December, with its festive cheer and holiday spirit, is a popular time for travel. However, the peak season often translates to inflated prices, making budget-conscious travelers rethink their plans. But worry not! Exploring the world without breaking the bank in December is absolutely achievable. Numerous destinations offer a delightful mix of experiences without straining your wallet. This guide unveils some of the most Affordable Places To Travel In December, ensuring you can end the year with an unforgettable trip.
Denver, Colorado: A Budget-Friendly Winter Wonderland
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Denver, the capital of Colorado, emerges as an affordable gem in December. While the city is nestled near stunning hiking trails, the cooler temperatures, averaging between 19 and 49 degrees Fahrenheit, shift the focus to indoor and après-ski activities. Beer enthusiasts can find refuge and warmth in Denver’s numerous breweries, including Great Divide Brewing Co. and Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery, offering a taste of local flavors without a hefty price tag.
For indoor entertainment, Denver boasts attractions like the Downtown Aquarium, Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, providing enriching experiences suitable for all ages. For those seeking winter sports, several ski resorts are conveniently located within a 90-minute drive from downtown Denver. Echo Mountain and Loveland Ski Area are excellent, budget-friendly options compared to the larger, more expensive resorts. Arapahoe Basin, Eldora Mountain, and Winter Park offer diverse slopes for varying skill levels, ensuring an accessible ski getaway.
Back in the city, the Cherry Creek Holiday Market provides an opportunity to find unique, locally crafted souvenirs. The Mistletoe Lounge within the market offers festive drinks, adding to the holiday ambiance without excessive spending. This market is part of the Cherry Creek North Winter Wonderland, a program filled with free and affordable holiday events.
Where to Stay Affordably in Denver: Cherry Creek is a recommended neighborhood, known for its shops and eateries, making it a convenient base. The Moxy Denver Cherry Creek offers stylish, contemporary rooms and a lively bar scene with nightly rates often under $200, representing great value in this popular area.
Tampa, Florida: Sunshine and Savings in December
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If escaping the winter chill is a priority without overspending, Tampa, Florida, presents an attractive and affordable option. Florida’s “it city” enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, boasting over 245 days of sunshine annually. Tampa’s vibrant neighborhoods, like the trendy Water Street Tampa, and the scenic Riverwalk, stretching over two miles, offer numerous free and low-cost activities. The Riverwalk connects museums, parks, performance venues, and restaurants, creating a hub of accessible entertainment.
Tampa’s culinary scene is surprisingly budget-friendly, even with Michelin recognition. SuperNatural Food & Wine offers breakfast sandwiches starting at just $5. Psomi serves delicious Greek dishes under $30, and Streetlight Taco provides most menu items for under $15. These Michelin-recommended eateries prove that quality dining in December doesn’t have to be expensive.
For beach lovers, Ben T Davis Beach and East Tampa Beach are just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Tampa, offering free access to sun and sand. Tampa provides a warm winter escape that is both enjoyable and easy on the wallet.
Affordable Tampa Accommodation: Hotel Haya in Ybor City, near downtown Tampa, is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking comfortable and well-located accommodation.
Seattle, Washington: Pacific Northwest on a Budget in December
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Seattle, Washington, in the Pacific Northwest, offers a rich tapestry of experiences at reasonable prices in December. This city is perfect for a long weekend getaway, catering to diverse interests without demanding a hefty budget. Iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum are must-sees, although consider saving on costs with a Seattle CityPASS for up to 48 percent off on top attractions.
Pike Place Market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a self-guided culinary tour with affordable eats and free samples. Coffee aficionados can visit the original Starbucks, a relatively inexpensive pilgrimage for coffee history. Seattle’s urban wine scene is also emerging, with wineries like Eight Bells Winery and Spruce Hill Winery offering tastings at reasonable prices.
Instagram-worthy spots like the Gum Wall provide free and quirky photo opportunities. In December, Seattle hosts WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo, an immersive holiday light exhibit that is ticketed but offers festive entertainment. Checking local event listings closer to December will reveal more seasonal, budget-friendly happenings.
Budget-Friendly Seattle Stays: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle, located downtown, provides excellent value with amenities like free bike rentals and a complimentary evening social hour with local wines, enhancing your Seattle experience without extra costs.
Orlando, Florida: Theme Parks and Affordability in December
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Orlando, Florida, known for its theme parks, can surprisingly be an affordable destination in December. While Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are major attractions, budget-conscious travelers can explore Orlando’s numerous free activities and attractions. The UCF Arboretum and free movie screenings at Lake Eola Park offer no-cost entertainment. The trendy Milk District provides a free self-guided street art tour, showcasing local creativity.
Orlando’s food scene extends to affordable Michelin-recommended eateries like Se7enBites, serving baked goods and meals under $20, and Pizza Bruno, with pizzas mostly in the $15 to $20 range. These options offer quality dining without theme park prices.
