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 film – particularly throughout this month’s dazzling Christmas Lighting Festival which included a show of over half 1,000,000 twinkling lights.

In December (and thru January and February, as locals instructed me), snow-capped peaks and Christmas markets set the scene, and my favourite occasion was the family-friendly Village of Lights: Christmastown with Santa and Mrs. Claus appearances, cute gingerbread home shows, and even eerie Krampus characters from Austrian and German folklore roaming the streets.

I flew into Seattle, drove simply 2.5 hours, and spent a magical lengthy weekend staying on the romantic 4-star Storybook Riverside Inn absorbing Leavenworth’s snowy appeal – suppose dazzling gentle shows, snowshoeing and tubing on the Winter Sports Club, sipping mulled wine at festive stalls, sleigh rides by Icicle Valley, and even a cease on the delightfully quirky Nutcracker Museum.

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

My favourite highlights…

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

2. Waikiki, Hawaii

I discovered that this well-known beachfront neighborhood in Honolulu made an superior sizzling December trip! I discovered the climate was heat and sunny climate, with a vigorous however laid-back tropical ambiance the place I simply relaxed on pale golden sands, swam in calm turquoise waters, and loved beachfront eating with attractive views of Diamond Head.

There have been a number of heat rain showers, however truthfully, I didn’t thoughts – visiting early within the month meant lighter crowds and snagging some nice stays for much less! Also, alongside the world-class Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore, Honolulu was buzzing with festive cheer – from large shows at Honolulu City Lights to beachside vacation enjoyable.

Landing at Honolulu International, I dove straight into Waikiki’s laid-back vibes – sun-soaked seaside time, vacation buying on Kalakaua Avenue, and a front-row seat to the surf professionals 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 private highlights…

• Going for a dip within the sizzling tub and sipping on a divine Hibiscus Margarita on the stylish rooftop Na Lani Sky Lounge on the 4-star Hokulani Waikiki Hotel.

3. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

I stayed on the 4-star Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville final Christmas and was critically impressed—this sprawling, high-end Nashville lodge pulled out all of the festive stops!

During this month I discovered it had remodeled right into a critically dazzling vacation vacation spot with over 3 million Christmas lights, indoor snow tubing, ice skating, whimsical grottos, themed occasions festive riverboat rides by adorned indoor gardens, and a very magical ambiance that mixed luxurious with family-friendly vacation cheer – all beneath an unlimited, climate-controlled glass atrium!

I flew into Nashville International and spent a magical week wrapped in festive cheer – gliding throughout the ice rink, marveling on the hand-carved ICE! sculptures, strolling by twinkling indoor gardens, catching vacation exhibits, and becoming a member of the town’s vigorous Christmas Parade, all as a part of the dazzling “A Country Christmas” celebration.

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

My highlights…

• Going for a soothing scalp & hair remedy, steam bathtub and swim within the lap pool on the European-style Relâche Spa situated within the resort.
• Discovering the Honky-Tonks situated alongside Broadway – it was nice to see locals dancing alongside vacationers on the slim ground (between the tables and the stage) at Robert’s Western World! 

4. Siesta Key, Florida

I liked how this attractive barrier island off Florida’s Gulf Coast made a dreamy sizzling winter trip! I discovered that December was the least humid month, making it way more comfy for outside actions than the new, sticky summer time – but it was nonetheless heat and sunny sufficient for a much-needed winter Vitamin D repair!

I went early December so it was nonetheless thought-about low season and I discovered the powder-soft white sand seashores have been uncrowded, there have been some good offers on lodging, it was nonetheless heat sufficient to swim (nearly although I’ve to confess!) and there was a laid-back island vibe with festive vacation occasions and outside eating choices galore, however with out the winter chill!

I flew into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and spent a dreamy week on the cute Inn on Siesta Key kicking again on the award-winning white quartz sands of Siesta Beach, watching festive boats gentle up the water within the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade, exploring the charming Siesta Key Village, and having fun with outside eating, reside music, and Insta-worthy sundown 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 discovered that there was a definite magic after I visited New York City in the course of the Christmas season, which started in November and actually stepped up a gear throughout this month.

I found that the town had remodeled right into a magical winter wonderland with festive lights and vacation window shows, iconic seasonal points of interest just like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating at Bryant Park, and a vigorous vacation spirit.

I liked all of the seasonal exhibits and occasions just like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Santaland at Macy’s, the vacation markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, and the Hanukkah celebrations throughout the town. 

