Best US Cities to Visit in December: Embrace the Holiday Spirit
December is the perfect time to soak in the festive cheer, enjoy twinkling lights, and experience the magic of the holiday season. The US offers a plethora of charming cities that transform into winter wonderlands during December, each with its own unique appeal. Here are some of the best US cities to visit in December:
1. New York City, New York:
The Big Apple is synonymous with holiday spirit, and for good reason! The city explodes with festive energy, transforming into a winter wonderland.
- Must-Dos:
- See the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A towering spruce adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.
- Skate at Bryant Park: Enjoy a magical ice-skating experience amidst the city's festive atmosphere.
- Experience the Radio City Christmas Spectacular: A dazzling, iconic show with the legendary Rockettes.
- Stroll through the Christmas markets: Shop for unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats at festive markets like the Grand Central Holiday Fair.
2. Chicago, Illinois:
Chicago embraces the holiday season with open arms, offering a delightful blend of festive charm and city life.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit Christkindlmarket: Experience the traditional German Christmas market with handcrafted gifts, festive food, and warm Glühwein.
- See the ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo: Explore the zoo illuminated by millions of twinkling lights.
- Attend the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: Witness the iconic Magnificent Mile adorned with spectacular holiday light displays.
- Enjoy ice skating at Millennium Park: Glide across the ice rink with the city skyline as your backdrop.
3. San Francisco, California:
While San Francisco may not be known for snow, it offers a unique and magical holiday experience with its own blend of warmth and festive cheer.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the Union Square Christmas Tree: Admire the massive tree adorned with twinkling lights in the heart of the city.
- Explore the Christmas markets at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: Shop for locally sourced holiday gifts and treats.
- See the "Illuminations" show at Pier 39: Enjoy a captivating light show featuring the iconic sea lions.
- Attend the "Christmas in the City" event: Immerse yourself in festive performances, crafts, and activities for all ages.
4. Boston, Massachusetts:
Boston's rich history and charming architecture create a beautiful backdrop for the holiday season, making it a perfect destination for a festive getaway.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the Boston Common Christmas Tree: Enjoy the city's main Christmas tree, located in the heart of Boston Common.
- Explore the Boston Public Garden: Stroll through the beautifully lit garden and admire the festive decorations.
- Attend the "Holiday on the Common" event: Enjoy festive performances, ice skating, and a variety of holiday activities.
- Visit the Boston Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker": Experience a captivating ballet performance at the Boston Opera House.
5. Charleston, South Carolina:
Charleston offers a unique blend of Southern charm and holiday spirit, making it a perfect destination for a cozy and festive escape.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the Charleston Christmas Market: Shop for handcrafted gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and experience the festive atmosphere.
- See the "Festival of Lights" at the South Carolina Aquarium: Enjoy a dazzling light show featuring marine life.
- Attend the "Holiday Festival of Lights" at James Island County Park: Explore a drive-through holiday lights display with millions of twinkling lights.
- Stroll through historic downtown Charleston: Admire the beautifully decorated homes and businesses.
6. Savannah, Georgia:
Savannah's historic architecture and charming squares create a picturesque setting for a festive getaway.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the "Holiday in the Park" event at Forsyth Park: Enjoy festive performances, crafts, and activities for all ages.
- See the "Lights of Christmas" at the Savannah Historic District: Explore the beautifully decorated historic district.
- Attend the "Christmas in the Squares" event: Enjoy a series of festive performances and activities throughout the city's squares.
- Visit the "Savannah Ghost Tours" for a spooky and festive experience: Explore the city's haunted history during the holiday season.
7. Nashville, Tennessee:
Nashville's lively music scene and Southern hospitality make it a vibrant destination for a festive getaway.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the "Christmas at Gaylord Opryland" event: Enjoy a spectacular light show, ice skating, and a variety of holiday activities.
- See the "Holiday Lights at the Nashville Zoo: Explore the zoo illuminated by millions of twinkling lights.
- Attend the "Christmas on the Square" event: Enjoy festive performances, crafts, and activities for all ages.
- Experience the "Christmas in the City" event: Enjoy a variety of festive performances and activities throughout the city.
8. New Orleans, Louisiana:
New Orleans embraces the holiday season with a unique blend of festive cheer and Cajun culture.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the "Celebration in the Oaks" event at City Park: Enjoy a dazzling light show featuring over a million lights.
- Attend the "Christmas in the French Quarter" event: Enjoy festive performances, crafts, and activities in the historic French Quarter.
- Experience the "Holiday in the Park" event at Audubon Zoo: Explore the zoo illuminated by millions of twinkling lights.
- Visit the "NOLA ChristmasFest" event: Enjoy a variety of festive performances, crafts, and activities for all ages.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada:
Las Vegas transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, with festive decorations and dazzling shows.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden: Admire the beautifully decorated holiday displays.
- Experience the "Winter Wonderland" at the LINQ Promenade: Enjoy festive decorations, a snow globe experience, and a variety of holiday activities.
- Attend the "Holiday Spectacular" at the Mirage: Enjoy a dazzling holiday show featuring the legendary Siegfried & Roy's white tigers.
- Enjoy the festive decorations and performances on the Las Vegas Strip: Experience the city's dazzling holiday displays.
10. Orlando, Florida:
Orlando offers a unique blend of festive cheer and theme park fun, making it a perfect destination for a family holiday getaway.
- Must-Dos:
- Visit the "Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party" at Walt Disney World: Enjoy festive parades, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets.
- Experience "Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort: Enjoy holiday-themed events, parades, and shows.
- Visit the "Holidays at SeaWorld" event: Enjoy festive decorations, shows, and a variety of holiday activities.
- Explore the "Christmas at ICON Park" event: Enjoy a variety of festive activities, including a Ferris wheel ride with spectacular city views.
No matter your preferences, there's a US city perfect for experiencing the magic of the holiday season in December. So, pack your bags, embrace the festive cheer, and create unforgettable memories in these enchanting destinations!
