Best place to go on december in usa – As December rolls in, America transforms into a winter wonderland, beckoning adventurers to experience the magic of its festivities, landscapes, and wildlife. Cities shine bright with twinkling lights, national parks invite brave hikers to conquer snow-covered trails, and winter festivals ignite joy in the hearts of all who attend.
While the United States offers a multitude of incredible destinations to visit during December, this guide will focus on the top places to experience the beauty of the season. From festive cities to stunning national parks, we’ll delve into the must-see attractions and hidden gems that make America a winter wonderland.
Discovering the Most Magical Cities to Visit in December in the USA
December is a magical time to visit the USA, with festive cities transforming into winter wonderlands. Each city has its unique traditions and events that make the holiday season special. In this article, we will explore three of the most magical cities to visit in December in the USA.
Festive Cities in December
December is a time for celebration and festivities in many American cities. Here are three cities that stand out for their unique traditions and events in December.
- New York City, New York
- Orlando, Florida
- Denver, Colorado
New York City: A Winter Wonderland, Best place to go on december in usa
New York City is a true winter wonderland in December, with iconic landmarks transformed into festive spectacles. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, towering over 90 feet tall, is adorned with thousands of lights. The ice skating rink, a popular destination, is surrounded by shops and restaurants offering holiday treats.
- The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is one of the most iconic landmarks during the holiday season, attracting millions of visitors.
- New York City hosts the famous Christmas markets, offering unique gifts and holiday crafts.
- The New York City Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” is a must-see performance during the holiday season.
Orlando: A Festive Celebration
Orlando, known for its theme parks, transforms into a festive celebration in December. Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is adorned with lights and decorations, with special events and parties for both adults and children. Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld also offer special events and attractions.
- Walt Disney World hosts the “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” with exclusive access to holiday attractions and entertainment.
- The “Universal’s Holiday Celebration” features festive decorations, live music, and special events.
- SeaWorld Orlando’s “Clyde and Seamore’s Christmas” features a festive celebration for kids, with animal shows and holiday crafts.
Denver: A Rocky Mountain Christmas
Denver, known for its natural beauty, transforms into a festive destination in December. The Colorado State Capitol building is decorated with lights, while the Denver Christmas tree is adorned with over 2,000 lights. The Denver Zoo’s “Zoo Lights” event features hundreds of thousands of LED lights and festive decorations.
- The Denver Botanic Gardens’ “Garden of Lights” features over a million lights, creating a magical winter wonderland.
- The Denver Zoo’s “Candyland Christmas” features a festive celebration for kids, with animal shows and holiday crafts.
- The Colorado State Capitol building is decorated with lights and festive decorations, making it a popular destination during the holiday season.
Climate and Precipitation in December
The climate and precipitation levels in December can affect tourist activities. On average, New York City has a high chance of precipitation (4.5 inches), while Orlando is generally dry (2 inches). Denver has a relatively dry month (1.8 inches), with temperatures ranging from 34°F to 46°F (-1°C to 8°C).
- New York City has an average high temperature of 48°F (9°C) and an average low temperature of 36°F (2°C).
- Orlando has an average high temperature of 72°F (22°C) and an average low temperature of 50°F (10°C).
- Denver has an average high temperature of 43°F (6°C) and an average low temperature of 24°F (-4°C).
The Top Winter Festivals and Events in the USA
Get ready to experience the magic of winter in the United States, with a plethora of festivals and events that offer something for everyone. From coast to coast, cities and towns come alive with vibrant celebrations, spectacular entertainment, and mouthwatering food. Each festival has its unique charm and history, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of America.
National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a cherished American tradition that takes place annually in Washington, D.C. Since 1923, this event has been a beloved holiday ritual, welcoming visitors from across the country to witness the illumination of the National Christmas Tree. The festive atmosphere is filled with music, dancing, and the joy of the season. The ceremony is typically held on the first Thursday of December and features live performances, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa Claus.
The iconic National Christmas Tree is a 50-foot Norway spruce, decorated with thousands of lights, ornaments, and a stunning star on top. The tree is donated each year from a different location, often from a family who tends to it. Visitors can explore the surrounding National Mall area, which offers various activities, such as ice skating, face painting, and photos with characters from A Christmas Carol.
