17 Amazing Places To Visit In December In The USA

1. Leavenworth, Washington 

With snow-covered streets, glowing lights, carolers, mulled wine, and Santa making appearances, to me this Bavarian-style village in winter felt straight out of a Christmas movie – especially during this month’s dazzling Christmas Lighting Festival which included a display of over half a million twinkling lights.

In December (and through January and February, as locals told me), snow-capped peaks and Christmas markets set the scene, and my favorite event was the family-friendly Village of Lights: Christmastown with Santa and Mrs. Claus appearances, adorable gingerbread house displays, and even eerie Krampus characters from Austrian and German folklore roaming the streets.

I flew into Seattle, drove just 2.5 hours, and spent a magical long weekend staying at the romantic 4-star Storybook Riverside Inn soaking up Leavenworth’s snowy charm – think dazzling light displays, snowshoeing and tubing at the Winter Sports Club, sipping mulled wine at festive stalls, sleigh rides through Icicle Valley, and even a stop at the delightfully quirky Nutcracker Museum.

• Visitor’s center address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
• Location: Central Washington, Northwest USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: magical, snow-globe charm
• Average temperature – -6°C to 1°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on a hearty plate of a smoky Veggie Wurst, Backyard Brat Mustard and spicy Apple Cider Sauerkraut at the cozy München Haus.

2. Waikiki, Hawaii

I found that this famous beachfront neighborhood in Honolulu made an awesome hot December vacation! I found the weather was warm and sunny weather, with a lively but laid-back tropical atmosphere where I just relaxed on pale golden sands, swam in calm turquoise waters, and enjoyed beachfront dining with gorgeous views of Diamond Head.

There were a few warm rain showers, but honestly, I didn’t mind – visiting early in the month meant lighter crowds and snagging some great stays for less! Also, alongside the world-class Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore, Honolulu was buzzing with festive cheer – from giant displays at Honolulu City Lights to beachside holiday fun.

Landing at Honolulu International, I dove straight into Waikiki’s laid-back vibes – sun-soaked beach time, holiday shopping on Kalakaua Avenue, and a front-row seat to the surf pros at Banzai Pipeline! 

• Visitors Center Address: 159 Kaʻiulani Ave # 102, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Location: Honolulu, Oʻahu, Central Pacific, USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Tropical beachside paradise
• Average temperature – 27°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Going for a dip in the hot tub and sipping on a divine Hibiscus Margarita at the trendy rooftop Na Lani Sky Lounge at the 4-star Hokulani Waikiki Hotel.

3. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

I stayed at the 4-star Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville last Christmas and was seriously impressed—this sprawling, high-end Nashville hotel pulled out all the festive stops!

During this month I found it had transformed into a seriously dazzling holiday destination with over 3 million Christmas lights, indoor snow tubing, ice skating, whimsical grottos, themed events festive riverboat rides through decorated indoor gardens, and a really magical atmosphere that combined luxury with family-friendly holiday cheer – all under an enormous, climate-controlled glass atrium!

I flew into Nashville International and spent a magical week wrapped in festive cheer – gliding across the ice rink, marveling at the hand-carved ICE! sculptures, strolling through twinkling indoor gardens, catching holiday shows, and joining the city’s lively Christmas Parade, all as part of the dazzling “A Country Christmas” celebration.

• Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
• Vibe: A dazzling, over-the-top holiday resort experience
• Location: Nashville, Tennessee, Southeast USA
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 11°C to 13°C

My highlights…

• Going for a soothing scalp & hair treatment, steam bath and swim in the lap pool at the European-style Relâche Spa located in the resort.
• Discovering the Honky-Tonks located along Broadway – it was great to see locals dancing alongside tourists on the narrow floor (between the tables and the stage) at Robert’s Western World! 

4. Siesta Key, Florida

I loved how this gorgeous barrier island off Florida’s Gulf Coast made a dreamy hot winter vacation! I found that December was the least humid month, making it much more comfortable for outdoor activities than the hot, sticky summer – yet it was still warm and sunny enough for a much-needed winter Vitamin D fix!

I went early December so it was still considered off-season and I found the powder-soft white sand beaches were uncrowded, there were some good deals on accommodation, it was still warm enough to swim (just about though I have to admit!) and there was a laid-back island vibe with festive holiday events and outdoor dining options galore, but without the winter chill!

