As the holiday season approaches, many people start to think about planning their winter vacations. If you’re considering visiting Phoenix, Arizona, you might be wondering if December is a good time to go. Phoenix is known for its warm weather year-round, but December is one of the coolest months of the year in the city. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Phoenix in December and help you decide if it’s the right time for your trip.
The Weather in December
December is one of the coolest months of the year in Phoenix, with average highs in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22°C). While it’s still relatively warm compared to many other parts of the country, it’s a significant drop from the scorching temperatures that Phoenix is known for during the summer months. If you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather, December might be a good time to visit Phoenix, but if you’re looking for a warm beach vacation, you might want to consider a different destination.
Pros of Visiting Phoenix in December
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Less Crowded: Since it’s not peak tourist season, you’re likely to find fewer crowds and shorter lines at popular attractions.
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Lower Prices: With fewer tourists, you might be able to find better deals on accommodations, flights, and activities.
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Outdoor Activities: While it’s not as hot as the summer months, December is still a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golfing.
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Holiday Events: Phoenix has a lot of fun holiday events and festivals, including the Phoenix Festival of the Arts and the Arizona Renaissance Festival.
Cons of Visiting Phoenix in December
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Cooler Weather: While it’s still relatively warm, December can be a bit chilly for some visitors, especially those who are used to warmer weather.
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Some Attractions Closed: Some outdoor attractions and pools might be closed or have limited hours due to the cooler weather.
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Rain: Phoenix can experience some rain in December, which might affect your outdoor plans. (See Also: Worst Time To Visit Taiwan? Rainy Season Revealed)
Things to Do in Phoenix in December
Phoenix has a lot to offer in December, from outdoor activities to holiday events and festivals. Here are some things to do in Phoenix in December:
Outdoor Activities
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Hike Camelback Mountain: While it might be a bit cooler, December is still a great time to hike Camelback Mountain, one of Phoenix’s most popular hiking spots.
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Explore South Mountain Park: South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, and December is a great time to explore its trails and scenic views.
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Go Golfing: Phoenix has a lot of great golf courses, and December is a great time to hit the links.
Holiday Events and Festivals
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Phoenix Festival of the Arts: This annual festival features live music, food, and art from local and national artists.
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Arizona Renaissance Festival: This annual festival features jousting, comedy, and music, all set in a medieval-themed village.
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Phoenix Zoo Lights: The Phoenix Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over a million lights and festive decorations. (See Also: Least Expensive Time To Visit New Orleans – Budget Travel Tips)
Accommodations in Phoenix in December
December is a great time to visit Phoenix, and there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. Here are some options to consider:
Hotels
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The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort: This 5-star resort offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple pools.
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The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: This 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a spa, and multiple pools.
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The Westin Phoenix Downtown: This 4-star hotel offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool.
Vacation Rentals
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HomeAway: HomeAway offers a wide range of vacation rentals in Phoenix, from apartments to houses.
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Airbnb: Airbnb offers a variety of unique vacation rentals in Phoenix, from modern apartments to historic homes.
Conclusion
December can be a great time to visit Phoenix, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. While it might be a bit cooler than the summer months, Phoenix is still a great destination for those looking to escape the cold winter weather. With plenty of accommodations to choose from and a wide range of things to do, Phoenix is a great place to visit in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Phoenix?
Yes, December can be a great time to visit Phoenix, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. (See Also: What Is the Best Time to Visit Gujarat – Perfect Weather Awaits)
What is the weather like in Phoenix in December?
December is one of the coolest months of the year in Phoenix, with average highs in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22°C).
Are there any holiday events in Phoenix in December?
Yes, Phoenix has a lot of fun holiday events and festivals in December, including the Phoenix Festival of the Arts and the Arizona Renaissance Festival.
Can I still enjoy outdoor activities in Phoenix in December?
Yes, December is still a great time to enjoy outdoor activities in Phoenix, such as hiking, biking, and golfing.
Are there any good vacation rentals in Phoenix?
Yes, there are plenty of great vacation rentals in Phoenix, from apartments to houses, available through websites like HomeAway and Airbnb.