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Looking for some warm Christmas destinations in the USA? We are here to help!
When we think about the holidays, cold weather and snow come to mind straight away. Although this is definitely a great thing, you can also opt for a warm Christmas vacation.
The US are blessed to have various climates which means that you will find many places where you can enjoy a warm Christmas vacation.
This includes historic cities, national parks but also beach destinations.
From Florida to Arizona, we will go through the best destinations in the US for a warm Christmas getaway.
We will also tell you everything you need to know about the best things to do in all these locations during the month of December.
1. Key West, FL
- Average temperature in Key West in December: 77°F / 68°F (25°C / 20°C)
- Perfect for: Water activities and relaxing Christmas vacation
If you are looking for a fun Christmas destination, Key West will be the perfect choice!
Located at the very end of the Florida Keys, Key West is a paradise for people who want to have fun and enjoy a relaxing Christmas vacation.
There is an incredible range of water activities available as well as Christmas activities.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Key West Itinerary: How to Spend a Weekend in Key West
Things to do in Key West at Christmas:
- Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Lights Tour. This runs from December 6th to the 23rd and is the perfect tour to put you in the holiday spirit! The local guide will show you everything Christmassy in Key West.
- Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. This is one of the best places to visit in Florida and it’s quite a hidden gem. The only place you can get there from is Key West so don’t miss out on this!
- Key West Holiday Parade. This annual event is a must-see if you are visiting in the half of the month of December. It starts in front of Truman and Eisenhower and ends at Duval and Front Streets.
- Kayaking in the mangroves. This is heads down one of the best things to do in the Florida Keys. There are a lot of mangroves between the keys and the Everglades and kayaking through them is a magical experience. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see some manatees.
- Santa Claus Meet and Greet. Traveling with kids? Bring them to see Santa then. You can find him on Mallory Square on selected dates throughout the month of December.
- Watching the sunset. This is a big thing in Key West. Every day, there is the sunset celebration in Mallory Square. Another way to experience this beautiful time of the day is by joining a sunset cruise.
PRO TIP: Fly to Miami instead of Key West. Flights are much cheaper and then you’ll get to do a road trip through the Keys which is amazing!
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Key West here and Miami here.
- Accommodation: Stay at Ocean Key Resort & Spa for luxury and Blue Marlin Motel for mid-range accommodation.
READ MORE: 25 Best Things to do in the Florida Keys
2. Maui, HI
- Average temperature in Maui in December: 72°F / 57°F (22°C / 14°C)
- Perfect for: outdoor activities and beaches
Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island. It’s particularly famous for its beautiful beaches, the sacred Lao Valley and cuisine.
In winter, you can also go whale watching here and that’s something you shouldn’t miss out on. It’s exceptional!
When it comes to fantastic tropical landscapes, Maui sets the standard.
One of the best things to do on the island is to take the scenic route to Hana. You’ll discover beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs and impressive waterfalls.
Things to do in Maui at Christmas:
- The lighting of the Banyan Tree. Located in Lahaina, this is one of the largest Banyan trees in the USA. In December, it’s wrapped in hundreds of Christmas lights and shines all night long. Magical!
- Watching a traditional Hawaiian luau. There is nothing more traditional than this Hawaiian custom! You can book tickets for the Te Au Moana Luau on Maui. It’s a beautiful dance portraying Hawaiian and Polynesian stories.
- Boat trip to Molokini Crater. This is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Hawaii and a must-see! You can opt for a catamaran trip that includes a stop at the beautiful Molokini Crater and at Turtle Town for snorkeling.
- Ziplining. There are many zip lines on the island. If you love outdoor adventures and treetops, make sure to book this activity.
- Horseback riding. This is an excellent way to discover beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean while having fun. Whether you are experienced or not, the local guide will make this adventure magical!
- Enjoy a Hawaiian Christmas Dinner. Book at one of the local restaurants for Christmas day and discover what a traditional Hawaiian Christmas dinner is like. Spoiler alert: it’s delicious!
- Whale watching. During the winter months, humpback whales migrate along the coasts of Hawaii which means it’s the best time of the year (actually it’s the only time!) to see them.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Maui here
- Accommodation: Stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea for a luxury vacation.
3. St Petersburg, FL
- Average temperature in St Petersburg in December: 72°F / 57°F (22°C / 14°C)
- Perfect for: beaches, street art and fun Christmas getaway
Looking for a warm beach destination in the USA in December? This one is for you!
Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, St Pete (as the locals would call it) has everything you need for the perfect warm Christmas vacation!
Beaches, lively downtown, museums, beautiful hidden gems, natural springs… everything is here or a short drive away!
READ MORE: Best Things to do in St Petersburg, Florida
Things to do in St Pete at Christmas:
- Hit the beach. The best thing about St Pete is that there are dozens of beautiful beaches around. The most famous is St Pete Beach but you should also head to Sunset Beach, Treasure Island beach or even up to Clearwater Beach.
- Photos with Santa. Traveling with kids and want to meet Santa while spending Christmas in St Pete FL? That’s possible! You can find Santa every weekend at the Sundial (Downtown).
- Visiting the state parks. Within 40 minutes from Downtown St Pete, you will find 3 fantastic state parks: Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island and Fort De Soto. They are all fantastic and perfect for people who are looking for hidden gems in Florida.
- Ugly Sweater Crawl. Yep, that’s a thing here! Since 2015, there has been an annual ugly sweater crawl in St Petersburg. It takes place a couple of weeks before Christmas and is so much fun! There even is a Christmas trivia!
- Playing shuffleboard. Looking for a unique activity? Try this one! Every Friday evening, the Shuffleboard club of St Pete opens its doors to non-members for free. It’s super fun and BYOB.
READ MORE: 14 Incredible Hidden Gems in St Petersburg (FL), Clearwater & Tampa
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Tampa here (nearest international airport)
- Accommodation: Stay at The Don Cesar in St Pete Beach (it’s a pink hotel!)
4. Houston, TX
- Average temperature in Houston in December: 63°F / 48°F (17°C / 9°C)
- Perfect for: Christmas city break, sightseeing and Christmas lights display
Located in Southeast Texas, Houston is the perfect choice for people looking for a warm city break for Christmas.
The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico makes it one of the warmest places in Texas in winter.
It’s an excellent destination for people into history, who love learning about space (though Florida and the Kennedy Space Center are a great option for that as well) and discovering small beach towns in Texas.
READ MORE: 8 Beautiful Small Towns in Texas to visit this year!
Things to do in Houston at Christmas:
- Visiting the Museum of Natural Science. The HMNS is home to an amazing range of collections including space station models and skeletons. It’s a great place to visit in the winter.
- Ice-skating at the Discovery Green Ice Rink. Not only is ice-skating always a fun thing to do at Christmas but this specific one is perfect to enjoy the views of downtown Houston and the beautiful lights.
- Visiting the Space Center Houston. “Houston, we have a problem”, does that ring a bell? Yep, we are talking about Apollo 13 and space here. If you want to learn more about Houston and its connections with everything space-related, make sure to visit the Space Center.
- Dasher’s Lightshow. If you are looking for a magical and festive experience, this drive-thru in Houston will be perfect for you!
- Taking the Christmas Train. This is an absolute must-do in Houston at Christmas. You can book your tickets online and go on a magical ride aboard the Christmas train. If you are traveling with kids, they will love it even more!
PRO TIP: If you are planning on visiting several attractions in Houston, opt for the CityPASS. It will save you a lot of money and will give you the opportunity to do even more! See prices here.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Houston here.
- Accommodation: Stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott near Houston Medical Center and NRG Park.
5. Orlando, FL
- Average temperature in Orlando in December: 75°F / 55°F (24°C / 13°C)
- Perfect for: theme parks and festive events in Florida
Located in Central Florida, Orlando is famous in the entire world for its wonderful theme parks.
If you are looking for the perfect Christmas present this year, why not opting for a trip to Disney World or Universal?
You can easily get to Orlando from anywhere in the US (or in the world). Orlando International is extremely well connected and you can score some amazingly cheap flights.
Besides the parks, Orlando also has a lot to offer especially in December. It’s one of the best places to spend Christmas in Florida and there are tons of activities.
READ MORE: The Best Things To Do In Orlando, Florida
Things to do in Orlando at Christmas:
- Disney World. Let’s start with a classic! Nobody can leave Orlando without having spent at least one day at Disney World. Between Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and the Hollywood Studios, you’ve got enough to be busy for a few days!
- Admiring the beautiful Christmas decorations at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. When Christmas comes around, Disney goes big! The best place to see fantastic and huge Christmas decorations is the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa near Magic Kingdom.