I flew into JFK worldwide airport and stayed for a enjoyable 5 days. I checked out the festive window shows alongside Fifth Avenue, took a twirl on Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, warmed up with a sizzling apple cider on the Winter Village at Bryant Park, went for a snow-dusted stroll in Central Park after which caught an iconic efficiency on the well-known 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 metropolis buzz meets winter wonderland
• Average December temperature – 4°C to 10°C

My favourite highlights…

• Staying on the Insta-worthy 4-star Moxy NYC Chelsea – I liked its putting botanical theme and the way the doorway foyer doubled as overgrown flower store! 
• Warming up with a connoisseur Ethiopian Matcha Latte on the cool Cafe Grumpy. 

6. Avila Beach, California

I used to be craving a dose of Vitamin D in the course of the winter months so I headed to this small, picturesque coastal city – it truly had some some of the warmest temperatures you could find in the entire of the nation throughout this month.

I found that it’s one of many warmest and sunniest microclimates on the Central California coast—even in December—because of its sheltered place in San Luis Obispo Bay and was hotter than close by coastal cities. I additionally stumbled throughout enjoyable occasions reminiscent of the lovable Santa’s Doggie Parade.

I drove 4 hours on the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles and stayed for a protracted weekend. I’ve to confess it wasn’t fairly heat sufficient to swim comfortably, so as a substitute I relaxed on the seaside, watched the surfers, hiked the peaceable Bob Jones Trail, took leisurely bike rides, soaked within the pure sizzling springs at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and hunted for distinctive seasonal items at Avila Valley Barn all with a quieter, crowd-free model of California’s Central Coast with festive lights and vacation appeal! 

• 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 twenty°C

My highlights…

• Staying in a set on the super-cute 4-star boutique inn Avila La Fonda Hotel, my room got here with a big sizzling tub, a microwave and several other baggage of complementary truffle honey popcorn.
• Going wine-tasting on the boutique Sinor-Lavallee Tasting Room – my spotlight was the velvety Pinot Noir Black Label! 

7. Whitefish, Montana

This premier ski vacation spot was an superior place to go to in December as a result of I discovered that its powdery slopes had come alive with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, festive vacation occasions, and comfortable mountain lodges, all set towards a surprising snow-covered backdrop simply minutes from the charming, twinkle-lit city of Whitefish and close to the sting of Glacier National Park.

I found there have been loads of occasions to become involved with too together with the Christmas Stroll which featured vacation music, images with Santa, carol singing, a tree lighting ceremony, and avenue artisans and meals distributors, 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 4 days. I hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort, joined within the occasions and warmed up with après-ski eating 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 comfy mountain city
• Average temperature – -6°C to 2°C

My favourite highlights… 

• Staying on the trendy however cozy Good Medicine Lodge – I liked their use of garden-grown herbs, in-house roasted espresso, natural cotton linens and regionally crafted toiletries together with huckleberry-scented cleaning soap!

8. Durango, Colorado

I took a singular December journey to this historic mountain city final 12 months and didn’t remorse my alternative! I found it had remodeled right into a snowy alpine escape the place snowboarding and snowboarding the place on supply on the close by Purgatory Resort, there have been charming holiday-decorated downtown outlets, and comfortable mountain-town vibes full with a backdrop of Insta-worthy snowy landscapes!

I noticed the previous gold and silver mining city had actually come alive with seasonal occasions too such because the family-friendly Festival of Trees & Wreaths on the Durango Train Museum, and the community-wide Noel Night celebration which featured native buying and festive reside 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 private highlights…

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

9. Williamsburg, Virginia

I discovered this ultra-charming historic gem of a metropolis made a magical pre-Christmas break throughout this month. I discovered that this postcard-pretty city had remodeled right into a festive colonial wonderland with candlelit streets, historic reenactments, and seasonal occasions at Colonial Williamsburg. I liked the comfortable, small-town appeal which was elevated by conventional decorations, carol singing, and sizzling cider by the fireplace! 

I attended the unimaginable listing of seasonal occasions which included the Grand Illumination which had fairly fireworks and candlelit streets, Busch Gardens Christmas Town which featured over 10 million lights and vacation exhibits, the gorgeous Williamsburg Christmas Parade with illuminated floats, and the Yorktown Christmas Market the place I went seasonal buying and watched festive leisure!

I flew into Newport News/Williamsburg Airport (PHF) and stayed for a photogenic 4 days on the romantic 4-star historic boutique Wedmore Place. Aside from all of the occasions, I shopped for seasonal treats, went to the wreath-making workshops, and skilled a colonial-style Christmas dinner on 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 appeal meets festive vacation magic
• Average temperature – 9°C to 13°C

My private highlights…

• Going on the Colonial Ghosts Haunted Williamsburg Night Tour – my favourite cease was the Peyton Randolph House which I used to be instructed by the information was okaynown as one of the haunted homes in America, with many stories of paranormal exercise!

