us travel destinations in december

18 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

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

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

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

2. Miami, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions in Charleston, SC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

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

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

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

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

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

More on Hawaii

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!!

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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3. Durango, Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

• Average temperatures – 5 to -10 degrees

4. Waikiki, Hawaii

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

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

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

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

• The average temperature – 28 degrees

5. New York

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

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

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

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

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

• Average temperature – 7 degrees

6. Siesta Key, Florida

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

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

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

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

• Average temperature – 23 degrees

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

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

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

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

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

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

• The average temperature – 12 degrees

8. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

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

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

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

• The average temperature – 11 degrees

9. Aspen, Colorado

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

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

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

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

• The average temperature  – 2 to -12 degrees

10. Crystal Beach, Texas

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

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

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

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

• The average temperature – 18 degrees

11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

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

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

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

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

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

• The average temperature  – 10 degrees

12. Vermont

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

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

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

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

• Average temperature  – 3.5 degrees

13. Solvang, California

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

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

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

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

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

• Average temperature – 20 degrees

14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

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

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

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

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

• Average temperature  – 5 degrees

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

12/01/2023 by Ashley Yap 1 Comment

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Joshua Tree National Park, California

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

Read Next: What to Do in Joshua Tree National Park

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

2. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada

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

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

3. Mendocino County, California

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

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

4. Truckee, California

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

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

5. Sun Valley, Idaho

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

6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

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

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

7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

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

8. San Juan County, Utah

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

9. Moab, Utah

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

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

Find out what else to do in Moab here.

10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

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

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

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

11. Sedona, Arizona

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

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

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

12. Bisti Badlands Wilderness, New Mexico

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

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

13. Taos, New Mexico

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

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

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

14. Albuquerque, New Mexico

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

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

15. Big Bend National Park, Texas

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

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

16. Fredericksburg, Texas

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

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

17. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

18. Florida Keys Road Trip

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

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

19. St. Augustine, Florida

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

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

20. Savannah, Georgia

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

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

21. Charleston, South Carolina

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

22. Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

23. Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

24. Hocking Hills, Ohio

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

25. Chicago, Illinois

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

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

26. New York, New York

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

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

27. Acadia National Park, Maine

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

Off the Mainland

28. maui, hawai’i.

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

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

29. Vieques, Puerto Rico

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

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

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

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09/20/2023 at 2:03 am

All places are perfect

The 13 Best Places to Visit in the US in December (2023)

December is a magical time of year in the United States, and there’s really no better way to cap off the year than by hitting the road! Whether you’re looking to escape the cold at a tropical beach or embrace the snow on an epic ski trip, there are tons of incredible places to visit in the US in December.

Of course, holiday travel is huge this month. If you want to relish the festive season, you’ll find endless holiday cheer and special events in cities big and small. But if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and costs that come with a Christmas vacation , you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, too. 

Travel earlier in the month, and you’ll have the chance to explore the country’s best (and most popular) national parks and cities minus the crowds. Plus, in the lead-up to the holidays, you’ll find that many cities in the US host free concerts, festive markets, and holiday parades, while restaurants often serve up special menus and holiday treats all month long. 

With so many wonderful places to visit in December, it might be tough to decide where to go! So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best places to visit in the US in December for you. Plan the ultimate December getaway and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 13 Best Places to Visit in the US in December

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 13 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

1. new orleans, louisiana.

From noshing on beignets at Café du Monde to marveling at 18th-century buildings in the French Quarter, The Big Easy is a prime destination to visit year-round. But did you know it’s one of the best US cities to visit in December?

Book a trip to New Orleans in December, and you’ll find all sorts of festive and fun special events happening all month long. Plus, the city is all dressed up in twinkling lights and holiday displays, creating a truly magical atmosphere!

Starting at the beginning of the month, you can expect restaurants to mix up festive craft cocktails and serve up special menus, including traditional Reveillon dinners (a late-night multi-course holiday meal). Be sure to also attend one of the free classical and jazz concerts courtesy of the St. Louis Cathedral Concert Series and check out the spectacular light displays at the iconic Celebration in the Oaks and LUNA Fête . 

Then there’s the Krewe of Jingle Christmas Parade, the boozy Running of the Santas pub crawl, and the Holiday Home Tour , which gives you a peek into the beautiful private homes in the Garden District. From thrilling college football games to festive cruises on the Mississippi, there’s tons going on in New Orleans in December!

2. Zion National Park

If you’ve visited Zion National Park during the peak months (April through October), you know that the crowds can be overwhelming. After all, this is one of the most popular national parks in the United States!

But visit Zion in December, and you’ll be rewarded with near-empty hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and iconic attractions. Brave the chilly temps, and you’ll quickly see why Zion National Park is one of the best places to visit in the US in December. 

Plus, winter is the only time of year that you can cruise along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive in your own car (aside from certain days, including the time between Christmas and New Year’s). The road is closed to private vehicles from March to November, so being able to travel at your own pace and stop whenever you want is a huge benefit of visiting in winter.

Another perk of visiting Zion in December is that your chances of snagging a coveted permit to hike Angels Landing or The Subway are much better compared to peak season months. But beware of Angels Landing if it’s icy, those dropoffs are no joke!

Of course, December is the coldest month of the year to visit Zion, with an average low of 30°F and high of 50°F. But bundle up, and you’re in for the trip of a lifetime. If you have extra time make sure you visit nearby Bryce Canyon National Park – another fabulous place in Southern Utah for a white Christmas !

3. Lake Placid

If you’re looking for epic winter destinations perfect for a year-end trip, Lake Placid is easily one of the best vacation spots in the US in December. Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains, this quaint New York town is a mecca for adventure junkies, especially in the winter months.

Lake Placid has been a top winter destination since the early 1900s, and it even played host to the Winter Olympics back in 1932 and again in 1980. Fast-forward to today, and you can experience Lake Placid’s Olympic past at the Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Complex, Mt. Van Hoevenberg, and Whiteface Mountain.

Take advantage of the powder-fresh snow, and hit the slopes of Whiteface Mountain , one of the top ski resorts in the country. If you prefer something a bit more mellow, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Mount Van Hoevenberg and beyond. 

If you’re in town just to relax, that’s fine too. You’ll find all sorts of lovely lodges and pampering spas all around town, perfect for a carefree winter weekend away!

