Best US Spots for Families in December: 10 Warm, Festive, and Snowy Getaways

Planning the Best US Spots for Families in December feels exciting and doable with a smart list. I picked ten places that shine with holiday magic, mild weather, or perfect snow. These spots balance kid fun, easy planning, and clear value for a family of four. I kept costs realistic, highlighted can’t-miss events, and built simple 3-day plans to save you time.

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Note on the map: For an interactive view, pin these ten destinations in a single Google Map. Add New York City, Orlando, Honolulu, Aspen, San Diego, Nashville, Charleston, Seattle, Austin, and Portland, then save the layer for your trip.

1) New York City, New York

New York’s holiday energy feels electric in December, and kids love it. Light displays, iconic trees, window displays, and skating rinks turn the city into a storybook. Crowds peak mid to late December, but planning helps you see the best.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Bryant Park Winter Village, Macy’s Santaland, Central Park sledding if it snows, American Museum of Natural History, and NYBG Holiday Train Show.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Midtown icons, tree at Rockefeller Center, ice skating at Bryant Park, Times Square lights after dinner.
  • Day 2: Central Park morning, American Museum of Natural History, holiday windows on Fifth Avenue.
  • Day 3: NYBG Holiday Train Show in the Bronx, pizza lunch, evening stroll at Hudson Yards lights.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $900 to $1,500 total for a midtown hotel room.
  • Food: $400 to $600.
  • Activities and transport: $250 to $400.
  • Total: $1,550 to $2,500.
• Getting there:
  • Three airports, frequent flights from major cities. Subway and buses work well. Driving is possible, but skip car use in Manhattan.
• Practical tips:
  • Stay in Midtown, Bryant Park, or Upper West Side for easy access.
  • Book holiday tickets 3 to 6 weeks ahead.
  • Pack layers, warm hats, and waterproof shoes.

2) Orlando, Florida

Orlando delivers mild weather, holiday overlays at theme parks, and stress-free park days if you go early in the month. December brings festive parades, lights, and character moments kids remember for years.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Disney parks holiday decor, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights, Universal’s Grinchmas and holiday parade, Disney Springs Tree Stroll.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Magic Kingdom, afternoon rest, fireworks.
  • Day 2: EPCOT for Festival of the Holidays, evening at Disney Springs.
  • Day 3: Universal Studios holiday parade, CityWalk lunch, pool time at resort.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $600 to $1,200 at a mid-tier on-site or nearby resort.
  • Food: $450 to $700.
  • Activities and tickets: $1,200 to $2,000.
  • Transportation: $100 to $250.
  • Total: $2,350 to $4,150.
• Getting there:
  • MCO has direct routes nationwide. Rental cars are easy, rideshares plentiful.
• Practical tips:
  • Stay on-site for early entry and park transit.
  • Book holiday events as soon as dates release.
  • Light layers for cool nights.

3) Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu pairs warm beaches with cheerful holiday events, perfect for a winter reset. Santa sometimes shows up on a surfboard, and the city glows with lights. Families get gentle hikes, easy beach days, and cultural moments.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Waikiki holiday lights, Honolulu City Lights, Pearl Harbor history for older kids, Diamond Head hike, kid-friendly luaus.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Waikiki beach day and sunset shave ice.
  • Day 2: Pearl Harbor visit in the morning, lunch near Ala Moana, evening holiday lights.
  • Day 3: Diamond Head hike, aquarium or zoo, luau dinner.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $900 to $1,800 for an ocean-adjacent hotel or condo.
  • Food: $450 to $700.
  • Activities: $150 to $350.
  • Transportation: $150 to $300 for local transport or car rental.
  • Total: $1,650 to $3,150 plus flights.
• Getting there:
  • Direct flights from West Coast hubs; connections from most cities.
• Practical tips:
  • Stay in Waikiki for walkability and transit options.
  • Book luaus and popular hikes early.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen and bring light sun shirts.

4) Aspen, Colorado

Aspen feels like a snow globe in December, with festive streets and gentle slopes for beginners. Kids can try skiing or tubing, then warm up by a fire with cocoa. The village setting makes moving around simple.

