High 10 Greatest US Locations to Go to in December 2025

Twinkling lights, a heat drink in hand, and that magical vacation feeling is asking! Whether or not you’re dreaming of a snowy escape or a sunny retreat, December 2025 is the right time for an unforgettable journey. We’ve scouted the nation to deliver you the last word checklist of one of the best US locations to go to in December. From festive winter wonderlands to warm-weather hideaways, this checklist has all of it. Your most memorable vacation season but is ready. Let’s discover!

1. Park Metropolis, Utah – Your Winter Wonderland Paradise

Why December is Peak Perfection Right here:

When the vacation season arrives, this charming mountain city transforms right into a storybook scene of contemporary powder and festive cheer. December is pure magic right here, providing world-class snowboarding, a bustling calendar of occasions, and that cozy, snowy ambiance you crave.

What You’ll Expertise:

• Park Metropolis Mountain Resort: Carve your manner via over 7,300 acres of terrain—the biggest ski space within the U.S.—assured to have wonderful situations all month.
• Deer Valley Resort: Expertise first-class service and impeccably groomed, uncrowded slopes.
• Utah Olympic Park: Really feel the frenzy of the 2002 Video games with a bobsled journey or watch aerialists prepare.
• Historic Essential Avenue: Stroll via a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, distinctive boutiques, and comfortable eating places, usually accompanied by stay vacation music.
• Alpine Coasters & Ice Skating: Glide throughout out of doors rinks or race down mountain-side coasters for a thrill with a view.
• Snowshoeing & Nordic Snowboarding: Discover serenity on pristine trails via silent, snow-dusted forests.
• Apres-Ski Tradition: Unwind in a slope aspect lodge with a sizzling toddy or discover the colourful native eating scene.

Getting There:

Fly into Salt Lake Metropolis Worldwide Airport (SLC), only a 35-minute drive away. Frequent shuttles and rental automotive choices make the journey seamless.

The place to Keep:

For slope-side luxurious, look to The St. Regis Deer Valley or Montage Deer Valley. Professional Tip: E book your keep on CuddlyNest and use code DISCCN15 for a 15% low cost on the whole lot from ski-in/ski-out condos to charming mountain chalets.

Insider Suggestions:

• Go to in early December for thinner crowds and higher offers.
• The ski season is in full swing by mid-month, with prime snow situations.
• All the time guide elevate tickets on-line prematurely to save lots of considerably.
• For the shortest elevate strains, plan your ski days for Wednesday via Friday.

2. San Diego, California – A Sunny Vacation State of Thoughts

Why Escape to San Diego in December:

Commerce winter coats for sun shades! Whereas a lot of the nation shivers, San Diego basks in stunning, gentle climate with temperatures within the mid-60s. It’s the last word warm-weather retreat that’s brimming with vacation cheer.

December Highlights:

• Whale Watching Season: Witness the majestic annual migration of grey whales proper off the coast. Professional Tip: E book a morning tour for the calmest waters and greatest probabilities of sightings.
• Balboa Park Holidays: Discover 1,200 acres of museums and plush gardens, all magically aglow with dazzling vacation gentle shows.
• Yr-Spherical Seashores: Absorb the California solar on iconic shores. Sure, you may (and may!) pack your swimsuit.
• December Nights Competition: Immerse your self on this beloved occasion with worldwide meals stalls, festive music, and a vibrant vacation market.
• Festive Theme Parks: Expertise SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration and the San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells with out the oppressive summer season crowds.
• La Jolla Artwork Scene: Uncover particular vacation exhibitions and collections within the upscale galleries of La Jolla.

Getting There:

San Diego Worldwide Airport (SAN) is extremely handy, situated simply three miles from downtown. Rideshares can whisk you to the guts of the motion in beneath quarter-hour.

The place to Keep:

For iconic, historic luxurious, the Lodge del Coronado is unmatched. For extra worth and selection, guide on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off on the whole lot from fashionable downtown lofts to cozy beachfront cottages.