10. Aspen, Colorado

I found that this upscale mountain city and ski resort was an excellent alternative for a winter break throughout this month!

I discovered that it had changed into a snow-covered alpine paradise with world-class snowboarding and snowboarding on 4 iconic mountains, I noticed fairly festive vacation lights illuminating downtown, an excellent après-ski scenes on the stylish lodges and bars, luxurious buying and eating, and a magical winter ambiance framed by the snowy peaks of the Colorado Rockies!

Although I’ve to be sincere, staying this time of 12 months positively wasn’t a budget-friendly choice nevertheless it was luxurious deal with as a substitute! I additionally received to go to festive occasions such because the 12 Days of Aspen which had live shows and fireworks and the 74th annual Wintersköl™ celebration which got here with snow sculptures, a soup contest, and a torchlight parade!

I drove 3.5 hours by scenic mountain routes from Denver and stayed for a beautiful 4 days on the trendy 4-star Aspen Meadows Resort indulging within the winter sports activities together with tubing at Elk Camp on Snowmass, in addition to sampling the well-known Après-Ski Culture (Bootsy Bellows and The Little Nell have been my favorites!), exploring the stylish 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 city
• Average temperature – -18°C to – 2°C

My private highlights…

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

11. Vermont

This scenic northeastern U.S. state, typically related to basic vacation imagery because of songs like Bing Crosby’s White Christmas, actually wowed throughout this month!

I discovered its picturesque cities had come alive with twinkling vacation lights and festive appeal, snow had blanketed the Green Mountains so the ski resorts have been in full swing and there was a stunning assortment of cozy inns, crackling fireplaces, and Christmas markets which all got here collectively to create a basic New England winter wonderland expertise!

I additionally discovered a great deal of seasonal occasions together with the Wassail Weekend in Woodstock which had festive parades and vacation markets, the Festival of Trees in St. Albans which featured adorned timber, enjoyable The Lake Morey Skate Trail,the comfortable Stowe Winter Carnival. Vermont Holiday Festival in Killington which was crammed with family-friendly actions. 

I flew into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and stayed on the ultra-charming 4-star Rabbit Hill Inn for an Insta-worthy two weeks. I went snowboarding at Stowe or Killington, shopped vacation markets in Burlington, and checked out the Christmas Markets – my favorites ended up being the vigorous 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 appeal
• Average temperatures – -4°C to 2°C

My private highlights…

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

12. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

This sprawling Gilded Age Mansion in Asheville fully wowed me on my December go to! I noticed that it had fully remodeled right into a magical vacation vacation spot with its grand halls, crackling log fires, festive carols, and 55-foot Christmas tree, all fantastically adorned. 

I additionally discovered candlelit night excursions of the mansion, festive music, dazzling lights all through all of the gardens and Antler Hill Village, and a heat, nostalgic ambiance that made it really feel like I used to be stepping right into a real-life Christmas story! 

I joined within the festive occasions which passed off this month which included the enchanting “Candlelight Christmas Evenings” which got here full with flickering candles and reside music, the gorgeous festive lights and shows in Antler Hill Village, complimentary seasonal wine tastings on the property’s vineyard, and Christmas buying and eating experiences all through the property.

I flew into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), drove 20 minutes and stayed on the distinctive and quirky 4-star Blind Tiger for a protracted weekend so after exploring the property for a two full days and attempting wreath-making and decoration crafting of their cute onsite seasonal workshops, I ventured downtown and explored its cute assortment of quirky outlets, wonderful eating places 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 magnificence
• Average temperature – -1°C to eight°C

My favourite highlights…

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

13. Solvang, California

I completely adored visiting this charming Danish-style metropolis throughout this month! I discovered that it had remodeled right into a festive wonderland throughout their annual ‘Julefest’, with twinkling lights, candlelit carolers, adorned streets, and comfortable bakeries which served heat aebleskivers and gløgg – all set towards the scenic Santa Ynez Valley backdrop! 

I found that the Julefest lasted all month and featured a tree lighting ceremony, a whimsical festive parade, a family-friendly Santa’s Village, candlelight excursions, nightly gentle and music exhibits, a Nisse Adventure scavenger hunt, seasonal markets and I discovered from locals that it completed 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 protracted weekend on the lovely and romantic 4-star The Landsby Hotel. Aside from becoming a member of within the festivities I browsed the stalls on the Makers Market and explored the distinctive Scandi-inspired structure, quaint outlets, cute bakeries and comfortable cafes crammed 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 vacation ambiance
• Average temperature – 16°C to 18°C

My private highlights…

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

14. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

I took a December break to this historic coastal metropolis and it completely charmed me! It was crammed with quaint brick-lined streets glowing with vacation lights, glowing historic houses in Strawbery Banke, and a waterfront downtown that felt like a comfy, snow-dusted winter postcard delivered to life! 

I adored the way it actually had come alive with festive occasions such because the Candlelight Stroll the place historic houses have been adorned with handmade decorations and illuminated by candlelight, the Illuminated Holiday Parade on December 7, featured lighted floats and neighborhood performances, the Gingerbread House Exhibition at Portsmouth Historical Society, showcased inventive confections, and I heard from locals that they’d organized the First Night Portsmouth for December 31 to see within the New Year!

I drove an hour from Boston and stayed for a singular lengthy weekend. I strolled by the illuminated streets, joined within the occasions and shopped and dined within 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 appeal
• Average temperature – 4°C to three°C

My private highlights… 

• Staying on the attractive 4-star historic boutique The Hotel Portsmouth – I liked the way it nonetheless featured the crown moldings, woodwork, and fireplaces and I liked the lovable classic pink phone field too!

15. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

Visiting this historic metropolis throughout this month turned out to be an excellent alternative! Known as “Christmas City USA.” The locals instructed me that it had a festive vibe all 12 months spherical however I discovered this month to be magical – in my expertise it was probably the greatest Christmas cities to go to!

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

I drove two hours from New York City and spent a protracted weekend on the cozy and romantic 4-star Sayre Mansion. I joined within the packed calendar of occasions which had been working since late November which included the opening of the Christkindlmarkt a big indoor market with German meals and music, the outside Christmas City Village, with had conventional picket huts promote meals, handmade crafts and artisanal treasures.

I additionally liked exploring all of the unbiased outlets, sipping on genuine German Glühwein, discovering the entertaining and eccentric Living Advent Calendar, which was held every day at 5:30pm at The Goundie House and discovering the attention-grabbing 18th-century buildings, museums and church buildings within the fairly Historic Moravian District.

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

My private highlights…

• Searching for distinctive Christmas items within the stylish Domaci store – the Bethlehem Skyline Cutting Boards and retro Vinyl Floorcloths have been stand out objects!

16. Crystal Beach, Texas

I discovered this family-friendly seaside made a singular and eco-friendly December break! It was a peaceable, low season coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of the vacations, with delicate climate, wide-open drive-on seashores excellent for lengthy walks and beachcombing, fewer crowds, and exquisite sunrises over the Gulf.

It was additionally very reasonably priced throughout this month in addition to being not so many vacationers and nice alternatives for recognizing dolphins and migratory birds.

I’ve to confess it wasn’t fairly heat sufficient to swim comfortably this time of 12 months however there have been loads of enjoyable occasions on to make up for that such because the Bolivar Christmas Market the place I discovered native crafts and a tree lighting ceremony, the Crystaland Christmas Parade which featured adorned golf carts and a Santa look, and reside vacation music performances at Camp Margaritaville Crystal Beach.

I flew into William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston and spent a soothing week on the trendy self-catering 4-star Beachfront House, paddling within the waves, going to the seasonal occasions, attempting the native delicacies and simply absorbing 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 favourite highlights…

• Watching the toe-tapping Brandon McDermott Band play reside on the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe.  
• Dining on the patio at Crystal Chandelier – each their wholesome energy bowls and hearty plates of fish and chips have been equally as tasty!

17. North Pole, Alaska

I took a visit to this small metropolis close to Fairbanks recognized for its year-round Christmas theme throughout this month I didn’t remorse it! I discovered snow-covered streets, dazzling Christmas lights, and iconic Santa Claus House which created a magical, festive wonderland the place I met Santa, mailed postcards from the “North Pole,” and soaked up the vacation spirit in a real-life winter setting! 

I liked that they hosted quite a lot of occasions throughout this month together with the annual Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar which was crammed with native crafts and fireworks, the Christmas in Ice exhibition which had spectacular ice carvings and slides, and ongoing celebrations on the Santa Claus House, which included visits with Santa and distinctive vacation buying. 

I flew into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), after which drove about quarter-hour southeast. I spent two days visiting the well-known Santa Claus House, admiring the dazzling gentle shows alongside Santa Claus Lane, having fun with the festive occasions and sending a postcard stamped with an actual 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 city
• Average temperature – –23°C to –13°C

My private highlights… 

• Staying on the close by Insta-worthy Wilding Hotels Fairbanks – it was unimaginable to get up to the pristine surrounding wilderness from the consolation of my mattress courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling glass partitions! 

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