December, with its festive cheer, doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Dreaming of a getaway but worried about costs? You’re in luck! This guide unveils fantastic, budget-friendly destinations perfect for December travel. Whether you’re seeking snowy landscapes, sunny beaches, or vibrant cityscapes, we’ve curated a list of Cheap Travel Destinations In December that promise memorable experiences without breaking the bank.
Denver, Colorado: Brews and Mountain Views on a Budget
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Downtown Denver skyline in winter, showcasing affordable travel options in December.
Average Cost: $582 (flight + hotel)
Denver, the Colorado capital, offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. While December temperatures might dip (averaging between 19 and 49°F), it’s the perfect time to explore Denver’s thriving brewery scene. Warm up at local favorites like Great Divide Brewing Co. or Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery. Indoors, the city beckons with attractions like the Downtown Aquarium, Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
For outdoor enthusiasts, world-class ski resorts are within a 90-minute drive, including Echo Mountain and Winter Park. Back in the city, experience the festive Cherry Creek Holiday Market for unique souvenirs and holiday cheer, part of the larger Cherry Creek North Winter Wonderland event.
Where to Stay: Cherry Creek provides a convenient base with numerous shops and restaurants. The Moxy Denver Cherry Creek offers stylish rooms and an on-site bar at affordable rates, often under $200 per night.
Tampa, Florida: Sunshine and Savings in the Sunshine State
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Hyde Park in Tampa, Florida, a budget-friendly destination for December.
Average Cost: $618 (flight + hotel)
Seeking a warm and cheap winter vacation? Tampa, Florida, “the Sunshine City,” is your answer. Boasting over 245 sunny days annually, Tampa’s trendy Water Street Tampa and the vibrant Riverwalk offer endless attractions. Explore museums, parks, and restaurants along the Riverwalk, and indulge in Tampa’s surprisingly affordable Michelin-ranked dining scene. SuperNatural Food & Wine, Psomi, and Streetlight Taco offer delicious eats without the hefty price tag.
Just a short drive from downtown, Ben T Davis Beach and East Tampa Beach offer sun-soaked relaxation.
Where to Stay: Hotel Haya in Ybor City provides budget-friendly accommodation near downtown Tampa, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions.
Seattle, Washington: Emerald City Exploration on a Budget
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Downtown Seattle on a foggy day, an affordable December travel destination.
Average Cost: $621 (flight + hotel)
Seattle, the gem of the Pacific Northwest, offers a wealth of experiences for a cheap December getaway. Iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass are must-sees. Pop culture enthusiasts will love the Museum of Pop Culture, while foodies can explore Pike Place Market and the original Starbucks. Seattle’s urban wineries, such as Eight Bells Winery and Spruce Hill Winery, offer unique tasting experiences.
Capture Instagram-worthy moments at the Gum Wall and enjoy winter events like WildLanterns at Woodland Park Zoo. Maximize savings with a Seattle CityPASS for discounts on top attractions.
Where to Stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle, located downtown, offers value-added amenities like free bike rentals and a complimentary evening social hour with local wines, making it a budget-conscious yet stylish choice.
Orlando, Florida: Theme Parks and Free Fun on a Dime
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Grand Floridian exterior in Orlando, Florida, suggesting budget-friendly theme park vacations.
Average Cost: $641 (flight + hotel)
Orlando, home to world-famous theme parks, can surprisingly be an affordable December destination. Beyond Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, discover Orlando’s free attractions, from the UCF Arboretum to movie nights at Lake Eola Park. Explore street art in the Milk District or savor the city’s Michelin-recommended yet affordable food scene. Se7enBites and Pizza Bruno offer delicious meals without breaking the bank.
December visitors can enjoy festive events like EPCOT® International Festival of the Holidays and Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort.
Where to Stay: Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites provides budget accommodations with vacation packages, deals, and early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™.
Fort Myers, Florida: Beaches and Nature at Bargain Prices
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Aerial view of Fort Myers, Florida, highlighting budget-friendly beach vacations in December.
Average Cost: $656 (flight + hotel)
Fort Myers, recently named the fastest-growing city in the U.S., is a fantastic and cheap December travel destination. Famous for pristine beaches and excellent fishing, relax at beaches like Bowditch Point Park and Bunche Beach Preserve. Adventure seekers can kayak the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail or explore hiking and biking trails.
Discover the historic Fort Myers River District with its galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Where to Stay: The Banyan Hotel Fort Myers, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located in the River District, offers a rooftop bar and pool, providing stylish and affordable lodging.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Sin City on a Shoestring
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The Las Vegas sign under a bright sun, symbolizing budget-friendly Las Vegas trips in December.
Average Cost: $671 (flight + hotel)
Las Vegas isn’t just for high rollers; it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. Enjoy free attractions like the Bellagio fountains and Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, and the Fremont Street Experience. Animal lovers can visit the Flamingo wildlife habitat and the Silverton Casino aquarium. Circus Circus offers free circus acts, and art enthusiasts can explore The Arts Factory and the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art.
Take advantage of affordable buffets or happy hour deals at spots like Brera Osteria and Honey Salt.
Where to Stay: Marriott’s Grand Chateau, off the Strip, offers upscale accommodations without resort fees, complete with a pool and bars, providing excellent value.
Phoenix, Arizona: Desert Sun and Deals in December
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Encanto Park in Phoenix, Arizona, a cheap destination for December with outdoor activities.
Average Cost: $687 (flight + hotel)
Phoenix, Arizona, offers majestic red rocks, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences at affordable prices in December. With average temperatures between 44 and 68°F, hike Papago Park or Camelback Mountain, and explore the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo. Downtown Phoenix boasts colorful street art and renowned pizzerias like Pizzeria Bianco.
December brings holiday events like ZooLights and Sea of Lights. Nearby Scottsdale, with its Old Town and Taliesin West, is also worth exploring.
Where to Stay: Rise Uptown Hotel, a chic downtown boutique hotel, offers rooftop bar, stylish rooms, and affordable rates under $200 per night in December.
Los Angeles, California: Hollywood Glamour Without the High Price Tag
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Sawtelle Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, representing budget-friendly travel in December.
Average Cost: $706 (flight + hotel)
Escape to sunny Los Angeles this December without breaking the bank. While known for glitz and glamour, LA offers affordable experiences. Hike to the Hollywood Sign or visit Griffith Observatory for stunning city views. Explore diverse neighborhoods like Venice and Santa Monica, and enjoy festive holiday events such as the Hollywood Christmas Parade and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Where to Stay: The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood, near Sunset Boulevard, offers a central location, rooftop, bars, and art collection, providing a stylish and reasonably priced base for exploring LA.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Beaches and Bargains Beyond Spring Break
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Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, showcasing budget-friendly December beach vacations.
Average Cost: $706 (flight + hotel)
Fort Lauderdale, beyond its spring break reputation, is an affordable year-round destination. Enjoy nearly 25 miles of beaches and a lively nightlife. Las Olas Boulevard is filled with shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Explore the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk and parks, and discover culture at the Museum of Discovery and Science and the Bonnet House.
Where to Stay: The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers a prime oceanfront location. Enjoy dining at Lona Cocina & Tequileria for a delicious meal.
Miami, Florida: Magic City on a Modest Budget
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South Beach, Miami, Florida, a vibrant and affordable destination for December travel.
Average Cost: $774 (flight + hotel)
Miami, the Magic City, offers a dreamy oceanfront escape in December without extravagant costs. Famous for nightlife and Art Deco architecture, Miami boasts free beaches like South Beach and Lummus Park. Explore the Art Deco Historic District and the Wynwood art scene. Discover Little Havana and lush Coconut Grove, home to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.
Where to Stay: The Gabriel Miami South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, in an Art Deco building, offers a central South Beach location and amenities like bike rentals and beach service, providing value and style.
Mexico City, Mexico: Culture and Cuisine South of the Border for Less
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Restaurant patios in Mexico City, Mexico, a budget-friendly international destination for December.
Average Cost: $846 (flight + hotel)
Mexico City, a vibrant capital, is always a great and affordable travel option. Explore neighborhoods like Polanco and Roma, and immerse yourself in the food scene, including Contramar and the affordable Panadería Rosetta. Enjoy free attractions like Bosque de Chapultepec and Museo Soumaya. Visit Palacio de Bellas Artes on Sundays for free admission.
Where to Stay: Downtown Mexico Hotel, in a 17th-century colonial mansion and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique and affordable stay in the heart of the city.
Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic: History and Culture in the Caribbean on a Budget
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A white building in Santiago de Los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, a budget-friendly Caribbean escape for December.
Average Cost: $861 (flight + hotel)
Santiago de los Caballeros, the Dominican Republic’s second-largest city, offers a less touristy and more affordable Caribbean experience compared to Punta Cana. Ideal for history and culture lovers, visit the Monumento de Santiago, Centro León cultural center, and Fortaleza San Luis museum. Relax in Parque Duarte and savor local cuisine at Puerta del Sol and Doña Pula at reasonable prices.
Where to Stay: Residence Inn Santiago de los Caballeros offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and a rooftop terrace, providing comfortable and affordable accommodations.
New York City, New York: Big Apple Magic Without the Big Bucks
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Bryant Park Christmas Market in New York City, a surprisingly affordable destination in December.
Average Cost: $896 (flight + hotel)
New York City in December is magical and surprisingly doable on a budget. Enjoy free or low-cost attractions like Bryant Park’s Winter Village, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating in Central Park, the Holiday Train Show, and Dyker Heights Christmas lights. Explore museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum, and find affordable Broadway tickets through TKTS or Broadway Roulette.
Where to Stay: Hotel Mulberry is among the affordable hotel options in New York City, offering a budget-friendly base for your Big Apple adventure.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: Caribbean History and Affordability Combined
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Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, a budget-friendly historical destination in December.
Average Cost: $976 (flight + hotel)
Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic’s capital and one of the Caribbean’s oldest cities, is perfect for history enthusiasts seeking affordable December travel. Explore the Zona Colonial UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to Alcázar de Colón museum and Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor. Visit Plaza de España, Dr. Rafael María Moscoso Botanic Garden, and Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos.
Where to Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Santo Domingo offers all-suite accommodations with an infinity pool and complimentary breakfast, providing great value.
Dublin, Ireland: Irish Charm and Low Costs in December
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Dublin Castle in Dublin, Ireland, an affordable European destination in December.
Average Cost: $983 (flight + hotel)
Dublin, Ireland, is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, offering endless activities. Despite chilly December weather, enjoy parks like St Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park. Explore historic sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Visit the Guinness Storehouse and take advantage of free walking tours and museums like the National Museum of Ireland.
Where to Stay: The Grafton Hotel, off Grafton Street, offers stylish rooms and a central location near pubs and attractions, making it a convenient and affordable choice.
December travel doesn’t have to be expensive. These destinations prove that you can enjoy incredible getaways without overspending. Start planning your cheap December escape today!