- Universal Studios. More of a Harry Potter fan? Then Universal will be your jam! There are many fun rides and it’s often preferred by adults.
- Tree lighting celebration. If you are visiting at the beginning of the month of December, head to Lake Eola for the Christmas tree lighting celebration. It’s so pretty!
- Downtown Orlando Christmas Parade. This happens mid-December and is also a must-see for everyone who loves Christmas events.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Orlando here
- Accommodation: Stay at Marriott Orlando Downtown Hotel or at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
6. Kauai, HI
- Average temperature in Kauai in December: 72°F / 55°F (22°C / 13°C)
- Perfect for: outdoor lovers and winter sun
Part of the beautiful Hawaiian archipelago, Kauai is the 4th largest island. It is nicknamed “the Garden Isle” and is an excellent place for people looking for a tropical destination for Christmas.
The lush mountains, the waterfalls, the stunning beaches… everything about Kauai is purely magical.
It’s a paradise for outdoor lovers and should be your first choice if you love to hike, snorkel and discover beautiful landscapes.
Things to do in Kauai for Christmas:
- Festival of Lights. Located in the Historic County Building Park, the Kauai Festival of Lights is perfect to get into the festive spirit. The park lights are lit every day from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day.
- Cruising and snorkeling. The best way to see the Na Pali Coast is from a boat. Opt for a catamaran day trip that includes snorkeling and swimming. It’s a magical experience.
- Discovering the waterfalls. Kauai is home to dozens of waterfalls. All are beautiful and impressive. Exploring the island and checking out these beautiful sites are a must-do. You can join an ATV tour and go around the island. The guide will bring you to the best spots.
- Santa’s Visit. Santa always comes to the festival of lights in Kauai and it’s a rather interesting thing to see as he arrives with a “Hawaiian-version of a sledge”, a paddle!
- Helicopter tour of Kauai. If you want to truly experience the island and get to see how remarkable and impressive the landscapes are, the best way to do so is to go on a helicopter tour. It’s a popular activity here and you can be sure of one thing. It’s breathtaking!
- Sunset cruise. The sunset is pretty amazing on the island and one of the best ways to enjoy them is to join a local sunset cruise.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Kauai here.
- Accommodation: For luxury, stay at the Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu. For mid-range accommodation, Kauai Shores Hotel is an excellent option.
7. Sedona, AZ
- Average temperature in Sedona in December: 59°F / 34°F (15°C / 1°C)
- Perfect for: outdoor lovers
Located in the heart of the Arizona desert, Sedona is one of the cutest small towns in the USA and well worth visiting in winter.
Of course, it won’t be quite as warm as other destinations mentioned in this article but it’s still very pleasant.
Famous for its red rocks and its amazing hiking opportunities.
Fun fact: Sedona is the only place in the world where you can find a MacDonald’s restaurant with a teal “M”.
As you may know, McDonald’s always has a yellow sign but in Sedona, it’s completely different.
Though it is not a reason to visit per se, it’s always a nice thing to know.
READ MORE: 12 Best Small towns in Arizona for a vacation away from the crowds!
Things to do in Sedona for Christmas:
- Hiking. Sedona is a famous hiking destination and even in winter, it’s worth going on a few hikes. Make sure to wear layers to be prepared for all sorts of temperatures. It is the desert after all. The best hikes are Cathedral Rock trail, Bell Rock loop and Devil’s Bridge.
- Tlaquepaque Christmas Lights. This village in Sedona is known for its quaint shops and is a great place to see beautiful Christmas decorations.
- Helicopter tour. The best way to really soak up the views and understand how beautiful it is, is to see it from the sky. Book a helicopter tour for the ultimate activity.
- Jeep tour. Home to some of the most scenic drives in the US, Sedona is a good place to explore with a jeep. You’ll get to see beautiful landscapes and the stunning Oak Creek Canyon.
- Sedona Christmas Trolley. If you love all things Christmas and want to discover everything, take the Christmas trolley. You’ll go around the entire town. It will definitely put you in the festive spirit.
- Going to the Grand Canyon. It would be impossible to mention Sedona without talking about the Grand Canyon. You can easily get there and explore but if you are looking for something a bit more exceptional, opt for a sunset tour.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Flagstaff Pulliam here. (nearest airport)
- Accommodation: Stay at L’Auberge De Sedona for a luxury vacation or at Cedars Resort if you are looking for mid-range accommodation.