4. Leavenworth, Washington

Tucked away in Washington ‘s Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is famous for its authentic Bavarian Village lined with alpine-style buildings and German restaurants. There are plenty of reasons to visit Leavenworth year-round, but if you’re looking for magical Christmas destinations, this Washington hamlet is easily one of the best places to travel in the US in December!

Leavenworth is widely hailed as one of the best Christmas towns in the US, so expect plenty of twinkling lights and holiday cheer all month long thanks to the annual Village of Lights Christmastown event. 

During this month-long event, you’ll have the chance to participate in all sorts of fun activities – from marveling at the half a million lights that adorn the town and taking photos with Santa to listening to carolers and snacking on all of the festive German treats. 

If that’s not enough, you can spend your days checking out all of the nutcrackers at the quirky  Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum , enjoying mulled wine and spiced nuts at downtown’s restaurants, going sledding through the middle of town, visiting the  Leavenworth Reindeer Farm  – the list goes on and on.

To add to the magical atmosphere, December is a prime time to see this picture-perfect town blanketed in snow!

5. Key West, Florida

Located at the southwestern tip of the Florida Keys, Key West is easily one of the best warm places in the United States to visit in December. The average daytime temperature hovers around 76°F, making this one of the warmest wintertime destinations in the country! 

That being said, the colder-than-usual ocean temperatures and mild rainfall might be off-putting to some. But if you visit Key West with an open mind, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, you may very well have perfect tropical weather during your entire trip. 

Key West is stunning year-round, and you can easily while away the days snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, soaking up the sun from a pristine beach, or lounging around your hotel pool. But December also offers all sorts of festive activities and events, too, creating a fun and unique juxtaposition to the tropical surroundings.

During the holidays, the entire island, including Duval Street, is decked out in aquatic-themed holiday decorations, making it even more charming than usual. If you’re in town in December, be sure to take the Holly Jolly Holiday Trolley to check out Key West’s best light displays. 

Then there’s the Key West Holiday Parade the first week of December, the Lighted Boat Parade in mid-December, and the iconic New Year’s Eve Conch Shell Drop, to name a few fun events!

6. Williamsburg, Virginia

If you’re looking for the best US cities to visit in December, Williamsburg, Virginia , offers all sorts of unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony from 1699 to 1780 and is famous for its role in the American Revolution. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this place!

Visit any time of year, and you’ll have the chance to explore the 301-acre Colonial Williamsburg living museum, which features costumed characters re-enacting scenes from daily 18th- and 19th-century life. From dining at George Washington’s favorite tavern to shopping for gifts in the 18th-century-style Merchant Square, there’s always something fun to do in Williamsburg!

But visit in December, and you’ll find tons of seasonal events happening around town. If you want to shop till you drop, don’t miss out on Yorktown’s Christmas Market on Main, the Bizarre Bazaar at the nearby Richmond Raceway Complex, or all of the excellent deals at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. 

Then there’s ice skating at the Liberty Ice Pavilion in the middle of Colonial Williamsburg, the festive treats at Yorktown Mistletoe Market and Toyland Parade, the spectacular “Grand Illumination” events in Colonial Williamsburg, and so much more. 

7. Joshua Tree National Park

Anyone who has ever visited Joshua Tree in the summer knows the heat can be downright brutal (think 100°F and beyond). Visit in the spring or fall, and you’ll have huge crowds to contend with. But travel to Joshua Tree in December, and you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds and ideal weather for hiking. 

That being said, things do get really busy over the holidays. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we suggest visiting toward the beginning of December.

This is the California desert, after all, which means you can expect the temperature to hover around  60°F during the day and 40°F during the evenings. Rain and snow are always a slim possibility in December, so pack accordingly. 

One of the most unique things about traveling to Joshua Tree in the winter is that the days are shorter, which means you’ll have ample opportunity to stargaze in this Dark Sky Park. But when you’re not marveling at the star-speckled sky, you’ll have a blast hiking to Joshua Tree’s most famous rock formations, checking out the Cholla Cactus Garden, watching the sunset from Keys View, and so much more!

8. Savannah, Georgia

There really is no city quite like Savannah, Georgia . Famous for its picture-perfect Historic District and beautiful cobblestone squares, this Southern city just oozes charm. But visit in December, and you’ll find that the entire town is decked out in twinkling lights, red ribbons, and holiday cheer. 

This is one of the best Southern US cities to visit in December if you want to escape the frigid temperatures found in most US destinations this time of year. Head to Savannah, and you’ll experience highs in the upper 60s to low 70s and lows in the 40s. You might need gloves and a light jacket in the evenings, but that’s about it!

Weather aside, there are all sorts of fun things to do in Savannah at this time of year. You’ll want to meander around the Historic District to check out all of the 19th-century mansions all dressed up in over-the-top Christmas decor before going shopping for gifts in the historic City Market and sampling holiday treats at the quaint shops.

From tree lighting ceremonies and holiday home tours to holiday-themed performances and spectacular light shows, Savannah knows how to get into the holiday spirit!

9. Maui, Hawaii

It’s no surprise that Hawaii is one of the best warm places to visit in December – if not the very best place! But if you can’t decide which island to visit, consider a wintertime trip to Maui .

Of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui gets the least amount of rain during the winter months, so you’re pretty much guaranteed excellent weather and 75°F days. Plus, the swimming conditions are also excellent, so you can spend your days soaking in the sun on the beach before dipping in the Pacific Ocean.

The winter months are also a prime time to spot humpback whales in the wild. Roughly 12,000 humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii during the winter, meaning Maui is a prime spot for whale watching.  

Aside from spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, you can spend your trip hiking in Haleakala National Park , touring a pineapple or coconut farm, snorkeling off the coast of Lana’i, and marveling at spectacular waterfalls along the Road to Hana .

With its perfect December weather and all of its iconic natural attractions, a December trip does come with a higher-than-usual price tag. But chances are you’ll find it’s money well spent!

Book a Dolphin Sailing Adventure

10. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio , Texas , is another one of the best US cities to visit in December. With mild temperatures hovering around the high 60s and low 70s, you can leave your winter coat at home. You’ll love exploring the city’s top sights, including the Alamo, the UNESCO World Heritage sites along Mission Trail, and the bustling 2.5-mile River Walk without enduring the scorching summer temperatures.

Plus, during the entire month of December, the River Walk is decorated with 100,000 lights and visited by over 150 caroling groups. To really soak in the magical atmosphere, it’s well worth booking a river cruise if you’re visiting in December. 

