As the December holiday approaches, many people across the country begin planning their vacations. With so many festive events and attractions during the December holiday, it can be hard to decide where to go. It is vital to visit a place with great fun activities and breathtaking scenery during this special time of the year.
Here are the 16 best places to visit in the US in December 2022:
1. Chicago, Illinois
Add some excitement to your December holiday with a trip to Illinois. The Windy City of Chicago has numerous attractions, dining options, and nightlife venues that will entertain you. The city’s iconic skyline is lit up with colorful lights during the holiday season, a perfect backdrop for any family photograph you may take.
Make sure to catch the famous Christkindlmarket, a traditional outdoor market that features unique gifts and authentic German food. You can head to Millennium Park if you want to see the majestic Christmas tree.
2. Park City, Utah
For those looking for a winter wonderland experience, Park City, Utah, is the perfect destination in December. The popular destination for skiers and snowboarders is in full swing during the winter, with plenty of inspiration for all travelers.
The town also has world-class resorts and fine dining accompanied by the lively nightlife. Whether you want to hit the slopes or explore historic Old Town sites and charming sprees, Park City is a must-visit destination in December.
3. Key West, Florida
The key lime pie and tranquil waters in Key West make it a perfect place to relax during the holiday season. Walk along the white sandy beaches or swim in the clear blue waters, and be sure to take a boat trip to see the spectacular marine life of Key West.
The Historic Seaport offers some great spots for dining, shopping, and entertainment. With classic restaurants and Victorian mansions, you will get a sense of Key West’s Spanish colonial heritage. It is a magical place to spend your December holidays.
4. New York City
As one of the most prevalent vacation destinations in the US, New York City is a must-visit during the holiday season. With bustling Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and stunning holiday light displays, NYC has endless things to do in December.
The festive atmosphere of NYC is perfect for anyone who loves spending time in the city and soaking up all the holiday magic. You can visit iconic landmarks or enjoy live performances by talented singers and musicians.
5. Maui, Hawaii
Another stellar destination to visit in December is Maui, a beautiful island in Hawaii. The gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture will keep you entertained on your holiday. Many tour companies and activities are available to suit any taste.
From snorkeling and whale watching to luaus and hiking tours, you can have a fantastic time in Maui during the holiday season. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, you will find it all in Maui.
6. Salt Lake City, Utah
Look for a festive holiday destination in Salt Lake City, Utah. From ski resorts to hot springs, this delightful city has everything you need to make your trip an unforgettable experience. The Christmas-themed festivals in Salt Lake City are the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit.
Winter enthusiasts flock to Utah’s capital city every year to enjoy its world-class ski slopes, indulge in mouthwatering holiday treats, and admire its majestic Christmas displays. Your holiday trip to Salt Lake City will be filled with adventure.
7. Los Angeles, California
If you want to spend your holidays surrounded by celebrities, there is no better place than Los Angeles. Head to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown LA to see a holiday performance or the Hollywood Bowl to enjoy Christmas classics.
Visit Descanso Gardens to marvel at the beautiful winter blooms, or check out Newport Beach for some thrilling winter sports. This bustling city never sleeps and will keep you entertained throughout the holidays.
8. Phoenix, Arizona
The sunny city of Phoenix is a great place to visit in December, especially if you want warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. With its beautiful desert landscape and many hiking trails, Phoenix is a fantastic choice for December travelers.
The sparkling holiday lights, dazzling Christmas displays, and festive events in Phoenix are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Go golfing at one of the many golf courses, or shop at unique boutiques and art galleries. Whatever your interests are, you are sure to find something exciting to do in Phoenix.
9. San Diego, California
With its great weather and beautiful beaches, San Diego is a perfect destination for those seeking sunny Pacific coast getaways. And if you get tired of the beach, there are plenty of other things to do in the city, from visiting museums and parks to trying some of the delicious food that San Diego is known for.