8. San Antonio, TX
- Average temperature in San Antonio in December: 64°F / 39°F (18°C / 4°C)
- Perfect for: city break, Christmas decorations and sightseeing
San Antonio, Texas, is definitely one of the best places to go for a Christmas vacation. You’ll get to enjoy the mild to warm temperatures as well as all the festivities going on in the city.
Also, San Antonio is known for being very hot during the rest of the year so visiting in winter is actually much more pleasant.
There is so much to do in San Antonio for Christmas and you can be sure of one thing: you’ll have fun!
Things to do in San Antonio at Christmas:
- Riverwalk Christmas Lights. Head to the riverwalk to discover the beautiful light display in San Antonio. It’s one of the most beautiful Christmas lights displays in Texas and well worth your time. It feels magical!
- Cave Without a Name. This is one of the most famous landmarks near San Antonio and a great place to visit in winter. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.
- Light the Way Festival. This annual event is perfect for foodies who want to grab some delicious food and find unique Christmas gifts.
- Segway Tour of Historic San Antonio. This is perfect for people who want to learn more about San Antonio, the local culture and history. You will be on a segway which is both fun and convenient.
- Santa’s Railroad. Located at the Transportation Museum, this nighttime train is perfect for kids and people who love discovering Christmas decorations.
- Food tour of San Antonio. While in Texas, eating some delicious Tex-Mex food is a must-do! To be sure to get the best dishes, join a local food tour.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to San Antonio here.
- Accommodation: Stay at The Westin Riverwalk. It’s ideally located by the Riverwalk which means you can enjoy the stunning views of the Christmas decorations.
9. San Diego, CA
- Average temperature in San Diego in December: 66°F / 50°F (19°C / 10°C)
- Perfect for: water activities, whale watching and theme parks
Looking for Christmas destinations in California? This one is for you!
San Diego is by far one of the best destinations for a warm Christmas vacation in the US. The climate is superb and there is so much you can do during the festive season.
Of course, you can opt for the all-time favourite: the theme parks. But there are also many other activities that you can indulge in.
Things to do in San Diego at Christmas:
- Whale Watching. The season for whale watching starts from mid-December which means that you can fully enjoy this activity during your Christmas vacation. It’s such a great thing to do! You will get to see whales, dolphins but also other marine animals. See prices here.
- Little Italy Christmas activities. San Diego’s Little Italy is home to a Christmas village with beautiful trees and decorations. It’s a great place to check out during the holidays.
- Hop-on Hop-off Trolley. If you’d like to discover the most famous landmarks in San Diego, including the historic center, the Gaslamp Quarter and San Diego Zoo, this will be a great option.
- Holiday Events at Hotel del Coronado. This is one of the most famous resorts in San Diego and they always organise many festive events in December. They even have an ice skating rink by the water!
- Sunset sail. San Diego is all about water activities and going sailing just before sunset is a must-do! See prices.
- Jungle Bells at San Diego Zoo. Each year San Diego Zoo organizes some festive celebrations. The festival is called Jungle Bells and is well worth a visit.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to San Diego here.
- Accommodation: Stay at La Valencia Hotel for a luxury stay in Downtown San Diego. For more festive events, opt for the beach resort Hotel del Coronado.
10. Savannah, GA
- Average temperature in Savannah in December: 64°F / 45°F (18°C / 7°C)
- Perfect for: history buffs and couples
Savannah is, without the shadow of a doubt, one of the top Christmas destinations in the USA.
Located on the coast of Georgia, Savannah is known for its picturesque districts and beautiful architecture.
It’s a particularly romantic location which makes it the ideal choice if you are looking for a couple’s getaway.
Art, boutiques, history… this charming city has it all.
Things to do in Savannah at Christmas:
- Walking tour. Savannah’s history is absolutely fascinating. There is a lot to learn about the Spanish heritage, the civil war and even some ghost stories. Opting for a walking tour is an excellent way to learn more about this fantastic city.
- Savannah Riverboat. Going on a cruise in Savannah is a great thing to do all year round but it gets even better in December as you get to see all the beautiful Christmas lights.
- Holiday tour of Homes. Each year, the Savannah Downtown Neighborhood Association offers some Christmas tours of Savannah’s most beautiful and historic houses. This is very unique and such an important tradition here.