Explore further afield, and you’ll find that local attractions like the Natural Bridge Caverns also get into the festive spirit, featuring everything from a Christmas tree to an ice skating rink. Head to the popular Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld, where you’ll find thrilling rides and attractions and fun holiday-themed events happening all month long!

Plus, this is a prime time to dine on San Antonio’s incredible Mexican food. Tamales are traditionally prepared for the holidays around these parts, so be sure to try some of the city’s best at places like Delia’s , Teka Molino , and Lala’s Gorditas .

11. Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting the Grand Canyon in December is a great idea if you want to avoid the hordes of tourists and are willing to brave the chilly temperatures and unpredictable weather. The park sees only 15% of the number of tourists during the winter months compared to the rest of the year, so expect quiet trails and sparsely populated overlooks along the South Rim!

The rims of the Grand Canyon can be very cold, but the inside of the canyon is actually protected from the brutal winds, meaning you can hike at relatively mild temperatures in the 50s! You’ll also have a much easier time obtaining permits at this time of year, which is another huge perk of visiting in December. 

The Grand Canyon is stunning at any time of year, but add a dusting of snow, and the landscape becomes even more magical!

It’s important to note that the North Rim is closed from early November to mid-May, and road closures are common, which means you likely won’t be able to access all the attractions on your bucket list. Check in at the visitors center to get up-to-date info on road and trail closures.

Winter storms and blizzards are also a very real possibility, so it’s always best to give yourself an extra couple of days to make sure you don’t miss out on everything you want to see and do! 

12. Newport, Rhode Island

When it comes to the best places to visit in the US in December, it doesn’t get much better than Newport, Rhode Island . While this coastal city is best known as a sun-soaked summer destination for East Coasters, visit in December, and you’ll be treated to a winter wonderland. And if you’re lucky, you might get to see the city’s buildings and beaches blanketed in snow!

You can spend your days ticking off all of Newport’s most famous attractions. From the historic lighthouses and lavish Gilded Age mansions to the scenic Cliff Walk and the bustling Newport Harbor, you’ll find tons of fun things to do in Newport at any time of year.

But December sees this place decked out in holiday charm, and you’ll find unique events happening all month long thanks to the annual “Christmas in Newport” event. Throughout December, you’ll come across Christmas concerts, tree-lighting ceremonies, arts and crafts fairs, festive pop-up shops, candlelit tours of historic homes, and so much more. 

One of the most popular Newport activities in December is the Holidays at the Newport Mansions , which gives you the chance to see The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms all dressed up in Christmas décor! 

13. Lake Tahoe

If you’re wondering where to go in December for some snow-filled fun, Lake Tahoe is always a good idea. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly destination or just want to take an epic ski trip with friends, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone.

In the winter, Lake Tahoe is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders who flock to the two dozen ski resorts that are scattered around the lake. From Heavenly and Kirkwood to Sierra-at-Tahoe and Sugar Bowl , you’ll be spoiled for choice! 

There’s a reason this is one of the best vacation spots in the US in December. But if skiing isn’t really your thing, you’ll find plenty of other wintertime activities to keep you entertained.

If you want to make the most of the city’s stunning natural setting, you’ll find plenty of hiking and snowshoeing opportunities around the lake. Or, for more chilled-out activities, you can shop till you drop in Heavenly Village, take in the views from the Heavenly Gondola , or take a gamble in one of the ritzy casinos on the Nevada side of the lake!

No matter how you spend your day, cap it off with a visit to one of Tahoe’s many après-ski spots, where you can mix and mingle over drinks!

There you have it! The 13 best places to visit in the USA in December. What’s your favorite US destination to visit in December?

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

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About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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• 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

Where to travel in December in the US

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

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

Copper Mountain, CO

For the snow-obsessed.

Average temps: 29°F high; 3°F low

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

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

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

More to explore

For cold-weather superfans

Average temps: 25°F high; 11°F low

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

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

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

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

White Sands National Park, NM

For off-the-beaten-path adventurers.

Average temps: 58°F high; 29°F low

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

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

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

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

Avila Beach, CA

For laidback sightseers.

Average temps: 65°F high; 43°F low

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

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

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

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

St. Petersburg, FL

For artsy beach bums.

Average temps: 72°F high; 57°F low

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

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

Dahlonega, GA

For hallmark movie fanatics.

Average temps: 52°F high; 30°F low

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

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in December in USA

• In the City / USA

Looking for the best places to visit in December in USA? These are the places you want to visit this month.

December is a great time to travel if you love the holidays and festive destinations. Some cities are extra magical, but it also draws more crowds.

It’s also perfect for snowbirds to escape the cold or if you’re from a hotter climate, it’s a good time to explore places that are way too hot any other time of year. I’m lookin at you,  Death Valley .

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: September 25, 2023

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• Best Places to Visit in December in USA
• Festive + Winter Activities
• Warm Weather Destinations

Map of the Best Places to Visit in December in USA

• Warmest Destinations in the US
• More December Travel Destinations

What to Pack

Planning checklist, more resources.

USA IN: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

| Snow Activities + Holiday Destinations |

1. asheville, north carolina →.

36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801,  map

Weather Avg:  50° / 31° F

Asheville has a relatively mild winter, but it’s cold enough to get a feel for the holidays. You still need a winter coat, but you don’t have to worry about snow burying your car. Plus, there are plenty of festive winter activities.

Christmas at the Biltmore is iconic for those of us who lived in the South.

• TO DO:   The Biltmore ,  Blue Ridge Parkway, River Arts District
• EAT:   49 Best Places to Eat in Asheville
• STAY:   Best Places to Stay in Asheville
• EVENTS:   Christmas at Biltmore , National Gingerbread House Competition, Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum

Local Tip: If you’re exploring the outdoors, be aware of the weather. There can be ice on the roads and trails. Have  crampons  handy for  hikes nearby .

See More: 9 Things to Do at Biltmore + A Biltmore Estate Christmas

2. Las Vegas, NV →

5200 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119,  map

Weather Avg:  60° / 27° F

We love December in Las Vegas. The weather is perfect for hiking and climbing (send temps!), and the Strip  goes over the top with holiday decor. Each casino has impressive displays, but the best holiday display is at the Bellagio Conservatory.

• TO DO:   Bellagio Conservatory ,  Here Kitty Kitty ,  Cosmo Ice Rink 
• EAT:   E by Jose Andres, Mizumi, Poke Express
• STAY:   Find Las Vegas Hotel Deals
• EVENTS:  Enchant,  Holiday Lights at Ethel M , National Rodeo Finals

Local Tip: The sun sets early (around 4:30), so plan your days accordingly. Also, bring layers. Visitors don’t realize it can actually get cold, especially once the sun is down.

