Christmas in Arizona feels different in the best possible way. You get sunshine-filled days, cool winter evenings, and festive streets glowing with holiday lights, all without the heavy winter crowds found in colder states. From decorated desert cities to snow-covered mountain towns, Arizona offers a mix of warmth and winter charm that makes December travel feel both relaxing and exciting.
Choosing the right place to stay turns a good holiday into a great one. Vacation rentals give you more space, privacy, and comfort than traditional hotels, especially during Christmas. Think full kitchens for holiday meals, cozy living rooms for gift opening, fireplaces for chilly nights, and outdoor spaces for sunset views. In this guide, you will discover the best vacation rentals in Arizona for Christmas and find the perfect home base for your festive getaway.
Arizona brings together sunshine, scenery, and seasonal cheer in a way few states can match. You can wake up to palm trees and holiday lights in the same neighborhood, then drive a few hours to find snow-covered forests and cozy mountain cabins. That variety makes Arizona a favorite for families, couples, and groups looking for a Christmas experience that feels festive without feeling crowded or stressful. Travelers also love the long list of things to do in December in Arizona, from light displays to outdoor adventures, all packed into one easy-to-explore state.
Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale feel bright and comfortable in December. Days are mild, perfect for patio brunches, desert walks, and outdoor shopping. Holiday light displays, seasonal markets, and decorated resorts fill the evenings with color and music. You can enjoy Christmas dinners outdoors, stroll through twinkling neighborhoods, and relax by a heated pool during the day.
Northern Arizona delivers the classic white Christmas feeling. Towns like Flagstaff and the White Mountains see snowfall in December, creating postcard-ready winter scenes. Cabins glow with string lights, fireplaces stay lit, and the smell of pine fills the air. Snow play, sledding hills, and scenic forest drives turn simple moments into holiday memories you will not forget.
Arizona cities and towns go all out for the season. Local parades, tree lighting ceremonies, live Christmas music, and winter festivals bring communities together. You can visit illuminated gardens, drive through sparkling light tunnels, and attend family-friendly holiday shows. No matter where you stay, the holiday spirit feels close, welcoming, and easy to enjoy.
Finding the right vacation rental can shape your entire holiday experience. Arizona offers a wide range of stays that match different travel styles, from cozy cabins in snowy towns to modern homes in the sunny desert. Each rental type brings its own charm, giving you space to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the season in comfort.
Cabins are perfect for travelers who want a warm and peaceful winter setting. These rentals often come with fireplaces, wood interiors, and forest views. They create a classic holiday atmosphere and work well for couples or families who want quiet time together in the mountains.
Luxury homes in places like Scottsdale offer heated pools, hot tubs, spacious patios, and high-end interiors. These properties fit travelers who enjoy stylish spaces, resort-like amenities, and plenty of room for holiday entertaining.
Arizona has many rentals built with families in mind. These homes usually feature large kitchens, game rooms, bunk beds, and outdoor spaces for play. They make it easy to cook holiday meals, gather in one place, and keep kids entertained during the trip.
For guests traveling with pets, pet-friendly homes provide fenced yards, easy access to walking trails, and comfortable indoor layouts. These rentals help families include their pets in the holiday fun without extra worry or restrictions.
The right vacation rental can make your holiday trip smoother, more comfortable, and more memorable. A little planning helps you find a place that fits your group size, preferred setting, and the type of Christmas experience you want. Here are a few key factors to consider before booking.
Location shapes how easily you can enjoy the season. If you plan to explore holiday markets, light displays, and downtown Christmas events, look for rentals close to city centers in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Sedona. Travelers seeking snow should focus on Flagstaff or the White Mountains to stay near sledding hills and winter trails. A well-placed rental saves time on the road and gives you more room to enjoy festive moments, local dining, and evening activities.
Comfort matters during the holidays, especially in December. Look for rentals that offer reliable heating, fireplaces for cozy evenings, and hot tubs for cool nights. Private parking, good insulation, and outdoor seating areas also make a difference. These features help you enjoy the season at a relaxed pace and create the kind of holiday atmosphere that feels warm and inviting.
Christmas is one of the most popular times to visit Arizona, so early planning goes a long way. Booking a few months in advance gives you more options and better prices. Travelers with flexible dates often find lower rates on midweek stays. Longer stays can unlock additional savings as many hosts offer weekly or extended-stay discounts. A little flexibility and early booking can help you secure the home that fits your holiday plans perfectly.
Arizona is full of festive experiences that make the holiday season extra special. Staying in a vacation rental allows you to explore nearby attractions at your own pace, from sparkling light displays to snowy adventures and family-friendly events.
Arizona towns and cities come alive with holiday lights in December. Botanical gardens, parks, and downtown areas host stunning displays that range from walkable light paths to drive-through experiences. Many cities also feature tree lighting ceremonies and community festivals with live music and local vendors. These events are perfect for capturing the holiday spirit and creating lasting memories close to your rental.
For those who enjoy being active, Arizona offers unique winter outdoor activities. Northern areas like Flagstaff and the White Mountains provide opportunities for snow play, sledding, and forest hikes. Scenic drives through red rock canyons or desert landscapes reveal dramatic sunsets, while the clear desert skies make stargazing a magical experience. These adventures combine holiday fun with the state’s natural beauty.
Families visiting Arizona in December can enjoy a variety of festive activities. Santa meet-and-greets, holiday-themed workshops, and train rides are popular options for children. Seasonal craft fairs, cookie decorating events, and local theater performances also offer engaging ways to celebrate together. Staying near these activities ensures easy access and more time to enjoy the holiday magic without rushing.
GLV offers a wide range of vacation rentals in Arizona that cater to every type of holiday traveler. Cozy mountain cabins with roaring fireplaces and luxury desert villas with private pools provide options for all preferences and group sizes. Family-friendly homes feature spacious kitchens and game rooms, while pet-friendly rentals allow every member of the family to join the celebration. From romantic getaways to fun-filled family holidays or large group gatherings, these carefully selected rentals place you close to the best Christmas attractions and activities in Arizona, making your festive stay comfortable, convenient, and truly memorable.
*Prices shown may not be accurate. Please search with dates to view accurate nightly prices