- Lighted Christmas Parade. This takes place at the beginning of the month of december. You get to see Santa walking with a parade of lights down to the beach. It’s very nice!
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Savannah here.
- Accommodation: For a luxury Christmas vacation, opt for the Residence Inn Savannah Downtown in the Historic District. If you’d rather a cute B&B, book a room at the Savannah Bed & Breakfast Inn.
11. Miami, FL
- Average temperature in Miami in December: 75°F / 66°F (24°C / 19°C)
- Perfect for: winter sun, water activities and fun beach vacation
Located in the southern part of Florida, Miami needs no introduction.
The Magic City has always been one of the top Christmas destinations in Florida. The temperature is warm (if not hot) and there is so much to do.
You will get to go to the beach, sip on some cocktails on Ocean Drive and take beautiful Instagram photos in Wynwood.
Miami is a fun destination and it’s an excellent place for a group of friends or a girl trip.
READ MORE: 23 Unique & Fun Things to do in Miami, Florida
Things to do in Miami at Christmas:
- Santa’s Enchanted Forest. Miami is home to a theme park entirely dedicated to Christmas. This is the perfect thing to do if you love all things Christmas! Rides, lights, shows, Santa… it truly has it all!
- Christmas tree lighting at Bayfront Park. The day after Thanksgiving, the Christmas tree is lit up in Downtown Miami. If you are visiting at this time, it’s a good thing to check out.
- Going to the beach. Miami is home to several beautiful beaches. The most famous one is South Beach. It’s located in Miami Beach and is a great place to enjoy a relaxing and sunny day. You will also find many colorful lifeguard stations where you can take photos.
- Winterfest Boat Parade. Each year, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino organizes a Winterfest boat parade. It takes place in Fort Lauderdale which is not exactly in Miami but it’s very close and well worth your time.
- Eating Cuban food. Miami is home to Little Havana and it’s one of the best places to get food! Cuban sandwich, ice cream… everything is here!
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Miami here.
- Accommodation: For a luxury vacation, opt for a beautiful hotel in Miami Beach. 1 Hotel South Beach and Hotel Victor South Beach are both great options.
12. Honolulu, HI
- Average temperature in Honolulu in December: 82°F / 66°F (28°C / 19°C)
- Perfect for: history buffs and outdoor lovers.
Located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Honolulu is particularly famous for being home to Pearl Harbor and other WWII sites. This is why it’s an excellent destination for history buffs.
That having been said, its location also makes it the perfect tropical Christmas getaway.
Beaches, volcanoes, historical sites… Honolulu has so much to offer!
Things to do in Honolulu at Christmas:
- Pearl Harbor. Visiting Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial is a must-do when on vacation in Honolulu. Make sure to book your tickets in advance. If you are visiting on the 7th of December, you will also get to see the annual Pearl Harbor Memorial Anniversary Parade.
- Discovering the island. Oahu is such a gorgeous place so make sure to take a day to go around the island and discover the Diamond Head Crater, the Halona Blowhole and Makapu’u Point.
- Honolulu Christmas lights. During the month of December, you will get to see the beautiful Christmas decorations. There is a beautiful Christmas tree placed in front of the Honolulu City Hall.
- Festival of Lights Boat Parade. This takes place at the beginning of the month at Hawaii Kai Towne Center.
- Sunset cruise. The colors over the water and the island are beautiful at sunset. To enjoy them even more, book a sunset cruise.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Honolulu here.
- Accommodation: The Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations Club is ideally located 10 minutes walk from the Waikiki beach and has everything you may need for the perfect beach Christmas vacation.
13. Charleston, SC
- Average temperature in Charleston in December: 61°F / 46°F (16°C / 8°C)
- Perfect for: history lovers, foodies and couples
With an average temperature of around 60F, Charleston is not the hottest destination but it’s still very pleasant to visit in December.
This beloved city in South Carolina is perfect for couples who are looking for a romantic winter getaway on the East Coast.
Things to do in Charleston at Christmas:
- Charleston Holiday Festival of Lights. It takes place in James Island County Park. There are over 3 miles of lights! You will also find a festival train, shops and Santa’s village.
- Walking tour of Charleston. There is so much to learn about Charleston and the best way to do so is to join a walking tour. You will go to the French Quarter, Rainbow Row and the Old Exchange. The guide will also give you plenty of tips for you to enjoy your stay in Charleston.
