good weekend trips in december

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11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

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The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and other popular Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

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With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

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While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

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Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

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This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

32 Warm Places to Visit in December in USA (Best Spots to Escape the Cold)

Posted on Published: August 10, 2022  - Last updated: October 7, 2023

There’s nothing quite like a warm getaway to escape the cold, dreary weather. The USA has some pretty incredible vacation spots that are perfect for winter. Feel the sunshine at these amazing destinations: warm places to visit in December in the USA!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

To find warmth in the USA in December, you’re pretty much heading south. From island vacations to coastal destinations and deserts, there’s so many beautiful and adventurous places to beat the cold.

This list of warm places to visit in USA in December includes spots you’ve definitely had on your radar – but perhaps more intriguing are the underrated places you haven’t heard of!

Whether you’re looking for a vacation destination to get outdoors and active instead of cooped up, a perfect location to spend your holiday break, or you’re just looking for the best beach to visit in December, you’ll find a bit of everything on this list!

Map of the best warm places to visit in USA in December

From Hawaii to Florida, there’s so many ideas on this list! Use this map as a visual of the destinations, then check out the photos and tips below on what to do in each location.

By the way, since I’m actively crossing places off my bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some fellow travel writers to help with this list.

Let’s get to it!

Must-see video: best warm December vacation ideas

Warm places to visit in December in USA

Starting this list off with a bang! When all you want in December is warmth, these are the perfect vacation destinations for you!

1. St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 82, low 72

Wishing for warmer temps in December? Well St. Croix might just be the perfect spot for your winter getaway! The largest and least visited of the US Virgin Islands, St. Croix is an tropical oasis while escaping the cold.

Just at the start of the dry season, December is a perfect time to visit St. Croix. It’s a festive time of year with Christmas events and festivals across the island, including the Crucian Christmas Festival .

If you’re looking for the perfect beach in December on St. Croix, then Sandy Point Beach is it! Open on the weekends, it’s a National Wildlife Refuge, and one of the longest beaches in the US Virgin Islands. It’s closed during sea turtle nesting season, typically April through August, so December is the perfect time to visit!

For a true taste of the Caribbean, visit a rum distillery. St. Croix is home to Captain Morgan Rum Distillery and Cruzan Rum Distillery. Or, visit one of the 150+ sugar mill ruins on the island to soak in some history.

Other popular activities are hiking for those turquoise water views, taking a day trip to Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge and visiting Fort Christiansvaern.

There’s so many things to do in St. Croix, you won’t get bored! It’s one of the very best warm places to visit in USA in December, and one you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Monterey, California (one of my favorite warm US destinations in December)

Average temp:  high 61, low 45

One of the ‘coolest’ warm places to visit in December in USA is Monterey, California. Known for it’s mild temperatures year-round, it’s a great spot for a winter getaway.

December is especially a great time to visit Monterey because the marine fog has mostly dissipated , versus the summer or early fall when it’s still lingering around. Crowds are fewer and prices are reduced, which is awesome for enjoying the area attractions.

Monterey is home to one of the United States best marine sanctuary, making it one of the best spots in the US for wildlife viewing ! Take a kayak tour of the Monterey Bay or witness seals and sea otters in their native habitats at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

Spend a day – or more experiencing Big Sur and one of the best scenic drives in the US, just south of Monterey. There are so many things to do in Big Sur that you’ll find something you love! Chase waterfalls, relax on beaches or get active on a hiking trail with incredible views of the coast.

Be sure to visit Cannery Row where you’ll find shopping, dining and plenty of entertainment options for all ages. It’s home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the best things to do with kids in Monterey.

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

San Juan is a must on any  Puerto Rico itinerary , no matter when you vacation, but December is a particularly wonderful time to visit. Hurricane season is officially over, and daytime temperatures are in the low 80s, making is a great time to explore and hit area beaches.

The holidays are celebrated with verve all through the month. Old San Juan, the city’s historic district, is decked up in holiday lights and nativity scenes.

Enjoy Puerto Rican eggnog, an alcoholic concoction made with rum, coconut milk, and sweet spices. You’ll also find live music in the streets, and, leading into Christmas, folks singing Christmas carols at night. Very festive!

December is also perfect for sightseeing. Be sure to visit the historic forts of Old San Juan, and walk the colorful alleys to snap photos of the beautiful facades. 

The balmy weather makes December a great time to spend time of the many idyllic beaches in San Juan and just beyond , from the beaches of Isla Verde to Luquillo. For more beach time, plan on a day trip to Culebra Puerto Rico or Icacos Island ! If you’re looking for unique experiences, consider the Bioluminescent Bay, as reviewed in the battle of Culebra vs Vieques .

It’s also a great time to visit El Yunque, the tropical rainforest near San Juan. Hike amidst lush vegetation and waterfalls and take in the views from the observation tower. 

Hotel El Convento is a great place to stay in Old San Juan! It’s housed in a beautiful historic building. 

Recommended by Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

4. Maui, Hawaii

Average temp:  high 80, low 66

If you’re looking for the best winter sun destinations, look no further than Maui. Home to incredible scenery like gorgeous beaches, tropical rainforests with beautiful waterfalls and epic adventures, Maui is an awesome place to visit!

It’s especially great in December because the rainy season hasn’t hit yet and the crowds of summer are gone, making it more affordable and more enjoyable. If you go in the first 2 weeks of December, you’ll avoid the holiday pricing.

Be sure to relax on Maui’s beautiful beaches! For year-round snorkeling fun, Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach is a must. Don’t forget your snorkel gear so you can go when you want! Or, watch the surfers at D.T. Fleming Beach on the North Shore.

If you’re looking for adventure, hike the Waihee Ridge Trail . You’ll get epic views of the valley and coast. Just be sure to wear hiking shoes for this one – the trail can get muddy after it rains.

And if you’re up for a road trip, driving the popular Road to Hana is one of the best road trips USA and an experience you’ll never forget. Be sure to make it to Wai’ānapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach (reservations required).

Side note: if you’re really into unique beaches, a must-see is the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico. So stunning!

Anyway, for a more remote drive, consider the Kahekili Highway. This one-lane road offers stunning views and adventure like hiking, waterfalls and more.

Maui is an ideal destination for the best beaches in December, and one you’ll definitely want to consider!

5. St. George, Utah

Average temp:  high 56, low 31

One of the most unique spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is St. George, Utah. Nestled on the southwest corner of the state, it’s just minutes away from Arizona and Nevada.

A great launching spot for a Utah national parks road trip, St. George is located about an hour west of Zion National Park. You could certainly take a day trip to Zion, but it may have a bit of snow in December.

There’s so many things to do in St. George. The downtown is rich in history, with museums and parks to learn about the region in years – and centuries past. From the dinosaurs to the Paiute natives and then finally settled by Mormons in the 1800’s.

Of course there’s plenty of outdoor activities in St. George – even in December! Snow Canyon State Park is just 15 minutes north of town, and worth the visit. With 20 miles of hiking trails through petrified dunes, lava tubes and of course, stunning overlooks, it’s a hiker’s dream.

For more adventure, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride near the city. Or, rent a sled and sandbar at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a little over an hour south of town.

6. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 74, low 55

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the USA over and over again, Siesta Key is an amazing getaway. Although high’s in the mid 70’s may not seem like great swimming weather, it still means you can enjoy this beachy destination.

You’ll get more of the beach to yourself in December, which is one of the perks of traveling to Siesta Key in winter. Fly a kite or build a sandcastle. Take beach chairs or a lightweight beach towel and just enjoy the sound of the gentle waves hitting the shore.

And when you need a break from the beach (if that’s even a thing😉), you can head into Siesta Key Village where you’ll find the cutest town square . With boutique shops and restaurants, there’s plenty to do here, too. Be sure to try Meaney’s Mini Donuts & Coffee House (the cinnamon ones are the best).

With so many things to do in Siesta Key , there’s truly something for everyone! You’ll love this beach town, as it’s one of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December.

7. Temecula, California

Average temp:  high 67, low 47

If you are ready to escape the cold, snowy weather for somewhere warmer this December, look no further than Temecula, California. Located in Southern California, just an hour’s drive from San Diego, this city has plenty to do – including wine tasting, shopping, and more! 

In December, Temecula’s high temperature is just shy of 70°F, with only 2 days of precipitation, so you can expect warm, sunny days. And there’s no better way to enjoy the beautiful weather than with a visit to Temecula Valley Wine Country!

Temecula is home to 50+ local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms . Some of the best wineries in Temecula include Wilson Creek Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Baily Vineyard & Winery. 

December is a fabulous time to visit Temecula because of the fun holiday events you can attend, like the Temecula Chilled Holiday Market and Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula. Despite the warm weather, you can even ice skate at the Peltzer Ice Skating Rink or Temecula on Ice during the holidays. 

Old Town Temecula is a fantastic location to base your trip if you want to walk around and soak up the sunshine, as it’s one of the best winter sun destinations in the US.

You can eat at some of the best restaurants in Old Town Temecula , like The Goat & Vine or 1909 Temecula, or you can shop at the dozens of quaint boutiques selling unique items, like wine-barrel furniture, olive oils and more. 

Carter Estate Winery and Resort is the perfect place to stay for your warm-weather getaway to Temecula, CA. Located on a gorgeous vineyard, this resort allows you to wake up in the heart of wine country every morning! 

Recommended by Brittany of Travel By Brit

8. South Padre Island, Texas

Average temp:  high 72, low 57

If you’re looking for an amazing warm destination to visit in December in the USA, then South Padre Island is the perfect destination for you. 

After all, temperatures are usually around 72 degrees during the day and then around 57 degrees in the evening throughout the month of December.

Plus, the weather here is usually pretty dry, making it the perfect place to relax, take a walk through the Padre Island National Seashore, and enjoy the single biggest undeveloped barrier island in the world.  Additionally, December is off-season. Therfore, crowds will be minimal and hotel prices will be quite reasonable. 

As a result, you can quietly enjoy some of the best things to do in South Padre Island , like take some time to explore the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse from 1852 . In fact, it’s the only lighthouse on the coast of Texas that is open to visitors and makes for a fun place to visit. 

Then, learn about local wildlife at the Sea Turtle Conservation Center. In fact, this amazing wildlife rescue center helps upwards of 100 turtles per year and is an ideal place to learn all about these fascinating creatures. 

You can also visit the South Padre island Birding Center and admire local populations of Buff-bellied hummingbirds, White Ibis, and Red-winged Blackbirds as you stroll along the picturesque boardwalk here. 

Then, pamper yourself at the Sapphire Spa before spending the night at the swank Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island to create the ultimate getaway. South Padre Island is one of the best warm places to visit in USA in December.

Recommended by Victoria of Texas Travel 365

Warm places to visit in December in USA, continued

Can you believe this list?! Just 25% through it and there’s so many more adventures to have. Let’s keep going!

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 65, low 46

If you’re looking for a place to escape winter’s frigid clutches and have a little fun in December, there is no better place than New Orleans! While the weather in New Orleans can be oppressive at certain times of the year, December is ideal as it averages in the 60s – 70s which is perfect for sightseeing!

You might think The Big Easy is only a party town during Mardi Gras – wrong! December ushers in plenty of its own one-of-a-kind holiday fun.

The beginning of December kicks off with the Krewe of Jingle – a downtown holiday parade with special appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Clause. New Orleans knows how to host a parade, so this is one you should make sure you don’t miss!

In the middle of December, head to historic Lafayette Square to enjoy the LUNA Fête festival . Over a long weekend, the city celebrates with awe-inspiring light shows; it generally brings in over 100,000 attendees!

In addition to the holiday fun, another great way to get to know the city is on a walking tour. This is an especially great activity if this is your  first time visiting New Orleans  — there are a range of tour options, from learning about Voodoo to exploring the chic Garden District.

New Orleans is a fun city and one of the best warm places to visit in December. And, if you have a bit more time in the area, be sure to check out the best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana .

Recommended by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

10. Oahu, Hawaii (a destination full of the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 82, low 67

When you think of a warm December getaway, Oahu may be one of the first destinations to come to mind. And with its stunning white sand beaches, epic mountains, and abundant wildlife, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular destinations, come December. 

Thanks to its location close to the equator, Oahu enjoys temperatures in the low 80s in December, which is warm enough to break out the tank tops, sun dresses and even a long travel skirt .

In December the island may experience a rain shower or two. These showers usually only last for a few hours and should not be too much of a hindrance on your outdoor adventures. 

Many visitors primarily focus their explorations of the island to Honolulu, but there’s so much else to see and do here. For example, one of the best things to do in Oahu in December is to watch the professional surfers take on the big waves of the North Shore . Check out the Banzai Pipeline or Waimea Bay Beach Park, which can see waves up to 25 feet in height! 

While snorkeling along the North Shore is probably not advisable in December, given the aforementioned monster waves, you can still check out some of the best snorkeling in Oahu by heading to Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, just 10 minutes east of Honolulu .

Here, the waters stay calm year round, where you can swim with and observe the 400 species of fish, turtles and other marine life. Bring your own snorkel gear to hit the water when and where you want while on Oahu!

For a conveniently located home base during your stay, consider The Modern Honolulu , just steps away from Waikiki Beach, both a family-friendly and adults only pool and an excellent onsite restaurant. 

Oahu is one of the best winter sun destinations in the US, and one you won’t want to miss!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

11. Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Average temp:  high 75, low 55

The happiest place on Earth, aka Disney World, is an easy pick for any families out there looking for iconic warm places to visit in December in USA. 

After all, Disney World comes alive at this time of year with festive holiday decor and fun seasonal events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. 

Plus, the weather at  Disney in December  is super comfortable throughout the month since the average high is 74 F and the average daily low is 56 F. 

However, to avoid insane crowds, try to time your visit for the first week of December. This is when kids are still in the school and when the park is less crowded. 

You should also try and buy Park Hoppers so that you can avoid more crowded parks on an as needed basis. 

Additionally, try and visit Magic Kingdom on Party Days and avoid parks with extra Magic Hours to get the most out of your visit. 

Then, make time to enjoy seasonal activities like Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party (an add-on experiences for extra fees), Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace or Plaza Garden Viewing (another add-on event), A Frozen Holiday Wish (happens nightly all month long) and more. 

You can also attend the International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot before spending the night at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.  It’s probably the best Deluxe resort in Disneyworld and features an island theme that is accentuated by leis that are presented to you as you walk in the door.

Looking for more fun? Check out the best Hollywood Studios rides in the park!

Recommended by Victoria of Disney Trippers

12. Augusta, Georgia

Average temp:  high 60, low 41

One of the most underrated spots on this list of warm places to visit in USA in December is Augusta, Georgia . A southern city full of charm, Augusta is known for outdoor recreation, historical sites and hist vibrant restaurant scene.

Tour downtown finding fun murals, shopping and dining. A foodie’s delight, Augusta is known for outdoor patios, which you’ll find especially inviting in the warm sun during mid-day. Bring layers for the evenings as it gets chilly!

One of Augusta’s top attractions is the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Walk the trails and soak in the peaceful nature all around you. Or, get a little more active on the 32 miles of biking trails through the Forks Area Trail System.

And you can’t visit Augusta without a stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk . It’s a fun, brick trail along the Savannah River! If traveling with kids, they’ll love the playground on the Riverwalk.

During December, the city has holiday festivals and markets. Enjoy historic holiday tours where you can visit homes from the 1800’s, including the childhood home of President Woodrow.

13. San Diego, California (perfect for this list of warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 49

San Diego is an incredible place to visit during December. With incredible weather and tons of fabulous attractions, you can’t go wrong with visiting this Southern California City! 

You can expect temperatures around the high 60’s during the day and in the 40’s at night. Some of the best things to add to your San Diego itinerary in December include wandering through the famous Balboa Park.

Balboa Park is comprised of 1,200 acres. You can explore beautiful gardens and dozens of museums including The San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Museum of Us, San Diego Natural History Museum and more! Additionally, the famous San Diego Zoo is also located in Balboa Park.

The Old Town San Diego Historic State Park is another must-visit. Here you can indulge in amazing food while experiencing San Diego’s Spanish roots and history.

A special experience in San Diego during December is whale watching . Around 20,000 Grey Whales start migrating in mid-December. Seals also start giving birth around mid-December at the La Jolla Caves. You will likely also be able to see the Sea Lions in La Jolla too!

If you are in search of some additional beach time, don’t forget to check out Coronado Island. Walk along the beach, enjoy the many eateries, and visit the famous Hotel Del Coronado .

Recommended by Sam of Find Love and Travel

14. Sedona, Arizona

verage temp:  high 60, low 34

Sedona is the perfect sunny escape in December! Excellent for various travel styles, there’s hiking and outdoor adventures, as well as low-key things to do in town. With mild temperatures and minimal crowds, December is a great time to visit Sedona.

Take the Sedona Trolley around town to get acquainted without the worry of driving or traffic. Visit the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for just that – shopping.

Go hiking or horseback riding at Cathedral Rock or Oak Creek Canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love jumping around the unique landscape at Slide Rock State Park .

Perhaps the most popular hiking trail in the area is Devil’s Bridge Trail . At 3.9 miles and rated as moderate, this trail is perfect for an afternoon hike in December! Bring your grippy hiking shoes for this one, as the rock stairs leading up to the bridge can get pretty slick.

For the best views of the incredible landscape in Sedona, head up to Airport Mesa. There’s a parking lot at the overlook so it doesn’t require much hiking at all. It’s also a great spot for stargazing!

15. Culebra, Puerto Rico (perfect for visiting the best beaches in December)

Average temp:  high 85, low 74

Quite possibly the warmest place in the US in December, Culebra Puerto Rico is an amazing destination you’ll love. Puerto Rico was previously mentioned above, but Culebra is so spectacular it deserves it’s own spot.

Culebra Puerto Rico is located just 18 miles off the eastern side of Mainland Puerto Rico . Getting to Culebra requires a ferry ride or small plane, but it’s so worth it!

Home to one of the most incredible beaches in the Caribbean, Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is one of the best beaches you’ll ever see, and a phenomenal place to visit for the best beaches in December.

This crescent-shaped beach sits along rolling hills and its undeveloped land makes it seem from a fairytale. With plenty of parking and amenities, you’ll want to spend a day – or more – at Flamenco Beach.

Spend some time in with the sea turtles while snorkeling at Tamarindo Beach. Or, for some solitude, visit the lesser-known Zoni Beach. And when you’re hungry, be sure to head downtown to grab a bite.

For couples traveling, consider the cozy cottages with phenomenal views – Aleli Cottages . For more space, try the Oceania Villas .

You’ll fall in love with Culebra. It’s definitely one of the best on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA!

16. Florida Keys

Average temp:  high 75, low 70

The snow is falling, the temperatures keep dropping and you’re ready to escape to a tropical paradise. One of the best warm places to visit in December is the Florida Keys!

Stretching approximately 120 miles from Key Largo to the southernmost point in the continental USA (Key West), the Florida Keys are the perfect getaway if you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. With average December temperatures in the high 70’s, you’ll never want to leave! 

Your best and most affordable option would be to fly into Miami and rent a car to make the Miami to Key West road trip . From here, you can take your time exploring each island and all they have to offer. You’ll want to spend at least one night in Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. 

The list of things to do in the Florida Keys is never-ending. Depending on how much time you have, you will have to decide between scuba diving in John Pennekamp State Park, deep sea fishing at Robbie’s, parasailing over the sparkling blue water or simply relaxing on the beach. 

After your road trip of adventures, you’ll definitely want to stay in Key West at Tiki Suites.  There are 2 suites located in the middle of the ocean! You’ll have nothing but the ocean surrounding you as you relax and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

Best winter sun destinations

Okay – let’s catch a breath here. We’re 1/2 way done. A few of my personal favorites are coming up next!

More winter sunshine ahead…

17. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Average temp:  high 84, low 76

The US Virgin Islands are a great place to visit in December for a number of reasons, especially St. Thomas . First, the weather is absolutely beautiful during this time of year.

The average high temperature is about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is only about 75 degrees. This makes it the perfect time of year to enjoy all that the islands have to offer, including the beaches, without having to deal with crowds of people.

The beaches on St. Thomas are calm and perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of water sports activities to keep everyone entertained. Magen’s Bay is the most popular beach on the island and is great for families.

Coki Beach and Sapphire Beach are also a lot of fun! Sapphire Beach, especially is a great place to base during your stay because Sapphire Beach Resort offers discounts on snorkeling equipment rental to its guests. There are also several pools and a restaurant there, in case you don’t feel like going elsewhere to eat.