Photo by karim desouki

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Ski school for kids, ice skating at the Aspen Ice Garden, snow tubing, holiday lights on Main Street, sleigh rides.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Morning ski lesson, afternoon hot cocoa, evening stroll through town.
  • Day 2: Tubing and snow play, museum visit, family dinner with s’mores outside.
  • Day 3: Ice skating, scenic gondola ride, quiet rest at lodge.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $1,200 to $2,400 at a lodge or condo.
  • Food: $500 to $800.
  • Activities and rentals: $800 to $1,600 depending on lift tickets and lessons.
  • Transportation: $200 to $400.
  • Total: $2,700 to $5,200.
• Getting there:
  • Fly into ASE or drive from Denver. Shuttle services run regularly.
• Practical tips:
  • Book lessons and rentals 3 to 4 weeks out.
  • Hydrate and rest the first day to adjust to altitude.
  • Stay near the bus routes for quick mountain access.

5) San Diego, California

San Diego serves mild temps, ocean views, and a full calendar of holiday events. Families can split days between beaches, parks, and museums without feeling rushed.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Balboa Park December Nights, San Diego Zoo, waterfront holiday boat parades, La Jolla tide pooling.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Balboa Park museums in the morning, park lights in the evening.
  • Day 2: San Diego Zoo, picnic lunch, sunset at Coronado Beach.
  • Day 3: Tide pools at low tide, USS Midway Museum, casual waterfront dinner.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $600 to $1,200 near the beach or downtown.
  • Food: $400 to $650.
  • Activities and passes: $300 to $600.
  • Transportation: $150 to $300.
  • Total: $1,450 to $2,750.
• Getting there:
  • SAN is close to downtown. Easy drives from LA and Orange County.
• Practical tips:
  • Stay in Mission Bay, Coronado, or Little Italy for family convenience.
  • Pack layers for cool mornings and sunny afternoons.
  • Reserve museum entries on peak dates.

6) Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville mixes music, lights, and Southern comfort that feels tailor-made for families. December brings concerts, light displays, and a friendly downtown scene.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Cheekwood Holiday Lights, ice skating downtown, Country Music Hall of Fame exhibits, Gaylord Opryland holiday displays.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Downtown walk, museum visit, ice skating in the evening.
  • Day 2: Cheekwood gardens and lights, dinner near 12 South.
  • Day 3: Opryland holiday shows and riverwalk time.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $600 to $1,100.
  • Food: $350 to $600.
  • Activities: $200 to $450.
  • Transportation: $150 to $300.
  • Total: $1,300 to $2,450.
• Getting there:
  • BNA has strong domestic coverage. Driving from Atlanta, Louisville, or Memphis is simple.
• Practical tips:
  • Stay downtown or The Gulch for walkability.
  • Book light shows and ice skating in advance.
  • Jackets and hats for chilly nights.

7) Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s historic streets glow with wreaths and lanterns in December. Mild weather helps families mix learning with outdoor time, and the food scene works well for picky eaters.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Historic house tours, carriage rides, South Carolina Aquarium, festive markets, beach walks on Sullivan’s Island.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Carriage tour, City Market shopping, sunset waterfront park.
  • Day 2: Plantation or historic home visit, picnic in a park, hot chocolate stop.
  • Day 3: Aquarium morning, beach stroll, holiday market in the evening.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $600 to $1,200 in or near the Historic District.
  • Food: $400 to $650.
  • Activities: $200 to $400.
  • Transportation: $100 to $250.
  • Total: $1,300 to $2,500.
• Getting there:
  • CHS has good Southeast links. Easy drives from Savannah or Charlotte.
• Practical tips:
  • Pack comfy walking shoes for cobblestone streets.
  • Teach kids to treat historic sites with care.
  • Light layers for breezy afternoons.

8) Seattle, Washington

Seattle feels cozy in December, with bright markets, indoor science, and ferry rides for quick adventures. Evergreen trees, twinkling lights, and hot cocoa breaks fit the season.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Woodland Park Zoo lights, Pacific Science Center, Pike Place treats, short ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Pike Place morning, waterfront walk, evening zoo lights.
  • Day 2: Pacific Science Center, Space Needle views, hot chocolate stop.
  • Day 3: Bainbridge ferry trip, island stroll, return for dinner near the market.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $600 to $1,200 downtown or on the waterfront.
  • Food: $400 to $650.
  • Activities and transit: $200 to $450.
  • Total: $1,200 to $2,300.
• Getting there:
  • SEA has direct flights nationwide. Public transit and rideshares are easy.
• Practical tips:
  • Pack rain jackets, waterproof shoes, and warm layers.
  • Use transit passes to avoid parking stress.
  • Book timed entries for popular attractions.

