Best places to travel in December is one of the most searched topics this holiday season as Americans plan their final trips of 2025. Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered mountains, tropical beaches, or festive city lights, this month offers something for every type of traveler.
From the Christmas markets of Europe to sunny escapes in the Caribbean and scenic U.S. towns filled with holiday charm, December is the perfect time to explore the world. Here’s a look at this year’s most popular and verified destinations attracting travelers in 2025.
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1. New York City, USA – Iconic Holiday Magic
Few destinations match the December energy of New York City. The Big Apple transforms into a winter wonderland, with decorated streets, holiday markets, and the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, which was officially lit on November 27, 2025.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Ice skating at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park.
- Shopping along Fifth Avenue’s luxury holiday window displays.
- Catching the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.
- Exploring festive attractions at Central Park and Times Square.
Average December temperatures hover between 32°F and 45°F, making it chilly but ideal for cozy winter fashion and hot cocoa strolls through the city.
2. Aspen, Colorado – A Winter Paradise for Ski Lovers
For travelers seeking snow and adventure, Aspen, Colorado, ranks among the best places to travel in December. As one of America’s premier ski destinations, Aspen offers perfect powder, luxury resorts, and high-end dining.
This year, Aspen Snowmass reported excellent early-season snow conditions, with all four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—open for skiing and snowboarding.
Highlights include:
- The annual 12 Days of Aspen festival featuring music, fireworks, and family events.
- Après-ski dining at local favorites like The Little Nell.
- Scenic gondola rides offering breathtaking mountain views.
December is peak season, so travelers should plan ahead for accommodations, with average nightly rates starting around $400 for premium lodges.
3. Honolulu, Hawaii – Sun, Sand, and Festive Spirit
For those escaping the cold, Honolulu, Hawaii, offers the perfect tropical December retreat. Temperatures average a comfortable 78°F to 83°F, providing beach-perfect weather for Christmas week.
Visitors can relax on Waikiki Beach, hike Diamond Head Crater, or attend festive events like the Honolulu City Lights, a month-long celebration featuring parades, music, and dazzling holiday displays.
Other December highlights:
- Whale-watching season begins, offering incredible sightings off Oahu’s southern coast.
- Local luaus add Hawaiian holiday flair with music and traditional feasts.
- Luxury resorts like the Halekulani and Moana Surfrider offer special Christmas menus and events.
Honolulu combines warm-weather relaxation with holiday celebration, making it one of the best winter escapes in the Pacific.
4. Chicago, Illinois – Holiday Traditions and Winter Charm
Chicago transforms into a festive playground during December, offering a mix of classic Christmas experiences and cultural attractions.
The Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza is one of the oldest and largest German-style holiday markets in the U.S., drawing thousands of visitors for traditional food, ornaments, and mulled wine.
Must-see seasonal attractions include:
- The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival along Michigan Avenue.
- Ice skating at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink.
- Indoor exhibits at the Art Institute of Chicago featuring its annual holiday tree display.
Travelers should prepare for cold weather—temperatures average 25°F to 40°F—but the cozy cafes and museums make it worth bundling up.
5. Orlando, Florida – Family Fun and Theme Park Magic
December is one of the best times to visit Orlando, especially for families. The weather remains mild, crowds are lighter before Christmas week, and the city’s theme parks go all out for the holidays.
Top December experiences include:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.
- Universal Orlando’s Grinchmas celebration featuring The Grinch & Friends.
- Festive parades and light shows at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.
Average highs reach 74°F, creating ideal conditions for both park hopping and poolside relaxation. Orlando’s combination of sunshine and Christmas spirit makes it one of the most family-friendly destinations this month.
6. Vienna, Austria – Europe’s Christmas Capital
For travelers heading abroad, Vienna, Austria, remains one of the most enchanting places to travel in December. The city’s world-famous Christmas markets have returned for 2025, with dozens of festive stalls set up across its historic squares.
Top experiences include:
- The Vienna Christmas Dream market at Rathausplatz.
- Classical holiday concerts featuring the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
- Ice skating at Vienna Ice World in front of City Hall.
Average temperatures range from 30°F to 40°F, creating a cozy winter ambiance perfect for sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine while exploring the markets.
7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Scenic Winter Adventure
Lake Tahoe, straddling the California-Nevada border, offers both adventure and relaxation during December. This region is currently enjoying excellent snow coverage in 2025, with major resorts like Heavenly, Northstar, and Palisades Tahoe fully open for skiing and snowboarding.
Beyond skiing, December visitors can:
- Take sleigh rides through snow-covered meadows.
- Enjoy cozy lakeside cabins with fireplaces.
- Experience festive nightlife in South Lake Tahoe’s casino resorts.
With its combination of breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation, Lake Tahoe continues to be one of the most popular domestic winter getaways in the country.
8. Charleston, South Carolina – A Mild and Historic Escape
For travelers who prefer mild temperatures and Southern charm, Charleston, South Carolina, is a perfect December choice. Average temperatures hover around 58°F, allowing for comfortable sightseeing without heavy winter gear.
Charleston’s Holiday Festival of Lights, held at James Island County Park, features over two million twinkling lights and festive displays. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the city’s cobblestone streets, historic tours, and waterfront dining.
This mix of warmth, culture, and festive décor makes Charleston a unique winter destination for travelers seeking something quieter and more intimate than the big cities.
9. Cancun, Mexico – Beach Bliss and Holiday Festivities
Many Americans head south to Cancun for sunshine and relaxation during December. This Caribbean hotspot offers 80°F temperatures, turquoise waters, and all-inclusive resorts decorated for Christmas.
Highlights include:
- Holiday beachfront dinners at resorts like Hyatt Ziva and Secrets The Vine.
- Snorkeling and diving at Isla Mujeres.
- Day trips to Chichen Itza or Tulum for cultural exploration.
With direct flights from most major U.S. cities, Cancun remains one of the easiest and most affordable international destinations for a December getaway.
10. Nashville, Tennessee – Country Christmas Celebration
Rounding out the list is Nashville, where country music meets Christmas cheer. The city’s festive atmosphere peaks in December with events like the Gaylord Opryland’s Christmas Spectacular and Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate.
Visitors can enjoy live performances, decorated honky-tonks, and southern-style holiday meals throughout downtown. Nashville’s mix of music, food, and family fun has made it one of 2025’s most recommended domestic destinations for December travelers.
From snowy mountains to sunny beaches, the best places to travel in December 2025 offer something for every type of traveler — adventure, relaxation, and the magic of the holidays.