See More: Best December Events and Things to Do in Las Vegas

3. Anchorage, Alaska

546 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501,  map

Weather Avg:  25° / 17° F

Anchorage is one of the best places to visit in December in the US if you’re looking for a winter wonderland. You’ll find deep powder, crystal-clear ice, and you may even catch the northern lights! The skies are clear in the winter, making it perfect for flightseeing around the Chugach Mountains.

• TO DO:  Glacier Cruise, Bike the Coastal Trail, Wildlife Viewing
• EAT:   Moose’s Tooth ,  Snow City Cafe ,  Glacier Brewhouse
• STAY:   Anchorage Hotel Deals
• EVENTS:  Holiday Lights in the Garden, Anchorage International Film Festival, Anchorage Holiday Market

Pro Tip: Camera and phone batteries die quicker when it’s cold, so have  spare chargers  and batteries.

4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming →

532 N Cache St, Jackson, WY 83001,  map

Weather Avg:  28° / 7° F

Jackson Hole is another phenomenal destination for outdoor winter adventures, like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

There are also live shows, craft fairs, and a beautiful town square. It’s also a great time to go on a wildlife tour or a sleigh ride at the National Elk Refuge (opens mid-December).

• TO DO:   Things to Do in Jackson Hole in the Winter
• EAT:   Persephone Bakery ,  Hand Fire Pizza ,  Gather
• STAY:  Search Jackson Hole Hotel Map
• EVENTS:  Holiday Bazaar, Holiday Fun in Town Square,  Grand Teton Music Festival

Local Tip: Some activities are snow dependent and may not be available until mid to late December. Always double-check before booking.

See More: 11+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Winter

5. New York City, NY →

14 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10122,  map

Weather Avg:  44° / 31° F

Christmas in NYC is as quintessential as it gets. It’s everything that you would imagine from a TV Christmas with gigantic Christmas trees, holiday window displays,  ice skating rinks , and  Christmas markets . We always feel nostalgic and miss living in the city during the holidays.

• TO DO:   Christmas Markets ,  Ice Skating ,  Holiday Shows
• EAT:   99 Best Places to Eat in NYC
• STAY:   Library Hotel ,  Search More NYC Hotel s
• EVENTS:   The Rockettes ,  Christmas Markets , NYE in Times Square

Local Tip: Have fun!

See More: 11 Magical Ways to Spend Christmas in NYC

| Warm Places to Visit in December in USA |

6. death valley national park, california →.

Furnace Creek, CA 92328,  map

Weather Avg:  65° / 39° F

Death Valley is one of our  favorite national parks  because of the variety of landscapes within one park.

You can walk sand dunes, check out salt flats, or hike along colorful hills. In the summer, it’s unbearably hot, but you can comfortably spend all day outside in the winter. Just be sure to bring layers since the temperatures drop when the sun sets.

• TO DO:   Badwater Basin, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point
• EAT:   Last Kind Words Saloon ,  Happy Burro Chili & Beer ,  Smokin J’s Barbecue
• STAY:   The Best Death Valley Hotels and Rentals

Local Tip: If you plan on visiting multiple National Parks, pick up an  annual pass  to save money.

See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

7. Maui, Hawaii →

S Kihei Rd #1193, Kihei, HI 96753,  map

Weather Avg:  72° / 56° F

Maui (and all of Hawaii) is one of the best places to visit in December to escape the cold. Plus, you can enjoy the holidays with a tropical twist in shorts and a tee.

It’s also whale season, so look out for Humpback whales. Keep in mind that prices are high when families are visiting during winter break.

• TO DO:   Road to Hana , Whale Watching, Lahaina Banyan Tree
• EAT:   Mama’s Fish House ,  Coconuts Fish Cafe ,  Geste Shrimp Truck
• STAY:   Maui’s Best Hotels
• EVENTS:  Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, Made in Maui County Festival

Local Tip: December is the rainiest month in Maui but is mainly confined to the North Shore. A  packable raincoat  is handy.

See More: 19 Incredible Road to Hana Stops You Can’t Miss

8. Los Angeles, California →

3006 W 7th St #200a, Los Angeles, CA 90005,  map

Weather Avg:  68° / 49° F

Temperatures are great in LA year-round, making it one of the best places to visit in December. It can get crowded, but luckily most visitors stick to touristy spots. 

You don’t want to miss out on holiday happenings, like Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena (one of the most festive streets in LA, the LA Kings Holiday Ice Rink, or the Hollywood Christmas Parade.

• TO DO:   Ultimate LA Bucket List ,  Instagram Spots
• EAT:   49 Best Places to Eat in LA
• STAY:   Check our Los Angeles Hotels Map
• EVENTS:  Christmas Boat Parade at Newport Beach, Hollywood Christmas Parade

Local Tip: LA traffic is brutal. When planning your trip, try to explore one area or neighborhood each day rather than spending your day sitting in the car.

See More: 101 Things to Do in LA

9. Key West, Florida →

31281 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043,  map

Weather Avg:  77° / 70° F

Lighted boat parades, a naughty version of The Nutcracker, and festive historic inns are just a few of the unique things to do in Key West in December. Besides that, you get to enjoy the beautiful weather in town or explore the water.

• TO DO:   Best Things to Do in Key West
• EAT:   Blue Heaven ,  Santiago’s Bodega
• STAY:   Look for the Best Key West Hotels Here
• EVENTS:  Key West Holiday Fest, Key West City Hometown Holiday Parade

Local Tip: Parking can be troublesome, so look for a central place to stay and consider renting bikes to get around.

See More: 7+ Remarkable Things to Do in Key West Florida

10. New Orleans, Louisiana →

339 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130,  map

Weather Avg:  65° / 46° F

New Orleans does the holidays their own way, with Christmas Eve Bonfires along the Mississippi River and Lena Fete turning Lafayette Square into a holiday wonderland. Sports fans can enjoy the Allstate Sugar Bowl and R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl.

• TO DO:   101 Things to Do in New Orleans
• EATt:   49 Best Places to Eat in New Orleans
• STAY:   New Orleans Hotel Deals
• EVENTS:  Krewe of Jingle,  Allstate Sugar Bowl

Local Tip: Food lovers should check out the  Reveillon Dinners,  where multiple restaurants throughout the city offer specially crafted prix-fixe menus and cocktails.

