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21 Greatest Locations to Go to in December within the USA (2025 Version)
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21 Greatest Locations to Go to in December within the USA (2025 Version)

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Last updated: October 31, 2025 12:11 pm
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Published: October 31, 2025
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Fast Listing: Greatest Locations to Go to in December within the USAWhy Journey to the USA in December?Greatest Heat Locations to Go to in December within the USA1. Key West, Florida2. Maui, Hawaii3. U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas / St. John)4. St. Augustine, Florida5. Honolulu, Hawaii6. South Padre Island, Texas7. Phoenix/Scottsdale, ArizonaGreatest Christmas Cities & Festive Cities to Go to in December8. New York Metropolis, New York9. Leavenworth, Washington10. Asheville, North Carolina11. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania12. Solvang, California13. Grapevine, Texas14. New Orleans, Louisiana15. Natchitoches, Louisiana16. Williamsburg, VirginiaGreatest Locations for a Snowy Winter Wonderland17. Aspen, Colorado18. Park Metropolis, Utah19. Jackson Gap, Wyoming20. Whitefish, Montana21. North Pole, AlaskaSuggestions for Travelling within the USA in DecemberFAQ: Greatest Locations to Go to within the US in DecemberPrepared for a December Journey?

We’ll always remember the primary time we visited New York Metropolis in December. We’d seen it in films, however standing there, seeing the Rockefeller Heart tree all lit up for the primary time, with skaters beneath and festive music within the air… it was pure magic.

However December journey isn’t nearly snow and Santa. We’ve additionally spent the vacations escaping to the heat, buying and selling snow boots for flip-flops.

Actually, we’ve been to virtually all 50 states and spent quite a lot of winters looking for probably the most enjoyable locations and greatest climate. We’ve completed so many highway journeys within the USA and flown virtually in every single place, looking for one of the best locations to both escape the snow or benefit from the winter, you’ll suppose we’re obsessed. And we wish to share all of that information with you.

When you’re searching for the proper winter getaway, you’ve a transparent selection: both lean into the winter magic or escape it fully. Are you dreaming of a warm-weather escape with sunshine and sand, or a storybook Christmas city that appears like a real-life snow globe?

Primarily based on all these experiences, we’ve put collectively this record of our favorite locations to go to. Whether or not you’re searching for a festive metropolis, a snowy mountain, or a sunny seashore, we’ll aid you discover the proper spot.

Dave and Deb of The Planet D bundled up and smiling on a snowy winter adventure

Fast Listing: Greatest Locations to Go to in December within the USA

Here’s a fast take a look at among the greatest locations for a December getaway within the USA, from festive winter wonderlands to sunny escapes.

  • New York Metropolis, New York: The final word festive metropolis expertise.
  • Leavenworth, Washington: An actual-life Bavarian Christmas village.
  • Key West, Florida: Laid-back island life and sunshine.
  • Aspen, Colorado: World-class snowboarding and a magical mountain city.
  • Maui, Hawaii: The right warm-weather escape to see humpback whales.
  • Asheville, North Carolina: Festive lights on the Biltmore Property.
  • St. Augustine, Florida: Taking within the “Nights of Lights” show.
  • Scottsdale, Arizona: Sunny desert hikes and leisure.
  • Park Metropolis, Utah: A historic ski city with vacation attraction.
  • New Orleans, Louisiana: Creole Christmas traditions and nice meals.
  • Solvang, California: A novel Danish-style Julefest celebration.

Why Journey to the USA in December?

December is a month of pure magic and festive power. It’s the proper time to make use of up that final little bit of trip time for the yr. The most important draw is the distinct selection it affords: You possibly can both dive head-first right into a winter wonderland, full with snow and vacation markets, or you possibly can fully escape the chilly climate and end up on a sunny seashore. It’s a month of festive celebrations, unimaginable decorations, and discovering the proper environment to finish the yr.

Greatest Heat Locations to Go to in December within the USA

When you’re something like us, typically one of the best present in December is a break from the chilly. Belief us, we all know after dwelling in Toronto, Canada. These winters are brutal. These are our favorite spots to seek out sunshine and heat climate, the place you possibly can commerce your winter coat for a lightweight jacket or perhaps a swimsuit.

