places to visit christmas 2022

23 Amazing Places To Visit In USA For Christmas (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

December is a magical time of year in many places in the United States. Christmas festivities are in full swing and you can feel the joy and excitement that this brings. There are beautiful Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, decorated Christmas trees, and of course, decadent Xmas treats tempting you almost everywhere you go. Some of us live in hot sunny climates and daydream about snowy winter wonderlands filled with sleigh rides, visits to Santa workshops and hot chocolate. While others live in these winter wonderlands and can’t wait to discover Christmas delights on beaches, by hotel pools, and while walking in t-shirts and shorts along city streets or country paths. If you are not sure what you want, you have come to the right place. Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

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Other Options For Christmas Holidays

Many places in America start preparing for the Christmas holidays with Christmas lights, setting up Xmas trees, and opening Christmas markets in mid to late November. This is an ideal time to travel to enjoy these events without crowds and to take advantage of lower costs from travelling in low season. If you are interested, please take a look at my article 20 Best Places To Visit In USA In November.

For those of you who are looking for a little more adventure with more cost savings, consider visiting Europe. Here are 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Christmas .

If you are looking for warm winter getaway s in or near the United States, you have a lot to choose from! Here are:

• 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway ;
• 20 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations In USA ; and
• 21 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations Near USA .

Alternatively, if all you dream about is spending your Christmas holidays under blankets of snow in a charming small town or exploring the best snowy winter activities that ski resorts or other destinations have to offer, then take a look at 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA .

If you are simply looking for the best Christmas parades in the United States, then check out 15 Best Places To Watch Christmas Parades In USA .

Christmas Gifts

For those of you looking for fun, affordable and thoughtful stocking stuffers or gifts, check out 38 Best Christmas Stocking Stuffers For Adventure Seekers And Travelers and 60 Best Christmas Gifts For Men.

23 Best Places To Visit In USA For Christmas

In this article, I have asked 23 travel bloggers where they have found the best Christmas events in the United States. Unsurprising, they are located in all four corners of the continental USA, as well as Hawaii.

As you expect, most big cities offer over the top extravaganzas and special events. However, many small cities and towns will blow your socks away with their beauty and Christmas spirit.

In addition, when not gazing at gingerbread houses, going on sleigh rides, or watching Xmas parades, all of these places offer amazing every day attractions and experiences. As you will see, I haven’t made it easy for you to choose where to go.

New York City, New York

By James of Travel Collecting

Christmas in New York City  is a magical experience. There are so many amazing things to see and do making New York City one of the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas.  

All of the department stores decorate for the holidays. You and your whole family can do an easy walking tour around Midtown Manhattan taking in all of the holiday windows. Along the way, visit Santaland at Macy’s and stop at Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center and go ice skating surrounded by the iconic New York skyscrapers! 

There are also decorated Christmas trees throughout the city. The largest and most famous is the real tree in Rockefeller Center that is topped with an enormous Swarovski crystal star. Other interesting trees are the one at the Met, which is surrounded by an antique Italian creche; the animal origami-covered tree at the American Museum of Natural History; and the bright blue tree at Bryant Park. Stop at the Bryant Park Holiday Village for a hot chocolate or hot toddy while you’re there. 

Of course, if you simply want to walk amongst hundreds of trees lightly dusted with snow, head to Central Park.

NYC is a great place to stock up on gifts. There are outdoor holiday markets at Union Square, Bryant Park and inside Grand Central Terminal that sell hand-crafted gifts.   

Finally, there are a couple of classic shows to enjoy. Kids and kids-at-heart will love the iconic Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It has real-life camels, the high-kicking Rockettes and, of course, Santa. Another show not to miss is the annual season of The Nutcracker by the New City Ballet at Lincoln Center. 

For amazing tips to make your trip to New York City safe and cost effective, please see 50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are curious about how to save money in New York City, where you should stay, how to be safe and get around, and so much more, please see  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those traveling with kids and teenagers, here are two helpful articles about what you should do when you are not busy with Christmas activities: An Action Packed New York City Weekend With Teens and 10 Ultimate New York City Attractions With Teens .

