December is a great time of year to visit the United States as the country prepares to celebrate the festive season.
Whether you dream of immersing yourself in the magic of Christmas along the glittering streets of New York, escaping to a snowy winter wonderland like Colorado or swapping cold temperatures for glorious tropical sunshine in Hawaii, there's an American holiday destination that will match your idea of the perfect December getaway.
For those wondering about the best places to visit in America in December, the answer ultimately depends on the type of holiday you are looking to experience. Whether you are travelling as a couple, planning a family adventure or seeking a luxurious group getaway with friends, our Luxury Travel Specialists have put together a number of potential destinations to help you decide where is best for your next December getaway in the USA.
The Best Places to Visit in December in the USA for Christmas
For an unforgettable festive getaway, few destinations can rival New York. Visiting the city in December is like stepping into a Christmas film, with dazzling decorations, spectacular department store window displays and an unmistakable sense of excitement filling the neon streets.
The city's legendary festive celebrations make New York one of the best places in America to visit in December for anyone looking to get into the festive spirit. Fifth Avenue becomes a must visit shopping destination, with its beautifully decorated stores and famous window displays providing plenty of inspiration for Christmas gifts. Whether you are searching for something special for a loved one or simply want to indulge in some festive retail therapy, New York's thriving shopping districts offer something for practically everyone.
One of the city's most iconic festive sights is of course the giant Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, which provides an instantly recognisable backdrop that you will have seen countless times in movies and TV shows. You can combine a trip to see the tree with ice skating beneath the Manhattan skyline at Wollman Rink in Central Park for a quintessential New York Christmas holiday experience.
Away from the festive attractions, December is also a wonderful opportunity to discover New York's world-class restaurants, museums, Broadway shows and neighbourhoods. For couples, families and solo travellers alike, the city provides an exhilarating combination of Christmas magic and luxury city break experiences.
The Best Places in America to Visit in December for Snow
If your image of the perfect December holiday setting involves snow covered landscapes, cosy accommodation and exhilarating days on the slopes, Aspen in Colorado is difficult to match. Renowned for its high-end skiing and glamorous atmosphere, Aspen is one of the best places to visit in the USA in December for a truly sophisticated winter escape.
Set against a picture-perfect alpine backdrop, Aspen combines the thrill of skiing with an atmosphere that is distinctly luxurious. The surrounding mountains offer superb opportunities for winter sports, while the town itself is filled with elegant boutiques, sophisticated restaurants and inviting bars infused with festive merriment.
Aspen's vibrant apres ski culture is one of the major attractions. After a day spent skiing or snowboarding, you can relax with a warming drink beside a roaring fire, enjoy an exceptional meal or explore the town's stylish nightlife. This makes it the perfect holiday destination for groups of friends or family with mixed interests, ensuring that there is something to appeal to all members of your booking party.
December brings an especially magical atmosphere to Aspen as snow blankets the surrounding peaks and the town embraces the festive season. Whether you are an experienced skier seeking luxury or simply want to experience the romance of a snowy mountain retreat, Aspen provides an exceptional winter holiday setting.
The Best Places to Visit in the USA in December for Sun
For travellers who want to put as much distance as possible between themselves and the cool winter temperatures, Hawaii provides a spectacular and warm American holiday destination. With balmy tropical temperatures, beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts, this island paradise is one of the best places to visit in America in December for sunshine breaks.
Hawaii's appeal lies in its remarkable variety. Its golden beaches provide the perfect setting for relaxing beneath the warm Pacific sun, while the surrounding landscapes offer opportunities for adventure and exploration. Depending on where you choose to stay, you can enjoy everything from watersports and snorkelling to hiking, sightseeing and rich cultural experiences.
Hawaii is particularly well suited to families, as its high-end holiday resorts offer an impressive selection of facilities and activities designed to suit different ages and interests. Parents can unwind beside the pool or enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment while children and teenagers make the most of dedicated kids club activities and take on water based adventures.
Couples will find plenty to love too, from spectacular sunsets and private beaches to exceptional dining and remarkable accommodation. With a choice of islands, each offering its own character and experiences, a holiday in December to Hawaii can be tailored to suit everything from a relaxing beach break to an adventurous island-hopping getaway.
Plan Your December Holiday in America
From the festive excitement of New York and the snowy peaks of Aspen to the tropical beauty of Hawaii, the best places to visit in America in December offer something for every kind of traveller.
Whether Christmas traditions, winter sports or sunshine are at the top of your wish list, our Luxury Travel Specialists can offer you the benefit of their first hand experience by recommending destinations and resorts that are a perfect match for you. We'll take on-board your stated preferences and put together a tailor made package which is every bit as unique as you are, filled with the experiences that will help you enjoy the perfect December getaway in the USA. To start creating your own tailor made December getaway in the USA, get in touch with our Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts today.