1. Key West, Florida

We love the laid-back, quirky vibe of Key West, and it’s much more particular in December. We have now an amazing reminiscence of biking across the island, seeing the historic inns draped in vacation lights, after which ending the day at Mallory Sq. for the sundown celebration. It’s an ideal escape from the chilly.

Why Go to in December: That is the proper time to go to. The summer season humidity is gone, the climate is sunny and heat (usually within the excessive 70s), and the danger of hurricanes may be very low. The entire island is in a festive spirit, with distinctive occasions just like the “Bight Earlier than Christmas” boat parade.

High Issues to Do:

  • Watch the “Bight Earlier than Christmas” lighted boat parade.
  • Take a journey on the Conch Prepare to see the historic houses embellished for the vacations.
  • Go to the Southernmost Level within the continental US for a traditional photograph op.
  • Go on a sundown sail to benefit from the view from the water.

The place to Keep: We advocate discovering a guesthouse or inn within the historic Previous City to be near the motion.

2. Maui, Hawaii

We as soon as went to a vacation luau in Ka’anapali, and it’s an expertise we’ll always remember. You’re consuming kalua pork and sipping a mai tai, watching a stupendous hula efficiency… after which Santa Claus arrives on an outrigger canoe. It was the proper, uniquely Hawaiian option to get into the festive spirit.

Why Go to in December: You get tropical climate, festive vacation luaus, and it’s the official begin of the humpback whale watching season. Bear in mind that it is a widespread time, particularly round Christmas, so costs could be excessive and also you’ll have to e-book upfront.

High Issues to Do:

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

The place to Keep: Look to the resorts in Wailea or Ka’anapali for a traditional Maui expertise.

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

The white sand beach and clear turquoise water of Trunk Bay in St. John, USVI, a beautiful December travel destination.The white sand beach and clear turquoise water of Trunk Bay in St. John, USVI, a beautiful December travel destination.

We’ll at all times keep in mind snorkeling the underwater path at Trunk Bay in St. John. The water was so calm and clear, and seeing all the colorful fish felt a world away from the snow again residence. That’s the magic of a Caribbean journey in December, and the USVI makes it really easy for American vacationers.

Why Go to in December: It’s the beginning of the dry season, with implausible climate and heat, clear water. You get a full-on tropical, warm-weather Christmas expertise, all while not having a passport.

High Issues to Do:

  • Snorkel the well-known underwater path at Trunk Bay, St. John.
  • Loosen up on the world-famous white sands of Magens Bay in St. Thomas.
  • Discover the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins in St. John.
  • Benefit from the distinctive “Christmas Second Day” (Crucian Christmas Pageant) celebrations, an area custom.

The place to Keep: You possibly can select from giant resorts in St. Thomas or extra eco-friendly villas and lodges in St. John.

4. St. Augustine, Florida

Historic buildings in St. Augustine, Florida, are covered in white lights during the Nights of Lights festival.Historic buildings in St. Augustine, Florida, are covered in white lights during the Nights of Lights festival.

We weren’t ready for a way magical St. Augustine is in December. We took one of many Previous City trolley excursions at evening, and seeing your complete historic metropolis, from the outdated Spanish structure to the palm bushes, draped in hundreds of thousands of white lights… it was breathtaking. It’s a vacation gentle show in contrast to another.

Why Go to in December: The well-known “Nights of Lights” pageant. All the metropolis is illuminated, and the delicate Florida climate is ideal for strolling round and having fun with the environment. It’s one of the vital festive and heat locations you possibly can go to.

High Issues to Do:

  • Take a trolley or strolling tour of the “Nights of Lights” show.
  • Stroll via the historic streets and go to the Castillo de San Marcos.
  • See the town’s Christmas tree within the Plaza de la Constitución.
  • Go to the St. Augustine Distillery for a holiday-themed tasting.

The place to Keep: We advocate a historic inn or mattress & breakfast within the downtown district to be inside strolling distance of all of the lights.

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

The famous christmas tree decorated for the Mele Kalikimaka celebration in Honolulu, a great place to go in December.The famous christmas tree decorated for the Mele Kalikimaka celebration in Honolulu, a great place to go in December.