Don’t Miss:

• The dramatic ocean views and gorgeous sunsets at Sundown Cliffs.
• The charming vacation market and unbelievable eating in Little Italy.
• The unforgettable sight (and sound!) of the ocean lions at La Jolla Cove.
• A fast 45-minute day journey to Temecula Wine Nation for a festive wine-tasting tour.

3. New York Metropolis – The Epicenter of Vacation Magic

Why NYC Owns December:

The silver-screen fantasy turns into your actuality. New York in December is a residing, respiration vacation basic, the place the power and Christmas cheer is palpable and the festive spirit touches the whole lot. It’s extra magical than you ever imagined.

Should-Expertise Moments:

• The Rockefeller Middle Tree: Behold the long-lasting, storybook-perfect tree, a towering 75-foot Norway Spruce shimmering with over 50,000 lights.
• Iconic Ice Skating: Glide beneath the skyscrapers on the legendary Rockefeller Middle rink, or go for the scenic views at Wollman Rink in Central Park or the free (and festive) rink at Bryant Park.
• Enchanted Vacation Christmas Markets: Discover distinctive items whereas sipping sizzling chocolate on the Bryant Park Winter Village, Union Sq. Vacation Market, or the Columbus Circle festive stalls.
• A Central Park Carriage Journey: Expertise old-world allure with a horse-drawn carriage journey via the park’s snow-dusted lanes.
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: Take a subway journey to Brooklyn to witness a legendary show of over-the-top, jaw-dropping residential decorations.
• Radio Metropolis Christmas Spectacular: Really feel the surprise of a real New York custom with the world-famous Rockettes.
• Fifth Avenue Window Shows: Embark on a festive stroll previous Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy’s to see their breathtaking, theatrical vacation home windows.
• The Soundtrack of the Season: From soulful gospel singers in Grand Central to world-class live shows, stay vacation music fills town air.

Getting There:

New York is served by three main airports (JFK, LGA, EWR). When you arrive, the intensive subway system is your key to effortlessly navigating town.

The place to Keep:

For a quintessential splurge, The Plaza Lodge presents timeless magnificence. Uncover genuine stays in charming neighbourhoods like Brooklyn’s tree-lined streets, creative Greenwich Village, or the basic Higher West Aspect. 

Peak Season Technique:

That is NYC’s busiest time of 12 months. E book flights and lodging months prematurely. To beat the crowds, go to main points of interest on weekday mornings and lean on the subway, which is at all times sooner than a cab in vacation visitors.

4. Asheville, North Carolina – A Cozy Blue Ridge Mountain Vacation

Why Asheville Shines in December:

Nestled within the coronary heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville turns into a comfortable retreat the place pure winter magnificence meets vibrant artistic power. It’s the right vacation spot for many who love the allure of a snowy panorama and the heat of a welcoming, artsy city.

What Makes It Particular:

• The Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s most scenic drive presents breathtaking, frost-tipped vistas and quiet, misty overlooks (verify for seasonal highway closures).
• Biltmore Property by Candlelight: Step right into a Gilded Age Christmas at America’s largest dwelling, adorned with dozens of embellished timber and 1000’s of vacation ornaments.
• Winter Lights on the NC Arboretum: Wander a mesmerising, mile-long path illuminated by over half 1,000,000 twinkling LED lights.
• Downtown’s Festive Vibe: Uncover a thriving arts scene, famend breweries, and farm-to-table eating places, all decked out of their vacation greatest.
• Grove Arcade Vacation Market: Discover distinctive, handcrafted items from native artisans on this stunning historic constructing.
• Winter Mountain climbing & Solitude: Discover crisp, quiet air and gorgeous views on trails like Craggy Gardens, the place you may expertise a real “winter wonderland” solitude.