See More: How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in New Orleans

11. Palm Springs, California →

2901 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262,  map

Weather Avg:  70° / 44° F

Imagine holiday decor with a Palm Springs vibe. It’s a recipe for a good time. You can enjoy Christmas movie nights and even see Santa arriving via helicopter. If you visit the Cabazon Dinosaurs, Mr. Rex is dressed up in a Santa suit too!

• TO DO:   15 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs
• EAT:   Farm ,  Trio ,  The Tropicale
• STAY:   Search for Palm Springs Hotels
• EVENTS:  Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Wildlights at the Living Desert, Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade

See More: 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Palm Springs

12. San Diego, California →

996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101,  map

Weather Avg:  66° / 49° F

San Diego is still one of our favorite cities in the US to live in. During the holidays, the most popular attractions light up for the holidays. Explore Balboa Park, the San Diego Bay, Legoland, San Diego Zoo, and more with a Christmas twist. You can even ice skate on the beach at the Coronado Hotel.

• TO DO:   San Diego Bucket List ,  Best Photo Spots
• EAT:   Carnitas Snack Shack ,  Hammond’s Ice Cream ,  Steamy Piggy
• STAY:   Search Our San Diego Hotels Map
• EVENTS:   San Diego Bay Parade of Lights,   San Diego Underground Film Festival

Local Tip: Bring layers since the weather can get chilly, especially near the beach.

See More: 25 Free Things to Do in San Diego

13. Sarasota, Florida →

1945 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34236,  map

Weather Avg:  74° / 53° F

Sarasota is known for its museums, art, and shopping, but we got to see a different side of Sarasota when we visited.  

The weather is perfect for both urban and outdoor adventures. In addition to that, you get the holiday events with illuminated gardens, festivals of trees, and gingerbread competitions. 

• TO DO:   Best Things to Do in Sarasota
• EAT:   Owens Fish Camp ,  Dry Dock Waterfront Grill ,  Duval’s Fresh Local Seafood
• STAY:   The Best Sarasota Hotels
• EVENTS:  Annual Gingerbread Festival, Christmas Walk in Historic Downtown Venice

See More: 7 Fun Things to Do in Sarasota Florida

14. Savannah, Georgia

301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401,  map

Weather Avg:  64° / 45° F

Winter is quieter in Savannah, making it a great time to visit to avoid crowds. Christmas along the river is beautiful with plenty of decor and events. Take a riverboat cruise or tour historic homes when it’s extra magical during the holidays. 

• TO DO:  Riverboat Cruise, Davenport House Museum, Ice Skating at the Savannah Civic Center
• EAT:   Treylor Park ,  The Ordinary Pub ,  The Olde Pink House
• STAY:   The Best Savannah Hotels
• EVENTS:  Savannah Bridge Run, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, December Nights & Holiday Lights

Local Tip: Weather can be unpredictable, going from hot to cold, so pack layers.

See More: 15 Best Romantic Getaways in USA

15. St Petersburg, Florida

8200 Bryan Dairy Rd STE 200, Largo, FL 33777,  map

Weather Avg:  72° / 57° F

On our last Florida visit, we heard so many good things about St Pete. It’s known as the Sunshine City, so get in your beach time this December.

For the holidays, they turn some parks into a winter wonderland where you can go tubing, and they have drive-in holiday movies.

• TO DO:  Florida Botanical Gardens, The Dali Museum, Fort De Soto Beach
• EAT:   The Library ,  The Mill Restaurant ,  Bacon Bitch
• STAY:   Find St Petersburg Hotels
• EVENTS:  Holiday Lights at Downtown Waterfront parks,  Snowfest

Warmest Destinations is the US

The warmest states in the winter: Hawaii, Florida, California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, and Louisiana.

The warmest cities based on average highs are:

• 83°F – Kailua Kona, Hawaii Big Island || Lahaina, Maui
• 82°F – Kahului, Maui || Everglades National Park, Florida
• 81°F – Honolulu, Oahu
• 79°F – Hilo, Hawaii Big Island
• 76°F – Miami, Florida
• 72°F –  Orlando, Florida
• 71°F – South Padre Island, Texas
• 70°F – Daytona Beach, Florida || Anaheim, California
• 69°F –  Palm Springs, California  || Yuma, Arizona ||  Big Bend National Park, Texas
• 68°F –  Los Angeles, California  || Corpus Christi, Texas

More December Vacations in US

Here are more destinations recommended by at least two or more travel blogs or sites. What do you think? Do they deserve to be at the top of the list? 

• Beaufort SC
• Beaver Creek CO
• Big Bend NP TX
• Breckenridge CO
• Bryce Canyon NP UT
• Charleston SC
• Crystal River FL 
• Galveston Island TX
• Lake Tahoe CA
• Leavenworth WA
• Minneapolis MN
• Mt Rainier NP WA
• Nashville TN
• Orlando FL  – Disney gets decked out but is crazy busy during the holidays. Go early December.
• Park City UT
• Rocky Mountains NP CO
• San Antonio TX
• Sandpoint ID
• Sanibel Island FL
• Santa Fe NM
• Salt Lake City UT
• South Padre Island TX
• St Augustine FL
• St Louis MO
• Sun Valley ID
• Washington DC
• Yellowstone NP WY
• Water Bottle (our favorite bottles tested on the road)
• Portable Charger

For Cold Weather Destinations:

• Rechargeable Hand Warmer
• Insulated and Waterproof Shoes
• 3-in-1 Parka
• Heavyweight Socks

For Warm Weather Destinations:

• Water Shoes

Want to know  what to wear to the airport ? These are  our ideal airport outfits  and  our carry on essentials for every flight .

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• USA Travel Guide
• Rand McNally Road Atlas
• 50 Best Road Trips in the USA
• Scenic Highways and Byways in the US
• National Parks Travel Guide
• Annual National Park Pass

Is there anything we missed on our list of best places to visit in December in USA?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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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.

Save it to Pinterest!

