Not sure which are the best places to visit in December in USA? I still have the same question every December. Do I want to escape busy city life and enjoy snow-covered mountains and wildlife in winter? Or do I prefer visiting a busy city bustling with Christmas decorations? Or would I rather skip winter altogether and head somewhere warm?
USA is huge with diverse landscapes, cultures and climates. The December ‘feel’ of every state is unique and worth experiencing. Winter snowfall re-paints the mountain landscapes, Christmas trees and markets pop out in cities, desserts welcome adventurous people and palm trees on warm beaches get dressed in Christmas lights.
I have got 25 recommendations for experiencing December in the USA in completely different ways. For all best December destinations listed, I will also share a useful piece of travel gear that I packed, a creative photo idea and a local food experience worth trying.
Rockefeller center, New York City, NY
Remember the Christmas tree around which Kevin finally met his mom in ‘Home Alone 2”? This is exactly that Rockefeller center, where the Rockefeller Christmas tree is enormously decorated in December.
New York is one of the best US cities to visit in December. The Rockefeller Center is a huge plaza complex in the heart of Manhattan. It gave me two very different perspectives of New York: a vertical aspect from below showing the soaring Manhattan buildings, and a horizontal aspect from the top showing the city’s fabulous skyline.
It is a bunch of skyscrapers, plazas, gardens, restaurants, artwork, shops and a lot more interesting stuff. The lower plaza, which is sunken below ground level, houses the famous Prometheus sculpture. In December, an ice rink is built around it with the big Christmas tree.
I went ice skating, shopping and had food. I entertained myself in all ways and enjoyed the mesmerizing views, scents and the cheering sounds of the busy city.
Packing Tip: Remember to pack touchscreen gloves because it was cold, but I had to touch a lot of screens!
Photo Idea: I got a candid shot looking up at the tree, like I was walking toward it.
Food Experience: I tried the Lobster roll at Luke’s Lobster at Rockefeller Center; it tasted very New Yorky!
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, Brooklyn, NY
Dyker heights is a residential neighborhood in Brooklyn. However, around December, they gorgeously decorate their houses and the streets with elaborate Christmas lights. These are not just holiday decorations; they turn the whole neighborhood into a beautiful Christmas spectacle, adorning it with Santas, snowmen, toy soldiers and illuminated trees. It is vibrant with music, moving figures and nativity scenes.
I found the best decorations around 11th to 13th Avenues and 83rd to 86th streets. The whole spectacle almost looks surreal, making it one of the best places to visit in December in USA. The best time to visit is from mid-December to New Year’s Eve, and of course at nighttime.
Packing Tip: A pair of very comfortable shoes would help. as I had to walk a lot in those streets.
Photo Idea: I asked someone to click a photo of me walking down an enormously decorated street.
Food Experience: I grabbed a pizza slice, an Italian pastry and hot chocolate from nearby Bensonhurst before I started wandering in the neighborhood.
Bryant Park Winter Village, New York City, NY
This one is especially for ice-skating enthusiasts. There is a large ice-skating rink in the middle of Manhattan, lined by little kiosks and stalls, surrounded by skyscrapers of the city. It is built temporarily inside a park in Manhattan in the winters and houses an open-air holiday market. It is one of those December destinations for families that are filled with hundreds of vendors selling jewelry, gifts, crafts and seasonal items, which give this village its own unique aura. The ice rink hosts more of a recreational and fun activity there rather than some professional sport.
Packing Tip: I brought my own skates and got free entry to the ice rink. I wore a cross-body bag because I could not resist buying that beautiful tiny stuff at the stalls.
Photo Idea: I got a photo of myself skating with the kiosks and the whole urban backdrop in view.
Food Experience: I visited ‘The Lodge’ and got a taste of food from different local vendors.
Christmas at the Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC
Biltmore estate is a huge historic estate in Asheville, North Carolina, built for George Washington Vanderbilt II. The main focus is the Biltmore house, which is regarded as America’s largest home. When I visited it in December, I observed very elegant and elaborate outdoor and indoor Christmas decorations, in a bit of a historic theme. It was like walking into a 19th century mansion with candles, crackling fireplaces, Christmas lights, music, and dozens of Christmas trees. That is a recreation of the Vanderbilt family’s first Christmas at Biltmore in 1895.
