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Best places to visit in December in the USA
Heading to the USA this holiday season? From ski resorts to beach destinations, New York to national parks, here are the best places to visit in December in the USA for your kind of holiday cheer.
Whether you’re headed to the city of lights for the annual tree lighting ceremony or searching for warm weather and coastal flavor, this guide is filled with top spots for holiday spirit.
We’ll cover the best winter destinations, warm December getaways, national parks, and family-friendly places to visit in the USA.
From twinkling lights to twirling hiking trails, here are the best places to visit in December in the USA.
Top winter destinations
Hungry for some Holiday shopping? How about unforgettable skiing?
Find the perfect present at a holiday market in New York, take in a real winter wonderland in Aspen, or enjoy the festive atmosphere of popular ski resorts in Utah.
Here are our favorite December destinations in the US for winter cozies.
New York City
Topping any list of cities to visit in December is, of course, New York City (NYC). It’s the perfect place to catch cozy Christmas markets, holiday parades, and, if you’re going in early December, the famous tree lighting ceremony in Rockefeller Center.
NYC during the holidays makes for an ideal romantic vacation full of Christmas lights, ice skating in Central Park, and snow-kissed streets.
Or, bring the family to see Santa Claus at Macy’s in Herald Square and immerse yourself in the Christmas decor of the spectacular Macy’s Santaland.
NYC in December must-dos:
- See The Nutcracker on Broadway
- Shop The Union Square holiday market
- Go ice skating in Central Park, Bryant Park, or Rockefeller Plaza
- Enjoy public menorah lightings in Central Park or Prospect Park
- Walk Fifth Avenue to see the holiday decor in department store windows
| 💡Tip: If you’re up for skating, Bryant Park is usually less crowded than Rockefeller Center, and it’s free if you bring your own skates! |
Aspen, Colorado
Welcome to a real winter wonderland. Aspen, Colorado is full of some of the world’s best ski resorts and holiday spirit.
Watch Christmas trees where they come from, then enjoy the best holiday shopping in Aspen’s blend of high-end boutiques, charming shops, and local artisan stores.
After a day on the slopes, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or a hot toddy.
Aspen winter sports must-dos:
- Cross-country skiing at Sky Mountain Park
- Skiing and snowboarding at Aspen Mountain (Ajax)
- Snow tubing for the whole family at Snowmass Resort
Need even more adventure? You can take a quick trip to Breckenridge from Aspen in just over two hours for more world-class skiing.
Colorado is full of snow-capped mountains, ski resorts, and cozy cabins, making it one of the best places to go in December in the USA for winter weather lovers.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Nothing says a great December getaway like Christmas lights under the stars.
Salt Lake City, Utah is one of our top winter destinations in the US for its stunning natural beauty, unforgettable cross-country skiing, and some of the best snow for skiing and snowboarding.
This destination is located in close proximity to some of the best ski resorts in the United States, offering a wide variety of terrain for skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
Salt Lake City must-dos:
- Ice skating at the Ice Sheet in Utah Olympic Park
- Cross-country skiing at Sugarhouse Park
- Stargazing at Antelope Island State Park
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Warm getaways for December
Whether it’s the beach or the desert, you deserve some warm weather. Swap the sweater for some shades on your US packing list, and get ready for some sun, sea, and serenity—these are the top destinations for a warm getaway in December.
Miami Beach, Florida
Who needs mistletoe when you have a palm tree? Miami Beach is one of the warmest places to visit in December with the entire family, for a romantic trip, or a young professional getaway.
Florida’s east coast offers golf courses, warm weather, and multiple neighboring beach destinations to Miami Beach like Doral, New Smyrna Beach, and more.
Miami Beach must-dos:
- Explore warm weather and beautiful beaches: Miami is a popular destination year-round for sun lovers. In December, the daytime temperatures average around 75°F (about 23°C), and nights cool off to an easy 60°F (about 11.5°C), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach visits.
- Take in art and technology: Visit Art Basel, the premier international contemporary art fair, between December 6-8 on the south shore, tickets start at $85 USD per day. Or, attend the Rise & Thrive: MetaFusion Conference on December 21, which features discussions on technology’s role in various industries, tickets start at $100.