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11 Best Places to Travel in December

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

rusm/Getty Images

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

Lake Tahoe, California

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

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

Palm Springs, California

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

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

Charleston, South Carolina

ChristopherPillitz/In Pictures via Getty Images Images

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

Newport Beach, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

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

Branson, Missouri

tomofbluesprings/Getty Images

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

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Nikada/Getty Images

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

Riviera Maya, Mexico

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

Vienna, Austria

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

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

Fort Worth, Texas

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

U.S. Virgin Islands

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

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

shalamov/Getty Images

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

O. Christine

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places To Vacation In December In The USA

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

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

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

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

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

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

2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

3. Solvang, California

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

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

4. Holland, Michigan

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

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

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

5. NYC, New York

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

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

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

6. Kauai, Hawaii

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

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

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

7. Breckenridge, Colorado

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

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

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

8. Puerto Rico

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

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

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

Best Places To visit In December Around The World

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

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

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

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

10. Cambodia

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

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

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

11. Argentina

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

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

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

12. Uruguay

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

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

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

13. Germany

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

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

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

14. Barbados

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

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

Best Place To Vacation In December

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

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

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The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

By Caitlin Morton

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

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

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

Miami, Florida

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

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

Yellowstone National Park

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

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

The Azores, Portugal

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

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

Salzburg, Austria

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

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

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

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

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

Switzerland

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

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

Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

Whistler, Canada

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

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

Santiago, Chile

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

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

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

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

British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California 

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

Martinique 

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire . 

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India 

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink? 

Black Forest, Germany 

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein  (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct. 

Puerto Rico 

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia  can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost. 

Vancouver Island, Canada 

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold. 

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of  Where to Go When . 

This article was first published September 2019 and updated October 2023

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Environmentally Friendly Vacations In The US That Are Totally Sustainable

Posted: December 13, 2023 | Last updated: December 13, 2023

Sustainable breaks

Farm-to-table food at Chatwal Lodge, New York

If you’re after eco-luxury and willing to splash out a bit, look no further than the hotly-anticipated Chatwal Lodge. Situated in 2,500 acres of pristine wilderness in Bethel, around 95 miles north of Manhattan, the resort is built in harmony with its stunning location. Its main restaurant, the Timber Lounge, serves up farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on hyper-seasonal and foraged produce. Plus, there are countless ways to engage with nature, from kayaking on the Toronto Reservoir to stargazing, birdwatching and hiking on local trails. 

World-leading plant conservation at New York Botanical Gardens

As the largest botanical garden in any US city, New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) allows visitors to discover a wealth of plant species while working towards their conservation. As well as being breathtakingly beautiful and endlessly fascinating, the historic greenhouse and gardens are also working hard to run as sustainably as possible. To that end, there are modernized, energy-efficient lighting, electric vehicles, composting restrooms, stormwater management systems and other measures to keep its carbon footprint as low as possible.

Energy efficiency at ARIA Resort & Casino Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas might not be the first place you think of when it comes to sustainability, but one hotel is looking to change that. ARIA Resort & Casino has not one but six Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certificates and has been awarded platinum by Tripadvisor’s Green Leaders program. It’s at the forefront of energy-efficient design, with measures resulting in a 30% energy reduction across the resort, including a state-of-the-art heat and power plant that captures excess heat to use for hot water. And it’s utterly luxurious to stay in, with spacious rooms offering breathtaking views of the city’s twinkly lights. 

Mangrove protection at Key West Eco Tours, Florida

The otherworldly emerald waters of Key West’s mangrove islands can be explored in a variety of ways. But whether you choose stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking, keep things green by booking with Key West Eco Tours. A family-run provider with a passion for preserving the local ecosystem, the company gets all guests to participate in a five-minute clean-up during their visit, while it also runs several clean-up days throughout the year and hires marine science students at Florida Keys College to help create its unique tours. 

Carbon offsetting and energy efficiency at Virgin Hotels Chicago, Illinois

Frequently listed as one of the greenest hotels in the US, Virgin Hotels’ Chicago resort has earned plenty of eco brownie points. It has energy-saving features throughout, including smart thermostats, water-efficient toilets and well-insulated walls. Guests can also pay a small extra fee to offset any further carbon emissions from their stay. What’s more, with its convenient location in the heart of downtown Chicago, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Windy City. 

Support for indigenous communities through whitewater rafting, various states

Thrill-seekers need look no further than ROW Adventures for a fun (and sustainable) way to get their adrenalin fix. The company offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing and other watersports along some of America’s most breathtaking waterways, including Idaho’s Salmon River, Oregon’s Hells Canyon and Montana’s Clark Fork River. As well as recognizing, and raising awareness of, the indigenous communities whose land it uses, it also supports the conservation of these areas through a number of initiatives. 

Solar electric and water at Proximity Hotel, North Carolina

The first hotel in America to gain a prestigious LEED platinum certification – a step up from gold – Proximity Hotel, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, certainly has impressive sustainability credentials. Its roof is covered in 100 solar panels which generate electricity and provide hot water, while the hotel’s energy-saving measures mean it uses 33% less water and 39.2% less energy compared to similar luxury hotels. It’s a joy to visit, too, with spacious loft-style rooms decorated with custom artworks, while in the vibrant restaurant you can enjoy farm-to-fork cuisine and choose from 75 different wines. 

Geothermal tech and rainwater recycling at Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania

Nature by name and nature by, er, nature, this stunning eco lodge sits in the heart of Bald Eagle State Park in Pennsylvania, overlooking a tranquil 1,700-acre lake. The hotel has just 16 rooms in total but each is an oasis of calm, offering lakefront views, sweeping balconies and natural-wood furnishings. It’s heated and cooled by geothermal technology, while a rainwater recycling system is used to flush toilets and recycled metal, glass and wood are used throughout. These adaptations, along with other energy-saving measures, have allowed it to achieve a 30% water use reduction and a 14% decrease in energy costs.

America’s Farm-to-Fork capital in Sacramento, California

It may have been declared the nation’s Farm-to-Fork capital since 2012, but Sacramento’s history of serving up uber-local produce goes back further than that. With some 1.5 million acres of farmland around the city, chefs and residents here have relied on local farmers’ bounties for generations. To get the full experience, head to the Farm-to-Fork Festival (pictured), which takes place each September. Attracting 100,000 visitors each year, the event is a full-blown celebration of sustainable, local farming, with a range of street food, regional wine and craft beer stalls, as well as cooking demos and live concerts.

‘Slow food’ and plastic-free rules at the Palms Hotel & Spa, Florida

To keep its stunning beachfront location as pristine as possible, Miami’s The Palms Hotel & Spa doesn’t use any single-use plastic. Instead, there are reusable takeout containers and paper straws at food and drink outlets, as well as refillable toiletry containers in rooms. At the hotel restaurant you’ll find dishes created with a ‘slow food’ ethos, which means sourcing local, seasonal ingredients where possible (some vegetables are even grown in an on-site garden). Meanwhile, the decor takes inspiration from its oceanside setting: think natural furnishings, fresh tropical flowers and sumptuous white bedding.

