The best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to have an epic winter adventure.
Whether you want sunshine, beaches, or festive cities covered in lights, these destinations make December travel affordable and cool (or warm!).
These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget.
Arizona
Arizona is one of the best U.S. places to visit in December on a budget because it delivers sunny skies, red rock views, and badass desert adventures without winter prices.
- Phoenix: Hike Camelback Mountain for sunrise, then explore the Desert Botanical Garden’s holiday light display.
- Sedona: Take the scenic Red Rock Loop drive and browse local art galleries surrounded by glowing red cliffs.
- Flagstaff: Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or stroll historic downtown for small-town Christmas charm.
Affordable flights, outdoor fun, and free hiking trails make Arizona an easy winter win.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins: Right on the South Rim by Bright Angel Trailhead with simple historic rooms and dining for easy sunrise to sunset rim time.
- Maswik Lodge: Stay a quick quarter mile from the rim in the pines with a food court and pizza pub, plus fast shuttle access around Grand Canyon Village.
- Yavapai Lodge: Base yourself in Market Plaza near the Visitor Center with a restaurant and coffee bar + quick rides to the rim.
Read: Full Guide to the Grand Canyon
The Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico is a warm, sparkling stretch of ocean tucked between the U.S., Mexico, and Cuba.
As a native Texan, I’ve explored just about every stretch of the Gulf of Mexico over the years.
This is one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget, thanks to its mild weather, beach towns, and low off-season prices.
Think of it as The South’s hidden tropical getaway: easy to reach, budget-friendly, and perfect for winter beach days without leaving the country.
These cute south coastal towns keep things warm, relaxing, and budget-friendly.
- Galveston, Texas: Tour Moody Gardens’ Festival of Lights and hit the shopping and bar scene on The Strand (one of the few places in Texas that allows open containers).
- Corpus Christi, Texas: Visit the Texas State Aquarium and explore Padre Island National Seashore.
- Biloxi, Mississippi: Get a tan at the beach or walk the Biloxi Lighthouse Pier at sunset.
- Pensacola, Florida: Relax on sugar-white beaches or hit up the National Naval Aviation Museum.
- Mobile, Alabama: Check out the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and stroll through downtown’s oak-lined streets, OR hit the beach.
Read More: Best Beaches in Pensacola or Where to Eat in Pensacola
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget because hotel prices drop and the city is literally glowing with holiday cheer.
Other fun but affordable things to do include taking a classic steamboat cruise, walking through the French Quarter and its merriness, touring an infamous NOLA cemetery, and eating some of the best food in the country.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Dauphine Orleans Hotel (French Quarter): Sitting on a quiet street just steps from Bourbon, the historic Dauphine Orleans hotel includes breakfast, a pool, and rooms with balconies.
- The Quisby (Garden District): A super cute hostel with style. The Quisby is clean, affordable, and near the St. Charles streetcar line.
- Le Richelieu Hotel: A historic hotel in the French Quarter thats budget but doesn’t feel it with a saltwater pool. Read my unbiased review of Le Richelieu.
Peep my guide to seeing NOLA for cheap 👉 How to Visit New Orleans on a Budget!
Or check out–
- Guide to New Orleans French Quarter
- 13 Iconic Things To Do in NOLA’s Garden District
- Food Guide to New Orleans
- Bourbon Street Bucket List
- 5 New Orleans Cemeteries to Visit
Texas
Texas experiences some of its best weather all year in December, making it one of the best places to visit in the U.S.A. on a budget.
- Dallas: Visit the Dallas Arboretum’s Christmas Village or enjoy seasonal pop-ups around town. Read my Guide to Dallas.
- Fort Worth: My hometown! Explore the Stockyards or hike Eagle Mountain Park for views that feel miles from the city. Read my Guide to Fort Worth.
- Austin: Catch live music on Sixth Street, explore Barton Springs, or enjoy the Trail of Lights at Zilker Park. Read Austin on a Budget.
- Waco: Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos for holiday displays, local shopping, and cozy coffee stops. Read my Guide to Waco.
Texas has tons of free outdoor festivals and parks that bring all the fun without an unfestive price tag:
- Kiest Park Holiday Festival (Dallas): free community holiday festival in December featuring lights and festivities.
- Christmas on the Square (Garland near Dallas Fort Worth): free holiday light show and local shops open late.
- Christmas Nights of Lights (Fredericksburg, Hill Country): Main Street of one of Hill Country’s best small towns lights up with festive decor.
- Light the Night Parade & Holiday Events (Fredericksburg): Free parade, live music, and festivities in the heart of the Hill Country.
Read: 33 Best Places to Visit for Christmas in the U.S.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
St. Simons Island is a beautiful alternative to expensive beach towns and one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget.
Enjoy peaceful walks under moss-draped oaks and wide beaches without crowds. Visit East Beach, the island’s most popular stretch of sand, or head to Gould’s Inlet for quiet birdwatching.
Explore the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and shop at local boutiques near the Pier Village, where December weather is mild enough for biking and shell searching!
Where to stay on a budget:
- Ocean Inn & Suites: Just a 5-minute walk from the Pier and Lighthouse, with free parking, excellent for a central stay.
- Saint Simons Inn by the Lighthouse: A short stroll to the Lighthouse Museum and pier, with free continental breakfast.
- Best Western Plus St. Simons: Located just off the main street near the shops and beach, it includes free breakfast, free parking, and solid guest reviews for location and cleanliness.
Read: Best U.S. National Parks to Visit in the Winter
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago might be cold, but it’s one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget because flight prices and hotel rates drop dramatically.