December is also a great time to visit St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands because it’s one of the quieter times of the year.

While the islands do see a significant number of tourists during the winter months, it’s nothing compared to the summer crowds. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy all that the US Virgin Islands have to offer without having to worry about fighting for space on the beach or in restaurants.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

18. Santa Barbara, California

Average temp:  high 65, low 45

Known for its incredible Spanish architecture, wineries, expansive beaches and moderate temperatures, Santa Barbara is always a good idea. Deserving on this list of warm places to visit in December in USA, Santa Barbara offers sunshine to those wishing to escape grey skies or snow elsewhere.

Dive into culture, history and art in Santa Barbara. See a performance at the Lobero Theater, visit the Old Mission Santa Barbara, get lost in the beauty of Santa Barbara Museum of Art or shop and dine on State Street.

Of course, you’ll want to visit the beach while you’re at the California Coast! Santa Barbara is one of the best stops on a Pacific Coast Highway vacation from San Francisco to San Diego road trip . The area’s best beaches along the way are East Beach, Hendry’s Beach and Goleta Beach Park.

December is a fabulous time to visit Santa Barbara, as the city is full of events and festivities . Watch the boat parade through the harbor at Stearns Wharf. Shop for someone special at the city’s annual Folk and Tribal Arts Marketplace.

And don’t forget about New Year’s Eve in Santa Barbara! For a night to remember, try a champagne cruise, catch a drag show, do a bar crawl or so much more. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of the year!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

19. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best warm places to visit in December in USA)

Average temp:  high 82, low 65

You gotta go to Kauai! It’s not only one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA, it’s also an incredible destination for adventure and relaxation! Known as ‘the garden isle’ for its lush vegetation and epic waterfalls, it has stunning coastlines unlike any other spot on this list – or in the world.

You’ll want to see the Waimea Canyon, AKA the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Explore it’s epic views from the inside by hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail . Right down the road is the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park, to see the stunning NaPali Coast.

For sunshine in December, you’ll want to stay in the Poipu area to get the least amount of rain . Popular for awesome beaches like Poipu Beach or Shipwreck Beach, the waves can be the smallest in the winter, which is perfect for a warm getaway to the beach.

Kauai is home to some amazing food too. On the North Shore, try Kalypso Island Bar & Grill in Hanalei. You’ve gotta try the acai bowls at Java Kai in Kapaa, or the famous Hula Pie at Keoki’s Paradise in Koloa. Some of the best places to eat in Kauai won’t break the bank, either, like Da Crack Mexican Grinds.

Early December is a fabulous time to visit Kauai as it’s the shoulder season. The pricing is lower than late December over the holiday, and the crowds are much fewer, meaning you’ll have less waiting at restaurants and attractions.

20. Bisbee, Arizona

The quaint, little town of Bisbee, AZ is attracting winter travelers from all over the world due to its stunning beauty and quirky vibe.

Why visit Bisbee in December? It is truly the best month, boasting highs in the mid-50s and lows in the low-30s. Being an inherently dry climate, you can expect little to no precipitation this time of year. Instead, you’ll find clear skies, colorful sunsets and more stars than you can imagine. 

In visiting Bisbee you can expect a true getaway. The town is small, with just over 5,000 residents. However, what it lacks in population, it makes up for in charm.

A haven for artists and other creative types, the town is full of murals, quirky antique shops, charming cafes and relaxed breweries. Make sure to spend some time shopping in downtown, visiting the nearby ghost town of Lowell and viewing the Lavender Pit, which is an open copper mine located just outside of town.

If you’re lucky enough to spend some time  road tripping in the area , you should also check out Saguaro National Park and Chiricahua National Monument, which are both less than 2 hours away. 

You can’t go wrong with booking a boutique hotel in the main part of town. If you are looking to get close to the action, try the  Copper Queen Hotel . If you would like something a little bit quieter, the  School House Inn Bed & Breakfast  may be more your speed.

Either way, you are sure to enjoy a picturesque and relaxing stay in the heart of the American Southwest, one of the best warm places to visit in December!

Recommended by Michele of Slow Traveling Cat

21. Anna Maria Island, Florida (another one of my favorites for warm places to visit in USA in December)

It’s small-town charm and crisp, white beaches will draw you in. Anna Maria Island is definitely one of the most fabulous (and underrated) warm places to visit in USA in December!

Located just an hour west of Sarasota, this island is the picturesque Florida vacation destination. Lacking chain hotels or restaurants, you’ll find boutique shops, fun places to eat and awesome beaches.

Check out the Anna Maria Pier for unique views of the island and local waters. If you’re lucky, one of the local fevers (groups) of sting rays will be lurking in the waters below! Hunt for seashells at Coquina Beach, hang out the beach at Bean Point or find some adrenaline in a parasailing adventure.

Celebrate the holidays in Anna Maria Island by visiting the cute Bridge Street, covered in twinkling lights . Or catch one of the island’s boat parades, where locals and tour companies decorate their boats with holiday lights and show them off during a water parade.

December is a special time on Anna Maria Island, and with so many unique things to do on Anna Maria Island , you won’t get bored!

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

When planning a summer vacation, Myrtle Beach might come to mind, but have you ever considered retreating to beautiful South Carolina in December? This southern beach town is the perfect retreat if you’re trying to escape the cold and enjoy some warmer weather.

In December, Myrtle Beach offers weather in the 60s with mostly sunny days. Visiting this month means very little crowds, cheaper room rates at places like the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes .

One of the  locals’ favorite things to do in Myrtle Beach  is to visit Brookgreen Gardens, located just 30 minutes outside of downtown. The gardens are an amazing destination year round, but from the end of November to the beginning of January, they hold the Nights of a Thousand Candles. The whole property is lit with over a million lights and almost 3,000 hand-lit candles. You can listen to holiday music, admire the lights and drink some hot apple cider, getting in the holiday spirit.

Spend another evening at one of Myrtle Beach’s famous theaters for a holiday themed show! Pirates Voyage, The Alabama Theater and The Carolina Opry all hold special holiday themed shows during December and are so much fun for all ages.

The daytimes will be warm enough to walk on the beach, eat fresh seafood outside on the boardwalk and ride the massive Ferris Wheel. Try the Sea Captain’s House or River City Cafe for some of the best food with ocean views!

Recommended by Tori of Tori Pines Travels

23. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Average temp:  high 61, low 37

Joshua Tree is an incredible place to visit in December for warm weather and sunshine! The desert landscape means that unlike most national parks in the US, summers are too hot for outdoor adventures. 

December brings perfect weather for hiking in Joshua Tree , as daytime temperatures are comfortable , usually in the high 50s or low 60s. It does get chilly at night, so be prepared with some layers – especially if you’re camping, or if you plan to be out in the mornings or evenings!

December is also less crowded than spring or fall, when the park is most popular – but, starting your day early or staying in the park close to sunset will be the best way to avoid crowds. Some of the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park include the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Ryan Mountain and the Lost Palms Oasis Trail.

Some other great things to do in the park include stargazing, off-roading and wildlife viewing. You can see lizards, snakes, tortoises, birds, and if you’re lucky, maybe some big horn sheep, foxes and bobcats!

When you’re in Joshua Tree, you can camp in the park, check out some of the quirky vacation rentals nearby, or stay at the Joshua Tree Inn.

Recommended by Anna of Anna Tee

24. San Antonio, Texas

Average temp:  high 64, low 40

If you’re looking for the best warm places to visit in December, then San Antonio, Texas should be on your radar! With sunshine and temperatures in the 60’s during the day, you’ll be exploring this fun city in warm weather, a nice escape from the cold.

The San Antonio River Walk is the shining star of this destination, but it offers visitors so much more!

Explore The Alamo – the location of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution in 1863 (timed ticket entry required). For more history and art, visit the San Antonio Museum of Art, Brisco Western Art Museum or the McNay Art Museum.

If you’re looking for a family getaway during December, you’ll want to hit up Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Rides for kids and adults of all ages, it’s a thrilling way to enjoy your time in San Antonio.

And of course, you can’t go to San Antonio without experiencing the River Walk. There’s so much to do and see in the area. From street vendors and shops to restaurants and cool architecture, you can spend a whole day (or more) exploring the area.

A warm getaway, San Antonio just might be the perfect December getaway!

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to plan your trip to San Antonio to include the best Texas resorts for families .

More warm places to visit in USA in December

From the best beaches in December to adventurous destinations off the beaten path, let’s round out this list with more incredible destinations!

25. Page, Arizona

Average temp:  high 45, low 30

If you’re looking to spend time in the American southwest, Page, Arizona is one of the best places to visit. It’s home to some of the most popular places to visit in Arizona including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. December is a great time to visit because the weather is beautiful. 

In the month of December, the days are warmer and the night cold so it’s a good idea to make sure you bring layers. There is little to no rain here during the month of December. These are great temperatures for hiking and going on outdoor adventures in the area. 

There are lots of great  places to stay in Page . If you’re looking for a unique experience, try glamping with Under Canvas . For a traditional hotel stay, consider Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or the Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell .

One of the best things to do in Page is tour Antelope Canyon . This beautiful slot canyon is one of the most famous in the country, and it’s an amazing experience to walk through. It’s gorgeous!

December is a popular time to tour Antelope Canyon, so you’ll want to make your reservations well in advance. After your tour of Antelope Canyon, be sure to leave some time to walk out to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook.

There are lots of other fun destinations in this area, including Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Sedona. Page, AZ is a great destination to include if you’re going on a road trip through this area, and one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

26. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Average temp:  high 70, low 60

Clearwater Beach is one of the best winter sun destinations! Located just 25 miles west of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it’s one of the most popular beaches in the country.

Temperatures consistently stay between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, but the crowds are significantly less during this time of year. This makes it the perfect time to be able to relax in comfort without having to fight for a free spot on the sand or get overheated by the scorching summer sun. 

Unlike the majority of beaches on mainland USA, Clearwater Beach has powder white sand and turquoise blue water. It’s absolutely beautiful, and the sunsets on this beach are even prettier!

There’s even an entire nightly festival that was created just to celebrate the sunsets! It’s called the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival, and it starts 2 hours before sunset every evening. When deciding  where to stay in Clearwater Beach , a hotel right by the pier is your best pick to keep you close to the action. Opal Sands is a top-rated choice!

Boat tours are another popular activity during December. There are dolphin-spotting cruises and even pirate cruises for kids.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium also celebrates the holiday season. W hen you visit during December, you can see Christmas lights, festive habitats and even tank divers dressed up as Santa and his helpers.

Definitely consider Clearwater Beach for your next warm weather vacation in the US in December!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

27. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 60, low 27

You know what’s awesome? Las Vegas in winter, as opposed to summertime. 🤣 Las Vegas deserves a spot on this list because of its entertainment and food scene. Not to mention the outdoor adventures that are perfect during December!

Perfect for a long weekend away in December, Las Vegas is home to countless entertainment opportunities. Get concert or show tickets and you’ll be sure to see top-notch performances!

Of course there’s gambling and clubs, but also plenty of things to do that don’t include being on The Strip your entire trip. For some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights, check out Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . A timed entry reservation is required in December. Bring your hiking shoes and hit the trails!

Or enjoy one of the many day trips from Las Vegas. Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam are cool to see in person. And if you’re really up for some cool sights, be sure to do a Las Vegas to Zion National Park day trip for incredible canyon views!

Las Vegas is an excellent destination for December, and also one of the top warm winter vacations in the US !

28. Gulf Shores, Alabama (must-see for warm places to visit in USA in December)

Average temp:  high 66, low 47

Okay, if you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway to a warm winter sun destination, then Gulf Shores, Alabama is for you! Offering mild temperatures year-round and some of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast , you’ll fall in love with Gulf Shores and its sister city, Orange Beach.

One of the most fun things to do in December in Gulf Shores is a day at The Track. With go karts, mini golf, roller coaster and kiddie rides and an arcade, you could literally get lost here!

Head over to The Wharf at Orange Beach for some serious entertainment and dining. Take a Ferris wheel ride, enjoy some laser tag, grab ice cream or enjoy some water-front dining.

In December, The Wharf hosts a variety of winter and holiday festivities including an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides under twinkling lights and shopping events.

Don’t forget to enjoy some activities on the Gulf! Go for a dolphin cruise, build a sand castle, rent jet skis or go sand crab hunting at Gulf State Park .

29. Big Island, Hawaii (one of the best winter sun destinations)

One of the best warm US destinations in December is the Big Island of Hawaii. People can escape the chilly weather on the Mainland and enjoy a tropical island without needing a passport.

If you’re visiting the Big Island during the holidays, you can enjoy many island-style decorations and community events.

Another fun Big Island activity is stargazing at Mauna Kea. Winter is a great time to do this because the sun sets a bit earlier than in the other seasons, so you won’t have to stay up as late to see the dazzling stars.

December is also whale watching season in Hawaii. It’s best to see them on a whale watching tour .

One of the unique  things to do on the Big Island  is swimming with manta rays. Luckily, these manta ray tours run throughout the winter so you can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The top attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is the only place to see lava in Hawaii. It’s important to check conditions before your trip to see if and where the lava is flowing.

The weather on Kona in December is typically in the low 80s during the day and the upper 60s at night. The Hilo side of the island is usually rainier than the Kona side.

And you should pack warm layers if visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Mauna Kea. There is often snow at the summit of Mauna Kea!

A few great places to stay on the Big Island are the Royal Kona Resort in Kona and the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo.

Recommended by Marcie of Hawaii Travel Spot

30. Catalina Island, California

Average temp:  high 59, low 43

Off the coast of Southern California is Santa Catalina Island, and it definitely deserves a spot on this list of warm places to visit in December in the US. Just an hour ferry ride from Long Beach, getting to Catalina Island is convenient from the LA area.

Visit Catalina Island in early December to enjoy off-season pricing and fewer crowds than later in the month. With temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s, pack layers and enjoy the sunshine on the island!

Find adventure on the water with kayaking, parasailing or a submarine tour. Enjoy the island views by soaring through the air on a zipline or hiking. Try the Avalon Bay Trail with water views, or for more of a challenge, hike the Hermit Gulch Trail.

Downtown Avalon is such a charming harbor town. It’s as cute as ever with brightly colored shops and homes, which reminds me more of Europe than California! Enjoy strolling the Green Pleasure Pier and grabbing some delicious food from a variety of locally-owned restaurants.

31. Phoenix, Arizona

Average temp:  high 68, low 44

One of the best warm US destinations in December is Phoenix! With sunshine and only a few days of rain, it’s perfect weather for indoor and outdoor activities.

Phoenix is a great destination for families, couples and solo travelers of all ages. One of the best places to include on your Phoenix itinerary is Papago Park. Stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see over 50,000 plants!

Have a picnic at the Papago Ponds or hike the short 0.3 miles to Hole in the Rock. Animal lovers will enjoy spending time at the Phoenix Zoo, also located at Papago Park.

The city of Phoenix and neighboring Scottsdale really celebrate the holidays big, too. Enjoy pop-up ice skating events, various festivals and multiple light shows throughout the area, including 2 drive-through animated light shows.

And of course, you can’t come to Phoenix without eating delicious food! For the best Mexican food in town, try Taco Guild or Barrio Cafe. Or enjoy a variety of local restaurants in downtown Phoenix on 7th Street.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or longer vacation, Phoenix is one of the best warm places to visit in December in USA.

32. Destin, Florida (warm places to visit in December in USA – a must-see destination)

Average temp:  high 64, low 48

Destin, Florida is a beautiful place to visit during December. The weather is perfect for spending time on the beaches, and there are plenty of great activities and attractions to enjoy. 

Destin Harbor is especially festive during this time of year, with decorated boats and lights everywhere.  Every year in December, HarborWalk Village has the Destin Boat Parade with fireworks and activities for everyone. 

The city of Destin also has an annual Christmas Parade which covers most of the town. This parade is a must-see for anyone in town in December and features floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself. 

Destin Commons and The Village of Baytowne Wharf both have events going on throughout the month of December. Destin Commons has pictures with Santa and Baytowne Wharf has a holiday concert series in December and even an ice skating rink!  

Other places to visit in December in the Destin area include Crab Island, James Lee Beach and Norriego Point.  If you’re looking for state parks, Henderson Beach State Park is great and offers a beautiful beach, walking trails and camping. Topsail Hill State Park is in nearby Santa Rosa Beach and offers many amenities, as well. 

A great place to stay in Destin is The Palms of Destin , which is right in the heart of the city, near Henderson Beach State Park and The Track (go-karts and mini-golf). 

If you’re looking for a fun, festive and warm place to visit in December, be sure to visit Destin, Florida!

Recommended by Wayne of Always on the Shore

Whew! What a list!

Warm places to visit in USA in December

• St. Croix, USVI
• Monterey, CA
• San Juan, PR
• St. George, UT
• Siesta Key, FL
• Temecula, CA
• South Padre Island, TX
• New Orleans, LA
• Disney World, Orlando, FL
• Augusta, GA
• San Diego, CA
• Culebra, PR
• Florida Keys
• St. Thomas, USVI
• Santa Barbara, CA
• Anna Maria Island, FL
• Myrtle Beach, SC
• Joshua Tree National Park, CA
• San Antonio, TX
• Clearwater Beach, FL
• Las Vegas, NV
• Gulf Shores, AL
• Big Island, HI
• Catalina Island, CA
• Phoenix, AZ

Related content you might like: 30 FUN Warm Winter Vacations in the US (You’ll Absolutely Love) 32 Awe-inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 2nd of December 2023

So many good ideas! I need a getaway this winter and these are all good options. Now it's just about choosing! HA

Sunday 3rd of December 2023

Haha that's the truth! So glad you found some inspiration here :)

A great list! So many warm winter sun places in the USA, you are really lucky! I have been to Hawaii and would go back there in an instant! LAst time I visited was early December and it was wonderful weather

Friday 1st of December 2023

There's quite a few places on your list that my husband and I would enjoy. We are always on the lookout for someplace to escape the winter snow.

Oh yay Jolayne! Sounds like it's time for a getaway😎

Saturday 3rd of September 2022

What a great list! So many beautiful places to access with a US Passport. We've visited 7 of these in the off season and St. Croix is probably our fave so far!

Wednesday 7th of September 2022

Oh awesome Kathryn! St. Croix is certainly dreamy💛

It's always good to find a comprehensive list like this, especially to escape the cold! I'm off to Puerto Rico for the first time next year & this has really whetted my appetite too!

Ah thanks so much for the compliment, Sue. I hope you love Puerto Rico, it's one of my favorites!!

18 Best Places to Visit in the USA in December

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

There are three main types of December travelers: the snowbird , looking to combat goosebumps with a little warmth and sunshine; the ski aficionado , searching for the best slopes; and the holiday lover , searching for a fun, festive spot to enjoy their winter vacation .

With a vast array of climates and terrain, the USA boasts a bevy of exciting places to visit in December. From warm-weather wonders like Florida, Hawaii, and California to snow-laden mountain locales boasting the top ski resorts in the United States to big cities like New York and Las Vegas, you'll have a lot of choices when planning your December vacay.

Plan your travels with our list of the best places to visit in the USA in December.

2. Miami, Florida

3. new york city, new york, 4. salt lake city, utah, 5. u.s. virgin islands, 6. las vegas, nevada, 7. pasadena, california, 8. phoenix, arizona, 9. charleston, south carolina, 10. washington d.c., 11. anchorage, alaska, 12. key west, florida, 13. breckenridge, colorado, 14. new orleans, louisiana, 15. santa fe, new mexico, 16. stowe, vermont, 17. savannah, georgia, 18. st. augustine, florida.

One of the best warm places to visit in the USA in December is Hawaii. Its tropical breezes, ample sunshine, bathwater-warm ocean waves, captivating scenery, and beaches make this an ideal place to relax on island time.

There are several islands from which to choose, and you can vacation on one or plan to visit several in the same trip. The more time you can spare, the more awesome your Hawaiian holiday will be.

The island of Oahu is a great starting point, especially if you stay in the capital of Honolulu . Relax on Waikiki Beach , visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial , and enjoy the urban scene.

The island of Maui has a nice combination of activity and solitude, with golf courses; Wailea Beach; and the dormant volcano Mount Haleakala, where you can witness a spectacular sunrise.

The Big Island has many natural attractions and outdoor activities , like Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Kaunaoa Beach, and Akaka Falls State Park.

The small island of Kaui is the oldest island and the ideal spot for quiet and romantic vacations. It is also known for its many tropical waterfalls, gorgeous hikes, and breathtaking scenery.

