Wintertime spurs memories of Santa Clause, holiday lights and carolers – but what if it is your one and only time to escape for the year? No family, no snow, just a relaxing getaway? Where to Travel in December 2020?
Maybe this was your idea of December in the past and 2020 brought you a whole new set of challenges, but what if you could still get your travel ideals fulfilled while still saying safe amid this wild pandemic? Well, you can, and we can help you with the how.
Top 6 Places To Travel In December 2020
- New York City, NY
While it may seem cliché, there is a reason so many movies are filmed in New York City in the winter. It’s enchanting, it’s vibrant and yes, while it is cold, there is something to the air that feels very festive. Whether you want to hit all the touristy hot spots, or just take in the energy of the city, New York has much to offer.
A horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, marveling at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, ice skating at Bryant Park, or taking in a world-famous show or meal – New York City has options for just about any visitor. You’ll want to bundle up as temperatures can get pretty low, but you’ll always remember a winter visit to the Big Apple. Just make sure to plan around any COVID-19 closures and always have a mask or two handy.
- Park City, UT
Home to world-famous skiing, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy in this winter wonderland. If you’re ready to bundle up and experience some snowy adventures, you might be interested in snow-shoeing in the Unitas, snow-biking through Park City’s trail system, visiting the Alf Engen Ski Museum or fly-fishing (yes, in the snow!).
Park City is a cultural treat and there are a variety of spa treatments, restaurants and shops to check out during your stay. The holiday lights around town are an absolute joy while you gaze at the snowflakes that surround you. A nice little mountain escape, you’ll feel the winter spirit as stroll the streets and meet the interesting locals. Pack your warmest weather essentials though, because you’ll want to enjoy all the city’s offerings without shivering.
- Aspen, CO
Not only reserved for the rich or celebrities, Aspen can be enjoyed with any budget during December. You can shell out some extra cash for its renowned skiing and resorts, or you can just cozy up by the fireplace at one of the many inns or cabins available. Sleigh rides through downtown are a must for any winter wanderer, and myriad charms can be purchased at the local shops, galleries of contemporary art museums.
Aspen is also known for its exciting tubing experience where you can raise family and friends down the mountainside in an inflated tube or just cruise down on some rented sleds. You’ll be feeling festive with the fresh snow, friendly faces and fabulous winter attire in the local boutiques. Aspen has long been a favorite winter locale and 2020 may just bring more affordable pricing and fewer crowds.
- Miami, FL
If ice and snow aren’t your thing, Miami just may be the perfect destination for December. The sunny skies and low humidity will have you racing to the beach to enjoy sparsely populated sands and 70-degree weather. But if you want to bring the mistletoe to Miami, there is also a luminous lantern festival, Santa’s Enchanted Forest or a variety of holiday art fairs to take in.
With so many iconic art deco boutiques and flavorful eateries, you won’t miss a second of Miami’s cultural vibe this time of year. Miami has a thriving music scene and it wouldn’t be strange to see a variety of pop up events, art installations or public performances wooing the onlookers. Just make sure to pack sunscreen and shorts, because this won’t be a typical snowy December.
- Las Vegas, NV
You may not be able to lounge by the city’s famous pool sides which line the Las Vegas Strip, but crowds in the casinos or at the world-famous shows tend to be less this time of year. Nearly every day is sunny in December in Sin City, but the desert air can bring a chill at night, so be sure to pack at least one jacket. Take in the gorgeous Bellagio fountains, or hike up to Red Rock, Las Vegas has so many options – and not just for adults!
There are Grand Canyon helicopter rides, tours of the Hoover Dam and it’s a great time to hit Lake Las Vegas or Lake Mead for boating, fishing or swimming. But if you’re down to gamble, Las Vegas is probably the best place in the world to try your hand. Regardless of the activity you decide on, you’ll be going home winning big, since this is the entertainment capital of the world!
- San Diego, CA
Is the beach calling your name? Grab your sunnies and hit the sand in San Diego! No snow shoveling, no window scraping and no scarves are required. For Californians, the air might feel brisk, but for outsiders it is absolutely perfect. You can wear shorts and flip flops every day, visit the sparsely populated oceanfront this time of year, and still enjoy a little holiday fever with holiday lights in the Gaslamp District or colorful boat parades at Shelter Island.
San Diego is an ideal destination any time of year, but December brings especially good cheer. Sit out on the patio at one of the city’s best eateries, cruise the palm tree studded area of La Jolla or take in a great game of golf. All you really require is an overnight bag and appetite for vitamin D.
Conclusion
If you’re planning on jetting about this holiday season, December still holds a lot of promise in all these locations. You can still feel merry and bright even away from the comfort of your stocking-lined home. 2020 may have been a little rocky, but the silver lining is affordable travel and less dense crowds in these well-known hotspots.
