Buzz
As the holiday season approaches, many people are eager to reconnect with loved ones. Amidst the festive gatherings and family meals, consider adding an exciting winter getaway to your plans.
This is particularly relevant for residents of colder states such as Ohio, Indiana, North Dakota, or Michigan. WalletHub highlights that the top holiday spots are often budget-friendly, accessible via nearby airports, and packed with family-friendly attractions.
These destinations aren’t limited to snowy regions; many travelers are drawn to warmer climates and coastal scenery during the holiday season. Here are some of the most sought-after winter vacation spots.
Top Warm-Weather Getaways for the Holiday Season
Choosing a holiday destination with pleasant weather is often a priority, especially if you’re escaping freezing temperatures and snow.
According to WalletHub, Las Vegas, Nevada, is the most popular warm-weather destination in December. Its abundance of hotels, shopping centers, resorts, and casinos, often available at budget-friendly rates during winter, makes it a top choice.
San Diego, California, comes in second, thanks to affordable flights to San Diego International Airport. The city also offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including amusement parks, bike rentals, and museums.
Below are the top 10 warm-weather holiday spots:
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- San Diego, California
- Dallas, Texas
- Austin, Texas
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Houston, Texas
- San Francisco, California
- Tampa, Florida
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Miami, Florida
Top Cold-Weather Escapes for Holiday Enthusiasts
For those who love chilly destinations, Atlanta, Georgia, ranks highest, according to WalletHub’s analysis of flight prices from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and local attractions. The city’s historical significance and landmarks like the World of Coca-Cola museum make it a standout choice.
New York City secures the second spot, offering iconic attractions across its five boroughs, including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge. The city’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square is a major highlight during the holiday season.
Here are the top 10 cold-weather holiday destinations:
- Atlanta, Georgia
- New York City, New York
- Washington, D.C.
- Chicago, Illinois
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Denver, Colorado
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Kansas City, Missouri
Optimal Travel Dates for the Holiday Season
The holiday season is all about family, even if it means traveling far to reunite. Experts suggest that the ideal travel dates are on the actual holidays themselves, such as Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, when airports are less crowded compared to the days prior, as noted by NerdWallet.
If traveling on Christmas isn’t an option, consider December 18 or 19, when most people are still at work and kids are in school before winter break. Post-Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are also excellent times to travel.
