix, drive up through the stunning landscapes of Tonto National Forest or Prescott National Forest, before arriving at one of the natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. Stay here overnight near the South Rim and enjoy a sunset like no other.

In the morning, you’ll want to get up early to drive to the Havasupai Trailhead. If you want to attempt the Havasupai hike , you’ll need at least a full day because it takes around 5 hours each way.

Staying overnight at Havasu Falls is well worth it if you can get a spot – and the wintertime is pretty much the only time of year that’s possible! If you don’t fancy the hike, you can take a helicopter one way for around $100. It’s about a 4-hour drive from the Havasupai trailhead to Las Vegas.

Vegas is the kind of place everybody should visit at least once, and you’ll appreciate the extravagant hotel room (and bathtub!) even more after a night at Havasu Falls. Depending on how much time you have, spend at least one night enjoying the Vegas Strip and taking it all in.

Where to stay in the Grand Canyon: The Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn is just minutes from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon with expansive grounds, a gorgeous pool, and on-site dining.

Where to stay in Las Vegas:  There are so many lodging choices in Vegas, it’s hard to choose a favorite. I suggest staying right on the strip so you can walk around and take in the sites. Paris Las Vegas is quite posh for the price, with great dining options, fabulous views, and a massive pool. 

Embrace the Cold with these Beautiful Winter Road Trips in the USA

While some folks hope to escape the cold on their winter travels, others want to embrace it. The following destinations make the best winter road trips for folks who don’t mind snow or freezing temperatures. Some of these destinations are actually quite mild in the winter months – we just can’t make any promises.

Drive Route 100 in Vermont

Vermont’s longest state highway runs 216 miles from north to south, through the rugged Green Mountains. Route 100 is incredibly scenic and well-loved, meandering through small New England villages, the Green Mountain National Forest, and alongside a number of ski resorts and beautiful state parks. 

Along the way, you’ll find a wealth of recreation opportunities, not to mention fabulous shopping, dining, and lodging. It’s no wonder Yankee Magazine named Vermont’s route 100 one of the best summer road trips in New England.

Traveling route 100 in the winter is a bit more adventurous than in other seasons, but unless there’s a major snowstorm, the road is generally well-maintained throughout the winter. Begin your journey in the mountain village of Wilmington, just north of the Vermont-Massachusetts border.

Here you’ll find several boutiques, fabulous restaurants, and bed and breakfasts. Wilmington is a bit of a hub because of its proximity to Mt. Snow, which is one of Vermont’s best-loved ski resorts.

As you head north, be sure to stop in Weston, which is home to the world-famous Vermont Country Store. If you fancy a local microbrew with your view, check out Long Trail Brewing Company in Bridgewater Corners.

The farther north you travel, the more the mountains and forests will be covered in snow. Instead of shutting down for the winter season, Vermonters embrace it.

Waterbury, in the northern Green Mountains, is foodie heaven – home to Ben & Jerry’s, Cabot Cheese, Lake Champlain Chocolates, and Cold Hollow Cider. Spend some time here and indulge!

Explore the Red Rocks of Utah 

-by Jamie Joyner of Photo Jeepers

The adventure town of Moab, Utah is our favorite place to go for a weekend road trip in the winter. It’s a great spot to escape the cold and snow for a few days to enjoy outdoor activities. Exploring Arches National Park in the winter is one of our favorite destinations. It’s the off-season so there are no crowds and the temperature is nice for hiking the trails compared to the scorching heat during the summer. 

Drive about 25 miles to visit Canyonlands Island in the Sky and Dead Horse Point State Park. You can photograph the stunning views or explore the trails on foot or bike, again without the crowds or heat. Winter temperatures in the area are pretty moderate with the high being 40-50 degrees and lows in the 20-degree range.

Moab is a high-elevation desert. The nights are cold and the days are warm. Be sure to dress in layers. It usually doesn’t snow, but when it does, it doesn’t last long. The white snow against the red rocks is spectacular to see!

There are plenty of things to do on a weekend road trip in the winter with 2 national parks, 1 state park, and numerous hiking and off-road trails near Moab. You’ll wish you had more time than just the weekend!

Where to stay in Moab: Red Cliffs Lodge ! What an idyllic setting! It’s perched on the Colorado River on 220 acres and is surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs. The rooms are comfortable and affordable and it’s very close to the national parks and all the Moab attractions.

Switchbacks and Scenery in the  Smoky Mountains

-by Amanda Bowers of VeraVise Outdoor Living

There is no better way to get a glimpse at what makes the Smokies so special than to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains on Hwy 441 through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to Cherokee, North Carolina.   

Day 1: Gatlinburg, TN

Spend the day hiking to Rainbow Falls or exploring the shops and restaurants downtown. Stay at Hilton’s Doubletree Park Vista Inn for the best views of the mountains and downtown Gatlinburg.

Day 2: Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC

Since you are taking to the road today, we recommend grabbing a coffee and a donut at the Donut Friar. Then hit the road early to get ahead of the traffic. Make a brief stop at Sugarlands Visitor Center, then continue south on Highway 441 to the 5,048-foot Newfound Gap where Tennessee meets North Carolina.

After taking in the view of this “lowland” area, drive 15 minutes to the Clingman’s Dome parking area, grab your lunch and backpack, and take the steep but not too technical hike to Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in Tennessee at 6,643 feet.

Finish the day by heading to Cherokee, NC to learn about the Cherokee Nation at their outdoor theatre or try your hand at the slots at Harrah’s Casino.  We recommend driving on into Asheville, NC to spend the night unless you stay at Harrah’s as the hotel choices are fairly limited in this area.

Day 3: Asheville, NC

If you took our recommendation to stay in Asheville, you will have already arrived in our little “Los Angeles” of the east.  Time doesn’t allow us to go into all there is to do in Asheville, NC, but we definitely recommend some time be spent touring America’s Largest Home: The Biltmore Estate. You can also enter the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville to enjoy even more breathtaking mountain scenery.

Road Trip from Chicago to Memphis

-by Roxanna Keyes of Gypsy with a Day Job

Chicago to Memphis is an ideal winter road trip if you don’t mind the cold.  There is so much to do, and most of the driving is along Interstate 55, so road upkeep should be good. 

There are a dozen potential stops, but for 3 or 4 days, stick to the major cities. As a starting point, Chicago has a multitude of things to do, but for some unique winter choices, try sledding beneath Soldier Field, or ice skating in front of the Jelly Bean at Millenium Park, or at the Sky Rink at Peninsula Chicago.

Once on the road, Springfield, Illinois is the first stop.  The Abraham Lincoln Home National Historic site is open all year, and there are a number of other sites within walking distance, including the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which is fun and educational for all ages.

St. Louis is your next stop.  Visit the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, one of the newest National Parks in the United States.  Tour the Old Courthouse, let children participate in the Junior Ranger program, and take that heart-racing trip to the top of the Arch. 

Afterward, try a brewery tour, or spend some time outside at Forest Park, with a walk through the zoo, and outdoor ice skating at Steinberg Skating Rink.

Wrap up in Memphis, where the essentials are the Mud Island River Park and Museum, with its outdoor scale model of the Mississippi River, and the National Civil Rights Museum, which shares the story of Dr. Martin Luther King and the ongoing fight for equality. 

Music lovers may want to go a different route, with a visit to Graceland, the Stax Museum of American Soul, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Sun Records.

Fall in Love with Winter in Hocking Hills, Ohio

-by Tonya Prater of Travel Inspired Living

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Hocking Hills, you’ll find it to be one of the most scenic destinations in Ohio. But when winter hits and the region is blanketed with a layer of snow and the waterfalls slowly turn to ice the landscape is transformed into a Winter Wonderland. 

While the main draw to the area is the hiking trails located in the nearby state parks (there are five of them), you’ll also find the small towns throughout the region are worth a visit too.

To reach Hocking Hills, travelers in Central Ohio can take State Route 33 E south out of Columbus. I suggest taking a slight detour on to 22E to explore downtown Lancaster. Grab a bite to eat at The Well or JB’s Downtown Grill, shop for locally handcrafted goods at Miss Molly’s Mercantile, or explore the displays in the Ohio Glass Museum. Don’t miss the artwork on the square by local students.

Head back to 33 E and follow it to State Route 664. If you turn towards Walmart, you’ll head into Logan to find the Hocking Hills Winery, Olde Dutch Restaurant for Amish-style buffet dining, or Pearl’s Diner for down-home cooking.

You’ll also find the World’s Largest Washboard hanging on the side of the Columbus Washboard Co., the only manufacturer of washboards in the United States. Turning right on 664 leads you to Old Man’s Cave State Park, one of the most photographed trails in the area. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls are all a short distance away.

Continuing further on 664, you’ll come to historic Nelsonville. You’ll find unique architecture, an opera house with regular events, and The Emporium, an art gallery full of items from local artists. Grab a cup of coffee at FullBrooks Cafe and a bit to eat at The Boot Grill in the Rocky Outdoor Gear Outlet.

Where to Stay in Hocking Hills: At The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, you can stay in your own beautifully decorated yurt or a room in the main lodge. Free breakfast is available and the spa treatments are wonderful. 

Take the Back Roads: Salt Lake City to Las Vegas

-by Carol Guttery of Wayfaring Views

Take the slow road on a winter road trip from Salt Lake City, Utah to Las Vegas, Nevada.

If you drive it straight through, it’s six hours on a mind-numbing interstate freeway. But stretch it to three days and you can tack on two national parks, three state parks, and all of the red rock you can handle.

