December on a Budget: 10 Cheapest U.S. Places to Visit

Thinking about a December trip but worried about the cost? It’s a popular time to travel, which can make things expensive. But you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have an amazing holiday getaway. We’ve found some spots across the U.

S. where you can have a great time without emptying your wallet. You can find awesome deals on flights and places to stay, with some packages costing less than you might think.

Whether you want to build a snowman or chill on a beach, there’s a perfect, low-cost destination waiting for you. These places offer all the fun and festive vibes of December without the high price. You can enjoy a memorable trip for less than $500 in many of these locations.

Get ready to explore some of the cheapest and coolest places to visit this winter.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great choice if you want a festive vibe without the freezing weather. December days are usually mild, perfect for a walk on the famous boardwalk, which lights up at night for a cool winter show.

You can check out the huge Broadway at the Beach complex for shopping and fun. Don’t miss the aquarium’s tree festival, with more than 50 decorated trees.

When the sun goes down, Brookgreen Gardens gets covered in sparkling holiday lights. For food, you can try some classic Southern dishes. Warm up with some shrimp and grits or she-crab soup at well-known local eateries. It’s a fun way to experience the local flavor after a day of exploring.

Denver, Colorado

If you want a winter trip filled with holiday spirit, Denver, Colorado, is the place to be. The city goes big for December with huge light displays you have to see to believe. Check out the Zoo Lights or the glowing Blossoms of Light at the Botanic Gardens.

You can also grab some skates and hit the ice at Skyline Park or take a selfie in front of the massive Mile High Tree, which is seriously tall and bright.

Even though it gets chilly, there are plenty of ways to stay warm and have fun. Catch a classic show like “The Nutcracker” or “A Christmas Carol” to get in the holiday mood. If you need a break from the cold air, head inside to the Denver Art Museum or the Museum of Nature and Science.

It’s a mix of outdoor excitement and indoor cool that won’t cost a fortune.

Atlanta, Georgia

In December, Atlanta, Georgia, is packed with so much holiday fun it’s hard to feel bored. The city gets decked out with bright lights and fun things to do. You can go ice skating at Atlantic Station or walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which has an amazing light show at night.

There’s also a cool German-style Christmas market where you can check out local crafts and grab a warm drink.

For even more holiday excitement, take a short trip to Stone Mountain Park just outside the city. It’s decorated with over two million lights and has a parade every night.

With so many attractions and festive events, Atlanta gives you a great mix of city fun and holiday cheer without costing a lot of money.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

For a winter trip that is almost guaranteed to have snow, grab your warmest coat and check out Minneapolis, Minnesota. The city makes the cold weather fun, with cool things to do inside and out. You can get all your holiday shopping done at the Mall of America, the biggest mall in the country.

For a quieter moment, visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art to see amazing artwork away from the cold.

You can experience a cozy vibe at the Four Seasons Minneapolis’ Nordic Village, where you can eat in a private cabin or enjoy warm drinks.

When you’re ready to face the cold again, bundle up for a walk by the Mississippi River or through one of the city’s parks, which will likely be covered in snow.