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Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

We'll never forget the first time we visited New York City in December. We'd seen it in movies, but standing there, seeing the Rockefeller Center tree all lit up for the first time, with skaters below and festive music in the air… it was pure magic.

But December travel isn't just about snow and Santa. We've also spent the holidays escaping to the warmth, trading snow boots for flip-flops.

We've been to almost all 50 states and spent a lot of winters trying to find the most fun destinations and best weather. We've done so many road trips in the USA and flown almost everywhere, trying to find the best places to either escape the snow or enjoy the winter. You would think we are obsessed.

If you're looking for the perfect winter getaway, you have a clear choice: either lean into the winter magic or escape it completely. Are you dreaming of a warm-weather escape with sunshine and sand, or a storybook Christmas town that looks like a real-life snow globe?

We've put together this list of our favorite places to visit in December, whether you're looking for a festive city, a snowy mountain, or a sunny beach. We'll help you find the perfect spot.

Quick List:

Here is a quick look at some of the best places for a December getaway in the USA, from festive winter wonderlands to sunny escapes:

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

Why Travel to the USA in December?

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

Best Warm Places to Visit in December in the USA

If you’re anything like us, sometimes the best gift in December is a break from the cold. Trust us, we know after living in Toronto, Canada. Those winters are brutal. These are our favourite spots to find sunshine and warm weather, where you can trade your winter coat for a light jacket or even a swimsuit.

1. Key West, Florida

We love the laid-back, quirky vibe of Key West, and it’s even more special in December. We have a great memory of biking around the island, seeing the historic inns draped in holiday lights, and then ending the day at Mallory Square for the sunset celebration. It’s a perfect escape from the cold.Why Visit in December: This is the perfect time to visit. The summer humidity is gone, the weather is sunny and warm (often in the high 70s), and the risk of hurricanes is very low. The whole island is in a festive spirit, with unique events like the “Bight Before Christmas” boat parade.Top Things to Do:
  • Watch the “Bight Before Christmas” lighted boat parade.
  • Take a ride on the Conch Train to see the historic homes decorated for the holidays.
  • Visit the Southernmost Point in the continental US for a classic photo op.
  • Go on a sunset sail to enjoy the view from the water.
Where to Stay: We recommend finding a guesthouse or inn in the historic Old Town to be close to the action.

2. Maui, Hawaii

We once went to a holiday luau in Ka’anapali, and it’s an experience we’ll never forget. You’re eating kalua pork and sipping a mai tai, watching a beautiful hula performance… and then Santa Claus arrives on an outrigger canoe. It was the perfect, uniquely Hawaiian way to get into the festive spirit.Why Visit in December: You get tropical weather, festive holiday luaus, and it’s the official start of the humpback whale watching season. Be aware that this is a popular time, especially around Christmas, so prices can be high and you’ll need to book in advance.Top Things to Do:
  • Go on a whale watching tour to see the humpbacks arrive for the season.
  • Attend a festive Christmas luau, where Santa sometimes arrives in a red canoe.
  • Browse the holiday markets at Whalers Village in Ka’anapali.
  • Drive the Road to Hana to see the waterfalls, which are often fuller in the winter.
Where to Stay: Look to the resorts in Wailea or Ka’anapali for a classic Maui experience.
We'll always remember snorkeling the underwater trail at Trunk Bay in St. John. The water was so calm and clear, and seeing all the colourful fish felt a world away from the snow back home. That's the magic of a Caribbean trip in December, and the USVI makes it so easy for American travelers.Why Visit in December: It's the start of the dry season, with fantastic weather and warm, clear water. You get a full-on tropical, warm-weather Christmas experience, all without needing a passport.Top Things to Do:• Snorkel the famous underwater trail at Trunk Bay, St. John.• Relax on the world-famous white sands of Magens Bay in St. Thomas.• Explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins in St. John.• Enjoy the unique “Christmas Second Day” (Crucian Christmas Festival) celebrations, a local tradition.Where to Stay: You can choose from large resorts in St. Thomas or more eco-friendly villas and lodges in St. John.We were not prepared for how magical St. Augustine is in December. We took one of the Old Town trolley tours at night, and seeing the entire historic city, from the old Spanish architecture to the palm trees, draped in millions of white lights… it was breathtaking. It's a holiday light display unlike any other.Why Visit in December: The famous “Nights of Lights” festival. The entire city is illuminated, and the mild Florida weather is perfect for walking around and enjoying the atmosphere. It's one of the most festive and warm places you can visit.Top Things to Do:• Take a trolley or walking tour of the “Nights of Lights” display.• Stroll through the historic streets and visit the Castillo de San Marcos.• See the city's Christmas tree in the Plaza de la Constitución.• Visit the St. Augustine Distillery for a holiday-themed tasting.Where to Stay: We recommend a historic inn or bed & breakfast in the downtown district to be within walking distance of all the lights.While Maui is our go-to for a resort escape, Honolulu is where you go for a vibrant, city-meets-beach holiday. We loved seeing the massive Santa surfing with his reindeer in the fountain at the Iolani Palace. The whole city has this amazing “Mele Kalikimaka” (Merry Christmas) spirit.Why Visit in December: It's the perfect blend of warm beach weather, world-class shopping, and festive displays. It's also a significant month for history, with the memorial events at Pearl Harbor.Top Things to Do:• See the “Honolulu City Lights” display at Honolulu Hale.• Pay respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial (especially moving around Dec 7th).• Watch professional surfers ride the massive winter waves on the North Shore.• Relax on the world-famous Waikiki Beach.Where to Stay: Waikiki has a huge range of hotels, from historic beachfront properties to modern high-rises.