Doing the list below extends your drive time to ten hours, but that leaves you plenty of time for hiking and sightseeing.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Do sunrise at Sunset Point and/or sunset at Sunrise Point. Queens Garden is a nice, short day hike.
• Zion National Park (enter from the east via Hwy 9): Check in at the ranger station for ranger-led hikes or consider the Canyon Loverlook Trail for views.
• Snow Canyon State Park: Pick your distance from many interconnecting trails.
• Valley of Fire State Park: A lot of the interesting geology on or just off the paved roads. The Fire Wave hike is the most popular.
• Las Vegas: Go retro and do some fun kitschy things in downtown Vegas . If you have an extra half-day, go hiking in Red Rock Canyon, just west of Las Vegas.

Are you inspired to plan your next winter road trip in the USA? Leave a comment and tell us where you’re headed! Need packing advice? Check out our winter road trip packing list for cold-weather adventures.

Follow us on social media for more travel inspiration!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

thank you for sharing amazing article on road trip, USA

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8 Great American Winter Road Trips

Explore legendary routes that pack plenty of scenery and few crowds.

Getty Images

From North Carolina to California, here's where you should hit the road this winter.

You've probably considered road tripping in spring or fall, when brilliant floral or foliage displays entice us to fill up the tank and take a drive. But in winter, when famed rock formations are frosted with snow and America's top national parks are crowd-free, you can experience the country's iconic routes with less traffic and reduced lodging rates. Of course, driving in winter comes with its own caveats. "Always have one or two alternate routes at the ready should weather force a plan B," advises Gabe Saglie, senior editor at Travelzoo. With that in mind, here are incredible drives across the country to experience this winter.

[See: 10 Bucket List Winter Family Vacation Experiences .]

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tennessee and North Carolina

The scenic route along Interstate 40 and U.S. 321 through the Great Smoky Mountains, from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina, looks like a storybook setting out of Europe in winter, says Rebecca Warren, Lonely Planet's eastern U.S. destination editor. "Incorporate the city of Gatlinburg for some kitschy fun, trading the road for the sky as you take the aerial tramway to get a great view across the mountains," Warren says. And don't miss hitting the trails when you need a break from the road. As for lodging, the LeConte Lodge offers high-end accommodations at a reasonable rate, with cabins (and two meals) available nightly for $140 per person through Nov. 22, 2016.

Big Bend National Park Texas

Big Bend National Park offers plenty of striking landscapes to explore. "This enormous park is stunning, offering incomparable vistas across wide expanses of desert," Warren says. "With more than 100 miles of paved roads, the winter offers pleasant temperatures that allow you to stop and take in some of the park's fantastic hikes without having to deal with the triple-digit heat found here in summer," she adds. Don't skip cruising along the 30-mile-long Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which features striking geological formations and the limestone cliffs of the Santa Elena Canyon. Plus, you can score affordable lodging at Chisos Mountains Lodge, with nightly rates in December available for around $140.

Florida Keys Florida

Florida's famous 113-mile drive along Route 1 affords a memorable journey year-round, but in winter, you can escape the chillier temperatures of the Midwest and Northeast to enjoy outdoor pursuits like kayaking in Bahia Honda State Park and a dose of history in Key West. "Key West has a party-hearty reputation," explains Robert Firpo-Cappiello, editor-in-chief of BudgetTravel.com. "But it also offers Victorian homes, kayaking, art galleries and beautiful beaches," he explains. Plus, you can secure affordable accommodations in Key West. Hotel deal site goSeek.com shows nightly rates for three-and-a-half star accommodations in the area for around $115 in December.

Hudson Valley New York

Striking vistas abound after you hop across the Tappan Zee Bridge along Interstate 287 to visit charming towns, such as Nyack and Rhinebeck. "This region is beautiful in the winter, with winding roads and stately homes in plentiful supply," Warren says. "Drive along the Saw Mill River Parkway for peaceful views that make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of nearby New York City ," she adds. Along the way, stop at Hyde Park, an estate filled with a beaux arts palace and a Georgian colonial home that is part of the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. This history-filled journey is ideal for weekend jaunts.

Vermont's Route 100 Vermont

Vermont bursts with picturesque scenes, characterized by glistening slopes, charming small towns and villages and quaint lodges. And along the idyllic Route 100 roadway, you'll weave past little-known towns such as Wilmington, Weston and Stowe , and have the chance to visit unique attractions, like the Trapp Family Lodge. For a stay to remember, don't skip bunking down at Stowe Mountain Lodge, A Destination Resort , which offers rooms starting around $280 in December (early booking promotions are also available). For a cost-effective alternative, Firpo-Cappiello points to Stratton, Vermont, as an enticing area in the Green Mountain State, thanks to its beautiful resort, pristine terrain and reasonably priced ski lift tickets.

[See: 6 Secret Ski Destinations You Can Afford .]

Arches National Park Utah

In winter, Arches National Park is blanketed in snow, making its stunning sandstone rock formations even more postcard-worthy. Plus, you won't battle many other visitors as you take in the area's surroundings and otherworldly desert scenes. Make sure to snake along Scenic Drive for the best views of top points of interest such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock. An ideal entry point to Arches is about 5 miles north of Moab, Utah, along U.S. Highway 191. After admiring park highlights and hitting the trails, head to the heart of Moab, where you'll find budget-friendly places to stay, like the Red Cliffs Lodge (rooms are available for around $120 nightly in December) along with plenty of charming eateries and breweries.

The Pacific Coast Highway Southern California

"Winter weather can be great in the Golden State, and rainfall becomes a much bigger factor in January and February, so hit the road in the first half of winter," Saglie says. He suggests taking a classic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego, with stops in Orange County, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and coastal areas, like Morro Bay. Firpo-Cappiello also suggests carving out some additional time to explore can't-miss and affordable attractions in San Diego , such as Balboa Park and its 100-acre zoo. The drive from San Diego to Santa Monica also affords the chance to experience alluring coastal areas, including Laguna Beach.

[See: America's Best Family Road Trips .]

Lake Tahoe Nevada

If you've ever wanted to cruise along the 28-mile-long Lake Tahoe National Scenic Byway, consider making this scenic journey in winter. At this time of year, snow dusts the peaks along the Sierra Nevada range and the area's alpine regions beckon outdoor enthusiasts to partake in cold-weather pastimes, such as skiing, sledding and ice skating. You can also hit the trails and enjoy the splendors of the sprawling Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park and unwind in Incline Village, a charming town in North Lake Tahoe with plenty of skiable terrain and laid-back mountain lodges.

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• Winter Vacations

13 Beautiful Winter Drives Around the United States

There’s a lot to see on these winter road trips, from iconic national parks to covered bridges and a centuries-old fort.

Winter can be an ideal time to explore America's open roads. Cruising through a landscape blanketed with a fresh coat of snow is a dreamy way to travel during what, for many destinations, is the off-season. The fact that winter usually sees fewer tourists on the road certainly doesn't hurt.

Of course, winter driving comes with its own set of precautions. Snow makes the scenery pop, but it also makes the roads slick. And slick roads are challenging to navigate when you're in unfamiliar territory. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends stocking your ride with a basic winter survival kit containing an ice scraper, jumper cables, and road flares, a flashlight, batteries, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit. (Tire chains couldn't hurt either.) Always confirm that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance before embarking on a winter drive.

Ready to hit the road? Read on for 13 of the most beautiful winter drives in the U.S., from Florida to Alaska.

Arches National Park Road, Utah

Starting point: Arches National Park entrance

The route: 36 miles round trip on the park's scenic drive

What to expect: Beautiful any time of year, Arches National Park 's natural sandstone sculptures assume an ethereal quality when covered in a layer of snow and bathed in soft winter light — much to the delight of desert photographers. The National Park Service keeps the scenic drive plowed, though the process could take several hours right after a snowfall.

The paved Arches National Park Road , an out-and-back route, provides easy access to park attractions like the historic cabin Wolfe Ranch; the Windows Section , home to some of the park's largest arches; and the Delicate Arch viewpoint, the best-known attraction in the park.

Where to stop: Park in the Windows Section to stretch your legs on a half-hour stroll beneath North Window or Double Arch. About four miles further on the drive, stop at Wolfe Ranch and pretend you've traveled back to the 1800s. From here, you can hike a mile and a half uphill to Delicate Arch, but beware of ice on the trail.

Seward Highway, Alaska

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Anchorage, Alaska

The route: About 50 miles on the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Portage

What to expect: Find the epitome of beautiful winter scenery among the snowcapped peaks of Chugach National Forest as you travel along Alaska's Seward Highway. Finish the journey at the ghost town of Portage or steel your nerves — and make sure you have chains — for the remainder of the drive all the way to Seward, another 80 miles past Portage.

Although Alaska is known for its cold and snowy climate, the Seward Highway is a highly trafficked route that stays relatively clear through the winter. The drive from Anchorage to Portage takes only about an hour — two and a half hours if you go all the way to Seward — so it can absolutely be done in a day.

Where to stop: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a close-up view of native fauna — like reindeer, lynx, moose, and grizzlies — that have been injured and can no longer survive in the wild. The tiny settlement of Whittier (about halfway between Anchorage and Seward) is known as "the town under one roof" because most of its residents live in the same 14-story building (which also houses the post office, police station, convenience store, and health clinic). Its remoteness and notably small population (of about 250 people) have turned it into a tourist attraction.

