December marks the end of the year and the beginning of the holiday season, making it a fantastic time to travel. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy winter wonderland, a sunny beach escape, or a festive city adventure, the USA offers a diverse range of destinations perfect for December travel. If you’re wondering “what is the Best Place To Travel In December In Usa?”, look no further. We’ve curated a list of top destinations across the United States, ensuring you find the ideal spot to wrap up your year with an unforgettable trip.
Miami, Florida
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Miami stands out as an excellent choice for December travel within the USA, offering a vibrant mix of sun, culture, and exciting events. Miami Beach is perfect for those seeking warm weather and relaxation on pristine sands. For shoppers, the Design District, Brickell City Centre, and Aventura Mall provide upscale retail experiences. Art enthusiasts can explore the outdoor installations in Wynwood, known for its colorful walls and galleries, or visit during Art Basel in Miami Beach, a premier art fair held in early December.
Downtown Miami’s Brickell area provides a different perspective, with stunning city views, especially at night, and a lively riverfront scene. During December, even with temperatures in the 80s, Miami embraces the holiday spirit with festive decorations and events like “Zoo Lights” at Zoo Miami, offering a unique holiday experience in a tropical setting.
Where to Stay: For a luxurious experience, consider Kimpton Epic Hotel in downtown Brickell, known for its Privai Spa and Area 31 restaurant with al fresco dining. The Setai and Faena Hotel, both recognized in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best List, offer top-tier accommodations in Miami Beach.
San Diego, California
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San Diego, with its consistently mild weather, beautiful beaches, and dynamic downtown area, is a fantastic destination for December travel in the USA. While the 60-degree temperatures might be a bit cool for swimming in the Pacific, there’s an abundance of onshore activities. San Diego fully embraces the holiday season, with festive decorations throughout Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Legoland.
Lightscape, an enchanting display of artistic light installations, returns to the San Diego Botanic Garden from mid-November to early January. The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, a captivating boat parade, takes place on select dates in December. Beyond seasonal festivities, Liberty Station offers shopping, dining, and public art year-round. December also marks the start of the gray whale migration, offering a unique opportunity for wildlife spotting on a harbor cruise.
Where to Stay: San Diego boasts a range of excellent hotels. Kona Kai Resort in Point Loma provides views of the boat parade. For luxury accommodations, Rancho Bernardo Inn and Fairmont Grand Del Mar are outstanding choices.
U.S. Virgin Islands
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For a warm and convenient December escape without needing a passport, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a prime “best place to travel in december in usa” contender. Located in the Caribbean, these islands offer white-sand beaches and invitingly warm, clear waters. St. Croix, the largest island, is known for its laid-back atmosphere, rich history, and exceptional diving, including night diving at Frederiksted Pier. December in St. Croix is also when the Crucian Christmas Festival occurs, featuring parades, pageants, and cultural events.
St. John, the smallest of the main islands, is home to Virgin Islands National Park, renowned for ancient petroglyphs, unspoiled beaches, and scenic hiking trails. St. Thomas, the most accessible island with direct flights from many major US cities, offers both natural beauty and duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie. The warm December weather in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a major draw for winter vacationers, so early planning is recommended.
Where to Stay: The U.S. Virgin Islands offer diverse lodging options, from boutique hotels to large resorts and all-inclusive properties. For upscale stays, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, and Lovango Resort & Beach Club in St. John, recognized in the World’s Best Awards for the Caribbean, are excellent choices.
Fort Worth, Texas
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Fort Worth, Texas, provides a unique blend of Western heritage and festive holiday spirit, making it a distinctive “best place to travel in december in usa”. December temperatures in the 50s are comfortable for exploring the historic Stockyards, where you can witness the daily cattle drive of Texas longhorns. The Stockyards offer a glimpse into the past with tours of the original yards, a petting zoo for children, and shops along Mule Alley.
Evening entertainment options include Billy Bob’s Texas, a famous honky-tonk, and the vibrant Sundance Square downtown. Throughout December, Fort Worth is adorned with holiday decorations. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden transforms into a winter wonderland with Lightscape, an illuminated light installation, from late November to early January.
Where to Stay: Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection, is a top pick among Travel + Leisure readers in Dallas/Fort Worth, recognized in the World’s Best Awards. Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection, opened in late 2023, and Le Méridien Fort Worth Downtown, opened in mid-2024, offer new and stylish lodging options.
Boston, Massachusetts
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For a classic winter holiday experience in the USA, Boston, Massachusetts, is an excellent “best place to travel in december in usa”. December in Boston means bundling up in warm clothing to enjoy this historic and lively city. Walking the Freedom Trail provides a journey through American history, and Boston’s museums offer indoor exploration and cultural enrichment.
Snowport, Boston’s annual holiday market, is a seasonal highlight, featuring shops, food vendors, Christmas trees, menorahs, and an ice skating rink. Ice skating at Frog Pond in Boston Common is another popular winter activity for both locals and tourists. Nearby Faneuil Hall offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For holiday performances, “Holiday Pops” by the Boston Pops orchestra and “The Nutcracker” at Boston Ballet are cherished traditions.
Where to Stay: Boston offers several highly-rated hotels. Raffles Boston and Hotel Commonwealth, featured in Boston’s rankings for the World’s Best Awards, provide exceptional accommodations.
Washington, D.C.