If your idea of a winter getaway is to truly get away from everything, the crowds, the noise, the stress, then South Padre Island in Texas is a perfect choice. We spent a week there and our days consisted of long, quiet walks on the beach. It was a total reset and the perfect way to escape the winter blues.

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

Top things to do:

  • Go birdwatching at the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Visit Sea Turtle, Inc. to learn about their rehabilitation efforts.
  • Take a dolphin-watching cruise in the Laguna Madre.
  • Simplify enjoy the quiet, uncrowded beaches.

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

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

You get two trips in one: perfect, sunny weather for outdoor adventures like hiking during the day, and stunning, sophisticated holiday light displays at night.

Top things to do:

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

Choose from upscale resorts in Scottsdale or stylish hotels in downtown Phoenix.

Sometimes, the warm weather destinations just won’t cut it, especially if you are looking for that winter wonderland feel. So, this section is for travellers who want to dive head-first into the holiday spirit. These are the cities and towns that go all-out for December, with millions of lights, Christmas markets, and an atmosphere of pure magic.

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

It is the quintessential American Christmas destination. From the iconic tree to the world-famous window displays, the entire city is on a different level of festive.

Top things to do:

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

Midtown is convenient for seeing the main holiday sights, but we also love the West Village for its cosy, neighbourhood feel.

Leavenworth, Washington

We'd heard Leavenworth was a "Christmas Town," but we weren't prepared for the reality. We visited during the Village of Lights festival, and walking through the snow-covered Bavarian-style village while every single building was covered in over half a million lights... it's not an exaggeration. It's the closest we've ever felt to being inside a real-life snow globe.Why Visit in December: The entire town transforms into a "Hallmark movie" Christmas village. It's a full-immersion holiday experience with carolers, festive food, and incredible decorations.Top Things to Do:
  • See the "Village of Lights" (it's lit up all month).
  • Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm to get up close with reindeer.
  • Explore the Bavarian-themed shops looking for unique gifts.
  • Visit the Nutcracker Museum, which features over 7,000 nutcrackers.
Where to Stay: Book a Bavarian-style lodge or inn right in the village. You must book many months in advance for December.

Asheville, North Carolina

We love Asheville, but visiting in December is all about the Biltmore Estate. We took the candlelight evening tour, and seeing the main banquet hall with its 35-foot tree, fireplaces roaring, and carolers singing... it felt like we'd stepped back in time into a Gilded Age Christmas party.Why Visit in December: Christmas at Biltmore is one of the most iconic holiday events in the country. The city itself is a cosy mountain retreat, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are just beautiful with a dusting of snow.Top Things to Do:
  • Take the Candlelight Christmas Evening tour at the Biltmore Estate.
  • See the National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn.
  • Explore the Winter Lights display at the NC Arboretum.
  • Browse the independent shops and galleries in the River Arts District.
Where to Stay: You can stay on the Biltmore Estate for the full experience or choose a boutique hotel downtown.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

