Are You Planning a Winter Getaway? Check Out the Cheapest Destinations for December!
Even though December is one of the most popular months, when it comes to traveling, it doesn’t mean that your trip has to be expensive. December offers a mix of festive celebrations and magic winter landscapes, and there are a lot of great available options for a budget-friendly getaway.
All the destinations found below offer a perfect blend of affordability and festive charm, allowing you to enjoy a memorable holiday time without breaking the bank. Are you looking for a vibrant city escape? Or for a cozy winter retreat? Don’t worry! We’ve got you! There’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in, and let’s explore the cheapest places to travel in December across the U.S. together!
9 Budget-Friendly Holiday Destinations
1. Denver, Colorado
The best part about Colorado is that there are a lot of free or low-cost attractions, making it an excellent choice for a cheap winter getaway. Denver offers a range of activities and the city’s downtown area is vibrant, contributing to a memorable December trip. If you choose to travel to Denver this December, you shouldn’t skip visiting the Denver Botanical Gardens, which were beautifully illuminated for the holidays. Another thing you can do is explore the Denver Art Museum because there are some free days available for each week. Make sure you check their program and benefit from all the advantages the city has to offer!
The historic Larimer Square is a tourist attraction you simply can’t miss because all the holiday lights and markets found nearby create a beautiful and cozy atmosphere for the winter season.
When it comes to accommodation, the best would be to look for budget hotels in the downtown area, this way, you’ll be close to the main attractions and you will not spend extra money on transportation.
2. Tampa, Florida
The city is known for its beautiful waterfronts, historic neighborhoods, and a thriving cultural scene. Ybor City offers a glimpse into the city’s past with historic buildings and vibrant nightlife. Tampa is also popular for the Busch Gardens, a world-class theme park that combines thrilling rides with a fascinating zoo.
That’s not all! For the sports enthusiasts, Tampa doesn’t disappoint. The city hosts some of the major sports events in the country, from NFL games with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to NHL matches with the Tampa Bay Lighting. The city’s endless activities provide a year-round destination that promises an unforgettable vacation.
3. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations and plenty of free and low-cost activities, especially during the holiday season. San Antonio offers a lot of great activities and the River Walk is always decorated beautifully during the holiday season. You shouldn’t miss the stunning views of the river and the unique atmosphere.
Make sure you visit the Alamo and explore the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Oh, and don’t forget about the festive lights and decorations during the annual Ford Holiday River Parade.
When you look for accommodation, stay close to the main attraction because there are a lot of budget-friendly options.
4. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a great destination during the winter holidays because you can benefit from off-season discounts for accommodation. Keep in mind that the weather is not predictable at all, and you’ll need to pack accordingly. Some days can even be perfect for short sleeves! So, the place can offer you a unique winter experience.
One of the most famous tourist attractions in Savannah is the American Prohibition Museum. The fantastic place tells the story of Prohibition in a very attractive way with 1,000 interesting artifacts in 12 galleries. We advise you to opt for a guided tour because this way you’ll be able to wear some special costumes from the Roaring Twenties, and a cocktail or a mocktail is included in the price. Sounds great, isn’t it?
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is truly spectacular in December! There are a lot of parades, fireworks, and interesting activities you should definitely explore. The French Quarter, the Jackson Square, and the Frenchmen Street are some of the most popular locations. All the beautiful holiday lights transform the entire atmosphere, making you feel like you are part of a fairytale. The Christmas period is, by far, the best time to visit New Orleans, especially because of all the activities that are taking place on the streets.
The entire experience will charge your batteries preparing you for the new year! How does it sound? Check out the city’s website because there you can find all the details you need about this period’s program.
6. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is known as the Emerald City because it combines natural beauty with a vibrant urban life. Seattle is surrounded by lush evergreen forests, mountains, and water, transforming it into a paradise for nature lovers.
Seattle’s cultural scene is truly impressive, with world-class museums such as the Museum of Pop Culture and the Seattle Art Museum. The city’s music history is rich, being the birthplace of grunge and home to legendary musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana.
Are you a coffee enthusiast? If the answer is yes, a visit to the original Starbucks store at Pike Place Market is a must. With its unique blend of natural wonders and urban sophistication, Seattle is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. What? Are you already booking a hotel? Ha, ha! Keep in mind that if you make the reservation as early as possible, you can find really great deals. So, good luck with that!
7. Las Vegas, Nevada
When we think about Las Vegas we also think about excitement and entertainment. It’s the city of endless possibilities, known as the Entertainment Capital of the World. The Strip, a 4.2-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard is home to some of the most famous casinos, hotels, and resorts in the world. Each resort offers its own unique theme and attractions, from the Venetian’s gondola rides to the Bellagio’s spectacular fountain shows.
Don’t forget that Las Vegas is also a getaway to stunning natural attractions such as Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam. No matter which activities you opt for in this city, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable adventure.
Keep in mind that this destination can be a little pricey but it has been shown that December is a great time for some special offers and discounts. So, good luck with that!
8. Asheville, North California
You should never worry about accommodation in Asheville, because there are a lot of affordable available options! In December, Asheville basically becomes a winter wonderland. The Blue Ridge Mountains contribute a lot to the stunning views. Make sure you explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the Biltmore Estate, and check out the River Arts District. And… don’t forget about Asheville’s winter festivals and holiday markets which are also worth a visit!
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a very special place because it offers a mix of historic sites, beautiful architecture, and really affordable options. It’s a great budget-friendly destination and is perfect for a family trip!
Charleston’s winter decorations are truly breathtaking and combined with the city’s historic charm, it creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Charleston City Market is a nice spot you shouldn’t miss. Also, make sure to visit the Battery and Waterfront Park, and enjoy a self-guided tour of the historic district. Make sure you look for affordable bed-and-breakfast hotels in the historic district. Do it as early as you can, since the city can become a little bit crowded as we are approaching the holidays.
We hope we convinced you that a family trip would be a great idea before the new year starts! Here is a very good laptop backpack you’ll definitely need for your vacation. It can be found on Amazon and has amazing reviews. The best part about it is probably that it has a USB charging port and is specially designed to be anti-theft. Check it out right now!
Before leaving, make sure you check out another travel-related article. It’s about the things that are often stolen from hotels. Be honest! Have you ever stolen something from a luxurious hotel room? Don’t worry! We won’t share your secret! Ha, ha! Check this out: Top 8 Things Stolen From Hotels.
