December is a fantastic time for travel, offering a mix of winter wonderlands and warm escapes. SIXT.VN is here to guide you to the best destinations, providing seamless travel solutions across Vietnam and beyond. Let’s explore some incredible spots to make your December unforgettable, including convenient transportation options and holiday travel tips.
1. Leavenworth, Washington: A Bavarian Winter Wonderland
Are you dreaming of a fairytale Christmas? Leavenworth, Washington, transforms into a picturesque Bavarian-style village, illuminated with over half a million lights for its famous Christmas Lighting Festival. According to the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, December is one of the busiest months for tourism, drawing visitors with its unique holiday charm.
Leavenworth in the winter
What makes Leavenworth special in December?
Leavenworth offers a magical, snow-covered Bavarian atmosphere with carolers, holiday treats, sleigh rides, and visits from Santa. The Village of Lights: Christmastown is a family-friendly event featuring gingerbread house displays and Krampus appearances.
How to get there and what to do?
Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and drive 2.5 hours to Leavenworth. Enjoy gazing at dazzling light displays, snowshoeing and tubing at Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, sipping mulled wine at Christkindlmarkt-style stalls, taking a scenic sleigh ride through Icicle Valley, and visiting the quirky Nutcracker Museum.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Christmas Lighting Festival | Over half a million lights illuminate the town. |
| Village of Lights: Christmastown | Family-friendly event with gingerbread houses and Santa appearances. |
| Leavenworth Winter Sports Club | Offers snowshoeing and tubing. |
| Nutcracker Museum | A quirky museum dedicated to nutcrackers. |
2. Avila Beach, California: A Sunny Coastal Escape
Craving some Vitamin D during the winter months? Avila Beach, California, offers some of the warmest temperatures in the country in December. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Avila Beach benefits from a unique microclimate that keeps it warmer than other coastal towns.
Avila Beach California December
Why choose Avila Beach for a December getaway?
Avila Beach boasts one of the warmest and sunniest microclimates on the Central California coast, thanks to its sheltered position in San Luis Obispo Bay. Fun events like Santa’s Doggie Parade add to the festive atmosphere.
How to enjoy Avila Beach in December?
Drive four hours on the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles. Relax on the beach, watch surfers, hike the peaceful Bob Jones Trail, take leisurely bike rides, soak in the natural hot springs at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, and hunt for unique seasonal gifts at Avila Valley Barn.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Relaxing on the beach | Enjoy the warm temperatures and sunshine. |
| Hiking the Bob Jones Trail | A peaceful trail perfect for a leisurely hike. |
| Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort | Soak in natural hot springs. |
| Avila Valley Barn | Hunt for unique seasonal gifts. |
3. Durango, Colorado: A Snowy Alpine Adventure
Looking for a historic mountain town transformed into a snowy alpine escape? Durango, Colorado, offers skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Purgatory Resort, charming holiday-decorated downtown shops, and cozy mountain-town vibes. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a magical Polar Express ride, according to the railway’s official website.
Durango in the winter
What makes Durango an ideal December destination?
Durango comes alive with seasonal events like the Festival of Trees & Wreaths at the Durango Train Museum and the community-wide Noel Night celebration.
What to do in Durango during December?
Drive 6 hours from Denver and ride the magical Polar Express on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, go skiing, stroll through the festive lights and shops of downtown Durango, and go snowshoeing in the scenic San Juan National Forest.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Riding the Polar Express | A magical train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. |
| Skiing at Purgatory Resort | Enjoy skiing and snowboarding. |
| Strolling through downtown Durango | Explore the festive lights and shops. |
| Snowshoeing in San Juan National Forest | Experience the scenic beauty of the forest. |
4. New York City: An Iconic Winter Wonderland
Experience the undeniable magic of New York City during the Christmas season. The city transforms into a magical winter wonderland with festive lights, holiday window displays, and iconic seasonal attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. According to NYC & Company, the city’s official tourism organization, millions visit New York in December for the holiday season.
New York Christmas
Why visit New York City in December?
