Top 14 Best Places To Go In December In US

December in America offers endless possibilities, from snow-covered peaks in Aspen to sun-soaked beaches in Miami. Whether you crave winter wonderlands in Vermont, desert warmth in Las Vegas, or tropical escapes in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, the country transforms into a traveler's paradise during the holiday season.

Keep reading as we uncover the best places to go in December in US that will make your winter getaway unforgettable.

1. Aspen Colorado: Powder and Prestige

Aspen in December means fresh powder and fewer crowds than peak season. The town transforms into a winter postcard with Victorian buildings dusted in snow and four world-class ski mountains within reach.

Buttermilk Mountain offers gentler slopes for beginners, while Aspen Mountain challenges experts with steep terrain. The free shuttle system connects all four mountains, making it easy to explore different runs throughout your stay.

I remember standing at the top of Ajax Mountain one December morning, watching the sun paint the Elk Mountains gold. That moment reminded me why Aspen remains America's most iconic ski destination.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: Mid-December through March
  
• Getting there: Fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport or drive from Denver (4 hours)
  
• Entrance fees: Lift tickets vary by mountain
  
• Suggested stay: 4-5 days
  
• Key spots: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands
  

2. Lake Tahoe California: Alpine Serenity

Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear waters remain unfrozen even when snow blankets the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks. December brings perfect skiing conditions at Heavenly and Northstar, plus the chance to experience the lake's winter magic.

The contrast strikes you immediately—pristine white slopes dropping toward impossibly blue water. Take the gondola at Heavenly for panoramic views that stretch across two states.

Locals know to visit Emerald Bay early in the morning when mist rises from the water and creates an ethereal atmosphere you won't find during summer's busy months.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December through April
  
• Getting there: Drive from San Francisco (3.5 hours) or Reno (1 hour)
  
• Entrance fees: State park fees for some areas
  
• Suggested stay: 3-4 days
  
• Key spots: Emerald Bay, Heavenly Ski Resort, Northstar, South Lake Tahoe
  

3. Vermont: Small Towns, Big Character

Vermont's December landscape looks like a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Small towns like Stowe and Killington offer authentic New England charm without the commercial overwhelm of larger destinations.

The skiing here feels different—more intimate, with trails winding through maple forests and past frozen streams. Local sugarhouses start preparing for spring's maple season, offering tastings of last year's harvest.

Christmas tree farms dot the countryside, where families bundle up to cut their own trees while drinking hot cider from thermoses. It's December as it should be—simple and real.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: Mid-December through March
  
• Getting there: Drive from Boston (3 hours) or fly into Burlington
  
• Entrance fees: Varies by ski resort
  
• Suggested stay: 4-6 days
  
• Key spots: Stowe, Killington, Manchester, Woodstock, Mount Snow
  

4. Miami Florida: Tropical December

Miami flips December on its head. While most of America bundles up, South Beach basks in 80-degree weather and gentle ocean breezes. Art Basel transforms the city into a cultural playground during the first week of December.

The beaches are perfect—warm sand, calm waves, and none of summer's oppressive humidity. Collins Avenue buzzes with outdoor cafes and rooftop bars that would be unthinkable anywhere else in winter.

You can surf in the morning, explore the Wynwood murals in the afternoon, and dance salsa under the stars. Miami's December energy feels electric and endless.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December through April
  
• Getting there: Miami International Airport, direct flights from most major cities
  
• Entrance fees: Most beaches are free
  
• Suggested stay: 4-5 days
  
• Key spots: South Beach, Wynwood, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne
  

5. San Diego California: Perfect Weather Capital

San Diego delivers what feels like perpetual spring in December. Temperatures hover around 70 degrees with clear skies and minimal rain—ideal conditions for exploring Balboa Park or catching waves in La Jolla.

The city's outdoor lifestyle continues year-round here. Hiking trails in Mission Trails Regional Park offer desert views and wildflower blooms that defy the calendar. The beaches remain swimmable for the brave.