Getting There:

Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) is essentially the most handy choice. For extra flight selections, Charlotte (CLT) is a scenic two-hour drive. A rental automotive is extremely really useful for exploring the encircling mountains.

The place to Keep:

For a legendary expertise with an iconic subterranean spa, the Omni Grove Park Inn is unparalleled. For a extra intimate and genuine keep, guide an enthralling mountain cabin or a classy downtown loft on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off.

Climate Prep:

Pack layers! Temperatures can vary from the 30s to 50s. When you plan to drive to greater elevations, be ready for potential winter situations and carry snow chains, particularly in early December.

5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – An Alpine Winter Paradise

Why Lake Tahoe Dominates December:

The place else are you able to ski down a mountain with breathtaking views of a pristine alpine lake? Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe in December is a snow-lover’s dream, combining the hemisphere’s greatest snowboarding with an unforgettable festive ambiance.

Winter Actions Galore:

• World-Class Ski Resorts: Select your journey from iconic names like Palisades Tahoe, Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood, providing terrain for each ability degree.
• Ski with a View: At Heavenly Mountain Resort, carve down runs that actually look out over the glowing blue expanse of the lake.
• Nordic Snowboarding & Snowshoeing: Discover peace and quiet on the groomed trails of Tahoe Cross Nation or discover frozen meadows on snowshoes.
• Lakeside Ice Skating: Glide throughout out of doors rinks surrounded by a surprising panorama of snow-capped peaks.
• Festive Fireworks: Ring within the New Yr with spectacular fireworks shows reflecting off the lake’s floor.
• Household Enjoyable: Get pleasure from devoted snow play areas with tubing hills and sledding zones which can be good for youngsters.

Getting There:

Fly into Reno-Tahoe Worldwide (RNO), about 45 minutes from the North Shore, or Sacramento Worldwide (SMF), about two hours from the South Shore. Important: A 4WD/AWD automobile is extremely really useful, and it’s essential to carry snow chains by legislation throughout winter storms.

The place to Keep:

For slope-side luxurious, think about The Ritz-Carlton or Edgewood Tahoe Resort. For one of the best worth and site, guide your good lakefront cabin or ski-in/ski-out apartment on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off.

North vs. South Shore:

North Shore: Provides a quieter, extra rustic alpine allure with cities like Tahoe Metropolis.

South Shore: Buzzes with extra power, that includes nightlife, casinos, and leisure.

Professional Suggestions:

• E book the whole lot prematurely, particularly elevate tickets and gear leases, for one of the best costs and availability.
• Arrive at resorts earlier than 8:30 AM to safe parking and luxuriate in contemporary “first tracks” on the groomed corduroy.
• All the time verify Caltrans highway situations earlier than driving. The scenic drive across the lake can take considerably longer in winter climate.

6. Chicago, Illinois – Unforgettable Festive Spirit

Embracing the Winter Chill:

Chicago doesn’t simply endure winter; it transforms the chilly into its best asset. The town buzzes with an infectious power, providing a lineup of festive occasions so heat and alluring you’ll neglect all concerning the temperature.

December Should-Sees:

• Skating at Millennium Park: Glide throughout the long-lasting ice rink within the shadow of “The Bean” (Cloud Gate), with the magnificent skyline creating an unforgettable city backdrop.
• Christkindlmarket Chicago: Step right into a European winter wonderland at Daley Plaza, savouring genuine German sausages, spiced mulled wine (Glühwein), and handcrafted items.
• The Magnificent Mile Aglow: Stroll down this well-known avenue, dazzled by over 1,000,000 twinkling lights that create a panoramic cover after the annual Lights Competition.
• ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Get pleasure from this beloved (and free!) custom, the place the zoo transforms right into a magical panorama of animated gentle shows, all with the charming backdrop of historic animal habitats.
• World-Class Museum Hopping: Escape the chilly inside legendary establishments just like the Artwork Institute of Chicago, the Subject Museum, and the Museum of Science and Trade.
• Vacation Decorations & Sizzling Chocolate: Discover festively decked-out neighbourhoods and embark on a self-guided sizzling chocolate tour to pattern a few of the metropolis’s richest, most decadent creations.