New York City offers seasonal shows and events like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Santaland at Macy’s, holiday markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, and Hanukkah celebrations across the city.
What to see and do in New York in December?
Fly into JFK International Airport and check out the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, take a twirl on Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, warm up with a hot apple cider at the Winter Village at Bryant Park, go for a snow-dusted stroll in Central Park, and catch a performance of the Nutcracker Ballet.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Festive window displays | Explore the beautifully decorated windows along Fifth Avenue. |
| Rockefeller Center Ice Rink | Enjoy ice skating at this iconic location. |
| Winter Village at Bryant Park | Warm up with hot apple cider and explore holiday markets. |
| Performance of the Nutcracker Ballet | Catch a classic holiday performance. |
5. Williamsburg, Virginia: A Festive Colonial Christmas
Discover the ultra-charming historic gem of Williamsburg, Virginia, transformed into a festive colonial wonderland with candlelit streets, historical reenactments, and seasonal events at Colonial Williamsburg. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation highlights the Grand Illumination as a key event of the holiday season.
Williamsburg Virginia in the winter
What makes Williamsburg special during December?
Williamsburg elevates its cozy, small-town charm with traditional decorations, carol singing, and hot cider by the fire.
How to experience Williamsburg’s holiday magic?
Fly into Newport News/Williamsburg Airport (PHF) and attend the Grand Illumination with fireworks and candlelit streets, Busch Gardens Christmas Town with over 10 million lights, the Williamsburg Christmas Parade with illuminated floats, and the Yorktown Christmas Market. Shop for seasonal treats, attend wreath-making workshops, and experience a colonial-style Christmas dinner at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Grand Illumination | Fireworks and candlelit streets at Colonial Williamsburg. |
| Busch Gardens Christmas Town | Over 10 million lights and holiday shows. |
| Williamsburg Christmas Parade | Illuminated floats and festive entertainment. |
| Christiana Campbell’s Tavern | Experience a colonial-style Christmas dinner. |
6. Gaylord Opryland Resort, Nashville: A Dazzling Holiday Destination
Be wowed by the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, transformed into a dazzling holiday destination with over 3 million Christmas lights, indoor snow tubing, ice skating, and themed events. According to the Gaylord Opryland website, the resort’s “A Country Christmas” celebration is a major attraction.
Gaylord Opryland Resort Christmas
Why choose Gaylord Opryland for a December getaway?
The resort combines luxury with family-friendly holiday cheer under an enormous, climate-controlled glass atrium.
How to enjoy the Gaylord Opryland Resort?
Fly into Nashville International Airport (BNA) and explore the indoor gardens lit with millions of lights, glide across the outdoor ice rink, marvel at the hand-carved ICE sculptures, and enjoy festive shows and dining as part of their famous “A Country Christmas” celebration.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Exploring indoor gardens | Discover millions of lights and festive decorations. |
| Ice skating | Enjoy gliding across the outdoor ice rink. |
| ICE! Sculptures | Marvel at hand-carved ice sculptures. |
| Festive shows and dining | Partake in the “A Country Christmas” celebration. |
7. Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Historic New England Charm
Take a December break to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, filled with quaint brick-lined streets sparkling with holiday lights and glowing historic homes. The Strawbery Banke Museum highlights the Candlelight Stroll as a major holiday event.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
What makes Portsmouth a charming December destination?
Portsmouth offers a waterfront downtown that feels like a cozy, snow-dusted winter postcard brought to life.
What to experience in Portsmouth during the holidays?
Drive an hour from Boston and stroll through the illuminated streets, join in the Candlelight Stroll where historic homes are adorned with handmade decorations, watch the Illuminated Holiday Parade, and visit the Gingerbread House Exhibition at Portsmouth Historical Society.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Candlelight Stroll | Historic homes adorned with handmade decorations and illuminated by candlelight. |
| Illuminated Holiday Parade | Lighted floats and community performances. |
| Gingerbread House Exhibition | Creative confections showcased at Portsmouth Historical Society. |
| Exploring historic downtown | Shop and dine in the twinkling, historic streets. |
8. Waikiki, Hawaii: A Tropical Beachside Paradise
Escape to Waikiki, Hawaii, for an awesome hot December vacation with warm and sunny weather and a lively tropical atmosphere. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, December is a popular month for visitors seeking warm weather.
