14 Amazing Places To Visit In December In The USA

1. Leavenworth, Washington 

It was a truly magical experience staying in this picturesque Bavarian-style village during this mont! I found an entire town aglow with over half a million lights for its world-famous Christmas Lighting Festival.

December, January and February are the snowiest months of the year and I loved that it had a cozy snow-covered Bavarian village atmosphere complete with carolers, holiday treats, sleigh rides, and visits from Santa – making it feel like I’d stepped into a real-life holiday postcard – seriously!

There were snow-capped peaks, Christmas markets, and it was also a very busy month for events – my favorite was the locally famous family-friendly Village of Lights: Christmastown where even Santa and Mrs. Claus made appearances and there were super-cute gingerbread house displays too and even scary looking Krampus (from Austrian and German folklore). 

I flew into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, drover 2.5 hours and stayed for a magical long weekend. That was enough to gaze at the dazzling light displays, go snowshoeing and tubing at Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, sip mulled wine at Christkindlmarkt-style stalls, take a scenic sleigh ride through Icicle Valley and the quirkyNutcracker Museum. 

• Visitor’s center address: 940 US Hwy 2 STE B, Leavenworth, WA 98826
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 1°C to -6°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on a tasty vegan hot dog and sauerkraut at the cozy München Haus.

2. 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! 

• Location: San Luis Obispo Bay, 160 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 18°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 and a microwave complete with free truffle honey popcorn.
• Going wine-tasting at the boutique Sinor-Lavallee Tasting Room – my highlight was the velvety Pinot Noir Black Label! 

3. 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 I went skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Purgatory Resort, explored charming holiday-decorated downtown shops, and enjoyed cozy mountain-town vibes 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 live music. 

• Visitor Center Address: 802 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301
• Map Location
• Average temperatures – 5 to -10°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   

4. Waikiki, Hawaii

I can never get enough of Waikiki! Waikiki is a much-loved vibrant neighborhood located in Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii (on the south shore of Oahu island).

I adored its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, dreamy luxury hotels resorts, boutique store-dotted neighborhoods, chic waterfront areas, upscale dining experiences and watching the dare-devil surfers! 

It’s a great option for warm-weather getaway during the winter holidays and although it can be moderately rainy, the rainfalls are usually brief. I like that the early part of this month usually has fewer crowds and I can find good deals on accommodation too.

Alternatively, spend the seasonal holidays here and enjoy a beautiful, warm Christmas vacation surrounded by paradise-like scenery!

• Visitors Center Address: 159 Kaʻiulani Ave # 102, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 28°C

My personal highlights…

• Going for a dip in the hot tub and sipping on tropical cocktails at the rooftop Na Lani Sky Lounge at Hokulani Waikiki.
• Hiking the jaw-dropping Diamond Head State Monument, a volcanic crater with superb panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean! 
• Attending the fabulous House Without A Key accompanied by a Halekulani Hula Show at the Halekulani Hotel.  
• Going snorkelling at the beautiful Sans Souci Beach and spotting a super-cute sea turtle! 

5. New York

I absolutely adore The Big Apple for its vibrant neighborhoods, incredible shopping and world-class attractions and I always think there’s an undeniable magic in New York City during the Christmas season, which begins in November and steps up a gear during this month.

My favorite seasonal ritual is checking out the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, taking a twirl on Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, warming up with a hot apple cider at the Winter Village at Bryant Park, going for a snowy stroll through Central Park and then catching a performance at the famous Nutcracker Ballet! 

I also recommend attending the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, Santaland at Macy’s, and the opening of the wonderful Holiday Markets – the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market were my favorites.

• Visitors Center Address: 810 Seventh Avenue, between 52nd & 53rd Streets, New York City, NY 10019. 
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 7°C

My favorite highlights…

6. Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key, a picturesque barrier island, is located off the southwestern coast of Florida along the Gulf of Mexico and to me this place is like paradise!

I’m a big fan of its relaxed vibe, free-spirited beach lifestyle and its stunning public beach that has earned the title of being the best beach in America – not once, but twice!

I’d highly recommend it for a warm winter vacation with less humidity and plenty of sun and Vitamin D. Towards the beginning of the month I love that there’s fewer crowds and good deals on hotels too!

It’s just about warm enough to swim comfortably the shallow waters on Siesta Beach and Crescent Beach are perfect for families and for those who just want to paddle.

