Best States to Visit in December: Winter Magic & Holiday Cheer

While technically not a state, the nation’s capital provides an unmatched December experience. The National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse creates a stunning centerpiece for holiday celebrations, with nightly musical performances and elaborate decorations representing each state and territory. The surrounding Presidents Park offers perfect photo opportunities with the White House as a backdrop.

The Smithsonian museums take on special character during the holiday season, with the National Museum of American History displaying seasonal artifacts from American holiday celebrations throughout history. The National Air and Space Museum‘s planetarium presents special programs about the Star of Bethlehem, while the U.S. Botanic Garden creates elaborate holiday displays with model trains running through miniature replicas of the city’s landmarks.

Georgetown’s historic streets transform into a shopping wonderland, with holiday markets and boutiques decorated for the season. The Kennedy Center presents “The Nutcracker” performed by the Washington Ballet, while neighborhoods across the city compete in elaborate light displays. The National Cathedral’s holiday concerts provide unforgettable musical experiences in a magnificent setting.

Book a stay at the Arlo Hotel and enjoy a private balcony, fitness center, an in-house Spanish restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and (if you decide to visit in summer instead of December) a rooftop swimming pool.

Take an evening sightseeing bus tour and enjoy lots of beautiful Christmas lights in addition to the regular attractions.

Check out the world-class Museum of the Bible and see historic manuscripts and artifacts from ancient Greece and Judea.

New Mexico embraces its unique cultural heritage during December with distinctive holiday celebrations. Santa Fe’s Plaza transforms for the Las Posadas celebration, recreating Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging with a candlelit procession. The city’s famous Canyon Road becomes magical on Christmas Eve during the Farolito Walk, when thousands of paper lanterns light the historic art district.

Taos combines Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo holiday traditions in its Yuletide celebration. The historic Taos Pueblo, decorated with pine boughs and farolitos, hosts special ceremonies combining Catholic and Native traditions. The nearby Taos Ski Valley offers excellent early-season skiing, while the town’s numerous art galleries host special holiday exhibitions.

Albuquerque’s River of Lights at the ABQ BioPark Botanical Garden creates one of the largest holiday light displays in the Southwest. The city’s Old Town Plaza celebrates with traditional New Mexican holiday events, while the nearby Petroglyph National Monument offers perfect hiking weather for exploring ancient rock art.

Maine embraces its winter character in December as coastal towns celebrate the holiday season with maritime flair. Portland’s historic Old Port district transforms into a shopping destination, with local boutiques and galleries offering unique gifts. The Victoria Mansion, elaborately decorated in Victorian holiday style, provides a glimpse into Christmas past.

Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude celebrates the season with tree lightings, carol singing, and Santa arriving by lobster boat. The town’s famous Calendar of Events includes holiday house tours, craft fairs, and festive meals in historic settings. The nearby beaches offer dramatic winter views, while cozy inns provide perfect retreats from the weather.

The Boothbay Harbor Region’s Gardens Aglow transforms the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens into a wonderland of lights, creating New England’s largest light display. The L.L.Bean flagship store in Freeport operates 24/7 for holiday shopping, while the surrounding village offers a perfect small-town holiday atmosphere. The state’s numerous ski resorts, including Sugarloaf and Sunday River, typically open all terrain by December.

Wisconsin fully embraces winter festivities in December as snow transforms the landscape. Milwaukee’s German heritage shines during the holiday season with its Christkindlmarket, offering traditional European holiday market experiences complete with mulled wine and seasonal treats. The Mitchell Park Domes present special holiday floral displays, while the Milwaukee Public Museum’s Streets of Old Milwaukee take on special character with period holiday decorations.

Madison’s Olbrich Botanical Gardens create holiday magic with their annual Holiday Express flower and model train show. The nearby Capitol Square hosts holiday markets, while the Overture Center for the Arts presents seasonal performances. The city’s numerous craft breweries offer special winter releases perfect for warming up after outdoor activities.

Door County’s winter character emerges as small towns celebrate with historical Christmas celebrations. Fish Creek’s Victorian Christmas includes progressive holiday dinners in historic inns, while Ephraim’s Christmas in the Village recreates Norwegian holiday traditions. Peninsula State Park offers excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while eagle watching along the Mississippi River reaches its peak.

Check out The Abbey Resort in Lake Geneva, an iconic resort featuring the full-service AVANI Spa, a marina with boat rentals, balcony and patio views, multiple dining options, an adults-only indoor swimming pool, an arcade, a fitness center, and ice skating.

Tennessee provides a perfect blend of mountain winter and southern hospitality in December. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge transform into holiday destinations with millions of lights decorating the towns and the Smoky Mountain Winterfest celebration. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas features special shows and elaborate decorations, while the surrounding national park offers peaceful winter hiking opportunities.

Nashville embraces the season with the Gaylord Opryland Resort‘s Country Christmas celebration, featuring ice sculptures, elaborate decorations, and special performances. The Ryman Auditorium hosts holiday-themed concerts, while the city’s numerous honky-tonks add seasonal tunes to their repertoires. The Belle Meade Plantation presents historical holiday celebrations with period decorations and special tours.

Memphis’s Graceland celebrates Elvis’s love of Christmas with special tours and decorations. The Memphis Zoo hosts Zoo Lights, while the Pink Palace Museum features holiday exhibits and its famous Enchanted Forest. Beale Street adds holiday flair to its blues traditions, creating a unique celebration of Memphis culture.