Best place to travel in December in USA

If you’re pondering the best place to travel in December within the USA, consider New York City. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, especially around Christmas time. Manhattan offers numerous festive activities and attractions that you’ll love exploring. Stay near Bryant Park for easy access to holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and beautifully lit decorations. While Rockefeller Center tempts many visitors with its iconic tree and rink, nearby lodgings can be crowded so opt for an area like Bryant Park instead.

Experience New York City’s Holiday Charm

Experience the magic of New York City during the holiday season. For a memorable stay, book a room in Manhattan, particularly near Bryant Park. This central location offers easy access to festive spots without excessive crowds.

Bryant Park becomes an enchanting Christmas Village with food stalls and pop-up shops. Here you can also enjoy ice skating under twinkling lights or warm up with cocktails inside cozy bars. A short walk away is Rockefeller Center’s iconic tree, which shines brightest at night.

Although crowded, it’s free to see unless you opt for some fun on the ice rink below—definitely worth booking ahead due to high demand. For accommodation right across from Bryant Park Christmas Village, consider staying at Bryant Park Hotel. The rooms are modern yet compact by NYC standards and boast amenities like a chic basement bar, perfect for winding down after exploring bustling streets.

Note though that costs run steep; one night’s splurge could set you back around $500.

It guarantees prime proximity to attractions including FAO Schwarz toy store and Central Park, beautifully dressed in winter hues. Finally, head over to Rolf’s famous spot adorned with baubles, creating an unforgettable photo backdrop. There’s always something happening, transforming the city into a wonderland and giving fresh reasons to return annually!

Discover Colorado’s Winter Wonderland

When you land in Denver, picking up a car is easy. Shuttles wait just outside baggage claim. Opt for an SUV with four-wheel drive; it costs $380 for seven days and ensures safe travel on winter roads.

Denver offers much to explore, so consider staying more than one night. A stay at The Sonesta Downtown Denver costs about $89 per night and places you near the 16th Street Mall. In Vail, hotels like The Sonnenalp or The Sebastian cater to all types of travelers but Grand Hyatt might offer better value overall.

Winter sports dominate here: skiing or snowboarding are must-try activities costing around $180 per day plus equipment rental fees of approximately $160 daily. Vail Mountain Resort spans over 5,300 skiable acres managed by Marriot teams—making it ideal even if you’re new to winter sports as I was reluctant myself initially stepping out from my comfort zone into fun snowy adventures! Snowmobiling through Nova Guides also promises thrills!

Tours run two hours long ($175/person driving), transport included with gear provided. Helmet, boots, and goggles remain essential items, which should be fulfilled individually beforehand.

Enjoy Hawaii’s Tropical December Delights

In Honolulu, holiday celebrations begin the first Saturday in December with the popular Honolulu City Lights. This event features a dazzling Public Works Electric Light Parade, local marching bands, and city leaders. The highlight is lighting an enormous 50-foot Christmas tree at the Honolulu Hale.

This celebration extends nightly through December with festive lights adorning downtown buildings and trees. Don’t miss the barefoot Shaka Santa sculpture flashing his “hang loose” hand gesture at the municipal building. If you’re near Diamond Head, catch the Festival of Lights Christmas Boat Parade for more illuminated fun on water.

Waikiki’s top hotels host luxurious Christmas luaus blending traditional Hawaiian music and dances with seasonal flair—ideal to savor tropical delights while embracing island culture. Kona offers its charm during mid-December activities like Kailua-Kona’s historic parade where Saint Nick wishes everyone “Mele Kalikimaka.” Enjoy concerts such as the free one held every year on December 22nd at Old Kona Airport Pavilion, or attend candlelight services across venues including Living Stones Church.

In Lahaina on Maui Island, the Banyan Tree is lit brilliantly throughout the nights until the end of the month, inviting visitors to walk under its enchanted canopy and take pictures with family and friends.

Afterwards, they can head to the beachside for Pacific Whale Foundation cruises, featuring brunch, whale watching, live Hawaiian tunes, and stunning views, creating unforgettable memories infused with the Aloha spirit.

Explore California’s Coastal Winter Beauty

Take a leisurely stroll along sandy shores and admire the dramatic ocean vistas without summer crowds. The winter sky often showcases stunning sunsets in hues of orange and pink, perfect for romantic walks or quiet contemplation. Prepare to be mesmerized by gray whales as they migrate from Alaska to Baja California through Monterey Bay.

Hop aboard a whale-watching excursion to witness these majestic creatures breach, spout, and play against the vast ocean backdrop. This humbling experience brings you closer to nature’s grandeur. Explore charming coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey with their cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes offering steaming cocoa.