• Tourist Office Address: 5223 Avenida Navarra, Siesta Key, FL 34242
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 23°C

My highlights…

• Going for happy hour cocktails at the buzzy Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.
• Snorkeling at the Point of Rocks, which are an incredible series of unique limestone rock formations.
• Exploring the fine array of boutique shops and cafes in Siesta Key Village.

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is an ultra-charming historic gem of a city located in southeastern Virginia. I’m a big fan of its well-preserved colonial houses, beautiful surroundings, interesting history and its quirky living history museums! 

During the Christmas season, I love that the picture-perfect town becomes even more magical with twinkling lights and colonial-style festive decorations casting a magical spell over its streets. Blanketed in a layer of powdery snow, in my view it resembles a scene from a fairytale! 

When here I always make sure I attend the Grand Illumination event (held on the first weekend of the month), the holiday markets in Merchants Square, the wreath-making workshops, and experiencing a tasty colonial-style Christmas dinner at a historic tavern – here meals are served by candlelight and sometimes come accompanied with storytelling! For me it’s Christmas bliss!

• Tourist Office Address: 421 N Boundary Street | Williamsburg, VA 23185
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 12°C

My personal highlights…

• Going on a superb candlelight tour of the beautiful historic home. 
• Attending an atmospheric Christmas Carol concert at Kimball Theatre. 
• Going on a fun seasonal tavern crawl combined with a spooky ghost tour! 

8. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a famous luxury hotel resort located in Nashville, Tennessee. I seriously love this place! It’s a huge place and is home to a very impressive glass atrium! 

If you’re seeking a festive Christmas extravaganza that goes all out, then in my opinion look no further!

I’m always captivated at how Gaylord Opryland has a breathtaking transformation at Christmas – it’s adorned with over three million twinkling lights and enchanting family-friendly seasonal attractions such as enchanting ice tunnels, an indoor ice skating rink, whimsical grottos, festive scavenger hunts and the ICE! (an interactive ice sculpture experience).

I love exploring the rest of the legendary ‘Music City’ and all the festivities going on this time of year including the Nashville Christmas Parade, the toe-tapping Grand Ole Opry Holiday Shows, the picturesque Walk Through Cheekwood Holiday LIGHTS and the classic holiday ballet the Nutcracker which was a very magical watch! 

• Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 11°C

My highlights…

• Going the fun and interesting Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour and learning all about the whiskey-making and even how they make their own barrels!
• Experiencing a soothing stone massage at the European-inspired Relâche Spa located in the resort.
• Discovering the live country musics shows in the Honky-Tonks located along Broadway.

9. Aspen, Colorado

Located in the Rocky Mountains, this is one of the most prestigious winter resorts in the country! It always captivates me with its snowy slopes, incredible mountain scenery, awesome outdoor adventures, chic upscale resorts and vibrant social scene! 

Okay I’m going to be honest, staying this time of year definitely isn’t budget-friendly, but if you can afford it’s truly magical!

I adore the cozy log cabins decorated with twinkling lights, the air filled with the scent of hot toddies, the streets lined with festive decorations, and the merry sound of Christmas carols in the background! 

I love all that they offer skiing for all abilities, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and romantic outdoor ice skating rinks too!

On my visit I loved sampling the famous Après-Ski Culture (try Bootsy Bellows or The Little Nell!), exploring the chic boutiques and discovering Aspen’s high-end restaurant scene. I highly recommend the acclaimed sushi Matsuhisa restaurant and the creative American restaurant Element 47! 

• Aspen Chamber Resort Association Address: 425 Rio Grande Place 81611 Aspen
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 2°C to -12°C

My personal highlights…

• Having fun tubing at Elk Camp on Snowmass.
• Going on a festive snowplough tour!
• Going for festive drinks at the lively Ajax Tavern.

10. Crystal Beach, Texas

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Bolivar Peninsula in Texas I love this charming and peaceful coastal gem! I’m always captivated by the gorgeous sandy beaches, interesting wildlife, family-friendly amenities and the laid back, eco-friendly vibe it has!

I personally think it’s a great choice for a chilled, low-key getaway that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

This time of year I love that there are fewer crowds, I get better deal on accommodation rates and there are great opportunities for spotting dolphins and migratory birds. There’s also truly stunning sunsets to gaze at!

It’s not quite warm enough to swim comfortably this time of year but I relax on the beach, paddle, try the local cuisine and just soak up the laid-back coastal vibes!

• Average temperature – 17°C
• Map Location
• Visitors Center Address: 2275 TX-87 Suite 10 #2621, Crystal Beach, TX 77650

My favorite highlights…

• Watching awesome live country music at Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe.  
• Dining at Crystal Chandelier – both their healthy power bowls and hearty plates of fish and chips were equally as tasty!
• Playing a fun round of miniature golf at The Gulf Range.