Packing Tip: A pair of heels for the photos would be fine, but the house is huge; wear comfortable shoes. Also, any baggage has to be less than 19 x 4 x 9 inches in size inside the Biltmore house.
Photo Idea: The banquet hall is elaborately decorated and is worth a nice picture. I got the grand staircase and the full height of the room in my background to get that historical effect.
Food Experience: I got a handsome meal for myself as Biltmore estate has all kinds of restaurants.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
I once wanted a desert adventure in December, so I planned a trip here. Joshua Tree National Park is a protected region in California. It is at the junction of the Mojave Desert and Colorado Desert. The special thing about this is the unique architecture of the Joshua trees, with their twisted trunks and branches.
The desert is extremely hot in summer, therefore December is the best time to visit. I explored the Hidden Valley, saw the Arch Rock and visited the Cholla Cactus Garden. The sunrise and sunset at the horizon and stargazing at night really took me into another world.
Packing Tip: Pack a headlamp because this one is an International dark sky park, especially for stargazing.
Photo Idea: I got silhouettes of myself beside a Joshua tree in the mesmerizing sunset.
Food Experience: I tried the nearby Coachella date shake, as dates are a specialty of this desert.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
The hot Sonoran Desert, located at the U.S.-Mexico border, becomes milder in winter and is one of the best places to visit in December in USA. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona is a huge and diverse landscape with rugged mountains, organ pipe-like cacti, valleys, volcanic formations and forests of saguaro. I had heard that tourists go for long drives, hikes and exploration in the region.
The Ajo mountain drive covered all areas in the comfort of my vehicle. I made stops for sunset and stargaze and captured those moments in my camera and inside my heart.
Packing Tip: I kept a binocular because the landscape is large and I would be on a drive but not want to miss scenic views.
Photo Idea: I stood in front of a giant cactus and got a full-length photo with it.
Food Experience: I tried the Sonoran hot dog in the nearby town of Ajo.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
The White Sands National Park in New Mexico is one of the warm places in USA in December that gives the white hue effect of December without the cold. It is made up of gypsum crystal dunes and stretches over 275 sq. miles. In December, the desert becomes calmer.
The fun thing here is to walk the dunes and view the sun change the sand color as it travels across the sky. Desert sledging is also an integral part of the whole experience.
Packing Tip: I kept my sunglasses with me, as the white desert reflects a big deal of sunlight.
Photo Idea: I walked along a dune’s crest, leaving a line of footprints behind me and let someone capture that from a distance.
Food Experience: I tried the Mexican cuisine with its combo of red and green chili sauce.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Most people picture the Grand Canyon in their minds as red and brown desert rocks in blazing sunshine. But December changes the whole landscape and the experience, making it one of the best places to visit in December in USA. The Grand Canyon is one of those places which nature itself decorates during the holiday season. December snow covers its cliffs and pine-covered rim, changing the look of the whole landscape.
I had this amazing view from the Mather point and Yavapai point. The desert view watchtower drive is also the thing worth experiencing.
Packing Tip: I got a really nice grip for my shoes there, because cliffs and snow can become dangerous.
Photo Idea: I stood at the rim and captured the whole view at the back.
Food Experience: I tried the Navajo fry bread and taco as a regional food experience.
Death Valley National Park, California
For most part of the year, Death Valley has extremely hot temperatures. However, December is the time when the whole experience can be enjoyed in a calm and warm environment.
The Mesquite flat sand dunes gave a classic desert experience; the Badwater basin let me stand below sea level in a surreal salt flat and Artist’s Palette gave me a view of a rainbow-colored mountain side.
Packing Tip: Even though it was winter, I brought a water bottle with me. Dehydration can be very stealthy.
Photo Idea: I walked into the Badwater Basin and got a photo of myself with the geometric salt patterns.
Food Experience: Try the date shake in nearby areas.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
It houses the classic Colorado mountain view. The park is located in the central Rocky Mountains and houses jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, forests, alpine lakes and beautiful valleys. I drove through the whole landscape and enjoyed the diverse geographical features it contains.
In December, the park becomes quieter, the lakes freeze, mountain peaks get covered in snow and the trails turn into ski routes. I would regard it as one of the best places to visit in December as it gave me a very wholesome experience of winter wilderness. I visited the Bear lake, the Sprague lake and spotted wildlife along the way. I had this very unique experience of snowshoeing there too.