Whereas Maui is our go-to for a resort escape, Honolulu is the place you go for a vibrant, city-meets-beach vacation. We cherished seeing the huge Santa browsing along with his reindeer within the fountain on the Iolani Palace. The entire metropolis has this wonderful “Mele Kalikimaka” (Merry Christmas) spirit.

Why Go to in December: It’s the proper mix of heat seashore climate, world-class procuring, and festive shows. It’s additionally a big month for historical past, with the memorial occasions at Pearl Harbor.

High Issues to Do:

  • See the “Honolulu Metropolis Lights” show at Honolulu Hale.
  • Pay respects on the Pearl Harbor Nationwide Memorial (particularly transferring round Dec seventh).
  • Watch skilled surfers journey the huge winter waves on the North Shore.
  • Loosen up on the world-famous Waikiki Seashore.

The place to Keep: Waikiki has an enormous vary of resorts, from historic beachfront properties to trendy high-rises.

6. South Padre Island, Texas

A wide, quiet beach with sand dunes on South Padre Island, a warm place to visit in December in the USA.A wide, quiet beach with sand dunes on South Padre Island, a warm place to visit in December in the USA.

In case your thought of a winter getaway is to actually get away from all the pieces, the crowds, the noise, the stress, then South Padre is an ideal selection. We spent every week there, and our days consisted of lengthy, quiet walks on the seashore. It was a complete reset and the proper option to escape the winter blues.

Why Go to in December: The climate is delicate, and the crowds are gone. It’s one of many warmest locations in Texas and affords a easy, enjoyable seashore trip with out the excessive costs or vacation chaos of different locations.

High Issues to Do:

  • Go birdwatching on the Laguna Atascosa Nationwide Wildlife Refuge.
  • Go to Sea Turtle, Inc. to find out about their rehabilitation efforts.
  • Take a dolphin-watching cruise within the Laguna Madre.
  • Merely benefit from the quiet, uncrowded seashores.

The place to Keep: You’ll discover many beachfront condos and resorts providing nice low season charges.

7. Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona

old Town Scottsdale outside of Phoenix Arizona in Decemberold Town Scottsdale outside of Phoenix Arizona in December

We thought we knew desert vacation lights, however the “Las Noches de las Luminarias” on the Desert Botanical Backyard in Phoenix is on one other stage. Strolling the backyard paths lit by hundreds of hand-lit luminaria baggage, with musicians taking part in, was a top-tier vacation expertise.

Why Go to in December: You get two journeys in a single: excellent, sunny climate for outside adventures like mountain climbing through the day, and beautiful, refined vacation gentle shows at evening.

High Issues to Do:

  • Stroll via the “Las Noches de las Luminarias” on the Desert Botanical Backyard.
  • Hike Camelback Mountain or discover the paths in Papago Park.
  • See the “Zoolights” on the Phoenix Zoo.
  • Discover the festively embellished retailers and galleries in Previous City Scottsdale.

The place to Keep: Select from upscale resorts in Scottsdale or fashionable resorts in downtown Phoenix.

Greatest Christmas Cities & Festive Cities to Go to in December

Typically, the nice and cozy climate locations simply received’t lower it, particularly in case you are searching for that winter wonderland really feel. So, this part is for travellers who wish to dive head-first into the vacation spirit. These are the cities and cities that go all-out for December, with hundreds of thousands of lights, Christmas markets, and an environment of pure magic.

8. New York Metropolis, New York

We’ve visited NYC many instances, however there’s a particular power in December. We grabbed sizzling sweets and walked via the Bryant Park Winter Village, watching the ice skaters zip across the rink below the lights of the encompassing skyscrapers. It felt like being within the opening scene of a vacation film. There may be nothing like New York Metropolis at Christmas.

Why Go to in December: It’s the quintessential American Christmas vacation spot. From the enduring tree to the world-famous window shows, your complete metropolis is on a unique stage of festive.

High Issues to Do:

  • See the Rockefeller Heart Christmas Tree and go ice skating on the rink beneath.
  • Browse the vacation retailers and go skating on the Bryant Park Winter Village.
  • See the Radio Metropolis Christmas Spectacular that includes the Rockettes.
  • Admire the frilly vacation window shows alongside Fifth Avenue.