In Monterey, dive into Cannery Row’s rich maritime history where past meets present in an enchanting setting. Monterey Bay boasts cultural delights that come alive in winter. Wander historic streets adorned with adobe buildings whispering tales of California’s past or visit Cannery Row transformed into a vibrant waterfront destination filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants showcasing local artistry.

Winter is also culinary heaven here; savor fresh seasonal ingredients at farm-to-table eateries offering locally sourced seafood paired perfectly with award-winning wines from nearby vineyards! Visit farmers’ markets brimming over an array gourmet treats mingling alongside friendly producers themselves adding warmth character every interaction! Outdoor enthusiasts can lace up hiking boots explore scenic trails winding lush forests rugged coastlines alike: whether seeking adventure solace outdoors beautiful diverse terrains awaiting invite wholeheartedly embrace excitement exploration harmony natural settings!

Embrace the Festivities in Chicago, USA

Don’t miss special events like holiday concerts, a sensory-friendly evening, and an adult’s night out. Brookfield Zoo hosts its annual Holiday Magic display with over two million twinkling lights for more than 40 years now. Walk the 600-foot-long Tunnel of Lights synchronized to music.

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden offers an immersive nature-inspired experience after dark. Stroll through illuminated trails and light installations that transform into a dazzling wonderland. In Lisle, check out Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum on a one-mile paved path with captivating lighting designs.

Cozy up by the fire afterward for s’mores or visit the concessions tent. Explore Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago featuring German treats and traditional crafts such as wooden cuckoo clocks, hand-knit gloves among others. Get your keepsake souvenir mug filled with mulled wine or hot chocolate here too!

Millennium Park Ice Skating provides panoramic views of Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) dusted in snow along iconic city skylines while Maggie Daley Park has its unique Skating Ribbon through whimsical landscapes (both open from November till March). See official Christmas trees shining brightly near the Michigan Avenue/Washington Street intersection every year since the past century tradition began. Perfect photo opportunities abound around there, always guaranteed during tree-lighting ceremonies held each November, including live performances plus fireworks displays.

Savor Florida’s Warm Beach Escapes

Florida offers some of the best warm beach escapes in December. Head to South Florida for guaranteed warmth; temperatures often stay between 70°F and 80°F during this time. Miami Beach provides vibrant nightlife, upscale dining, and soft sandy beaches perfect for lounging.

For a more tranquil experience, visit Naples on the Gulf Coast. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches and calm waters, it’s ideal for families or those seeking relaxation. The Florida Keys offer an island atmosphere without leaving the U.S., with Key West’s laid-back vibe providing excellent snorkeling spots at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

If you’re into nature walks or bird watching, Everglades National Park isn’t far away. You can take airboat tours that bring you up close to diverse wildlife such as alligators and exotic birds. Fort Lauderdale boasts extensive canal systems reminiscent of Venice along with impressive art exhibits like those found at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale.

In Sarasota County southwards towards Siesta Key Beach – named one of America’s top beaches by Dr. Stephen Leatherman (“Dr.Beach”) – expect powdery quartz-crystal sands set against azure waters offering breathtaking sunsets each evening! Or venture northward if aiming slightly milder weather yet beautiful coastline scenes: Pensacola features stunning sugar-white seashores within Panhandle region complementing rich historic significance evidenced via sites including Naval Aviation Museum showcasing aviation history craftsmanship preserving national legacy beautifully!

Uncover Texas Hill Country’s Hidden Gems

When you visit Texas Hill Country in December, you’ll find unique hidden gems. Start with Enchanted Rock State Natural Area; its granite domes offer great hiking and incredible views. Nearby Fredericksburg charms visitors with German heritage, wineries, and festive lights.

Next is Hamilton Pool Preserve near Dripping Springs. This natural pool formed by a collapsed grotto has clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip even in December due to the mild climate. Stop at Wimberley’s Blue Hole Regional Park, which stays open year-round.

It offers scenic trails through ancient cypress trees along Cypress Creek, where temperatures hover around 60°F during winter months. Travel to the Llano River Region, known for eagle sightings each winter as they migrate south. This area provides excellent bird-watching opportunities, especially at places like Inks Lake State Park, which hosts an array of wildlife against dramatic landscapes.

For a December getaway in the USA, consider New York City. The holiday lights, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, and festive events make it magical. Alternatively, Aspen offers snowy slopes for ski enthusiasts alongside cozy lodges with firelit evenings.

If you prefer warmer weather, Key West provides sunny days and beautiful beaches without winter’s chill. Each destination has unique experiences tailored to different interests—urban excitement in NYC or serene relaxation by the beach in Florida ensures an unforgettable trip during this festive month.

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