First off, don’t skip the obligatory photo at The Bean in Millennium Park.
Bundle up and explore the Christkindlmarket, a European-style Christmas market filled with ornaments and mulled wine.
Ice skate at Maggie Daley Park, then visit The Art Institute of Chicago to warm up and admire the city’s festive decorations.
Cheap flights plus endless free attractions make Chicago an easy winter pick.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Best Western Grant Park Hotel: On Michigan Avenue across from Grant Park with quick walks to Museum Campus.
- Ohio House Motel: Central River North spot that includes free parking and puts you a short walk from the Mag Mile and dining.
- Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago: South Loop base one block from Millennium Park with easy access to the L and museums.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs is one of the most underrated and best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget (or any time of the year TBH).
Soak in the thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park, where bathhouses line the historic downtown.
Take a walk on Bathhouse Row, explore nearby hiking trails, or drive up Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the Ouachitas.
In December, the Downtown holiday lights add a magical glow to tiny Hot Springs.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Red Roof Inn Hot Springs: Pet-friendly, free parking and WiFi, and just steps from downtown hiking trails and Bathhouse Row.
- Rodeway Inn Hot Springs National Park Area: Basic but solid choice near the National Park entrance with free continental breakfast and easy access to downtown.
- The Hotel Hot Springs: In downtown Hot Springs, with a complimentary shuttle. Here, you’re within walking distance of shops, dining, and the historic baths.
The Everglades, Florida
The Everglades is one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget because it’s dry season (read: fewer bugs, cooler temps, and lower prices).
To save money, join a guided tour instead of renting private boats.
Explore Everglades National Park by airboat to spot alligators and tropical birds, or walk the Anhinga Trail for an easy, scenic route. Bring binoculars and watch wildlife at Shark Valley.
Read my Guide to the Florida Everglades.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Travelodge by Wyndham Florida City (Florida City): Free hot breakfast, pool, microwave, and fridge in rooms, and easy access to the park entrance.
- Fairway Inn Florida City (Florida City): Clean stay with free parking and just 10 minutes by car to Everglades National Park.
- Everglades City Motel (Everglades City): Nearby for day trips into the park, updated rooms, boating access, and walking distance to restaurants.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City is one of the best places to visit in December in U.S.A on a budget because it mixes festive charm with low travel costs.
Visit the Bricktown Canal Lights, a free light display that transforms the canal into a glowing winter walkway or stop by Myriad Botanical Gardens to skate at Devon Ice Rink under the skyline.
Explore the Oklahoma City National Memorial, which is always free to visit, and Scissortail Park, where you can enjoy winter concerts and pop-up markets for free or cheap.
As a Texan, I’ve been there so many times; it’s basically DFW’s unofficial sister city, close enough for an easy weekend getaway several times per year.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Sleep Inn & Suites Bricktown: Located in the hip neighborhood of Bricktown with free parking and free hot breakfast.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma City‑Bricktown: At 300 E Sheridan Ave in downtown OKC, it has a hot breakfast, indoor pool, and is steps from the canal and parking.
- Hilton Garden Inn Oklahoma City Bricktown: Situated in Bricktown with great rates, an on-site restaurant, and a great base for exploring downtown without splurging.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is one of the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget because it’s beautiful and affordable compared to high-end ski towns. Only about an hour from Denver, Colorado Springs is milder yet still snowy enough for mountain magic.
Start with a visit to Garden of the Gods, a free public park filled with towering red rock formations and scenic walking trails that look even more dramatic dusted with snow.
For something festive, check out Acacia Park’s ice-skating rink, where public sessions are inexpensive and filled with holiday lights and music.
With its combo of outdoor beauty and small-town charm, Colorado Springs feels festive without the price tag.
Where to stay on a budget:
- Modern Motel: Located downtown with free parking and WiFi, Modern Motel has low rates and walkable access to restaurants and bars.
- Quality Inn & Suites Garden of the Gods: Just west of downtown near major attractions, this hotel includes free breakfast and parking.
- Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites: Near downtown and Garden of the Gods with solid reviews, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
FAQ: Best Places to Visit in December in the U.S.A on a Budget
What are the warmest cheap places to visit in December in the U.S.A.?
If you’re craving sunshine, stick to the South. The Gulf Coast has mild beach weather, especially in Texas, Alabama, and Florida.
Arizona is warm enough for desert hikes, and New Orleans stays comfortable for walking, eating, and exploring.
Where can I find winter charm without ski town prices?
Not every winter getaway needs a lift ticket. Hot Springs, Arkansas, has cozy bathhouses and scenic trails that stay open year-round.
St. Simons Island in Georgia is quiet and affordable, while Colorado Springs gives you mountain views without the luxury resort $$$.
Are beaches still worth visiting in December?
Absolutely!
The Gulf of Mexico and southern Atlantic beaches stay mild even in winter. Pensacola and Galveston offer soft sand and plenty of sunshine, and you’ll often have stretches of beach almost to yourself.
Even better, hotel rates are low and crowds are minimal, so you can actually relax without breaking your budget.
What’s the best way to save money on December travel?
Plan early, travel midweek, and look for smaller cities near major airports. Staying slightly outside tourist zones can save big.
Think Baton Rouge instead of New Orleans, or Fort Collins instead of Denver. Pack snacks, skip car rentals when public transit is available, and search for free local events.
These small changes make a big difference when you’re chasing the best places to visit in December in the U.S.A. on a budget.
Check in
Which of these places are on your travel bucket list for December? Comment below and give me all the details!
More Budget Tips:
28 Tips on Packing for a Budget Flight
15 Cheapest Places to Travel in the U.S.A
