As the winter season approaches, many of us start thinking about where to spend our holidays. December is a great time to explore new destinations, enjoy festive atmosphere, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. The United States offers a diverse range of exciting places to visit in December, each with its unique charm and attractions. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best places to visit in the USA in December, helping you plan an unforgettable winter getaway.
Overview
From snow-covered mountains to sun-kissed beaches, the USA has something for everyone in December. Whether you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing vacation, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks include popular destinations like New York City, Orlando, and Lake Tahoe, as well as some hidden gems like Asheville, North Carolina, and Leavenworth, Washington. We’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit in December in the USA, highlighting the top attractions, events, and activities to enjoy in each location.
What to Expect
In this article, you’ll discover the top destinations in the USA to visit in December, including:
- Festive cities with holiday markets, parades, and decorations
- Winter wonderlands with snow-covered landscapes and outdoor activities
- Beach towns with warm weather and festive atmosphere
- Mountain resorts with skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports
- Unique events and festivals that take place only in December
So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive into the best places to visit in the USA in December!
The Best Places to Visit in December in the USA
December is a great time to explore the United States, with many exciting destinations offering festive atmosphere, winter sports, and holiday celebrations. From snow-covered mountains to sun-kissed beaches, here are some of the best places to visit in December in the USA:
New York City, New York
New York City is a winter wonderland in December, with iconic attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating rinks, and festive window displays. Don’t miss the:
- Bryant Park Winter Village, featuring over 150 holiday market vendors
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes
- New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square
Enjoy the city’s holiday lights and decorations, and take in a Broadway show or visit iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a charming winter destination, with a festive atmosphere and plenty of holiday events. Visit the:
- Biltmore Estate, decorated with thousands of lights and decorations
- Winterfest, featuring ice skating, live music, and holiday activities
- Asheville Holiday Parade, with floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus
Explore the River Arts District, visit the North Carolina Arboretum, and enjoy the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Ecuador)
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a winter sports paradise, with world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Visit the:
- Squaw Valley Ski Resort, hosting the Tahoe City Solstice Festival
- Heavenly Mountain Resort, offering stunning views of the lake
- Tahoe City, with its festive atmosphere and holiday events
Take a scenic drive around the lake, enjoy water sports, or simply relax in a cozy cabin or resort.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a great destination for a warm winter getaway, with plenty of theme parks and attractions. Visit the:
- Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
- Universal Orlando Resort, with its festive decorations and holiday events
- SeaWorld Orlando, hosting the SeaWorld Christmas Celebration
Enjoy the city’s many water parks, take an airboat tour, or visit the Kennedy Space Center.
San Diego, California
San Diego is a great winter destination, with mild weather and plenty of outdoor activities. Visit the:
- San Diego Zoo, featuring the Jungle Bells celebration
- Balboa Park, with its December Nights festival and holiday lights
- La Jolla Cove, for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the beach
Take a harbor cruise, visit the USS Midway Museum, or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, like the Gaslamp Quarter.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is a great destination for music lovers, with a festive atmosphere and plenty of holiday events. Visit the:
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, featuring holiday exhibits
- Ryman Auditorium, hosting the Amy Grant and Vince Gill Christmas show
- Broadway, with its honky-tonk bars and live music venues
Take a tour of the city’s iconic music venues, visit the Parthenon, or explore the 12 South neighborhood. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Norway Summer)
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is a tropical winter destination, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. Visit the:
- Waikiki Beach, for surfing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing
- Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial, for a historic visit
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, for snorkeling and swimming
Take a helicopter tour, visit the Diamond Head State Monument, or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, like Chinatown.
These are just a few of the best places to visit in December in the USA. Each destination offers a unique winter experience, with plenty of holiday cheer and exciting activities.
Conclusion
December is a great time to explore the United States, with various destinations offering unique winter experiences. From festive atmosphere to winter sports, and from warm weather to snow-covered landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ve explored the best places to visit in December in the USA. We started with the winter wonderland of Lake Tahoe, California, and Nevada, perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Next, we headed to New Orleans, Louisiana, to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and festive celebrations during Christmas.
We also discovered the charm of Asheville, North Carolina, with its holiday markets, decorations, and winter activities. The warm weather of Miami, Florida, was another highlight, offering a tropical escape from the cold winter. Additionally, we visited the snowy landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, ideal for winter sports and breathtaking scenery.
Last but not least, we explored the festive atmosphere of New York City, with its iconic Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and holiday lights. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, catering to different interests and preferences.
In conclusion, whether you’re looking for winter sports, festive atmosphere, or a warm winter escape, the USA has plenty of amazing destinations to visit in December. So, start planning your winter getaway and make the most of this holiday season! (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Shenzhen)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best winter destination in the USA for Christmas celebrations?
New York City is one of the best winter destinations in the USA for Christmas celebrations. The city offers a magical atmosphere during the holiday season, with iconic decorations, festive markets, and ice skating rinks. You can visit the Rockefeller Center to see the giant Christmas tree, take a stroll through the festively decorated streets of Manhattan, and enjoy the holiday window displays of iconic department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Which city in the USA has the best New Year’s Eve celebrations?
New Orleans is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, and its New Year’s Eve celebrations are no exception. The city hosts a massive party in the French Quarter, with live music, fireworks, and champagne toasts at midnight. You can also visit the famous Bourbon Street, which is closed to traffic and filled with revelers, or take a stroll along the Mississippi River to watch the fireworks display.
What is the best place to visit in December for warm weather in the USA?
Honolulu, Hawaii is the best place to visit in December for warm weather in the USA. With average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 30°C), Honolulu offers a tropical escape from the cold winter weather in other parts of the country. You can enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, snorkeling, and hiking, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches of Waikiki and Oahu.
Which national park is best to visit in December in the USA?
Zion National Park in Utah is a great destination to visit in December. The park is less crowded compared to the peak summer months, and the cooler weather makes it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. You can explore the scenic trails, take in the breathtaking views of the canyon, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the surrounding town of Springdale.
What is the best place to visit in December for skiing in the USA?
Breckenridge, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in December for skiing in the USA. The town offers over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, with trails for all skill levels. The snow conditions are usually excellent in December, and the town has a lively atmosphere with festive events, live music, and holiday decorations. You can also enjoy other winter activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides.