December In The USA: 12 Perfect Places To Visit As Recommended By Locals

December in the USA is a really fun time to be in the country. It is a time when everyone is looking forward to the holidays, pulling out their decorations and prepping for the upcoming festivities.

You won’t quite get a white Christmas in all parts of the country. You will however see the festive cheer as Christmas in the USA is celebrated with a lot of pomp! So think of Christmas markets, Christmas trees, loads of decorations and lights, shopping etc.

There are loads of places to spend December in the USA. Each of them have their own draw. Not everything revolves around Christmas though. There are a number of national parks that are perfect at this time of the year, warmer destinations that you can head to and enjoy the sun or indulge in some winter sports.

Yes! The USA is huge and the diverse terrain gives rise to a multitude of opportunities! That’s why we got in touch with locals and travel experts. The list contains some of the best places to spend December in the USA. It also includes insider tips on the places to stay and things to do in each location! You will find some cool luxury airbnbs with epic electric fireplaces on this list. When the weather is crazy, there is nothing better than a warm fireplace to cuddle in from off. Am I right?

Don’t forget to check out our series on the perfect spots to visit in the USA by month. You can use the links below to access them easily.

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1. Key West, Florida

Florida Keys is an amazing place to spend December in the USA.

Location: If you’re looking for a fantastic place to visit in December in the USA, look no further than Key West, Florida!

Getting There: This warm-weather spot sits at the end of the Florida Keys and is about a 3-hour drive (or so) from Miami. To reach the island, you can drive across US Route 1 making stops along the way in Key Largo, Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park, and more.

Once in Key West, however, be prepared for gorgeous beaches, parties on Duval Street, and some incredible day trips like Dry Tortugas National Park.

Where To Stay: For those looking to stay in Key West, you will find plenty of options, from the Southwinds Motel (budget) to the Opal Key Resort & Marina (luxury). Do book ahead, however, as there are many tourists in Key West in December!

The weather sits in the mid-70s throughout the day, and the water is still warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. However, December is an excellent time to partake in some of the seasonal festivities like the I Love Stock Island festival, the annual Lighted Boat Parade, and a Holiday Historic Inn tour.

If you stick around until New Year’s Eve, you can even head to the well-known bar Sloppy Joe’s where you can see the lowering of the conch shell at midnight.

Key West is a fantastic option for a December in the USA, especially if you want to combine partying with warm weather!

By Megan From Megan & Aram

2. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is one of the nicest warm destinations to spend December in the USA.

Location: Oahu, Hawaii

Getting there: Fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, also known as Honolulu International Airport. While shuttle services are available, renting a car is highly recommended for optimal exploring.

Where to stay: Staying in Waikiki gives you a central location as well as plenty of hotels to choose from. The Royal Hawaiian and Moana Surfrider are great choices for your holiday.

Hawaii’s island of Oahu is an incredible place to visit in the month of December with its warm temperatures, stunning beaches, lush gardens, and plenty of festive activities.

Many visitors flock straight to Honolulu’s Waikiki Beach, which is worthy of its popularity. Its long stretch of soft sand is lined by plenty of beautiful hotels, tasty restaurants, and local shops for your souvenirs and gift shopping.

Honolulu is also a great place to partake in holiday fun, like the Christmas Boat Parade, New Year’s Eve fireworks by the Hilton Hawaiian Village, and Winter Wonderland drive-thru light show at Aloha Stadium.

With all its beauty, visitors would be remiss not to take the time to explore the rest of the island as well. On the windward side are the white sand beaches of Kailua and Lanikai which are the perfect places to watch the sunrises.

Ho’omaluhia Gardens are filled with the greenery and the majesty of the Ko’olau mountains. Kualoa Ranch is always fun to visit with its tours of Jurassic Park filming locations and incredible views.

In the month of December, Oahu’s North shore hosts amazing surf competitions. The water is not safe for swimming at this time of year, but it’s an incredible time to watch the competitions at Bonzai Pipeline and Hale’iwa Ali’I Beach Park throughout several days of the month.

If a sunny, tropical holiday is your idea of a winter wonderland, Oahu is the perfect choice for a to spend December in the USA.

Note: Don’t forget t check out the Oahu: Go City all inclusive pass which includes over 40+ experiences.

By Sierra From Island And Alpine

3. Catalina island, California

Catalina island is the perfect place to spend December in the USA.

Location: Avalon, Catalina Island in California.

Getting There: to get to Avalon Catalina Island, it is either by sea or air from Long Beach mainland Port. You have the choice to rent a helicopter or a passenger ferry.

Where To Stay: You should stay in the Pavilion hotel. It is the best-rated hotel on the island, and it is close to many tourist attractions, such as Avalon Bay, Step beach, restaurants, shopping areas, and many more.

December is the best time to visit Avalon, Santa Catalina Island. It is the time of year when it is less crowded, which gives you the opportunity to explore the island without worrying about being in line.

For starters, you should try the zipLine ECO Tour. The tour starts at 600 feet above Descanso Beach Club, and then you will zigzag across canyons to enjoy a beautiful view of the ocean and Avalon city.

Another way to experience a breathtaking view of Avalon is by trying parasailing. It is a tour that you are being pushed by a motorboat across Avalon Bay. You can choose to keep your feet in the water while enjoying the breeze of the ocean. I would recommend you to do it.

If you are heading here for the new year celebrations at the end of December, you should attend the annual New Year’s Eve Gala Celebration in the Casino Ballroom. You do not want to miss the open buffet dinner, dessert, music, and dancing. The celebrations themselves make it a great place to spend December in the USA.

By Ossama From Awesome Traveler

4. San Diego, California

San Diego is the perfect city to spend December in the USA.

Location: San Diego, California

Getting There: Fly into San Diego International Airport, which will put you right in the heart of the city.

Where To Stay: Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is located right on the harbor and will allow you to enjoy beautiful waterfront views.

Looking for a warm winter instead of a white winter? If so, consider vacationing in sunny San Diego this December.

Touted as America’s finest city, San Diego is well-known for its amazing weather year-round and plethora of things to do! Whether you want to sit back and relax on the beach or opt for something more active, there’s something for everyone.

One of the most popular activities is surfing San Diego’s incredible waves. With over 70 miles of coastline, there’s no shortage of great spots to catch some waves.

Even if you’re completely new to surfing, don’t worry – there are lots of surf breaks in San Diego for beginners!

If you aren’t into water sports then you can just lay back and catch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs.

For a taste of delicious European food, head to Little Italy. This adorable neighborhood in downtown San Diego is full of great restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops. You’ll also find some hidden art galleries here!

Lastly, if you’re looking to celebrate the holiday season, head to Balboa Park. Every year, they host their annual December Nights event, where the park comes alive with twinkling lights and holiday performances!

You can see why its a great place to spend December in the USA.

All in all, if you’re looking to escape the cold and trade your winter coats for flip-flops and swimsuits, head to sunny San Diego!

Note: Don’t forget to check out the hop on and hop off tours. The San Diego Go city pass will help you save money on over 55 different attractions. It is worth taking at a look at it too!

Contributed By Kristin Lee of Global Travel Escapades

5. Bonners Ferry, Idaho

Bonners Ferry is a rather interesting place to spend December in the USA.

Location: Bonners Ferry is located in Boundary County in North Idaho.

Getting there: The closest airport is Spokane International Airport. It takes about two hours to reach Bonners Ferry from the airport.

Where to stay: There are a couple of motels, lodges and hotels in Bonners Ferry. The Kootenai River Inn Casino & Spa is a popular stay in the centre of the town.

In December in the USA, Bonners Ferry turns into a magical snow-covered town. Surrounded by nature, parks and wildlife, the town has lots to offer on its own land but is also close to several other interesting destinations.

Bonners Ferry is a hub for outdoor activities, even in December. With the cold weather and likely snow, you’ll want to dress warm with appropriate shoes for snow. One of the closest and most beautiful outdoor visit at that time of the year is the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. The walk in the refuge is quite easy and takes you through wide pieces of land and (most likely frozen) waterfalls.

Bonners Ferry is also located on one of the 50 national scenic byways in December in the USA, the International Selkirk Loop. The drive usually takes 4 to 5 days and takes you to Washington State, and British Columbia in Canada. You can drive part of it from Bonners Ferry during your stay.

Of course, because of the amount of snow that falls on the town every December, skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in the area. Snowshoeing can be done in and around Bonners Ferry while the best ski resort is located in Schweitzer, about 30 minutes from the town.

By Mary from Be Right Back

6. Austin, Texas

Austin is a cool city to spend December in the USA.

Location: Austin, Texas

Getting there: Fly into Austin International Airport which is within a half hour of downtown. If you are coming from another city nearby, Austin is about 3 hours from both Dallas and Houston. A rental car is highly recommended.

Where to stay: The Fairmont Austin is a beautiful and modern hotel located centrally downton with an upscale vibe.

If you are looking to spend December in the USA in a warm climate with plenty of things to do, Austin, Texas is a great choice! Austin might not be a snowy winter wonderland, but the number of festive activities, live music, and tasty food more than makes up for it!

