Best US Cities to Visit in December | Travel Guide

As the holiday season approaches, December is a perfect time to explore some of the best cities in the United States. From snowy escapes to warm-weather destinations, there’s no shortage of festive activities and holiday cheer in top spots across the country.

Whether you’re in the mood for Christmas lights, ice skating, sandy beaches, or historic buildings, here are some of the best US cities to visit in December to help you plan your Christmas vacation ideas.

New York City, New York

There’s nothing quite like New York City in December! Rockefeller Center draws millions with its grand Christmas trees, twinkling holiday lights, and famous ice skating rink. Wander down city streets adorned with decorations or catch the New Year’s Eve celebration at Times Square. NYC truly transforms into a winter wonderland—a great place for those craving a wide variety of holiday festivities.

Explore some of the best things to see and do in New York City this December:

Christmas Markets: Popular markets like the Union Square Holiday Market and the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park are perfect spots to find one-of-a-kind items and enjoy hot cocoa or mulled cider as you browse.
Fifth Avenue: Take in elaborate window displays and festive decorations and you walk through stunning architecture on the world’s greatest shopping street.
Central Park Winter Activities: Enjoy ice skating at Wollman Rink or a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snowy park.
The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall: Watch the famous Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular show.

Check Out These New York City Tours

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

For snow lovers, Lake Tahoe in December is one of the best places for winter sports. With cross-country skiing trails, holiday activities, and scenic views, this area is a festive destination full of excitement. Lake Tahoe is also close to small towns with holiday markets, making it a cozy yet adventurous choice for the end of the year.

Discover even more things to see and enjoy in Lake Tahoe this December:

Skiing & Snowboarding: Enjoy winter sports at Heavenly, Northstar, or Squaw Valley.
Holiday Markets in Tahoe City: Shop for local crafts and holiday gifts.
Scenic Gondola Rides: Take in panoramic lake and mountain views.
Ice Skating: Glide at one of the beautiful outdoor rinks by the lake.

Enjoy More of Lake Tahoe with These Tours

San Diego, California

If you’re after warm weather in December, San Diego is a top choice. Sandy beaches, the Gaslamp Quarter, and holiday markets make this popular destination perfect for winter getaways. San Diego’s Balboa Park December Nights event offers live music, food, and festive cheer, proving that high temperatures can still bring holiday magic.

Check out more festive sights and activities to enjoy in San Diego this December:

Balboa Park December Nights: Enjoy holiday entertainment, lights, and food vendors.
Old Town San Diego: Experience festive decorations in this historic area.
La Jolla Cove: Visit the beautiful coastal community of La Jolla and enjoy its small cove that is surrounded by cliffs, keep your eyes peeled for sea lions.
Coronado Beach: Take a winter beach walk by the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Do More in San Diego On These Tours

St. Augustine, Florida

Known as the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine delivers an enchanting holiday season experience. Historic buildings along Main Street are lit up for the Nights of Lights festival, which lasts through early January. This city offers a unique holiday vibe with fewer crowds and warm temperatures, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter, warmer holiday destination.

Discover more to see and do in St. Augustine throughout December:

Castillo de San Marcos: Tour the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. with holiday charm.
St. George Street: Shop for unique gifts in this pedestrian-friendly area.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Glide through the decorated streets in classic style.
San Sebastian Winery: Take a holiday-themed tour and enjoy a glass of local wine on the rooftop bar with city views.

Explore More of St. Augustine with These Tour Options

Florida Keys, Florida

The Florida Keys offer an unforgettable holiday experience for those wanting warm weather and sandy beaches. Key West hosts a dazzling Christmas boat parade, and there are plenty of opportunities for gift shopping in fewer crowds. The Keys are a top spot for people seeking a warm winter destination with holiday charm.

Explore more ways to experience the holiday season in the Florida Keys this December:

Key West Lighted Boat Parade: Watch festive boats decorated for the holidays.
Duval Street: Stroll along and explore bars, shops, and galleries.
Mallory Square: Attend the nightly sunset celebration with performers and vendors.
Dry Tortugas National Park: Take a day trip for snorkeling and exploring Fort Jefferson.