Yosemite Valley Loop, California

Don Smith/Alamy

Starting point: Groveland, California

The route: CA-120/Big Oak Flat Road from Groveland to El Portal Road in Yosemite, then El Portal Road to Southside Drive, looping around to Northside Drive and ending back at El Portal Road, about 45 miles

What to expect: Driving through Yosemite Valley in the off-season reveals an awe-strikingly silent winter wonderland. Snowfalls coat its granite monoliths, and cold temperatures turn parts of Yosemite Falls to ice. The park has many annual winter road closures , but Yosemite Valley and Wawona remain accessible by car all year. Specifically, Wawona Road (Highway 41), El Portal Road (Highway 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 from the west), and Hetch Hetchy Road are open year-round but subject to weather-related closures.

Where to stop: The adventurous set can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area, accessible from mid-December through early April. The road to get to it is maintained, but tire chains are often required. Besides that, make sure to stop under El Capitan in the Valley and admire its grandeur.

Covered Bridge Circuit Through Parke County, Indiana

Starting point: Rockville, Indiana

The route: Bridgeton Road from Rockville to Bridgeton, High Banks and Rosedale roads to Rosedale, Coxville Road to Mecca, then Mecca Road and U.S. Highway 41 back to Rockville, totaling about 45 miles

What to expect: With 31 historic covered bridges, Parke County is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World," and perhaps the best time to see them is after it snows. The bridges, many of them built in the 1800s and still in use, cross icy rivers and streams, contrasting gorgeously with meadows blanketed in white. There are many different routes you can take, but this loop showcases eight bridges and takes about an hour and a half.

Where to stop: Along the route, pause to admire the McAllister Covered Bridge, built in 1914; Neet Covered Bridge; Bridgeton Covered Bridge; Roseville Covered Bridge, the longest of the eight; Mecca Bridge, the oldest (completed in 1873); Phillip's Bridge, the shortest; Sim Smith Bridge, supposedly haunted; and Melcher Bridge. If you fancy a snack midway, stop in Rosedale for biscuits and gravy or a slice of pie at Comar's Cafe .

Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Starting point: Front Royal or Rockfish Gap, Virginia

The route: 105 miles between Front Royal and Rockfish Gap on Skyline Drive

What to expect: The Blue Ridge Mountains are arguably the prettiest peaks in the eastern United States, and Skyline Drive carries travelers right along their crest. It's the only public road through Shenandoah National Park (though portions may close during inclement weather). In the winter , many of Shenandoah's 500-plus miles of trails remain open for snowshoe and ski enthusiasts keen to see crystallized waterfalls and other iced-over sites.

Where to stop: Stick to the 35-mph speed limit and pick any of the 75 overlooks along the drive for sprawling views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west or the Piedmont Mountains to the east. Watch for wildlife, too — though many animals hibernate, foxes and bobcats remain active all winter.

Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

Starting point: Ouray or Silverton, Colorado

The route: 24 miles on U.S. 550 between Ouray and Silverton

What to expect: Is this Colorado road called the Million Dollar Highway for its million-dollar views? Or because an early traveler was so spooked by the route's steep climbs and hairpin turns that he claimed he would never travel it again, not even for a million dollars? Perhaps it's because the road reportedly cost a million dollars a mile to build. Whatever the reason, there's no denying the dramatic drive – part of the San Juan Skyway, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway – offers priceless mountain vistas.

Keep in mind that the highway, or sections of it, can close due to snow. During the winter, snow chains are recommended as it's a mountainous route with many steep cliffs and sharp turns.

Where to stop: Pull over at any of the designated viewpoints to take in natural wonders like Bear Creek Falls and the iron-rich peaks of Red Mountain. If you plan to stick around for more exploring, make the historic town of Silverton your basecamp. A bit off the route but still worth a visit is the ghost town and former mining hub of Animas Forks.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina

Starting point: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The route: About 120 miles on U.S. Highway 441 and the Blue Ridge Parkway

What to expect: This drive takes you through the stunning alpine wilderness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest. From Gatlinburg, stop along U.S. 441 at Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, then hop on the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Stretch your legs on a winter hike to the Devil's Courthouse summit before continuing the journey to Asheville.

Where to stop: Play for a day at Ober Mountain , a mountainside amusement park with skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more — the 2.1-mile Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg to the top is a scenic treat in itself. On the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll get your pick of more than 50 scenic pullouts with mountain views. On the other side, in Asheville, a tour of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate is a must.

Route 100, Vermont

Dennis Curran/VermontVacation.com

Starting point: Stowe, Vermont

The route: 142 miles on VT-100

What to expect: Most roads that traverse this beautiful state are scenic, but Vermont Route 100 (VT-100) is arguably the best of the lot. It puts road-trippers in the perfect position for exploring the charming villages of Wilmington and Weston and touring the Mad River Valley and Moss Glen Falls. Winter is an excellent time to visit this part of Vermont, big on skiing and winter sports. Even if you aren't in the mood for outdoor adventure, the atmosphere is cozy and lively as ever.

Where to stop: Almost every village on the route offers a quaint country store, but Weston's old-timey Vermont Country Store is the ultimate pit stop for practical souvenirs and unique regional treats. And it may be winter, but the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury is nevertheless a must-visit.

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Starting point: Chimayo, New Mexico

The route: 49 miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Chimayo and Taos on NM-76, aka the High Road

What to expect: An hour-long journey into the high desert will reward you with sights of snow-dusted junipers and piñon pines as you travel past the wood-carving village of Cordova, marveling at the snow-capped Truchas Peak rising 13,102 feet high in the distance. Start at Nambé Pueblo , a centuries-old Indigenous community just south of Chimayo, for a dose of history.

Where to stop: Santuario de Chimayo , near the starting point of this drive, stands on what some consider sacred ground with miraculous healing powers. San José de Gracia de Las Trampas is a National Historic Landmark along the High Road. Closer to Taos, San Francisco de Asís Mission Church dates back more than 200 years.

Highway 57 in Door County North, Wisconsin

Starting point: Green Bay, Wisconsin

The route: 85 miles on Wisconsin Highway 57 from Green Bay to Gills Rock

What to expect: Door County North provides the Upper Midwest with its own Cape Cod experience: Think coastal towns, local shops, and family-owned restaurants that invite a heartwarming winter escape. The popular hour, 45-minute winter drive between Green Bay and Gills Rock ping-pongs between the eastern and western shores of the peninsula. After passing through a handful of small, historic towns, you'll land at the top.

Where to stop: Take every opportunity to stop and soak in the sites of Lake Michigan. On the eastern shore, you'll find the tallest dunes in Wisconsin at Whitefish Dunes State Park and some extraordinary cliffside ice formations at the nearby Cave Point County Park . At Newport State Park , on Lake Michigan near Gills Rock, you can cross-country ski on more than 26 miles of trails. Newport is also a designated Dark Sky Park , and long winter nights are great for stargazing.

Lake Tahoe Loop, California and Nevada

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Starting point: Incline Village, Nevada, or South Lake Tahoe, California

The route: 72 miles around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe on NV-28, U.S. 50, and CA-89

What to expect: Sierra Nevada peaks are reflected in one of the deepest lakes in North America, casting breathtaking scenes on its glassy surface — an especially resplendent sight in winter. It takes about two hours to drive the perimeter of Lake Tahoe without stopping, but plan extra time for whatever beauty captures your attention along the way. The route on the eastern side of Lake Tahoe (in Nevada) is a National Scenic Byway, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

Where to stop: Sand Harbor , part of the 14,300-acre Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, is an ideal place to dip your toes into the icy lake (it never freezes) before hitting the trails for a winter walk, snowshoe, or ski. Additionally, stop near the state line closest to South Lake Tahoe for a scenic gondola ride to Heavenly Ski Resort , home to a viewing platform offering epic bird's-eye views of the lake along with tubing and ice skating.

Lakes to Locks Passage, New York

Starting point: Waterford or Whitehall, New York

The route: 60 miles on U.S. 4 between Waterford and Whitehall

What to expect: This National Scenic Byway travels north–south for 190 miles through northeastern New York State, but the stretch between Waterford and Whitehall is especially beautiful. When the temperature drops below freezing, the lakes and ponds along this National Scenic Byway turn into ice-fishing destinations.

More into birds than fish? This winter drive passes through the Atlantic Flyway, so keep an eye out for overwintering dark-eyed juncos, evening grosbeaks, and purple finches.

Where to stop: Enjoy views of the Hudson River and the Champlain Canal along the drive. At Saratoga National Historical Park , stop at the Schuyler Estate , built in 1777 as the home of General Philip Schuyler, Alexander Hamilton's father-in-law. It's where the wedding of Hamilton and General Schuyler's daughter Elizabeth took place in 1780.

Interstate 95 to U.S. 1, Florida

Starting point: St. Augustine, Florida

The route: About 470 miles; take I-95 from St. Augustine to Miami before switching to U.S. 1 from Miami to Key West

What to expect: Not up to battling winter road hazards? Skip chilly temperatures and enjoy Florida's glorious take on winter. For a scenic drive that showcases the best of the Sunshine State, head south along its Atlantic coast from St. Augustine — the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States — all the way to Key West , the southernmost point of the continental U.S. You'll find sand in place of snow and palms instead of pines.

Where to stop: Explore must-see highlights like historic St. Augustine, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S. The route passes by the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Miami (make sure to stop for a cortadito in Little Havana for a perfect behind-the-wheel pick-me-up), and the Florida Keys , where you'll cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge on your way to Key West.