December in Orlando is festive, with events like EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays and Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort. While these events are ticketed, they offer immersive holiday experiences. Consider balancing theme park days with free or low-cost activities to manage your budget.
Affordable Orlando Hotels: Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites provides budget-friendly accommodation with vacation packages and deals. Amenities like early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ add value to your stay, making Orlando accessible even in December.
Fort Myers, Florida: Beaches and Bargains in December
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Fort Myers, Florida, recently recognized as the fastest-growing city in the U.S., is an excellent and affordable beach destination for December. Known for its beautiful beaches and fishing, Fort Myers offers a relaxing and budget-friendly winter escape. Beaches like Bowditch Point Park and Bunche Beach Preserve provide free access to sun, sand, and Gulf Coast beauty.
Adventure seekers can explore the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, offering kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Hiking and biking trails provide further free outdoor activities. The historic Fort Myers River District is lined with galleries, shops, bars, and restaurants, offering diverse and reasonably priced dining and entertainment options.
Budget-Conscious Stays in Fort Myers: The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located in the River District, offers affordable accommodation with a rooftop bar and pool. The panoramic views are a bonus, enhancing the value of your stay in Fort Myers.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Entertainment and Economy in December
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Las Vegas, Nevada, often perceived as a high-roller destination, can be surprisingly affordable in December. Beyond the casinos, Las Vegas offers numerous free activities. The Bellagio fountain show and Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are free spectacles. The Fremont Street Experience provides free nightly entertainment.
Animal lovers can visit the Flamingo wildlife habitat and the Silverton Casino aquarium, both offering free admission. Circus Circus provides free circus acts, entertaining audiences of all ages. Art enthusiasts can explore The Arts Factory and the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art without admission fees.
Las Vegas buffets, like Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan, can be a cost-effective way to dine. Happy hour deals at spots like Brera Osteria and Honey Salt offer discounted drinks and appetizers, making dining out more affordable.
Affordable Las Vegas Hotels: Marriott’s Grand Chateau, located off the Strip, eliminates resort fees, providing more value. It offers upscale amenities like a pool and bars, while being conveniently close to the main attractions, making Las Vegas accessible on a budget in December.
Phoenix, Arizona: Desert Sun and Savings in December
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Phoenix, Arizona, offers a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences at affordable prices in December. With average temperatures ranging from 44 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Hiking at Papago Park and Camelback Mountain is free and rewarding. Exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Museum of Art, Heritage Square, Encanto Park, and the Phoenix Zoo offer diverse experiences, though some have admission fees.
Downtown Phoenix features colorful street art and diverse restaurants, including the famous Pizzeria Bianco, known for its quality pizza at reasonable prices. December in Phoenix brings holiday events like ZooLights and Sea of Lights, offering festive entertainment.
Nearby Scottsdale, with its charming Old Town and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West (a World Heritage Site), provides additional exploration opportunities.
Budget-Friendly Phoenix Accommodation: Rise Uptown Hotel, a chic boutique hotel in downtown Phoenix, offers rooftop bar, stylish rooms, and cocktail bars at rates often under $200 per night in December, making it a great affordable option.
Los Angeles, California: Hollywood and Affordability in December
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Los Angeles, California, despite its glamorous image, can be explored affordably in December. While celebrity hotspots like Gjelina and The Ivy exist, budget-friendly options are abundant. Hiking to the Hollywood Sign and visiting Griffith Observatory offer stunning city views for free.
Window shopping on Rodeo Drive and strolling the Hollywood Walk of Fame are free activities. Exploring diverse neighborhoods like Venice, with its beaches and boardwalks, and Santa Monica, with its famous pier, provides varied experiences without significant costs.
Los Angeles hosts holiday events like the Hollywood Christmas Parade and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (ticketed), offering festive cheer. Exploring different neighborhoods and enjoying outdoor attractions keeps costs down while experiencing the essence of LA.
Affordable Los Angeles Hotel: The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood, located near Sunset Boulevard, offers a central location, rooftop space, and bars at reasonable rates, making it a great base for exploring Los Angeles on a budget.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Beaches and Budget-Friendly Fun in December
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has evolved from a spring break destination to a year-round vacation spot with affordable options in December. Its 25 miles of beaches offer free access to sun and sea. Las Olas Boulevard is lined with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars, offering diverse options for different budgets.
The Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk provides scenic parks and free walking paths. Culture enthusiasts can visit the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Bonnet House, and the Anne Kolb Nature Center (some may have admission fees). Enjoying the beaches and Riverwalk are free, making Fort Lauderdale an economical choice.
Budget-Conscious Fort Lauderdale Stays: The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers oceanfront location at competitive prices. Lona Cocina & Tequileria within the resort provides dining options, although exploring local eateries on Las Olas Boulevard offers more budget variety.