The pleasant weather makes December the perfect month for outdoor activities. Hiking along the Barton Greenbelt will reward you with waterfalls and great views. Kayaking Lady Bird Lake allows you to view the city skyline from the water. Ice skating on the plaza is also available for a more wintery activity.

For those looking for holiday activities, the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park, the large Christmas tree at the Capitol Building, and the gingerbread house village at the Four Seasons will all leave you with sweet holiday memories.

Mozart’s Coffee Roasters offers an incredible holiday light show each evening, with the opportunity to partake in baked goods and hot cocoa.

If there is anything Austin does well, it is their festivals! Celebrate the Capital City Black Film Festival at the beginning of the month and the Austin Music Video Festival just a couple of weeks later.

A trip to Austin isn’t complete without BBQ. Check out Terry Black’s or take a day trip to Hill Country for Salt Lick. Austinites are also huge breakfast taco fans. Veracruz All Natural made Food Network’s Top 5 list for theirs so don’t miss a stop there!

Note: You can also choose to head out on an electric bike sightseeing tour that will take you around the city.

By Sierra From Very Truly Texas

7. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is a fun place to spend December in the USA.

Location: Woodstock is a shire town of Windsor County in Vermont

Getting There: Woodstock is a 15-minute drive from Vermont Interstate 89. Take Exit 1 to Route 4 West. Follow Route 4 West directly into town. If you’re flying, the closest airport is Burlington International (BTV). Approximately 90-minutes from Woodstock.

Where to stay: Woodstock Inn & Resort is a huge hotel that offers a wide variety of room options. It’s also in a great location and we can explore Woodstock without a car.

If you are looking for an amazing destination to visit in the US in December, you should add Woodstock to your bucket list. Visiting Woodstock is one of the best things to do in Vermont in winter as it is one of the most beautiful towns in the country, and for a reason. This small and underrated town in Vermont carries a lot of history.

One of the best things to do is to stroll down the main street and just get lost admiring the stunning array of buildings of 18^th and 19th-century architectural styles.

Another thing you may want to do is to visit the iconic covered bridges, and a few of the most beautiful in Vermont are located in the Woodstock areas, such as the Middle Covered Bridge and the Taftsville Covered Bridge.

Now if you are an outdoor lover, you will also find plenty of activities to explore. Go ski at the Suicide Six Ski area, where you will find trails for beginners to more experienced skiers. Or you can go hike at Mt Peg or Mt Tom to catch some great views of Woodstock and the surrounding areas while you hike this easy 1.7-mile trail.

Woodstock is a great place to visit all year long, but it turned into a magic place in December in the USA because of the holiday decorations. Here you can also find local artists, craftspeople, and purveyors that capture the Vermont winter wonderland spirit.

By Paula From Paula Pins the Planet

8. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Looking for an epic place to spend December in the USA? Try Bryce Canyon National Park.

Location: Bryce Canyon National Park

Getting There: The closest major airports to Bryce are Salt Lake City (approximately a four-hour drive north of the park) or Las Vegas (approximately a four hour and 20 minute drive southeast of the park).

Where To Stay: The Happy Trails Bnb is a family-owned and operated bed and breakfast, with clean and modern amenities and thoughtful touches (including plenty of in-room snacks!).

Bryce Canyon National Park offers one of the most unique landscapes in the United States, with an enormous sunken bowl, full of pink and orange rock spires (called hoodoos), towering out of the desert floor. These colorful hoodoos have been formed by erosion over millennia, creating an almost dream-like scenery that you have to see with your own eyes to believe.

Winter in Bryce Canyon can be quite chilly, with daily highs reaching the mid- to high-30s, but if you’re willing to throw on a cozy layer or two, you’ll get to enjoy the park virtually free of other visitors. You can see why this is a great spot to head to in December in the USA.

If you’re lucky, you may even get to see the park’s iconic rock formations covered with a light dusting of snow, which somehow just adds to their fairyland-like quality.

The best thing to do in the park is explore any of its amazing hiking trails, including the aptly-named Fairyland Loop Trail, which takes you down below the rim of the canyon to hike as the hoodoos tower overhead.

If you happen to be visiting during a snowy period, consider busting out those snowshoes and hit the Rim Trail, where you’ll be taken past seemingly countless overlooks of the surreal scenery below.

By Jessica From Uprooted Traveler

9. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a quaint town to spend December in the USA.

Getting There: Leavenworth is conveniently located on US Highway 2 on the west coast, and the picturesque drive through the Cascade Mountains has been voted as one of America’s most stunning routes. It is two hours from Seattle, WA, and four and a half hours from Vancouver, Canada.