Watch boat races of all kinds, go surfing, or relax and enjoy the laid-back Southern California vibe. Whatever you decide to do on your holiday trip to San Diego, you will surely have a wonderful time.
10. Miami, Florida
Miami is always bustling with exciting activities and events, from art fairs and culinary festivals to beach parties and exciting nightlife. With a wide range of accommodations available, you can stay in the heart of the action or escape to a quieter part of town.
Miami also has many world-class museums and art galleries, making it the perfect destination for culture lovers. Miami is an excellent choice if you want to take in this exciting city’s beach sights and sounds.
11. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Another excellent destination for December is San Juan in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory in the Caribbean. The lovely sunshine and warm temperatures are a welcome break from the cold weather at home, and there is no shortage of attractions in this vibrant city.
San Juan has a rich history, with many museums, palaces, and other historic buildings to explore. There is also a great food scene, with restaurants serving both traditional dishes and more modern fare. Your Christmas vacation in San Juan will be truly memorable.
12. Galveston Island, Texas
Your December holiday in Galveston Island, Texas, will be fun and exciting. This beautiful island is home to some amazing beaches and is well known for its historic buildings and museums. It has a diverse range of attractions that will keep you busy throughout your stay.
Historic theaters such as The Grand 1894 Opera House can make your December memorable. With countless restaurants and classic attractions, you will never run out of things to do on this charming island.
13. The Virgin Islands
This wonderful archipelago in the Caribbean is a fantastic place to visit during December. With its pristine beaches, warm tropical climate, and stunning coral reefs, the Virgin Islands is a paradise getaway for travelers of all ages.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore picturesque nature trails, or go scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, the Virgin Islands is a great destination to explore during the holiday season. The Caribbean vibe of this place is sure to put you in a festive mood.
14. San Francisco, California
This iconic city is the perfect destination for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays in style. The city’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge, scenic hills, and vibrant neighborhoods will captivate you during your visit.
You will also enjoy Pier 39‘s lively boardwalk, which is home to various great attractions and restaurants. Enjoy the December holiday in San Francisco, and experience everything this vibrant city offers.
15. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas’s warm temperatures and lights guarantee a memorable and fun-filled holiday stay. This exciting city is home to a wide variety of casinos, theme parks, restaurants, and nightclubs that will turn your December trip into an unforgettable experience.
Many resorts feature luxurious accommodations and world-class facilities that will pamper your every need. Whether you are looking for a relaxing spa day or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Las Vegas will not disappoint.
16. U.S. Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands are an obvious choice for a Caribbean getaway in the U.S. in December. United States territory Saint Croix, Saint Thomas, and Saint John all boast tropical scenery that would be ideal for a winter retreat. You should prioritize spending time at the beach and snorkeling, as well as visiting some of the islands’ natural parks.
Due to its cruise ship port, St. Thomas is the most crowded of the three islands. As a result, even though there are many tours and activities available, you may likely encounter other December visitors on the sandy beaches.
The largest of the islands, St. Croix, offers a variety of cultural attractions. The smallest and most undeveloped island, St. John offers excellent snorkeling, trekking, tropical flora, and unspoiled beaches.
17. Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, is a true treasure thanks to its wonderful weather, amazing food culture, and renownedly exciting nightlife that features live music every night of the week.
To top it all off, Austin presents the Trail of Lights in Zilker Park in December, which is one of the top 10 public light displays of the vacation season.
An institution in the city for nearly 60 years, this celebration brings together businesses, charities and neighborhoods, as well as families, couples and students for a walk under the shimmering lights.
Covid has transformed the Trail of Lights into a drive-through winter wonderland.
Tickets must be acquired in advance and cost $50 to $100 each car.
The ideal approach to take advantage of this special event is to load your car with friends (to split the expense) and buy hot beverages for everyone in advance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you want a fun-filled family holiday or a relaxing getaway, there are plenty of great places to visit in the US during December. Each destination offers unique experiences that will make your holiday truly memorable. Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays.