6 U.S. Road Trips to Take This Winter

By Emily Pennington

A dusting of powdery, white snow is beginning to fall across the country, but that doesn’t have to mean your road tripping days are over. With a little extra research and creativity, winter can be a fantastic season to go for a drive, whether that's a sunny desert escape or a slope-searching tour du ski. We’ve compiled a list of our winter-specific favorites, with a little something for everyone—from active travelers to fine dining gourmands to national park collectors. They're all across the country, too, so wherever you are, a great winter road trip route isn't far. 

As always during the pandemic , locations mentioned are subject to alter their hours and operations at any time, so check with any restaurants and attractions before hitting the road. Likewise, it’s a good idea to read up on state travel restrictions prior to commencing a trip. Read on for six of our favorite winter road trips, from Tennessee to Washington. 

Zion National Park to Moab National Park, Utah

The onset of winter shouldn’t automatically mean that sunny days in the great outdoors are over; to chase bright, dry skies, head for the desert. This jaunt will have you swooning over Utah’s myriad of red rocks, elaborate hoodoos, and slot canyons, with pitstops in Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef, and Arches national parks. Spend a full week to really soak up the scenery (and craft beer).

Where to stop: Begin early in Zion to take in the sunrise glow from within the fabled canyon walls. Stop for photos and say hello to the horses in rustic, cliff-lined Fruita in Capitol Reef National Park , then cruise up to Moab for the Arches scenic drive before taking in sunset at Dead Horse Point .

Where to eat: Enjoy epic views, casual Mexican fusion and local brews just outside Zion National Park at Whiptail Grill . In Moab, savor wood-fired pizza at Antica Forma , topped with fresh house-made mozzarella (they craft 200 pounds in-store each morning).

Where to stay: For canyon views, it doesn’t get better than Xanterra’s Zion Lodge . If you’re brave enough to camp in the cold , the Fruita Campground in Capitol Reef is one of the dreamiest in the state. Top it all off with a little R&R at Moab's Red Cliffs Lodge . Perched right on the banks of the Colorado River , enjoy southwestern décor, in-room jacuzzi tubs, and sky-high red rock views from their dining hall, The Cowboy Grill.

Highway 395, California

Winding past historic wild west towns and countless dramatic 14ers (mountains with elevations of at least 14,000 feet), California’s Highway 395 is a stunner at any time of year. It really sings in winter, though, when you can marvel at the snow-capped Sierra Nevada and enjoy your après-ski in chic mountain lodges. Allow at least a few nights (four minimum) for this route. 

Where to stop: Snap a photo at the famous Mobius Arch (and gaze up at an icy Mount Whitney) in the Alabama Hills , just outside of historic Lone Pine. Stretch your legs on the accessible boardwalk around stunning Convict Lake , then cozy up for a quick drive over to Mammoth Mountain for some downhill fun. Before parking in Reno , take a breathtaking gondola ride in Tahoe for the best views of California’s largest lake.

Where to eat: Copper Top BBQ in tiny Big Pine, California, was voted the best restaurant in the country on Yelp back in 2015, and their pulled pork still lives up to the hype. For fancier fare, reserve a table at Chef Lonny Huot’s Edgewood Restaurant in South Lake Tahoe and feast your eyes on a spectacular sunset over the lake.

Where to stay: Lounge in luxury at the lakeside Edgewood Resort in Tahoe. Committed to minimizing its environmental footprint (it's a LEED-certified building), this world-class hotel and spa offers superb dining and waterfront views.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, to Nashville

One of the best things about east coast mountains (apart from their rich human history) is their year-round accessibility, due to being lower in elevation than their counterparts out west. This trip is all about soaking up the best of both worlds—the human and the wilderness—from the panoramic views of Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive, to a spooky tour of Mammoth Cave, and even the lively honky-tonk bars in Nashville’s historic downtown. 

Where to stop: Shenandoah National Park , in Northern Virginia, is a hiker’s dream, with 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail cutting right along the park’s spine. From there, it’s easy to continue onto the Blue Ridge Parkway all the way to Great Smoky Mountains . Head to Cades Cove to take in the centuries-old Cherokee and homestead history of the area, before veering north towards a self-guided tour of Mammoth Cave National Park .

Where to eat: Nashville’s Geist has consistently been rated one of the most beautiful restaurants in the country, with its 1886 brick façade, twinkling chandeliers, and studded barstools. Plus, no trip to Music City would be complete without a drink and a live show at the iconic Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge .

Where to stay: Just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains lies The Lodge at Buckberry Creek , a boutique, all-suite stay away from the bustle of downtown Gatlinburg that’s decked out with gas fireplaces, private balconies, and soaking tubs to soothe those post-hike bones. In Nashville , enjoy the colorful décor and stained glass at The Russell , where no two of their quirky, upscale rooms are alike.

Boulder to Durango, Colorado

There’s nothing quite like the scenic splendor of the Rockies, especially with a dusting of fresh snow. Start in Boulder, nestled beneath spellbinding Rocky Mountain National Park , then wheel past Vail to Avalanche Ranch and its soakworthy hot springs. The trip ends with a cliff’s edge drive along the winding Million Dollar Highway , weather permitting.

Where to stop: Moraine Park has some of the best views in the Rockies and is a fantastic spot to search for elk in the snowy valley. Afterwards, enjoy the twinkling lights and small-town shops of neighboring Estes Park . Downhill addicts won’t want to miss a stopover in Vail before steering through Aspen towards the eerie, narrow Black Canyon of the Gunnison . Lastly, explore Durango’s wilderness and mining history with a railroad ride into Cascade Canyon .

Where to eat: From their organic, locally-sourced alpine ingredients to their extensive, curated wine list, the creative tapas of Leonora at The Sebastian in Vail won’t disappoint. For local brews and epic tacos in a more casual setting, try Avalanche Brewing Company in Silverton.

Where to stay: The St. Julien Hotel & Spa in Boulder offers eco-friendly elegance, a great restaurant (Jill’s), and spectacular views of the Flatirons mountains from your very own in-room patio.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

Vermont to Maine

Frigid New England might not be the first place that comes to mind when brainstorming a winter road trip, but take one look at Vermont’s storybook villages like Weston , Wilmington , and Stowe , and we bet you’ll change your tune. Tack on a trip to Acadia National Park , by way of lobster-rich Portland , Maine, and experience the ragged Atlantic coastline free of summer crowds.

Where to stop: Have an Instagram moment at frozen Moss Glen Falls , then cruise along Vermont’s scenic Route 100, stopping for the infamous Vermont Country Store in Weston and a quaint horse-drawn carriage ride. Savor a scoop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury and round out the trip with a drive along the plowed portion of Ocean Drive in Acadia .

Where to eat: Havana , in Bar Harbor, Maine, is just minutes from Acadia, serves a mean seafood paella, and boasts a noteworthy wine list. Reservations are recommended.

Where to stay: Nestled between Stowe Village and the slopes lies Topnotch Resort , an upscale haven with dining and soothing post-slope spa treatments. In Bar Harbor, finding winter lodging can be trickier, but the cozy Inn on Mount Desert stays open year-round and even has a lending library for cuddling up by the fire.

Crater Lake, Oregon, to Seattle

The Pacific Northwest is a dream road trip destination in any month, but there’s something about traversing moss-laden forests and seeing a snow-capped Mount Rainier in winter that just makes the entire experience more special. Start with a snowshoe around Oregon’s Crater Lake , then warm up on the drive along the Mount Hood Scenic Byway before stopping in Portland, Oregon . Wheel over to Olympic National Park for a moody stroll along the forested Pacific before taking in the natural beauty of Mount Rainier.

Where to stop: Though most of the Rim Drive is closed in winter, photographers will enjoy snowy Crater Lake views from Rim Village. Pick up a new or rare read for the journey at Powell’s City of Books in Portland, the largest independent bookstore in the world. Nature addicts can chase a few waterfalls at the Columbia River Gorge, then head to Rialto Beach way up on the Olympic Peninsula. Or, simply make a beeline for Seattle and play in the snow at Mount Rainier’s Paradise .

Where to eat: Voodoo Doughnuts is a Portland staple and sweet stop for a road trip snack. In Seattle, warm up with hand-cut hot soba at chef-driven Kamonegi .

Where to stay: Enjoy late-night nosh in a stunning building dating back to 1909 at Portland’s artsy-chic Hotel Lucia . It’s an ideal location for exploring the city’s notoriously quirky downtown scene. As for Seattle, keep the post-Rainier adventure vibes alive at the elegant, whimsical Kimpton Palladian .

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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!!

The 16 Best Winter Road Trips in the USA You Should Take This Year

Embarking on a winter road trip across the USA is an adventure like no other. As the chilly air sets in, the land transforms into a shiny, beautiful place covered in snow. It’s a great time to go on an exciting cross-country odyssey.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 16 best winter road trips, taking you through captivating destinations and unveiling the beauty of winter travel .

Key Takeaways

• A winter road trip from New York to Pennsylvania and driving to Georgia and South Carolina are awesome and underrated adventure ideas. 
• Maui, Hawaii, offers panoramic vistas, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, all basking in the warmth of the sun amidst the winter months.
• The best road trip ideas in December include Key Largo to Key West, Route 100, and New Orleans.
• Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, San Francisco to San Diego, and Maui, Hawaii, are some of the best winter road adventures you can experience on the West Coast. 

Best December Road Trip Ideas in the US

1. the florida keys: key largo to key west.

A must-try winter road trip is the Key Largo to Key West journey along the captivating Florida Keys. Enjoy water adventures in Key Largo, from jet skiing to scuba diving. Also, discover marine life at Robbie’s Waterfront, the Dolphin Research Center, and the Turtle Hospital. 

