15 Magical Places to Visit in The US in December You Don’t Want to Miss!
December is a fantastic month to explore some of the most enchanting destinations across the US, where holiday lights, snowy peaks, and festive events bring out a special kind of magic.
From cozy winter towns to warmer escapes filled with seasonal charm, there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy.
Feeling unsure where to go? Here are the 15 most amazing places to visit in the US in December to spark your inspiration!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- 1. New York City, New York
- 2. Aspen, Colorado
- 3. Santa Fe, New Mexico
- 4. Leavenworth, Washington
- 5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
- 6. Orlando, Florida
- 7. Big Island, Hawaii
- 8. Chicago, Illinois
- 9. New Orleans, Louisiana
- 10. Breckenridge, Colorado
- 11. San Antonio, Texas
- 12. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- 13. Savannah, Georgia
- 14. Miami, Florida
- 15. Charleston, South Carolina
1. New York City, New York
Nothing quite compares to New York City in December!
The city lights up with holiday decor, and places like Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and Fifth Avenue transform into winter wonderlands.
The festive atmosphere is contagious, and there’s always something magical happening on every corner. Expect chilly weather around 1-8°C (34-46°F).
🎡 Best Experience: Go ice skating at Rockefeller Center beneath the famous Christmas tree.
📍 Best Hotel: M Social Hotel Times Square New York
💡 Tip: Book ice skating sessions and theater tickets early (about 2-3 months in advance)—spots fill up fast!
2. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado, tucked in the Rocky Mountains and about 200 miles west of Denver, is unbeatable in December for its prime skiing conditions and festive vibe.
The town’s slopes get fresh, powdery snow perfect for skiing, with December temps averaging -14 to 1°C (7-34°F).
Aspen’s holiday lights, cozy lodges, and bustling après-ski scene make it a special winter experience.
🎡 Best Experience: Spend a day skiing Aspen Mountain for killer views and well-maintained trails.
📍 Best Hotel: The Inn at Aspen
💡 Tip: Early December is your best bet for quieter slopes and better hotel rates before the holiday rush kicks in.
🔍 Read more: The Ultimate Ski Packing Checklist
3. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe transforms into a cozy, festive haven each December with its blend of Native American, Spanish, and Southwestern holiday traditions.
Just an hour from Albuquerque, the city’s streets glow with luminarias, especially during the enchanting Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve.
Average December temperatures range from -5 to 8°C (23-46°F), making it ideal for strolling Canyon Road’s lit-up galleries and warming up in cozy cafes afterward.
🎡 Best Experience: Join the Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve to see Canyon Road beautifully lit with luminarias and festive decorations.
📍 Best Hotel: Drury Plaza Hotel in Santa Fe
💡 Tip: Bring a warm drink and dress in layers—nights are chilly, and you’ll want to stroll comfortably while taking in the lights.
4. Leavenworth, Washington
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Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style village just two hours from Seattle, is magical in December, with snowy peaks, festive decorations, and temperatures around -4 to 2°C (25-36°F).
The streets are filled with twinkling lights, carolers, and cozy cafes, creating a winter wonderland that feels like the popular European Christmas markets.
December brings a special charm to Leavenworth, with German-inspired shops and seasonal treats adding to the magic. The mountain setting and holiday ambiance make it an ideal December getaway.
🎡 Best Experience: Visit during the Christmas Lighting Festival weekends to see the town aglow with thousands of lights and enjoy festive entertainment.
📍 Best Hotel: Bavarian Lodge
💡 Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, as Leavenworth fills up quickly during this popular holiday season.
5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is ideal to visit in December, when the mountains are blanketed in fresh snow and average temperatures range from -8 to 5°C (17-41°F).
The area offers incredible skiing and snowboarding, and the lake itself, surrounded by snowy peaks, is especially stunning this time of year.
With bustling ski resorts nearby, December is perfect for both winter sports and scenic views. The mix of natural beauty and holiday energy makes Tahoe a fantastic winter getaway.
🎡 Best Experience: Spend a day skiing or snowboarding on the North Shore, which has great slopes and unbeatable lake views.
📍 Best Hotel: The Landing Resort and Spa
💡 Tip: Early December is less crowded, so you’ll get shorter lift lines and more flexibility with accommodations.
6. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a great choice if you’re looking for a warm destination, as the temperatures range between 11-22°C (52-72°F), with far less humidity than summer months.
The theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, go all out for the holidays, featuring special parades, festive decorations, and exclusive seasonal shows.
Crowds are generally lighter in early December, making it easier to enjoy attractions with shorter wait times. The pleasant weather makes it comfortable to explore the parks all day without the sweltering summer heat.
🎡 Best Experience: Visit Disney’s holiday events, like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, for unique shows, treats, and seasonal decorations.
📍 Best Hotel: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando Downtown
💡 Tip: Arrive early for popular holiday events to grab the best viewing spots and avoid the busiest crowds.
7. Big Island, Hawaii
If you dream of sunbathing in December, then Big Island is the best choice. Temperatures there are warm, averaging around 20-27°C (68-81°F)!
Located about 200 miles from Honolulu, the island is easily reachable and comes alive with seasonal whale watching, as December marks the start of humpback migration.
Big Island’s unique landscapes, from beaches to volcanic craters, are especially beautiful under clear winter skies. With fewer tourists than the summer months, December is an ideal time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty without heavy crowds.
🎡 Best Experience: Head to the Kohala Coast for unforgettable whale watching, as humpbacks return to Hawaiian waters in December.