- Taste the food scene: Miami’s food scene is a fusion of Latin American, Caribbean, and international flavors. For everything from upscale dining to casual street food try Wynwood for trendy eateries or Little Havana for local little gems.
- Take a day trip: Check out the Everglades National Park, which is just an hour’s drive from Miami Beach. If you’re happy to take a longer journey, you’re about three to four hours away from Walt Disney World and Key West in the Florida Keys.
Phoenix, Arizona
When was the last time you heard Christmas carols in the desert? Phoenix is one of the best US destinations for countering the wet and cold weather of elsewhere with some burnt orange Arizona sun.
It’s got the perfect mix of fun city activities and incredible nature nearby.
Phoenix must-dos:
- Check out the Scottsdale scene: Just 15 miles outside of downtown Phoenix, you’ll find a plethora of awesome eateries, serene spas, and top-notch nightlife.
- Feast your eyes on the iconic Camelback Mountain: Head just seven miles outside of downtown Phoenix and you’ll find one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering popular hiking trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding desert landscape.
- Visit the Desert Botanical Garden: This one’s worth a visit no matter what time of the year you visit, but December is especially magical as it hosts the annual Las Noches de las Luminarias event. During this celebration, pathways are lined with thousands of luminaria bags, lighting the way for visitors, live music performances, and holiday happiness.
| 💡Tip: Don’t miss the First Friday Art Walk in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, a free monthly event showcasing open galleries, street vendors, live music, and food trucks. For unique handmade goods and local crafts, check out the Sidewalk Saturday Artisan Market held weekly from October to May. |
Sanibel Island, Florida
To escape those cooler winter temperatures, try the sunshine and palm trees of Florida’s west coast at Sanibel Island.
It’s loved for its long, shell-filled beaches, outdoor recreation, and agreeable weather in December. Temperatures are in the 70s°F (about 21–26°C) during the day and in the high 50s to low 60s°F (about 13–17°C) at night.
Sanibel must-dos:
- Visit the J.N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge: This sanctuary for migratory birds offers a peaceful, eco-friendly vibe free of high-rise buildings and full of preserved natural landscapes. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
- Rent a car and explore: You’re surrounded by many a gem when visiting Sanibel, so why not rent a car to explore them? Apart from the surrounding nature and aquatic preserves, you’re about an hour’s drive from Naples, Florida — which is one of the top destinations for a weekend trip in the USA.
National parks to visit in December
Calling all nature lovers! If you’re looking to escape the city streets this holiday season, consider exploring the USA’s national parks. We’ve listed three of our favorite natural wonder destinations.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
With its iconic geothermal pools, unique wildlife, and unbelievable landscapes, it’s no wonder Yellowstone National Park consistently ranks among the top 10 most visited parks in the USA.
We recommend it during December as it’s the off-season for most tourists, so you’ll get fewer crowds than in the summer months.
Yellowstone National Park must-dos:
- Hit the snowy slopes (while they last): During the winter months, Yellowstone transforms into a winter wonderland. Make sure to check out activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobile tours. Just make sure to sort out your USA travel insurance, first.
- Snap some phenomenal photos: Be sure to pack your camera or your phone in your winter jacket pocket as you explore the park, as its stunning landscapes are known as a top spot for photographers around the world. To share all of your incredible moments with friends and family back home, make sure to prepare for getting connected before you go.
- Check out the thermal areas: Yellowstone is known for its geyser basins, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles — and they’re especially jaw-dropping during the winter months. Old Faithful, the oldest geyser in the US, is a highlight, as are the Grand Prismatic Spring’s rainbow-colored waters.
| 💡Tip: For those who prefer minimal hiking and aren’t keen on braving Yellowstone’s tricky access, the best option is warm, guided snowcoach tours with optional short walks. |
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Just over a three-hour drive from Las Vegas and two and a half from Los Angeles lies Joshua Tree National Park.
Drawing visitors for its surreal landscapes, mystical energy, and musical history, this national park is one of the best US destinations in December for those who love nature and adventure.
Joshua Tree National Park must-dos:
- Discover the beautiful landscape: The dramatic rock formations, unique Joshua trees, and desert plants known only to this otherworldly park make it a favorite place to visit in December in the USA for a much-needed holiday break.
- Get lost in the stars: The park is free from light pollution, full of great views of the Milky Way, and attracts astrophotographers and stargazers to its expansive skies annually.
- Visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum: Named after the artist who created them, this museum hosts over 100 sculptures made from repurposed materials.
Enjoy internet connectivity on your trip to this city with Holafly’s eSIM for California.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Straight off of our best tourist destinations in the USA list is the Grand Canyon. It’s off-peak season here in December, which means cooler winter temperatures (in the 40s °F and 50s°F, or 4-10°C) and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hiking, photography, and spending more time in nature.
Grand Canyon must-dos:
- Hike to well-known lookout points: There’s a reason the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic and highly visited national parks in the USA. Its breathtaking views are well worth the hike to see them.
- Take a helicopter tour: The only thing better than seeing the Grand Canyon is seeing it from the skies. Opt for one of the many helicopter tours for unbeatable views (and photo ops).
- Makes waves with river rafting: Observe awe-inspiring rock formations up close as you drift down the Colorado River. Whether you want the intensity of a whitewater raft or the serenity or a riverboat, make sure to hit the water on your trip to the Grand Canyon.
Best family-friendly destinations
Create your December vacation for the whole family.
For the best places to travel in December with the family, we’re taking you coast-to-coast, from holiday markets in Orlando, Florida to the San Diego Bay parade in California.
Orlando, Florida
Home to Disney World, warm temperatures, and sunny skies, Orlando is a great place to take the family during the holidays.
As Disney World in Orlando takes on extra magic during the holiday season, it’s one of the best places to visit in the USA in December.
Disney World must-dos:
- Check out EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays: This festival celebrates “Holiday Kitchens,” offering holiday-inspired treats from all around the world. Try Christmas sweets, traditional Hanukkah plates, and Kwanzaa dishes. This is included in regular park admission.
- Olaf-themed scavenger hunt: Help the famous snowman find holiday traditions around the world. Scavenger hunt maps and stickers are $9.99 plus tax. Enjoy the holiday festivities and festive decorations as you make your way around.
- Watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom: See gingerbread displays, holiday lights, and New Year’s Fireworks in the happiest place on earth.
| Looking for a different type of festival? Check out these top USA festivals to get the party started in 2025. |
San Diego, California
California is known for its sunny, warm weather and San Diego is no exception. San Diego in December has temperatures averaging in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C), making it a warm winter escape.
San Diego must-dos:
- Check out the San Diego Bay Parade: Over 80 decorated boats enchant the waterfront with twinkling lights and a vibrant holiday spirit. You can find this nautical holiday display on two consecutive Sundays in mid-December, the 8th and the 15th for 2024.
- Hit up the December Nights Festival in Balboa Park: A free holiday festival with food, live music, and cultural performances. For more holiday fun, go see Seaport Village’s Christmas decor or pair the warm weather and ocean views with some winter wonderland activities at the Hotel del Coronado’s beachfront ice skating rink.
- Take to the skies in a hot air balloon: Take in views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling Southern California landscape, and luxurious local estates. This is especially fun to do around sunset.
| 💡Tip: If you’re there for Balboa Park’s December Nights, take advantage of the free shuttle service from Ash Street between 5th and 6th Avenues to the park. You can catch them on Friday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with the last shuttle to the park departing at 9:30 p.m. |
Stay connected on your trip to the USA with Holafly
So, what will it be? Festive lights, romantic nights, and holiday markets in New York City? Or, fun in the sun by the resort pool in Phoenix, Arizona?
Whatever you choose, we hope these December vacation destinations have inspired your itinerary, sparked your holiday spirit, and encouraged you to stay connected with Holafly as you travel.
Though there are many different holiday destinations and reasons to celebrate in December, the festive season is always about connection.
Add ease to your holiday travels as you visit these best places to visit in December in the USA and secure a connection before you go with the Holafly eSIM for the USA.
Offering affordable international data plans that keep you connected without roaming fees or contracts, easy installation, and instant activation – your holiday travels just got more convenient.
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Detroit native, foothills and lakes of North Carolina raised, Barcelona-based writer and creator. Sam lives and loves by the phrase: words create worlds. An international lifestyle matched with a background in psychology, business, and creative writing has allowed Sam to create content for a range of artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion and lifestyle brands across the globe. Sam's an avid water sports athlete with a passion for fashion, well-being, and adventure.