Waikiki Beach Hawaii
Why visit Waikiki in December?
Waikiki offers pale golden sands, calm turquoise waters, and beachfront dining with gorgeous views of Diamond Head. Visiting earlier in the month means fewer crowds and great accommodation deals.
How to enjoy Waikiki’s tropical vibes?
Fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and soak up the cool vibes on Waikiki Beach, go holiday shopping along Kalakaua Avenue, and watch world-class surfers at nearby Banzai Pipeline.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Relaxing on Waikiki Beach | Soak up the sun and enjoy the cool vibes. |
| Shopping along Kalakaua Avenue | Explore holiday shopping options. |
| Watching surfers at Banzai Pipeline | See world-class surfers in action. |
| Enjoying beachfront dining | Dine with gorgeous views of Diamond Head. |
9. Aspen, Colorado: An Upscale Alpine Escape
Discover Aspen, Colorado, a great choice for a winter break with world-class skiing and snowboarding, festive holiday lights, and a superb après-ski scene. The Aspen Chamber Resort Association highlights the 12 Days of Aspen as a key holiday event.
Aspen – places to visit in December
What makes Aspen a luxurious December destination?
Aspen offers a snow-covered alpine paradise with chic lodges and bars, luxury shopping and dining, and a magical winter atmosphere framed by the snowy peaks of the Colorado Rockies.
How to indulge in Aspen’s winter offerings?
Drive 3.5 hours from Denver and indulge in winter sports, sample the famous Après-Ski Culture at Bootsy Bellows and The Little Nell, explore chic boutiques, and discover the high-end restaurant scene.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Skiing and snowboarding | Enjoy world-class skiing on four iconic mountains. |
| Après-Ski Culture | Experience the chic lodges and bars. |
| Exploring chic boutiques | Discover luxury shopping options. |
| High-end restaurant scene | Indulge in gourmet dining experiences. |
10. Siesta Key, Florida: A Dreamy Gulf Coast Island
Love the idea of a dreamy hot winter vacation? Siesta Key, Florida, offers a peaceful, off-season coastal escape with mild weather and uncrowded beaches. According to Visit Sarasota County, December is the least humid month, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
Siesta Key Florida – hot December vacations
Why visit Siesta Key in December?
Siesta Key’s powder-soft white sand beaches are uncrowded, with good deals on accommodation and a laid-back island vibe with festive holiday events.
How to enjoy Siesta Key’s charm?
Fly into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and kick back on the award-winning white quartz sands of Siesta Beach, watch festive boats light up the water in the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade, explore the charming Siesta Key Village, and enjoy outdoor dining with sunset views over the Gulf.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Relaxing on Siesta Beach | Enjoy the award-winning white quartz sands. |
| Watching Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade | Festive boats lighting up the water. |
| Exploring Siesta Key Village | Discover charming shops and dining options. |
| Outdoor dining with sunset views | Enjoy beautiful sunset views over the Gulf. |
11. Biltmore Estate, Asheville: Opulent Gilded Age Elegance
Be amazed by the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, transformed into a magical holiday destination with grand halls and dazzling lights. The Biltmore Estate website highlights the Candlelight Christmas Evenings as a key attraction.
Biltmore Estate, Asheville at Christmas
Why visit the Biltmore Estate in December?
The Biltmore Estate offers candlelit evening tours, festive music, dazzling lights, and a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
How to experience Biltmore’s holiday magic?