Where to Stay: The Enzian Inn is situated close to the center of Leavenworth and is a popular option for accommodation. You’ll feel like you’re in a classic Austrian film set when you stay at this hotel, with hand-painted artwork and an abundance of wood paneling.

The two swimming pools and spacious rooms make this option highly desirable among families. You will want to reserve your time in Leavenworth early, as hotels can book up a year in advance for the holidays.

Leavenworth is a quaint town in the Cascade Mountains that comes alive with holiday cheer each December. During the Christmas Lighting Festival, the streets of Leavenworth are transformed into what feels like stepping into a Hallmark Christmas film.

The twinkling lights are best appreciated during one of the light ceremonies that take place every Saturday and Sunday, the first three weekends of December. Stay cozy as you watch the lights come alive with some delectable German sweets. December in the USA can’t get better than this!

Visitors can stroll down the streets to admire the lights as you listen to live Christmas music, go on a horse-drawn carriage ride, visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, admire the nutcracker museum, or even ice skate in front of the majestic mountain views. If it snows, there’s sledding in the heart of town. You may even see St. Nikolas making his rounds with Mrs. Claus. The holiday magic is endless!

There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy, making it the perfect place to do some holiday shopping or grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re looking for some winter magic or simply wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, a visit to Leavenworth during the Christmas season is sure to delight you.

By Debbie from World Adventurists

10. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is an amazing spot to spend December in the USA.

Location: Savannah, Georgia

Getting There: Fly into the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and then take Uber or Lyft or a taxi to your hotel for an approximate fee of $25.

Where to Stay: The Historic District is within easy walking distance to numerous landmarks, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Savannah’s weather during December is generally pleasant, with highs averaging in the 60’s (and often much warmer). You don’t need to pack a heavy winter coat! Just bring layers and toss in a pair of gloves in case you need them at night.

December is a very active time in the city! Christmas in Savannah is a beautiful time of year, and the city comes to life with a variety of events. Visitors can enjoy the Savannah Christmas Market, The Holiday Tour of Homes, visits from Santa, and live entertainment.

Make sure to stroll down Broughton Street to see the city’s official Christmas tree and check out the holiday window displays at The Paris Market – an excellent place to shop for holiday gifts.

Savannah’s Historic District homeowners tend to go all-out with their Christmas decorations, but most decorate in a very traditional manner. Expect to see historic mansions with lots of greenery, Southern-style Magnolia-leaf swags, classic Christmas trees, and candles displayed in windows.

One of the best places to stay in Savannah during the holidays is The Marshall House. They’re known for their unique décor, which includes a stunning Christmas tree designed to look like a pineapple (the symbol of Southern hospitality). You can see why it is such a great place to spend December in the USA.

Note: Don’t forget to check out the Hop on hop off tours, the river cruises and Tybee island tour.

By Erin From Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

11. Helen, Georgia

Helen is a unique place to visit during December in the USA.

Location: Helen is located 85 miles northeast of Atlanta.

Getting There: From Atlanta, Helen can be easily reached by car in just an hour and a half drive.

Where to Stay: The Castle Inn is a great choice! You can even request a room overlooking Main Street so that you can see the Christmas parade, the Helen Christkindlmarkt, and all the festive downtown Christmas lights from the comfort of your balcony.

Helen is a tiny, mountain town best known for its unique style of Bavarian architecture that makes all buildings look like they belong in a fairy tale. During the holidays, the village’s quirky charms multiply, making Helen one of the most popular places to visit during December in the USA.

There are several Christmas events in Helen during December. The holiday season begins with the Lighting of the Village, a free event where Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrive downtown to turn on the village’s Christmas lights.

Throughout the end of November and beginning of December, the town’s annual Christkindlmarkt runs for two weekends. This is another free event, but if you wish to purchase any gifts at the market, cash will be required, of course.

The Helen Christkindlmarkt is a popular place to shop for holiday treats, festive decor, handmade items, and unique Christmas presents to take home to your loved ones. You can even watch as toys are made right in front of you by local artisans!

The Helen Christmas parade typically occurs on the second Saturday in December. It’s one of the biggest celebrations of the year, so you won’t want to miss it! If you’re unable to attend this weekend, however, there’s still plenty left to do in Helen during December.

You can view the Christmas lights in the local park, take home fresh fudge from Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen, watch glass blowing demonstrations, or eat authentic German cuisine from one of the town’s riverfront restaurants.

If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit during December in the USA, then Helen, Georgia, is definitely the cute little town you won’t want to miss!

By Jillian Michelle from Adventure Dragon

12. New York City, New York

New York is the perfect city to spend December in the USA.