Lanai is another small island with remote natural spots that is not as touristy as the other islands.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hawaii

If you are looking for a warm destination with plenty of activity in December, Miami, Florida will fit the bill. Miami has a festive scene in the winter, with holiday performances like The Nutcracker and the magical lights that decorate Zoo Miami .

There are lots of local beach events, so you get the best of both worlds by combining the holiday festivities with warm Florida weather. If you do decide to skip the cold locales by spending your holidays beachside, you will be in good company. It's a popular idea, and seeing the festive holiday lights and decorations in the palm trees will be the perfect change of scenery.

All the best Miami attractions also include options like boating and visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens . Since you do not have to worry about snow in December in Miami, you can explore the local neighborhoods, like Little Havana and the Miami Design District.

Many snowbirds from the north retreat to Florida for the winter, so you will want to plan your lodging far in advance. If you are particular to a favorite section of the Miami beaches , it is best to book lodging where you will spend the majority of your time.

New York City is one of the most festive destinations to visit in December, and some would say it's the best time to visit New York . Bundle up and head out onto the downtown streets to see the holiday store window displays, or catch a performance of the famous Rockettes. Be sure to stop by Rockefeller Square to see the iconic Christmas tree.

There is never a dull moment in New York City , even during the winter. Many people visit New York City in December just to do their holiday gift shopping at the famous department stores and Christmas markets , and to see the many festivals during the holiday season. A must-experience is ice skating at Central Park with the spectacular New York City skyline in the background.

If you end up blowing your budget on presents, you can still catch a Broadway show for a reduced price by hitting the ticket office a few hours before the performance to see if last-minute bargain tickets are available.

Since snow storms are unpredictable in December in the northeast, you should plan a little extra time and flexibility in your itinerary in case of travel delays. Save the extra-cold days for museum visits (there's plenty!) when you can stay warm inside and only go out for short periods at a time.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Not everyone wants to escape the cold in December. In fact, for avid skiers, December is prime time to hit the slopes and ski resorts near Salt Lake City . There are nearly a dozen ski resorts in Utah's Wasatch Mountains, which are just a short drive from Salt Lake City. The ski slopes are equipped to accommodate both novice and advanced skiers.

If you prefer to just look at the snowcapped mountains instead of traversing them, that is an option, too. Salt Lake City has many festive holiday events in December, like horse-drawn carriage rides through Temple Square , which is adorned with holiday lights.

You can also shop in small boutiques for unique gifts. You can experience a vintage Salt Lake City holiday by visiting the This Is The Place Heritage Park, which showcases life and the holidays in the 1800s in Utah during the month of December.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salt Lake City

For a Caribbean vacation in the USA in December, the Virgin Islands are a no-brainer. The islands of Saint Croix , Saint Thomas , and Saint John are United States territories and have tropical natural landscapes perfect for a mid-winter getaway. Beach days and snorkeling will top your to-do list, as well as hitting some of the natural park locations on the islands.

St. Thomas is the most populated of the three islands since it has a cruise ship port, so while there are many tours and activities available, you will be sharing the sandy beaches with many other December tourists.

St. Croix is the largest of the islands and has many cultural attractions. St. John is the smallest and most natural, with great snorkeling, hiking, tropical plants, and untouched beaches.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

Many December travelers in the USA are attracted to the lights and warm temperatures that are guaranteed in Las Vegas . You will find all of the normal flare, with an overload of sights and sounds along the Vegas Strip and a twist of festive December décor. Many of the hotels feature elaborate holiday decorations with an abundance of flowers and lights.

Besides the great shopping in Las Vegas, there is plenty of December entertainment to enjoy. One of the most beautiful spots to visit is the Botanical Cactus Garden at Ethel M Chocolates . The state's largest cactus garden features light displays (sometimes in 3-D) that will put you into the holiday spirit.

With the mild December temperatures in Las Vegas, you can even enjoy spending a winter day poolside at your hotel.

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas

If you are looking for warm weather and a unique experience for your December vacation, you can head to Pasadena, California, where the city is preparing for the famous Tournament of Roses Parade . With Southern California temperatures, it is possible to spend one day at the beach and the next day taking part in one of the biggest events in the city.

Deco Week happens at the end of December as Rose Parade participants make their final tweaks to the elaborate rose-covered floats. You can volunteer to help with those final preparations. If you do plan to head to Pasadena to take part in this annual tradition, book far in advance to hold your spot.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Pasadena, CA

December is a fabulous month to visit Phoenix, especially if you're a fan of the outdoors. Popular winter activities include hiking , golfing, biking, rock climbing, and camping . Shopping is another fun activity, as is museum-hopping.

As for the weather, you'll definitely be pleased. With little rain and highs in the upper-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit, you won't need to pack a parka or run the risk of sweating through your wrinkle-free travel shirt. The extra room in your suitcase means you'll have plenty of space for the finds you'll grab at holiday markets.

While in town, be sure to visit the Desert Botanical Garden , skate on the ice rink at CityScape , and tour the Heard Museum . Glendale Glitters is a fun, festival-type event in nearby Glendale, featuring thousands of holiday lights, music, food, and other activities on the weekends throughout December.

• Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Phoenix, AZ
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Phoenix

Charleston in December is a refreshing sight. While cool (highs hover around 60, and lows can drop to 25), this old-world Southern gem is so lovely and charming, it will warm your spirit. And if the weather turns, you can always head indoors, to the South Carolina Aquarium , Charleston Museum , or Old Slave Mart Museum .

Make time to wander around the captivating Historic District . Picturesque homes and churches that were built centuries ago; cobbled alleyways; and gnarled, twisting oak trees make it easy to feel romantic. Feeling extra amorous? Hop in for a ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

Make the most of the lack of humidity with a visit to the Middleton Place Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, or Magnolia Plantation & Gardens . December plays host to an array of lights shows and holiday markets. The Holiday Festival of Lights , for instance, begins mid-November and lasts until January.

Read More: Top Attractions in Charleston, SC

Though the nation's capital is generally snow-covered in December it is one of the best places to visit at the end of the year for a number of reasons: A winter trip to Washington D.C. is ideal for getting cheap rates on hotel rooms and for fewer crowds at attractions in the city , which can be challenging during the busy summer tourist season.

The other reason to go to D.C. in December is that most of the Smithsonian museums are indoors, so it is easy to visit many of them during your visit. Washington D.C. is beautifully decorated in December for the holidays, especially the White House. There are lots of holiday activities around the city, from walking tours to seeing the national Christmas tree.

December in D.C. offers some things that you just can't experience any other time of the year. Plan some time to see the national Christmas tree near the White House, which is illuminated just after Thanksgiving; the Wharf District holiday boat parade, which happens in early December with dozens of festively decorated boats floating along Washington Channel; and the Winternational global market, which has booths hosted by international embassies, with crafts for sale from their respective countries.

Many people head for warmer weather in December, but it is a great month to head north to Alaska. December is in the middle of peak season for viewing the Northern Lights , so it is easy to find a tour to see them. You can also take a scenic ride from Anchorage to Fairbanks on the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train .

Another way to take in Anchorage in December is by taking a dogsledding trip, hitting the slopes, watching for wildlife, or taking a glacier trek. There are a number of museums in Anchorage to visit when you need a break from the cold. Otherwise, put on the layers and experience Anchorage during this magical time of the year.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

The tranquil waters and key lime pie in Key West in December will almost make you forget that it is even wintertime. That is why it is one of the best places to go in December. As you might expect from this warm-weather destination, the holidays are showcased on the water, with the Lighted Boat Parade at the Historic Seapor t and offshore excursions to clear up any winter blues.

You can take a tour of the Victorian mansions in Key West, which are elegantly decorated with wreaths and holiday décor. If you feel like doing nothing but sitting on the beach for your December getaway, you can do that, too. Bear in mind that Key West is a popular winter spot, so you will pay a premium for hotels and airline tickets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

December means ski season in Breckenridge , so it is one of the best places to go for some downhill adventure. While some of the warm-weather destinations will see crowds in December, Breckenridge will, too, but it is the place to be if you are looking for quality winter skiing.

Hotel and resort rates will be at a premium, but you can usually package them with lift tickets for the duration of your stay. When you're not carving through the white powder on the slopes, you can enjoy the festive scene in town, where the small shops along Main Street are decked out for the holidays. Breckenridge gets into the holiday spirit, which is why it is considered one of the best Christmas towns in Colorado .

Though you will have plenty of company in Breckenridge in December, there are nearly 3,000 acres of ski areas, so there is enough space to accommodate the rush of winter travelers.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado

The festive city of New Orleans is a great December vacation destination, where you can enjoy the warmer weather, walk through the city streets and the French Quarter , and leave before the influx of Mardi Gras revelers start to arrive in the following months. December weather is warm, but it is not the stifling heat that you would experience in the summer, so you can enjoy it more comfortably.

There are many holiday festivals and over-the-top light and decorative displays throughout the city to enjoy in December, including illuminated art pieces at Lafayette Square. The Roosevelt Hotel is another must-see, with 50 themed and decorated Christmas trees and thousands of holiday lights decorating the historic hotel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

The southwestern city of Santa Fe is a great getaway in December for those who want to lay low in a small, artsy location. The city is rooted in Native American culture. The historic buildings and small shops are fun to stroll through as you buy local artwork ranging from paintings to jewelry.

Santa Fe is a nice place to escape from the cold and snow and is known for its many health retreats and relaxing spa resorts. If you still want to see the snow, you can head into the mountains for a day of skiing.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Santa Fe

For some December travelers, especially those looking for a romantic vacation in one of the best small towns in Vermont , hunkering down in a cozy bed-and-breakfast or cottage with several feet of snow outside might be appealing. If so, then Stowe, Vermont is where you need to spend a holiday. December is cold in Stowe, but that is part of the charm for a getaway filled with fireplaces and hot chocolate.

You can still spend your days outdoors by layering up and hitting the ski slopes , snowshoeing, or taking a dog-sledding adventure before returning to your cozy accommodations. December in Stowe is marked with traditional holiday parades, celebrations, and tree lightings in the center of town.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

You'll want to pack a sweater when visiting Savannah in December. With highs in the mid-60s to mid-70s, you may want to block the nightly (or daytime) chill. That won't stop you from fully enjoying this Georgian wonderland.

Peppered with historic mansions; luxurious parks; and picturesque, moss-draped trees; this idyllic beauty is even more magical when dressed for the holidays in December. Head to River Street during the first weekend of December for music, treats, and shopping. You'll find handmade stocking stuffers and other creative gifts from these unique vendors.

Savannah's Lighted Christmas Parade is another holiday must-see that takes place during the first weekend of December . It includes a tree lighting ceremony, caroling, dancing, and more on Tybee Island.

When you aren't busy getting festified, visit the area's historic homes, museums, and the large and lush Forsyth Park .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

St. Augustine is a lovely place to visit at all times of the year, although it can get unbearably hot during summer. In December, though, this historic Floridian gem really comes to life. A Sunshine State marvel, St. Augustine lies on the northeast coast and offers visitors archeological masterpieces along with soft, sandy beaches.

One of the best Christmas towns in Florida , this town literally jingles and sparkles during December. The annual Night of Lights festival runs from mid-November through January and features over three million lights swirling their way around town. It's incredibly charming, even if you aren't into holiday festivities.

Hop on the Old Town Trolley, explore Castillo de San Marcos, go fishing in the surf , or lounge on the beach at Anastasia State Park. You'll have fewer crowds to fight, but with temps in the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit, you may not be tempted to play in the water all day.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in St. Augustine, FL

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More Winter Travel Ideas : Many of the best places to visit in December are also going to be the most expensive. If you are on a budget, you can consider some of the cheap places to travel in December or specifically cheap Christmas holiday destinations . If warm weather is calling you, then you might consider the beaches in California or the Caribbean as options.

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The The Best Places to Visit in December for Couples: Weather & Travel Guide

• Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel and personal finance.
• She has reported and written for publications like Fodors, Conde Nast Traveler and the Wall Street Journal.
• Travel is what feeds her adventurous spirit.

December is a special time of year, and it can also be one of the best months to travel. There are all the festivities of the holiday season, plus a bit of sentimentality as the end of another year approaches. A December vacation is a welcome reprieve, especially for couples who want to reflect back on the year and partake in merriment.

The best places to visit in December are scattered across the globe, whether you're looking for a ski resort, the sunny Caribbean, an all-inclusive in Hawaii, a well-being resort (hello, 2024 travel trend ), or towns that go over the top with holiday festivities. Choosing the best cities or countries to visit in December for your anniversary trip , honeymoon or romantic getaway is a task that will put a smile on your face and get you through a routine day at the office. Here's fodder for your fantasy.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland in December, and the spirit of the holidays is vibrant with the city's infamous Christmas markets. If you're a couple not bothered by a bit of chill in the air, this European escape is for you.

Things to Do: Shop 'til you drop at the Christmas markets with stalls full of art, crafts and local goodies like lebkuchen (similar to gingerbread cookies). You will surely find yourselves in one of the many cafes and coffee houses warming up with a melange , a Viennese coffee that will remind you of a cappuccino. Come evening, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral for classical music at an Advent concert. Another night, attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera House . Visit the city's many museums, like the Albertina or Belvedere . Shake off any stress by indulging in Vienna's 2,000-year-old bathing culture and hitting one of the spas.

Places to Stay: Almanac Palais Vienna , Hotel Beethoven Wien , The Guesthouse Vienna and Alma Boutique Hotel .

Western Pennsylvania

Western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, is a holiday playland. The list of festivities is long and all-but-guarantees a good time. For those who prefer the countryside, Nemacolin is its own standalone destination: with 2,200 acres of resort grounds to take in, couples will find everything from ice skating to gingerbread house competitions (really though)… all against the ornate decorations and architecture that make this place memorable around the holidays. Plus, Pittsburgh is a 90-minute drive away. When you think of where to travel in December, put this entire region on the map.

Things to Do: Downtown in Market Square of Pittsburgh, you'll find the Peoples Gas Holiday Market that might make you think you're in Europe. You can also skate at the downtown ice rink. GLOWLAND , in the city's Oakland neighborhood, boasts interactive installations, music, art and more. The Walk the Burgh holiday lights tour will give you insight on the city's history and architecture, with a chance to peep all of the area's lights and decorations. The Pittsburgh Botanic Dazzling Nights is 65 acres of lights, plus seasonal beverages and bites. If you don't want to get out of the car, the Zoo Lights Drive-Thru will let you see the animals and lights from your car. Beyond holiday happenings, take in a show in the Cultural District and finish the day with a romantic dinner at one of many top restaurants in town.

Places to Stay: The Priory Hotel , Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh , Omni William Penn Hotel , The Grand Lodge at Nemacolin Resort and The Mansions on Fifth Hotel .

Basseterre, St. Kitts

You might be craving sand, sea and sun for your romantic getaway. If so, one of the best countries to visit in December is St. Kitts, with its steamy and perfect honeymoon weather . This tiny Caribbean island comes alive in December when it celebrates its national Carnival, also called Sugar Mas, as well as the holidays. Expect music, dance, folklore, food, beach parties and more.

Things to Do: For adventure, there's hiking through rainforest and volcanoes; diving; and ATVs. Care for something more serene? Soak up the sun on the beach or take a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway for a three-hour tour that makes a 30-mile circle around the island—18 miles on train and 12 miles on sightseeing buses.

Places to Stay: Belle Mont Farm , Royal St. Kitts , Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour and Marriott's St. Kitts Beach Club .

Pacific City, Oregon

December is a magical time to visit the Oregon Coast. Pacific City is where forested cliffs and tall dunes meet the Pacific Ocean. You'll see whales and exceptionally high tides showcasing the power of the Pacific Ocean. The natural beauty sets the stage for romance, and the chilly weather is a perfect excuse to cuddle around a beach bonfire.

Things to Do: Whale watching is a must. If you're adventurous, December ushers in the arrival of King Tides, a natural phenomenon that occurs just a few times a year with extreme high tides and crashing waves. You'll always remember taking a guided King Tides hike where you climb to the top of the Great Dune at Cape Kiwanda. Horseback ride on the beach. Explore the boutiques and eateries downtown. Not only can you quench your thirst at the Pelican Brewery , but the ocean views are also stunning. Places to Stay: Headlands Coastal Lodge and Spa , Hart's Camp , Inn at Cape Kiwanda and Surf and Sand Inn .

London, England

London knocks itself out of the park during the holidays. Expect holiday lights everywhere . The holiday spirit is infectious, and in the city, you'll find famous Christmas markets and the must-see 60-foot Covent Garden Christmas tree.

Things to Do: Shop the Christmas markets and enjoy all the holiday lights. Be sure to hit Oxford, Regent and Carnaby Streets for their legendary holiday light displays. Catch a show in the theater district, go ice skating and find out the dates for Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. You can't be in London and not have a spot of tea—an afternoon tea experience is not to be missed.

Places to Stay: Canopy by Hilton London City , The Montcalm Royal London House , Park Grand London Hyde Park and The Resident Covent Garden .

Hamilton, Bermuda

The thought of pink sand beaches probably sounds good as you're thinking of where to go in December, especially if your hometown is likely to be covered in snow. Plan to go early in the month of December, as that's when you can catch the Bermuda Christmas Boat Parade through Hamilton Harbour. Boats are decked out with lights and holiday characters will stream by, topped off with grand finale fireworks. It's tradition for some on Christmas Day to go to Elbow Beach to watch the sunrise.

Things to Do: Find out when the MarketPlace Christmas Parade is, as it's something you won't want to miss. Another December event to look out for is the City Art Fest featuring gallery tours, workshops, music and poetry. Beyond the holiday festivities, enjoy cliff jumping, diving, snorkeling and Blue Hole Park for a swim.

Places to Stay: The Loren at Pink Beach , Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa , Rosewood Bermuda and The St. Regis Bermuda Resort .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Nobody in the Caribbean (maybe, besides, Anguilla) does the holiday season like Puerto Rico. Festivities start in November and continue into the middle of January. From December 15 through 24, churches hold masses with aguinaldos —a folk genre of Christmas music—at dawn. The parranda (carolers) travel around neighborhoods singing Afro-Indigenous Christmas aguinaldos.

Things to Do: In addition to the holiday happenings, enjoy a bioluminescence bay tour, and visit sites like Castillo San Cristobal, and the San Juan Cathedral. Do not miss Old San Juan, with its cobblestone streets, cafes and shops.

Places to Stay: San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino , Dreamcatcher by DW , La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort and Caribe Hilton .

Hope Town, The Bahamas

Considering a visit to the Bahamas in December? Think beyond the much-traveled Nassau and Freeport to under-the-radar locales like Hope Town, which has beautiful beaches, tons of sunshine and a slower pace.

Things to Do: Rent a bike or golf cart to tool around town. Snorkel, dive, fish, paddleboard or kayak. Climb to the top of the Hope Town Lighthouse, and you'll be rewarded with epic views. Some other hot spots include Cap 'n Jacks , the Cantina at The Island Retreat and Firefly Bar and Grill .

Places to Stay: The Island Retreat , Abaco Inn , Hope Town Inn Marina and The Clifford Sawyer House .

Madeira, Portugal

The Madeira archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean about 280 miles from the Canary Islands and 310 miles from the Moroccan coast. Madeira is lovely any time of year, but the holidays are something special, with Madeira spending millions on its Christmas lights and decorations. Plus, the area has a legendary New Year's Eve fireworks celebration.

Things to Do: For the thrill-seeking couple, there's canyoning, paragliding and hiking. Take in the view at Cabo Girão, which at over 1,900 feet tall is the highest sea cliff in Europe. Venture out on the skywalk's suspended glass floor for views of the Atlantic that are beyond spectacular. Visit Câmara de Lobos and consider a tour of Rabaçal, a three-hour walk exploring an evergreen forest, valleys, waterfalls and natural springs. Ride the cable car to reach the Monte Palace Tropical Garden .

Places to Stay: Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel , The Cliff Bay , Porto Mare Hotel and Quinta Jardins do Lago .

Sedona, Arizona

The end of the year is a good time to visit Sedona—it's when fewer tourists are around, so you're likely to score discounts on hotels with less people in town. That means you also stand a better chance of getting a reservation at that restaurant you absolutely must dine at ( Mariposa , anyone?).

Things to Do: Hike those gorgeous red rocks. The trails will be less crowded in December. If you're not game for action by foot, rent a jeep and drive the off-road trails. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad train. Relax and pamper yourselves in one of Sedona's much beloved spas.

Places to Stay: The Wilde Resort and Spa , Enchantment Resort , Sky Ranch Lodge and Arabella Hotel Sedona .