I flew into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and spent a dreamy week at the cute Inn on Siesta Key kicking back on the award-winning white quartz sands of Siesta Beach, watching festive boats light up the water in the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade, exploring the charming Siesta Key Village, and enjoying outdoor dining, live music, and Insta-worthy sunset views over the Gulf! 

• Tourist Office Address: 5223 Avenida Navarra, Siesta Key, FL 34242
• Location: Southwest Florida, Gulf Coast USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Laid-back Gulf Coast island
• Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C

My highlights…

5. New York

I found that there was a undeniable magic when I visited New York City during the Christmas season, which began in November and really stepped up a gear during this month.

I discovered that the city had transformed into a magical winter wonderland with festive lights and holiday window displays, iconic seasonal attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating at Bryant Park, and a lively holiday spirit.

I loved all the seasonal shows and events like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Santaland at Macy’s, the holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, and the Hanukkah celebrations across the city. 

I flew into JFK international airport and stayed for a fun five days. I checked out the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, took a twirl on Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, warmed up with a hot apple cider at the Winter Village at Bryant Park, went for a snow-dusted stroll in Central Park and then caught an iconic performance at the famous Nutcracker Ballet! 

• Visitors Center Address: 810 Seventh Avenue, between 52nd & 53rd Streets, New York City, NY 10019. 
• Location: Southeastern New York, Northeast USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Iconic city buzz meets winter wonderland
• Average December temperature – 4°C to 10°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star Moxy NYC Chelsea – I loved its striking botanical theme and how the entrance lobby doubled as overgrown flower shop! 
• Warming up with a gourmet Ethiopian Matcha Latte at the cool Cafe Grumpy. 

6. Avila Beach, California

I was craving a dose of Vitamin D during the winter months so I headed to this small, picturesque coastal town – it actually had some some of the warmest temperatures you can find in the whole of the country during this month.

I discovered that it’s one of the warmest and sunniest microclimates on the Central California coast—even in December—thanks to its sheltered position in San Luis Obispo Bay and was warmer than nearby coastal towns. I also stumbled across fun events such as the cute Santa’s Doggie Parade.

I drove four hours on the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles and stayed for a long weekend. I have to admit it wasn’t quite warm enough to swim comfortably, so instead I relaxed on the beach, watched the surfers, hiked the peaceful Bob Jones Trail, took leisurely bike rides, soaked in the natural hot springs at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and hunted for unique seasonal gifts at Avila Valley Barn all with a quieter, crowd-free version of California’s Central Coast with festive lights and holiday charm! 

• Visitor’s Center Address – 404 Front Street, Avila Beach, CA 93424
• Location: Central California, West Coast USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Laid-back coastal retreat 
• Average temperature – 16°C to 20°C

My highlights…

• Staying in a suite at the super-cute 4-star boutique inn Avila La Fonda Hotel, my room came with a large hot tub, a microwave and several bags of complementary truffle honey popcorn.
• Going wine-tasting at the boutique Sinor-Lavallee Tasting Room – my highlight was the velvety Pinot Noir Black Label! 

7. Whitefish, Montana

This premier ski destination was an awesome place to visit in December because I found that its powdery slopes had come alive with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, festive holiday events, and cozy mountain lodges, all set against a stunning snow-covered backdrop just minutes from the charming, twinkle-lit town of Whitefish and near the edge of Glacier National Park.

I discovered there were plenty of events to get involved with too including the Christmas Stroll which featured holiday music, photos with Santa, carol singing, a tree lighting ceremony, and street artisans and food vendors, and the family-friendly Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Santa’s Gift Giveaway.

I flew into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, drove 45 minutes and stayed for four days. I hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort, joined in the events and warmed up with après-ski dining at The Summit House! 

• Visitor Center Address: 100 2nd Street East, Suite 305 (Riverside Plaza Building), Whitefish, MT 59937, Phone: (406) 862-3390
• Location: Northwestern Montana, Northwestern USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: A cozy mountain town
• Average temperature – -6°C to 2°C

My favorite highlights… 

• Staying at the stylish but cozy Good Medicine Lodge – I loved their use of garden-grown herbs, in-house roasted coffee, organic cotton linens and locally crafted toiletries including huckleberry-scented soap!

8. Durango, Colorado

I took a unique December trip to this historic mountain town last year and didn’t regret my choice! I discovered it had transformed into a snowy alpine escape where skiing and snowboarding where on offer at the nearby Purgatory Resort, there were charming holiday-decorated downtown shops, and cozy mountain-town vibes complete with a backdrop of Insta-worthy snowy landscapes!

