As the winter season approaches, many of us start thinking about where to go for a perfect winter vacation. The United States offers a diverse range of exciting destinations that are perfect for a December getaway. From festive cities to winter wonderlands, there’s something for everyone in the US. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in the United States in December, taking into account the weather, events, and activities that make each destination special during this time of the year.
Overview of the Best Places to Visit in December
December is a great time to visit the US, with many cities and towns offering unique winter experiences. Whether you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, outdoor winter activities, or a warm winter escape, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the snow-covered mountains of Colorado to the sun-kissed beaches of Florida, and from the festive markets of New York City to the holiday lights of Austin, each destination has its own charm and attractions.
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What to Expect in December
In December, the US is in the midst of winter, with cold temperatures and snowfall in many parts of the country. However, some regions, such as the southern states, offer mild winter weather, making them ideal for a warm winter getaway. Additionally, many cities and towns host festive events, parades, and markets, adding to the holiday cheer. In this article, we’ll highlight the top destinations in the US that offer a unique and unforgettable experience in December.
Best Places to Visit in the United States in December
December is a great time to visit the United States, with many exciting events, festivals, and holiday celebrations taking place across the country. From winter wonderlands to sunny escapes, here are some of the best places to visit in the United States in December:
New York City, New York
New York City is a magical place to visit in December, with iconic holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and festive decorations adorning the streets. Be sure to visit:
- Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree lighting ceremony
- The Bryant Park Winter Village for ice skating and holiday shopping
- The Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes
Orlando, Florida
Escape the cold and head to Orlando, Florida, where you can enjoy warm weather and festive fun at:
- Walt Disney World’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
- Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal’s Holiday Celebration
- SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a unique and exciting destination in December, with:
- Reveillon dinners, a Creole holiday tradition
- Celebrations in the French Quarter, including caroling and festive decorations
- The New Orleans Bowl, a college football game
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is a winter wonderland in December, with: (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Moscow At Night)
- The Biltmore Estate’s Winter Festival of Flowers
- The Omni Grove Park Inn’s National Gingerbread House Competition
- Skiing and snowboarding at Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
San Diego, California
San Diego is a great destination in December if you’re looking for:
- Mild winter weather, with average highs in the mid-60s
- The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, a holiday boat parade
- La Jolla’s Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-themed town that transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with:
- Over half a million lights and decorations
- Christmas markets and holiday shopping
- Ice skating and snowshoeing
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee, is a great place to visit in December, with:
- The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s Deck the Hall exhibit
- The Nashville Symphony’s Holiday Pops concert
- The Gaylord Opryland Resort’s A Country Christmas celebration
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a great destination in December, with:
- The Ethel M Chocolate Factory’s cactus garden holiday lights display
- The Fountains of Bellagio’s holiday-themed show
- New Year’s Eve celebrations on the Strip
No matter where you choose to visit in the United States in December, you’re sure to find festive fun and holiday cheer!
| Destination | Must-see Attractions |
|---|---|
| New York City | Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park Winter Village, Radio City Christmas Spectacular |
| Orlando | Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Universal’s Holiday Celebration, SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration |
| New Orleans | Reveillon dinners, French Quarter celebrations, New Orleans Bowl |
| Asheville | Biltmore Estate’s Winter Festival of Flowers, Omni Grove Park Inn’s National Gingerbread House Competition, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort |
| San Diego | San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, La Jolla’s Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival, mild winter weather |
| Leavenworth | Christmas markets, ice skating, snowshoeing |
| Nashville | Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s Deck the Hall exhibit, Nashville Symphony’s Holiday Pops concert, Gaylord Opryland Resort’s A Country Christmas celebration |
| Las Vegas | Ethel M Chocolate Factory’s cactus garden holiday lights display, Fountains of Bellagio’s holiday-themed show, New Year’s Eve celebrations |
Remember to plan ahead and book your accommodations and attractions early, as December is a popular time to visit these destinations! (See Also: Best Place To Visit In The Bay Area)
Conclusion
As the winter season approaches, the United States transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a diverse range of exciting destinations to visit in December. From the snow-capped mountains of Colorado to the sun-kissed beaches of Florida, and from the festive atmosphere of New York City to the natural wonders of Arizona, there’s something for everyone in the US.
In this article, we explored the best places to visit in the United States in December, highlighting the unique attractions and experiences each destination has to offer. We discovered the magic of Aspen, Colorado, with its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. We also delved into the festive charm of New York City, with its iconic Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and holiday lights.
We ventured to the sun-soaked state of Florida, where we found warm weather, beautiful beaches, and thrilling theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios. We marveled at the breathtaking natural beauty of Arizona, with its majestic Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Sedona red rocks. And, we explored the vibrant city of New Orleans, with its rich history, jazz music, and mouth-watering Creole cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a winter sports adventure, a festive holiday getaway, or a warm winter escape, the United States has a plethora of amazing destinations to choose from in December. So, pack your bags, grab your coat (or sunscreen!), and get ready to experience the best of America this winter season.
We hope this article has inspired you to plan your next trip to the United States in December and discover the magic of these incredible destinations for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in the United States in December
What are the best winter destinations in the United States?
Some of the best winter destinations in the United States include Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada; Aspen, Colorado; Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Breckenridge, Colorado; and Stowe, Vermont. These destinations offer excellent skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports opportunities, as well as festive atmosphere and holiday events.
Are there any warm winter destinations in the United States?
Yes, there are several warm winter destinations in the United States. Some popular options include Honolulu, Hawaii; Miami, Florida; Key West, Florida; Sanibel Island, Florida; and Palm Springs, California. These destinations offer mild winter weather, with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 80s (15°C to 30°C), making them ideal for escaping cold winter weather. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Northern Spain)
What are some popular holiday events and festivals in the United States in December?
Some popular holiday events and festivals in the United States in December include the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting in New York City; the National Christmas Tree lighting in Washington, D.C.; the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade in California; the Austin Trail of Lights in Texas; and the Winter Festival of Lights in Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada. These events offer festive atmosphere, holiday markets, and fun activities for visitors of all ages.
What are some budget-friendly winter destinations in the United States?
Some budget-friendly winter destinations in the United States include Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Branson, Missouri; Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. These destinations offer affordable accommodations, dining options, and winter activities, making them ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.
What are some romantic winter getaways in the United States?
Some romantic winter getaways in the United States include the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania; the Finger Lakes region, New York; the Green Mountains, Vermont; and the Napa Valley, California. These destinations offer cozy bed and breakfasts, luxurious resorts, and scenic winter landscapes, making them ideal for couples looking for a romantic winter escape.
