Discover the best places to visit in December USA for winter snow, warm beaches, Christmas festivals, and holiday travel. Perfect December vacation guide. December is one of the most magical times to travel across America, with everything from snowy winter wonderlands to sunny beach getaways. Choosing the best places to travel in December allows travelers to experience festive decorations, holiday markets, seasonal events, and unique weather that are not available at any other time of year. Whether you dream of skiing in the mountains, enjoying Christmas lights in charming small towns, or relaxing in a warm southern destination, the best places to visit in December USA cater to every travel style and budget.
Best Places to Visit in December USA
From iconic cities lit up with holiday cheer to national parks transformed by snow, the best places to visit in December USA provide unforgettable memories for families, couples, and solo travelers. December is also ideal for avoiding crowds in some areas, taking advantage of special winter deals, which make the best places to visit in December USA exciting and affordable.
Whether you prefer cozy cabins, vibrant city celebrations, or mild coastal weather, exploring the best places to visit in the US in December ensures a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and seasonal attractions. Planning your winter vacation to explore the best places to visit in the US in December can turn the end of the year into an extraordinary travel experience filled with joy, culture, and celebration.
1. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Winter is undoubtedly the best time to visit the California desert, and Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places to visit during the colder months.
In December, temperatures in the park range from around 40 degrees Fahrenheit at night to 60 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, making hiking and rock climbing during the day infinitely more enjoyable than the unbearable summer heat.
With desert covering almost a quarter of the state, there’s plenty to see. Check out this post for some of the best deserts in California.
2. Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada
If you’re dying to see Death Valley (see what I did there?) but are a little nervous about its famously sweltering temperatures, consider visiting in December! It’s one of the best places to visit in California in the winter, when the region’s temperatures typically drop to highs, making it more enjoyable for hikers.
This national park has some incredible scenery that you definitely don’t want to miss. From the colorful Artist’s Palette to the stunning Golden Canyon, there’s plenty to see and do in Death Valley.
While December is one of the best times to visit this incredible destination, it’s usually not crowded, so you can enjoy some of the best spots without worrying about overcrowding for your style.
Check out our guide to where to stay or camp in Death Valley to start planning your trip!
3. Mendocino County, California
While Mendocino County is famous for its reminder of eternal spring, December has cool temperatures that are cool enough to bundle up in, but warm enough to get outside and enjoy the area’s moody coastline.
The county is ideal for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys the comforting atmosphere of early winter. For example, Fort Bragg is home to the legendary Glass Beach, named for the layer of colorful sea glass that washes up on its shores. In Mendocino, you can explore the Jog Handle State Natural Reserve, Van Damme State Park, Mendocino Headlands State Park, and other stunning natural areas.
4. Truckee, California
You’ll want to take in the lake views at Donner Memorial State Park, hike the Truckee River Regional Park Legacy Trail, and take a dip in the Emerald Pool swimming hole—it’ll be cold but refreshing.
Lake Tahoe and Reno are just a day trip away, and Donner Pass is a historic drive. There’s also fun to be had at snowboarding, skiing, and ice skating!
If you’re feeling the snow and want to spend some time indoors, there are plenty of beautiful museums, breweries, and coffee shops to fill your heart. Check out this list of amazing things to do in Truckee.
5. Sun Valley, Idaho
Idaho is one of the best-kept secrets in the country, and December is a particularly great time to visit the state. In particular, Sun Valley offers some of the most beautiful winter scenery in the United States.
Throughout December, the nearby Sawtooth Mountains become even more magical as a fresh layer of snow adorns the landscape. With incredible skiing opportunities, naturally formed hot springs, and hospitable locals, Sun Valley is one of the best places to visit in Idaho, and December is the perfect time to visit.
6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
As the least populated state, Wyoming can be an ideal destination to enjoy some peace and quiet. Yellowstone National Park is beautiful any time of year, but especially in the winter. There’s a reason this park is on our bucket list – a worthy road trip in the US!
Many roads may be closed during this month, but the road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the Northeast Entrance is open year-round. Check out the park’s website for more information.
7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Located 30 miles south of Yellowstone, you’ll find Grand Teton National Park, which is also great to visit in December.
Most of it can only be reached by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing this time of year, but if you’re up for some adventure, the isolation is worth it. The scenery is spectacular, with plenty of snowfall in December.
8. San Juan County, Utah
Utah may not be on the list of places to visit in December for many people. Lucky for you (and your wallet!), the state has plenty to explore in the off-season. (Temperatures dip into the 40s and 20s, making for a chilly but bearable climate.)
There are plenty of great things to do in Utah in December. Exploring Little Wild Horse Canyon, admiring Bryce Canyon National Park, and visiting Arches National Park are just a few examples. These are some of the best national parks to visit in the winter!
If you’re looking for a trip full of exploration, the Valley of the Gods in San Juan County is BLM land, which means you can camp on any road pull-off (as long as you don’t leave a sign). If you decide to hike in any of Utah’s national parks, make sure you’re prepared for the potential for icy conditions.