The place to Keep: Midtown is handy for seeing the primary vacation sights, however we additionally love the West Village for its cosy, neighbourhood really feel.

9. Leavenworth, Washington

Christmas lights at night in Leavenworth Washington.Christmas lights at night in Leavenworth Washington.

We’d heard Leavenworth was a “Christmas City,” however we weren’t ready for the fact. We visited through the Village of Lights pageant, and strolling via the snow-covered Bavarian-style village whereas each single constructing was coated in over half one million lights… it’s not an exaggeration. It’s the closest we’ve ever felt to being inside a real-life snow globe.

Why Go to in December: All the city transforms right into a “Hallmark film” Christmas village. It’s a full-immersion vacation expertise with carolers, festive meals, and unimaginable decorations.

High Issues to Do:

  • See the “Village of Lights” (it’s lit up all month).
  • Go to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm to stand up shut with reindeer.
  • Discover the Bavarian-themed retailers searching for distinctive presents.
  • Go to the Nutcracker Museum, which options over 7,000 nutcrackers.

The place to Keep: Guide a Bavarian-style lodge or inn proper within the village. You could e-book many months upfront for December.

10. Asheville, North Carolina

The grand banquet hall at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, decorated with a giant Christmas tree.The grand banquet hall at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, decorated with a giant Christmas tree.

We love Asheville, however visiting in December is all in regards to the Biltmore Property. We took the candlelight night tour, and seeing the primary banquet corridor with its 35-foot tree, fireplaces roaring, and carolers singing… it felt like we’d stepped again in time right into a Gilded Age Christmas occasion.

Why Go to in December: Christmas at Biltmore is likely one of the most iconic vacation occasions within the nation. Town itself is a comfortable mountain retreat, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are simply lovely with a dusting of snow.

High Issues to Do:

  • Take the Candlelight Christmas Night tour on the Biltmore Property.
  • See the Nationwide Gingerbread Home Competitors at The Omni Grove Park Inn.
  • Discover the Winter Lights show on the NC Arboretum.
  • Browse the impartial retailers and galleries within the River Arts District.

The place to Keep: You possibly can keep on the Biltmore Property for the complete expertise or select a boutique resort downtown.

Listed below are the remaining locations for the “Greatest Christmas Cities & Festive Cities” part, all written with distinctive, December-focused content material.

11. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Shoppers browse the festive wooden stalls at the Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as Christmas City USA.Shoppers browse the festive wooden stalls at the Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as Christmas City USA.

We’ve visited quite a lot of Christmas markets, however visiting the one in Bethlehem, generally known as “Christmas Metropolis USA”, simply felt proper. We sipped sizzling cider and browsed the stalls within the outdated quarter, and you may really feel the town’s 250+ years of Christmas custom. The entire place is lit by the glow of an enormous Moravian star on the hillside.

Why Go to in December: This is Christmas Metropolis USA. It was nicknamed this on Christmas Eve, 1741. It affords one of the vital genuine and historic vacation experiences within the nation, mixing its Moravian heritage with a European-style Christkindlmarkt.

High Issues to Do:

  • Browse the artisan stalls on the Christkindlmarkt, a big European-style market.
  • Take a horse-drawn carriage journey via the historic, candlelit streets.
  • See the one, big Moravian star shining over the town.
  • Discover the historic Moravian stone buildings downtown, that are superbly embellished.

The place to Keep: Search for a resort or inn within the historic downtown space to be near the festivities.

12. Solvang, California

Solvang, California, decorated for the town's Julefest celebration.Solvang, California, decorated for the town's Julefest celebration.

Strolling into Solvang in December felt like we’d been transported to a Danish village throughout its Julefest celebration. We spent the day exploring the half-timbered buildings, windmills, and bakeries, all embellished for the vacations. It’s such a novel and charming option to expertise a winter getaway in the midst of California.

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

High Issues to Do:

  • Attend the Julefest Parade and see the tree lighting ceremony.
  • Go on the “Nisse Journey,” a enjoyable scavenger hunt to seek out the city’s mischievous Nisse (gnomes).
  • Browse the Julefest Maker’s Marketplace for native artisan crafts.
  • Pattern Danish pastries, like aebleskiver, from the native bakeries.