11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

This sprawling Gilded Age Mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina always wows me when I visit! Built in the 19th century, it’s actually the largest privately owned home in the whole country and is filled with beautiful ornate furnishings and wonderful gardens.

The seasonal festivities at Biltmore Estate start early November with the grand raising of a huge Christmas tree and then the house and I love how the grounds are filled with thousands of twinkling lights, hand-decorated trees, candles, garlands, crackling log fires and festive carols.

I enjoyed exploring the illuminated Biltmore Winery at Antler Hill Village and Asheville itself with its cute collection of shops, cultural attractions, excellent restaurants and seasonal markets.

• Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 10°C

My favorite highlights…

• Going for a hearty English-style traditional festive meal at cozy Cedric’s Tavern with a side dish of warm homemade pretzels! 
• Trying wreath-making and ornament crafting at their cute onsite seasonal workshops. 

12. Vermont

The postcard-pretty state is located in the northeastern part of the country. I think it’s a gem of a place and I’m always won over by its stunning natural beauty, pretty leafy towns, ski resorts, a vibrant art and cultural scene and New England charm! 

Immortalized by films like White Christmas, Vermont has become known as the perfect state to celebrate the holiday season!

This month, I love that its quaint villages and historic towns become adorned with wreaths, sparkling lights and decorated trees, town squares bustle with the graceful glides of ice skaters and The Polar Express Train sounds its horn! 

I aways enjoy experiencing the Annual Wassail Weekend in Woodstock, which features merry carol singers, cute craft workshops, and beautifully decorated open houses, as well as the fun The Lake Morey Skate Trail and the cozy Stowe Winter Carnival.

I also suggest checking out the many Holiday Markets in the region – I personally think some of the best are Burlington Holiday Market, Very Merry Middlebury and Grafton Christmas Market. 

• Visitors Center Address: 680 North Main St., Route 2. Alburgh, VT 05440
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 3.5°C

My personal highlights…

• Going fat biking at The Stowe Recreation Path (which was awesome)!
• Hunting for unique artisan seasonal gifs at Vermont Holiday Market.
• Attending the family-friendly Grafton Christmas Tree Lighting and Festival.

13. Solvang, California

I’m hugely fond of this charming European-style gem which is often referred to as the “Danish Capital of America.”

It’s located Santa Ynez Valley of California not too far from Santa Barbara and I’m always captivated by its unique Scandi-inspired architecture, independent shops, cute bakeries and cozy cafes that give ‘hygge’ vibes. 

I recommend visiting during this month for the incredible ‘Julefest’, a month-long holiday celebration where the whole place turns into a magical winter wonderland! 

I adore the decorated streets, thousands of twinkling lights, Christmas markets, candlelight tours, carol singing and the annual tree lighting ceremony.

I also suggest not missing the annual whimsical Julefest Parade where festive floats glide through the town and the family-friendly Santa’s Village where kids can meet Santa Claus! 

• Visitor Center Address: 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 20°C

My personal highlights…

• Paying a visit to the legendary all-year round Christmas store Jule Hus, I especially loved the cute glass blown ornaments!
• Dining an organic, gluten-free Nordic-style lunch at the quaint Actor’s Corner Cafe. If you’re a wine fan I recommend trying the imported Italian wine!

14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 

Founded by Moravian settlers on Christmas Eve in the 18th century, Bethlehem is an interesting historic town located in the Lehigh Valley Pennsylvania.

As its name suggests there’s a festive vibe all year round but in my view, this month is an extra-special time to visit! 

I love that the snow-dusted streets are aglow with twinkling lights and festive decorations and there’s the opening of the Christmas City Village. This is where traditional wooden huts sell food, handmade crafts and artisanal treasures. 

I also enjoyed discovering the large Christkindlmarkt, a sprawling indoor and outdoor market brimming with unique gifts and the quirky Living Advent Calendar, which was held daily at 5:30pm at The Goundie House. 

• Visitors Center Address: 505 Main St. Bethlehem, PA 18018.
• Map Location
• Average temperature – 5°C

My personal highlights…

• Warming up with an authentic German Glühwein and freshly roasted nuts at the local Christkindlmarkt.
• Searching for unique gifts in the trendy and quirky Domaci shop.
• Exploring the interesting 18th-century buildings, museums and churches in the pretty Historic Moravian District.

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