Packing Tip: I had traction cleats for my shoes, because of the rocky landscape.
Photo Idea: I got a reflection of myself in front of an unfrozen part of a lake with the snow-covered Rocky Mountains at the backdrop.
Food Experience: After exploring the mountains in the cold, I warmed my body up with a bowl of elk chili in Estes Park.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
The gorgeous Lake Tahoe sits at the border of California and Nevada, high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is a large, clean and clear, deep-blue lake in North America. As December approaches, snowfall changes the whole landscape into beautiful blue and white scenery.
I made sure to visit the iconic Emerald Bay, mountain resorts and the shoreline. The Heavenly Gondola became a memorable skiing experience. I got to experience versatile geographic experiences around the same lake.
Packing Tip: There was lots of snow and water, so pack waterproof snow boots.
Photo Idea: I got a wide-angle picture of myself at the Gondola viewpoint.
Food Experience: It was cold. I warmed myself up with a bowl of Fondue and hearty chili.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The great smoky mountains are named after the bluish-gray mist that forms from natural moisture and organic compounds from the dense forests. This one gave me a very calm vibe and I felt like something was healing inside me.
In December, the mist is more prominent, and the white color of snow is in moderation. I would regard this as one of the best places to travel in December. I mostly drove through this and explored the Cades Cove, Newfound Gap and Clingman’s Dome, which is the highest point of the park.
Packing Tip: I kept a binocular with myself so that I could view deer and other wildlife clearly from afar.
Photo Idea: I got a click of myself walking toward a wooden cabin with the mist in the background.
Food Experience: I made a stop at Gatlinburg and tried a stack of their fluffy pancakes.
Jackson Hole & Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Mountains usually rise gradually in the ranges, but the Tetons take a steep shoot out of the valley floor. In December, the mountains get painted in snow and wildlife shows their winter-survival skills. The place becomes a hub for winter activities and is known as one of the best US destinations in December.
The national Elk refuge let me witness elk migration toward the valley, sitting in a sleigh. Skiing and snowboarding are available at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Packing Tip: I kept insulated thermos with me. I got cold and dehydrated because of spending lots of time outdoors.
Photo Idea: I got a photo during the sleigh ride with the Elk migration behind me.
Food Experience: I tried Bison and Elk Chili for a warmup. Huckleberry treats were also worth trying.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of the classic snowy places in USA and the perfect definition of a mountain town in winter. Sometimes I don’t want wilderness, but a scenic view from a city-like location. I would rank Aspen on the top of the list of best places to visit in December in the USA for such experience.
In December, I experienced the natural beauty of the Elk mountains in Colorado with festive Christmas displays in the town. The town was charming and had historic buildings, restaurants, inns, art galleries and boutiques. Winter activities like skiing and snowboarding were readily available.
Packing Tip: I tucked in a few handwarmers as I had to spend long days outdoors.
Photo Idea: I got a photo of myself with blurring town lights and the mountains in my background.
Food Experience: I tried cheese fondue. It gave me a hearty, mountain meal-like feel.
Park City, Utah
Park city is situated in the Wasatch mountains in Utah. Historically, it was a silver-mining town in the 19th century. In December, Park city gave me a bustling city vibe with a magnificent view of the mountains. Streets got festive with Christmas decorations and cafes and restaurants were very busy.
A walk through the main streets decorated with warm lights, with a snow blanket all around gave me a very cozy vibe. There is a historical character to Park city which gets enhanced when the old buildings are decorated for Christmas. Skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities give this place an extra cheer.
Packing Tip: I had waterproof touchscreen gloves that came in handy when I was walking through the streets and enjoying winter activities.
Photo Idea: I stood in the middle of the historic main street decorated with lights and got the view of the mountains in the background.
Food Experience: Don’t miss the famous fry sauce of Utah. I had it with a burger and fries.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mountain Rainier is a huge active volcano towering prominently above a cluster of forest trees. In December, it receives heavy snowfall and the view becomes spectacular. I visited the ‘Paradise’ which is located at Mount Rainier’s southern side. It is a resort to warm up and appreciate the winter landscape.