The place to Keep: Select one of many charming Danish-themed inns proper within the village to be in the midst of the Julefest actions.

13. Grapevine, Texas

Christmas decorations are everywhere in Grapevine Texas, AKA Christmas Capital of TexasChristmas decorations are everywhere in Grapevine Texas, AKA Christmas Capital of Texas

We needed to see the “Christmas Capital of Texas” for ourselves, and it didn’t disappoint. All the historic Principal Avenue is reworked. We cherished seeing the classic railroad, which turns into the “North Pole Categorical” for the month. They take the “Christmas Capital” title severely; there are over 1,400 occasions in 40 days.

Why Go to in December: It’s the formally designated “Christmas Capital of Texas”. The sheer variety of festive occasions, gentle shows, and actions is staggering, making it a top-tier vacation spot for households and vacation lovers.

High Issues to Do:

  • Experience the “North Pole Categorical” on the Grapevine Classic Railroad.
  • Stroll down the festively embellished Historic Principal Avenue.
  • See the sunshine shows and ice sculptures on the Gaylord Texan Resort.
  • Go snow tubing on a snow hill, all in the midst of Texas.

The place to Keep: The Gaylord Texan Resort is an attraction in itself, or you possibly can keep close to the Historic Principal Avenue to be near the occasions.

14. New Orleans, Louisiana

A historic wrought-iron balcony in the French Quarter of New Orleans, decorated with festive Christmas garlands.A historic wrought-iron balcony in the French Quarter of New Orleans, decorated with festive Christmas garlands.

A New Orleans Christmas is an expertise all its personal. We did a “Reveillon Dinner,” a contemporary tackle a Creole vacation custom, and it was one of the vital memorable meals we’ve ever had. Afterwards, we walked to Jackson Sq. to see the St. Louis Cathedral all lit up whereas carolers sang.

Why Go to in December: You get to expertise distinctive Creole Christmas traditions you received’t discover wherever else. The climate is delicate, the meals is unimaginable, and the town’s lobbies (like at The Roosevelt) have among the most elegant decorations we’ve seen.

High Issues to Do:

  • See the unimaginable vacation gentle shows at Celebration within the Oaks in Metropolis Park.
  • Stroll via the French Quarter to see the balconies embellished for Christmas.
  • Have a “Reveillon Dinner” at one of many metropolis’s historic eating places.
  • Take heed to dwell vacation music and jazz on Frenchmen Avenue.

The place to Keep: We advocate a resort within the French Quarter to be in the midst of the motion and see the embellished lobbies.

15. Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches Festival of Lights takes place on the Cane riverNatchitoches Festival of Lights takes place on the Cane river

We went to Natchitoches (pronounced Nak-a-tish) particularly for its Christmas Pageant, and it was a complete pleasure. It’s one of many oldest and largest within the nation. The entire metropolis, which is the oldest in Louisiana, lights up with over 300,000 lights alongside the Cane River, and the weekly fireworks exhibits are implausible.

Why Go to in December: It hosts one of many oldest and most celebrated vacation festivals within the US, working for six weeks. It’s a traditional, Southern Christmas expertise in a stupendous historic district.

High Issues to Do:

  • See the “Pageant of Lights,” with a whole lot of hundreds of lights mirrored within the Cane River.
  • Watch one of many spectacular fireworks exhibits over the river, which occur on weekends.
  • Stroll via the Landmark Historic District and browse the retailers.
  • Eat a well-known Natchitoches meat pie from an area vendor.

The place to Keep: Guide a room at a historic mattress & breakfast within the downtown space.

16. Williamsburg, Virginia

A historic street in Colonial Williamsburg at night, with real candles glowing in the windows of the buildings.A historic street in Colonial Williamsburg at night, with real candles glowing in the windows of the buildings.

Visiting Colonial Williamsburg in December felt like strolling via a dwelling historical past Christmas card. We joined a candlelight tour, and seeing the historic buildings lit by actual candles within the home windows, with carolers in interval costumes and the scent of woodsmoke within the air… it was completely magical.

Why Go to in December: You get to expertise a standard, 18th-century “Colonial Christmas”. The decorations are all-natural (no plastic lights), and the environment is extremely genuine and charming.