End your 157.2-kilometer journey in Key West, exploring Dry Tortugas National Park, savoring Key Lime Pie, and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home.

2. New York City to Pennsylvania

A winter road trip from New York City to Pennsylvania can be an exciting adventure. The distance between the two is approximately 354 kilometers, and it would take around 4 hours to drive without traffic. 

It’s a great way to visit popular stops along the way, like Liberty State Park, Penn State University, and Hershey Chocolate World.

3. Georgia and South Carolina

Ever wondered about a beautiful winter road trip through Georgia and South Carolina? Picture this: visits to charming savannas, parks like Amicalola Falls State Park, and historical spots like the Georgia Museum of Art.

The best part? Cozy beds and breakfasts at luxurious hotels are waiting. As you travel, savor tasty Southern cuisine and soak up the breathtaking scenery of the southeastern United States.

4. New Orleans

Winter in Louisiana is a perfect time for a road trip, with nippy weather that can drop to 17 degrees Celsius . Start your adventure in lively New Orleans, where a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour unveils top sites. Then, savor famous eats at Commander’s Palace, try a ghost tour for spooky tales, and enjoy the lively Palace Market at night.

You can also venture into the bayou for a rural experience and explore small towns like Houma and Thibodaux for a glimpse of everyday Louisiana life. 

5. Route 100, Vermont

Vermont’s Route 100 is a winter wonderland journey in quintessential New England. Known as “ Vermont’s Main Street ,” it winds through charming scenes—country stores, snowy forests, and white-steepled churches. 

The Green Mountains and Mad River Valley provide excellent skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and fishing at the lakes. As you explore Route 100, pause to buy maple syrup and taste Vermont cheddar cheese.

Related : Best Fall Vacations in the USA

6. Highway 101, Oregon Coast

Oregon’s Highway 101 hugs the Pacific with stunning ocean views. Winter unveils a stormy, moody scene with crashing waves on sea stacks. 

Check out roadside wonders like a drive-thru tree and quirky museums. Also, visit a cool college town called Eugene, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and Cannon Beach with the iconic Haystack Rock.

7. The Catskills and Hudson Valley, NY

Escape NYC chaos with a 69-kilometer road trip to the Hudson Valley and the Catskills. Once a refuge, it is now accessible for day or week trips.

Fall brings vibrant colors—ideal for a long weekend of hiking or apple picking in the crisp air of picturesque villages. Go ahead and check out artists’ communities, whitewater rafting, and the Borscht Belt’s history.

8. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina

Winter in the Smoky Mountains is perfect for a road trip with snowy peaks, scenic drives, and fun activities like skiing and snowshoeing. Enjoy winter festivals like Winterfest in Gatlinburg and spot wildlife like deer and elk. You can stay in cozy cabins or luxury resorts—there’s something for every budget.

9. Hocking Hills, Ohio

The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is a 26.4-mile road that links six Hocking Hills State Park sites, making it popular. Even though the drive is short, it’s awesome for a day trip with cool stops and short hikes along the way. 

Check out some must-see spots on the scenic byway, like the Rockbridge State Nature Preserve and the Cantwell Cliffs.

Related : The Best Romantic Winter Getaways for Couples

Best Winter Road Trips on the West Coast

10. salt lake city to las vegas.

Did you know a winter road trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas is about 643.74 kilometers? The adventure takes 5–5.5 hours, so it’s best to check road conditions and weather forecasts for smooth travel. 

Tour Arches National Park, Zion National Park, and the Hoover Dam along the way. Don’t forget warm clothes— temperatures can drop a lot in winter.

11. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is awesome for a winter road trip. It’s mesmerizing, with waterfalls and big mountains. In the winter, fewer people visit, so you can take your time on the trails and see everything. Just remember warm clothes, although sometimes roads close because of snow.

12. Las Vegas to Los Angeles

If you’re planning a winter road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, you will need to consider potential snow and ice along the way, so be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate gear. 

The drive is about 434.5 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours without traffic. You can either take US-93 S or I-15 S, with the latter being the shorter route. Along the way, you can stop at attractions such as the Grand Canyon and Lake Havasu City. 

13. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii, is a cool winter getaway with nice weather and beautiful views. A road trip is a fun way to explore the island, like the pretty Hana Highway, Haleakala National Park, and nice beaches in Kihei and Lahaina. 

Check out cultural spots too, like Lahaina town and the Haleakala Sunrise Tour. Pack warm clothes for cooler nights, around mid-15 degrees Celsius, and wear comfy shoes for walking around and seeing everything.

14. Zion National Park to Moab National Park, Utah

A winter road trip from Zion to Moab promises snow-capped mountains, beautiful landscapes, and winter fun. Enjoy activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

Visit the unique rock formations in Arches National Park and visit Canyonlands National Park for stunning views. Also, don’t miss the Moab Giants Monument , featuring life-size dinosaurs—an exciting attraction along the 492-kilometer drive.

15. Phoenix, Arizona, To Death Valley

Ever wondered how close Death Valley is to Phoenix? Just a three-hour drive takes you through national parks and scenic routes. Don’t miss activities at Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park—all near Death Valley.

16. Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego

The iconic Pacific Coast Highway spans around 3,218 kilometers of California’s coast. Winter drives offer cool weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. 

Experience the beauty of dark cliffs, expansive beaches, and winding coastal roads. Notable stops include Big Sur, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hearst Castle, Malibu, and Santa Monica.

Related : Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

The winter months provide a unique charm for road trips in the USA, with fewer crowds and stunning winter landscapes.

The Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego offers an extended coastal journey, showcasing the beauty of the West Coast.

Start by selecting your desired destinations, planning your route, ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready, and packing accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable road trip.

The duration depends on your chosen route, but a week-long road trip allows for a well-paced and immersive experience.

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Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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Best USA Vacations In December

We have a love-hate relationship with the cold in our home state of Kentucky. Sometimes we get fluffy snow, and sometimes it’s icy mixes that chill your bones. Inevitably, we start looking for places to get away and invigorate our spirits! The great thing about the US is that no matter if you embrace the cold or run from it- there’s somewhere for you to travel in the winter.

The US is so varied in climates from tropical to almost arctic in some places. You can go bobsledding behind a pack of caribou… then drive 15 hours and be somewhere totally different. {Preferably – somewhere where palm trees are swaying after that kind of cold?!}

We’ve put together the best USA trips for your December winter wanderings!

#1 Southern California Road Trip

Southern California stays absolutely beautiful all year and would make a perfect winter getaway this December. Temperatures are in the 60’s making it the low season for Southern California. Flights, hotels, car rentals, etc., become much cheaper making it an ideal time to visit all of these incredible national parks!!

To download and use this map offline, follow the directions here.

Sequoia National Park

You’ve probably seen it in magazines all over – but this iconic tunnel in Sequoia National Park is worth seeing! There are a ton of gorgeous hikes or scenic drives if you’re not the hiking type.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is a huge national park encompassing over 5,270 square miles. From the painted desert to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes -there’s something for everyone! (Our personal favorite would be Ridgecrest at night – more stars than you could count!)

***If you have extra time head to Las Vegas! It’s a short drive between Death Valley National Park and the Mojave Desert. GET OUR FULL GUIDE ON AN AWESOME 24-HOURS IN LAS VEGAS!

Mojave Desert

The Mojave Desert is another immense, untamed region in California worth exploring on your SoCal Road Trip! It’s withstood a long history of potential abuse – and remained an impressively unexplored wilderness. The trails we would most likely do are Rings Loop Trail and Teutonia Peak Trail . Both allow for amazing views of the desert any time of day – but especially at night with incredibly bright stars!!

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree inspired an entire U2 album, so it’s gotta be a must-see, right? {See all of our road trip playlists here!} This national park is the love child of two gorgeous landscapes: The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Mountains. After you’re done snapping your Instagram photos -make sure you hit the Arch Rock Nature Trail when you’re in the area!

If we were you- we’d choose to stay in an Airstream to fully embrace that earthy desert vibe Joshua Tree is famous for!

Virtually Explore Joshua Tree National Park Here

San Diego is the best city winter destination in California because it’s the most southern. There are so many gorgeous beaches in the area that you can still enjoy even in the winter! Our bucket list San Diego Beaches would be Coronado, La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach, and Dog Beach.

Fun Fact: The Mexican border is only 15 miles from San Diego! If you get a wild hair and wanted to go outside the US- you could drive down to Tijuana and be there in less than an hour!! Visit this article for more information on how to get to Tijuana!

#2 St. John, US Virgin Island

For a true tropical getaway that you don’t need a passport to access- head to St.John’s US Virgin Island this December. There are over a dozen beaches and all of them boast crystal clear water, powdery sand, and in the high 70’s during the day. That’s literally the perfect beach weather and completely past hurricane season!

Getting to St.John is also a breeze. A non-stop flight from Miami to St.John is a little over 2 and a half hours. {You’re basically one nice nap away from your dream December tropical getaway!)

If you’re part of the human population that thrives in cold weather – head to Alaska for a perfect winter getaway. Booking your trip to Alaska during December’s sub-zero temps allows you to experience all that the arctic truly has to offer: The Northern Lights, snowmobiling, and dog sledding, along with epic views of a snowy winter wonderland.

