North America · December
Best time to visit United States in December 🇺🇸
December in United States is shoulder season — mixed conditions. a shoulder-season pick — quieter and cheaper, but expect mixed weather or a few closures.
United States year at a glance
The absolute peak months for United States are April, May, September, October. December is a solid shoulder choice if you want fewer crowds.
What United States is like in December
Too big for one window. Northeast best May–Oct, Florida & southwest deserts best Nov–Apr, national parks Jun–Sep, Hawaii year-round.
Insider tip
US national park lodge reservations open 13 months ahead — set a reminder.
December by region in United States
New York & Northeast
shoulderBest May, Jun, Sep, Oct. Fall foliage late Sep–Oct.
Florida & Gulf coast
bestDec–Apr ideal. Summer hot & humid; hurricane risk Aug–Oct.
California (coast)
goodYear-round mild. Sep–Oct often warmest in SF.
Southwest (Vegas, Grand Canyon, Utah)
goodBest Mar–May & Sep–Nov. Avoid Jul–Aug heat.
Rocky Mountain national parks (Yellowstone, Glacier)
off-seasonJun–Sep only; many roads closed otherwise.
Pacific Northwest (Seattle, Portland)
shoulderJul–Sep dry & glorious. Wet rest of year.
Hawaii
goodYear-round; Apr–May & Sep–Oct sweet spot.
Alaska
goodJun–Sep for cruises & wildlife; Sep–Mar aurora.
Where to go in December instead
Thailand in December
A tale of two coasts and three seasons.
Philippines in December
7,000 islands, one dry season.
Cambodia in December
Cool & dry for Angkor.
Laos in December
Mekong country, cool dry winters.
UAE in December
Desert winters are magical; summers brutal.
Switzerland in December
Two seasons, both spectacular.