Check Out These Exciting Florida Key Tours

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas during the winter months is a great time to experience its famed entertainment without the scorching summer heat. With impressive holiday displays, live music, and themed holiday festivities, Vegas is a popular destination for those who enjoy excitement. The city offers plenty of hotel rooms, and with fewer people around, December might just be the best time to visit.

Find even more holiday attractions and experiences to enjoy in Las Vegas this December:

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: See the seasonal holiday display.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory: Walk through the holiday cactus garden light display.
Fremont Street Experience: Enjoy a festive light show in the heart of Downtown Vegas.
Ice Skating at The Cosmopolitan: Skate above the Vegas Strip at this rooftop rink

Enjoy These Las Vegas Tour Options for your Trip

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a great place for a classic winter escape. The Lincoln Park Zoo hosts the ZooLights festival, and ice skating at Millennium Park is a beloved tradition. Plus, the city streets and holiday markets create a festive ambiance that’s perfect for the time of year. The city’s mix of winter scenery and holiday charm makes it one of the best cities for a December trip.

Check out additional attractions and activities in Chicago during the holiday season:

Christkindlmarket: Visit this German-style holiday market in Daley Plaza.
Navy Pier Winter WonderFest: Enjoy holiday rides, a massive indoor skating rink, and a giant Christmas tree.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: Shop along Michigan Avenue while enjoying the holiday lights and decorations.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Concerts: Attend a festive concert, with performances of holiday classics.

Explore More To Do in Chicago Here

Puerto Rico

For an island escape, Puerto Rico offers warm temperatures, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant holiday atmosphere. Old San Juan is known for its festive decorations and local history, while its cultural festivals make it a festive season treat. Puerto Rico is an appealing warm-weather destination to consider for a unique December vacation.

Here are more ways to enjoy Puerto Rico’s festive atmosphere this December:

La Fortaleza: Visit Puerto Rico’s Governor’s mansion with holiday lights.
Bioluminescent Bay: Take a night kayak tour in Vieques or Fajardo.
Festival de las Máscaras de Hatillo: Visit this traditional December festival with parades, music, and colorful masks.
Paseo de la Princesa: Take a stroll along this scenic promenade in Old San Juan, decorated with holiday lights.

Book Awesome Puerto Rico Tours Here

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio’s River Walk is famous for its stunning holiday lights. This Texan city celebrates the season with a variety of holiday activities, including Christmas markets, live music, and boat parades. San Antonio’s historic buildings and vibrant streets make it a top pick for travelers looking for a blend of culture and holiday spirit.

Find more exciting December events and sights to explore in San Antonio:

Alamo: Explore the historic site and nearby holiday festivities.
Holiday Boat Caroling: Watch or join in caroling on festive river barges.
El Mercado (Market Square): Enjoy the holiday atmosphere in this vibrant Mexican marketplace with live music and seasonal foods.
Christmas on the Ranch at Enchanted Springs Ranch: Just outside San Antonio, this ranch hosts a Texas-style holiday celebration with lights, music, and activities.

Do More in San Antonio with These Tours

Salt Lake City, Utah

For a traditional holiday setting, Salt Lake City transforms into a winter wonderland. The city’s Temple Square features over a million Christmas lights, and the nearby Park City Mountain Resort is a fantastic option for skiing. With scenic views and holiday cheer, Salt Lake City is one of the best places to embrace the winter season.

Uncover more fun activities and places to visit in Salt Lake City this December:

Temple Square: Admire the holiday lights and decorations in this scenic square.
Utah Olympic Park: Watch ski jumpers or try the bobsled track.
Sugar House Park: Go sledding and enjoy the local holiday lights.
The Grand America Hotel Gingerbread House: See the hotel’s giant gingerbread house and festive decorations.

Check Out These Salt Lake City Tours

Each of these cities provides unique experiences during the holiday season, whether you’re chasing cold weather, warm places, or simply the joy of a beautifully decorated city. Wherever you choose, December in the U.S. is the perfect time to make memories that last a lifetime.

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READY TO PLAN A TRIP FOR THIS DECEMBER?

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