Biodynamic wine at Oregon’s wineries

As the region which is responsible for more than half of America’s biodynamic wine output, Oregon is leading the way in this eco-friendly method of producing wine. What does biodynamic mean exactly? Essentially, it’s a process that views the farm or vineyard as a whole organism and aims to create a self-sustaining system, doing away with chemical pesticides and fertilizers in favor of time-honored natural practices. There are lots of fantastic vineyards to choose from, but Maysara Winery, Beaux Frères and Brick House are all worth a visit. 

Impressive energy savings at The Allison Inn & Spa, Oregon

It’s hard not to be wowed by The Allison Inn & Spa. Perched on a verdant slope in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, the hotel’s well-positioned terrace, spa and restaurant allow guests to soak in the views (and sunshine, if you’re lucky). This LEED gold-certified hotel has more than just good looks to offer, though, with efficient measures achieving 50% energy savings across the board compared to similar resorts. Among other things, these actions include solar hot water and electric systems, LED lighting and eco-friendly cleaning and laundry practices.

Climate-conscious design and history at Hotel Andaluz, New Mexico

Not only is Albuquerque's Hotel Andaluz ultra-sustainable, it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and dates back to 1939. The LEED gold-certified resort saves on energy thanks to an award-winning motion-sensitive system, which detects when guests are in the room and adjusts light and heat accordingly. As for the energy it does use, 70% is from renewable sources. Throughout the rooms,1940s Hollywood-style decor provides a nod to its past, with plenty of gilded surfaces, antique wooden furniture and copper bathtubs. 

Off-grid energy at Earthship Rentals, New Mexico

If you’re after something a little quirky for your next break, look no further than Earthship Rentals. Situated in the heart of New Mexico’s desert, around 20 minutes from Taos, there are a number of different ‘earthships’ to suit various travel styles and budgets. According to its website, the ultra-eco accommodation is designed in such a way that it heats and cools itself without the need for fossil fuels, while each structure has its very own renewable power plant to provide light and electricity. Despite being completely off-grid, they feature all the mod-cons you could need, including Wi-Fi, TVs and washing machines. 

Epic vegan food in Portland, Oregon

In Portland, which regularly ranks as one of the best cities for vegans in the world, skipping meat and dairy doesn’t feel like a sacrifice at all. In fact, with so many vegan restaurants and food outlets, the only sacrifice is that you can’t possibly visit them all in a single trip. We’d recommend making a beeline for Plant Based Papi, which serves up meat-free comfort food and Cultured Kindness, a fully vegan cheese shop. Meanwhile if it’s sweet treats you’re after, Voodoo Doughnut is an unmissable Portland institution.

Off-grid and solar power at Nurture Through Nature, Maine

Looking to completely reconnect with nature? Consider booking a lodge or cabin at Nurture Through Nature, an off-grid, solar-powered retreat which makes the most of its incredible location within western Maine’s lakes and mountains region. To go completely back to basics, opt for a yurt, in which you’ll have no electricity but rely on olive oil lamps and solar lanterns for light and use a wood stove for warmth. For a (slightly) more luxurious option, the lodges and cabins are equipped with electricity and Wi-Fi as well as plusher furnishings. The real selling point here though is the tranquil woodland, which is the perfect backdrop for hiking and watersports, or taking part in the retreat’s yoga and meditation classes. 

Eco-friendly wineries on the Green Wine Trail, California

Thankfully, being climate-conscious doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the finer things in life. In California’s Napa Valley, almost a quarter of the county’s 500 wineries have the Napa Green certification, which recognizes them for sustainable growing and production methods, so you can sip away safe in the knowledge you’re doing the planet some good. Highlights in the Green Wine Trail include Ehlers Estate (pictured), a 100% organic vineyard in St Helena; Spottswoode, a female-led operation which uses biodynamic farming methods; and CADE Winery, the state’s first LEED gold-certified winery built from 98% recycled materials. Now the only thing left to decide is: red, white or rosé?

A sanctuary for wild horses in Hot Springs, South Dakota

Longstanding environmentalist and conservationist Dayton Hyde is the man behind the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. In 1988, he bought an 11,000 acre patch of land near Hot Springs, South Dakota and turned it into a sanctuary for rare and endangered wild mustangs which couldn’t be adopted. His legacy has endured to this day. Not only does the seemingly-endless patch of prairie support 350 horses, it’s also home to unspoiled natural landscapes, native plants and wildlife, as well as providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about conservation.

Grizzly bear conservation in West Yellowstone, Montana

Many people head to Yellowstone National Park for its amazing scenery, and rightly so. But if you’re eager to go off the beaten track and learn about how we can protect the region’s beautiful wildlife, make a beeline for West Yellowstone’s Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center (GWDC). At this not-for-profit sanctuary, visitors get to see bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and other animals which, for various reasons, are unable to survive in the world. As well as protecting these stunning creatures, the park provides a wealth of resources so guests can learn about the dangers they face.

World-leading sustainable wineries in Sonoma County, California

Even the most die-hard eco-warriors would be impressed by the vineyard-studded region of Sonoma County, California, where 99% of wineries are certified sustainable by a third-party organization. The area, which is on a mission to become the greenest wine-growing region in the world, is made up of small, family-run farms which focus on reducing emissions and preserving planet-friendly growing techniques. There are around 1,800 to choose from, but Donum Estate, Gundlach Bundschu, Hamel Family Wines and Scribe Winery are said to be the best of the best. 

Under-the-radar national parks easing overtourism

Perhaps one of the easiest – and most rewarding – ways to travel sustainably in the US is just by visiting a less popular national park. As well as avoiding the crowds associated with big hitters like the Great Smokies and Yellowstone, you’ll get to see epic landscapes and unique wildlife which far fewer people have experienced. Among the least visited are Washington’s North Cascades (pictured), Michigan’s Isle Royale, Florida’s Dry Tortugas, South Carolina’s Congaree and Alaska’s Kobuk Valley, Lake Clark and Katmai. 

Food with minimal carbon footprint at the Chicago Green City Market, Illinois

The food at Chicago Green City Market travels on average 65 miles to get there, which is just 5% of the distance traveled by produce in the average grocery store. The food market is also the first in the country to ensure all its stall holders are recognized by third-party sustainability organizations, including USDA Certified Organic, Animal Welfare Approved and Certified Naturally Grown. So if strolling through farmers' markets at the weekend is your thing, this incredible place alone might be enough reason to book a city break to Chicago.