Location: New York City

Getting There: New York city is well connected by road, rail, and plane. It is serviced by 3 main airports, Amtrak, NJ Transit, NY Metro as well as several bus services.

Where To Stay: Staying in the city is expensive, however, AirBNBs and hostels are available. For those looking to be close to the action, staying close to Central Park, Hell’s Kitchen, or Midtown makes it easy to connect to all the attractions.

New York City in December is as magical as it comes. The city transforms into a Christmas and winter wonderland during the early winter month.

New York looks like the movies during this month, with several Christmas markets, store and home decorations, and of course trees such as the one Rockefeller Center.

Beyond that, visiting the Botanical Gardens and the annual Christmas train show is a NYC must. Wandering around the decorations in Dyker Heights is a local must (and top free thing to do in NY) or even the decorations in the Bronx Zoo is a fun evening activity.

If you time it right and the weather matches, sometimes snow can fall during the holidays as well. For a few moments the city looks magical and places like Central Park especially so. Ice Skating in Central Park (or at one of the many other rinks) is a visitor’s dream.

If you want to skate and avoid crowds the lovely rink at the South Street Seaport sees fewer tourists than the others.

On a side note, the food in New York is legendary. You just have to try out some of the delicacies no matter which season you visit.

Note: Don’t forget to check out the New York City pass. It can save you upto 40% on the top 5 attractions.

By Anwar From Beyond My Door

13. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns to spend December in the USA.

Location: Asheville, North Carolina

Getting There: You’ll fly into either Asheville Regional Airport in nearby Fletcher, NC, or into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is about two hours from Asheville.

Where To Stay: For accommodations that are unique to Asheville, you can stay at Omni Grove Park Inn or the Inn on Biltmore Estate. To be close to the action, a good spot is Hotel Indigo in downtown Asheville.

While it’s a fun place to visit all year long, December is a particularly beautiful time to explore Asheville. You could spend a day or 4 in Ashville. There are so many things to do!

Set in the western part of the state, this mountain town is known for its galleries, breweries, and beautiful scenery. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate.

The 8,000 square-foot home, the largest private residence in America, goes all-out for the holidays with extravagant decorations. Be sure to pick up some unique ornaments in the gift shop.

Another popular December activity is the annual National Gingerbread House Competition. While it’s held in November, the sweet creations remain on display in December. That is why it is a popular place to head to in December in the USA.

A colorful outdoor activity is to stroll the Winter Lights at The North Carolina Arboretum. And no visit to Asheville is complete without a visit to downtown, where you can browse local shops and galleries to find the perfect gift.

By Theresa From The Local Tourist

14. Freeport, Maine

Freeport is the perfect spot to spend December in the USA.

Location: Freeport, Maine

Getting There: Fly into Portland International Jetport. From there, Freeport is a quick 30 minute drive north. Take Rt. 295N to Exit 20 toward Freeport. You’ll follow this road, Rt. 1, right into the center of Freeport. There is also an Amtrak stop in Freeport if you prefer to take a train.

Where To Stay: A stay at the Harraseeket Inn will complete the magical feeling of Freeport in December. With luxurious amenities, including an indoor pool and fireplaces throughout, along with quintessential Maine charm, you won’t find a better place to return to after a day of exploring Freeport. It’s also just a short walk from downtown, so you won’t even need to take a car or worry about parking.

Visiting Freeport, Maine during December is like stepping back in time. The small streets and brick sidewalks are lined with quaint shops and locally owned cafes and restaurants.

Freeport is regularly voted one of New England’s favorite shopping spots. It hasn’t earned that top spot simply because of its outlet shops–though there are many–but because of all the independently owned shops in downtown Freeport.

Freeport marks the beginning of December with its Sparkle Celebration. The entire town puts up its lights and decorations, and the first weekend in December sees the annual Parade of Lights. You can see why it is an iconic place to spend December in the USA.

The Sparkle Celebration includes a full calendar of events for each day, with activities ranging from cider tastings to crafts for kids to diamond displays. There is literally something for everyone.

L.L. Bean’s flagship campus is also in downtown Freeport. Open 24/7, the store itself is an adventure to visit. However, L.L. Bean also celebrates the entire month of December by sponsoring its Northern Lights activities.

There is an interactive walk, Holidays Around the World, during which you can learn about important holidays in cultures around the world. You’ll also find free ice skating in Discovery Park, free hot chocolate, and even heated benches should you want to take a break!

Freeport in December is truly magical. Stay busy enjoying its amazing small-town ambiance, unique shops, and incredible array of holiday activities. Or, maybe, just relax on a heated bench with a free hot chocolate and take in Freeport’s charms.

By Melissa From Wandering Through Maine