Local surfers call December “the secret season”—fewer tourists, consistent swells, and that magical golden light that photographers chase across Southern California.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: Year-round, but less crowded in December
  
• Getting there: San Diego International Airport
  
• Entrance fees: Most attractions have separate fees
  
• Suggested stay: 5-7 days
  
• Key spots: Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, Sunset Cliffs, Mission Beach, Gaslamp Quarter
  

6. Hawaii: Island Time in Winter

Hawaii's December weather runs a steady 75-85 degrees with trade winds keeping humidity comfortable. The north shores of all islands receive their biggest swells, creating world-class surfing conditions and dramatic wave-watching opportunities.

Maui's Road to Hana becomes less crowded, making the winding journey more peaceful. Oahu's North Shore hosts surfing competitions that draw the world's best wave riders to Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

I've watched sunrise from Haleakala crater on a December morning, standing above the clouds while most of America scraped ice from windshields. That's the magic Hawaii offers when winter feels endless elsewhere.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December through April
  
• Getting there: Direct flights to Honolulu, Maui, Kona, or Lihue
  
• Entrance fees: Some state parks charge parking fees
  
• Suggested stay: 7-10 days
  
• Key spots: Waikiki, North Shore, Road to Hana, Haleakala, Volcanoes National Park
  

7. Puerto Rico: No Passport Paradise

Puerto Rico combines tropical beauty with American convenience—no passport required, US currency accepted, and cell phones work normally. December brings perfect weather with temperatures in the low 80s and minimal rainfall.

Old San Juan's cobblestone streets and colorful buildings create an authentic Caribbean atmosphere. El Yunque rainforest offers hiking trails and waterfalls just an hour from the city.

The bioluminescent bay in Vieques glows brightest on dark December nights. Kayaking through these glowing waters feels like paddling through liquid stars—an experience that redefines magical.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December through April
  
• Getting there: Direct flights to San Juan from most US cities
  
• Entrance fees: Some attractions charge admission
  
• Suggested stay: 5-7 days
  
• Key spots: Old San Juan, El Yunque, Flamenco Beach, Bioluminescent Bay, Camuy Caves
  

8. Everglades Florida: Winter Wildlife Spectacular

December marks peak season for Everglades wildlife viewing. Cooler temperatures bring animals to water sources, making alligators, manatees, and hundreds of bird species easier to spot. The famous “dry season” creates ideal conditions for hiking and photography.

Anhinga Trail becomes a natural zoo where alligators sun themselves just feet from the boardwalk. Great blue herons, ibises, and egrets gather in impressive numbers at Flamingo and Shark Valley.

The mosquitoes disappear in December, transforming what can be a buggy nightmare into a peaceful wilderness experience. Sunrise and sunset light here creates some of America's most dramatic nature photography opportunities.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December through April
  
• Getting there: Drive from Miami (1 hour) or Fort Lauderdale (1.5 hours)
  
• Entrance fees: $30 per vehicle for 7 days
  
• Suggested stay: 2-3 days
  
• Key spots: Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley, Flamingo, Pa-hay-okee Overlook, Mahogany Hammock
  

9. New York City New York: Holiday Magic Unleashed

New York transforms into a holiday wonderland in December. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree draws millions, but the city's real magic happens in smaller moments—window shopping along Fifth Avenue, ice skating in Central Park, or catching a Broadway show on a snowy evening.

The Metropolitan Museum and MoMA become warm refuges between outdoor adventures. Holiday markets pop up across the city, selling everything from handmade crafts to hot chocolate that actually tastes good.

Central Park covered in fresh snow creates a different city entirely. The usual urban noise gets muffled, and familiar paths become winter hiking trails in the heart of Manhattan.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: December is busy but magical
  
• Getting there: Three major airports, extensive public transit
  
• Entrance fees: Many attractions charge admission
  
• Suggested stay: 4-6 days
  
• Key spots: Times Square, Central Park, 9/11 Memorial, Brooklyn Bridge, High Line
  

10. New Orleans Louisiana: Mild Weather, Hot Music

December in New Orleans means comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds—perfect for exploring the French Quarter without summer's oppressive heat and humidity. The city's famous music scene heats up indoors as venues fill with both tourists and locals escaping cooler weather.

Jackson Square and the Mississippi riverfront become pleasant for walking. Street performers and artists set up along Royal Street, creating an outdoor gallery atmosphere that flows naturally from cafe to jazz club.

