27 Best places to visit in December in USA with kids
Planning a family getaway in December? Look no further! The United States offers endless opportunities for magical winter family travel. Whether you’re seeking snowy adventures, holiday festivities, or sunny beaches, there’s something for everyone. December is an ideal time for bonding, exploring, and creating treasured memories with your children.
This post highlights the 27 best places to visit in December in USA with kids across the USA. We’ll cover everything from bustling theme parks to serene national parks, helping you make the most of your winter vacation with kids.
Why December is Perfect for Family Travel
December is a magical time for family travel, especially in the United States. The holiday season brings a sense of excitement, wonder, and joy, creating memorable experiences for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re seeking snow-capped mountains, holiday-themed activities, or sunny beach destinations, December offers a wide range of family-friendly travel opportunities. With school breaks, fewer crowds (outside peak holiday weeks), and the festive spirit in the air, it’s the perfect time to explore new destinations or revisit favorite spots.
What Makes the USA Ideal for Kids’ Winter Getaways
The USA boasts diverse landscapes and climates, offering something for every type of family vacation. Whether you’re looking for winter sports, magical Christmas experiences, or sunny beach days, the U.S. has it all. From theme parks and national parks to snowy mountain resorts and beach towns, the country offers varied experiences that cater to different interests and age groups, making it an ideal destination for family vacations during December.
27 Best places to visit in December in USA with kids
Theme Parks and Attractions
1. Walt Disney World, Florida
Walt Disney World in Orlando is a top pick for families looking to enjoy the magic of the holiday season. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas-themed parades, decorations, and special holiday events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Kids will love meeting their favorite Disney characters dressed in holiday attire, experiencing festive shows, and enjoying the beautiful light displays.
2. Universal Studios Hollywood, California
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a winter wonderland of its own with the “Grinchmas” celebration and special holiday events. Families can enjoy festive decorations, meet the Grinch and his friends, and take part in holiday-themed shows and activities. The park’s rides, including those based on popular movies like “Jurassic Park” and “Harry Potter,” are sure to thrill kids of all ages.
3. Legoland Florida Resort
For families with younger children, Legoland Florida Resort offers an enchanting holiday experience, complete with festive decorations, themed activities, and even a holiday bricktacular. Kids can enjoy building special holiday-themed creations, taking a ride through the Christmas Village, and meeting Lego Santa.
Winter Wonderland Experiences
4. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a quintessential winter destination, offering snow-covered landscapes, world-class skiing, and cozy resorts. Families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice skating, as well as magical experiences like sleigh rides through snow-covered forests. Aspen’s charming downtown area offers winter-themed shopping, dining, and entertainment perfect for families.
5. Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California
Lake Tahoe, with its stunning alpine scenery, is another excellent winter destination for families. Both California and Nevada sides offer family-friendly ski resorts with kid-focused programs, as well as winter activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing. Families can also enjoy the picturesque beauty of the lake during winter months, complete with cozy cabins and holiday festivities.
6. North Pole, Alaska
For a truly magical experience, the North Pole in Alaska offers a real-life Christmas adventure. Visit Santa Claus House, where kids can meet Santa year-round, and experience festive light displays, gift shops, and holiday decorations. Families can also enjoy winter activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and visits to nearby reindeer farms.
City Escapes for Families
7. New York City, New York
New York City in December is a must-visit destination, with its iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, and ice skating at Bryant Park. Families can enjoy holiday-themed performances like the Nutcracker ballet, take a carriage ride through Central Park, and shop for unique gifts at holiday markets.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a vibrant city during the winter, offering an exciting mix of indoor and outdoor attractions for kids. The Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza is a family favorite, offering German-inspired holiday treats and crafts. Kids can also visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, which hosts a “ZooLights” event with festive light displays and holiday activities.
9.Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is filled with seasonal charm, from the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony to the holiday displays at the Smithsonian museums. Kids can enjoy the dazzling holiday lights at the U.S. Botanic Garden and visit the ice rink at the Sculpture Garden. The city’s historic monuments and museums offer plenty of educational fun during winter break.
National Parks and Natural Beauty
10. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon offers a quieter experience in December, with fewer crowds and cooler weather. Families can enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon covered in light dustings of snow. The park offers a variety of kid-friendly activities, including ranger-led programs, short hikes, and scenic viewpoints.
11. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a winter wonderland, with snowy landscapes, hot springs, and geysers steaming against the cold air. Families can take a guided snowcoach tour or enjoy winter hiking and wildlife viewing. The park offers unique opportunities to see bison, elk, and wolves in their winter habitat.
12. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
While the Smoky Mountains are known for their misty, fog-covered mornings, the winter months bring snow-capped peaks and frozen waterfalls, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for families. You can enjoy winter hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, nearby towns, are also great family-friendly stops.
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Holiday-Themed Destinations
13. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (Christmas Town)
Bethlehem is known as “Christmas City” and offers an enchanting holiday experience for families. The city hosts a Christmas market with local crafts, holiday food, and live entertainment. Kids can also enjoy a visit to the Christmas Museum or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets adorned with holiday lights.
14. Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, a Bavarian-inspired village in the Cascade Mountains, is transformed into a Christmas wonderland in December. The town hosts a “Winter Wassail” festival, where families can enjoy carolers, festive parades, and ice sculptures. Leavenworth’s Alpine-style architecture and beautiful lights make it a magical destination for kids.
15. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, often referred to as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” is a fantastic family destination during the holiday season. The town hosts the annual “Zehnder’s Snowfest,” a winter celebration filled with ice carvings, snow sculptures, and family activities. The highlight is the Christmas-themed shops and the famous Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.
Beaches and Warm Weather Getaways
16. San Diego, California
San Diego is the perfect warm-weather escape in December. The city offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and LEGOLAND California. For a festive twist, visit Seaport Village’s holiday decorations and take a harbor cruise to see the Christmas lights along the waterfront.
17. Maui, Hawaii
Maui offers the ideal blend of relaxation and adventure for families looking to escape the cold. The island’s beaches are perfect for lounging or participating in water activities like snorkeling, whale watching, or surfing lessons. Families can also explore Haleakalā National Park and enjoy the local holiday celebrations, like the Maui “Festival of Lights.”
18. Key West, Florida
Key West provides a sunny getaway with an island vibe, perfect for families who want to enjoy warm weather. During December, the island hosts various holiday events, including a lighted boat parade and holiday concerts. Families can visit the Ernest Hemingway Home, enjoy water sports, or explore the colorful Old Town.
Adventure Destinations for Kids
19. Moab, Utah
Moab offers an adventure-packed family vacation with breathtaking landscapes, including Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. In December, the weather is cooler, making outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and off-road jeep tours more enjoyable. Kids will love exploring the natural rock formations and the chance to stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the U.S.
20. White Mountains, New Hampshire
For families seeking outdoor adventures in December, the White Mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking. Kids can take sleigh rides or enjoy snow tubing at one of the many family-friendly resorts. The region is also home to scenic drives, quaint villages, and winter festivals.
21. Great Wolf Lodge (Various Locations)
For indoor fun and adventure, Great Wolf Lodge offers a one-stop destination with water parks, themed rooms, and kid-friendly activities. The indoor water park is a hit during colder months, providing a warm escape while enjoying wave pools, water slides, and splash zones.
Budget-Friendly Family Destinations
22. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge is a great budget-friendly destination for families, offering attractions like Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During December, the town is decked out with holiday lights, parades, and festive events, making it an affordable and fun holiday getaway.
23. Branson, Missouri
Branson offers a wide variety of affordable family-friendly entertainment, including music shows, theme parks, and natural attractions. During the holidays, the town features elaborate Christmas light displays and festive events. Branson’s theme parks, like Silver Dollar City, host special holiday celebrations that are perfect for kids.
24. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is a great budget-friendly option for families interested in history and culture. The historic district is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and families can enjoy learning about Colonial history while experiencing holiday events like the Grand Illumination at Colonial Williamsburg.
Lesser-Known Gems for Families
25. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s stunning red rock landscapes are just as awe-inspiring in December, when the cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable. Families can hike, take jeep tours, or explore the artsy downtown area. The holiday lights and events
around Sedona’s Chapel of the Holy Cross offer a unique twist on traditional holiday celebrations.
26. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston offers a charming holiday experience with its historic homes, beautifully decorated for the season. Families can take a carriage ride through the historic district, enjoy festive markets, and visit plantations with special holiday-themed events. The city’s mild December weather makes it a pleasant escape.
27. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a lesser-known gem for families seeking a peaceful and cultural holiday getaway. The city’s unique adobe architecture is beautifully highlighted by holiday lights, and families can enjoy arts and crafts festivals, live performances, and visits to museums like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
Travel Tips for December Family Trips
Packing for Kids in Winter
Pack layers, waterproof gear, and warm clothing for winter destinations. Don’t forget gloves, hats, scarves, and snow boots for snowy adventures. For warmer climates, pack sunscreen, swimwear, and hats.
Managing Travel Costs
Book early to get the best deals on flights and accommodations. Look for family-friendly hotel deals or vacation packages that include activities.
Keeping Kids Entertained During Long Journeys
Bring a variety of travel-friendly activities such as books, games, coloring materials, or downloadable content on tablets to keep kids entertained.
FAQs About Family Travel in December
Best Time to Book Travel for December?
Book flights and accommodations as early as possible to secure the best rates, particularly for popular destinations and holiday weeks.
Are Winter Destinations Safe for Kids?
Yes, winter destinations are generally safe for kids. However, ensure safety measures are in place for activities like skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
What Are Great Indoor Activities for Kids During Winter Travel?
Indoor museums, aquariums, and family-friendly shows are excellent choices. Many cities also offer winter festivals with indoor activities.
Can We Travel Internationally in December with Kids?
While international travel is possible, it may involve higher costs and longer flights. Be sure to check travel restrictions, especially during the winter season.
How to Find Family-Friendly Accommodations?
Look for hotels with family suites, kid-friendly amenities, and convenient locations near attractions. Vacation rentals and resorts often offer the best options for families.
What Should We Pack for Beach Destinations in December?
For beach getaways, pack light clothing, sunscreen, swimwear, and comfortable footwear. A lightweight jacket might also be useful for cooler evenings.
Conclusion
From snowy slopes to sandy beaches, the USA offers endless options for family-friendly December vacations. This list of destinations caters to adventurers, holiday lovers, and everyone in between.
Which destination is next on your family’s travel list? Share your favorites below, or check out our Winter Packing List for Family Travel to get started!