We've visited a lot of Christmas markets, but visiting the one in Bethlehem, known as "Christmas City USA", just felt right. We sipped hot cider and browsed the stalls in the old quarter, and you can feel the city's 250+ years of Christmas tradition. The whole place is lit by the glow of a giant Moravian star on the hillside.Why Visit in December: This is Christmas City USA. It was nicknamed this on Christmas Eve, 1741. It offers one of the most authentic and historic holiday experiences in the country, blending its Moravian heritage with a European-style Christkindlmarkt.Top Things to Do:
  • Browse the artisan stalls at the Christkindlmarkt, a large European-style market.
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic, candlelit streets.
  • See the single, giant Moravian star shining over the city.
  • Explore the historic Moravian stone buildings downtown, which are beautifully decorated.
Where to Stay: Look for a hotel or inn in the historic downtown area to be close to the festivities.
Walking into Solvang, California, in December felt like being transported to a Danish village during its Julefest celebration. The half-timbered buildings, windmills, and bakeries were all decorated for the holidays, making it a unique and charming way to experience a winter getaway.It's such a special time of year, with the town's month-long "Julefest" celebration in full swing. This one-of-a-kind Danish-style Christmas features parades, markets, and delicious European pastries.Attend the Julefest Parade and see the tree lighting ceremony. Go on the “Nisse Adventure,” a fun scavenger hunt to find the town’s mischievous Nisse (gnomes). Browse the Julefest Maker's Market for local artisan crafts. Sample Danish pastries, like aebleskiver, from the local bakeries.Choose one of the charming Danish-themed inns right in the village to be in the middle of the Julefest activities.We had to see the "Christmas Capital of Texas" for ourselves, and it did not disappoint. The entire historic Main Street is transformed, with vintage railroad becoming the “North Pole Express” for the month. There are over 1,400 events in 40 days.It's officially designated as the “Christmas Capital of Texas”. The sheer number of festive events, light displays, and activities is staggering, making it a top-tier destination for families and holiday lovers.Ride the “North Pole Express” on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Walk down the festively decorated Historic Main Street. See the light displays and ice sculptures at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Go snow tubing on a snow hill, all in the middle of Texas.The Gaylord Texan Resort is an attraction in itself, or you can stay near the Historic Main Street to be close to the events.A New Orleans Christmas is an experience all its own. We did a “Reveillon Dinner,” a modern take on a Creole holiday tradition, and it was one of the most memorable meals we’ve ever had. Afterwards, we walked to Jackson Square to see the St. Louis Cathedral all lit up while carolers sang.You get to experience unique Creole Christmas traditions you won’t find anywhere else. The weather is mild, the food is incredible, and the city’s lobbies (like at The Roosevelt) have some of the most elegant decorations we’ve seen.See the incredible holiday light displays at Celebration in the Oaks in City Park. Stroll through the French Quarter to see the balconies decorated for Christmas. Have a “Reveillon Dinner” at one of the city’s historic restaurants. Listen to live holiday music and jazz on Frenchmen Street.We recommend a hotel in the French Quarter to be in the middle of the action and see the decorated lobbies.
15. Natchitoches, LouisianaWe went to Natchitoches specifically for its Christmas Festival, and it was a total joy. It’s one of the oldest and biggest in the country. The whole city, which is the oldest in Louisiana, lights up with over 300,000 lights along the Cane River, and the weekly fireworks shows are fantastic.Why Visit in December: It hosts one of the oldest and most celebrated holiday festivals in the US, running for six weeks. It’s a classic, Southern Christmas experience in a beautiful historic district.Top Things to Do:• See the “Festival of Lights,” with hundreds of thousands of lights reflected in the Cane River.• Watch one of the spectacular fireworks shows over the river, which happen on weekends.• Stroll through the Landmark Historic District and browse the shops.• Eat a famous Natchitoches meat pie from a local vendor.Where to Stay: Book a room at a historic bed & breakfast in the downtown area.16. Williamsburg, VirginiaVisiting Colonial Williamsburg in December felt like walking through a living history Christmas card. We joined a candlelight tour, and seeing the historic buildings lit by real candles in the windows, with carolers in period costumes and the smell of woodsmoke in the air… it was absolutely magical.Why Visit in December: You get to experience a traditional, 18th-century “Colonial Christmas”. The decorations are all-natural (no plastic lights), and the atmosphere is incredibly authentic and charming.Top Things to Do:• Take a candlelight tour through the historic Colonial Williamsburg district.• Watch the “Grand Illumination,” a weekend event with fireworks and musket firings.• Go ice skating at Liberty’s Ice Pavilion.• Drive through the light show at Busch Gardens Christmas Town.Where to Stay: Stay in one of the historic Colonial Houses or a tavern right in the restored area for the full immersive experience.Best Places for a Snowy Winter WonderlandFor many, holiday season travel is all about finding that perfect, snowy scene. These are the places to go for world-class skiing, cosy lodges, and that magical feeling of a true winter escape.17. Aspen, ColoradoWe’ll always remember our first “après-ski” in Aspen. We had spent the day on the mountain hitting fresh powder whenever we got the chance, and as the sun went down, the sky lit up with this incredible pink and orange light they call “Aspenglow.” Sitting by a fire, enjoying a glass of Christmas cheer, and watching the snow fall on the historic town, it just felt like the peak of a luxury winter trip.Why Visit in December: It’s one of the world’s most famous upscale ski destinations, and the town is just as much an attraction as the mountains. The festive atmosphere, high-end shops, and restaurants are all decked out for the holidays.Top Things to Do:• Ski or snowboard at one of the four mountains (Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, or Buttermilk).• Stroll through the festively lit, Victorian-era downtown.• Enjoy the world-class après-ski scene.• Go ice skating at the Silver Circle Ice Rink.Where to Stay: Aspen is known for its luxury hotels and ski-in/ski-out resorts.
One of our favourite things about Park City is its history. We loved skiing down to the historic Main Street, popping off our skis, and walking straight into a saloon that’s been there since the silver mining days. It feels like a real Western town, not just a ski resort.It’s a historic mountain town with two world-class ski resorts (Park City and Deer Valley). The historic Main Street is incredibly charming, and the “Snow Globe Stroll” features life-sized snow globes you can walk through.Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley. Walk the historic Main Street, popping into the shops, galleries, and saloons. Experience the “Snow Globe Stroll”. Go bobsledding (with a professional pilot) at the Utah Olympic Park.You can find ski-in/ski-out hotels or stay at an inn on the historic Main Street.Jackson Hole in December is just dramatic. We took a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, and seeing thousands of elk gathered against the backdrop of the snow-covered Teton mountains… it was a powerful and wild winter experience we’ve never forgotten.It’s the perfect mix of rugged “cowboy Christmas” charm and some of the most challenging ski terrain in North America. The town square, with its famous antler arches, is beautifully lit for the holidays.Take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge. Ski or snowboard the legendary terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Take a photo under the antler arches in the festive Town Square. Go for a snowshoeing or cross-country ski day trip in Grand Teton National Park.Stay at a slopeside resort in Teton Village or in a hotel in the town of Jackson.We love Whitefish because it feels like a real, down-to-earth ski town. We spent a day snowshoeing in nearby Glacier National Park, enjoying the total silence and incredible snowy landscapes, and then came back to town for a casual dinner. It’s all the beauty, without the glitz. Just what we were looking for in a winter vacation.It’s a laid-back, charming mountain town with a top-rated ski resort and stunning scenery. It’s also right next to Glacier National Park, which is a spectacular place to explore in the winter.Ski or snowboard at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Go on a guided snowshoe or cross-country ski tour in Glacier National Park. Stroll the charming, decorated downtown. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy fields.You can find lodges on the mountain or stay in one of the friendly inns in downtown Whitefish.