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Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is a captivating destination in December, offering a blend of holiday festivities, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The city welcomes December with cooler temperatures, elaborate holiday decorations, and often more affordable hotel rates. The Downtown Holiday Market, an outdoor market with vendors, food stalls, and entertainment, starts in late November and continues through December.
Ice skating rinks at the National Gallery of Art, Wharf, Washington Harbour, and Navy Yard provide winter fun for skaters and spectators alike. Washington, D.C., is also ideal for holiday shopping, especially at museum shops offering unique gifts. The city’s numerous museums provide fascinating experiences for all interests and a warm escape from the December chill, making it a perfect family destination in winter.
Where to Stay: Washington, D.C., has a wide selection of hotels. Travel + Leisure’s list of best hotels in Washington, D.C., includes World’s Best Awards winners and recent favorites, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay.
The Adirondacks, New York
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For a snowy winter retreat within the USA, the Adirondacks in New York offer stunning scenery and charming towns, making them a wonderful “best place to travel in december in usa” for winter enthusiasts. Located a few hours north of New York City, the Adirondacks transform into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-covered mountains and picturesque towns. Lake Placid, which hosted the Winter Olympics twice, offers ski slopes, shops, and restaurants.
Nearby Saranac Lake features a quaint downtown, historic architecture, and various winter sports, including snowmobiling. Families can enjoy The Polar Express train ride, a festive journey from Utica to the North Pole to meet Santa. The Adirondacks are also perfect for a cozy winter getaway, offering numerous lodges and cabins with fireplaces for a relaxing escape.
Where to Stay: The Point Resort in Saranac Lake offers luxurious rooms in rustic cabins. The Lodge at Schroon Lake provides cabins, chalets, and hotel rooms on a large property. In Lake Placid, High Peaks Resort offers varied lodging options, and Eastwind Lake Placid is a stylish boutique choice.
While the focus is on the USA, for those looking beyond, here are a few international destinations that are also excellent in December:
Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka is a popular international destination in December, offering warm weather and diverse experiences. The southern coastal region enjoys dry and sunny weather, ideal for beach vacations. Activities range from wildlife safaris in Udawalawe National Park to exploring beaches and enjoying boutique hotels and villas. Early planning is recommended due to the holiday season’s popularity.
Where to Stay: Camp Weligama, Relais & Châteaux, offers villas overlooking the Indian Ocean. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and Anantara Kalutara Resort provide luxurious stays along Sri Lanka’s coast.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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December marks the beginning of summer in Rio de Janeiro, making it a lively time to visit. Beach and cultural scenes become more vibrant, and carnival rehearsals begin. New Year’s Eve on Copacabana Beach is a world-famous celebration. Visit Christ the Redeemer for stunning city views.
Where to Stay: JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro overlooks the beach. Santa Teresa MGallery and Fasano Rio de Janeiro offer boutique and beachfront options. Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana provides views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Saint-Tropez, France
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Saint-Tropez in December offers a quieter, more authentic experience than its bustling summer season. Enjoy coastal walks, hiking, and discover the charm of this picturesque fishing village without the crowds.
Where to Stay: Arev Saint Tropez, opened in 2024, offers a spa and Mediterranean restaurant. Hotel La Ponche is a five-star hotel with bay views and a spa.
Vienna, Austria
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Vienna in December is festive and elegant, with chandelier-lit pedestrian streets and decorated shops. December is peak cultural season with music, opera, and ballet. Christmas markets offer local charm and atmosphere. Enjoy coffee houses and Sachertorte.
Where to Stay: Almanac Palais Vienna offers a spa and indoor pool. Hotel Bristol, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is a top-rated Vienna hotel.
Maldives
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December is peak season in the Maldives with dry weather, clear seas, and abundant marine life. Resorts offer festive activities and events. Choose from numerous islands and luxury resorts with overwater bungalows.
Where to Stay: Consider Patina Maldives, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, and Anantara Kihavah Maldives for luxury all-inclusive experiences.
Dolomites, Italy
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The Dolomites in early December offer a calm atmosphere before the ski season fully begins. Explore charming villages and enjoy the Tyrolean architecture and culture. Skiing starts mid-December, and non-skiers can enjoy the mountain scenery.
Where to Stay: Forestis offers year-round comfort. Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti is another excellent option. Few & Far provides luxury ski trip itineraries.
Turks & Caicos
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Turks & Caicos offers Caribbean beaches, water sports, and resorts. December has warm weather and holiday festivities. Maskanoo celebration on Dec. 26 highlights local culture.
Where to Stay: The Shore Club is ideal for groups. The Strand, opening in late November, offers secluded villas. Beaches Turks & Caicos is an all-inclusive resort for families and couples.
Prague, Czech Republic
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Prague in December is cold but festive with Christmas markets, decorations, and cultural events. Explore Christmas markets, enjoy river cruises, and visit museums.
Where to Stay: Andaz Prague is located in Old Town near Christmas markets. NH Collection Prague Carlo IV is another elegant option.
December presents a wealth of travel opportunities, particularly within the USA. From the warm beaches of Florida and California to the snowy landscapes of the Adirondacks and the festive cities like Boston and Washington D.C., the “best place to travel in december in usa” truly depends on your personal preferences. Whether you seek sun, snow, city excitement, or cultural immersion, December travel promises memorable experiences to conclude the year. Start planning your December getaway now to make the most of this wonderful travel month!