Packing Tip: Bringing snowshoes here is more of a necessity than a tip.
Photo Idea: I captured a photo of myself standing beside a tree with the Mount Rainier in the Background.
Food Experience: I warmed up with hot chocolate and then had salmon with a mushroom side dish.
Las Vegas Strip, Nevada
In the midst of the hot Nevada desert lies a spectacular artificial oasis-cum-city. There were neon lights everywhere: hotels, fountains, indoor gardens and giant replicas of New York skyline and the Eifel Tower! The music, the shows and the enthusiastic people added to the glamor of the Las Vegas strip.
The best time to visit the Las Vegas strip was December, as the temperatures got milder and I could enjoy myself outdoors. The indoor decorations, the restaurants and other activities were also transformed according to the holiday theme in December. The Bellagio fountains, the tropical-themed flamingo and the Caesar’s palace were worth giving a visit to in this surreal little world.
Packing Tip: Although the weather was mild, the nights got cold. So, pack a light evening jacket or coat.
Photo Idea: I took wide angle shots with neon-lighted buildings and landmarks behind me.
Food Experience: There is no ‘one local dish’ to recommend. There were a dozen options, and I had to book a buffet to get the whole culinary experience.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
This one is one of many fine ideas of December getaways for couples. It is seven small islands in the Gulf of Mexico cut off from the main road. The best part was that I got to travel by ferry. It is a remote location with a gigantic fort existing in the middle. I explored Fort Jefferson’s brick passageways, climbed around walls built with hexagonal bricks and enjoyed view of the turquoise water around it.
In December, the place is warm enough for a swim. It became a healing holiday experience. Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most calm places to visit in December.
Packing Tip: I kept my phone and essentials in a waterproof phone pouch.
Photo Idea: I stood on the brick wall of the fort and captured myself looking at the turquoise waters.
Food Experience: I packed a picnic lunch and enjoyed it by the seaside, which was fun in its own way.
Cannon beach, Oregon
I would not merge this beach experience with warm and calm beaches, because the Cannon beach was stormy and moody. Lining the Pacific Ocean, the Cannon beach is recognized by the enormous Haystack rock. It creates a kind of reference point and a nice silhouette for pictures at sunset.
Around the rock, where there is low tide, I saw little pools forming, containing tiny marine creatures. In December, the stormy and dramatic vibe of Cannon beach was at its peak. I explored the shoreline, watched the waves and made a visit to the Cannon beach town.
Packing Tip: Fortunately, I had packed a waterproof windbreaker as I had to wear it at the place.
Photo Idea: I captured the reflection of the Haystack rock beneath my feet in the wet sand and got a click.
Food Experience: After the windy and wavy beach exploration, I had a bowl of creamy clam chowder.
The National Mall, Washington, D.C.
The National Mall is a stretch of statues, museums and memorials in the heart of Washington. There are the US Capitol, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Smithsonian Museums World War II Memorial and Lincoln Memorial, surrounded by neat lawns and reflecting pools.
I am interested in history and political sciences and wanted a one-time visit and some nice photos with memorials in Washington. Visiting in December was a good idea as the weather was milder and as nights started early, I could have a look at the memorials glow in the dark.
Packing Tip: I kept a power bank in my purse, as I had to use my phone a lot for photos, navigation and information.
Photo Idea: I got a photo standing right in front of every monument, then photoshopped all of them into one group photo of all monuments.
Food Experience: For Washington, I tried a half-smoke. It is a smoky sausage commonly served in a bun with chili or onion toppings.
French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana
This one was a non-traditional holiday, away from snowy streets but with a bustling city vibe. New Orleans carries history and diverse cultures in its architecture, shaped by French, Africans, Spanish, Caribbean and American communities. I noticed narrow streets, interior courtyards, colorful buildings and wrought-iron balconies overflowing with plants.
The French Quarter is the most ancient building in the neighborhood, with a distinct architectural aura. December added to its beauty with flower wreaths and Christmas lights. Besides, I listened to live jazz, walked down the elegant Royal Street, visited Bourbon Street and explored Jackson Square in New Orleans.
Packing Tip: I wore a crossbody bag so that I could walk freely in the streets and carry little purchases easily.
Photo Idea: I had a stranger click a photo of me on a street corner beneath a balcony, facing upward, as if I was admiring the architecture.
