NYC for a Classic Christmas
In December, New York City will become a winter paradise. A magnificent environment is created by the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, ice skating, cheerful window decorations along Fifth Avenue, and seasonal markets, including Bryant Park and Union Square. Classic Christmas shows are The Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the Nutcracker Ballet. Times Square glows with brilliant lights; Central Park provides picturesque snow walks. December hotel rates can be exorbitant; hence, make an advance book and think about looking at other boroughs for less expensive choices.
Aspen for Mountain Majesty
Colorado's Aspen is well-known for its skiing; four mountains fit varying degrees of ability. Holiday lights abound in the town, and opulent resorts offer rest following a day on the slopes. The 12 Days of Aspen festival features celebrations, concerts, and fireworks.
Orlando for Theme Park Festivities
With world-class theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld right here in Orlando, Florida, Christmas is unlike anywhere else. These heavily decorated parks have parades, events, and holiday-oriented activities. For someone fleeing a colder climate, warm weather is a bonus.
Chicago for Festive Cheer
Inspired by German customs, Chicago's Christmas market offers unusual gifts, cuisine, and joyful music. A popular activity is ice skating at Millennium Park against the city skyline. The Magnificent Mile is well-known for its Christmas lights and stores. Museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, offer indoor activities.
Leavenworth for Bavarian Charm
With its annual Christmas Lighting Festival, the Bavarian-themed community of Leavenworth, Washington, in the Cascade Mountains, welcomes the Christmas season. Carollers, horse-drawn carriages, and seasonal decorations create an enchanting mood.
San Diego for Coastal Christmas
San Diego is a great Christmas spot with its mild temperature and celebratory activities, including Balboa Park December Nights. One highlight is the boat Parade of Lights on San Diego Bay; the San Diego Zoo provides a festive experience free from the summer thrills. Winter walks are best done on beaches.
Charleston for Southern Hospitality
Charleston, South Carolina, combines history and holiday happiness with adorned historic streets, the Holiday Festival of Lights, and tours of historic homes and plantations. The city's Southern appeal and friendly hospitality enhance the festive vibe.
Santa Fe for a Unique Christmas
Santa Fe, New Mexico, has another kind of Christmas celebration. On Christmas Eve, the Canyon Road Farolito Walk boasts brilliant lamps lighting the adobe cityscape. Ski Santa Fe offers chances for winter activities; the GLOW event at the Santa Fe Botanical Garden produces a winter paradise.
Key West for Tropical Holidays
Key West, Florida, presents a cozy holiday hideaway. Two unusual celebrations include the Key West Holiday Fest and the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Visitors can relax on the beaches, tour old landmarks, and appreciate cheerful décor.
Park City for a Winter Sports Paradise
Park City, Utah, mixes holidays with winter activities. During the holidays, Snowfest boasts Santa's arrival via ski lift, a torchlight procession, and fireworks. The town's historic Main Street is festively decked. Significant draws are world-class skiing and snowboarding.
| Destination | State | Avg. December Temperature (°C/°F) | Key Highlights & Activities | Accommodation Suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leavenworth | Washington | -1 to -6°C / 30 to 21°F | Bavarian-themed village, Christmas Lighting Festival, Nutcracker Museum, reindeer farm, sleigh rides, skiing, snowboarding. | Enzian Inn, Bavarian Lodge, Linderhof Inn |
| Avila Beach | California | 18°C / 64°F | Beaches, hot springs, whale watching, pier, hiking, wine tasting. | Avila La Fonda Hotel |
| Durango | Colorado | 5 to -10°C / 41 to 14°F | Historic steam train, skiing, snowboarding, craft breweries, Old West vibes. | General Palmer Hotel, Strater Hotel, Rochester Hotel |
| Waikiki | Hawaii | 28°C / 82°F | Beach, luxury hotels, surfing, Diamond Head hike, snorkeling. | Halekulani Hotel, Hokulani Waikiki |
| New York City | New York | 7°C / 45°F | Holiday window displays, Rockefeller Center ice rink, Christmas markets, Nutcracker Ballet. | The Plaza, Lotte New York Palace, The Ritz-Carlton Central Park, The Peninsula New York |
| Siesta Key | Florida | 23°C / 73°F | Beaches, relaxed vibe, swimming, snorkeling, shopping. | The Capri at Siesta, Tropical Beach Resorts, Siesta Key Palms Resort |
| Williamsburg | Virginia | 12°C / 54°F | Colonial houses, Christmas decorations, Grand Illumination, holiday markets. | Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge, Colonial Houses |
| Nashville | Tennessee | 11°C / 52°F | Gaylord Opryland Resort, Christmas lights, ice sculptures, country music shows. | Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center |
| Aspen | Colorado | 2 to -12°C / 36 to 10°F | Ski resort, après-ski culture, luxury hotels, snow sports. | The Little Nell |
| Crystal Beach | Texas | 17°C / 63°F | Beaches, relaxed vibe, dolphin and bird watching, sunsets. | Crystal Palace Resort, The 409 Bolivar Beach Hotel |