Getting There:

Each O’Hare (ORD) and Halfway (MDW) airports supply wonderful connections by way of the CTA ‘L’ prepare. Buy a Ventra Card for seamless journey on all public transit.

The place to Keep:

For a historic and central location, the Chicago Athletic Affiliation Lodge is a implausible selection. To stay extra like an area, guide a novel Chicago keep on CuddlyNest for the whole lot from fashionable River North lofts to charming Lincoln Park brownstones.

Costume Good:

Come ready! Common temperatures sit within the 20s and 30s, however the well-known wind chill is not any joke. Layers are non-negotiable. Use the downtown Pedway system—a community of underground tunnels—to heat up as you navigate town’s core.

7. Palm Springs, California – A Stylish Desert Winter Oasis

Desert December Perfection:

Whereas the remainder of the nation bundles up, Palm Springs basks in good, dry desert sunshine with temperatures within the blissful 70s. It’s the last word winter retreat for these searching for fashionable leisure and out of doors journey in equal measure.

What Awaits You:

• Prime Mountain climbing Season: Discover the gorgeous trails of Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon, the place flowing water and historical fan palms create an oasis—all loved with out the scorching summer season warmth.
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Expertise a real “two-in-one” journey: in simply ten minutes, journey from the desert flooring to a snowy wonderland on the Mountain Station, 8,500 ft up.
• Mid-Century Fashionable Magic: Take a self-guided tour via iconic neighborhoods to admire the gorgeous structure that defines town’s fashionable vibe.
• The Dwelling Desert Zoo and Gardens: Spend an ideal day at this 1,200-acre park, the place the nice December climate makes exploring the gorgeous botanical gardens and wildlife habitats a pleasure.
• Thriving Arts Scene: Browse the quite a few artwork galleries downtown and within the Uptown Design District.
• The Final Flex: Lounge by a glowing non-public pool with a cocktail in hand—your good Christmas day actuality.

Getting There:

Palm Springs Worldwide Airport (PSP) is a dream for vacationers, situated simply 5-10 minutes from downtown. Its compact dimension makes arrivals and departures splendidly stress-free.

The place to Keep:

For iconic, retro-luxe fashion, The Parker Palm Springs is a vacation spot in itself. For a extra non-public and personalised keep, guide a surprising desert retreat or a non-public pool villa on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off.

Don’t Miss:

A day journey to the otherworldly panorama of Joshua Tree Nationwide Park, only a 45-minute drive away. The distinctive rock formations and twisted Joshua timber are much more hanging within the clear winter gentle.

8. Loss of life Valley & Joshua Tree Nationwide Parks – Epic Desert Adventures

Why December is Excellent:

Winter is the one time to comfortably expertise these legendary landscapes. With summer season’s excessive and harmful warmth lengthy gone, December’s gentle, nice temperatures (40s-60s) create the right window for exploration beneath huge, sunny skies.

Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park:

• Badwater Basin: Stand on the lowest level in North America (282 ft beneath sea degree) and stroll onto the huge, crystalline salt flats.
• Epic Overlooks: Witness dawn or sundown from Zabriskie Level or Dante’s View, providing panoramic, otherworldly vistas of the park’s sculpted terrain.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Wander via majestic, rolling dunes which can be good for pictures and feeling the silence of the desert.
• Artist’s Palette: Drive the Artist’s Drive loop to see these vibrantly colored hills, the place mineral deposits paint the mountains in gorgeous hues, greatest seen within the late afternoon gentle.
• A Stargazer’s Paradise: Expertise a few of the darkest night time skies within the USA, with breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Milky Means.