Fly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and explore the estate for two full days, try wreath-making and ornament crafting, venture downtown, and explore quirky shops and excellent restaurants.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Candlelight Christmas Evenings | Flickering candles and live music throughout the mansion. |
| Festive lights in Antler Hill Village | Beautiful lights and displays. |
| Wine tastings at the estate’s winery | Complimentary seasonal wine tastings. |
| Exploring downtown Asheville | Discover quirky shops and excellent restaurants. |
12. Vermont: Quintessential New England Charm
Discover Vermont, a scenic northeastern U.S. state offering classic holiday imagery with picturesque towns and snow-blanketed mountains. According to the Vermont Department of Tourism, December is a prime time for winter sports and holiday events.
Christmas in Vermont
What makes Vermont special in December?
Vermont offers twinkling holiday lights, ski resorts in full swing, cozy inns, crackling fireplaces, and Christmas markets creating a classic New England winter wonderland.
How to enjoy Vermont’s winter charm?
Fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and go snowboarding at Stowe or Killington, shop holiday markets in Burlington, and check out the lively Burlington Holiday Market and quaint Grafton Christmas Market.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Snowboarding at Stowe | Enjoy the slopes at this popular ski resort. |
| Holiday markets in Burlington | Shop for unique gifts and festive treats. |
| Burlington Holiday Market | Lively market with local crafts and entertainment. |
| Grafton Christmas Market | Quaint market with traditional holiday offerings. |
13. Solvang, California: Charming European Holiday Atmosphere
Visit Solvang, California, a charming Danish-style city transformed into a festive wonderland during their annual ‘Julefest’. The Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau highlights Julefest as a month-long celebration.
Solvang at Christmas
Why visit Solvang in December?
Solvang offers twinkling lights, candlelit carolers, decorated streets, and cozy bakeries serving warm aebleskivers and gløgg set against the scenic Santa Ynez Valley backdrop.
How to experience Solvang’s Julefest?
Drive 2.5 hours from Los Angeles and browse the stalls at the Makers Market, explore the Scandi-inspired architecture, and enjoy the ‘hygge’ vibes in cozy cafes.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Browsing Makers Market | Discover unique handcrafted gifts. |
| Exploring Scandi architecture | Admire the Danish-style buildings. |
| Enjoying cozy cafes | Experience ‘hygge’ vibes with warm drinks and treats. |
| Attending Julefest events | Participate in various festive events throughout December. |
14. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Christmas City USA
Visiting Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, during December offers a magical experience in “Christmas City USA.” The Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce highlights the city’s festive vibe all year round, with December being exceptionally magical.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Usa
What makes Bethlehem a top Christmas destination?
Bethlehem features charming snow-dusted colonial streets, twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and festive events celebrating its European Moravian roots.
How to celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem?
Drive two hours from New York City and explore the Christkindlmarkt, visit the outdoor Christmas City Village, sip authentic German Glühwein, and discover 18th-century buildings and museums in the Historic Moravian District.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Christkindlmarkt | A large indoor market with German food and music. |
| Christmas City Village | Outdoor market with traditional wooden huts selling crafts and food. |
| Exploring Historic District | Discover 18th-century buildings and museums. |
| Sipping German Glühwein | Enjoy authentic German spiced wine. |
15. Whitefish, Montana: A Cozy Mountain Town
Experience Whitefish, Montana, a premier ski destination with powdery slopes, festive holiday events, and cozy mountain lodges. The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce highlights the Christmas Stroll as a key event.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Why choose Whitefish for a December getaway?
Whitefish offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, set against a stunning snow-covered backdrop near Glacier National Park.
What to enjoy in Whitefish during December?
Fly into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) and hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort, join in the Christmas Stroll, and warm up with après-ski dining at The Summit House.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort | Enjoy over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. |
| Christmas Stroll | Holiday music, photos with Santa, carol singing, and a tree lighting ceremony. |
| Après-ski dining at Summit House | Warm up with delicious food and drinks after a day on the slopes. |
| Visiting Glacier National Park | Explore the stunning natural beauty of the park. |
16. North Pole, Alaska: A Whimsical Christmas-Themed Town
Take a trip to North Pole, Alaska, a small city near Fairbanks known for its year-round Christmas theme. According to the North Pole, Alaska website, December is a particularly magical time to visit.