Aurora Train – If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights – this train ride takes you through Alaska on an overnight adventure! The route is Anchorage’s Wasilla-Talkeetna-Hurricane-Flagstop Area-Healy-Nenana-Fairbanks. For weekend routes, passengers ride North on Saturdays and South on Sundays. (Nenana is most likely where you’ll see the Northern Lights!)

To Book Your Train Through Alaska – Click here . (Make sure you chose the ‘Aurora Winter Train’.)

#4 Breckenridge, Colorado

Among the things Colorado is famous for – the mountains, breweries, and hot springs make Breckenridge worth a winter road trip. Explicitly known for being a ski/snowboarding town – Breckenridge has a ton of resorts. For the best budget ski resort in the area – check out Breck Inn . For the most romantic and luxurious ski resort – check out One Ski Hill Place !

Best Breweries In The Area: After snowboarding all day – you’re going to want a pint or two to help relax those sore muscles! We highly recommend trying out a few local breweries before you head back to your lodge. Must-try breweries include Breckenridge Brewery and Broken Compass Brewing!

As an added bonus to help you relax – Colorado also has a ton of natural hot springs. The closest one is Hot Sulphur Springs and would make an awesome day trip when you just can’t ski anymore!!

#5 Crystal River, Florida

Crystal River is a tropical oasis tucked away near the Florida Everglades. Most people come for the experience of visiting Three Sisters Springs to swim with the manatees! The water is warmer here {around 72 degrees} in the winter, so the manatees migrate here from December to March.

Normally we’re not a fan of this kind of intrusion into the natural mating/migration spaces and patterns of wild animals – but this is a time when conservationists have done an incredible job. By allowing people to snorkel/kayak with the manatees – there’s a rare opportunity to bring awareness to a great cause!

We’ve also been paddleboarding in Florida with manatees in a different region near Orlando? They were such sweet and curious animals! The nervousness of being in such close proximity to an animal that large quickly dissipated.

• Random ADD Thought: When I – Shelbs- was in third grade there was a required book we all had to read about a boy growing up in the tangerine groves in Florida. It was so impactful and overall good! Purchase Tangerine here on Amazon.

What Else To Do In The Area: Since you’re in Florida and it’s the winter – you might as well go to the beach! Some amazing beaches nearby include Caladesi, Honeymoon Island State Park, Clearwater Beach, and St.Pete. We highly recommend staying at the Plantation on Crystal River ! It’s beautiful and the area is known for having great food!

#6 Arizona Road Trip

Arizona is stunning – and not just for the Havasupai Waterfalls that float around Instagram! A truly great road trip in December through Arizona will take you through the Grand Canyon, Coconino National Forest, Pheonix, and a few incredible natural hot springs. Skirting 60 degrees in Pheonix – this road trip would be a perfect getaway in December!

Grand Canyon

We went in the cold season! Since there isn’t much vegetation – you won’t miss out on seeing anything you wouldn’t see any time of the year. The air might have been even clearer than in the heat, to be honest? Our views were impeccable!

Coconino National Forest

One of the coolest and most unexpected things we experienced in Arizona was the Coconino National Forest. These regions are full of lava fields that border the San Francisco Volcano Fields. Totally unexpected to see these rock formations and get to see the Lava Tunnels !

Phoenix’s December weather is gorgeous and makes for a perfect time to do a little outdoor exploring. (Especially since temps can reach 130 degrees Farenhight in the summer! It’s a lot more inviting in the ‘winter’!) Here are a few things to do in Pheonix in the winter:

• Visit the Las Noches De Las Luminarias At The Desert Botanical Garden
• Explore Arizona’s Ancient Native American Ruins & Modern Day Culture
• Lights of the World Lantern Festival with cultures from all over the world represented!

Arizona Hot Springs

There are a ton of natural hot springs in Arizona and you’ll be able to find them in the most remote regions! There are 3 main hot springs we would add to this trip:

• El Dorado Hot Springs in Tonopah
• Castle Hot Springs in Pheonix
• Pumpkin Spring in Grand Canyon!

P.S. Since you’ll be close to Vegas, consider adding a day or two to explore all of the fun things to do in Las Vegas including the technicolor Neon Museum !

Best Places To Travel In The US In December

No matter where you go – anything to lift your spirits during the dreary winter months is a good idea!!

We’ve found the best December destinations in the US to be: Southern California, Arizona, Breckenridge – Colorado, Crystal River- Florida, Alaska, and St. John – US Virgin Islands. Whatever you pick – start planning early and make sure to get away when you need to.

Need a little more inspiration to plan your travels for the rest of the year?

• Best Places to Travel in February: USA & Beyond
• The Best Road Trips to Take In July
• Where To Cool Off In August
• Best Places To Catch Fall Foliage in September

Pin for later when you’re starting to plan your trip!

Make sure to subscribe to our blog , snag all of your road trip basics (below), get your travel insurance , and have fun jamming to a new playlist !

Until next time friends,

Thanks for sharing!

Evan and Shelby

Sharing beautiful places, sustainable & slow living tips, + good food from across the globe. You can probably find Shelbs creating a new playlist or editing photos, and Ev researching the latest and greatest in all manner of travel gear and tech. We're so happy you're here taking a moment to read and slow down a little.

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These look like fantastic places to visit in the states in December! I would love to visit a couple of these.

A great list of places to go. It can be hard to know where to visit in December!

Great post! I wish I could visit some of these destinations soon. They all look fantastic 🙂

These are some fun ideas! I’m hoping to go to Alaska next winter 🙂

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A Full Guide to Visiting The Glenwood Hot Springs

An epic road trip to bishop castle, colorado.

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 offers a multitude of activities 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, especially during the winter months of this month, January and February . 

• 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

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We can book your trip hopping around the USA’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

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.

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. None of these things are under the radar, but it’s New York , so go for it! Both November and this month are truly magical! 

Of course, if you 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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• 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

15 Best Places to Travel in December (USA)

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: November 25, 2023

For many of us the month of December is filled with cold temperatures and the anticipation of the holiday season. Instead of feeling stuck at home, think of how fun it would be to escape on a winter vacation getaway.

The US has such diverse places to visit that you’ll definitely find the December destination that’s right for you.

This list of 15 best places to travel in December will help you plan your trip. Places like the Florida Keys and Maui are the tropical paradise you need to melt away the winter blues.

While if you’re a snowbum, consider heading to Alaska where winter sports are at the top of the to-do list. Or you can head to New York City where the holiday season is in full swing.

To get started, begin here by exploring the top places in the US to travel in December . 

1.   Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are one of the warmest places to travel in December .

With daily highs typically in the mid-70s, it’s perfect weather to be on the water. In the water, it’s even better as the water temps usually hover in the upper 70s.

A major plus is that hurricane season is over. Hooray!

December is the perfect month to do everything outdoorsy in the Florida Keys.

You can stroll along Duval Street in Key West , go on a snorkeling or scuba diving tour, or ride in a glass bottom boat.

For a fun and adventurous outing take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park – you can only get there by boat or sea plane!

2.   Maui Hawaii

*** While Lahaina is recovering from devastating wildfires of August 2023 visitors should stay away from the area but the remainder of West Maui, Southern and Eastern Maui regions are open for tourism. Check Maui Travel Updates for more info ***

Maui is absolutely the perfect destination in December.

The weather is pleasant in the low 70s normally but can reach into the low 80s some days.

The water temperatures are even better, staying in the upper 70s which is perfect for any water sports.

December is prime whale watching season.

To get a glimpse, take a whale watching tour on the water or hike the Lahaina Pali Trail to see them from ashore and the gorgeous views.

Where to stay in Maui? Check out the Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateau for the perfect (adults only) location overlooking Maui’s southern coastline.

3.   Joshua Tree National Park (California)

December is a great time to visit Joshua Tree National Park .

With temperatures normally hitting a high of about 60, it’s perfect for hiking the park.

Remember to dress in layers as it’s chilly at the start of the day, but you’ll definitely warm up as you get your blood pumping on the trails under the sun.

In December, Joshua Tree typically sees fewer visitors than other times of the year, which is nice. You can even visit on Christmas Day!

4.   Miami Florida

If you’re looking to melt away the December chill then definitely head to Miami – one of the warmest spots in the US in December.

This city is all about fun in the sun. With temps in the 70s spending time at the beach is a definite must-do.

The mild December weather means you’ll be able to do so much in the city without getting overheated.

Outdoor activities like seeing Wynwood Walls , exploring the Design District , or strolling through Little Havana should all be on your to-do list.

At nighttime you can head to the clubs in Miami Beach and dance until the early morning hours.

5.   Alaska

Although most folks plan a trip to Alaska during the summer months, don’t count out a visit in December.

Alaska comes alive with the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in December.

So, there’s no need to head to Finland or Iceland, as you can see this natural wonder right here in the US.

From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and dog sledding, Alaska is totally one of the best wintery places to visit in December.

6.   Catalina Island California

Catalina Island is the perfect getaway in the winter.

You may not be ready to jump into the beautiful clear blue water, but you can still have fun exploring the island.

Take a ride on the Undersea Expedition to get an up close look at the sea life without getting wet.

Rent a golf cart and drive up into the hills to see the island a bit more. You’ll have an incredible view of the island and the sea from up there.

7.   New York City

December in New York City is just like in all of the movies.

During the holiday season the streets are bustling with energy, color, and holiday cheer.

That’s why New York City is definitely one of the best places to travel in December.

On a trip to the city you must see the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and go ice skating in Central Park .

Remember to check out the holiday window displays along Fifth Ave and see a Broadway Show.

8.   Orlando Florida

Orlando is one of the warmest places to travel in December.

