Keanu•Dec 10, 2025Back to ArticlesKeanu•Dec 10, 2025
The 10 Best Places to Visit in the US in December
Keanu•Dec 10, 2025December reshapes the US travel landscape into a mix of winter wonderlands, festive cities, quiet coastlines, and warm-weather escapes. Snow settles across mountain towns, holiday lights glow in historic neighborhoods, and southern destinations hit their most comfortable temperatures of the year. For anyone choosing the best places to visit in the US in December, the month delivers richness at both ends of the temperature spectrum — from crisp alpine mornings to breezy beach afternoons.
This list highlights 10 states that feel especially alive in December, each offering something distinct: ski-country charm, coastal calm, holiday markets, or desert sunshine. Several pair naturally with Wander’s luxury vacation rentals, creating thoughtful bases for winter travel.
1. Colorado
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
Colorado steps fully into winter in December. Mountain towns like Telluride, Crested Butte, and Aspen glow with holiday lights, powder days begin rolling through the Rockies, and ski resorts hit their stride. Even non-skiers enjoy the season, thanks to sleigh rides, cozy taverns, snowshoe trails, and festive events in nearly every valley.
For travelers deciding where to travel in the US in December for a classic winter experience, Colorado delivers everything from deep snow to high-energy après scenes.
Things to do
Ski or snowboard at Crested Butte or Telluride
Snowshoe through quiet aspen groves
Explore festive mountain-town markets
Ride the free gondola in Telluride for sweeping views
Enjoy long evenings by the fire after bluebird days
Where to stay
Travel tips
Storm cycles can be strong — plan flexible travel windows
Book ski school early if traveling over holidays
2. Vermont
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
Vermont feels storybook-ready this time of year. Snow flurries begin dusting the Green Mountains, small towns glow with wreaths and window lights, and ski resorts kick off their winter seasons with early-December events. The slower pace lends itself to long breakfasts, scenic drives, and afternoons spent exploring general stores, trails, or breweries.
Among the best US vacation spots in December for cozy, classic winter charm, Vermont rises to the top.
Things to do
Ski Stowe or Sugarbush as the season opens
Wander historic town centers like Woodstock
Sip hot cider at farm stands and markets
Snowshoe early-season trails in quiet forests
Where to stay
Travel tips
Expect variable snow early in the month
Holiday weeks fill quickly in ski towns
3. New York
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
New York has two very different but equally compelling personalities in December. Upstate offers snow-covered cabins, frozen lakes, and quiet mountain mornings — ideal for travelers seeking stillness. Meanwhile, New York City transforms into a holiday capital with festive markets, seasonal performances, and iconic decorations throughout Manhattan.
For travelers weighing the best places to visit in the US in December with a mix of culture and winter charm, New York offers both.
Things to do
Browse holiday markets in NYC
Visit Rockefeller Center in its fully-lit splendor
Snowshoe or hike quiet Catskills trails
Explore Hudson Valley’s festive villages
Where to stay
Travel tips
Upstate warms interiors quickly, but nights get very cold
NYC crowds are busiest mid-December through New Year’s
4. North Carolina
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
The Blue Ridge Mountains shift into a crisp, quiet winter season in December — perfect for travelers who prefer calm trails, cozy dining, and scenic drives without leaf-season crowds. Asheville lights up with holiday markets, craft makers, and winter brewery events, while the Biltmore Estate transforms into a spectacular candlelit display.
For travelers deciding where to travel in the US in December for mild winter charm, North Carolina is a thoughtful choice.
Things to do
Experience Christmas at Biltmore
Explore Blue Ridge winter overlooks
Wander Asheville’s galleries and bakeries
Hike low-elevation trails in clear, cool air
Where to stay
Travel tips
Weather varies widely — pack for cold mornings
Mountain roads can frost overnight
5. Tennessee
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
The Great Smoky Mountains take on a misty, atmospheric quality in winter. Light snow often settles on higher ridges, wildlife becomes more visible, and towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge lean fully into holiday celebrations. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas alone draws travelers from around the country.
For travelers searching for the best US vacation spots in December that mix mountain landscapes with lively seasonal events, Tennessee is a warm, welcoming fit.