High Issues to Do:

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

The place to Keep: Keep in one of many historic Colonial Homes or a tavern proper within the restored space for the complete immersive expertise.

Right here is the ultimate class of locations. This part is all about embracing the snow and discovering that excellent winter wonderland.

Greatest Locations for a Snowy Winter Wonderland

For a lot of, vacation season journey is all about discovering that excellent, snowy scene. These are the locations to go for world-class snowboarding, cosy lodges, and that magical feeling of a real winter escape.

17. Aspen, Colorado

The epic road throught the Rocky Mountains on our way to Aspen, ColoradoThe epic road throught the Rocky Mountains on our way to Aspen, Colorado

We’ll at all times keep in mind our first “après-ski” in Aspen. We had spent the day on the mountain hitting contemporary powder every time we acquired the prospect, and because the solar went down, the sky lit up with this unimaginable pink and orange gentle they name “Aspenglow.” Sitting by a fireplace, having fun with a glass of Christmas cheer, and watching the snowstorm on the historic city, it simply felt like the height of a luxurious winter journey.

Why Go to in December: It’s one of many world’s most well-known upscale ski locations, and the city is simply as a lot an attraction because the mountains. The festive environment, high-end retailers, and eating places are all decked out for the vacations.

High Issues to Do:

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

The place to Keep: Aspen is thought for its luxurious resorts and ski-in/ski-out resorts.

18. Park Metropolis, Utah

Park City, Utah, covered in snow and lit up for the holidays.Park City, Utah, covered in snow and lit up for the holidays.

One in every of our favorite issues about Park Metropolis is its historical past. We cherished snowboarding all the way down to the historic Principal Avenue, popping off our skis, and strolling straight right into a saloon that’s been there for the reason that silver mining days. It looks like an actual Western city, not only a ski resort.

Why Go to in December: It’s a historic mountain city with two world-class ski resorts (Park Metropolis and Deer Valley). The historic Principal Avenue is extremely charming, and the “Snow Globe Stroll” options life-sized snow globes you possibly can stroll via.

High Issues to Do:

  • Ski or snowboard at Park Metropolis Mountain Resort or Deer Valley.
  • Stroll the historic Principal Avenue, popping into the retailers, galleries, and saloons.
  • Expertise the “Snow Globe Stroll”.
  • Go bobsledding (with knowledgeable pilot) on the Utah Olympic Park.

The place to Keep: You could find ski-in/ski-out resorts or keep at an inn on the historic Principal Avenue.

19. Jackson Gap, Wyoming

The famous antler arches in Jackson Hole's Town Square, a top place to visit in December.The famous antler arches in Jackson Hole's Town Square, a top place to visit in December.

Jackson Gap in December is simply dramatic. We took a sleigh journey via the Nationwide Elk Refuge, and seeing hundreds of elk gathered towards the backdrop of the snow-covered Teton mountains… it was a robust and wild winter expertise we’ve by no means forgotten.

Why Go to in December: It’s the proper mixture of rugged “cowboy Christmas” attraction and among the most difficult ski terrain in North America. The city sq., with its well-known antler arches, is superbly lit for the vacations.

High Issues to Do:

  • Take a sleigh journey via the Nationwide Elk Refuge.
  • Ski or snowboard the legendary terrain at Jackson Gap Mountain Resort.
  • Take a photograph below the antler arches within the festive City Sq..
  • Go for a snowshoeing or cross-country ski day journey in Grand Teton Nationwide Park.

The place to Keep: Keep at a slopeside resort in Teton Village or in a resort within the city of Jackson.

20. Whitefish, Montana

A person snowshoeing on a trail in Glacier National Park near Whitefish, Montana, a great December adventure.A person snowshoeing on a trail in Glacier National Park near Whitefish, Montana, a great December adventure.

We love Whitefish as a result of it looks like an actual, down-to-earth ski city. We spent a day snowshoeing in close by Glacier Nationwide Park, having fun with the full silence and unimaginable snowy landscapes, after which got here again to city for an informal dinner. It’s all the wonder, with out the glitz. Simply what we have been searching for in a winter trip.