Big Sky, Montana

For the outdoorsy couple who loves winter fun, Big Sky might be the best place to travel in December. Skiers will think they've died and gone to heaven with the abundance of trails. This place is for foodies too–hint, if you need bach party inspiration . You'll get everything from a gourmet hot dog stand, sushi and street tacos to barbecue and a slope-side dinner in a yurt , accessed by snowcat.

Things to Do: While skiing is the big attraction, the action doesn't stop there. Go for a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride, or go dog sledding or ice skating. Take a snowmobile tour of Yellowstone National Park .

Places to Stay: Big Sky Resort , Lone Mountain Ranch , Residence Inn Big Sky/The Wilson Hotel and The Lodge at Big Sky .

Grapevine, Texas

You know they do everything bigger in Texas, and that goes for the holidays, too—especially in Grapevine, which is nicknamed the Christmas Capital of Texas. Between November and December, there are 1,400 holiday events, including markets, parades and the Christmas Wine Train.

Things to Do: Browse Grapevine's historic Main Street District with its boutiques, restaurants, winery tasting rooms and art galleries. Catch a show at the Palace Arts Center. Take a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad . Hike or bike the nine miles of wilderness trails at Lake Grapevine.

Places to Stay: Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center , Hotel Vin , Hilton Garden Inn Grapevine at Silverlake Crossings and Hyatt Place/Grapevine .

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

If you want to celebrate the holidays like a local in the Caribbean island of St. Vincent, you'll need to forget about sleep—the Nine Mornings Festival is for those who like to party. Nine mornings before Christmas, folks wake up at 4 a.m. to enjoy concerts, cultural performances and games. The final morning of the festival ends with a steel band "jump up" (party).

Things to Do: After you've recovered from the early morning festivities, visit one of the black sand beaches. St. Vincent is home to an active volcano, waterfalls, hiking trails and fishing villages. Explore the historic capital city of Kingstown, with its cobblestone streets and majestic churches. Spend a couple of days in nearby Bequia basking in the sun on the beautiful beaches.

Places to Stay: Sandals St. Vincent , Bequia Beach Hotel , Jenny's Place and Bequia Plantation Hotel .

Port Antonio, Jamaica

For a slightly quieter holiday season in Jamaica, go to Port Antonio, as you won't find the crowds of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Port Antonio is lush, awash in greenery, jungle and beautiful beaches. This city is ideal for the couple seeking scenery and serenity.

Things to Do: Take your pick of beaches, whether it's Frenchman's Cove , Winnifred Beach or San San Beach. Each has a different vibe, so you might want to go to all three if you have time. Raft on the Rio Grande. Browse the Portland Art Gallery and check out the Folly Lighthouse and Folly Ruins, the remains of an early 1900s mansion.

Places to Stay: Geejam Hotel , Kanopi House , The Trident Hotel and Goblin Hill Villas at San San .

Mallorca, Spain

If you've already done Barcelona and Madrid, December is a good time to go beyond familiar locales in Spain. Explore the Spanish island of Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic islands. The city of Palma is romantic with its 18th century homes, cathedrals and castles… and even dreamier with holiday decor and sans summertime crowds.

Things to Do: Palma's Old Town has landmarks like La Seu, a sandstone cathedral that took nearly 400 years to build (it's one of Europe's tallest Gothic structures, noted for its massive rose windows). The Golden Mile is the spot for shopping and eating. You'll believe in fairytales with a visit to Bellver Castle from the 14th century—it's about a 10-minute drive west of Palma, located atop a pine-forested hill with awesome views of the Bay of Palma and the Tramuntana Mountains. Mercat de l'Olivar is Palma's largest covered market. See what treasures you can find. If you want a more laid-back experience, consider staying a couple of days in Grand Portals Nous, located about 20 minutes from the city's center on the Mediterranean shore.

Places to Stay: Es Princep , Iberostar Grand Portals Nous , Puro Hotel Palma and Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Mallorca .

7 Great Winter Weekend Getaways in the U.S., Whether You’re After Sun or Snow

Whether you’re craving winter sun or a snowy wonderland, these spots are ideal for a short break..

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No matter what kind of winter you prefer (Florida’s sunshine or Park City’s snow), there’s a perfect weekend getaway.

Photo by Johnny Adolphson/Shutterstock

There are two schools of thought on taking quick breaks in winter: One says to head to a beach or sunny destination to escape the cold; the other says to dive into the season and find the most snow, the best winter activities, and live it up as much as hats and mittens allow.

Thankfully, the U.S. offers such a wealth of winter weekend getaways from coast to coast that you don’t have to choose. You could do both if time and money allow. The hardest part is deciding where to go. We’ve rounded up seven winter weekend getaway ideas around the country that are easy to get to and promise to deliver the quick escape you are looking for.

Palm Beach turns to balmy beach in the winter months.

Photo by pisaphotography/Shutterstock

1. Palm Beach, Florida

Temperatures dip to the mid-70s in south Florida during the winter months, making it a perfect time to visit. Head there in December for the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival or in January for Art Palm Beach , a citywide celebration of modern art. The fantastic Norton Museum of Art is worth a trip in any month; this season sees exhibitions on impressionism, through February 18, and another on the symbolism of Chinese animal paintings, through February 4.

Where to stay: White Elephant Palm Beach

Retire to chic accommodations at the new White Elephant Palm Beach , a hotel from the people who brought you the much-loved White Elephant in Nantucket.

The 32-room hotel has its own impressive art collection and offers guests an elegant old-Florida mood. After a loving modernization from its previous life as a 1924 landmarked Mediterranean-revival resort, it reopened in late 2020. Airy and bright, the hotel melds the casual vibe of Nantucket life with the polished sophistication of Palm Beach. Walls and floors in beachy tones of white and sand provide a backdrop for rattan furniture, bold artwork, and a black-and-white motif that appears in awnings, rugs, and beautiful objects.

Santa Fe, in a state whose motto is the “Land of Enchantment,” gets even more enchanting when covered in a blanket of snow.

Photo by Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

2. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Sure, Santa Fe is famously charming but winter brings out something altogether magical: the adobe buildings embellished by snow, the scent of cedar piñon wood fires in the air, the nighttime glow of luminarias lining streets during the holidays, and the intense mountain sun warming the days. That New Mexico “Land of Enchantment” motto feels like a bull’s-eye this time of year.

A winter visit means time to shop or window-shop the galleries along Canyon Road or around the Plaza (don’t miss the mind-blowing Native American arts at Shiprock ). The Railyard Arts District offers more cultural diversions, including the never-not-surprising art space, Site Santa Fe . Be sure to set aside an afternoon for Ten Thousand Waves , a Japanese-style mountain spa that incorporates the scenic New Mexico landscape into its aesthetic. Float away in one of the private outdoor hot tubs or Japanese soaking tubs and indulge in a classic shiatsu massage or other spa treatment. When you’re fully blissed out, head back into town for dinner. The fall’s Hatch chile harvest and the cold Santa Fe nights mean it’s prime time for a bowl of green chile stew or some red chile posole at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen , which has been ladling some of the best since the 1950s.

Where to stay: Bishop’s Lodge Auberge Resorts Collection

The Bishop’s Lodge is a beloved historic landmark. (Willa Cather’s novel Death Comes for the Archbishop was inspired by Bishop Lamy, the missionary who built the chapel and lodge in the 1860s.) Long favored by family travelers for its large rooms and expansive property, the resort had fallen into disrepair when Auberge Resorts swept in, restored it, and reopened the newly buffed and luxurious resort.

3. Austin, Texas

In January, when you’ve had enough cold, head to sunny Austin where winter daytime temperatures are in the 60s and it’s officially the dry season. Other seasonal selling points in the Texas capital: taco trucks, live music, hiking without heatstroke, and evenings spent lingering by firepits on brewery patios. The James Beard Award–winning chef Mashama Bailey—whose Savannah restaurants the Grey and Grey Market lure eaters to that Southern port city—opened two restaurants at the hotel Thompson Austin in 2022. The Grey Market and the Diner Bar have more space than their Savannah cousins, and the chef explores native Texas ingredients with the same attention and invention she shows those of Lowcountry Georgia.

Where to stay: The Thompson Austin

The Thompson Austin offers 212 guest rooms, an infinity pool (with poolside dining), and a billiard room, right in the middle of Austin’s entertainment district.

Deer Valley offers serious skiing, but the Park City area has plenty of off-slope entertainment too, including the Sundance Film Festival and Olympic-sport activities.

4. Park City, Utah

In the mood to zip up your parka and embrace the season (warmly, snugly)? Go to a place where snow is celebrated, Park City. Just a 45-minute drive from the Salt Lake City Airport, this town boasts an annual snowfall that makes it the envy of other ski resorts. The Winter Olympic Games were held in Park City in 2002, and the Olympic Park is open for your own quest for excellence. Head to the Oval for an open ice-skating session or summon your courage for a figure-skating or speed-skating lesson. If you’re really feeling brave, sign up for a really, really fast and thrilling ride down the bobsled track with a professional bobsled pilot.

In January, the eyes of the entertainment world turn to Park City for the Sundance Festival. It’s undeniably fun to see celebrities tromping around town in their après-ski togs. Which brings us to Park City’s main draw. The town is home to two ski resorts: Deer Valley (a luxury option with a serious ski school, lots of meticulously groomed slopes, and top-notch off-slope dining options) and Park City Mountain (a sprawling 7,300 acres of slopes accessed via lifts right from Main Street in town or from Canyons Village, where most of the hotels are).

Where to stay: The Pendry Park City

The Pendry Park City is the newish cool kid in town. The hotel, with 153 guest rooms, features lots of dining options including a pizza place, and the town’s only rooftop pool and bar with a view of the slopes.

5. Charleston, South Carolina

There are a dozen good reasons everybody loves Charleston: the rich history, the mild coastal winter, the architecture, the walkability. Don’t miss the Charleston Wine + Food festival. Running during the first week of March, it will see an impressive roster of chefs, bartenders, brewers, musicians, artists, and makers gather in town to talk, eat, show off, and host a joyous event that celebrates Charleston’s contribution to food culture.

The Lowcountry Oyster Festival , meanwhile, returns on February 6, 2024. And from mid-March to mid-April, the Charleston Festival celebrates its 77th year, with concerts, exhibitions, and more. Spring starts early here so even in March, the color and perfume of the gardens will not disappoint.

Where to stay: The Loutrel

The 50-room Loutrel in the historic French Quarter promises a stylish and luxurious stay. This city loves a roof deck, and the Loutrel’s terrace offers killer views of downtown’s steeples and harbor.

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

An Atlantic island may seem like a chilly choice for a winter getaway, but pack the right clothes and you’ll feel like you’ve uncovered a closely guarded secret. In early December, the Christmas Stroll , a weeklong affair, means browsing local stores, sipping mulled cider, and side-stepping carolers on cobbled streets where houses are garlanded and wreathed and twinkle-lit to perfection.

Beyond that busy week, the rest of winter seems notably quieter and peaceful. The only other people you’ll see will be locals, something that no visitor during the booming summer season can claim. Bring a book (or buy one at Nantucket Bookworks ), rent a bike and ride to the lighthouses, take walks on the moody, spectacular beaches, and enjoy the serene and sparkling winter weather. Island favorite Cisco Brewers is open all year, keeps a busy food-truck schedule, and runs a free shuttle to town.

Where to stay: Greydon House

Many island hotels close up tight over the winter but Greydon House stays open. The fully renovated 1850 sea captain’s house is cozy and stylish (the Roman + Williams design respectfully incorporates elements of the island’s maritime culture). The 17 guest rooms are bright and spare but comfortable, and the hotel’s lounge area is perfect for settling in with a book and a drink.

7. Los Angeles, California

The alfresco L.A. life really shines when winter kicks in. Patio brunches are served to diners clad in T-shirts, beaches fill with people taking a stroll instead of swimmers, and the nearby mountain trails beckon. (Snowy adventures, meanwhile, are only a few hours away in the likes of Big Bear or Mammoth. ) Destination Crenshaw, the largest public art project devoted to Black artists in the country, will open this year—one of many reasons Los Angeles was included in AFAR’s Where to Go 2024 list.

Where to stay: Proper Hotel

The Proper in downtown L.A. used to be a YWCA but is now an upscale art deco retreat with that requisite rooftop pool.

This article originally appeared in November 2021. It was updated on November 29, 2023.

The best places to visit in December 2023

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Freiburg in the Black Forest for a taste of Germany in winter © picture alliance / Getty Images

December may mean the year is coming to an end – but that doesn’t mean your travel plans have to. If you’re looking for the best place to visit in December, here are some of Lonely Planet’s top picks, whether you want stunning northern lights, epic beach adventures or cozy Christmas markets. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for relaxation?

Palawan, Philippines

Why now? Dry skies for wet adventures.

Dubbed “ the Philippines ’ last ecological frontier,” pristine Palawan – the country’s westernmost province – is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve and a haven of biodiversity above and below the water line. There are over 1700 islands here, covered by virgin forest, edged by limestone cliffs and fringed by coral reefs. The diving is varied and spectacular. At El Nido , in the north, there are 20-plus dive sites where exciting sightings range from nudibranchs and seahorses to turtles and huge shoals of snapper. Around Coron Island , there’s thrilling wreck diving, with numerous WWII remnants to explore. There’s also decent diving in easy reach of the capital, Puerto Princesa – sites include walls and pinnacles, a variety of corals, plenty of unusual macro species, colorful reef fish, crustaceans, schooling barracuda and jacks, rays and reef sharks. Puerto Princesa is also the gateway to the Subterranean River National Park , a navigable underground waterway through incredible karst formations.

San Diego, California 

Why now? For city life, winter sun, Santa and cetaceans.

Winter is relative in southern California . In San Diego rain is more likely but days remain mild (average highs: 66°F/19°C). It’s certainly still warm enough to wander the city’s village-like neighborhoods – fancy La Jolla , surfy Encinitas, alternative Ocean Beach , foodie Little Italy, the lively, bar-packed Gaslamp Quarter – and to lose yourself in enormous Balboa Park , with its museums (Air & Space, Art, Natural History) and world-famous zoo . For further wildlife encounters, book a boat tour or head to the cliff-top trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in the hope of spotting dolphins and migrating gray whales, which pass along the coast here between December and March. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for wildlife and nature?

Central Kalahari, Botswana

Why now? For cheaper prices and greater game.

In this immense wildlife reserve, covering 50,000 sq km (19,305 sq miles) and one of the largest in the world, rain does not stop play. Indeed, it positively encourages it. While December marks the start of the rainy season in Botswana , it’s the best time to visit the semi-arid Central Kalahari . In the northernmost areas, around Northern Deception Valley in particular, the flush of wildflowers and grasses attracts great gatherings of grazers, which in turn attract predators – large numbers of hyena, leopard and the reserve’s famed black-maned lions are all found here. This is also the best time for birding, as many species are wearing their breeding plumage and migrants are around. Roads may become trickier to navigate but the payoff is excellent wildlife viewing and, at times, soul-stirringly stormy skies. There are opportunities to engage with the San people too.

Arctic Sweden

Why now? Sleep on ice beneath the Northern Lights.

At the Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi, one degree of latitude north of the Arctic Circle, the sun never rises in the last three weeks of the year. In December, darkness is the dominant state – perfect for watching the Aurora Borealis . Jukkasjärvi is the home of the original Icehotel, where you can spend a night in a bed made of ice. The area is also a base for cross-country skiing, husky sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, meeting reindeer and learning about traditional Sámi culture – magical for kids and grown-ups alike. Some 100km (62 miles) to the northwest, Abisko National Park is even further removed from the light, an otherworldly landscape offering arguably the world’s best aurora-watching. 

Where are the best places to travel to in December for culture?

Martinique 

Why now? To sing carols with a Creole twist.

December doesn’t just mean Christmas in the French Caribbean. It means Chanté-Nwel. One of Martinique ’s biggest annual festivities, held across the island from November to Christmas Day, it sees people gather to sing carols to Creole rhythms (a practice dating back to the days of slavery) and feast on local favorites including yams, pâtés, boudin créole (blood sausage), yule logs and potent shrubb – a Christmas cocktail crafted from dried orange peel, sugarcane syrup and white rum. Very festive. All that’s missing is the snow: with sunny skies and average highs of 82.4°F (28°C), this is perfect beach weather; chill out on the vast sweep of white sand at Les Salines or the black sand of Anse Noire . 

Chhattisgarh & Odisha, India 

Why now? For cultural encounters in milder weather.

The neighboring states of Odisha ( Orissa ) and Chhattisgarh (a breakaway chunk of Madhya Pradesh) offer perhaps the most authentic insight into rural India . These regions are largely neglected by tourists, perhaps due to their lack of “big” sights. But the appeal here is in getting away from the cities and meeting the people, such as the majority Gond (famed for their vibrant art), the tattooed Kutia Kondh, the Indigenous groups of the jungles around Jeypore, the bead-wearing Bonda or the cultural melee of a haat bazaar (weekly market), where many tribal groups gather to haggle over everything from butter and salt to clothes and jewelry. The Bastar region of Chhattisgarh is a good place to start – visit markets, hike between village homestays and witness tribal festivals: the Madai Festival, which moves around the communities of Bastar, Kanker and Dantewada, is celebrated from December to March (when temperatures are mild, too).

Where are the best places to travel to in December for food and drink? 

Black Forest, Germany 

Why now? For a touch of Teutonic magic.

The Black Forest is Germany ’s most romantic, fairy-tale-laced region. And never more so than in December, when its rolling hills and dense-packed evergreens might be sprinkled with snow and when everywhere is sprinkled with Christmas. The lively university town of Freiburg is a fine festive choice.

Its medieval center of cobbled lanes and gabled houses is lovely to wander at any time, but now smells of Glühwein  (mulled wine) and gingerbread; browse the Christmas market, where you can make your own candles and cookies, ride the Ferris wheel and feast on raclette and wurst. Further afield, take the train or bus to nearby Hinterzarten for the striking Ravennaschlucht market, where traditional stalls cluster in a gorge beneath the Devil’s Valley Railway viaduct. 

Puerto Rico 

Why now? For a never-ending Noel.

Twelve days of Christmas? Pah! Sunny and spirited Puerto Rico stretches it to 60 days, starting with Thanksgiving (this is a US “unincorporated territory,” after all) and not finishing until mid-January. Visit in December and you’ll likely come across shops stacked with festive trinkets, late-night parrandas (carol singing in the streets), church Masses filled with aguinaldos (Christmas songs) and the hearty consumption of festive feasts: lechón (suckling pig), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pork-and-potato pasteles (steamed plantain tamales) and coquet (sweet spiced coconut drink). The Día de los Inocentes (28 December) is particularly fun, akin to April Fool’s Day, when people play tricks on each other – head to Hatillo for the best high-jinks.

Season’s greetings aside, the weather is wonderful right now for exploring this proudly Latino Caribbean idyll. Wander the bright alleys of Old San Juan (founded 1521) and lively second-city Ponce ; venture into El Yunque for rainforest hikes; check out the surf at Rincón ; and consider sailing over to the islands of Vieques and Culebra for quieter sands and dazzling after-dark kayaking in Bioluminescent Bay.

Where are the best places to travel to in December for adventure?

Why now? Crowd-lite, multi-sport, fairytale snow fun.

While snug-sized Slovenia  can’t compete with Europe’s winter-sports big boys, the country is still splendid when the snow starts to fall. There is good skiing, albeit on a smaller scale.

Resorts such as lively Kranjska Gora, reliable Krvavec and family-friendly Vogel aren’t huge but also aren’t as busy as other Alpine hubs. But where the country really excels is in multi-activity winter breaks, combining downhilling and snowboarding with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow-hiking, ice-climbing or even igloo-building and night tobogganing. The landscapes are thrilling, too, with most resorts located in and around handsome Triglav National Park . Photographers will love the high peaks, frozen waterfalls, snowy forests, beautiful Lake Bohinj and magical Lake Bled , with its lake isle and castle shimmering in the frost. 

Vancouver Island, Canada 

Why now? For really wild times.

As winter arrives, the restive region where Arctic and subtropical air collides shifts south, and low-pressure systems build in the Gulf of Alaska. This equals stupendous storms, which thwack the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island , stirring up gigantic swells, roaring winds and epic skies. It’s Mother Nature at her most marvelously unhinged and cinematic – and it’s worth braving a bit of weather for front-row seats. On the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the little town of Ucluelet (meaning “people of the safe harbor”) is a great place to watch the action unfold. 