Miami, Florida: South Beach and Savings in December
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Miami, Florida, known as “Magic City,” offers a dreamy oceanfront escape that can be affordable in December. South Beach, Lummus Park, and Flamingo Park offer free beach access. Exploring the Art Deco Historic District and the Wynwood neighborhood, with its street art, are free and culturally enriching.
Little Havana and Coconut Grove offer diverse cultural experiences. Dining at Versailles in Little Havana is a must-try, offering Cuban cuisine at reasonable prices. Visiting Vizcaya Museum & Gardens has an admission fee, but offers stunning visuals. Miami’s beaches and neighborhoods provide ample free activities, making it a budget-friendly December destination.
Affordable Miami Accommodation: The Gabriel Miami South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, in an Art Deco building, offers a central South Beach location with amenities like bike rentals and beach chairs, adding value to your Miami stay without excessive costs.
Mexico City, Mexico: Culture and Cuisine on a Dime in December
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Mexico City, Mexico’s vibrant capital, is consistently an affordable travel destination, especially in December. Exploring neighborhoods like Polanco and Roma, and experiencing the food and drink scene, are central to a Mexico City visit. Contramar offers upscale dining, while Panadería Rosetta is known for affordable and delicious guava rolls and pastries.
Free attractions include the Bosque de Chapultepec, Museo Soumaya, and Palacio Nacional. Palacio de Bellas Artes offers free admission on Sundays. Mexico City’s rich culture and numerous free attractions make it exceptionally budget-friendly.
Affordable Mexico City Hotels: Downtown Mexico Hotel, housed in a 17th-century colonial mansion (a UNESCO site), offers unique accommodation at reasonable prices, enhancing the cultural immersion of your Mexico City trip.
Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic: Culture and Value in December
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Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, the country’s second-largest city, offers a culturally rich and affordable alternative to Punta Cana or La Romana in December. Ideal for history and culture enthusiasts, attractions include the Monumento de Santiago, Centro León cultural center, and Fortaleza San Luis (now a museum).
Parque Duarte offers a lush urban escape with tropical trees and pathways. Dining at Puerta del Sol and Doña Pula provides authentic Dominican cuisine at affordable prices, with most dishes under $35 and $20 respectively.
Budget-Friendly Santiago de los Caballeros Accommodation: Residence Inn Santiago de los Caballeros offers sleek suites with kitchenettes and a rooftop terrace at competitive rates, providing excellent value for your Dominican Republic trip.
New York City, New York: Big Apple on a Budget in December
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New York City, New York, is magical in December and can be experienced affordably. Bryant Park’s Winter Village and the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree are free holiday attractions. Ice skating in Central Park and the Dyker Heights Christmas lights offer relatively low-cost festive activities. The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is ticketed but a seasonal highlight.
Museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum offer indoor warmth and cultural enrichment. Affordable Broadway tickets can be found through TKTS or Broadway Roulette. New York City in December offers a blend of free and budget-friendly experiences.
Affordable New York Hotels: Hotel Mulberry is among the affordable hotel options in New York City, providing a base to explore the city without overspending on accommodation.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: History and Heritage for Less in December
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Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic’s capital, is one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering historical richness at affordable prices in December. The Zona Colonial features centuries-old buildings, including the Alcázar de Colón museum and Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor.
Plaza de España offers a cafe-lined spot for people-watching. The Dr. Rafael María Moscoso Botanic Garden and Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos provide natural beauty. Santo Domingo’s historical sites and natural parks offer budget-friendly exploration.
Affordable Santo Domingo Hotels: Embassy Suites by Hilton Santo Domingo offers all-suite accommodation with amenities like an infinity pool and complimentary breakfast at competitive rates, enhancing the value of your Santo Domingo trip.
Dublin, Ireland: European Charm on a Budget in December
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Dublin, Ireland, is known as one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe and remains affordable in December. Parks like St Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park offer free outdoor spaces, even in winter. Historic sites like Dublin Castle and Trinity College (Book of Kells) have admission fees, but walking tours and free museums like the National Museum of Ireland provide no-cost cultural immersion.
Enjoying a beer at the Guinness Storehouse is a Dublin experience, but balancing it with free activities keeps costs down. Dublin’s blend of history, culture, and free attractions makes it a budget-friendly European destination for December.
Affordable Dublin Stays: The Grafton Hotel, near Grafton Street, offers stylish rooms and on-site dining within walking distance of Dublin’s attractions, providing a convenient and reasonably priced base for your Dublin exploration.
December travel doesn’t have to be expensive. These destinations prove that affordable adventures are within reach, offering diverse experiences from cityscapes to beaches, ensuring a memorable end to the year without financial strain.
