12 Best U.S. Cities to Visit in December

Looking to escape the holiday madness? Or are you looking to get in the holiday spirit? Whether it’s a tropical oasis or bustling city under fresh snow, there’s a U.S. city for you in December.

Up north, the holiday spirit is alive with parades, extended shopping hours, extravagant tree-lighting festivals and elegant displays. Snow angels in Central Park and downhill skiing in the Rockies included!

Down South, things are more subdued. You won’t find much snow in December and the water along the coast is warm enough for a refreshing dip. Watching the sun set over the ocean is a nice treat. Disappearing into the desert is a welcoming experience if you’re from a colder climate!

Breckenridge, Colorado

It’s cold in Breckenridge in December but that’s part of the appeal. The holidays come to life in this historic little town surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks.

Stroll down Main Street under the holiday lights and browse hundreds of shops. Or better yet, explore via horse-drawn sleigh ride. Fancy some outdoor play? Try dog sledding, skating, snowmobiling or snowshoeing.

Of course, skiing is always on the table in this resort town. The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down either. With dozens of bars, a vibrant music scene and relaxing après ski vibes, you’ll want to stay out all night!

New York City, New York

Romanticized in movies. Flooded with visitors from all over each December. New York City, The Big Apple, a December destination that dreams are made of.

Temperatures dip in December. That makes it all that more exciting. Governors Island and its winter village is where you can get cozy around a fire pit after sledding and skating.

Bustling markets are fun to explore. Rockefeller Center is a hub of activity with an enormous Christmas tree. Beautiful art is displayed at Metropolitan Museum of Art.

You’re visit isn’t complete without a show and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes is a fitting one!

Miami, Florida

Does relaxing on a sandy beach after a refreshing dip in the ocean sound like the ultimate winter escape? Or maybe lively nightclubs along palm-lined streets is more your scene.

This is Miami. It has the best of both worlds and more! Catch a live performance of The Nutcracker at the Arsht Center or be mesmerized by a holiday boat parade complete with lights and festive music. Enjoy thrilling rides and a carnival atmosphere at Santa’s Enchanted Forest.

The weather is sure to be fabulous so Golfing and sailing aren’t off the table in Miami in December. Bonus: you won’t have to pack much clothing for this vacation!

Denver, Colorado

Yes, the spectacular Rocky Mountains are nearby but there’s more to Denver than snowcapped mountain peaks. For one, the sun is almost always shining, even in December!

The city is known for its distinctive art and many works are on display at the Denver Art Museum. Blossoms of Light is a must-see but a stroll through the holiday market of Larimer Square is just as charming.

Free ice skating is available at Downtown Denver Rink and you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding in many of the city’s parks.

Unwind at Oakwell Beer Spa where you can indulge in some unique spa experiences while sipping craft beer.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Sin city in December? Why not? The weather is nice, casinos are bustling with holiday cheer and there are even more lights than usual! Missing is the large crowds of summer.

Be sure to take in a holiday show. There are many to choose from! Just like every hotel has a casino, every hotel in December has a fabulous light display. Walking the Strip in December takes on a new meaning!

The famous Boulevard Pool becomes a skating rink in winter. Gliding around under the lights adds a magical touch to your getaway. Fremont Street, The Neon Museum and the city’s mainstay attractions are open too.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

It snows in December in Santa Fe and the temperatures dip too. This doesn’t mean the sun takes a break! The conditions are ideal for enjoying outdoor festivities and downhill skiing in the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Culture and architecture loom large. You can enjoy both at Santa Fe Plaza and Palace of the Governors or with a leisurely stroll through the Historic District.

Pueblo Feast Days is a cultural event showcasing Native American traditions. Winter Spanish Market is a one-stop especially if you’re seeking one-of-a-kind handmade items and local art. Entreflamenco is a lively Spanish Cabaret and dinner theater featuring delicious food and captivating dance.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Say Aloha to warm temperatures, sunny skies, cheaper prices and tropical landscapes when you visit Honolulu in December.

This capital city on the island of Oahu is big on history. Learn about its military and Polynesian history at various sites including Iolani Palace, USS Arizona Memorial, and Polynesian Cultural Center.

Prefer to be outdoors in that warm Pacific breeze? Head to Diamond Head State Monument for some hiking around a dormant Volcano or go on a whale watching tour.

Explore the city and enjoy the festive lights and bustling markets. Or take a scenic drive to the North Shore to watch world-class surfing.

Charleston, South Carolina

Not too hot, not too cold. In December, the weather is just right for exploring Charleston and walking miles and miles of stunning sandy beaches.

The historic downtown is known for its art and music scenes. One of the best ways to explore it is with a romantic carriage ride through the old city streets. Equally dreamy is a candlelit tour of a lavish estate.

Sit down to a warm down home southern meal at one of Charleston’s cozy restaurants. Get in the holiday spirit at the Holiday Festival of Lights, Santa’s Village and Aquarium Aglow.

Chicago, Illinois

It’s cold and windy so dress warm if you travel to Chicago in December! It’s a good thing there are many cozy cafes and fun indoor exhibits to explore.

Chicago is known for food, architecture and museums. Escape the cold and explore Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Field Museum and the Art Institute. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry hosts the Christmas Around the World Exhibit

Brave the cold and take a stroll along Chicago Riverwalk or go Ice Skating at Millennium Park.

Chilly evenings are perfect for enjoying a cocktail while taking in a live Jazz set at one of Chicago’s famed bars.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is where you’ll experience a central European Christmas atmosphere without leaving the U.S. Bavarian-style architecture, traditional German cuisine and a steady flow of craft brews make for a fantastic winter getaway.

It’s cold and snowy in December. That shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a sleigh ride, skiing and admiring the enchanting light displays at Christmas Town. The Bavarian Ice Festival is also worth checking out.

When you don’t feel like braving the elements, there’s always the Nutcracker Museum and Gingerbread Factory to explore. Traveling from Seattle? Consider taking the Leavenworth Christmas Train and enjoy holiday Entertainment while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Moab, Utah

Imagine a desert landscape covered in light snow. There’s nothing quite like it especially when it’s the red arches of Moab against all that white!

While it does snow, the temperatures aren’t bad in December. It’s mild enough to hike in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Head to the outskirts to enjoy some of the best stargazing in the country! Browse little shops and relax in cozy cafes in the delightful downtown district.

When it’s too cold to head outdoors, take a mini road trip along scenic La Sal Mountain Loop. Moab Giants Museum is a must for anyone fascinated by natural History.

Asheville, North Carolina

Ashville’s Biltmore Estate is popular anytime but in December, it’s the main draw! Christmas trees, light displays and holiday candlelight events are a few of the draws to this historic estate.

Mild temperatures mean you can enjoy hiking or a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Be sure to check out the entries to the annual Gingerbread House Competition. In December, Grove Arcade is transformed into an enchanting winter village with holiday light displays, shops and activities.

Art lovers enjoy the Appalachian-inspired works at Folk Art Center. History buffs and gamers get a kick out of the classic games on display at the Pinball Museum.