Ice Sculpture Festival
The Ice Sculpture Festival takes place in Buffalo, New York, and is a popular winter destination. Since 1994, this event has been attracting visitors with breathtaking ice sculptures created by skilled artisans. The festival features over 600 tons of ice, carved into magnificent sculptures, including animals, mythical creatures, and iconic buildings.
Imagine walking through a winter wonderland, surrounded by towering ice structures that seem to come alive in the fading light of day. Visitors can enjoy hot chocolate, watch live ice carving demonstrations, and browse the many food and craft vendors. The festival offers a range of activities, including a visit to the adjacent Canalside, where visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or enjoy the festive lights display.
Ski Festival at Vail
The Vail Ski Festival is a must-visit event for skiing enthusiasts in December. Located in Vail, Colorado, this world-famous ski resort hosts a series of festivals and events, including live music performances, fireworks displays, and skiing competitions. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking snow-covered mountains, while participating in various activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, or even taking a gentle sleigh ride.
Attendees can enjoy the festive atmosphere in Vail Village, where they can browse the many shops, restaurants, and bars. The village comes alive with live music, dancing, and delicious winter treats, such as s’mores, hot cocoa, and local craft beers. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, the Vail Ski Festival offers a memorable experience that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Winterlude Festival
Winterlude is a unique festival celebrated in Ottawa, Canada (just across the border from the USA), but it is still relevant to this discussion because I will explain the festival and then provide info about events similar to it inside the United States. Winterlude is a celebration of the winter season, offering activities such as ice skating, ice sculpture carving, and dog sledding. Visitors can explore the many vendors selling local crafts, enjoy traditional Canadian cuisine, and attend live music performances. Imagine walking through the winter wonderland, surrounded by snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and the magic of the season.
Here are some similar events inside the USA:
- Austin Trail of Lights (Austin, Texas, USA) – This event features a 2-mile walking trail lined with over 1.5 million lights, creating a magical winter wonderland.
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting (New York City, New York, USA) – This iconic event has been broadcast on television since 1951 and features a towering Christmas tree, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus.
- Napa Valley Festival (Napa, California, USA) – This festival offers wine tastings, live music, and a festive atmosphere, perfect for the holiday season.
The Best Christmas Lights Displays in the USA
Get ready to be dazzled by the most magical and spectacular Christmas lights displays in the USA. From coast to coast, these enchanting displays will transport you to a winter wonderland, filling your heart with holiday cheer and awe. Whether you’re a fan of classic displays or innovative installations, we’ve got you covered with the top Christmas lights displays to visit in the country.
Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic in Chicago, Illinois
Located in the heart of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo is home to one of the most iconic and breathtaking Christmas lights displays in the country. The zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over a million lights, intricate designs, and animated displays that will leave you mesmerized. The highlight of the display is the life-size Santa’s sleigh, complete with reindeer and elves, making it a must-visit for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.
ZooLights in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis ZooLights is an annual tradition that illuminates the zoo with over 600,000 lights, creating a whimsical and fantastical atmosphere. The display features a variety of themed areas, including a winter wonderland, a holiday village, and a festive forest. Be sure to check out the animated displays, including a dancing tree and a light show that syncs to music.
Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights in Bellevue, Washington
Garden d’Lights is a holiday tradition in Bellevue, Washington, featuring over 600,000 lights that transform the Bellevue Botanical Garden into a stunning winter wonderland. The display includes intricate designs, elaborate installations, and a variety of theme areas, including a festive forest, a holiday village, and a winter wonderland. Don’t miss the majestic tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights.
San Diego Botanic Garden’s Glow in the Garden in Encinitas, California
Glow in the Garden is an enchanting holiday display at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas, California. Over 150,000 lights transform the garden into a winter wonderland, featuring a variety of themed areas, including a festive forest, a holiday village, and a winter wonderland. Be sure to check out the majestic tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and a beautiful light show that syncs to music.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History’s Festival of Lights in Brewster, Massachusetts
Festival of Lights is an annual tradition at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster, Massachusetts. Over 50,000 lights transform the museum’s grounds into a winter wonderland, featuring a variety of themed areas, including a festive forest, a holiday village, and a winter wonderland. Don’t miss the beautiful tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and a stunning light show that syncs to music.