📍 Best Hotel: Aston Kona By The Sea
💡 Tip: Pack layers; while the beach is warm, temperatures drop in higher-altitude areas like Mauna Kea.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, located in the Midwest on the shores of Lake Michigan, is especially lively in December with its holiday lights and festive markets.
The average temperature ranges from -5 to 4°C (23-39°F), making it cold but perfect for ice skating and exploring the city’s famous Christkindlmarket.
The streets are lined with seasonal decorations, and Michigan Avenue dazzles with lights, adding a cozy holiday charm to the urban landscape. Early December has lighter crowds, making it easier to enjoy the city’s festive attractions.
🎡 Best Experience: Visit the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza for authentic German treats, holiday gifts, and a warm mug of spiced wine.
📍 Best Hotel: Arlo Chicago
💡 Tip: Plan a visit to Millennium Park early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy the ice skating rink with fewer crowds and get some beautiful photos with the city skyline in the background.
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans has a unique charm in December with mild temperatures ranging from 9-18°C (48-64°F).
The city’s French Quarter and historic neighborhoods are beautifully decorated for the holidays, creating a festive yet relaxed atmosphere.
The cooler weather makes it comfortable to explore on foot without the intense summer humidity. December also means fewer crowds, allowing you to fully enjoy the city’s vibrant music scene and famous Creole cuisine.
🎡 Best Experience: Stroll through Celebration in the Oaks at City Park, where thousands of lights illuminate the historic oak trees.
📍 Best Hotel: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
💡 Tip: Try to catch a live jazz performance at one of the local clubs in the French Quarter.
10. Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge, located about 130 kilometers (80 miles) west of Denver, is the perfect December destination for those looking for top-notch skiing and a festive mountain-town vibe.
With average temperatures ranging from -15 to -1°C (5-30°F), the town gets plenty of fresh snow, making the slopes ideal for winter sports.
December brings holiday lights, seasonal events, and the unique Ullr Fest, a quirky celebration of the Norse god of snow. The town’s cozy atmosphere, combined with excellent skiing conditions, makes it a favorite for winter adventurers.
🎡 Best Experience: Hit the slopes on Breckenridge Mountain, which has trails for all skill levels and stunning mountain views.
📍 Best Hotel: Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge
💡 Tip: Visit in early December if you want quieter slopes and more affordable accommodations before the holiday rush.
11. San Antonio, Texas
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San Antonio offers a mild December climate with temperatures averaging 6-17°C (43-63°F), making it comfortable for outdoor exploring.
The River Walk becomes especially beautiful this month, decorated with thousands of twinkling holiday lights reflecting off the water.
Seasonal boat parades and festive events add to the charm, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere without the winter chill. December is also a quieter time to visit, allowing you to enjoy the sights with fewer crowds.
🎡 Best Experience: Take a boat ride along the River Walk to enjoy the holiday lights and festive ambiance from the water.
📍 Best Hotel: Canopy By Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk
💡 Tip: Book a riverside table at a restaurant for an incredible view of the lights and parades without the crowds.
12. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
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Jackson Hole, located near Grand Teton National Park, is perfect for a December getaway with snow-covered landscapes and top-tier skiing.
Temperatures in this month range from -16 to -1°C (3-30°F), creating ideal conditions for winter sports and outdoor adventures.
The town also lights up for the holidays, and nearby slopes attract skiers from all over, while cozy lodges provide a warm retreat.
🎡 Best Experience: Spend a day skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for challenging runs and breathtaking mountain views.
📍 Best Hotel: Elk Country Inn
💡 Tip: Book reservations for popular restaurants and activities in advance, as Jackson Hole has limited spots that fill up quickly during the holiday season.
13. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is particularly charming in December when holiday lights and decorations add warmth to its historic squares.
With average temperatures ranging from 5-17°C (41-63°F), it’s comfortable for strolling through the city’s cobblestone streets and admiring the festive decor.
December also brings events like the Holiday Tour of Homes, where visitors can explore beautifully decorated historic houses. The mix of mild weather and cozy holiday charm makes Savannah a unique winter escape.
🎡 Best Experience: Take the Holiday Tour of Homes to see Savannah’s historic homes decked out in festive decor (book in advance).
📍 Best Hotel: Perry Lane Hotel
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Savannah is best enjoyed on foot, especially with all the holiday sights around town.
14. Miami, Florida
Miami, Florida is a fantastic escape in December, offering warm temperatures around 19-26°C (66-79°F) that are ideal for beach days and outdoor activities.
While much of the country is bundled up, Miami’s weather allows you to enjoy the beaches, explore the city’s neighborhoods, and dine outdoors comfortably.
Holiday lights on palm trees and lively events give Miami a unique and festive vibe this time of year.
🎡 Best Experience: Visit Art Basel to see a unique mix of art installations and exhibitions throughout Miami Beach.
📍 Best Hotel: Mint House Miami – Downtown
💡 Tip: Expect heavy traffic around popular events in December, so consider using rideshares or public transport to save time and avoid parking hassles.
15. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina offers mild December temperatures around 6-17°C (43-63°F), perfect for exploring the historic downtown and its holiday decorations.
The city’s famous cobblestone streets and historic homes look especially beautiful adorned with seasonal lights.
December also brings smaller crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience of Charleston’s rich history and Southern hospitality. From historic tours to waterfront walks, it’s an ideal time to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
🎡 Best Experience: Visit the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park to see over two million lights displayed in creative holiday scenes.
📍 Best Hotel: The Pinch Charleston
💡 Tip: Book dinner reservations in advance if you plan to dine downtown, as popular restaurants fill up quickly with holiday visitors.
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