You may not be old enough to remember the days when planning an impromptu trip was not as easy as grabbing your nearest electronic device and using it to decide where to go. Not gonna lie, I’m glad those days are over. It’s so much easier now. For example, here I am thinking, “Hmmm, maybe we should go somewhere for Christmas?” Within minutes I was able to put together a list of some of the cheapest cities to travel to this Christmas.
More from MamásLatinas: 20 Tips to keep the whole family happy during holiday road trips
Then I checked out what the temperatures will be like at the destinations that appeal to me and what there is to do over the holiday season. Well, it seems like a waste to keep all that information to myself, which is why I am sharing my armchair travel findings with you. Here are some of the most affordable US cities to visit this Christmas just in case you’re coming down with a case of holiday wanderlust.
Note on methodology: Oh, and if you’re wondering how I know they are the cheapest cities to visit, I literally asked Google “What are the cheapest cities in the US to travel to during Christmas 2024?”
Solvang, California, is known as the ‘Danish Capital of America.’
I have been to this city a few times, but never during Christmas. Located on the central coast of California, it is the self-declared “Danish Capital of America.” The word that always comes to mind when I think of Solvang is “quaint.” Make sure to try the Æbleskiver, a classic fluffy dough Danish pastry.
According to the city’s website, “Solvang is a sun-soaked slice of Danish culture in the Santa Ynez Valley, where California wine cellars mix with European bakeries and shops.” Temperatures in December range from highs around 61 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 47 degrees. For more information visit the Solvang website.
Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its charm.
Charleston is a great place to visit in December as they go all out with holiday markets, light displays, candlelight tours, and even have carriage rides you can take through the historical downtown.
According to the city’s website, “it’s one of the most popular vacation destinations along the East Coast.” I had no idea it was so popular, but given how beautiful it is and how much there is to do, I can understand why. Temperatures in December range from highs around 63 degrees Fahrenheit to lows in the 40s. For more information visit the Charleston website.
Branson, Missouri, is known for its live entertainment.
Taylor Swift fans might want to know that Branson, Missouri, is the official vacation destination of the Kansas City Chiefs. Aside from keeping an eye out for Taylor’s BF Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce, there is plenty to do in the area.
“Experience world-famous live music shows, thrilling attractions, outdoor beauty, delicious food, and genuine Ozarks hospitality that will make you feel right at home,” the visitors bureau declares. Temperatures in December range from highs around 48 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 28 degrees. For more information visit the Explore Branson website.
Las Vegas, Nevada, is known for all kinds of entertainment.
December is a great time to visit Las Vegas as the weather lends itself well to outdoor activities much more than during the summer. If you think Las Vegas is really just for adults, then you are mistaken. There are many family-friendly activities to enjoy including the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, the Fun Dungeon at the Excalibur Hotel, and Hershey’s Chocolate World at the New York-New York Hotel.
As for Christmas activities, there are plenty of those to enjoy. There are Glittering Light at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the Christmas display at the Bellagio & Botanical Gardens, and the world’s largest Christmas lights maze at the Las Vegas Ballpark, to name a few. Temperatures in December range from highs around 60 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 35 degrees. For more information visit the Visit Las Vegas website.
Kansas City, Missouri, is known as the City of Fountains.
It is also the home of the Hallmark Christmas Experience, “a free, open-to-the-public, immersive experience with all the charm of a Hallmark movie town square.” If you’re a fan of Hallmark movies, it’s your chance to star in your own real-life version.
“Here in the Heart of America, holiday magic is waiting for you. Lights glow. Trees sparkle. And KC-made goods promise something perfect for everyone on your list,” the city’s website pledges. Temperatures in December range from highs around 45 degrees Fahrenheit and lows around 25 degrees. For more information visit the Visit KC website.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is known for its architecture.
It may be small, but it has the vibe of a city because of all the opportunities to partake in dining, shopping, and visits to historical landmarks. For the holidays, Lancaster is ready to shine.
“Enjoy fun activities for the whole family, fantastic holiday shopping, and traditions both new and old,” invites the city’s website. Temperatures in December range from highs around 41 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 25 degrees. For more information visit the Visit Lancaster City website.
Leavenworth, Washington, is known for its Bavarian charm.
If you are already in the US, no passport is needed to visit this delightful Bavarian village in the mountains. The town is charming year-round, but it’s even more special during the holidays.
According to its website, this town “will leave you saying, Holy Schnitzel!” Temperatures in December range from highs around 34 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 23 degrees. For more information visit the Leavenworth website.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is historical.
Santa Fe has a rich history and holds the distinction of being the oldest capital city in the United States. It was founded in 1607, which predates the founding of Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620.
Over 400 years, Santa Fe has been a hub for “artists, chefs, wellness experts, and other creative dreamers” who have contributed to the city’s rich multicultural history. Early Native Americans called it “Dancing Ground of the Sun” for good reason. Temperatures in December range from highs around 41 degrees Fahrenheit and lows around 19 degrees. For more information visit the Santa Fe website.
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is known for its diversity.
Albuquerque is in the center of New Mexico. It is a vibrant city shaped by centuries of diverse cultures. The cuisine is renowned, the museums are world-class, and the rich history will leave you inspired.
Over the holidays, “crimson chile ristras, brilliantly illuminated storefronts and walkways, and unique events spreading cheer and holiday magic are just a few highlights.” Temperatures in December range from highs around 50 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 30 degrees. For more information visit the Visit Albuquerque website.
Denver, Colorado, is known as the ‘Mile High City.’
Denver is 5,280 feet or exactly one mile above sea level, which is why it’s called the “Mile High City.” Being that high up means that Denver is closer to God. I’m kidding! You are, however, closer to the sun, so wear sun block.
During the winter holidays, Denver sparkles with “millions of lights all across the city.” The temperatures in December range from highs around 45 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 19 degrees. For more information visit the Denver website.