I saw the former gold and silver mining town had really come alive with seasonal events too such as the family-friendly Festival of Trees & Wreaths at the Durango Train Museum, and the community-wide Noel Night celebration which featured local shopping and festive live music. 

• Visitor Center Address: 802 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
• Location: Southwestern Colorado, Mountain West USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: snowy alpine escape
• Average temperatures – -10°C -5°C

My personal highlights…

• Gorging on tempeh tacos washed down with the citrusy Checkered Future IPA brew at the cool, music-inspired Ska Brewing Company   

9. Williamsburg, Virginia

I found out this ultra-charming historic gem of a city made a magical pre-Christmas break during this month. I found that this postcard-pretty town had transformed into a festive colonial wonderland with candlelit streets, historical reenactments, and seasonal events at Colonial Williamsburg. I loved the cozy, small-town charm which was elevated by traditional decorations, carol singing, and hot cider by the fire! 

I attended the incredible list of seasonal events which included the Grand Illumination which had pretty fireworks and candlelit streets, Busch Gardens Christmas Town which featured over 10 million lights and holiday shows, the beautiful Williamsburg Christmas Parade with illuminated floats, and the Yorktown Christmas Market where I went seasonal shopping and watched festive entertainment!

I flew into Newport News/Williamsburg Airport (PHF) and stayed for a photogenic four days at the romantic 4-star historic boutique Wedmore Place. Aside from all the events, I shopped for seasonal treats, went to the wreath-making workshops, and experienced a colonial-style Christmas dinner at the Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, accompanied by candlelight and storytelling!

• Tourist Office Address: 421 N Boundary Street | Williamsburg, VA 23185
• Location: Southeastern Virginia, Mid-Atlantic USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Colonial-era charm meets festive holiday magic
• Average temperature – 9°C to 13°C

My personal highlights…

• Going on the Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour – my favorite stop was the Peyton Randolph House which I was told by the guide was known as one of the most haunted houses in America, with many reports of paranormal activity!

10. Aspen, Colorado

I discovered that this upscale mountain town and ski resort was a great choice for a winter break during this month!

I found that it had turned into a snow-covered alpine paradise with world-class skiing and snowboarding on four iconic mountains, I saw pretty festive holiday lights illuminating downtown, a superb après-ski scenes at the chic lodges and bars, luxury shopping and dining, and a magical winter atmosphere framed by the snowy peaks of the Colorado Rockies!

Although I have to be honest, staying this time of year definitely wasn’t a budget-friendly option but it was luxury treat instead! I also got to go to festive events such as the 12 Days of Aspen which had concerts and fireworks and the 74th annual Wintersköl™ celebration which came with snow sculptures, a soup contest, and a torchlight parade!

I drove 3.5 hours through scenic mountain routes from Denver and stayed for a wonderful 4 days at the modern 4-star Aspen Meadows Resort indulging in the winter sports including tubing at Elk Camp on Snowmass, as well as sampling the famous Après-Ski Culture (Bootsy Bellows and The Little Nell were my favorites!), exploring the chic boutiques and discovering the high-end restaurant scene!

• Aspen Chamber Resort Association Address: 425 Rio Grande Place 81611 Aspen
• Location: Central Colorado, Mountain West USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Upscale alpine town
• Average temperature – -18°C to – 2°C

My personal highlights…

• Drinking a warming Fig-Infused Whiskey with Byrhh and gorging on truffle fries at the stylish Ajax Tavern.

11. Vermont

This scenic northeastern U.S. state, often associated with classic holiday imagery thanks to songs like Bing Crosby’s White Christmas, really wowed during this month!

I found its picturesque towns had come alive with twinkling holiday lights and festive charm, snow had blanketed the Green Mountains so the ski resorts were in full swing and there was a gorgeous collection of cozy inns, crackling fireplaces, and Christmas markets which all came together to create a classic New England winter wonderland experience!

I also found loads of seasonal events including the Wassail Weekend in Woodstock which had festive parades and holiday markets, the Festival of Trees in St. Albans which featured decorated trees, fun The Lake Morey Skate Trail,the cozy Stowe Winter Carnival. Vermont Holiday Festival in Killington which was filled with family-friendly activities. 