Want more expert recommendations for every month of the year? Check out the brand-new edition of  Where to Go When . 

This article was first published September 2019 and updated October 2023

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31 Romantic Winter Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

From fairbanks, alaska, to charleston, south carolina.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Want to whisk your sweetie away on a romantic winter getaway in the United States? It's time to start planning now. Whether your other half would prefer to curl up in a cozy cabin with a good book or hit the slopes on a ski vacation , frosty fun awaits in big cities , small towns and rural areas across the country. "Aspen has such an undeniable buzz. Alaska is rife for adventure with dogsledding, snowmobiling and even heli-skiing," says Carolyn Addison, head of product at luxury travel company Black Tomato . “I’m also a big fan of an off-season trip to Newport. It’s so pedigreed and well-heeled but with tremendous character.” Rather catch some rays at the beach? We’ve also included a few scintillating warm-weather locales that snowbirds are sure to love. And, of course, destinations with mild climates and a plethora of outdoor activities (hello, hiking and biking) haven’t been overlooked either. Scroll on and let the sparks fly.

9 COUPLES VACATIONS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FALL IN LOVE ALL OVER AGAIN

1. Truckee, California

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, Western vibes
• Things to Do: skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ice skating, walk around Lake Tahoe, Western-style main street
• Where to Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Tahoe-Truckee (from $175/night); Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe (from $164/night); Adventure Cabin 72 (from $122/night, sleeps 4)

Just a three-hour drive from the urban sprawl of San Francisco , Truckee is a picturesque mountain town that’s the perfect home base for exploring the majesty of Lake Tahoe . Fill your days with hiking, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding or go for a nostalgic twirl with your partner on the Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink. As the sun starts to go down, the twinkly lights illuminate the western-style main drag that’s full of shops and restaurants for a casual date night.

2. Marfa, Texas

• Why We Love It: art, culture, desert scenery
• Things to Do: Marfa Mystery Lights , contemporary art at Ballroom Marfa , Chinati Foundation , Marfa Book Company , Prada Marfa
• Where to Stay: Hotel Saint George (from $370/night); Riata Inn (from $149/night); The Friedman Ranch (from $2,014/night, sleeps 6)

If eye-catching art, Instagrammable sights and tumbleweed-dotted dreaminess are your love language, then we’d highly recommend journeying to Marfa. This hip 1.6-square-mile desert gem in west Texas may be tiny but it’s packed with massively creative energy and cool stuff to see, including the Marfa Mystery Lights and contemporary art installations at Ballroom Marfa and Chianti Foundation. You’ll also want to drop in at Marfa Book Company, which hosts talks, readings and performances. And if you leave without heading to Prada, did you even visit the town? The vast, arid landscape is nothing short of mesmerizing. And because winter isn’t as popular of a time to visit, you might even have the good fortune of capturing some cute couple’s shots sans other tourists. 

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Why We Love It: history, food, nightlife, hotels
• Things to Do: Bourbon Street , Jackson Square, French Quarter , New Orleans Museum of Art , Café du Monde
• Where to Stay: Cambria Hotel (from $178/night); Omni Royal Orleans Hotel (from $256/night); Eclectic Uptown Home (from $211/night, sleeps 5)

New Orleans has a party-centric reputation, and that’s definitely warranted. However, there’s more to the Big Easy than Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street. It’s a rich melting pot of music, cuisine and architecture that’s totally tempting in the winter when the temperature drops yet the offerings remain sizzling hot. If you’ve already done the whole dimly-lit dinner date night thing, why not shake up the after-dark escapades with a haunted bar crawl ? (If nothing else, it’s a great excuse to hold your sweetie extra close.)

4. Key West, Florida

• Why We Love It: warm weather, nightlife, art, beaches 
• Things to Do: Key West Garden Club , historic seaport, tiki boat tours, Hemingway House
• Where to Stay: Westwinds Inn (from $268/night); Blue Marlin Motel (from $234/night); Coral Hammock Townhouse (from $306/night)

Those who self-identify as snowbirds (and really any couple keen to escape the cold) should fly down to Key West for a sun-splashed, stress-free weekend of enviable weather, daiquiris, beach strolls, candy-colored sunsets and bar hopping in Florida's southernmost point. Don’t stay out too late because you’ll need to rise early for a snorkeling excursion to North America’s only living coral barrier reef. The Hemingway House is also a must, as well as a stroll down the historic seaport and a trip to the Key West Garden Club.

5. Palm Springs, California

• Why We Love It: sunshine, Hollywood glamor, design, leisure
• Things to Do: aerial tramway , Palm Springs Art Museum , Joshua Tree , visitors center , Palm Springs Air Museum
• Where to Stay: Margaritaville Resort (from $160/night); The Saguaro (from $107/night); Palm Springs Home (from $318/night, sleeps 6)

A *literal* oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert and the retreat of choice for A-listers dating back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, Palm Springs still tops the list of weekend getaways for romance and relaxation. With championship golf courses, gorgeous mountain views, stylish hotels, hot springs and some of the most swoon-worthy examples of mid-century modern architecture in the country, it’s easy to see why everyone who visits Palm Springs falls in love with this sun-splashed idyl. Start your day with a ride in the aerial tram to the top of San Jacinto Peak (have lunch at the top), then spend the rest of the day in the air conditioning. The Palm Springs Art and Air Museums offer plenty to see. For a cool slice of architectural history, head to the visitor’s center, a space-age creation and former gas station. Should you have a hankering to explore the outdoors, winter is the time to do it, and Joshua Tree isn’t far away.

6. Chicago, Illinois

• Why We Love It: cold-weather outdoor activities, food, hotels
• Things to Do: architecture tour, Riverwalk , Millennium Park , Art Institute of Chicago
• Where to Stay: Thompson Chicago (from $157/night); Gold Coast Brownstone (from $47/night, sleeps 6), Soho House Chicago (inquire for rates)

If you live anywhere in the Midwest , chances are you’re only a direct flight (or, maybe, even a reasonable drive) away from Chicago . While the weather in the Windy City might be a bit unforgiving in the winter months, the abundance of incredible things to do indoors—from visiting world-class museums and soaking in skyline views to cozying up in cocktails bars and splitting a deep-dish pizza with your person—along with seasonal attractions such as Christmas markets make it an enticing urban escape.

7. Scottsdale, Arizona

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, desert scenery, spas, resorts
• Things to Do: kayak Lower Salt River , hike in Sonoran Desert , Cosanti Foundation , Scottsdale Rodeo Museum
• Where to Stay: Hotel Adeline (from $169/night); Senna House Hotel (from $212);   Old Town Scottsdale Home (from $114/night, sleeps 6)

Winter in Scottsdale is just wow. It won’t be scorching like the summertime (that’s actually a good thing because if you’ve ever visited in July that’s a one-and-done situation), but you will get to enjoy clear, sunny skies. The picture-perfect vacation weather feels particularly well suited for partaking in the myriad outdoor activities, ranging from hiking in the Sonoran Desert to golf. Don’t forget to add spa sessions (couples massage, anyone?) and trips to the nearby Desert Botanical Garden to your weekend itinerary. You can’t leave town without hitting the Cosanti Foundation or the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum, either.

8. Aspen, Colorado

• Why We Love It: winter sports, aprés-ski scene, shopping
• Things to Do: Aspen Art Museum , skiing, snowboarding, Wheeler Opera House
• Where to Stay: The Gant (from $362/night); Limelight Hotel (from $413/night); Downtown Aspen Condo (from $260/night, sleeps 4)

Heaps of powder turn Aspen into one of the most magical places on the planet. Killer skiing and snowboarding are a given. But that’s only part of the appeal. Thanks to high-end shops, intimate restaurants for candlelight dinners, luxury resorts and cultural attractions such as the Aspen Art Museum, you can still have an incredibly romantic weekend without ever even putting on snow boots. You won’t regret splurging on a romantic room with luxury cowboy-inspired decor at Hotel Jerome , which gives you a taste of life in the 1800s (with modern comforts, of course). Be sure to also catch a performance at the Wheeler Opera House, designed by the same architect who did the hotel.  

9. Woodstock, Vermont

• Why We Love It: winter sports, New-England charm
• Things to Do: Billings Farm and Museum , Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park , Taftsville Covered Bridge
• Where to Stay: The Village Inn (from $358/night); Woodstock Inn & Resort (from $484); Barn Home (from $700/night, sleeps 6)

The Green Mountain State has so many dreamy winter destinations it’s almost impossible to pick just one. But we’ve got to give it up to Woodstock for being the perfect New England escape and the quintessential destination for a quiet weekend away without the kids. This small town attracts couples with its rolling hills, classic New England architecture and ample outdoor activities. Be sure to put the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park on your must-see list, plus all the covered bridges. Not to mention the delightful boutique shops, delicious farm-fresh dining as well as storied inns that blend heritage and homespun comforts. 

10. Newport, Rhode Island

• Why We Love It: New England charm, history, architecture
• Things to Do: Cliff Walk , Fort Adams State Park , The Breakers
• Where to Stay: Mill Street Inn (from $249/night); Wellington Resort (from $215/night); Gull’s Nest (from $295/night, sleeps 2)

While the masses may flock to Newport in the summer, this heritage-rich coastal enclave is pretty much guaranteed to reignite passion in the slower, frostier months. A blanket of glittering white snow covers the opulent Gilded Age mansions. There are tons of festive events and storefronts twinkle with lights. A chill in the air invites extra cuddles and sipping mulled cider overlooking the harbor. It’s also way easier to score coveted reservations at beloved restaurants like Clarke Cooke House and Giusto .

11. New York, New York

• Why We Love It: restaurants, ice skating, museums, hotels
• Things to Do: ice skating in Central Park , festive decorations at the Rockefeller Center , see the Rockettes
• Where to Stay: The Marlton (from $459/night); Virgin Hotels (from $464/night); Downtown Apartment (from $360/night, sleeps 2)

The city so nice they named it twice! Whereas many places slow down in the winter, the Big Apple continues to buzz in December, January and February. Whether you’re skating on The Rink at Rockefeller Center, ambling through the quaint streets of the West Village, snow-shoeing in Central Park, navigating the many masterpiece-filled rooms at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, catching a Broadway show or savoring a candlelit dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, New York comes up big in the romance department.

12. Kauai, Hawaii

• Why We Love It: scenery, beaches, outdoor activities 
• Things to Do: whale watching on the Na Pali Coast , helicopter or plane tour, Waimea Canyon
• Where to Stay: The Royal Sonesta Resort (from $391/night); Kauai Inn (from $238/night); Bamboo House (from $695/night, sleeps 6)

Kauai (aka the "Garden Isle") will steal your heart with its unspoiled beauty—pristine bays, secluded coves, lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs. A helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon is a must-do activity when in Hawaii and an experience that’s guaranteed to create bonding memories to last a lifetime. For active duos, there’s also mountain biking, volcano voyages, ATV tours and snorkeling. Of course, the fact that it’s bikini weather in the winter certainly doesn’t hurt either.

13. Galena, Illinois

• Why We Love It: history, architecture, relaxation
• Things to Do: Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site , Horseshoe Mound Preserve , historic main street
• Where to Stay: Galena Inn (from $245/night); Country Inn & Suites (from $114/night); Miner’s Cottage (from $127/night, sleeps 4)

When the forecast calls for snow, it’s time to hightail it out of the city to a quaint town. The Midwest is great—albeit freezing—during the frosty season. We’re especially sweet on Galena, a former lead-mining town with all the makings of a very adult and amour-inducing weekend that’s only three hours from Chicago. It has preserved 19th-century buildings (like the Ulysses S. Grant Home), antique shops on the historic main street, peaceful nature trails and farm-to-table eateries.

14. Sisters, Oregon

• Why We Love It: scenery, outdoor activities, cozy cabins
• Things to Do: Sisters Movie House , shop downtown, skiing, Dee Wright Observatory
• Where to Stay: Best Western Ponderosa Lodge (from $144/night); FivePine Lodge (from $257/night); Sisters Cabin (from $166/night, sleeps 6)

The state of Oregon is blessed with tons of beautiful places and charming small towns . Situated near the second-largest wilderness area in the state, Sisters offers couples access to majestic peaks (ever heard of the Three Sisters?), alpine meadows, waterfalls, lava fields, glaciers, freshwater streams, sparkling lakes, forests and all sorts of outdoor adventure. In the winter, that means snowy hikes and skiing. Woodsy cabins with oversized soaking tubs, king beds and fireplaces bring the romance at FivePine Lodge & Spa .

15. Bozeman, Montana

• Why We Love It: skiing, hot springs, breweries
• Things to Do: Museum of the Rockies , American Computer & Robotics Museum , Ellen Theater , Bozeman Hot Springs
• Where to Stay: Sapphire Motel Midtown (from $144/night); Country Inn & Suites (from $200/night); Beall Street Bungalow (from $202/night, sleeps 4)

Top-notch skiing makes a compelling case for jetting off to Bozeman during the snowy season. But that’s not all! Winter also brings romantic sleigh rides and adrenaline-raising ice climbing. Lovebirds can unwind with a dip in the natural hot springs, sample stouts at local breweries and shop the artisan boutiques along Main Street. For a unique date night, head to the planetarium to stare up at the majesty of the cosmos at Montana State University’s Museum of the Rockies. 

16. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

• Why We Love It: winter sports, western vibes, nature, wildlife
• Things to Do: Jackson town square, skiing, Grand Teton National Park
• Where to Stay: Spring Creek Ranch (from $209/night); The Virginian Lodge (from $142/night); Baitshop Cabin (from $391/night, sleeps 6)

Jackson Hole entices any time of year. Although, we’ll admit that Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park are both somehow even more breathtaking blanketed in snow. Love skiing and snowboarding? The area boasts three winter resorts: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee Resort. Downtown has adorable shops, Western-inspired bars and wonderful restaurants. Be sure to snap a photo with your darling in front of the famous antler arches to keep as a memento.

17. Camden, Maine

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, New England coziness, sweeping coastal views
• Things to Do: Camden Opera House, Penobscot Bay, High Street Historic District, Camden Snow Bowl
• Where to Stay: Elms of Camden (from $168/night); Lord Camden Inn (from $204/night); Camden Village Home (from $251/night, sleeps 8)

Dreaming of stealing away to one of the prettiest small towns in New England for the weekend? The moment you gaze upon Penobscot Bay, the glistening harbor and the well-preserved 19th-century homes covered in fresh flakes, it’ll become abundantly clear why Camden is so special. It’s obviously worth shouting out the seafood eateries, local wineries (apparently, Maine produces some pretty good vino?) and performances at Camden Opera House. We’d be remiss not to mention the cozy inns with hot tubs and fireplaces.

18. Sonoma, California

• Why We Love It: wine, vineyards, food, scenery
• Things to Do: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, Sonoma State Historic Park, Sonoma Overlook Trail
• Where to Stay: Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa (from $323/night); El Pueblo Inn (from $199/night); Quail Creek House (from $450/night, sleeps 6)

Wine, food and romance go together like, well, wine, food and romance. During shoulder season in Sonoma, the climate remains mild, yet hotel rates drop. And what's sexier than having extra money in your pocket to spend on fresh-from-the-field farm and biodynamic vino from a local producer? The Reserve Experience at Hamel Family Wines marries a four-course meal with limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon and other terroir-driven sips. When you’re ready to take advantage of the good California weather, head outside to Sonoma State Historic Park or the Overlook trail. If less walking is more your speed, you can still count the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley as an outdoor activity.

19. Sandpoint, Idaho

• Why We Love It: winter sports, snow, lakefront fun, mountains
• Things to Do: Cedar Street Bridge Public Market , Panida Theatre , Mickinnick Trail Head
• Where to Stay: Best Western Edgewater Resort (from $128/night); Talus Rock Retreat (from $229/night); Lookout Tower (from $229/night, sleeps 2)

At first, Sandpoint may not seem like the most obvious pick for a red-hot winter getaway. But its sparkling Lake Pend Oreille, awe-inspiring mountains and 300 inches of snow say otherwise. While you’re there, take advantage of the array of outdoor activities (who’s up for cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling?), grab a pint at MickDuff’s Brewing Company and see a concert at The Panida Theater. Picture you and your loved one snuggling under a blanket on the porch of this peaceful log cabin .

20. Miami Beach, Florida

• Why We Love It: warm weather, beaches, nightlife
• Things to Do: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens , Bayside Marketplace , Pérez Art Museum Miami
• Where to Stay: The Palms Hotel & Spa (from $299/night); Loews Hotel (from $299/night); Art Deco Apartment (from $50/night, sleeps 4)

Want to escape the cold? Venture to Miami Beach for sunshine, great food, nightlife, Art Deco architecture and seaside canoodling with your partner. The average temp in January is 76 degrees, which means you can spend days basking in the golden rays. Snag tickets to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and spend a morning wandering the beautiful villa on Biscayne Bay. Then, pop by Bayside Marketplace, a two-story shopping extravaganza, before heading to Pérez Art Museum. What’s on tap for evenings? Dinner at a trendy restaurant, followed by sipping cocktails at a swanky lounge, going dancing or hitting a club. We’d suggest staying at The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club for the sexy, grown-up vibe.

21. Cornwall, Connecticut

• Why We Love It: New-England charm
• Things to Do: skiing, Wyantenock State Forest , Cornwall Covered Bridge
• Where to Stay: Cornwall Guest House (from $260/night, sleeps 2); Modern Forest Cabin (from $212/night, sleeps 4); The Brookside Barn (from $155/night, sleeps 3)

New England nostalgia is very much on display in Cornwall—and a dusting of snowflakes only makes this tiny town in Litchfield County even prettier. The slopes of Mohawk Mountain lure skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels from all over the East Coast. Rugged and remote, Wyantenock State Forest encompasses 4,000 acres. On a given afternoon in the winter, you probably won’t see another person (besides your partner, of course). The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is also must-see.

22. Loretto, Kentucky

• Why We Love It: food, booze, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Bluegrass Parkway, Maker’s Mark Distillery, Dinner Train
• Where to Stay: Jailer’s Inn (from $165/night); Talbott Tavern and Inn (from $116/night); The Wagon Wheel Barndominium (from $175/night, sleeps 6)

Why visit Loretto? Beautiful views, country cooking and bourbon! Kick off your trip with a scenic drive along the Bluegrass Parkway. Take a tour of Maker's Mark Distillery to learn how the famous spirit is made (the heavenly aromas are definitely an aphrodisiac), explore the limestone cellars and slog back a few tipples. The other can’t-miss attraction? The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. There are several ride options, including teatime, bourbon, lunch, dinner, the North Pole Express and even a murder mystery excursion.

23. Leavenworth, Washington

• Why We Love It: Bavarian vibes, German food, beer, outdoor activities
• Things to Do: Icicle Brewing Company , Enzian Inn alpenhorn performances, Nutcracker Museum , Leavenworth Cider House
• Where to Stay: Blue Elk Inn (from $362/night); Leavenworth Village Inn (from $294/night); Camp Howard Bungalow (from $429/night, sleeps 4)

A fairytale destination in every sense that’s only two hours from Seattle, Leavenworth is one of the best mountain towns in the United States and a frontrunner for romance. This Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains brims with fresh alpine air, storybook architecture, beer halls (like Icicle Brewing Company) and all the schnitzel you can eat. Don’t miss the biggest pretzel of your life at Leavenworth Cider House and an alpenhorn performance at Enzian Inn. The charm level only rises when the flakes fall. Plus, there are awesome ski slopes. It really does tick all the boxes of an ideal winter vacation spot for couples.

24. Charleston, South Carolina

• Why We Love It: history, food, cocktail scene, hotels, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Rainbow Row, Joe Riley Waterfront, Charleston City Market
• Where to Stay: Hotel Mount Pleasant (from $157/night); Mills House (from $293/night); The Palmetto House (from $251/night, sleeps 4)

You could easily make the case for Charleston being the most romantic city in the South. The weather in the winter is generally mild, so that’s quite appealing (especially for folks in the frosty Midwest and Northeast). Don a light jacket for strolls along The Battery and the Joe Riley Waterfront, savor Low Country cuisine at the myriad award-winning restaurants and take couple-y pics in front of Rainbow Row.

25. Hudson, New York

• Why We Love It: antique shops, food, galleries, hotels, scenery
• Things to Do: Olana State Historic Site , Hudson Athens Lighthouse , Spotty Dog Books & Ale
• Where to Stay: Nest Hudson (from $310/night); The Wick (from $279/night); Modern A-Frame Cabin (from $316/night, sleeps 4)

Located just two hours from the Big Apple, Hudson has established itself as one of the most enchanting (and convenient) places for urbanites to escape city life for a few days. If indie shops, heritage-rich architecture and farm-to-table restaurants sound right up your alley, might we suggest stealing away to this charming country town for a winter weekend? The colder months also bring ample opportunities for fun outdoorsy activities like cross-country skiing and cozying up at the quaint hotels around town.

