Top 15 Places to Visit in December
The thought of a trip during December can be a challenge in the midst of holiday shopping and end-of-year celebrations. You’ll be glad for it later on if you can squeeze in the time to go on a trip. U.S. News considered prices and accessibility, as well as seasonal crowds to determine the top places to go in December. If you’re looking for a sunny escape or are looking to feel the Christmas spirit in an icy town there’s something for you in these locations. Vote on your favorite place below to help you decide the next year’s itinerary. (Note that some locations listed below may have been affected by coronavirus epidemic. Make sure to check with your CDC as well as the U.S. Department of State prior to travel.)
Phuket
#1 in Best Places to Visit in December
Alhough Phuket, Thailand, provides a consistent warm weather all year round but its cool, dry conditions and calm waters in December makes this month an ideal time to travel. It is recommended to spend most of your time in the sun and swimming in scuba diving, and other activities on beaches such as Nai Harn and Kata Noi. Be aware that December falls in Phuket’s high tourism season, and there won’t be many discounts for accommodation or flights this time of the year. Don’t plan a trip to the holidays during December’s last week for more affordable prices.
Rio de Janeiro
#2 in Best Places to Visit in December
When it is the time that Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters the peak of summer. It’s one of the hottest (albeit some of the most wet) seasons in Rio, however you’ll have mostly sunny weather which gives plenty of time to visit famous landmarks such as Jesus Christ’s statue. If you’re looking forward to having a blast in Rio’s party scene when you visit make sure you plan your trip to coincide with Reveillon. The popular New Year’s Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people each year with the music, dancing and fireworks.
Hawaii – The Big Island
#3 in Best Places to Visit in December
It’s a Hawaiian paradisiac is the ideal location to get away from winter’s beginning. Tired travelers can relax on beautiful stretches of sand such as Punalu’u Beach (which is a stunning Black Sand) or Papakolea Beach (a unique green alternative to sand) and those who are more adventurous could take a walk in Akaka Falls State Park, or take a look at the more than 4,000-foot tall Kilauea volcano that is located in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. There’s a good chance you’ll be competing with other snowbirds during the month of December but notice hotels in Big Island are still affordable. Big Island are still consistently less expensive than the neighboring islands.
Banff
#4 in Best Places to Visit in December
The town is located at the base of the Canadian Rockies, Banff, Alberta is known for its breathtaking scenery and excellent snowboarding and skiing conditions. You can also take stunning Instagram photos of the beautiful townscape via on the Banff Gondola and its 360-degree observation deck on The Sulphur Mountain summit. After a long day of action, relax your muscles by relaxing into the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Be aware that daylight may be as short as eight hours during December and you should plan your trip according to the time of year.
Torres del Paine National Park
#5 in Best Places to Visit in December
In the southern part of Chilean Patagonia This national park is the chance to experience a once-in-a lifetime experience. Many times, it is referred to as one the most beautiful hiking spots around the globe It is where you can find turquoise lakes as well as dense forests, in addition to the huge Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. Although December is one of the months that Patagonia has its peak summer time, temperatures fall significantly after dark, which is why tourists should bring layers.
Quebec City
#6 in Best Places to Visit in December
It’s not difficult to fall in over this Canadian destination, particularly when it’s blanketed in fresh snow. You’ll be amazed by Old Montreal’s unique sights and music when it turns into a village for Christmas. You can also buy presents (or to yourself) within Quartier Petit-Champlain. Additionally, thanks to the 17th and 18th century design, Quebec City allows you to take in European art and culture without spending the money to fly across the Atlantic. Be sure to dress up. Temperatures can fall to below freezing during December.
Park City
#7 in Best Places to Visit in December
Fans of winter sports will enjoy traveling to Park City, Utah, in December when a lot of the resorts that are among the best in the area which include Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort, reopen for the ski season. Even if you’re not a keen skier or snowboarder, there are many other things to do in town. Get last-minute gifts, take a ride with Santa take a ride on the Town Lift in Historic Park City and catch a festive show on The Egyptian Theater or observe athletes training to compete in at the Winter Olympics at the Utah Olympic Park.