It boasts daily highs of about 75 degrees and low humidity, making a visit to Orlando just lovely.

What draws a lot of visitors to Orlando in December are the holiday celebrations.

And if you’re longing to get your feet in the sand there are several beaches near Orlando you can easily visit for an afternoon.

Home to many of the world-famous theme parks, Orlando really gets into the holiday spirit.

There’s Seaworld’s Christmas Celebration , and Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays among others.

And hey, there are tons of fun things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks .

9.   Death Valley National Park (California / Nevada)

Note: Death Valley National Park closed in August after Tropical Storm Hillary caused widespread damage, Death Valley partially reopened on Sunday October 15, 2023 but many roads are still closed check the NPS website for updates .

For the hottest place on the planet, December is hands-down the best time to visit.

Daily December temps normally get up to the mid-60s, so it’s just right to get out and explore this gorgeous national park.

It can sometimes rain in December but annual rainfall for Death Valley is only 2.2 inches total. Just make sure to keep an eye on the forecast so you don’t have any issues.

It’s always a good idea to check the official National Park website for alerts, maps, and more info before your trip.

Also remember that in the desert the temps drop down at night, typically into the 30s in December. When you’re packing for your trip you’ll want to bring layers of clothing to suit the changing temps.

10.   San Diego California

With average highs in the mid-60s, San Diego is just lovely in December.

Although you won’t be wanting to jump in the water, don’t count San Diego out.

The sun and temps in December mean you can spend the day outdoors and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

You can spend a day exploring Balboa Park , see the seals in LaJolla Cove , or go kayaking.

It’s also possible to enjoy the beach in December without getting wet.

11.   Destin Florida

A trip to the Emerald Coast is just what you need in the dead of winter.

Temperatures are delightfully in the 60s in December.

So it may be a bit too chilly to take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico, but it doesn’t mean all water sports are off limits.

Instead consider parasailing and banana boat tours, which are a perfect activity in December. 

12.   Zion National Park (Utah)

You’ll find fewer crowds at Zion National Park in the winter making it one of the best places to travel in December.

Cooler winter temps get up to the upper 40s in Zion. So you could catch a glimpse of snow covering higher elevations in the park.

A major plus is that you can drive your own car through Zion Canyon in December – Something you can’t do during peak season.

13.   St. Augustine Florida

There’s no better time to visit the country’s oldest city than in December.

With temps in the upper 60s, St. Augustine is totally one of the best sunny places to travel in December.

There’s so much to do in the city from exploring the sights and sounds of old town to taking a stroll on the beach – read our full list of 50 things to do in St Augustine .

St. Augustine is buzzing with holiday spirit in December.

The Nights of Lights decorating the Bridge of Lions throughout the historic district will put you in the holiday mood.

And you still get to enjoy beautiful beach walks , looking for shells, or why not try your luck fishing on the pier?

14.   Palm Springs California

A trip to Palm Springs in December means you can spend the day enjoying the outdoors in the sun.

Temperatures in the 70s makes any activity outside delightful.

There’s tons to do, like going for a hike in Joshua Tree National Park or heading to the golf course.

No matter what you do, you’ll have a great day in this desert oasis.

If the sun hasn’t melted away all of the winter chill, a relaxing dip in one of the hot springs should do the trick. Read our list of the Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs and find your next vaca spot!

15.   Oahu Hawaii

Oahu in December is seriously the best.

The weather is just about perfect during this time of year with air temps reaching the upper 70s and 80s and water temps keep steady around 78 degrees.

These temps definitely make Oahu one of the warmest places to visit in December.

Surfers flock to Oahu in December to catch the perfect wave and compete in the Vans Triple Crown surfing competition.

Final Thoughts Best Places to Visit in December

As you can see there are so many wonderful places to travel in December. You could be ice fishing in Alaska or soaking up the sun on the beach in Miami. No matter where you go, chances are you’ll have a great time.

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Option 1: Drive from Dallas to New York City, spending Christmas in NY ideally. Then fly to LA from NYC, spend a few days at Disney before flying out. I've been to LA a few times, so don't need to spend much time there other than to get the Disney fix. Any stops on the way to Dallas to NYC that would be a must-see would be very welcome. We do have a bit of time to spend.

Option 2: Drive from Dallas to Grand Canyon (and surrounds), and then down to LA (possibly via Death Valley/Joshua Tree?). Again, grateful for any ideas for stops etc as we do have a couple of weeks.

The final alternative is to instead fly into San Fran, in which case we would probably spend some time there and then fly to Seattle, before road tripping back to LA.

As a bit of insight into us, we are both foodies, love a nice meal with a good drink, and also love coffee. We would love to see some of the amazing national parks that the USA has to offer, with a few (relatively easy) day hikes.

Appreciate this is a lot of info, but am very grateful to hear any and all ideas :)

11 replies to this topic

The option 2 road trip is good for December (winter) weather.

I drove from Dallas to SF in December years ago.

Big Bend NP is wonderful in winter. You could take I-10.

Thr issue is winter weather over much of the country then.

You might think Grand Canyon is in the south but it’s at 7,500 feet which brings it winter weather. Vegas and Phoenix are at lower elevations so they tend to be a lot warmer. They are under 2,500 feet in elevation.

It’s a good time to visit

Big bend np

Carlsbad caverns np

Guadeloupe np

White sands np

Chiricahua nat monument

Organ pipe nm

Sonora desert nm

Death Valley np

Joshua tree np

Florida will also have good weather so Everglades and dry tortious national parks are worth visiting as is thr protected waters along the keys.

We did something vaguely similar to option 1 this past December/January - only in reverse.

DC to Florence

Florence to Savannah

Savannah to St Augustine

St Augustine to Panama City Beach

PCB to New Orleans

New Orleans to Houston

Houston to Dallas

We were lucky to have no issues with the weather other than fog in PCB.

Our favourite food spots were in New Orleans, Savannah and Boston.

Happy planning !!

I've actually a different idea, and thought for you.

Given you say you fancy spending Christmas in New York city:

Then early Dec fly to LA. Do what you want to do there and then drive to Dallas, reaching there just before Christmas. Fly from Dallas to New York city for your city and Christmas fix there. Then fly back to Dallas for the return flight home. It's just that flights between Dallas and New York city are shorter (and may be cheaper) and fewer time zones crossed so you arrive in NYC up and running.

I think RachelRay's trip ideas were spot on for the time of year.

Beware flying during the holidays has been beyond stressful the last few years.

Good points, CV. None of us can predict bad weather and what impact that might have on travel at a time demand can be high.

Which does mean, if the return flight is between Christmas and New Year, any time spent in NYC or somewhere else that gets a more severe winter than either Dallas or LA, there could be issues. And that's possibly why flight prices are reasonable right now, of course.

Decisions, decisions .....

I’d stick to the desert SW and incorporate Big Bend NP as you head west across southern NM and AZ. Include a visit to Bisbee and Tombstone. Then Joshua Tree NP ending up on the beaches of southern CA in the San Diego area.

Are you named after Tash Sultana? She’s a favorite. Seeing her this summer.

https://www.nps.gov/bibe/index.htm

https://www.discoverbisbee.com/

Maybe a non-starter, but what if you limited yourselves to the west coast, possibly starting with a high-speed blitz west from Texas to LA, assuming you're locked into flying to Dallas.

Then head to LA and exchange the one-way car for a different one, in order to save major money on one-way surcharges, and spend the rest of the time in California. Map - https://goo.gl/maps/6aKXiZ3aXgfR7NHv8

Christmas in LA is under-appreciated IMO; there are parades on Hollywood Boulevard, a terrific Mexican "Posadas" celebration that lasts for 9 or 10 days in the old Pueblo in downtown LA (along Olvera Street), boat parades (all lit up with Christmas lights) in Long Beach... the whole southern California area can be a blast at that time of year, and the weather is usually terrific. If you want to keep road tripping, the desert is close by, or down to San Diego, or up the coast to Santa Barbara, or even to Monterey and Big Sur. See the elephant seal rookery near the marvelous Hearst Castle on California Hwy 1. Or head to Vegas for a very surreal Christmas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3RqafZM9lM

In any event, that would position you well for your flight home, and you'd be guaranteed that snowy or ice-covered roads wouldn't be a problem, which they could well be almost everywhere else.

Anyway, just a thought.

What did you guys end up doing?! Currently trying to plan my trip from Dallas to NY and back

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150 usa trips in december 2024.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Tour Radar made the booking process easy. Great variety of tours available. I would use this service again.

• Cultural Photography

Magnificent West - 7 Days

Excellent trip. There was a lot of driving but it was worth it. We had excellent guides with information that wasn't listed on the website. There was a lot of driving but many stops to break that up. I have been on a number of tours in America and Europe and found the hotels on this tour to much nicer than in the past. The tours of Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon were nothing less than SPECTACULAR. The guides on the bus and at the sites were more than knowledgeable. The bus was top of the line. I have already spread the name of this company to friends and family. Next year I will be looking for my next trip with this company. Judy Lockie, Ontario, Canada.

Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Excellent trip small group tour, great hotels and guide.

• In-depth Cultural

USA - The Golden Experience

Wild West – 5 days

Excellent! Very enjoyable and highly recommended!

USA - The Western Deserts

We have chosen the tour specifically because it was in German and also in other languages shown. Also on our voucher was again confirmed the tour with professional, German-speaking tour guide. Unfortunately, the tour guides did not speak German. We were able to help ourselves a bit with the translation app but we also missed a lot of information. We are very disappointed about this and expect compensation. The tour guides have tried and were very nice also the tour was very nice.