26. Park City, Utah

• Why We Love It: winter sports, shopping, Western vibes
• Things to Do: shopping on Main Street, hot air balloon rides, skiing and snowboarding
• Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Landmark Inn & Pancake House (from $134/night); Park Regency Resort (from $195/night); Old Town Home (from $280/night, sleeps 6)

Consistently ranked among the best mountain destinations in North America, Park City is a year-round playground for outdoor recreation. But this tourism darling shines even brighter in the winter with easy access to Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. It’s no secret that the slopes are epic . Sundance Film Festival is another big seasonal draw card. You’ll also find fantastic food, many boutiques along Main Street and upscale hotels. For some high-altitude excitement your honey won’t soon forget, book a hot-air balloon ride .

27. Savannah, Georgia

• Why We Love It: history, architecture, food, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Back in the Day Bakery , Forsyth Park, Owens-Thomas House
• Where to Stay: The Drayton Hotel (from $309/night); The Marshall House (from $223/night); Victorian Condo (from $153/night, sleeps 4)

An inimitable combination of charm and grace makes Savannah utterly irresistible. When the thermometer dips, so do the crowds. That makes it even more pleasant to meander hand in hand along the cobblestone streets, have a little picnic in Forsyth Park (with provisions from Back in the Day Bakery), gawk at the antebellum architecture, do a spooky ghost tour and revel in the pleasure of a riverboat cruise. The hearty Southern fare and boozy drinks are surefire ways to warm up in between exploring.

28. Lanesboro, Minnesota

• Why We Love It: arts, culture, leisure
• Things to Do: Commonweal Theatre Company , Root River Trail , Lanesboro Arts
• Where to Stay: High Court Loft (from $145/night, sleeps 4); The Hiding Place Cottage (from $115/night, sleeps 2); Pruett’s Paradise (from $81/night, sleeps 4)

Couples venturing to Lanesboro can expect arts, culture and a leisurely pace that seems tailor-made for reconnecting. The chilly weather in December, January and February encourages cozying up (body warmth is a real thing). There are vibrant galleries, studios and performances by roving thespians. The Commonweal Theatre Company stages a lineup of comedies, dramas and musicals. Hunker down at a rustic log cabin that’s located on the Root River Trail and only a few miles from downtown.

29. Vail, Colorado

• Why We Love It: winter sports, aprés-ski scene, scenery 
• Things to Do: skiing, Vail Brewing Company , Booth Falls Road
• Where to Stay: Austria Haus Hotel (from $279/night); Grand Hyatt Vail (from $233/night); Gore Creek Condo (from $150/night, sleeps 6)

It’s no secret that Vail is in one of the most charming towns in Colorado . For pairs who enjoy skiing and snowboarding, few places compare to this storied resort destination. Envision yourself sharing gondolas to the top of the summit while the flakes gracefully fall, racing side by side to the base of the mountain and indulging in some après-ski revelry. The perfect spot to settle in after hitting the slopes? Austria Haus Hotel , a romantic retreat with Swiss-chalet aesthetics in the middle of Vail Village. But before you settle in for the evening, grab a pint at Vail Brewing Company.

30. Fairbanks, Alaska

• Why We Love It: northern lights, outdoor activities, hot springs
• Things to Do: see the northern lights, Museum of the North , moose antler arch
• Where to Stay: Sophie Station Suites (from $189/night); Pike’s Waterfront Lodge (from $136/night); Aurora House (from $399/night, sleeps 8)

Admittedly, Fairbanks isn’t a feasible weekend getaway for most folks. That doesn’t mean it’s off the table for all couples. As if the chance to witness the northern lights wasn’t seductive enough, the mix of active and leisure pursuits really seals the deal. Try dog mushing, heat things up at the thermal springs or plan a trip to the Arctic Circle. We also love the idea of reserving a log cabin and glimpsing the aurora borealis from the comfort of your own deck.

31. Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Why We Love It: good weather, good mix of rural and urban settings
• Things to Do: shopping in Old Town, hot air balloon rides , Sandia Peak Tramway
• Where to Stay: Baymont by Wyndham (from $93/night); DoubleTree by Hilton (from $140/night); Orchard Casita (from $271/night, sleeps 4)

Albuquerque may not be the first destination that comes to mind when it comes to romantic getaways, but trust us, this beautiful spot ticks all the boxes. It’s the perfect mixture of rural and metropolitan vibes—without the dreary isolation or overcrowding. Head over to Old Town for a day of limitless shopping and learning all about New Mexican culture, before ending the night with a delicious dinner for two courtesy of Farm and Table , a sophisticated, cozy restaurant serving fresh and locally grown food.

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12 Last Minute Suggestions for a December Getaway

Treat yourself to travel for Christmas.

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Want to change up your annual Christmas routine and do something really different? Why not take advantage of some great December travel offers and escape with family or friends to a dream destination? Whether you like warm, sunny climates to chase the winter blues away or prefer a genuine Yuletide experience complete with snow, skiing and holiday festivities, here are some options starting with a Jamaica getaway to Bluefields Bay Villas . Located on the far west side of the island in an idyllic fishing and farming community, you can experience an unspoiled nature retreat on the water with this Jamaican holiday.

Quebec City, Canada

One of the more unique lodging options in Quebec City is the Hotel De Glace , a spectacular architectural creation made of ice and offering 44 themed rooms and suites (pictured). This ice hotel is the only one of its kind in North America and includes hot tubs and sauna amenities. While you are in Quebec City (a UNESCO World Heritage treasure), you can take a carriage tour, skate in Place D’Youville, browse the annual German Christmas market, stroll through the city’s Christmas Village and experience some of the season’s best festivals.

Sedona, Arizona

If you want a December getaway that combines scenic beauty with cultural and wellness offerings, then Sedona should be your mantra. From its healing spas and salons to a vibrant arts scene, the town is famous for its stunning location in a geological wonderland of red rock canyons, mesas and meadows. It is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts offering excellent biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing, rafting and other activities. To top it off, you can experience the world’s largest 3D holiday light show from December 14-17 and celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Sedona Arts Center .

The 50th state in the U.S. is always an ideal vacation choice if you are seeking a tropical paradise. You also have unlimited choices on how to spend your time there. You could go snorkeling and take a cruise around Kealakekua Bay and other scenic wonders with Fair Wind Cruises . Treat yourself to luxurious accommodations at the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast and experience a side trip to Botanical World Adventures . Tour the rain forests of Hana and the breaktaking sea cliffs of Maui via Maverick Helicopters . Outdoor enthusiasts can opt for a whale-watching kayak tour while those seeking a restful spa vacation can find the perfect retreat at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Lahaina (pictured above).

Lexington, Kentucky

Legendary bourbon distilleries, picturesque horse farms, historic estate tours by candlelight and the lovely scenic wonders of the bluegrass state await you in Lexington, Kentucky . Among the several hotels and inns offering special December packages are the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa , which includes a Bourbon Lover’s special, Gratz Park Inn in the historic downtown and 21c Museum Hotel , a former bank transformed into an 88-room boutique hotel and contemporary art museum with a private dining room situated in the bank’s former vault.

St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida

The warm, sunny shores of Florida are always a great choice for those who want to escape the cold in December and one of the most desirable areas is Western Florida on the Tampa Bay Gulf where you can find ideal waterfront lodgings in St. Petersburg or Clearwater . Among some of the top-rated accommodations that are offering special December-January rates are the historic Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club on the St. Petersburg bayfront and two Clearwater favorites, The Sheraton Sand Key (pictured) and the Wyndham Grand .

Baltimore, Maryland

One of the best-kept secrets among cities on the East Coast, Baltimore has enjoyed a cultural renaissance in recent years and is now a go-to place for its exciting culinary scene, arts community, historic districts and seasonal festivals, especially during the Christmas holidays. Take advantage of popular local accommodations such as the Hotel Monaco located near Baltimore’s inner harbor. Experience family-friendly events like the Santa Club buffet and train ride at the B&O Railroad Museum , skating at the Pandora Ice Rink or the 50th Anniversary of Kwanzaa Celebration at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture .

London, England

If you want to experience a Christmas holiday where old-fashioned tradition and contemporary culture blend together in delightful ways, London is your destination. Check out the dazzling holiday lights along Regent Street, Duke of York Square, Bond Street and other neighborhoods. Shop for gifts at Harrods or stroll the South Bank with a bag of roasted chestnuts. Go ice skating at Somerset House or join the carolers by candlelight at the Royal Albert Hall . Families will enjoy the Winnie the Pooh exhibition at the V&A Museum while theater devotees can attend definitive productions of "The Nutcracker" at the Royal Opera House and "La Boheme" at The King’s Head Theatre . Discounted lodgings can be found at Last Minute , Hotels.com and other travel websites.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Golf, tennis, biking, fishing and family-friendly outdoor excursions are just a few of the activities that attract people to this lowcountry resort that is southwest of Charleston, South Carolina and northeast of Savannah, Georgia. But an alternative lure that is becoming increasingly popular are wellness getaways. Hilton Head Health offers a December package that includes accommodations, meals, yoga training, cardio kickboxing, spa facilities, paddleboarding, fitness classes and other amenities in a laid-back, beautiful setting.

What could be a better gift for ski fanatics and winter sports fans than a trip to Colorado in December? Consider a ski package from Keystone that includes their Kidtopia Spectacular or the Snowmass 50th anniversary special that comes with a fireworks display, prix fixe meals, a cabin jump and rail jam and other festivities. Experience the four day Olympic Qualifier competition in Breck via Dew Tour . Take advantage of the Winter Nights & City Light package from the historic Crawford Hotel in Denver or enjoy pure luxury with a winter welcome offer from the newly-debuted Hotel Talisa in Vail.

Tuscany, Italy

Tired of dealing with the tourist crowds in the spring, summer and fall in Italy? Why not consider a December getaway? Toscana Resort Castelfalfi in the heart of Tuscany is offering a variety of vacation options from romantic weekend specials to culinary tours and tastings to unlimited golf and spa packages. There are also Christmas and New Year’s Eve specials that bundle the food and wines of the region with live music and luxurious accommodations.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Nightlife, fine dining, casinos and spectacular light displays offer a different kind of Yuletide holiday in Las Vegas. Visit The Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas where you can enjoy rooftop skating that overlooks the heart of the strip. Chose from various room offers at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino which include live show packages featuring Kelly Clarkson, Patton Oswald, Magic Mike, Nickelback or many others. Celebrate the first year anniversary of the Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino (pictured) with a special deal that includes Asian dining, gaming and festivities such as Chinese Lion and Dragon dances.

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Here Are The 15 Absolute Best Places To Visit In December Across The United States

Chris Muras

Every adventure starts with a single step. And then another, and another, until you find yourself somewhere new and undiscovered. That’s the journey of a writer. You never know where the next word will take you. Hopefully, together, we can experience some amazing new adventures at OnlyInYourState.

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December is a fun time all across the United States with the holidays and winter festivities in full swing. Whether your idea of a winter getaway is to a tropical beach setting or a snow-capped mountain, we have some wonderful destinations to show you. Here are some of the best places to visit in the U.S. in December for you to start planning your next getaway.

Best Places to Visit in The USA In December

Best attractions to visit in the usa in december to avoid crowds, best places to visit in the us in december for outdoor adventure, best places to visit in december for events, best hidden gems to visit in the us in december.

If you are wondering where to visit in December in the USA, we have some extra special destinations for you to explore. From some places you have possibly always wanted to go, to hidden gems you may not have heard about yet. Here are some of our favorites that we think you’ll love too.

• Location : Pasadena, CA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Pasadena, California in December is a quiet time of year with mild temps in the upper 60s to lower 70s. Activity heats up toward the end of the month when the city gears up for the annual Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day Parade and the Rose Bowl. The official events happen in January but the festivities begin in late December.
• Where To Stay Nearby : Enjoy a Pasadena getaway with this charming Spanish-style home with a private pool and patio with a brick fireplace only 15 minutes from all of the activity around the Rose Parade and Old Town Pasadena.

• Location : St. Augustine, FL
• Why Visit In December : Visiting St. Augustine, Florida in December is the perfect way to get away from the huge tourist crowds that flood the city in warmer months. The city really gears up for Christmas celebrations, even as far back as mid-November and lasting toward the end of January. A particularly festive area is the Plaza de la Constitución.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This charming renovated 1920s bungalow is the perfect spot to enjoy all that St. Augustine has to offer. This cute home is within walking distance of all the best attractions in the city.

• Location : Albuquerque, NM
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Albuquerque, New Mexico in December is a festive time of year. With numerous holiday events like the Twinkle Light Parade, the River of Lights, and the Old Town Holiday Stroll, you will be kept busy celebrating your love of the holidays.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This lovely Southwestern-style home is only a few minutes from Old Town and all of the year-round activities and festivals ABQ is known for.

One of the best reasons to travel in December is that you can enjoy some of your favorite destinations without summer crowds. These next few destinations are unique in their own way and make for a delightful December getaway.

• Location : North Pole, AK
• Why Visit In December : Visiting the North Pole, Alaska in December is just about the most charming little town you can imagine - for obvious reasons. Even if you are on the naughty list there is plenty of time to rectify that.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This North Pole cabin retreat is pretty magical with moose grazing in the yard, an Aurora Borealis as your night light, and the Christmas Spirit tucking you in at night.

• Location : South Padre Island, TX
• Why Visit In December : If you are looking for a nice winter beach getaway visiting South Padre Island in December is fantastic because the ocean off the coast rarely dips below 70 degrees. Combine that with comfortable air temps in the 70s and you have a magic combination that feels pretty amazing for a winter getaway.
• Where To Stay Nearby : A beachfront condo is a nice affordable way to enjoy South Padre Island. At less than the cost of a mid-priced hotel, you and your family can enjoy this light-filled two-bedroom spot right on the beach.

• Location : Sedona, AZ
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Sedona, Arizona in December is great if you like a nice quiet weekend or a longer vacation. With fewer tourists taking all the best restaurants, accommodations, and parking spots, you can have this lovely city practically all to yourself.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This beautiful villa overlooking the red rocks of Sedona is a fantastic romantic getaway for two. Incredible views of Chimney Rock, Doe Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and Coffee Pot Rock.

If you enjoy the outdoors and are looking for some of the best places to travel in December in the USA with stunning views and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors these next couple of destinations should be on your trip list.

• Location : Lake Placid, NY
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Lake Placid, New York in December is a festive and active time of year. With holiday celebrations and numerous reasons to get outside and play, this picturesque town is filled with the holiday spirit and a sense of adventure.
• Where To Stay Nearby : Treat yourself to a Lake Placid getaway to remember at this luxury lodge at the foot of Cobble Mountain within a block from Mirror Lake.

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• Location : Grand County, UT
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Arches National Park in December gives you a unique perspective that relatively few of us ever experience. This alien landscape is so quiet and calm after a winter dusting of snow it is easy to imagine you are on another planet.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The Moab Pearl Ecolodge is a quiet oasis under the stars only a short distance from Moab and Arches National Park.

December is a festive time of year, but there are certain places in the US that really take holiday celebrations to a whole new level. Here are a couple of the best places to travel in December in the USA to celebrate the holidays.

• Location : Bethlehem, PA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in December is a special time of year with holiday lights, Christmas celebrations, and good cheer. A variety of Christian denominations have their day around the holidays including Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Protestant, and Ethiopian denominations as they pass through the city and into Shepherds' Fields.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This delightful modern farmhouse in Bethlehem is a quiet getaway in Christmas City.

• Location : Leavenworth, WA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Leavenworth, Washington in December is truly a magical experience with each and every inch of the town lit up with holiday lights. An extra special way to visit Leavenworth in December is to take the Leavenworth Snow Train from Seattle. It is a four-hour ride each way with an extra three hours given in Leavenworth itself.
• Where To Stay Nearby : If you are staying in Leavenworth itself, this beautiful riverfront home is a fantastic way to go. The scenic Wenatchee River is right out your back door and you are only a few minutes from all the action in town.

We’ve all heard about the top spots in the US for wintertime getaways like ski lodges in Vail, or heading to Key West for a beach getaway, but there are plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. The next few destinations you may not be as familiar with, but they are just as spectacular as those you are used to enjoying.

• Location : East Burke, VT
• Why Visit In December : Visiting East Burke, Vermont in December is the perfect getaway for ski enthusiasts. Burke Mountain is a picturesque spot for skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, sledding, and hiking.
• Where To Stay Nearby : This beautiful modern chalet in the mountains is the perfect getaway for a family who loves wintertime activities. Easy access to skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, snowmobile trails, and biking on Kingdom Trails.

• Location : Broken Bow, OK
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Broken Bow in December has a whole new vibe than a summer vacation. Sure, you still have some of the most amazing cabins in the country, but lighting that winter bonfire while sipping a local brew, or sitting in the hot tub as steam rises all around you creates a whole new kind of magic.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The Rowdy Beaver is a luxury cabin surrounded by forest and mountain views. Even though the name sounds like a bros weekend getaway, it is perfect for any occasion with room for eight guests.

• Location : Solvang, CA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Solvang, California in December will treat you to holiday parades, tree lighting ceremonies, a Santa's Village, and even a city-wide hunt for Solvang Nisse - a group of gnomes hidden throughout downtown which reward you with prizes when you find them.
• Where To Stay Nearby : In the heart of Solvang's Danish village is this charming three-bedroom home that fits in perfectly with the vibe of the town.

• Location : Port Townsend, WA
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Port Townsend, Washington in December for a family vacation is a fun time to celebrate the holidays. Particularly fun for kids (and us big kids too) is the Annual Uptown Gingerbread Contest at the Port Townsend Library - build your gingerbread house as tall and as elaborate as you desire to win prizes in five different categories.
• Where To Stay Nearby : The baby-blue Ferry Boat House is a wonderfully restored 1880s Victorian home on Port Townsend Bay which gives you a lovely view of the passing ferry boats as they enter the harbor.

• Location : Galena, IL
• Why Visit In December : Visiting Galena, Illinois in December is a time of year when you can enjoy plenty of winter activities. One of our favorites is a candlelight hike through Casper Bluff Preserve. Of, course the historic Main Street Christmas celebration is especially wonderful too. They even go all out with holiday fireworks displays at the beginning of the month when Holiday Fire in the Sky lights up the town with excitement and good cheer.
• Where To Stay Nearby : One of the best things about Galena is its abundance of charming Bed and Breakfasts. The 1842 Federal House is one such B&B you don't want to miss.

When it comes to winter travel some of us would rather hole up in a cozy cabin by the fireplace, others are looking for adventures. No matter what your ideal December vacation looks like we hope you have discovered a few new destinations that you are excited about visiting. If you have any other destinations that you’ve fallen in love with please share them with a comment so we can add them to our best places to visit in the U.S. in December list.

It’s never too early to start planning your next summer getaway too. Here are some of our favorite destinations to visit in July so you can get an early start on a fun summer trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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20 Best Places to Visit in December, According to Travel Experts

Check out these top destinations for a winter wonderland or warm-weather retreat.

Holiday tourism is hot . Christmas markets, Santa-themed attractions, hotels that give off hygge vibes, light shows and festivals are popping up everywhere. In fact, according to a new report by PricewaterhouseCoopers , 47% of Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, and travel-related spending is expected to increase 12% over last year.

We plowed through a blizzard of options to land on these holiday-inspired places to visit in December, and then we added a couple of beachy, warm-weather spots in case that's more your vibe. Our picks are truly next level: Some long weekend locales will blow your kids' minds and cement their belief in Santa, while others are cozy couple's retreats where you can act out your Hallmark movie fantasies. A few even perfectly align with the brilliant trend of vacationing somewhere over the holidays rather than exchanging presents.

While tickets and rooms are still widely available now, it's likely that many of these places will sell out, so dash off to request your PTO!

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego

Ice skating with an ocean view? Not only is it a thing, it's an epic holiday tradition at Hotel del Coronado, winner of a 2022 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. Skating by the Sea returns to the historic property from November 17 to January 7. After your 90-minute skating sesh, reserve seating with firepits (mmm, s'mores) at the Frostbite Lounge. Other holiday happenings at The Del include a light show and beachside igloos.

Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Highlands, North Carolina

Give yourself an early holiday present — the gift of a couple's or girlfriend's getaway to Old Edwards Inn & Spa. The adults-only destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains oozes cozy vibes. For a special deal, book its Comfort & Joy package, available Sunday to Thursday, November 1-17 and November 28-December 15.

It includes two nights of lodging, a three-course dinner for two and two 50-minute spa treatments. Lodging options range from an intimate historic room to a two-bedroom suite (perfection for the girls' trip).

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Santa Barbara, California

Not only does Santa Barbara get decked out for the holidays, it's also whale-watching season! Migrating Pacific gray whales pass through the Santa Barbara Channel as they head back to Baja California. Visitors can spot them on one of the town's many whale-watching tours. Fortunately, you won't feel too frosty on the boat or at the city's 37th Annual Parade of Lights on December 10.

Stay at The Steward , an all-suite property offering guests a secret hideaway tucked between the ocean and mountains on California's idyllic central coast. Not only does it boast a heated outdoor pool and sweet porch swings, but the hotel also offers many sustainable touches like solar-powered lights and water-filling stations.

Fort Worth Stockyards, Fort Worth, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the Christmas celebrations. In its 22nd year, Christmas in the Stockyards on December 3 spreads cheer with a massive ice skating rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, strolling carolers and a holiday parade. Even if you can't make it that day, most of the activities (minus the parade) are available throughout the rest of the season. Stay at the nearby Hotel Drover , which will also be decked out for the holidays.

Nashville, Tennessee

The holiday season really makes the Music City sing. Both the iconic Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry feature festive concerts with superstar performers like LeAnn Rimes, Amy Grant and Vince Gill. As you explore Nashville's neighborhoods, one million twinkling lights can't help but put you in the holiday spirit.

If you're bringing the kids, stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort , home to an elaborate Polar Express-themed ICE! attraction where kids can zoom down frozen slides. For a more grown-up adventure, stay at the Bobby Hotel. After a show, indulge in warm craft cocktails at the Rooftop Lounge where you can rent a heated igloo while taking in an incredible view of downtown Nashville from 14 stories up.

Salt Lake City, Utah

With spectacular mountain views at every turn, Salt Lake City wows winter sports enthusiasts and foodies alike and has incredible seasonal events to boot. Throughout December, visitors can stop by the holiday art market at Alta Ski Resort , hop on a full moon lift ride at Snowbird or take a self-guided tour of the ten striking murals by some of Salt Lake’s most renowned local artists.

Restaurants like downtown's SLC Eatery and White Horse have imaginative menus. Stay nearby at Le Méridien or Element downtown. "The two hotels are under one roof and we enjoyed them both," says a Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited. "The Element is more kid-friendly and includes free breakfast while Le Méridien is high-end and has a rooftop bar."

Biddeford, Maine

A hidden gem about a half hour south of Portland, Biddeford's downtown gives off Hallmark movie vibes. Come for the annual Holiday Festival on December 1, which includes a tree and menorah lighting, caroling and even free desserts prepared by the local cultural center. Make it a weekend with a stay at The Lincoln Hotel , which fills its lobby with Christmas trees and has gas fireplaces in every room. Don't forget to stop for lunch at the Palace Diner in a vintage railcar and the oldest diner in Maine.

Tucked away in the Eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is known for its magnificent beaches and easygoing atmosphere. With 33 beaches, most boasting soft, white sand, it's an undeniable paradise in December. From fun family activities like glass floor boat rides to romantic beachside dinners, the island has something for everyone.

Visitors can stay at the Frangipani Beach Resort , a luxury boutique resort set in the middle of Meads Bay, one of Anguilla’s most renowned beaches. Featuring 23 rooms and suites, travelers can take advantage of the plentiful amenities like beach and poolside service and complimentary water sports such as tubing and kayaking.

Tulum, Mexico

There’s more to Mexico than burritos and mojitos. Tulum's legendary ruins are a historic wonder and the third-most visited site in Mexico. What's more, Tulum’s breathtaking flora and fauna make it a prime destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Stay at an all-inclusive beach resort that appeals to all ages: the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort . With eight pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa and an exclusive Family Zone, it has everything you need to be a home away from home. A Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited with her family said, "The resort is beautiful and there are nice nightlife things for parents to do while the kids are in the kids club."

Snowflake Lane, Bellevue, Washington

Pick up gifts for everyone on your list and see a magical nighttime parade all in one place! That's multi-tasking at its finest. Every night from November 24 to December 24, a holiday parade with nearly 200 performers, floats and faux snow transforms this shopping and entertainment mecca near Seattle into a veritable winter wonderland. You can even stay overnight in the heart of the festivities at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue , which has an indoor pool and an amazing breakfast buffet.

Sydney, Australia

With summer heating up in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the perfect month to take a trip down under. For travelers who enjoy nature and wildlife, take an immersive walking tour with knowledgeable, indigenous guides to explore the city’s living world.

During your trek, visitors might get a glimpse of cute koalas sitting in treetops, spot a hopping kangaroo or experience other unforgettable creature encounters. For those who’d rather relax, the city has plenty of brilliant beaches to lounge on and sunbathe.

Beyond nature, Sydney is teeming with iconic sights and cultural attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, which offers kids' programming throughout the month.

Charleston Place, South Carolina

Visions of sugar plum fairies will be dancing in your kids' heads if you stay at the Charleston Place, which is embracing the Nutcracker as its holiday decor and programming theme for 2023. To say that the hotel goes all out for Christmas is an understatement: Decorations include more than 100 wreaths, 139 trees (including one that's 41 feet tall) and 10,000 ornaments. Local ballet companies even put on mini performances in the lobby. Sweet dreams are practically guaranteed.

Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Oh, what fun it is to ride at Hersheypark! Families can take a spin on select rides and attractions, including the newest coaster, at Christmas Candylane on select dates from November 10 to January. Santa and his nine reindeer also make special appearances at the park. Make it a weekend by staying at Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge , which also have a lineup of holiday-themed activities. Many involve chocolate, of course!

The Logan Hotel, Philadelphia

Celebrating the holidays in Philly? Book a suite that's already decked out for the season. The Logan Hotel's Holiday Lodge Suite will get you in the spirit with its twinkling lights, seasonal bedding and fully decorated tree. Room service is also included — a cart with hot chocolate and eggnog is rolled right into your suite, so your family can customize their own beverages. While you're in town, be sure to check out the Reading Terminal Market and the Christmas Light Show at Macy's.

Alexandria, Virginia

This historic town just outside of Washington, D.C. packs in the festivities all month long. It'll be tough deciding when to go — a Holiday Boat Parade of Lights takes place on December 2, while Christmas Illuminations with fireworks at George Washington's Mount Vernon light up the skies on December 15 and 16. Stay at a hotel in the Old Town area so you'll be near many locally owned shops and restaurants. The Alexandrian boasts a great location and an indoor pool.

It's never a bad time to visit Belize, but escaping the bustle of the holiday season for a place with pristine jungles, rainforests and exhilarating adventures sounds like a dream. Stay at Cayo Espanto , a private island that's an enchanting escape. With villas equipped with a personal butler, private dock area and customized meals, guests won’t soon forget the experience. To get in the holiday spirit, the resort even offers a holiday photoshoot for couples or families. Say, cheese!

Little America Hotel North Pole Experience, Flagstaff, Arizona

If it's possible to get your kids even more hyped for the holidays, the North Pole Experience will do it. The attraction transports families through a "magical portal" to the North Pole where they'll feast their eyes on Santa's Workshop, a Toy Hall of Fame, the North Pole mailroom and even the famous sleigh. It's about an hour and forty minutes of pure magic! Stay at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, where the magical portal opens (via trolley service) for the journey "up North" on select days from November 17 to December 24.

Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

If you're not sure what to get the kids for the holidays this year, may we suggest a trip to Disney? Instead of spending money on more stuff, put it toward a trip over the holidays where you can make lots of memories.

Float the idea by the kids to see if they're on board, and, if it's a go, start planning your trip, including tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (shown), which runs through December 22. Other holiday must-sees including the gingerbread display (and cookies to purchase!) at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and the Epcot International Festival of Lights (running through December 30.)

Brussels, Belgium

European holiday markets are a bucket-list experience — and wouldn't it be marvelous to stop at several without schlepping your luggage (and souvenirs!) all around? The solution: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is launching a luxury river cruise from Brussels that includes stops at five holiday markets, plus chocolate tastings, cave tours and more. The boutique cruise line also offers options starting in Germany and Switzerland.

Great Wolf Lodge

This indoor waterpark chain with 20+ locations goes big for the holidays with storytimes, nightly snowfalls, crafts, Santa visits and decorations galore. The location in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania recently opened stylish woodland villas — a first for the brand and a boon for mult-gen families.

The villas can sleep 8 to 20 guests and have bunk-bed rooms for kids. Other thoughtful touches include hooks in the bathroom to hang wet bathing suits and outdoor tables that double as tic-tac-toe boards. The table idea is the brainchild of designer Nate Berkus, who masterminded the outdoor space.

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8 Cozy Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC

By Juliet Izon and Mark Ellwood

New York City during the holidays is aglitter with mesmerizing window displays and decor, some of the country’s best seasonal dance and theater shows, and—as anyone who lives here is well aware—lots (and lots) of tourists. As the crowds descend upon Rockefeller Center to see the Christmas tree or swarm Union Square for their holiday shopping, we don’t blame New Yorkers for pushing aside visions of sugar plums to make room for dreams of getting out of town until after the New Year.

Luckily, NYC is well-situated for many a winter weekend getaway , whether you’re craving snow-filled paradises for winter sports , charming Connecticut hamlets, or wellness meccas in western Massachusetts. We’ve combed the entire radius surrounding the Big Apple to find the absolute top-notch spots that are perfect for a quick trip away from the hustle and bustle. Just make sure you have your snow boots, flannels, and … a car. Remember those?

Read on for eight of the best cozy winter weekend getaways from New York City.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lake Placid, New York

As a two-time home to the Winter Olympics (in 1932 and 1980), it’s hard to argue that Lake Placid isn’t the East Coast champion for snow sports. And, with the Lake Placid Olympic Center newly remodeled and reopened, this winter is an especially auspicious time to visit. Activities at the facilities include indoor and outdoor ice skating, speed skating sessions, as well as events like the Adirondack Winter Invitational for college hockey players.

But, the Center is far from the only winter sports hub in town here. The nearby Whiteface Mountain has over 90 trails spanning 25 miles and covering three peaks and is especially notable for boasting the greatest vertical drop on the East Coast. And, if that’s not enough for adrenaline junkies, you can also rocket down tracks at the Lake Placid Bobsled Experience or (in warmer months) tackle the longest mountain coaster in the USA, the heart-pumping Cliffside Coaster . After you’ve had your fill of snow and ice, you can stroll Main Street to pick up new ski gear or stock up on gorgeously scented candles and lotions from Pure Placid . We love the Mount Marcy , scented with citrus, basil, and sandalwood.

A straight shot up I-87 followed by a 40-mile stretch on NY 73W, Lake Placid is about a five-hour drive north of New York City. If you're looking to stretch your legs along the way, Saratoga Springs is an excellent stopping point: grab a hearty brunch of breakfast sandwiches stuffed with smoked applewood bacon at The Merc before you finish your drive.

Where to stay : There are few places more magical in winter than Lake Placid Lodge , a quintessential Adirondack property that features rooms with large stone fireplaces, beds made out of tree branches, and stunning views of the namesake lake. For even more privacy, you can also book one of the secluded, cozy cabins just a short walk from the main lodge. Winter activities on-site include ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snow bonfires with s’mores. Nearby Whiteface Lodge is ideal for families, thanks to year-round indoor and outdoor pools, a surround-sound movie theater, a family game room, and nightly campfires.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Most people consider this seaside getaway a summer-only destination, but Kennebunkport ’s distinct charm reveals itself when the weather hardens and coastal Maine’s rugged beauty comes sharply into focus. Plus, you can head inland for spectacular cross-country skiing around the town. There are more than 20 miles of trails on the 600 acres at Harris Farm , for example, a working dairy farm that opens up its lands to outdoorsy types each winter. Don’t discount a walk on the beach either, or even a surf in the icy waters when thick winter swells fed by nor’easters beckon dedicated surfers.

It’s about a five-hour drive from NYC, mostly along I-95, but you can–and should–break up the trip with a stop in Seabrook, New Hampshire for steamed whole lobsters at Brown’s Lobster Pound .

Where to stay : The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel is the best perch year-round: as the name implies, it’s situated on the harborside of the Kennebunk River and is just steps from the town’s cute and quirky shops. In nearby Kennebunk, The Grand Hotel , an elegant, three-story building set atop Chase Hill, includes views of bustling Dock Square in the center of town. Don’t miss the on-site art gallery and its rotating selection of paintings made both by local and international artists. And those looking for both an elevated and pampering experience should make a beeline for White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection . The historic inn and private cottages feature details like fresh flowers and Prima Fleur toiletries, while the larger suites boast deep soaking tubs and—the ultimate winter indulgence—gas fireplaces.

Litchfield County, Connecticut

Gilmore Girls fans will no doubt recognize this bucolic area of Connecticut—the fictional town of Star’s Hollow was based on real-life Washington Depot. But that Rockwellian vibe wasn’t just movie magic: Many of the small hamlets here seem almost too idyllic to be real, and all are worth exploring. Imbued with that quintessential New England feel, the different towns pride themselves on their specialties. Hit up New Preston for home furnishings (we love J. Seitz & Co. ); Kent for its art galleries like Kenise Barnes Fine Art and Ober Gallery ; and tiny Bantam for its collection of beloved Arethusa dining spots. Plan a dinner at Arethusa al tavolo (the menu changes frequently, but do order the parsnip-date soup if you can). Whatever you do, save room for Arethusa Farm Dairy ’s rightfully famous ice cream.

Since this is New England , options for winter sports abound, including Mohawk Mountain for skiing and tubing, and the 400-plus acre Black Rock State Park for cross-country skiing. Afterward, pop into Arethusa a Mano to refuel with coffee and pastries.

This tranquil stretch of Connecticut can be reached in approximately two-and-a-half hours from New York City. Take the Hutchinson River Parkway to I-684 followed by Route 7, which meanders through much of the county. Litchfield encompasses much of the northwestern part of the state, where it borders New York.

Where to stay : The most sought-after property in the region is the Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection , a spectacular English country house featuring rooms with four-poster beds and oriental rugs. (The entire property was given a facelift a few years back by celebrated interior designer Celerie Kemble .) And while its spa has historically been one of the most beloved on the East Coast, the hotel’s partnership with THE WELL has upped the wow factor and pampering significantly (we love the signature Integrated Detox treatment). But, if you’ve ever wanted to sleep in a helicopter hangar or a treehouse, make sure to visit the wacky, but luxurious cottages at Winvian Farm . The restaurant is also worth a trip, alone: Almost all the food served in the 18th-century dining room is grown in one of three on-site greenhouses or harvested from the property’s three acres of organic gardens.

Rhinebeck, New York

Few upstate New York locales are as postcard-perfect as Rhinebeck: The Hudson Valley town’s main streets are lined with spectacular home design stores, unique boutiques selling everything from children’s toys to craft beer, and, most notably, a wealth of destination-worthy restaurants. Book a table at The Amsterdam for the best locally sourced, New American food in the Hudson Valley; Bia for innovative takes on Irish (double your order of the brown bread, trust us); and Cinnamon for Indian dishes like a murgh shahi korma as elevated and nuanced as anything you’d find in Manhattan. Music lovers will also appreciate the proximity to Bard College , home of the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts . Housed in a stunning building designed by starchitect Frank Gehry, it's worth checking out one of the many stellar classical performances.

This charming hamlet in Dutchess County is about a two-hour drive from New York City. The prettiest route up is via the winding Taconic State Parkway; don’t skip the Taste NY Market at Todd Hill as you pass through Poughkeepsie. Situated in the middle of the parkway, it’s hard to miss, all the better for stocking up on an excellent array of New York-made goods like fresh apple cider, yogurts, and jams.

Where to stay : Rhinebeck boasts the oldest continually operating inn in the country, The Beekman Arms . The property’s front lawn was actually a training ground for the Fourth Regiment of the Continental Army, who performed drills on the expansive space in preparation for the American Revolution. The historic rooms here (some are in the original inn building from 1766) are cozy with thick quilts and four-poster beds, and—fun fact—all also boast a decanter of sherry. For something more modern, check out Mirbeau Inn & Spa , a wellness-focused hotel housed in a building inspired by a classic French château. Even if you don’t book a room here, it’s worth checking out the spa, whose wide array of services includes mineral baths, massages, and seasonal treatments like body scrubs with sugar and orange peel to ward off dry winter skin.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

This stretch of lakes and historic towns may be most famous for its plethora of summertime activities, but its location also lends itself to family-friendly skiing and other wintertime pursuits. There are over 185 trails for skiing, sledding, and tubing in the area, at spots like Camelback Mountain (home to America’s largest snow-tubing park); or Blue Mountain Resort, which has Pennsylvania’s highest vertical drop of 1,082 feet, and 40 trails of varying difficulty to please both skiers and snowboarders. But if you prefer less rigorous outdoor activities, The Poconos has you covered: Book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Happy Trails Stables or an exhilarating dog sled tour with Arctic Paws . Or skip all the activities and simply stroll through the lovely Victorian homes converted to shops and galleries in the quaint town of Jim Thorpe .

This famed resort region is about two-and-a-half hours from New York City, reached via I-80W. You can make a pitstop at the Delaware Water Gap , right on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania—it has over 100 miles of scenic roadways.

Where to stay : The Lodge at Woodloch is especially cozy this time of year; winter spa treatments like the seasonal body polish with coffee soothes dry skin in need of hydration. But if you want to lean fully into the season, make sure to sample the resort’s Snow Room for a chilly blast that’s not for the faint-hearted. A more family-friendly option is Skytop Lodge , a member of the Historic Hotels of America nestled in 5,500 acres of forest. Winter activities include ice fishing, tubing, and snowshoeing.

Lower Catskills, New York

The southern Catskills are far less rural than its northern reaches, and towns like Andes and Phoenicia embody a newfound artsy edge via galleries and hip restaurants—making them particularly appealing to New York City travelers.

Andes is notable for its tightly edited collection of boutiques, including the wondrous mix of antiques and unique finds at The Tin Horn and vintage duds with a Catskills appeal at Clementine Vintage Clothing . The area is home to numerous outdoorsy pursuits, too, whether that’s the slopes of Hunter Mountain a few miles back along Route 28, or within Catskill Park's 700,000-plus acres—much of which is prime territory for snowmobiling. When you get peckish, swing by Wayside Cider , a brewhouse and restaurant that relishes in being the town’s social center on weekends.

This area is just under a three-hour drive from New York, and taking I-87 to Route 28 gives way to spectacular countryside views for miles. Plan a lunchtime arrival so you have an excuse to order the patty melt on rye at the bustling Phoenicia Diner .

Where to stay : Four artists from Brooklyn commandeered the 1940s-era motel in Phoenicia back in 2013 and rebooted it as The Graham & Co . Some of the 20 mod-rustic rooms designed with reclaimed wood and cowhide rugs have kitchenettes for a DIY-meal option. One of the newer properties in the area is also one of the chicest. Piaule Catskill brands itself as a “landscape hotel”: modern, private cabins tucked into the woods, with plenty of wellness experiences like reiki sessions, forest bathing, and massages.

Woodstock, Vermont

Centered on an English town green that’s surrounded by whitewashed houses, this manicured settlement is even prettier when blanketed in a few inches of pristine snow. Center and Elm Streets are lined with independent shops and restaurants, like the Vermont Eclectic Company , which sells T-shirts with graphic decals, all designed by Vermont-based artists (take a photo with the giant fiberglass chicken on the shop floor for the ‘gram). Also nearby is FH Gillingham & Sons , an enormous old-school general store stocked with plenty of Vermont’s finest elixir, maple syrup. And don’t miss Farmhouse Pottery on the outskirts of town—located in a former Bible bindery, the space sells everything from classic pie dishes to espresso cups and offers wheel workshops and clay dates for crafty types.