- Christmas Parade. This takes place at the beginning of the month of December and is a great free activity in downtown Charleston. It starts on Broad Street and finishes on Calhoun Street.
- Alleys & Hidden Passages tour. This is a great thing to do if you want to learn some interesting facts and secrets about the city. It’s also a great way to discover some hidden gems in Charleston.
- Holiday Boat Parade. This is another annual tradition in Charleston. You get to see plenty of festive boats on the Cooper River and in Charleston Harbor. For the best views, head to the Battery or Waterfront Park.
- Food tour. Charleston may not be New Orleans but there are still a lot of French influences here and that’s something you can definitely notice in the local cuisine. By joining a food tour, you will get to taste authentic and local dishes in the French Quarter and Charleston City Market.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Charleston here.
- Accommodation: Stay at Andrew Pinckney Inn in the historic district. It’s very close to the French Quarter and a great base for sightseeing.
14. Tucson, AZ
- Average temperature in Tucson in December: 66°F / 41°F (19°C / 5°C)
- Perfect for: small-town vibe and events
If you are looking for an unusual Christmas destination, Tucson Arizona may just be the right place for you.
Although it is the second-largest city in the state of Arizona, Tucson is not as busy as the other destinations mentioned in this article, making it the perfect choice for people looking for a more off-beat location.
With an average temperature of 66F in December, it’s a good and warm place to explore at Christmas time.
Things to do in Tucson at Christmas:
- Winterhaven Festival of Lights. This free festival is a must-see for anyone who loves Christmas displays. The entire neighborhood participates and it’s very pretty.
- Historic Bike Tour. If you’d like to know more about the history of Tucson, book a bike tour downtown. It’s very interesting and super fun as well!
- Zoo Lights. Each year, the Reid Park Zoo puts up an amazing Christmas light display.
- Fourth Avenue Street Fair. This event takes place in mid-December in Tucson and is always good fun. There is plenty to do, for adults as well as kids.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Tucson here.
- Accommodation: Stay at Tucson Marriott University Park downtown.
15. Phoenix, AZ
- Average temperature in Phoenix in December: 68°F / 45°F (20°C / 7°C)
- Perfect for: family Christmas vacation in the US
The capital of Arizona, Phoenix, is famously located in the Valley of the Sun. This couldn’t be more accurate as it is indeed quite a sunny and warm place even in winter.
With an average temperature of 68F, Phoenix is an excellent place to visit in December in the US if you want to enjoy warm weather.
There is plenty to do in the city and loads of day trips you can take.
Things to do in Phoenix at Christmas:
- Zoo Lights. Phoenix Zoo puts up an amazing Christmas lights display. You can admire it every day, in the evening, from the beginning of November to the end of December.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride. The landscapes in Arizona are incredibly pretty and if you want to get to see the desert in all its beauty, a hot air balloon ride will be the perfect thing to do!
- Winnie The Pooh Christmas trail. This annual event in Phoenix is perfect for people travelling with kids. You can get to see it during the month of December at the Valley Youth Theatre.
- Lights of the world. This holiday festival is one of the most beautiful light and lantern displays in Northern America. It’s a great event to attend.
- Exploring the Arizona Desert. It would be impossible to go to Phoenix without taking a day trip to the desert. One of the best ways to explore in winter is with an ATV. It’s very good fun and can be booked here.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to Phoenix here.
- Accommodation: Stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Downtown. The location is ideal and the breakfast is excellent.
16. Los Angeles, CA
- Average temperature in Los Angeles in December: 68°F / 48°F (20°C / 9°C)
- Perfect for: theme parks and festive events.
Los Angeles needs no introduction. It’s one of the most famous cities in the world and no matter when you’re thinking about visiting, it’s always a good idea.
Though LA is not the warmest location on this list, it’s still very pleasant during the day and a great place to enjoy some winter sun.
More importantly, it’s one of the best cities to visit in the US at Christmas. There are some festive activities all around!
Los Angeles definitely knows how to get into the holiday spirit!
Things to do in LA at Christmas:
- Holiday Ice Rink Pershing Square. It’s pretty unusual to see ice rinks in warm destinations but yet, that is the case in LA. Located in the heart of downtown LA, the holiday ice rink is a great place to go.