Food Experience: I got myself a warm and sugary beignet before I had gumbo.
Radio City Music Hall, New York
Radio city music hall, which is an Art Deco entertainment venue, is located in Rockefeller Center. With its huge and glamorous auditorium and stage, it hosts the Christmas Spectacular, starring the Radio City Rockettes, which means dance, music, stage effects, costumes, iconic high kicks and perfectly synchronized dances.
It was a classic New York Christmas experience, rather than just the visual sensation. The good thing was that I visited the Rockefeller center in the day till the evening and watched the show for the night.
Packing Tip: The music was loud there, so keeping a pair of earplugs was a good idea.
Photo Idea: I stood outside the Radio City Music Hall, pointing both hands toward it in a playful “ta-da!” pose.
Food Experience: I got a slice of pizza and a cheesecake as my late-night snack-cum-dinner.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park let me enjoy versatility of landscapes in one region, ranging from snow-covered mountains and a temperate rainforest to wild pacific coastline. This one was a warm-December experience.
The main attraction here was the Ruby beach, with towering sea stacks, powerful waves and stormy skies. Then I drove inland into the Hoh Rain Forest, which was calmer yet cheerful. I walked the Hall of Mosses, and witnessed enormous trees and hanging moss.
Packing Tip: It was wet, and fortunately I kept a raincoat and a waterproof bag.
Photo Idea: I got a click of myself standing among driftwood logs with one of the sea stacks in background.
Food Experience: I had a bit of Pacific salmon and a bowl of seafood chowder after I was done with my exploration.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
This is pure American pop culture. I looked down on the pavement and found names of entertainment icons in pink, star-shaped plaques. It was a long walk: thousands of stars along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. The fun part was spotting a name I was a big fan of and sharing it with my friends.
Along the walk, I visited the TCL Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre and looked for the Hollywood sign in the hills. When I stopped at the TCL Chinese Theatre, I found cement handprints, footprints and signatures from famous stars of Hollywood.
Packing Tip: I wore comfortable walking shoes and kept a selfie stick with me.
Photo Idea: I sat down on the pavement with my favorite ‘star’ and got a click.
Food Experience: I grabbed an In-N-Out burger as I treaded the Hollywood walk of fame.
San Antonio River Walk, Texas
The San Antonio River Walk is one of the best Christmas destinations in the USA. It gave a warm, festive vibe, reflected in a leafy waterside. I walked a bit then took a boat to absorb the liveliness of the place. In December, the Christmas lights reflected in the water and the cafes and restaurants along the riverside welcomed locals and tourists to the street food.
I took a river boat cruise to fully enjoy the experience. Then took a walk on foot: enjoyed the lights and grabbed some food. I also extended the walk and visited the Alamo.
Packing Tip: A mini clip-on phone light would have brightened my face at nighttime as I took photos, keeping the warm glow of Christmas lights intact.
Photo Idea: I had someone get a photo of me standing beside a tree with the river and the cafes in the background.
Food Experience: There was a lot of Tex-Mex cuisine there. I ate cheesy enchiladas and then sizzled fajitas along the riverside.
FAQs about 25 Best Places to visit in December in the USA
How warm are the warmer regions of USA in December?
For warm places to visit in December, such as Hawaii, parts of Florida and California, the average day time temperature in December is 20–27°C (68–81°F). Beach walks, swimming and outdoor activities are possible at this temperature. In Southern California, the temperature is mild rather than warm but still makes sightseeing and exploration comfortable.
How much time in advance should I book December travel and resorts in the USA?
December is obviously one of the busiest times for the travel and resort companies, especially for spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve on the best places to visit in December in USA. In general, I would plan my trip and book my tickets, activities and hotels 2-4 months before December. However, if I were planning something around Christmas or New Years Eve, or booking a very popular spot, I would book 6-8 prior to it.
For a snowy road trip in December, what items should I keep in my car?
For a safe and comfortable road trip, I would recommend keeping a snow brush, shovel, portable jump starter, a flashlight, power bank, water, snacks, extra warm clothing, and a first aid kit. Make sure to give a thorough check to vehicle tires, battery, breaks and windshield wipers and washer fluid. Plus, I made myself aware of all the emergency contacts and helplines.