It’s less than a five-hour drive from New York to this charming southern Vermont town, via I-91 through Connecticut and the Berkshires . Detour to Brattleboro as you drive north for a quick photo pitstop: The picturesque town is home to the wooden 19th century Creamery Bridge , listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Where to stay : There is nowhere more iconic (or photogenic) in town than the famed, white clapboard Woodstock Inn & Resort . Known as “Vermont’s Most Beautiful Address,” experiences at the hotel range from a 10,000 square-foot LEED-certified spa; a seasonally open 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.; and a partnership with New England Falconry for up-close sessions with birds of prey. Other top boltholes include Lincoln Inn & Restaurant at The Covered Bridge , which is nestled on a six-acre parcel of land and has half a dozen cozy rooms. Or, for the ultimate luxury stay, nearby Twin Farms provides easy access to private ski slopes, ice fishing, and fat-tire biking trails, plus uniquely designed cottages decorated with museum-quality art.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Though the area might be justifiably known for its superb leaf-peeping each fall, an arguably better time to visit is winter when the snow-covered hills turn into some of the best ski slopes in Massachusetts. Start by conquering the huge range of terrain at Catamount Mountain Resort , ideal for families with members of varying abilities. Butternut is another family-friendly, must-ski hub that offers ski and snowboard lessons for kids ages four and up, while there are 45 different runs (25 lit for night skiing) at Jiminy Peak in the Taconic Mountains. Not a downhill skier? No worries: Set out for Canterbury Farms ’ meditative cross-country ski trails instead.

The Berkshires are also home to two of the region’s most lauded art museums: The Clark and MASS MoCA . The former, located in the art-centric hub of Williamstown (home to the famed Williamstown Theatre Festival , as well), carries an impressive collection of Renaissance to early 20th-century European and American paintings; at the latter, more modern and contemporary offerings are on view.

The most picturesque route for the drive up to western Massachusetts (around three hours) is via the Taconic Parkway, which slices through the Eastern edge of New York before taking you across state lines into Massachusetts’ Berkshires. One of the prettiest places to stretch your legs en route is Millbrook, home to rolling farms and the excellent Millbrook Antique Mall . Grab smoked salmon BLTs to go at Babette’s Kitchen after snagging a rare book or vintage earrings.

Where to stay : For an ultra-luxe wellness retreat, look into Miraval which opened its third property near Lenox three years ago. The sprawling campus is anchored by an enormous spa, of course, but the food is another lure: The all-inclusive rates allow you to graze its mindful eating menu on a whim, whether that’s made-to-order smoothies at breakfast or lobster ravioli at dinner. Day passes are available and allow guests access to all the wellness classes and spa, and also include meals. A quirkier option nearby is 33 Main , an eight-room inn owned and operated by local homeware designer Annie Selke. Cannily, Selke intended it to be as much a showroom as a hotel—many of the rooms’ items (sheets, towels, rugs) are available for purchase.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 30 top romantic winter getaways.

From winter wonderlands to tropical retreats, these vacations won't disappoint.

(Getty Images) |

These romantic resorts, tours and destinations will set your love on fire.

Bergen, Norway

(Courtesy of Vista Verde Ranch) |

Vista Verde Ranch: Clark, Colorado

Amalfi Coast, Italy

St. Martin – St. Maarten

(Courtesy of the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora) |

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Courtesy of Sandals South Coast |

Sandals South Coast: White House, Jamaica

Tuscany, Italy

Courtesy of Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma |

Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma: Negril, Jamaica

Dubrovnik, Croatia

North Lake Tahoe, Nevada

(Courtesy of the Frangipani Beach Resort) |

Frangipani Beach Resort: Meads Bay, Anguilla

Napa Valley, California

Platinum Coast, Barbados

Courtesy of Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Cancun |

Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Cancun: Cancun, Mexico

(Courtesy of Red Reflet Guest Ranch) |

Red Reflet Guest Ranch: Ten Sleep, Wyoming

Kauai, Hawaii

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Santorini, Greece

Dana Point, California

(Courtesy of Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour) |

Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour: St. Kitts

Koh Tao, Thailand

(Courtesy of Hotel Le Toiny) |

Hotel Le Toiny: Anse de Toiny, St. Barts

Loire Valley, France

The Landings Resort & Spa: Gros Islet, St. Lucia

Tahiti, French Polynesia

Verona, Italy

(Courtesy of the Hotel Villa Honegg) |

Hotel Villa Honegg: Ennetbürgen, Switzerland

Prague, Czech Republic

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25 of the Best Winter Getaways to Start Planning Now

When the weather outside is frightful, turn to one of these escapes.

Contrary to popular belief, winter is actually one of the best times to travel. If nothing sounds better to you than cozying up next to a fireplace with a warm cup of hot chocolate in hand, then traveling to Stowe, Vermont; Traverse City, Michigan; or Breckenridge, Colorado, for your very own winter wonderland might sound perfect to you.

But if the sound of snow gently falling to the ground doesn't exactly get your heart racing as much as the sound of fresh ocean water hitting the shore while you bask in the sun does, then fear not.

Whether it's a romantic couples' resort you can book on a budget , a solo retreat , a restorative girls' weekend , a quick affordable excursion , an old-fashioned road trip , or something for the whole family , a winter vacation will help you forget all about the cold...or inspire you to embrace it. Depending on whether it’s December, January, or February, a winter getaway can either celebrate all you accomplished in the previous year, serve as the perfect way to kick off your new year, or celebrate time with a loved one.

Regardless of which month your winter trip is for, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to indulge in the perfect winter getaway—from calm stretches of sand in Mexico to under-the-radar towns in the Northeast—as well as suggestions for what to eat, see, and do in each place.

Savannah, Georgia

If you're looking for a place with no shortage of history, beauty, and Southern charm, you won't do better than Savannah.

To start your trip on the right foot, book a room at the Perry Lane Hotel , which offers contemporary luxury with loads of Instagram-ready areas, including a chic rooftop bar (even if you're not staying at the property, you can visit the Peregrin for its tasty cocktails and stunning city views). In the morning, grab a complimentary glass of champagne and some of the hotel's bicycles, and head over to nearby Chippewa Square, where Forrest Gump's iconic bench scenes were filmed. (The hotel offers free car service though, if that's more your speed.)

If you're in town on a Saturday, walk over to Forsyth Park , a gorgeous 30-acre expanse, where you'll find Forsyth Farmers’ Market —along with, ancient, moss-draped oak trees and lots of old mansions. From there, make your way to The Olde Pinke House for lunch (don't skip the grits!), followed by a visit to the Telfair Museum , the oldest public art museum in the Southeast. After, take a scenic stroll along Savannah's famous River Street, leaving plenty of time for admiring the cobblestone streets and historic buildings, as well as stopping in the delightful stores.

End the eve with dinner at Cotton & Rye (or Husk , if you can manage to snag a reservation), followed by a nightcap back at Wayward , plus a friendly game of Skee-Ball at the eclectic bar.

Big Sky, Montana

Of course the main star of Big Sky is skiing, but it's packed with alternatives like dogsledding, snowmobiling, fly-fishing, and horseback riding.

Consider staying at Big Sky Resort , which offers a number of accommodations, including two slope-side hotels: the Huntley Lodge and the Summit Hotel. Guests can ride the Ramcharger 8 chairlift, the first eight-seat chairlift in North America, to dinner at Everett’s 8800 .

Another fun idea: the Sleigh Ride Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch . Tourists are transported on horse-drawn carriages to a remote cabin for a prime rib dinner served in a room illuminated by kerosene lanterns.

Stowe, Vermont

Not headed to the Alps or Aspen this year? Here’s the next best thing: Stowe, Vermont. The quaint New England town is best known for its skiing ( Stowe Mountain Resort alone has 485 skiable acres and 116 trails), but for non-skiiers, there are plenty of other powdery pursuits: snowshoe tours, dogsledding, ice-skating, ice-fishing, and sleigh rides, to name a few.

When you need to refuel, take the Gondola SkyRide to the Cliff House at the top of Mount Mansfield—Vermont’s highest mountain—for award-winning American cuisine with a view. For something a bit sweeter, head to local favorite Stowe Bee Bakery & Café for everything from ooey gooey chocolate chip cookies to strawberry and cream cinnamon buns to maple pecan upside cakes to churro popovers. (Before you leave town, make sure to stock up on maple syrup, candy, popcorn, and more at Stowe Maple Products .)

Need a break from the slopes? Take a day trip to Burlington, which is just under 40 miles away. While you’re there, make sure to set aside some time to stroll through the Church Street Marketplace , a four-block concourse that’s home to more than 100 shops and restaurants, including Crow Bookshop , Lake Champlain Chocolates , and Frog Hollow , an art gallery featuring Vermont artists. On your way back to Stowe, you may also want to stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, which offers guided tours of the ice-cream-making process.

For lodging, you can’t beat the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge , which was founded by the by the Von Trapps (of Sound of Music fame) in 1950. In addition to family-friendly rooms and suites, the refurbished hotel offers a variety of activities for all ages and several dining options.

Miami, Florida

The 305 is called "the Magic City" for a reason: As soon as you step off the plane, you can feel the magic in this city's breezy, tropical air. Whether you want an urban oasis on the beach, delicious Latin-American inspired food, or to simply party the night away, Miami has something for everyone, especially if you're looking to escape a winter chill.

Days in Miami can easily fly by with activities like relaxing on South Beach, shopping at Lincoln Road, or taking photos of the graffiti walls and art galleries of Wynwood. In between all that sightseeing, hot spot restaurants like Kyu for Asian barbecue or La Mar 's Peruvian fare are transforming the city's culinary scene with inventive fare. And if you're in search of the best Cuban sandwich in the city, make your way over to Little Havana to Sanguich de Miami .

Travelers looking for affordable yet stylish options near all the action can book at boutique hotels like the Kimpton Surfcomber or Hyatt's The Confidante . And if you're looking for relaxation and luxury, treat yourself to a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne . Located on a barrier island far enough from downtown's hustle and bustle to feel like a true getaway (yet a quick car ride away from South Beach), the luxurious resort offers a private beach, spacious suites with ocean views, and multiple restaurants and bars. And if you end up here, do yourself a favor: Indulge in a hot stone massage and the spa's hot tubs before relaxing in the adults-only tranquility pool.

Nashville, Tennessee

Escape the cold with a weekend getaway to Music City, where you can heat up at honky-tonks galore, or if the rowdy bar scene of Broadway isn't your thing, stick to shopping strolls along the hip Gulch district after grabbing lunch at Peg Leg Porker . Take in a tiki drink at Pearl Diver , a tropical oasis that'll make you forget all about winter, or a casual meal of hot chicken at Hattie B's (pro tip: the one 8th Avenue tends to have shorter lines). Stay at Bobby Hotel , just minutes from the famed Printer’s Alley bars of downtown. Then enjoy a cozy beverage in a festive igloo on their rooftop before indulging in some nearby burlesque at Skull's Rainbow Room . And don't miss a stop at Draper James , Reese Witherspoon's boutique that just oozes Southern charm, ya'll.

The French Caribbean island, known as the Isle of Flowers, boasts beautifully unspoiled beaches and 80 miles of hiking trails. Plus, it's a top spot for diving. Oh, and it happens to be the rum capital of the world, with free tastings offered at all 12 of the island’s distilleries.

Stay at La Suite de Villa , a centrally located five-star boutique hotel with private villas and suites. There’s also French Coco , which is situated on a lagoon.

If you're looking for a great deal, Airbnb has loads of options— many of which come with dreamy pools.

New York, New York

If you're more of a see-and-do kind of person, the city that (literally) never sleeps will make you forget all about the cold. Traveling at Christmastime? Of course, a visit to Rockefeller Center 's iconic Christmas tree is a must. Then, head to Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue, which are both nearby, to ooh and aah over some of the best Christmas window displays.

If it's not too frigid outside, take a stroll around Central Park and stop by the Women’s Rights Pioneers Monument (it's the park's first monument of real-life women), the Arthur Ross Pinetum (the area, located between 72nd to 102nd Street, includes 17 different species of pine trees), and the Bethesda Terrace Arcade, where you may even catch a performance by a local musician. Exit the park at 80th Street (on the East side) and you'll be at the start of Museum Mile, a mile-long stretch of Fifth Avenue, where many of the major museums are located, including the Met , the Guggenheim , and the Museum of the City of New York .

While Midtown is certainly convenient (we recommend the super-hip 1 Hotel Central Park ), if you're looking to experience a new neighborhood, stay at the Standard Hotel, East Village , which puts you in the heart of one of Manhattan's trendiest areas.

With nearly perfect temps year-round, Aruba is a spectacular place to visit anytime, but its warm, crystal blue waters provide an especially nice respite from the cold. For a relaxing (with a side of fun) beach vacation, stay at the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino , situated directly on the white Caribbean sands. If you didn't pack the kids, split time between water sports and the swim-up bar in the adults-only pool.

Or, for a downtime vibe, close to shopping and restaurants, consider the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino , which gives you access to their private, acclaimed flamingo beach, where you can—you guessed it—hang out with flamingos for the day (or just enjoy an afternoon reading in semi-seclusion).

If no trip for you is complete without a spa visit, the island's beachfront Ritz-Carlton boasts massages you can only get in Aruba, plus floats aplenty if your idea of relaxing is not leaving the serene pools. For dinner, don't miss the scenic and (beyond scrumptious) Casa Nonna —especially if you like burrata. And, if you haven't had your Italian fix by the second night, try Gianni's downtown, where a giant wheel of Parm is brought to you table-side to adorn your pasta.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore’s unique museums , including the American Visionary Art Museum , the Walter’s Art Museum , and Baltimore Museum of Art (which is home to the world's largest Matisse collection) are among the city's treasures.

Book lovers should make time to see one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the George Peabody Library .

Stay in Baltimore’s hidden gem, The Ivy Hotel . Located in a historic Mount Vernon mansion, it has 18 gorgeous guest rooms and suites, as well as a luxury spa. You can enjoy teatime (complete with sherry and scones!) in the exquisite parlor, in front of deco murals that beg to be instagrammed. And although you may be inclined to sleep in (the beds are divine) don't skip the French toast at the complimentary multi-course breakfast served at the hotel's restaurant, Magdalena . Or, the whiskey tasting at dinner, for that matter.

If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine and mezcal, try a night out at Clavel , which never disappoints.

The dry season is from mid-November through May, making it the perfect time to enjoy minimal rain and beautiful beach days amid a volcano-dotted landscape. For thrills, zipline through the rainforest or go horseback riding on a scenic trail.

Located in the Guanacaste region, on the northwest Pacific coast, stay at the Margaritaville Resort . For a laid-back experience, try the Occidental Grand Papagayo , an adults-only, all-inclusive in the Gulf of Papagayo.

Breckenridge, Colorado

A true ski-in, ski-out mountain town, Breckenridge , affectionately known as Breck, has a serious dose of high alpine adventure, natural beauty, and charm. With an abundance of slope-side lodging accommodations, ski-to-town trails, and the BreckConnect Gondola , getting around is seamless.

In January, check out the International Snow Sculpture Championships . More winter fun includes nightly Nordic Snowcat Adventures , and Cucumber Gulch wildlife preserve where you can take in tales of the forest over champagne with a pit stop for s’mores at a nearby cabin.

For lodging, try Residence Inn Breckenridge , steps away from the ski resort, and on the edge of the historic downtown, which is filled with more than 200 restaurants, taverns and boutiques.

Puerto Rico

Besides beaches with decadently warm water, the island has an abundance of cultural activities, including the Miramar Museum of Art and Design , which offers pink Instagram-approved walls. You can also take a walking tour of Old San Juan to visit historic monuments such as El Morro and Museo Castillo Serralles .

Rest your head at Hotel El Convento , Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort , Dorado Beach , or The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort , if you want to splurge. For those looking for a less traditional lodging experience, Puerto Rico also has more than 300 Airbnb listings .

Tasty dinner ideas include Santaella Restaurant , Chocobar Cortes , and Azucena.

Washington, D.C.

The vibrant neighborhoods, free historic attractions, critically acclaimed restaurants, and high-end shopping districts make Washington D.C. a must-visit weekend getaway destination.

All the Smithsonian's renowned museums have reopened, as well as the International Spy Museum and the National Museum of Women in the Arts and are great places to stay warm. The latter is situated near The Darcy on Rhode Island Avenue, which offers a quiet respite after a day of sightseeing.

If you're after the best food in town, Union Market is the culinary epicenter of the destination, featuring leading local artisans, restaurants, and shops. Then, skate off your lunch at Washington Harbour Ice Rink .

For an alternative vibe, stay at the Washington Marriott Georgetown , conveniently located near the city’s charming West End.

Or, we love the Wharf Intercontinental , which is located right on the festively decorated waterfront. Steps from the modern, luxury hotel, you can grab some s'mores from a picturesque Airstream and stroll through the energetic public spaces. Looking for something more substantial to eat than marshmallows? Dine under cozy heat lamps at the property's restaurant, Moon Rabbit , which offers an eclectic contemporary Vietnamese food menu.

Nassau, Bahamas

This tropical oasis is now home to Baha Mar , the newest integrated resort destination in the Bahamas. It comprises Grand Hyatt , SLS and Rosewood , as well as the largest casino in the Caribbean, the most expansive collection of Bahamian art in the world, a flagship spa, golf course, luxury shopping, and over 30 restaurants and bars. You can also spend the day deep-water fishing or snorkeling.

Maui, Hawaii

Not only is it whale-watching season, but there are plenty of flights from the West Coast that have midweek specials.

Consider booking the Kana’anapali Beach Hotel , which sits on a three-mile beach-front stretch. With a wealth of classes that range from kukui nut bracelet making and ukulele lessons to Hawaiian language sessions and lauhala weaving, visitors can immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture.

While you’re on Maui, road trip to Haleakalā National Park for views of nesting seabirds, or take a hike through a dramatic volcanic landscape. Then, enjoy award-winning French cuisine at Gerard’s Restaurant . After a day in the sun, get a treat from island favorite Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice . The local spot has more than 50 flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Park City, Utah

Park City is packed with enchanting shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants . To take in the famous Arches National Park and Canyonlands , go on a Montage Expedition . The intimate experience includes a private plane, Montage tour guide, and hiking and biking opportunities to get up close and personal with the natural red rock monuments.

Yountville, California

Come to the heart of Napa Valley during cabernet season, when the air is crisp and crowds are scarcer than usual.

Hotel Yountville has 80 romantic guest rooms with fireplaces and outdoor living space. The concierge can assist in making reservations for private tastings at one of the 200 nearby wineries . Don't miss the Nomad Heritage Library at Stewart Cellars .

Toronto, Canada

A superb spot for foodies, put a liquid blanket on at the Toronto Winter Brewfest , which usually takes place in early March. History buffs can spend some time exploring The Royal Ontario Museum (you must get a time-based ticket), which has over six million artifacts devoted to Canadian and world history. Also, check out the CN Tower , which defines Toronto’s skyline. This engineering marvel is an entertainment and dining destination, with a thrilling ride aboard glass elevators.

Stay at Hotel X Toronto , a luxury hotel on the Lake Ontario Waterfront downtown.

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City may be known as the Cherry Capital of the World (fun fact: 74 percent of the country’s tart cherries are grown in and around Traverse City), but when the snow falls, the popular summer spot turns into a winter wonderland. In addition to plenty of slopes for skiing and snowboarding (local favorite Shanty Creek Resorts has 53 downhill slopes, six terrain parks, and a multi-lane alpine tubing park), there are also lots of trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and even sledding at nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park .

Looking for something less adventurous? The Dennos Museum has one has one of the largest collections of Inuit art in the country, while the Village at Grand Traverse Commons —formerly the Northern Michigan Asylum—is now one of the largest historic redevelopment projects in the United States, with shops, restaurants, and residences. During your visit, you can also join a guided walking tour to learn more about the history of the buildings, explore the underground steam tunnel, and go inside untouched buildings. At night, take in a movie at The State Theater —which was fully restored in 2017 for a state-of-the-art cinematic experience—or play old-school arcade games, like Galaga and Frogger, at the Coin Slot .

While Traverse City has many spectacular restaurants (make sure to pick up Frenchies Famous ’s legendary pastrami sandwich for lunch and swing by Trattoria Stella for dinner), it’s also home to more than a dozen wineries—not to mention, there are 20 more in neighboring Leelanau County. For a daylong wine-tasting excursion, head to Old Mission Peninsula (do not miss Chateau Chantal ’s amazing bay views and the selection of red and sparkling wines at 2 Lads Winery ).

Carlsbad, California

A les- crowded alternative to iconic Southern California beach cities, Carlsbad is only 30 minutes north of the hustle and bustle of San Diego.

Families can spend the day at LEGOLAND , go hiking along the lagoon, take in the craft beer scene, or peruse the art galleries.

Some great dining spots include West Steak and Seafood and PAON Restaurant & Wine Bar .

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