Joshua Tree Nationwide Park:

• The Iconic Panorama: Marvel on the park’s namesake Dr. Seussian Joshua Bushes set towards a backdrop of huge, jumbled boulder formations.
• Keys View: On a transparent day, this overlook gives a surprising panorama of the Coachella Valley and even the San Andreas Fault line.
• A Rock Climber’s Mecca: Take a look at your expertise on world-famous granite formations, or just take pleasure in watching climbers ascend the intricate rock faces.
• Cholla Cactus Backyard: Stroll amongst a dense, glowing forest of cholla cacti that appear to catch fireplace within the mushy gentle of golden hour.
• Primal Darkness: Like Loss of life Valley, Joshua Tree presents unparalleled, crystal-clear stargazing removed from metropolis lights.

Getting There:

• Loss of life Valley: The most typical gateway is Las Vegas (LAS), roughly a 2-hour drive.
• Joshua Tree: Fly into Palm Springs (PSP) or Ontario (ONT); the west entrance is about 30-45 minutes from Palm Springs.
• A rental automotive is totally important for each parks.

The place to Keep:

For Loss of life Valley, the historic Inn at Loss of life Valley presents uncommon in-park lodging. For a extra distinctive and sometimes extra reasonably priced expertise close to both park, guide a secluded cabin or a classy desert retreat on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off.

Essential Sensible Suggestions:

• Assume you should have no cell service. Obtain Google Maps offline for navigation earlier than you arrive.
• All the time carry extra water than you assume you’ll want—no less than one gallon per particular person, per day.
• Fill your fuel tank within the nearest city earlier than getting into the parks; there are only a few stations inside and they’re far aside.
• Pack layers! Desert temperatures can swing dramatically from day to nighttime.

9. Glacier Nationwide Park, Montana – For the Intrepid Winter Explorer

For Adventurous Souls:

This isn’t your typical December getaway. Glacier Nationwide Park in winter is an unlimited, silent wilderness reserved for many who come ready. When you crave profound solitude and untracked snow beneath towering peaks, that is your final reward.

Winter Experiences:

• Cross-Nation Snowboarding & Snowshoeing: Comply with unplowed sections of the long-lasting Going-to-the-Solar Street, carving your individual path via a pristine panorama of snow-laden pines and frozen waterfalls.
• Potential for Northern Lights: The lengthy, darkish nights supply an opportunity to witness the aurora borealis dance over the Continental Divide.
• Wildlife Monitoring: Spot elk, bighorn sheep, and different hardy wildlife towards the stark white backdrop—a photographer’s dream.
• Absolute Solitude: Expertise the uncooked, unfiltered fantastic thing about one among America’s most spectacular parks with solely the sound of your individual breath for firm.

The Actuality Verify:

It is a severe wilderness enterprise. A lot of the park, together with the well-known Going-to-the-Solar Street, is closed to autos from November to Could. Entry is restricted to the west aspect close to Lake McDonald, and journey requires intensive winter preparation, a 4WD/AWD automobile, and self-reliance.

Getting There:

Fly into Kalispell Glacier Park Worldwide Airport (FCA), about half-hour from the West Glacier entrance. Snow chains are necessary and also you have to be ready for quickly altering situations.

The place to Keep:

Winter lodging contained in the park is extraordinarily restricted. The close by city of Whitefish (half-hour away) is your greatest basecamp, providing a spread of providers. 

Your Mountain Basecamp:

The city of Whitefish is a gem, with Whitefish Mountain Resort providing implausible snowboarding and a vibrant downtown stuffed with wonderful eating places and breweries—offering good heat and luxury after a day within the wild.

10. Boston, Massachusetts – A Historic Vacation Tapestry

Revolutionary Holidays:

The place America’s previous meets festive current. Boston in December weaves its wealthy revolutionary historical past into the very material of the vacation season, creating an expertise that’s as academic as it’s enchanting.