9) Austin, Texas

Austin blends mild temps, live music, and big holiday lights. Families enjoy food truck meals, parks, and easy day plans that still feel special.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Zilker Park Trail of Lights, Texas State Capitol, Thinkery children’s museum, Barton Springs on warm days.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: Capitol tour, South Congress shops, food truck dinner.
  • Day 2: Zilker Park playtime, Trail of Lights in the evening.
  • Day 3: Thinkery morning, park picnic, mural photo stops.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $500 to $1,000.
  • Food: $350 to $600.
  • Activities: $150 to $300.
  • Transportation: $100 to $250.
  • Total: $1,100 to $2,150.
• Getting there:
  • AUS has strong domestic routes. Easy drives from San Antonio or Houston.
• Practical tips:
  • Book Trail of Lights tickets early.
  • Dress in layers. Days can feel warm, nights cool.
  • Stay downtown or Zilker area for easy access.

10) Portland, Oregon

Portland makes December feel creative and calm. Craft markets, science fun, and forest walks keep kids happy even on rainy days.

• Key family attractions and events:
  • Oregon Zoo Lights, OMSI science museum, Portland Saturday Market holiday stalls, Forest Park trails.
• 3-day sample itinerary:
  • Day 1: OMSI morning, lunch at a food cart pod, bookstore stop.
  • Day 2: Forest Park or Hoyt Arboretum, hot soup lunch, zoo lights in the evening.
  • Day 3: Saturday Market shopping, Pearl District treats, relaxed dinner.
• Cost breakdown (family of 4, 3 nights):
  • Lodging: $500 to $1,000.
  • Food: $350 to $600.
  • Activities and transit: $200 to $400.
  • Total: $1,050 to $2,000.
• Getting there:
  • PDX offers easy West Coast access. The MAX light rail helps you move around.
• Practical tips:
  • Bring umbrellas, waterproof boots, and layers.
  • Stay in the Pearl District or downtown for walkability.
  • Reserve zoo lights and museum tickets ahead.

Smart gear for December travel with kids

• Packable puffer jackets for space saving in carry-ons.
• Lightweight stroller travel bag to protect during flights.
• Portable power banks for phones and tablets.
• Leakproof water bottles for planes and parks.
• Compact first-aid kit with kids’ meds.

Amazon finds I like:

• Kids’ packable puffer jackets
• TSA-approved liquid travel bottle set
• Family-size portable charger
• Lightweight travel stroller bag

Practical planning notes

• Booking window: For mid-December, hold rooms 4 to 8 weeks ahead. For Christmas week, book 2 to 4 months out.
• Weather planning: Snow spots need waterproof layers, warm socks, and hand warmers. Warm spots still need light jackets at night.
• Budget tips: Bundle attractions with city passes, travel midweek when possible, and look for refundable rates.
• Transit choices: In big cities, go without a car. In smaller cities or beach towns, a rental makes life easier.

FAQ

• Is December a good time to visit New York City with kids?
  • Yes. The displays, markets, and ice skating feel magical. Plan for crowds and cold.
• Is Orlando crowded in December?
  • Early December is lighter. Christmas week is busy. Use early entry and reservations.
• Is Honolulu warm enough for beach days?
  • Yes. Expect 70s and low 80s, with cooler evenings.
• Will Aspen have snow in December?
  • Usually, yes. Early December is calmer, late December is peak and pricier.
• Is San Diego good for toddlers in winter?
  • Yes. Mild weather, stroller-friendly parks, and kid-first museums make it easy.
• What are the most affordable US winter getaways on this list?
  • Portland, Austin, and Nashville often offer strong off-peak value in early December.

Conclusion

These ten places rank among the Best US Spots for Families in December because they balance fun, comfort, and value. From ice rinks and holiday parades to warm beaches and gentle hikes, each city offers a fresh way to celebrate. Save your dates, sketch your 3-day plan, then build on it with local events that fit your crew. Ready for help planning a family Christmas vacation or an affordable US winter getaway? I can map dates, book rooms, and refine your itinerary. Visit ineedmyvacation.com to get started. For flexible booking and bundled flight + hotel deals, check current December family packages on Expedia. And if you’re still comparing warm vs. snowy options, Expedia’s family travel hub makes it easy to filter by weather, price, and kid-friendly amenities.

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