I flew into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and stayed at the ultra-charming 4-star Rabbit Hill Inn for an Insta-worthy two weeks. I went snowboarding at Stowe or Killington, shopped holiday markets in Burlington, and checked out the Christmas Markets – my favorites ended up being the lively Burlington Holiday Market, the nostalgic Very Merry Middlebury and quaint Grafton Christmas Market.

• Visitors Center Address: 680 North Main St., Route 2. Alburgh, VT 05440
• Location: Northeastern USA, bordering Canada
• Map Location
• Vibe: quintessential New England charm
• Average temperatures – -4°C to 2°C

My personal highlights…

• Riding The Polar Express Train – to White River Junction where I gorged on salted caramel hot cocoa, gingerbread cookies and sang carols while gazing at the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes! 

12. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

This sprawling Gilded Age Mansion in Asheville completely wowed me on my December visit! I saw that it had completely transformed into a magical holiday destination with its grand halls, crackling log fires, festive carols, and 55-foot Christmas tree, all beautifully decorated. 

I also found candlelit evening tours of the mansion, festive music, dazzling lights throughout all the gardens and Antler Hill Village, and a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that made it feel like I was stepping into a real-life Christmas story! 

I joined in the festive events which took place this month which included the enchanting “Candlelight Christmas Evenings” which came complete with flickering candles and live music, the beautiful festive lights and displays in Antler Hill Village, complimentary seasonal wine tastings at the estate’s winery, and Christmas shopping and dining experiences throughout the estate.

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), drove 20 minutes and stayed at the unique and quirky 4-star Blind Tiger for a long weekend so after exploring the estate for a two full days and trying wreath-making and ornament crafting in their cute onsite seasonal workshops, I ventured downtown and explored its cute collection of quirky shops, excellent restaurants and Christmas markets.

• Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
• Location: Western North Carolina, Blue Ridge Mountains, Southeast USA
• Map Location
• Biltmore Estate Website
• Vibe: Opulent Gilded Age elegance
• Average temperature – -1°C to 8°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on a hearty Ratatouille with lions mane and hazelnuts washed down with a Biltmore Old Fashioned at the stylish but cozy Cedric’s Tavern! 

13. Solvang, California

I absolutely adored visiting this charming Danish-style city during this month! I found that it had transformed into a festive wonderland during their annual ‘Julefest’, with twinkling lights, candlelit carolers, decorated streets, and cozy bakeries which served warm aebleskivers and gløgg – all set against the scenic Santa Ynez Valley backdrop! 

I discovered that the Julefest lasted all month and featured a tree lighting ceremony, a whimsical festive parade, a family-friendly Santa’s Village, candlelight tours, nightly light and music shows, a Nisse Adventure scavenger hunt, seasonal markets and I found out from locals that it finished with the dramatic Christmas Tree Burn which was held in early January.

I drove 2.5 hours from Los Angeles on Highway One and stayed for a long weekend at the beautiful and romantic 4-star The Landsby Hotel. Aside from joining in the festivities I browsed the stalls at the Makers Market and explored the unique Scandi-inspired architecture, quaint shops, cute bakeries and cozy cafes filled with ‘hygge’ vibes!

• Visitor Center Address: 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
• Location: Central California, Santa Ynez Valley, West Coast USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: charming European holiday atmosphere
• Average temperature – 16°C to 18°C

My personal highlights…

• Browsing the Scandinavian Nisse dolls, German nutcrackers, and hand-blown Italian glass ornaments at Solvang’s famous year-round Christmas store, Jule Hus!
• Dining on a dish of delicious bucatini pasta, foraged mushrooms and truffle sauce at the trendy Scandi-chic Mad & Vin Restaurant!

14. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

I took a December break to this historic coastal city and it totally charmed me! It was filled with quaint brick-lined streets sparkling with holiday lights, glowing historic homes in Strawbery Banke, and a waterfront downtown that felt like a cozy, snow-dusted winter postcard brought to life! 

I adored how it really had come alive with festive events such as the Candlelight Stroll where historic homes were adorned with handmade decorations and illuminated by candlelight, the Illuminated Holiday Parade on December 7, featured lighted floats and community performances, the Gingerbread House Exhibition at Portsmouth Historical Society, showcased creative confections, and I heard from locals that they’d organized the First Night Portsmouth for December 31 to see in the New Year!

I drove an hour from Boston and stayed for a unique long weekend. I strolled through the illuminated streets, joined in the events and shopped and dined in the twinkling, historic streets of downtown Portsmouth!

