United States, North America
Los Angeles in December
Holiday season at Disneyland and Universal. The week between Christmas and New Year's is packed.
The straight answer
December is a good month to visit Los Angeles. Holiday season at Disneyland and Universal. The week between Christmas and New Year's is packed.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 68F (20C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What December is like in Los Angeles
December is mild, with highs near 68F (20C), cool nights, and a chance of rain. The city dresses up for the holidays, and Disneyland and Universal are at their most festive. Early December is fairly calm, but the week between Christmas and New Year's is one of the busiest of the year, and prices climb with it.
This month suits families who want holiday cheer without snow, and travelers who come early in the month. Avoid the last week if you dislike crowds. If quiet parks matter more than decorations, late January is the better choice.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Los Angeles this month.
Holiday theme parks
Disneyland and Universal run their holiday seasons with lights, parades, and seasonal treats that kids love.
Early-month calm
The first two weeks of December have holiday decorations and shorter lines before school breaks begin.
Rose Parade prep
Late in the month, Pasadena gears up for the New Year's Day Rose Parade, and grandstand seats are sold ahead.
What to pack for December
- A warm layer for evenings in the 40s F (about 7C)
- A light rain jacket
- Comfortable shoes for long park days
- Sunglasses for bright winter days
Our timing tip
Do your theme park days before mid-December, and if you are staying for New Year's, book Rose Parade seats and hotels well ahead.
Book Los Angeles for December.
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- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Los AngelesOpens a hotel search for Los Angeles in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Los AngelesWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Los AngelesTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Los Angeles for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Los Angeles
Griffith Observatory
Free, with the best view of the Hollywood sign and the city lights. Closed Mondays; weekday evenings are calmest.
The Getty Center
Free admission (paid parking) with art, gardens, and city views. Closed Mondays.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Go midweek outside summer and holidays. Early entry helps.
Disneyland Resort
In Anaheim, about an hour from downtown without traffic. Weekdays in fall and late winter have the lowest crowds.
LACMA
The largest art museum in the western US. Urban Light is best at dusk.
Santa Monica Pier and the beach
Go early in the morning or at sunset. Bike the beach path to Venice.
Beat the crowds
- Plan days by neighborhood. LA traffic makes crossing town twice in one day a mistake.
- Hit the theme parks midweek in September, late January, or early February for the shortest lines.
- Do Griffith Observatory and the beach early; parking fills by late morning on weekends.
- Stay near where you will spend most of your time: Santa Monica for beaches, Hollywood for the observatory and Universal, Anaheim for Disneyland.
Know before you go
- Several major museums, including the Getty Center and Griffith Observatory, close on Mondays.
- Wildfire danger peaks with Santa Ana winds from fall into winter. Parks and trails in the Santa Monica Mountains can close during red flag warnings.
- Big storms in winter can close canyon roads and some trails for a few days.
Los Angeles in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Los Angeles?
December is a good month to visit Los Angeles. Holiday season at Disneyland and Universal. The week between Christmas and New Year's is packed.
What is the weather like in Los Angeles in December?
Mild, highs near 68F (20C).
Is Los Angeles crowded in December?
Crowds in Los Angeles are moderate in December; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Los Angeles.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
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Sort these two things first.
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