Quechee Gorge Village’s Holiday Marketplace and Lighting in Quechee, Vermont
Quechee Gorge Village’s Holiday Marketplace and Lighting is an annual tradition in Quechee, Vermont. Over 200,000 lights transform the village into a winter wonderland, featuring a variety of themed areas, including a festive forest, a holiday village, and a winter wonderland. Don’t miss the beautiful tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and a stunning light show that syncs to music.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s Nights of Lights in Santa Cruz, California
Nights of Lights is an annual tradition at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California. Over 1.5 million lights transform the boardwalk into a winter wonderland, featuring a variety of themed areas, including a festive forest, a holiday village, and a winter wonderland. Don’t miss the majestic tree, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and a stunning light show that syncs to music.
When to Visit:
All of these Christmas lights displays are typically open from late November to early January, with some displaying from the middle of November to early February. Check the attractions’ websites for specific dates and hours of operation.
Tips for Visiting:
– Plan ahead and check the attraction’s website for dates, hours of operation, and ticket prices.
– Pack warm clothing, as the displays are usually open in the evenings and can get chilly.
– Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking displays and memories.
– Enjoy the festive atmosphere and holiday music while taking in the magic of these spectacular Christmas lights displays.
– Consider visiting the displays during the week or on a less busy evening to avoid crowds.
Visiting the Most Scenic Winter Destinations in the USA: Best Place To Go On December In Usa
The United States offers a diverse range of winter destinations that are perfect for those who love snow, ice, and the great outdoors. From the majestic mountains to the frozen lakes and picturesque coastlines, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this section, we will take a look at three of the most scenic winter destinations in the USA.
The Rocky Mountains of Colorado
The Rocky Mountains of Colorado are a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The mountains are blanketed with snow, creating a serene and peaceful landscape that is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The towns of Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge are popular destinations for skiers and snowboarders, offering world-class slopes and amenities. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and frozen lakes.
The Frozen Tundra of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a unique winter destination that offers a chance to see the natural beauty of the American wilderness in all its glory. The park’s frozen lakes, geysers, and hot springs create a surreal landscape that is unlike anywhere else in the world. Visitors can take guided tours, hike on snow-covered trails, and spot wildlife such as bison, elk, and wolves. The park’s natural beauty is even more stunning during the winter months, when the landscape is blanketed with snow and ice.
The Ice Hotels of Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a scenic winter destination located on the California-Nevada border. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are surrounded by mountains and forests, creating a picturesque landscape that is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The town of South Lake Tahoe offers a range of amenities, including world-class resorts, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also take scenic drives, hike on snow-covered trails, and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Tips for Capturing Stunning Photographs
Capturing stunning photographs during a winter trip to the USA requires a combination of preparation, creativity, and patience. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your camera:
* Plan your shot: Research the destination and plan your shots in advance. Look for unique angles, lighting, and composition.
* Bring the right gear: Bring a camera with a good lens, a tripod, and a remote shutter release.
* Shoot during the golden hour: The golden hour, just before sunset, is the best time to capture stunning photographs.
* Experiment with different angles: Don’t be afraid to try different angles and perspectives to add interest to your shots.
* Capture the beauty of the landscape: Take time to appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape and capture it on camera.
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture expansive vistas.
- Shoot in RAW format to capture the maximum amount of detail.
- Use a tripod to avoid camera shake and blur.
- Experiment with different modes, such as HDR and panoramic stitching.
The Top Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in the USA
Visiting a family-friendly ski resort in December can be a great way to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Not only can you enjoy the beautiful winter scenery and snow-covered slopes, but you can also experience the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Many ski resorts offer special events and activities for families, such as holiday-themed festivities, fireworks, and even visits with Santa Claus.
Ski resorts in the USA offer a wide range of benefits for families, including gentle slopes and beginner-friendly lifts, kids’ clubs and childcare services, and variety of dining options. These resorts cater to both beginners and experienced skiers, ensuring that everyone in the family has a great time.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Ski resorts offer a range of amenities that make them perfect for families. These include:
- Childcare services: Many ski resorts offer childcare services, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy some time on the slopes while their kids are in a safe and fun environment.
- Kids’ clubs: Some ski resorts have dedicated kids’ clubs that offer activities and lessons for children of all ages.
- Dining options: Ski resorts often have a range of dining options, from casual cafes and snack bars to fine dining restaurants.
- Lessons for kids: Ski resorts often offer lessons for kids, taught by experienced instructors who can help them learn to ski or improve their skills.