Why Go to in December: It’s a laid-back, charming mountain city with a top-rated ski resort and beautiful surroundings. It’s additionally proper subsequent to Glacier Nationwide Park, which is a spectacular place to discover within the winter.

High Issues to Do:

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

The place to Keep: You could find lodges on the mountain or keep in one of many pleasant inns in downtown Whitefish.

21. North Pole, Alaska

Dave and Deb at the festive Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska, one of the best places to visit in December.Dave and Deb at the festive Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska, one of the best places to visit in December.

This was a visit purely for the enjoyable of it, and it was 100% value it. You drive down streets named “Santa Claus Lane” and “St. Nicholas Drive,” the streetlights are formed like sweet canes, and you may go to the Santa Claus Home and see his reindeer. It’s a surreal and joyful expertise.

Why Go to in December: It’s the final word Christmas fantasy come to life. All the city is Christmas-themed, three hundred and sixty five days a yr, but it surely’s most magical in December with actual snow on the bottom and the added bonus of probably seeing the Northern Lights.

High Issues to Do:

  • Go to the Santa Claus Home to satisfy Santa and see his reindeer.
  • Ship a postcard to family and friends with an genuine “North Pole” postmark.
  • Drive round to see the candy-cane-striped streetlights.
  • Go canine sledding or search for the Aurora Borealis in close by Fairbanks.

The place to Keep: North Pole may be very small; most guests keep within the close by metropolis of Fairbanks, which has a variety of resorts.

Suggestions for Travelling within the USA in December

  • Guide The whole lot in Advance: December, particularly the interval from mid-month via New 12 months’s, is likely one of the most costly and busiest journey instances of the yr. Flights and resorts promote out and costs are excessive. Guide as far forward as you probably can.
  • Pack for Your Vacation spot (and Be Ready): The climate varies wildly. You’ll be in a swimsuit in Hawaii and a heavy-duty parka in Alaska. For ski cities, “apres-ski” garments are simply as necessary as your ski gear. For heat locations, keep in mind it may possibly nonetheless get cool at evening.
  • Hire a 4WD: When you’re heading to a snowy mountain vacation spot like Colorado, Utah, or Wyoming, a 4WD or all-wheel-drive automobile is important. Examine highway situations earlier than you drive.
  • Examine Occasion Schedules: For the festive cities, many parades, markets, and light-up occasions solely occur on particular weekends. Examine the official city or occasion web sites earlier than you e-book to be sure you received’t miss the primary occasion.

FAQ: Greatest Locations to Go to within the US in December

What are one of the best heat locations to go to in December within the USA?

For one of the best heat climate, your prime selections 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 additionally a implausible passport-free tropical choice.

What’s the greatest “Christmas city” to go to in December?

Leavenworth, Washington, is usually thought-about the final word “Christmas city” because it appears to be like similar to a Bavarian snow globe. Different prime selections embody Bethlehem, PA (generally known as “Christmas Metropolis USA”), Solvang, CA (for a Danish-style Julefest), and Grapevine, TX (the “Christmas Capital of Texas”).

Is December a superb time to go to US Nationwide Parks?

Sure, but it surely will depend on the park. It’s the proper time to go to desert parks like Loss of life Valley, Everglades, and Massive Bend, the place summer season warmth is insufferable. Nevertheless, many mountain parks like Glacier, Yellowstone, and elements of Yosemite are largely inaccessible as a consequence of heavy snow and highway closures.

The place does it snow within the USA in December?

You might be virtually assured to seek out snow within the mountain cities of the Rockies, like Aspen, CO, Park Metropolis, UT, and Jackson Gap, WY. You’ll additionally discover snow within the Cascade Mountains (like Leavenworth, WA), Alaska, and the mountains round Lake Tahoe.

Prepared for a December Journey?

Dave and Deb celebrating Christmas in Key West FloridaDave and Deb celebrating Christmas in Key West Florida

December is a magical month to journey. Whether or not you’re chasing the solar, in search of out that excellent snowy scene, or searching for a city that’s filled with vacation magic, the US has the proper spot for you.

We hope this record, primarily based on our personal winter travels, helps you propose your subsequent getaway. Save this on Pinterest on your vacation planning! The place is your favorite place to go in December?

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