North Pole, Alaska

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

Why Visit in December: It’s the ultimate Christmas fantasy come to life. The entire town is Christmas-themed, 365 days a year, but it’s most magical in December with real snow on the ground and the added bonus of possibly seeing the Northern Lights.

Top Things to Do:

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

Where to Stay: North Pole is very small; most visitors stay in the nearby city of Fairbanks, which has a wide range of hotels.

Tips for Travelling in the USA in December

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

FAQ: Best Places to Visit in the US in December

What are the best warm places to visit in December in the USA?

For the best warm weather, your top choices are Southern Florida (like Key West), Hawaii (like Maui and Honolulu), and the desert Southwest (like Phoenix and Palm Springs). The U.S. Virgin Islands are also a fantastic passport-free tropical option.

What is the best “Christmas town” to visit in December?

Leavenworth, Washington, is often considered the ultimate “Christmas town” as it looks just like a Bavarian snow globe. Other top choices include Bethlehem, PA (known as “Christmas City USA”), Solvang, CA (for a Danish-style Julefest), and Grapevine, TX (the “Christmas Capital of Texas”).

Is December a good time to visit US National Parks?

Yes, but it depends on the park. It’s the perfect time to visit desert parks like Death Valley, Everglades, and Big Bend, where summer heat is unbearable. However, many mountain parks like Glacier, Yellowstone, and parts of Yosemite are mostly inaccessible due to heavy snow and road closures.

Where does it snow in the USA in December?

You are almost guaranteed to find snow in the mountain towns of the Rockies, like Aspen, CO, Park City, UT, and Jackson Hole, WY. You’ll also find snow in the Cascade Mountains (like Leavenworth, WA), Alaska, and the mountains around Lake Tahoe.

Ready for a December Adventure?

December is a magical month to travel. Whether you’re chasing the sun, seeking out that perfect snowy scene, or looking for a town that’s full of holiday magic, the US has the perfect spot for you.We hope this list helps you plan your next getaway.
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