Dubai
#8 in Best Places to Visit in December
The temperatures in Dubai can be in the triple-digits throughout several months of the year, however the temperature cools substantially in December. If you’re planning to visit Dubai, the United Arab Emirates destination during this month will mean the comfort of a pleasant climate (think temperatures of around 70 degrees) and less rain showers. Be prepared to rub shoulders with travelers as you soak in the sun at Jumeirah Public Beach, shop at the massive Dubai Mall or stroll through the historical Bastakiya Quarter.
Jackson Hole
#9 in Best Places to Visit in December
Take a trip to the 50-mile-long Wyoming valley for a memorable winter getaway. In this valley, you’ll find excellent ski resorts, such as Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Resort. In addition, you can hunt for wildlife in the National Elk Refuge or go snowshoeing in Grand Teton National Park when you’re tired of the slopes. Be aware that the temperatures in December are at or below freezing throughout the day but often dip into single the night, so you’ll need to prepare appropriately.
Prague
#10 in Best Places to Visit in December
If you’re brave enough to face the cold, consider a trip to Prague to enjoy a relaxing and festive winter getaway. Prague turns into an enchanting winter scene around December, when snow-covered buildings and Christmas markets that sell everything from locally-made jewellery to toys to Christmas decorations. Families with children with them should arrive early in December, during the time that it’s the time when St. Nicholas Eve event occurs. This is a traditional holiday it is possible to see the Czech Republic’s version St. Nick, along with his angels guide and the devil, handing out treats and candy during a stroll through the city.
Mount Rainier National Park
#11 in Best Places to Visit in December
The Mount Rainier National Park’s breathtaking landscape gets even more stunning when coated in snow during winter. Certain roads and some areas within the Washington park will be closed for the season, however there are many chances to be outdoors and have fun during December. Based on how deep the snow gets, you could take part in a snowshoe hike led by a ranger or sledding around Paradise’s Paradise Snow Play Area, or go snowmobiling through on the Cougar Rock Campground or shred the snow off the backcountry slopes of Mount Rainier.
Adirondacks
#12 in Best Places to Visit in December
Outdoor lovers come to the Adirondacks each winter to enjoy the incredible snowboarding and skiing conditions. Whiteface Mountain is one of the most sought-after winter sports destinations due to its Eastern Seaboard’s highest vertical drop at 3,500 feet as well as the 11 lifts and 90 trails. Furthermore, this area of New York state houses Lake Placid which is home to several Olympic attractions, such as Lake Placid, the Olympic Jumping Complex and The Olympic Sports Complex and the Olympic Center.
Bahamas
#13 in Best Places to Visit in December
December is among the most sought-after months to travel to the Bahamas and with the right reasons. When this month arrives the risk of a hurricane is gone and it’s a great occasion to get outside. Begin your vacation by relaxing in one of Bahamas numerous beaches or take a dive or snorkel into the clear waters. Make sure to make time to take a boat trip to a private island which is where you can participate in fun things like dolphin encounters or swimming with wild porcupines.
Queenstown
#14 in Best Places to Visit in December
If you’re looking for a winter getaway which doesn’t include snow or sand, make an excursion towards Queenstown, New Zealand. Because Queenstown is situated at the Southern Hemisphere and it is in the summer time, which means that you’ll experience warmer temperatures and more favorable conditions for the world-renowned adventure sports. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city during the skydiving or paragliding experience or take the biggest jump of faith jumping bungee-style off on the Kawarau Bridge. If you’re seeking a less risky approach to seeing Queenstown visit, take an excursion on the Ben Lomond Track or ride the Skyline Gondola.
Sun Valley
#15 in Best Places to Visit in December
The first resort in America is still the top winter destination for everyone from the famous to newbies. Go to this Idaho resort in December for the best snowboarding and skiing on Sun Valley Resort, which has two mountains that cover more than 2000 acres of terrain, with 65 slopes. Bald Mountain is regarded to be one of the top ski resorts in the world. Dollar Mountain is great for beginner skiers. After a long day of soaring down the slopes of Sun Valley take a sleigh ride or a scavenger hunt, or any of the other seasonal activities. Also, check these Top 8 Places in New Hampshire for Fall.
