The 10 Best Places To Visit in December in The USA (2024)

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Looking for a quick hit of info to get you on the road, check out the highlights here –

• Best For Christmas – New York City, NY
• Best For Snow Sports – Aspen, Colorado
• Best For Beaches – Florida
• Best Winterwonderland – Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
• Best For Warm Weather Adventures – Hawaii
• Best For Atmosphere – New Orleans, Louisiana
• Best For Nightlife – Las Vegas, Nevada
• Best Mild Winter Escape – San Diego, California
• Best for Warm Desert Escapes – Phoenix, Arizona
• Best for Winter Mountain Adventures – Jackson Hole, Wyoming

From the snowy mountains of the Rockies to sunning it up for a warm Christmas down on Miami beach. The USA has a vast and varied climate, so you can experience the kind of December you’d like. Whether you’re embracing winter in all its frozen glory, or plotting an escape to sunnier climes during your visit to the USA, I’ve got you covered here.

1) New York City, NY

December is a great time to visit The Big Apple, in fact, it might just be the best time to visit New York City. I don’t know about you, but growing up in the ’90s with movies like “Home Alone” and “Miracle on 24th Street” made me associate New York with Christmas. So it just seems to make sense!

With iconic seasonal attractions like the Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center, the elaborate holiday windows on Fifth Avenue, Central Park’s Wollman ice rink, and of course, the world-class shopping in places like Macy’s, it’s perfect for the most wonderful time of the year. Plus, there’s Times Square on New Year’s Eve, which doesn’t need any introduction!

You’re probably aware of this, but just to reiterate this because I did get chilblains on Liberty Island in the winter, but New York is cold in December! Not only that but snow storms aren’t uncommon either, even right in the heart of midtown.

So be sure to wrap up warm, pack a good quality jacket (my go-to travel jacket is the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket) and soak in the festive winter atmosphere of NYC.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) during the day to 27°F to 36°F (-3°C to 2°C) at night
• Snow possible – Yes!

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2) Aspen, Colorado

If you’re a ski enthusiast looking to hit up world-class slopes you can do so at Aspen Mountain and Snowmass, right here in Colorado. This area might be pretty well known for lovers of snow sports, but that is for good reason. It’s probably one of, if not THE BEST places in the world to embrace the winter weather and get on the slopes.

Being a popular spot for snow sports enthusiasts, another reason that many love it is due to its banging Apres Ski. This means that it’s not only the days here that are full of adventure and fun, but the nights are just as legendary too. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of high-end shopping and dining options for those wanting to keep things classy!

Aspen is a winter destination that perfectly combines luxury, stunning alpine scenery, world-class ski and snowboard runs as well as great restaurants and transport links.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C) during the day to 10°F to 20°F (-12°C to -6°C) at night
• Snow possible – Yes!

3) Florida

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t particularly like being cold in winter (me!) then heading south to Florida is the perfect way to escape the chilly weather. The best thing about the aptly named “Sunshine State” is that there’s something for everyone down here. If you want to party it up, then head to Miami, hit the theme parks, check out Orlando, have a chilled-out beachside vacay, and stay in Key West.

From coastal spots to bustling cities and beautiful marshes and mangroves, Florida is a classic winter sun destination that is hard to beat if you’re looking for diversity and bang for your buck.

If you think you’ll miss out on the magic of Christmas by heading to warmer climes, then think again. In fact, Florida’s world-famous theme parks become even more magical over the holiday period with festivals, events and decorations getting you right into the spirit… just without having to wear long johns!

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 70°F to 77°F (21°C to 25°C) during the day to 55°F and 65°F (13°C to 18°C) at night
• Snow possible – No

4) Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland in December. The serenity of the lake covered in a blanket of snow combined with the opportunity for winter adventure sports, offers the perfect place to indulge in the best bits of winter.

Whether you fancy snowshoeing around the lake, flying down the slopes of this incredible landscape or cuddling by the fire in a cozy lodge, you can do it right here. With snowcapped peaks and magical forests surrounding the stunning blue waters of the lake, this is possibly one of the most beautiful locations to visit in the US in December.

With the Tahoe City Christmas Eve Parade, Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, and the Winter Festival in many of the towns surrounding the lake, the area really gets into the festival spirit. Lake Tahoe is a winter paradise with a great mix of activities, events and vibes. Plus, there are loads of great places to stay in Lake Tahoe for any kind of traveller.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 30°F to 40°F (about -1°C to 4°C) during the day to 10°F to 20°F (-12°C to -6°C) at night
• Snow possible – Yes!

5) Hawaii

If you’re the kinda person looking for that endless summer where you can hit the waves, and explore lush jungles, canyons and volcanos, even in winter, then staying in Hawaii is for you. With mild temperatures in December and far fewer tourists than in the peak season, it’s not only one of the best places to visit in the USA in December, but it might just be the best time to visit Hawaii.

For those keen on wildlife, December is the beginning of whale-watching season in Hawaii making it a great time of year to spot humpback whales, particularly off the coast of Maui and the Big Island. If you fancy doing your own impression of a whale, then the waters around Hawaii are perfect whether you’re looking for sheltered spots for swimming and snorkelling or hitting up the big waves that arrived in December.