Hawaiian Discovery (11 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• Food & Culinary

Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans

National Parks Winter Tour

Well organised and informative

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Las Vegas, Sedona & Monument Valley – 5 days

We really enjoyed this tour. The days on the bus are long as the distances travelled are vast but the places we saw made it all worth it. The coach was very comfortable, the tour was well organised and our guide Lorenzo & bus driver, Ozzie, kept us informed (about where we were going, an history of the places and what to expect next) and entertained throughout. The hotel accommodation was perfect for our needs. Definitely a tour worth doing. Family of four (including 2 teens)

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

Death Valley Day Tour from Las Vegas- Small Groups Tour

This trip (on the 20th of March) was absolutely amazing: from booking and picking up from hotel, tour itself of course and bring me back to the hotel. Our guide was very polite, friendly, knowledgeable and a very good driver. ***** Thank you so much! I recommend this tour and this tour agency!

California Express - 3 Days

the tour was very well organized, the tour guides were great!

Magnificent West – 8 days

Ich fande die Reise sehr schön. Hierbei kann man in wenigen Tagen sehr viele Orte an der Westküste sehen und bekommt dazu auch noch interessante Information von den meistens hochmotiviert und gut ausgebildeten Tourguides. Es standen jedoch Orte in Prospekten, die nicht besucht wurden, wie der Zion Park. Auf meiner Reise hatte ich drei verschiedene Tourguides zwei davon waren sehr freundlich und haben sehr viel erzählt. Einer davon war sichtlich genervt von seiner Arbeit. Seine einzige Sorge war das Trinkgeld. Was er mehrmals erwähnte. Gesamt lässt sich die Reise aber empfehlen.

What people love about USA Tours in December

Just couldn’t have been better. Extremely professional guides Robin and Sarah were highly knowledgable, friendly and organised. Accomodation was excellent in every location (most hotels even had hot tubs and pools!) and the food options were always good. Lovely comfortable Mercedes minibus. Highly recommended to everyone - would do another tour with South West Adventure Tours in a heartbeat.

Excellent trip. There was a lot of driving but it was worth it. We had excellent guides with information that wasn't listed on the website. There was a lot of driving but many stops to break that up. I have been on a number of tours in America and Europe and found the hotels on this tour to much nicer than in the past. The tours of Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon were nothing less than SPECTACULAR. The guides on the bus and at the sites were more than knowledgeable. The bus was top of the line. I have already spread the name of this company to friends and family. Next year I will be looking for my next trip with this company. Judy Lockie, Ontario, Canada.

Guide was knowledgeable and helpful. It was a good group

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19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

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Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

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Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Nationals tackle Dodgers as long road trip continues

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Gio Urshela's two-out single knocked in the go-ahead run in the eighth and the host Detroit Tigers defeated the Texas Rangers 4-2 on Tuesday afternoon.

The Miami Marlins are 3-14 and off to the worst 17-game start in franchise history.

Intent on getting his season on track, Washington Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin will visit familiar surroundings on Tuesday night.

It took one-tenth of the season, but the Seattle Mariners finally showed what they're capable of doing offensively Monday night.

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U.S. court sides with transgender school athlete against West Virginia ban

A federal appeals court on Tuesday ruled that a transgender middle-school girl in West Virginia can compete in her school's girls' track and cross-country teams, blocking enforcement of a state law against her.

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Music Teacher Is Charged With Taking Teenagers on Trips to Abuse Them

Paul Geer taught for decades at the Family Foundation School, a rural reform academy where he abused students, an indictment states.

By Michael Wilson

The music teacher’s classes at the strict, no-nonsense reform school in the woods of upstate New York would seem to be a teenager’s respite amid all the rules, a place for expression and discovery.

But a criminal indictment unsealed Thursday portrayed that teacher as a domineering and abusive tyrant who, during one-on-one trips away from school and outside the state, raped his teenage students or forced them into sexual activity.

The indictment follows years of lawsuits that have portrayed the Family Foundation School , a small boarding academy in rural Delaware County, as something closer to an unsupervised, violent prison.

The teacher, Paul Geer, 56, was arrested Wednesday evening in Hancock, N.Y., where he lives a short distance from the site of the school, which closed in 2014. He was charged with six counts related to bringing three different children across state lines to engage in unlawful sexual activity.

Mr. Geer pleaded not guilty at an arraignment before a federal magistrate judge in Syracuse, N.Y., on Thursday, and was denied release pending a detention hearing set for Monday.

For former students at the school, his arrest vindicated many years of online campaigns and legal battles involving that place and, specifically, that man.

Liz Boysick, 41, identified as “Victim 2” in the indictment, was 16 when Mr. Geer drove her to Pennsylvania ahead of a class trip there and forced her to perform oral sex in his van, she said. Decades later, she was in court to see Mr. Geer in shackles during the hearing.

“It was really powerful hearing what mattered to me counts,” she said afterward. “He will not get one more tear out of me. Now is the time for me to live my life.”

Mr. Geer was in his 20s and living with his parents when an older couple approached him at a choral recital he was leading and offered him a job at the Family School, as it is known, on the spot. They were Tony and Betty Argiros, who founded the school in the 1980s.

For Mr. Geer, that began a career of more than 20 years at the school, which billed itself as a last resort for parents frustrated and distraught by their children’s drug or alcohol abuse or behavioral issues. Former students have said he asked personal questions about their sex lives and singled out children to stay behind with him after class, which was held in a red barn beside a pond.

The indictment described Mr. Geer as a bully who, in addition to subjecting students to “repeated sexual abuse,” forced them to eat moldy food, haul heavy loads of rocks around the campus and endure communication blackouts for long periods.

On three separate occasions outlined in the indictment, Mr. Geer drove students out of state on one-on-one trips and coerced them into sexual activity. The victims were two boys and a girl, ages 14 to 17.

Mike Milia, 45, of Brooklyn, is identified as “Victim 1” in the indictment. He was 14 in 1994 when Mr. Geer took him on a fishing trip to Maine and sexually abused him, according to the indictment.

On the way back to Hancock, Mr. Geer “told him not to tell anyone of what had just happened,” according to a lawsuit filed by Mr. Milia in 2019. That case is pending.

Mr. Geer was questioned about taking a minor to Maine in a deposition that same year.

“In hindsight, I shouldn’t have done that,” he said, but he denied any sexual abuse.

“I think I behaved badly in a lot of ways,” Mr. Geer said in the deposition, referring to his time working at the school. “I definitely was very aggressive.”

The couple that founded the school later retired, and their son, Emmanuel Argiros, who goes by Michael, took over day-to-day operations before it closed. In depositions in 2018 and 2021, the younger Mr. Argiros denied hearing reports of abuse while at the school.

In 2018, The New York Times published an article describing a series of suicides and fatal overdoses by former students. More former students later came forward to describe horrific conditions at the school.

Liz Ianelli is a former student who recounted her time at the school and described the abuses inflicted on her there in her 2023 book, “I See You, Survivor.” She recalled being wrapped from neck to ankle in a blanket that was duct-taped closed, and left on the floor of an empty room, shimmying toward a bowl of tuna for food.

She was among the former students who hastily arranged travel to Syracuse on Thursday for the court hearing.

Sitting nearby was Mr. Milia, watching the man who had taken him to Maine 30 years ago.

“This guy threatened my life when I was 14 years old,” Mr. Milia said after the hearing. “When he walked through that door, it was the first time I felt like he couldn’t hurt me anymore. I am not scared anymore.”

Michael Wilson , who covers New York City, has been a Times reporter for more than two decades. More about Michael Wilson

The inflation fight has stalled and the first rate cut won't happen until December, Bank of America says

• Bank of America pushed back its forecast for the first rate cut of 2024 from June to December. 
• The bank adjusted its call following the hotter-than-expected March inflation report. 
• The re-acceleration of inflation means markets should expect just a single 25 basis-point cut this year. 

The recent string of unexpectedly high inflation readings has led Bank of America to push back its forecast for the first rate-cut of 2024 from June to December.

BofA's US economics team wrote in a note on Thursday that they don't feel policymakers will be confident enough by June to begin loosening monetary policy, though they maintained their expectations for four cuts in 2025 and two in 2026.

"The acceleration of inflation this year makes a cut prior to December challenging, in our view," analysts led by Michael Gapen write, citing the first quarter core CPI inflation , which rose to 4.5% annually from 3.3% in late 2023. Meanwhile, expectations for inflation in the near term remain high. 

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"We think this rationale also rules out cuts that start in July or September. We just don't see enough progress on inflation and its components by then. Moreover, unfavorable base effects mean year-over-year core PCE inflation will probably not decline further between the June and September meetings," the note said. 

The bank said that by December, while the year-on-year rate of core PCE inflation is expected to be 2.8%, sequential growth rates in shelter inflation are likely to show more convincing signs of cooling, and inflation expectations are likely to start steadily declining by that point. 

"As a result, the Fed could find reason to begin easing rates in December. This would mean one-25bp rate cut this year, instead of our previous forecast of 75bp in rate cuts," analysts added. 

A number of banks adjusted their forecasts for rates following the release of March CPI. Goldman Sachs slashed its outlook from three to two cuts, while RBC said just one is in the cards.

On Wednesday, Larry Summers, the former US Treasury Secretary, said there are rising odds that the Fed's next rate move is upward after inflation came in hot for the third month running. 

Watch: What Happens If The US Hits The Debt Ceiling And Defaults

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