9. Moab, Utah
Moab is nestled between two of Utah’s best national parks: Canyonlands and Arches, so this charming town surrounded by red-rock landscapes is a great choice for December adventurers. Not only can you visit popular spots like Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch without seeing too many crowds, but the cold weather here isn’t too cold to put a damper on your trip.
Moab doesn’t get much snow, but the surrounding La Sal Mountains will be completely white this time of year. The color contrast between the mountains and the red-orange rock formations is a stunning sight you only get to see in the winter.
After all, there are plenty of amazing places to see in Moab, from Double Arch to Needles Overlook, which is made up of two massive orange-stone arches, one of the park’s best viewpoints.
10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
If you’re looking for a month full of towering mountains in December, Colorado is the place to be. The state is known for having the most “fourteeners” (mountains over 14,000 feet) in the country.
While some parks may be closed at this time of year, Rocky Mountain National Park is open year-round. While you can only enjoy your trip here with snowshoeing equipment, there are also opportunities for sledding and skiing. The colder months are also ideal for seeing wildlife like elk, moose, and deer. Check out the park’s page for more details on winter activities.
11. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, Arizona, is the epicenter of all things spiritual in the United States, but it’s also a great place to enjoy the outdoors in December. Besides hiking, some of the best things to do in Sedona include taking a jeep tour to explore the surrounding area, stargazing, and enjoying a day at the spa.
If you’re coming from somewhere that gets really cold in the winter, Sedona is a great place to escape the warmer temperatures without getting too hot.
Another big advantage of traveling in December is the quieter atmosphere and fewer crowds. Head out for a hike to Seven Sacred Pools or Devil’s Bridge, and you might just enjoy some solitude, as there won’t be as many hikers as there are during the warmer months.
12. Bisti Badlands Wilderness, New Mexico
Want to see some otherworldly landscapes with names like “Alien Throne” and “Dragon Eggs”? For all of this, head to the Bisti Badlands Wilderness in New Mexico.
This incredible stretch of nature is a must-see in New Mexico because of its uniqueness. The Bisti Badlands is 45,000 acres, with no real roads or trails, perfect for travelers looking for a truly rugged adventure.
You can visit any time of year and find few people, but December is especially ideal because the weather is mild. Don’t forget to pack a 4×4 vehicle and plenty of water!
If you’re looking to combine the Bisti Badlands with other New Mexico destinations, check out this winter road trip itinerary.
13. Taos, New Mexico
After New Mexico’s climate cools down, December brings a wealth of cultural activities to the state. Taos combines both New Mexico’s natural and traditional attractions, as a historic town located a half-hour drive from the mountains, perfect for skiing. If you come at Christmas, you’ll see lights lighting up the streets and parks.
Taos, a hub for forward-thinking architecture, has an entire community of people living in Earthships, which are sustainable homes with all sorts of neat, eco-friendly features. You can read more about the Taos Earthships here.
14. Albuquerque, New Mexico
If you love history, Albuquerque could be your next great vacation spot. Be sure to explore Old Town, check out the Albuquerque Museum, visit Petroglyph National Monument, and catch a movie at the historic Kimo Theater. Also consider staying at the Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm.
Even if you’re not into history, there’s plenty more to do in Albuquerque that’s worth checking out, like snowshoeing in the Cibola National Forest, hiking in the Sandia Mountains, and taking in the views from above on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.
15. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park, a desert area on the southwestern Texan border with Mexico, is probably the best place on this list — it has the least light pollution of any national park unit in the lower 48 states!
Average temperatures in Big Bend range from a low of 39 degrees Fahrenheit at night to a high of 63 degrees Celsius during the day, although occasionally there are sudden cold spells. According to the park’s website, holidays are usually busy, so booking your stay is highly recommended.
16. Fredericksburg, Texas
For a holiday experience with a German twist, visit Fredericksburg, home to the largest number of German speakers in Texas. If you visit in late December, you’ll find the city decked out in full Christmas decorations — including a German Christmas Pyramid! Fredericksburg is also a great place for wine tasting, shopping, and museums.
The city is just 70 miles from other cities like San Antonio and Austin, making it a great road trip stop.
17. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans has a lot to offer outside of Mardi Gras season in February. In addition to being a great city for solo female travelers, it’s just as vibrant in December.
In addition to exploring the famous French Quarter, you should definitely head to the Bywater District and try some delicious vegetarian food! Another interesting thing to do here is to visit the gardens. Although they have a dark history, they will teach you more about the country’s past.
Here’s a great itinerary and a helpful packing list for visiting New Orleans. Plus, December is shoulder season, so you’ll still be able to find relatively good accommodations.
18. Florida Keys Road Trip
If you’re craving a sense of freedom, the Florida Keys – America’s own slice of Caribbean paradise – is the answer. You can drive the entire Overseas Highway, gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean, hopping from key to key.
There are plenty of things to do in places like Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pines, and Key West. A few examples include sunset sails, snorkeling, and beachcombing.
19. St. Augustine, Florida
If you’re looking to trade your surfboard for a snowboard in December, there are few places like Florida. During the holiday season, St. Augustine is best known for its Night Lights, a free celebration where the city is covered in lights!