Things to do
Visit Dollywood’s holiday lights
Drive through Cades Cove on quiet winter mornings
Attend Christmas performances in Pigeon Forge
Explore cozy Appalachian eateries
Where to stay
Travel tips
Higher elevations can ice over — drive with care
Weekdays offer quieter park access
6. Oregon
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
Oregon’s December atmosphere leans into mood — storm-watching on the coast, snow-covered trails around Mount Hood, and warm interiors in Portland’s cafés and restaurants. It’s a month of cozy contrast: roaring waves, forest mist, and valley wineries hosting candlelit tastings.
For travelers deciding where to travel in the US in December for dramatic landscapes and a slower winter pace, Oregon delivers both.
Things to do
Experience winter on the coast at Samuel H. Boardman
Ski or snowshoe around Mount Hood
Explore Portland’s bookstores and food scene
Sip wine by the fire in the Willamette Valley
Where to stay
Travel tips
Coastal winds are strong — bring sturdy layers
Mountain weather changes quickly
7. Washington
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
Washington’s winter personality feels part alpine, part Nordic. Leavenworth transforms into a Bavarian-style holiday village, Seattle’s lights reflect across the waterfront, and the San Juan Islands settle into a quiet, misty season that’s ideal for relaxation. Snow arrives early in the Cascades, opening ski areas and scenic winter trails.
For travelers choosing the best places to visit in the US in December for festive settings and cozy landscapes, Washington is hard to beat.
Things to do
Visit Leavenworth’s Christmas Lighting Festival
Explore winter markets in Seattle
Ferry to the San Juan Islands for a peaceful retreat
Ski in the Cascades
Where to stay
Travel tips
Ferry schedules shift in winter
Mountain passes may require traction tires
8. California
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
California offers a rare two-season experience in December: winter in the Sierra and sunshine along the coast and desert. Big Sur becomes crisp and incredibly clear, wine country settles into its quiet season, and Palm Springs hits its most comfortable temperatures of the year. Travelers can ski Lake Tahoe in the morning and dine outdoors in Palm Springs two days later.
For travelers searching for the best places to visit in the US in December with variety, California is unrivaled.
Things to do
Enjoy winter storms and dramatic surf in Big Sur
Hike crisp vineyard trails around Healdsburg
Relax poolside under warm desert sun in Palm Springs
Ski or snowboard around Lake Tahoe
Where to stay
Travel tips
Coastal weather is coolest in the mornings
Tahoe roads require chains after storms
9. Florida
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
Florida hits its sweet spot in December: warm days, low humidity, and calm seas ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and boating. The Keys feel especially laid-back before New Year’s, and cities like West Palm Beach host outdoor markets and waterfront events under clear skies.
For travelers weighing the best US vacation spots in December for sunshine, Florida is an effortless choice.
Things to do
Snorkel or paddle through warm winter water in Islamorada
Explore West Palm Beach’s cafés and harbor
Visit state parks in cooler, comfortable weather
Enjoy long days outside without summer heat
Where to stay
Travel tips
Evenings are breezy but comfortable
December is popular — book activities early
10. South Carolina
Why it’s one of the best places to visit in December
South Carolina’s Lowcountry shifts into a soft, pleasant winter season. Charleston’s historic district glows with décor, Hilton Head stays mild enough for beach walks and bike rides, and seafood reaches its coolest-water flavor peak. Crowds thin dramatically compared to summer, leaving room for slower exploration.
For travelers deciding where to travel in the US in December for mild temperatures and seasonal charm, South Carolina is a subtle standout.
Things to do
Wander Charleston’s candlelit streets
Bike Hilton Head’s island trails
Enjoy quiet shelling walks along wide beaches
Visit historic homes and waterfront markets
Where to stay
Travel tips
Water is cold, but air temps remain comfortable
Holiday events cluster early in the month
Plan Your December Getaway With Wander
December invites travelers to choose their season – snow-draped mountains, festive cities, crisp coastlines, or warm desert and tropical breezes. Wander’s luxury vacation rentals across the US offer the kind of space, design, and comfort that make winter travel feel both grounded and elevated. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or an off-season escape, December brings the country into one of its most atmospheric months.
Find the state that fits your December mood, then let your Wander stay shape the season.
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