- Festive activities: Many ski resorts host festive activities, such as holiday-themed festivities, fireworks, and visits with Santa Claus.
Top Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in the USA
Here are three family-friendly ski resorts in the USA that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers:
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Keystone Resort, Colorado
Keystone Resort is a popular ski destination that offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club, childcare services, and a variety of dining options. The resort also offers gentle slopes and beginner-friendly lifts, making it perfect for families with young children.Keystone Resort has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, condos, and vacation homes. The resort also offers a variety of activities for families, including ice skating, sleigh rides, and a visit to the Keystone Science School.
The Keystone Resort’s kids’ club offers a range of activities, including arts and crafts, games, and outdoor adventures.
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Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Park City Mountain Resort is a world-class ski destination that offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club, childcare services, and a variety of dining options. The resort also offers gentle slopes and beginner-friendly lifts, making it perfect for families with young children.Park City Mountain Resort has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, condos, and vacation homes. The resort also offers a variety of activities for families, including ski lessons, ice skating, and a visit to the Utah Olympic Park.
Park City Mountain Resort offers a range of ski lessons for kids, taught by experienced instructors.
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Sunday River Resort, Maine
Sunday River Resort is a family-friendly ski resort that offers a range of amenities, including a kids’ club, childcare services, and a variety of dining options. The resort also offers gentle slopes and beginner-friendly lifts, making it perfect for families with young children.Sunday River Resort has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, condos, and vacation homes. The resort also offers a variety of activities for families, including ski lessons, ice skating, and a visit to the Sunday River Resort’s own water park.
Sunday River Resort offers a range of ski lessons for kids, taught by experienced instructors.
The Best Places to See Winter Wildlife in the USA
December is the perfect time to witness the breathtaking beauty of winter wildlife in the United States. As the seasons change, animals adapt and migrate to find food and shelter, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitats.
National Parks and Wildlife Refuges for Winter Wildlife Viewing
Three national parks and wildlife refuges stand out for their exceptional winter wildlife viewing experiences. These destinations are ideal for spotting a variety of animals, from majestic moose to playful deer.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a haven for winter wildlife enthusiasts. During the winter months, the park is home to a herd of 500 moose, making it one of the best places to see these magnificent creatures. The park’s rugged terrain and diverse landscapes provide a variety of habitats for moose, deer, and other wildlife to thrive. Best times to visit are from late January to early March, when the snow cover is most ideal for spotting these animals.
- Moose are most active during early morning and late afternoon when the snow is crusty underfoot.
- Bring warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, to stay warm while observing moose in the cold winter weather.
- Binoculars and a field guide can help identify different moose species and behaviors.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is another exceptional destination for winter wildlife viewing. The park’s stunning mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife make it an ideal spot to see animals like bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and deer. Visitors can take advantage of the park’s scenic drives, hiking trails, and guided tours to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures.
- Take a guided snowshoe tour or hike through the park’s winter trails to spot wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
- Bring warm clothing and layered gear to stay comfortable in the cold winter environment.
- The park’s scenic drives offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Kenai Fjords National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
Kenai Fjords National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for its breathtaking winter landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the refuge’s rugged coastline, snow-covered mountains, and ice-covered fjords to spot animals like sea otters, sea lions, and whales. This is an ideal destination for those interested in observing marine life in its natural habitat.
- Take a guided tour or cruise to spot sea otters, sea lions, and whales in the refuge’s stunning fjords.
- Bring warm and waterproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable in the cold winter environment.
- The refuge’s diverse landscapes and wildlife offer endless opportunities for photography and exploration.
Closing Summary
Whether you’re a fan of twinkling lights, snow-covered landscapes, or festive festivities, America has something to offer everyone during December. From its vibrant cities to its breathtaking natural wonders, the United States is a destination that embodies the magic of winter, making it the perfect place to visit during the holiday season.
Essential FAQs
Q: What are the best cities to visit in December in the USA?
A: Some of the best cities to visit in December in the USA include New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, known for their festive decorations, ice skating rinks, and holiday markets.
Q: Which national parks offer excellent winter hiking opportunities in the USA?
A: National parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Acadia offer excellent winter hiking opportunities, with trails that wind through snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and picturesque villages.
Q: What are the most popular winter festivals in the USA?
A: Some of the most popular winter festivals in the USA include the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