• Visitor Center Address: 500 Market Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
• Location: Southeastern New Hampshire, Northeast USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Historic New England charm
• Average temperature – 4°C to 3°C

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the gorgeous 4-star historic boutique The Hotel Portsmouth – I loved how it still featured the crown moldings, woodwork, and fireplaces and I loved the cute vintage red telephone box too!

15. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

Visiting this historic city during this month turned out to be a great choice! Known as “Christmas City USA.” The locals told me that it had a festive vibe all year round but I found this month to be magical – in my experience it was one of the best Christmas towns to visit!

I saw charming snow-dusted colonial streets which had come alive with twinkling lights, Christmas markets and festive events that celebrated its European Moravian roots.

I drove two hours from New York City and spent a long weekend at the cozy and romantic 4-star Sayre Mansion. I joined in the packed calendar of events which had been running since late November which included the opening of the Christkindlmarkt a large indoor market with German food and music, the outdoor Christmas City Village, with had traditional wooden huts sell food, handmade crafts and artisanal treasures.

I also loved exploring all the independent shops, sipping on authentic German Glühwein, discovering the entertaining and whimsical Living Advent Calendar, which was held daily at 5:30pm at The Goundie House and discovering the interesting 18th-century buildings, museums and churches in the pretty Historic Moravian District.

• Visitors Center Address: 505 Main St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.
• Location: Eastern Pennsylvania, Lehigh Valley, Northeastern USA.
• Map Location
• Vibe: Charming historic town
• Average temperature – -1.8°C to 4.5°C

My personal highlights…

• Searching for unique Christmas gifts in the trendy Domaci shop – the Bethlehem Skyline Cutting Boards and retro Vinyl Floorcloths were stand out items!

16. Crystal Beach, Texas

I found this family-friendly beach made a unique and eco-friendly December break! It was a peaceful, off-season coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, with mild weather, wide-open drive-on beaches perfect for long walks and beachcombing, fewer crowds, and beautiful sunrises over the Gulf.

It was also very affordable during this month as well as being not so many tourists and great opportunities for spotting dolphins and migratory birds.

I have to admit it wasn’t quite warm enough to swim comfortably this time of year but there were plenty of fun events on to make up for that such as the Bolivar Christmas Market where I found local crafts and a tree lighting ceremony, the Crystaland Christmas Parade which featured decorated golf carts and a Santa appearance, and live holiday music performances at Camp Margaritaville Crystal Beach.

I flew into William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston and spent a relaxing week at the modern self-catering 4-star Beachfront House, paddling in the waves, going to the seasonal events, trying the local cuisine and just soaking up the laid-back coastal vibes!

• Average temperature – 11°C to 18°C
• Location: Southeast Texas, Southeastern USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Laid-back Gulf Coast retreat
• Visitors Center Address: 2275 TX-87 Suite 10 #2621, Crystal Beach, TX 77650

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the toe-tapping Brandon McDermott Band play live at the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe.  
• Dining on the patio at Crystal Chandelier – both their healthy power bowls and hearty plates of fish and chips were equally as tasty!

17. North Pole, Alaska

I took a trip to this small city near Fairbanks known for its year-round Christmas theme during this month I didn’t regret it! I found snow-covered streets, dazzling Christmas lights, and iconic Santa Claus House which created a magical, festive wonderland where I met Santa, mailed postcards from the “North Pole,” and soaked up the holiday spirit in a real-life winter setting! 

I loved that they hosted a variety of events during this month including the annual Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar which was filled with local crafts and fireworks, the Christmas in Ice exhibition which had impressive ice carvings and slides, and ongoing celebrations at the Santa Claus House, which included visits with Santa and unique holiday shopping. 

I flew into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), and then drove about 15 minutes southeast. I spent two days visiting the famous Santa Claus House, admiring the dazzling light displays along Santa Claus Lane, enjoying the festive events and sending a postcard stamped with a real North Pole postmark! 

• Visitor Center Address: 2550 Mistletoe Drive, North Pole, AK 99705.
• Location: Interior Alaska, Far North USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: Whimsical Christmas-themed town
• Average temperature – –23°C to –13°C

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the nearby Insta-worthy Wilding Hotels Fairbanks – it was incredible to wake up to the pristine surrounding wilderness from the comfort of my bed courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling glass walls! 

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