On top of that, Hawaii has its own unique Christmas traditions that offer a tropical twist on festivities. Joining in with events like the Honolulu City Lights, the Waikiki Christmas Parade, and the Mele Kalikimaka Market gives you the opportunity to embrace these differences.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 79°F to 83°F (26°C to 28°C) during the day to 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C) at night
• Snow possible – No

6) New Orleans, Louisiana

If you think that New Orleans is colourful, then you want to see it during the holiday season! Visiting in December offers the best combination of happening vibes, mild weather and fewer crowds. If you’ve ever visited NOLA during the stinking hot summer, you’ll know how overwhelming the heat and humidity can be, but thankfully in December the weather is perfect for exploring all this wonderful city has to offer.

December brings a festive charm to New Orleans like nowhere else and you know they’re bringing their own unique culture to this most wonderful time of the year! The Celebration in the Oaks at City Park is a must-see light display for example, plus events like Reveillon Dinners which offers multi-course Creole and Cajun meals. There are some amazing places to visit in New Orleans, especially in December.

Plus, NOLO is much much quieter during winter without feeling dead. In December you’ve got all the locals without the masses of tourists. This means shorter lines, cheaper accommodation and more Sazerac’s to go around, plus you’ll have a more authentic experience too.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 63°F to 67°F (17°C to 19°C) during the day to 48°F to 52°F (9°C to 11°C) at night.
• Snow possible – No

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7) Las Vegas, Nevada

Let’s be honest, Vegas is always a good idea, no matter what time of year you’re thinking of visiting. But if you wanna party, cus it’s December and all, then you wanna head to the biggest party town around!

Forget the blistering heat of the summer, over the holidays you’ll find Vegas mild enough to hit the strip without breaking a sweat. Sure, you might have to pack a sweater for the evenings, but it’s better than the thermal undies you’d be wearing back in Bridgeport, CT!

As you might imagine, the city puts on quite a show over the festive season and iconic spots. There are loads of things to do in Vegas, like The Bellagio Conservatory and The Venetian offer stunning displays and events. In particular “Winter in Venice” with its ice skating, holiday shopping, and Christmas entertainment offers an unforgettable experience.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 58°F to 63°F (14°C to 17°C) during the day to 39°F to 42°F (4°C to 6°C) at night.
• Snow possible – No

8) San Diego, California

This is a fantastic destination for those looking for mild winter weather, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of outdoor things to do in San Diego in December in the USA. Whilst it is cooler than the summer months, the temperature is a lot more comfortable for exploring and you’ll find many of the main sights much quieter.

Whilst you might not get a white Christmas down here, The Hotel Del Coronado is famous for its Victorian-style Christmas decorations and it’s here you can take part in ice skating by the beach, a unique experience for most of us from the cooler parts of the world!

San Diego offers a relaxed yet festive vibe where you can still enjoy gentle strolls along the beach in the California sunshine without missing out on all that Christmas cheer!

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 64°F to 68°F (18°C to 20°C) during the day to 48°F to 52°F (9°C to 11°C) at night.
• Snow possible – No

9) Phoenix, Arizona

If you’re looking to escape the winter weather, then where better than the desert? With pleasant temperatures and unique Christmas traditions, Pheonix offers a totally different vibe over the holiday period from what you’ll find anywhere else.

To fully embrace the landscape here, head to the Desert Botanical Garden to experience the “Las Noches de las Luminarias” where thousands of lanterns light up the desert creating a magical atmosphere. Then there’s the much-loved Rockin’ Christmas at the Arizona Biltmore which offers ice skating and live music – you won’t be short of things to do in Pheonix.

December’s cooler temperatures also make it perfect to go hiking through the desert, be sure to check out Piestewa Peak and South Mountain Park where you can tackle many trails of different difficulties and soak in the unique rock formations and many species of cacti. McDowell Mountain Regional Park also offers incredible mountain biking if that’s more your thing.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 64°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C) during the day to 42°F to 46°F (6°C to 8°C) at night.
• Snow possible – No

10) Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole transforms into a beautiful, snow-covered wonderland in December that offers a great mix of cozy cabins and exciting outdoor activities for the ultimate winter vibes. Over the holiday period, the town and surrounding mountains are dusted with snow, making it perfect for those looking for a picturesque getaway.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders will revel in the challenging runs and extensive backcountry terrain of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Whereas those looking for more family and beginner-friendly runs are best to stay in Grand Targhee Resort. But those aren’t the only ways to embrace the landscape of this stunning region either, activities like snowshoeing, wildlife safaris and snowmobiling are popular too.

For something more sedate head for the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and the Jackson Hole Holiday Festival. Visiting Jackson Hole in December is all about embracing the slower pace of life out here, relaxing in a cabin by the fire and soaking in the stunning snow-covered landscape in whichever way you choose.

Weather

• Average Temperatures – 20°F to 30°F (-7°C to -1°C) during the day to 5°F to 15°F (-15°C to -9°C) at night.
• Snow possible – Yes!

Get Insured BEFORE Visiting The USA

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Whether you’re seeking the unique Christmas vibes of New York City, the snow-covered peaks of Aspen, or the mild sunshine (and slightly chaotic nature) of Florida, December offers a wide range of destinations to explore across the USA.

Picking out the right location for your December vacation really depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s an escape to warmer weather and ripping it up on the beach on Christmas Eve, then hell yeah, go all in for Hawaii! if you want a homely cabin with a romantic blanket of snow in fairytale-esque surroundings, then get yo ass over to Lake Tahoe!

Either way, it just goes to show you don’t need to travel far to find the perfect place to visit in December and in fact, many of those are right here in the USA.

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