The food scene reaches its peak during cooler months. Gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets taste even better when you're not sweating through your shirt while eating them.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: October through May
  
• Getting there: Louis Armstrong International Airport
  
• Entrance fees: Most outdoor areas are free
  
• Suggested stay: 3-4 days
  
• Key spots: French Quarter, Garden District, Bourbon Street, Preservation Hall, Magazine Street
  

11. Savannah Georgia: Southern Charm in Winter

Savannah's December weather hovers around 60-70 degrees—perfect for walking the historic squares and admiring antebellum architecture without Georgia's summer heat. The city decorates its 24 public squares with tasteful holiday lighting that enhances rather than overwhelms the natural beauty.

Horse-drawn carriage tours become comfortable rather than sweltering. The Spanish moss draped from ancient oak trees creates a gothic romance that feels especially atmospheric in winter's softer light.

River Street's cobblestone walkway along the Savannah River offers restaurants and shops in restored 19th-century cotton warehouses. The trolley tours actually become pleasant rides instead of mobile saunas.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: March through May and October through December
  
• Getting there: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
  
• Entrance fees: Most squares are free to explore
  
• Suggested stay: 2-3 days
  
• Key spots: Historic District, Forsyth Park, River Street, Telfair Museums, Bonaventure Cemetery
  

12. Washington DC: Museums and Monuments Minus Crowds

Washington DC in December offers comfortable walking weather and significantly smaller crowds at major attractions. The Smithsonian museums become cozy retreats, and the National Mall's monuments take on a different character under winter light.

The Kennedy Center and Phillips Collection offer world-class cultural experiences without fighting summer tourist hordes. Georgetown's M Street provides excellent shopping and dining in a more intimate setting.

Standing alone at the Lincoln Memorial on a quiet December evening, with the Washington Monument reflecting in the still water, reminds you why this city inspires people from around the world.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: Spring and fall, but winter offers advantages
  
• Getting there: Reagan National, Dulles, or BWI airports
  
• Entrance fees: Most museums and monuments are free
  
• Suggested stay: 3-4 days
  
• Key spots: National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Arlington Cemetery
  

13. Las Vegas Nevada: Desert Winter Refuge

Las Vegas in December trades summer's 115-degree heat for comfortable 60-degree days and 40-degree nights. The Strip becomes walkable again, and outdoor attractions like Red Rock Canyon offer perfect hiking conditions.

The shows, restaurants, and casinos operate year-round, but December brings special holiday productions and decorations that transform the desert city into an unexpected winter wonderland. The pools may be closed, but everything else opens up.

Valley of Fire State Park, just an hour drive away, offers some of America's most dramatic red rock scenery without the crowds that pack it during milder spring and fall months.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: September through May
  
• Getting there: McCarran International Airport
  
• Entrance fees: Varies by attraction
  
• Suggested stay: 3-5 days
  
• Key spots: The Strip, Fremont Street, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam
  

14. Charleston South Carolina: Low Country Winter

Charleston's December weather stays mild with temperatures in the 60s, making it perfect for exploring the historic district's cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions. The famous gardens at Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place remain beautiful even in winter dormancy.

The horse-drawn carriage tours become comfortable rather than stifling. Rainbow Row's pastel houses photograph beautifully in winter's softer light, and the outdoor restaurants along East Bay Street remain pleasant for dining.

Folly Beach offers winter beach walks with fewer crowds and dramatic storm-watching opportunities. The shrimp boats still work the waters, and local seafood reaches its peak during the cooler months.

Quick Facts:

• Peak season: March through May and September through November
  
• Getting there: Charleston International Airport
  
• Entrance fees: Some historic homes charge admission
  
• Suggested stay: 2-3 days
  
• Key spots: Historic District, Rainbow Row, Magnolia Plantation, Folly Beach, Market Street
  

December Awaits Your Adventure

The best places to go in December in US offer something for every traveler's winter dreams. Whether you're carving fresh powder in Aspen's high country or watching sunset paint Miami's Art Deco skyline pink, America's December destinations deliver experiences that last long after the holiday lights come down.

Pack your bags for snow-covered mountains or sun-warmed beaches. Book that flight to a desert oasis or historic southern city. Your perfect December adventure is waiting somewhere on this list.

The hardest part isn't choosing where to go—it's deciding which amazing destination to save for next year's winter escape.