Should-Do December Actions:

• Faneuil Corridor Market: Discover the bustling vacation market set towards a backdrop of historic structure, stuffed with distinctive artisan items and festive decorations.
• Boston Widespread Tree Lighting: Behold the magnificent annual present from Nova Scotia—a towering 40+ foot tree that stands as a logo of friendship and peace.
• Ice Skating on Frog Pond: Glide throughout this iconic rink within the coronary heart of the Boston Widespread, surrounded by town’s stunning skyline.
• Boston Pops Vacation Live shows: Expertise the magic of the season with the world-renowned Boston Pops, a musical custom that defines a Boston Christmas.
• Beacon Hill’s Historic Allure: Stroll down gas-lit, cobblestone streets like Acorn Avenue, the place historic brick townhomes are adorned with basic wreaths and twinkling lights.
• The Freedom Path in Winter: Stroll the long-lasting red-brick line via a dusting of snow, discovering the cradle of American revolution with fewer crowds (simply bundle up!).
• Festive Household Enjoyable: Heat up inside world-class establishments just like the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science, which host particular vacation programming.

Getting There:

Logan Worldwide Airport (BOS) is extremely handy, with a fast 15-minute subway (the “T”) journey to downtown. The MBTA system is reasonably priced and environment friendly for reaching all main neighbourhoods.

The place to Keep:

For timeless grandeur, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is a landmark itself. To stay like an area, guide an genuine Boston condominium on CuddlyNest utilizing code DISCCN15 for 15% off stays in charming neighbourhoods just like the Italian North Finish, the elegant South Finish, or throughout the river in scholarly Cambridge.

Climate Prep:

Come ready for true New England winter! Count on temperatures within the 30s with a excessive probability of snow. Waterproof boots are your greatest good friend. A heat coat, layers, and a hat are important, particularly with the brisk wind coming off the harbor.

Meals & Drink Highlights:

Heat up with a bowl of creamy New England clam chowder, sip sizzling apple cider at a Christmas market, bask in cannoli from the legendary bakeries of the North Finish, and discover the stylish cafes and eating places alongside Newbury Avenue.

Your December 2025 Journey Awaits

Good Journey Tip: For one of the best offers, go to in early December. E book New Yr’s Eve plans far prematurely and at all times pack for potential climate adjustments.

Unlock Your Excellent Stick with CuddlyNest

Ditch the peculiar lodge for a novel dwelling that matches your fashion. Discover cozy cabins, downtown lofts, and ski chalets—all designed to really feel like a house away from dwelling.

Use code DISCCN15 for 15% off your reserving and put your financial savings towards extra adventures.

Discover Your December Magic

From snowy peaks and desert trails to festive cities and sunny seashores, your good winter escape is on this checklist. Whether or not you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or a heat getaway, December 2025 delivers unforgettable moments.

Able to discover?

Head to CuddlyNest, discover your good escape, and use code DISCCN15 to save lots of. Your most memorable vacation season begins now.

FAQs For Greatest US Locations to Go to in December 2025

1. What if my flight is canceled as a consequence of a winter storm?

All the time guide flights with a bank card that gives journey insurance coverage. Contact your airline instantly by way of their app to rebook, and think about buying journey insurance coverage to your complete journey for broader protection on flights, lodging, and actions.

2. Are rental automotive corporations outfitted for winter situations?

You could particularly request a 4WD/AWD automobile and ensure it consists of all-weather or snow tires. By no means assume a regular sedan is secure for mountain or snowy locations, even when it’s a 4WD.

3. How far prematurely ought to I guide common vacation dinners?

For eating places on or round Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Yr’s Eve, purpose to make reservations no less than 4-6 weeks prematurely, as many refill rapidly.

4. What’s one of the best ways to deal with vacation gratuities?

Finances for vacation suggestions for housekeeping, shuttle drivers, and tour guides. Carry small payments ($5s and $10s) so you may simply present appreciation for distinctive service throughout your travels.

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