As the winter season approaches, many of us start thinking about where to escape to for a festive and fun getaway. December is a great time to explore new destinations, enjoy winter activities, and experience the holiday magic. With so many amazing places to visit in the United States, it can be overwhelming to decide on the perfect spot. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you discover the best places to visit in the US in December.
Overview
From snow-covered mountains to sun-kissed beaches, the US offers a diverse range of destinations that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, a festive atmosphere, or a warm retreat from the cold, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to the top destinations in the US that are perfect for a December visit.
What to Expect
In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of the best places to visit in the US in December, including popular cities, national parks, and hidden gems. We’ll provide you with an overview of each destination, highlighting the top attractions, activities, and events that make them special during the winter season. From skiing and snowboarding to festive markets and holiday lights, we’ll help you plan an unforgettable trip to the US in December.
Best Places to Visit in the US in December
December is a great time to visit the United States, with many exciting events and activities taking place during the holiday season. From festive lights and decorations to winter sports and holiday markets, there’s something for everyone in the US in December. Here are some of the best places to visit in the US in December:
New York City, New York
New York City is a must-visit destination in December, with its iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center, festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, and the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. Don’t miss the ice skating rinks at Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center, and the holiday markets at Union Square and Columbus Circle.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a great destination for families in December, with many theme parks and resorts offering special holiday events and activities. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios offer Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, while Universal Orlando Resort features the Universal’s Holiday Celebration. Don’t miss the festive decorations and lights at the Gaylord Palms Resort.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a unique and exciting destination in December, with its own special brand of holiday cheer. The city’s famous French Quarter is decorated with festive lights and decorations, and the annual Celebration in the Oaks takes place in City Park, featuring over a million twinkling lights. Don’t miss the holiday concerts and performances at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Center.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a charming winter wonderland in December, with its picturesque downtown area decorated with festive lights and decorations. The Biltmore Estate, a grand chateau-style mansion, offers a Candlelight Christmas Evenings event, featuring candlelight tours, holiday decorations, and live music. Don’t miss the Winterfest celebration at the Omni Grove Park Inn, featuring an ice skating rink, holiday market, and festive decorations. (See Also: What’S The Best Place To Visit In Arizona)
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a great destination in December, with its mild winter weather and many festive events and activities. The Union Square holiday ice rink is a popular attraction, and the San Francisco Zoo offers a ZooLights event, featuring festive lights and decorations. Don’t miss the holiday markets at the Ferry Building Marketplace and the Pier 39 Winter Fest.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a small town in the Pacific Northwest that transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with over half a million lights and decorations adorning the buildings and streets. The town offers a range of festive events and activities, including a Christmas lighting ceremony, holiday concerts, and a festive market.
Best Ski Resorts in the US in December
December is a great time to hit the slopes in the US, with many top-notch ski resorts offering excellent snow conditions and festive atmosphere. Here are some of the best ski resorts in the US in December:
| Resort | Location | Snowfall in December (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Vail | Colorado | 45 |
| Breckenridge | Colorado | 40 |
| Aspen | Colorado | 35 |
| Park City | Utah | 30 |
| Jackson Hole | Wyoming | 25 |
These resorts offer a range of festive events and activities, including holiday concerts, fireworks displays, and festive decorations. Don’t miss the opportunity to ski or snowboard in some of the best snow conditions in the country.
Best Christmas Markets in the US in December
December is a great time to visit Christmas markets in the US, with many cities and towns offering festive markets featuring holiday gifts, decorations, and food. Here are some of the best Christmas markets in the US in December:
- Dresden-style Christmas Market in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Christkindlmarket in Chicago, Illinois
- Union Square Holiday Market in San Francisco, California
- Holiday Market at the National Harbor in Washington, D.C.
- Denver Christkindl Market in Denver, Colorado
These markets offer a range of festive goods, including handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and traditional German-style food and drink. Don’t miss the opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and find unique gifts for your loved ones.
In conclusion, December is a great time to visit the US, with many exciting events and activities taking place during the holiday season. From festive lights and decorations to winter sports and holiday markets, there’s something for everyone in the US in December. So pack your bags, grab your coat, and get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season in the US! (See Also: Where Is The Best Place To Visit In Albania)
Conclusion
December is a great time to explore the United States, with a wide range of exciting destinations to visit. From festive holiday markets to winter wonderlands, each of the places mentioned in this article offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
In this article, we discussed the best places to visit in the US in December, including New York City, Orlando, Lake Tahoe, Austin, and New Orleans. We highlighted the top attractions and activities to enjoy in each destination, from ice skating in Central Park to enjoying the festive atmosphere in the French Quarter.
We also touched on the importance of considering the weather and crowd levels when planning your trip, as well as the various events and festivals that take place in each location during the month of December.
Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, a festive holiday market, or a warm winter getaway, there’s something for everyone in the US in December. By considering the options outlined in this article, you can plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to the best place to visit in the US in December.
So why wait? Start planning your December getaway today and make the most of the holiday season in the United States!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best winter destinations in the US in December?
In December, some of the best winter destinations in the US include Aspen, Colorado, for skiing and snowboarding; Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada, for a winter wonderland experience; and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for a festive atmosphere and snow-covered landscapes. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Tokyo During Spring)
Are there any warm winter destinations in the US in December?
Yes, there are several warm winter destinations in the US in December. Some popular options include Hawaii, Florida, and Arizona. You can visit Honolulu, Hawaii, for a tropical Christmas; Key West, Florida, for a warm winter getaway; or Phoenix, Arizona, for a mild winter climate.
What are the best Christmas markets in the US in December?
Some of the best Christmas markets in the US in December can be found in Chicago, Illinois, at the Christkindlmarket; in New York City, New York, at the Bryant Park Winter Village; and in Denver, Colorado, at the Christkindl Market. These markets offer a festive atmosphere, holiday shopping, and traditional food and drinks.
What are the best places to see Christmas lights in the US in December?
Some of the best places to see Christmas lights in the US in December include the Rockefeller Center in New York City, New York; the ZooLights at the Houston Zoo in Texas; and the Winter Festival of Lights in Portland, Oregon. These destinations offer stunning light displays, festive atmosphere, and holiday cheer.
Are there any budget-friendly winter destinations in the US in December?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly winter destinations in the US in December. Some affordable options include Branson, Missouri, for a festive atmosphere and outdoor activities; Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for a winter wonderland experience; and Leavenworth, Washington, for a Bavarian-themed Christmas celebration. These destinations offer a range of accommodations and activities at an affordable price.