North Pole Alaska
Why visit North Pole, Alaska, in December?
North Pole offers snow-covered streets, dazzling Christmas lights, and the iconic Santa Claus House creating a festive wonderland.
How to experience North Pole’s holiday spirit?
Fly into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and visit the Santa Claus House, admire the dazzling light displays along Santa Claus Lane, and send a postcard stamped with a real North Pole postmark.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Visiting Santa Claus House | Meet Santa and shop for unique holiday gifts. |
| Admiring light displays | Enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights along Santa Claus Lane. |
| Sending North Pole postcards | Send postcards stamped with a real North Pole postmark. |
| Attending Winterfest | Enjoy local crafts and fireworks. |
17. Crystal Beach, Texas: A Laid-Back Gulf Coast Retreat
Discover Crystal Beach, Texas, a family-friendly beach offering a peaceful, off-season coastal escape with mild weather and wide-open drive-on beaches. The Bolivar Peninsula Tourism highlights the Crystaland Christmas Parade as a key event.
Crystal Beach, Texas – December Beach Vacation
What makes Crystal Beach a unique December destination?
Crystal Beach is an affordable coastal escape with fewer crowds, opportunities for spotting dolphins and migratory birds, and beautiful sunrises over the Gulf.
How to relax in Crystal Beach during December?
Fly into William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston and relax on the beach, attend the Bolivar Christmas Market, and enjoy the Crystaland Christmas Parade.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Relaxing on the beach | Enjoy the wide-open drive-on beaches. |
| Spotting dolphins and birds | Opportunities for wildlife viewing. |
| Attending Bolivar Market | Find local crafts and a tree lighting ceremony. |
| Enjoying Crystal Parade | Decorated golf carts and a Santa appearance. |
SIXT.VN: Your Partner for Seamless Travel
Planning your December getaway can be stress-free with SIXT.VN. Whether you need airport transfers, hotel bookings, or curated tour packages, SIXT.VN offers reliable and convenient services tailored to your needs.
How SIXT.VN can enhance your December travel:
- Airport Transfers: Start your trip smoothly with reliable airport pickup and drop-off services.
- Hotel Bookings: Choose from a wide range of accommodations to suit your budget and preferences.
- Tour Packages: Explore top destinations with expertly planned tours.
Why choose SIXT.VN?
- Convenience: Book all your travel needs in one place.
- Reliability: Trust in our dependable services.
- Customer Support: Receive dedicated support throughout your journey.
FAQs about Best Places to Travel in December
1. What are the best warm places to travel in December?
Destinations like Avila Beach, California, Waikiki, Hawaii, and Siesta Key, Florida, offer warm temperatures and sunny weather in December.
2. Where can I experience a magical Christmas atmosphere in the USA?
Leavenworth, Washington, New York City, and Williamsburg, Virginia, are known for their festive Christmas celebrations.
3. What are some good ski destinations in the USA for December?
Aspen, Colorado, and Whitefish, Montana, offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in December.
4. What are some unique destinations to visit in December?
North Pole, Alaska, and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, offer unique holiday-themed experiences.
5. What are the benefits of using SIXT.VN for travel planning?
SIXT.VN offers convenient airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tour packages, making travel planning stress-free.
6. How does SIXT.VN ensure reliable travel services?
SIXT.VN is committed to providing dependable services and dedicated customer support throughout your journey.
7. What types of accommodations can I book through SIXT.VN?
SIXT.VN offers a wide range of accommodations to suit your budget and preferences.
8. Can SIXT.VN help with planning customized tours?
Yes, SIXT.VN offers expertly planned tours to help you explore top destinations.
9. What should I pack for a December trip to a cold destination?
Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots.
10. What should I pack for a December trip to a warm destination?
Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Ready to Plan Your December Adventure?
Don’t let the winter blues get you down. With SIXT.VN, your dream December vacation is just a click away. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable trip. Let SIXT.VN handle the details so you can focus on making memories.
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Discover the Best Places To Travel In December with SIXT.VN. Your adventure awaits!