In general, you can still enjoy Florida’s summer activities in the winter. Whether you want to learn to sail in Fort Myers or explore Cocoa Beach, the state has plenty to offer throughout the rest of the year.
20. Savannah, Georgia
For a quirky trip down south, Savannah is an exceptional destination. Shops selling holiday trinkets fill Hallmark River Street in December, providing a festive experience without the bitter cold.
As a bonus, head south about an hour and a half to Jekyll Island, Georgia for its annual Holy Jolly Jekyll Festival. Throughout December, the island offers a variety of activities, from a skating village to an array of light displays.
21. Charleston, South Carolina
With a charming and historic landscape like Savannah, Charleston is a comfortable option for travelers this month. The city’s mild weather gives visitors a slightly chilly winter feel without the dramatic snowfall.
Throughout December, the city hosts a celebration called the Festival of Lights, filled with lights, sculptures, and Santa!
It’s good to know that Charleston is just a 40-minute drive from Kiawah Island, one of the best beaches on the East Coast and another great winter destination.
22. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville’s location offers some of the best views of the Appalachian winter scenery and city amenities for a day trip. (However, depending on the weather, parts of the Blue Ridge Mountains may be closed.)
Here are some other great free and budget-friendly things to do in Asheville. And if you’re willing to spend some money, the Biltmore Estate hosts the annual Christmas at Biltmore Celebration that makes the city a popular destination during the holiday season.
23. Nashville, Tennessee
Although most of December is Nashville’s low season, the city loses none of its charm. Popular pastimes throughout the month include viewing 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.
It’s a great budget destination in the US, as there are dozens of free things to do in Nashville: a self-guided walking tour, free concerts, and the Tennessee Agricultural Museum, for example.
24. Hocking Hills, Ohio
This is a great winter destination for outdoor enthusiasts! Hocking Hills in southeastern Ohio features some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Midwest. The area is home to a number of nature preserves and parks, the most famous of which is Hocking Hills State Park. In December, you can see snow and ice formations along the trails, which add to the beauty of your hike.
25. Chicago, Illinois
There’s no denying that winter in Chicago can be very cold. However, December is not without its frosts, making it a great destination if you want to take advantage of some off-season deals.
You’ll be able to see some of the city’s top holiday attractions, including the light display at Lincoln Park Zoo and the traditional Christmas market. Chicago also has a lot of free things to do, so with off-season deals, December is a great time to visit the city on a budget.
26. New York, New York
If Hollywood has shown us anything, it’s that New York City is the quintessential place to spend the holiday season. And how could it not be iconic? From ice skating in the park to holiday shopping on Fifth Avenue, NYC is a playground for festivals.
If you’re scared off by its reputation for being expensive, consider these free things to do in the Big Apple, which can help offset some of the high costs of things like food and lodging.
27. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park, a stretch of northeastern coastal land located primarily on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, shines in December. However, some of its roads are closed during the month, so be aware of park hours and seasons.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities this time of year, along with ice fishing (although it's mostly late winter).
28. Maui, Hawaii
There's really no bad time to visit Hawaii, which is a favorite destination for those on a vacation during the holiday season.
Maui is a great place to visit, especially solo (here are tips on how to enjoy Maui alone), while excursions like the Road to Hana, one of Hawaii's most beautiful places, will keep you busy.
Check out our Hawaii guide for more tips on how to spend December. Not sure what to bring? We've got you covered with this perfect Hawaii packing list.
Read More: 25 Best Things to Do in North Island New Zealand for Travelers
Read More: Tourist Guideline
FAQ: Best Places to Visit in December USA
Q1: Is December a good time to travel in the USA?
Yes, December is a great time to travel in the USA because it offers festive holiday events, winter activities, and fewer crowds in many destinations. Travelers can enjoy seasonal attractions and special celebrations across the country.
Q2: Which types of destinations are best to visit in December?
In December, travelers can choose from snowy mountain towns for skiing, vibrant cities with holiday lights and events, or warm destinations for beach relaxation. This variety makes December suitable for all travel preferences.
Q3: Are December trips more expensive in the USA?
Costs can vary depending on the destination and travel dates. While popular holiday spots may be more expensive, many places offer off-season deals, making December travel budget-friendly with proper planning.
Q4: What should I pack for a December trip in the USA?
Packing depends on your destination. Cold-weather locations require winter clothing, while southern or coastal areas may only need light layers. Always check the local weather before traveling.
Q5: Are attractions and tours open in December?
Most major attractions and tours remain open in December, and many offer special holiday-themed experiences. However, it’s wise to check operating hours in advance, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Conclusion: Traveling in December offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the most festive and diverse environments in the United States. From snow-capped mountain retreats to warm-weather destinations, the best places to visit in the United States in December offer something special for every type of traveler. Holiday celebrations, seasonal attractions, and beautiful winter landscapes make this month ideal for creating lasting memories. Whether you're looking for adventure, entertainment, or cultural experiences, choosing the best places to visit in the United States in December ensures a productive and enjoyable end-of-year vacation that perfectly captures the magic of the season.
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