Best Places to Visit in December: 9 US Getaways

December in the USA has something for everyone, from glowing Christmas towns and snowy mountains to sunny beaches. Some of the best places to visit in December include Leavenworth, New York City, Nashville, Aspen, Williamsburg, Solvang, Siesta Key, Waikiki, and North Pole, Alaska.

Quick Answer:

For Christmas charm, head to Leavenworth or Solvang; for famous holiday sights, choose New York City. Nashville offers family-friendly festivities, Aspen is great for skiing, and Siesta Key and Waikiki are better for milder weather. North Pole, Alaska, is a choice for those who want a snowy Christmas and can handle the cold.

9 Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

1. Leavenworth, Washington — A Bavarian Christmas Town

Leavenworth’s alpine-style buildings and twinkling lights make the town feel like a Christmas village. Browse the festive shops, enjoy the winter scenery, or try nearby snowshoe trails when conditions are right.

Best for: Christmas lights and winter scenery
Time needed: 2–3 days
Approx. temperature: 20–35°F
Travel tip: Christmastown events run November 27–December 24, 2026, and the lights continue into February. Check the official guide.

2. New York City, New York — Iconic Holiday Attractions

New York City goes all out for the holidays, with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, decorated Fifth Avenue windows, ice skating, and Broadway shows. The festive atmosphere is worth experiencing, but hotel rates and attraction crowds rise as Christmas approaches.

Best for: Christmas lights, shopping, and theatre
Time needed: 3–4 days
Approx. temperature: 34–44°F
Travel tip: The tree-lighting is scheduled for December 2, 2026, and the Rockettes’ show runs into January 2027. Check NYC holiday updates.

3. Nashville, Tennessee — An Indoor Christmas Wonderland

Gaylord Opryland Resort gets into the holiday spirit with sparkling displays, ice sculptures, seasonal shows, and activities for families. Its indoor attractions are especially handy when cold or rainy weather makes spending the day outside less appealing.

Best for: Families and festive entertainment
Time needed: 2–3 days
Approx. temperature: 32–52°F
Travel tip: A Country Christmas runs November 6, 2026–January 2, 2027, with ICE! featuring Home Alone. See the official resort details.

4. Aspen, Colorado — Skiing and Mountain Scenery

Aspen draws winter visitors with its ski slopes, snow-covered peaks, and lively après-ski scene. It makes a memorable mountain getaway, although accommodation can be expensive and early-season snow conditions vary.

Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, and mountain views
Time needed: 3–4 days
Approx. temperature: 7–30°F
Altitude tip: Aspen sits around 7,900 feet above sea level. Take it easy on arrival, drink plenty of water, and dress in layers. Check Aspen Snowmass lift details.

5. Williamsburg, Virginia — A Historic Christmas

Williamsburg’s colonial streets, traditional decorations, and candlelit events give the holiday season an old-fashioned feel. Seasonal music and special programs bring its historic district to life, making it a good choice for families and history lovers.

Best for: History, families, and holiday traditions
Time needed: 2–3 days
Approx. temperature: 35–55°F
Travel tip: Grand Illumination celebrations are scheduled for December 5, 12, and 19, 2026. Check the official event page.

6. Solvang, California — Danish Christmas Traditions

Solvang’s Danish-style buildings, bakeries, and decorated streets give this California town a distinctly European feel. During Julefest, you’ll find seasonal music, shopping, and community celebrations without the deep winter cold found in northern destinations.

Best for: Small-town charm and holiday events
Time needed: 1–2 days
Approx. temperature: 37–64°F
Travel tip: Julefest is scheduled for November 27, 2026–January 3, 2027. Check the official guide for event dates.

7. Siesta Key, Florida — A Milder Beach Getaway

Siesta Key is known for its white quartz sand, easy coastal walks, and laid-back Gulf Coast atmosphere. December is pleasant for beach strolls and outdoor dining, although the water may feel too cool for a comfortable swim.

Best for: Beaches and relaxed stays
Time needed: 2–3 days
Approx. temperature: 53–75°F
Travel tip: Early December can be quieter than Christmas week. Check the Sarasota-area visitor guide for local beach information.

8. Waikiki, Oahu, Hawaii — Tropical Weather and Holiday Lights

Waikiki combines warm weather and ocean views with easy access to Honolulu’s restaurants and attractions. Honolulu City Lights adds a festive touch, while winter surf on Oahu’s North Shore can be dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.

Best for: Beaches, tropical scenery, and seasonal events
Time needed: 4–5 days
Approx. temperature: 69–82°F
Travel tip: Honolulu City Lights opens December 5, 2026. Check the event FAQ and follow local ocean-safety warnings.

9. North Pole, Alaska — A Real Winter Christmas

North Pole lives up to its name with Christmas-themed streets and Santa Claus House, where visitors can shop and meet Santa. December brings bitter cold and very little daylight, so plan outdoor activities carefully and allow time to warm up indoors.

Best for: Christmas-themed travel and snowy scenery
Time needed: 1–2 days
Approx. temperature: −15 to 5°F
Travel tip: Around the winter solstice, daylight lasts only a few hours. Dress for severe cold and check Santa Claus House hours.

How to Choose Your December Destination

Choose Leavenworth or New York for holiday lights, Aspen for skiing, and Nashville for indoor festivities. Solvang and Williamsburg suit history lovers, while Siesta Key and Waikiki are better choices for milder weather.

Getting Around and Where to Stay

Public transit works well in New York City. A rental car is useful in Solvang and Siesta Key, while mountain destinations may require winter-driving preparation. Book early for Christmas week.

What to Pack for December

Pack insulated layers and waterproof shoes for colder destinations. Aspen needs proper winter gear; Hawaii and Florida call for lighter clothes, sun protection, and a jacket for cooler evenings.

FAQs

Where is warmest in December?

Waikiki is a strong option for warm coastal weather, while Siesta Key offers a milder Gulf Coast escape.

Which destinations feel most like Christmas?

Leavenworth, Solvang, Williamsburg, and New York offer memorable holiday decorations and seasonal traditions.

Is December a good time to ski in Colorado?

Yes, but the terrain available depends on snow and resort operations. Check current conditions before booking.

Conclusion

December offers everything from Christmas villages and ski slopes to historic celebrations and beach escapes. Choose the experience that suits you best, then check event dates and local conditions before booking.

Elaine Glusac

Mark Johanson is an experienced American travel journalist specializing in destinations, adventure, and travel. He has written for major publications and co-authored numerous Lonely Planet travel guides covering destinations worldwide.

Best Places to Visit in December in the USA: 9 Holiday Getaways