A one-acre city farm at New York’s Javits Center

Those visiting the Big Apple shouldn’t miss a trip to the Javits Center’s seven-acre green roof – the second-largest of its kind in the country. As well as serving as a working urban farm which grows 40,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables, the rooftop is also home to a solar farm – the largest in New York City with more than 3,000 panels. Last but not least, it serves as a crucial habitat for bees, bats and birds.

Solar-powered luxury at Spirit wilderness retreat, Utah

One of the hottest debuts in the world of sustainable travel in 2023, Spirit will be a stunning luxury eco resort in Utah’s Zion National Park. Created by Nomadic Resorts, it will comprise 36 individual suites and four homesteads, whose unique leaf-shaped rooftops will be covered in 3.2kWh of solar panels and photovoltaic fabric to generate energy. Other planet-friendly features include an aquaponic greenhouse, where guests can check out a range of plant life, plus electric bikes for traveling around on. 

Next, check out the most eco-friendly hotels in the world

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The 13 summer trips Americans are searching for the most, according to Google Flights

• Google Flights revealed the top searched destinations on its platform for summer 2024.
• The data is based on the most searched travel destinations from US users between June and August.
• Neither New York nor Paris took the top spot.

If you're looking to get away this summer, you may find inspiration from Google Flights' list of the top searched destinations for the summer of 2024.

The list is based on US users' most searched destinations on Google Flights for travel between June 1 and August 31.

The list remained largely consistent from 2023, but Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year. The insights also revealed that searches about travel itineraries and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January 2024.

Here are the top 13 destinations.

13. Barcelona

There's a long list of tourist attractions in Barcelona including renowned museums featuring Picasso and Joan Miró, exploring the Gothic Quarter's architecture. Barcelona is also well known for its iconic nightlife.

Miami is known for its clear beaches and vibrant culture. It's also rated second in US News and World Report's "10 Best Party Cities " in the US.

The travel destination is also a popular site for families, and made the third spot in Google searches for top places to do things with kids, according to Google trend insights from for January 14 to March 14.

11. Los Angeles

Located in Southern California, LA is known for its beaches, Hollywood glamour, Mediterranean climate, and wellness culture. The city has a number of tourist sites, including the iconic Hollywood sign, Universal Studios, and the Getty Center.

If you plan to visit LA, make sure you factor in the cost of transportation — and the time you may spend in traffic .

Athens is rich in history and has a number of tourist attractions. BI has previously suggested visiting the Athens National Garden National Garden, the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium, Areopagus Hill, and Mount Lycabettus.

Seattle , often referred to as the Emerald City, is home to major companies like Amazon, Starbucks, and Tableau. Surrounded by water, mountains, and forest, it's also known for classic attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and its grunge music scene.

8. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant gambling scene and luxurious hotels . It was also ranked the number one city to party as of August 2023, according to US News and World Report.

It's not just a hot spot for bachelor parties though — according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14, it was the number one location people searched in the US for places to go as a couple.

Orlando was the first ranked location for searches that led with the prompt "things to do" with kids, according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14. The Florida destination is filled with family-friendly tourist attractions , like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Cancún is a popular vacation destination known for its Caribbean waters, luxurious all-inclusive resorts , and vibrant nightlife. That, and it's often budget-friendly for the experience you're getting.

Cancún moved down from second to sixth place in Google Flights' 2024 destination list. The popular vacation spot was also listed in the top five locations for couples and families searching to get away, according to Google search insights from January 14 to March 14.

5. New York

New York City, also known as the Big Apple or the city that never sleeps, has a seemingly endless list of tourist attractions. It has iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty; world-renowned museums; a vibrant theatre scene; eclectic nightlife; and some of the world's best restaurants.

New York has something for everyone — but it's expensive. Prepare to spend more on everyday items if you visit New York City.

Rome is filled with rich history and architecture that makes it an easy site for tourists to occupy themselves. Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Colosseum are a few of the most popular spots.

If you do visit Rome, make sure you avoid common tourist mistakes and tip the servers.

Tokyo rose from eighth place to third in the last year, according to Google Flights.

The city in Japan has a convenient public transportation system and is relatively affordable. It also includes culturally rich sites like Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and Sensō-ji Temple .

Paris is known for its authentic culture, charming architecture, and buttery croissants.

If you visit Paris, you'll want to visit some of the famous tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles. That, and you may want to brush up on your French too.

London maintained its spot as the number one searched tourist destination for summer travel. While living in London can be expensive and cloudy, the city is lively and vibrant during the summer.

Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the thriving theatre scene are just a few of the activities this city has to offer.

• Main content

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

Paris, Puerto Rico and more made the top 20!

For anyone feeling a sudden urge for summer wanderlust, Google unveiled its top 20 destinations that travelers have already taken an interest in for any upcoming warm weather getaways.

From domestic to international locations, Google shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with "Good Morning America" to help people start planning summer vacation spots or shape an ideal itinerary.

Much like snubs and surprises during awards season, there are a couple of places that fell out of favor since last year as well as some new additions that made this year's list.

Check out all the spots below.

Top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights

The search engine technology company said the list reflects people in the U.S. searching on Google Flights for travel anytime between June 1 through August 31, 2024.

Cancun, which previously came in at number one during summer, dropped to number six, while Tokyo is on the rise, with Madrid and San Juan new to the summer location lineup.

1. London 2. Paris 3. Tokyo 4. Rome 5. New York 6. Cancun 7. Orlando 8. Las Vegas 9. Seattle 10. Athens 11. Los Angeles 12. Miami 13. Barcelona 14. Dublin 15. Fort Lauderdale 16. Honolulu 17. Denver 18. Madrid 19. Boston 20. San Juan

The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three.

Newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year.

Travel trends on Google search

Google gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from U.S. users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer.

Searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January.

Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys.

The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa, the famed California wine country, and Key West, home to the southernmost point in the Continental U.S. with historic landmarks.

Finally, La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing, and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared with 2023 and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking for a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years in part because schools, especially in the South, are finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

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This summer also will be a good time to travel internationally; Hopper data shows fares to most destinations abroad are down compared with last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain mostly flat compared with the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 a night; better deals are available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan, and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices rise this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t increased much since last year and average $42 a day, according to Hopper.

The report shows most travelers rent a car for about four days, and warm-weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].