- Hollywood Christmas Parade. This is the ultimate Christmas activity in Los Angeles. It takes place on the famous Hollywood Boulevard. You can admire a giant Santa and other Christmas characters. It’s very good fun and a must-do for kids.
- Universal Studios Hollywood. Visiting Universal Studios is a must-do in LA (no matter the time of the year). It’s home to fantastic rides and the world of Harry Potter!
- Disneyland Christmas Fantasy Parade. Disney is another theme park that you should visit in California and it gets even better in December! Among all the festive events, there is the Christmas Fantasy parade. It’s such a magical thing to see! You’ll love it. It runs from mid-November to mid-January.
- Madame Tussauds Hollywood. Visiting a wax museum is always a fun thing to do and it’s even more accurate in LA. You’ll find over 100 life-size wax figures of famous stars!
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to LA here.
- Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Indigo in downtown Los Angeles for a luxury vacation. The location is particularly convenient and you’ll find everything you need in the hotel.
17. New Orleans, LA
- Average temperature in New Orleans in December: 64°F / 46°F (18°C / 8°C)
- Perfect for: fun friends getaway for Christmas and parties.
Located in Louisiana, New Orleans is famous for its music culture, French influence, creole cuisine and festivals.
While most people head there for Mardi Gras or Spring Break, it’s also a great destination if you are looking for a warm Christmas city break.
There is plenty to do and you can be sure to have loads of fun in New Orleans.
Things to do in New Orleans at Christmas
- Celebration in the Oaks. This is one of the best holiday lights festivals in the US and something you shouldn’t miss. It takes place on Friederich Avenue and tickets must be booked in advance.
- Discovering the French Quarter. This is the most famous district in New Orleans and there is a lot to discover! To learn more about the history of the French Quarter, join a local walking tour. Alternatively, you can opt for a food and cocktail tour (this is a better option for people who want to discover some of the best bars in the area)
- Réveillon Dinners. Réveillon means Christmas eve dinner in French and that’s something that is celebrated in New Orleans. A lot of traditional French and Creole restaurants are serving those delicious dinners in December. If you are looking for something authentic, this is a must try!
- Cooking class. With so many typical dishes, New Orleans is a paradise for foodies and one of the best things to do in the winter is to join a cooking class. You’ll learn how to make some of the famous specialities such as jambalaya, gumbo and pralines.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to New Orleans here.
- Accommodation: Stay at the Four Points by Sheraton French Quarter. It’s ideally located on Bourbon Street which means you’ll get easy access to all the best spots!
18. San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Average temperature in San Juan in December: 84°F / 68°F (29°C / 20°C)
- Perfect for: hot temperatures, winter sun, food and outdoor activities
San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and makes an excellent destination for a warm Christmas holiday.
Although Puerto Rico is not technically in the United States, it is an unincorporated territory and so easily accessible from the US that it would be a shame not to mention it.
Also, the average temperature in Puerto Rico in December is around 82F which makes it not a warm but very much of a hot Christmas destination!
If you want to escape the cold of winter, this will be the perfect place for you! It’s also much more affordable than all the other locations mentioned.
Things to do in San Juan at Christmas:
- Discovering the festive lights of Old San Juan. The historic district of San Juan is a very interesting place to discover during the day. You can go on a walking tour and learn plenty about the history of Puerto Rico. But in December, it’s in the evening that you should go there the most! There are hundreds of beautiful Christmas lights. It’s absolutely stunning.
- El Yunque Rainforest. This is one of the most popular day trips from San Juan and rightfully so! El Yunque Rainforest is home to fantastic natural pools, caves and waterfalls. In the evening, head to the Laguna Grande Bio Bay to see the bioluminescence. You can even book a kayak tour!
- Discovering the local food. If you are a foodie and love to discover authentic dishes, you should join a food tour in San Juan. You will discover the city with a local guide and get to taste some delicious Puerto Rican dishes.
- Craft Rum Cocktail Experience. The Caribbean is known for its rum and Puerto Rico is no exception. If you are always up for some cocktails join this cocktail tour. You will discover 3 local bars and get to sample delicious Puerto Rican rum.
Tips to plan your trip:
- Flights: Check out the best fares for flights to San Juan here.
- Accommodation: 352 Guest House is a beautiful inn ideally located in Old San Juan. It has everything you may need (even a hot tub!) and the staff is incredibly friendly. It’s the perfect place to stay if you are looking for something authentic, away from the big chains of hotels.
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