Best Way To Reach Destination

There are three international airports that serve New York City. JFK is a 35-minute drive from Midtown Manhattan if there is no traffic (which there almost always is). The much smaller La Guardia is 25 minutes from Midtown with no traffic. The third airport, Newark, is actually in nearby New Jersey and is also about half an hour with good traffic from Midtown.  

It is best not to rent a car. Parking is very expensive in New York and there is excellent public transportation. Accordingly, pick up a taxi or Uber/Lyft from airport. You can also easily take the train from Newark Airport to Penn Station.

The average high temperature in New York City in December is 45°F.  You can expect around 3 inches of rain and 3 inches of snow in December.

Hotel Recommendation

There are so many hotels to choose from in New York City. Without question, choosing a hotel is one of the most overwhelming tasks when planning a trip there. I have stayed at several.

On my last trip, I stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Eventi which I loved. The hotel was luxurious but still reasonably priced and the location was fantastic for many amazing attractions . We were easy walking distance to the High Line and Macys, and easy subway rides to Times Square and Broadway Shows. Even better, everyday the hotel offered complimentary wine and cheese!

Savannah, Georgia

By Erin of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

Savannah is charming any time of year, but something about the Christmas season makes it feel extra magical. From the hundreds of twinkle lights draped across Broughton Street to the seasonal greenery in the squares to the carolers that stroll through the Historic District…Savannahians just know how to celebrate the season!  

A few of the most popular seasonal events include the Holiday Boat Parade, the Gingerbread Trail, and the Holiday Tour of Homes. Make sure to also visit the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. It is filled with red poinsettias and an elaborate nativity scene. 

The most festive areas of town during the holiday season include River Street, Broughton Street, and City Market. Don’t forget to stroll down Jones Street, which is considered one of the prettiest streets in America. Be sure to check out all the  beautiful Christmas decorations in Savannah’s Historic District . They are very classic in nature and look like something straight out of a Dickens novel. 

Two of the most popular dining spots for the holidays are The Olde Pink House and the 17hundred90 Inn & Restaurant. Since Savannah is one of the best Christmas vacation destinations in the United States, make sure that you make reservations at least a month in advance for The Olde Pink House! 

If you’re planning a visit, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest option. From there, it’s just a short 15-mile drive to the Historic District.

You won’t need to stuff your suitcase with heavy winter coats, since the average high temperature in December falls in the mid 60s. However, it does cool down at night to mid 40s with about 2.6 inches of rain in the month.

Erin says, “The Marshall House is a fantastic place to stay. The hotel is in a very convenient location on Broughton Street. I’s very easy to walk to restaurants, landmarks, and shops.”

Asheville, North Carolina

By Bret & Mary of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

With its incredible array of outdoor attractions , critically acclaimed restaurants, and thriving cultural scene, you could argue that Asheville is one of the best places to visit in the USA at any time of year. But the mountain scenery and art deco architecture are especially attractive when surrounded by the festive lights and decorations of the holiday season.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit in America around the holidays. In addition, there are plenty of things to do a Christmas getaway.

For starters, you’ll want to see Christmas at Biltmore Estate (the largest privately-owned home in the US), which starts with the raising of a 35-foot-tall tree in the Banquet Hall in early November. You can take daily tours of the lavish Estate all decked out in the festive colors of the season. Their nighttime candlelit tours make for an excellent date night. 

You’ll also love Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum. Thousands of shimmering Christmas lights make up shining displays along their wooded edge and gardens. Last year, there were several new nature-themed displays, including a giant daisy “garden,” winter wildlife and colorful butterfly displays, and an insect lantern exhibit. 

Of course, there are also lots of other Asheville attractions and activities that you can do all year round. This includes driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to visiting iconic landmarks like Mount Mitchell State Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But these unique Xmas events are what makes Asheville, North Carolina one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Despite its location in the mountains, the town offers surprisingly mild temperatures in December, with average highs of 50ºF and lows of around 31ºF. You can expect around 3.6 inches of rain and 1.9 inches of snow fall in December.

While a white Christmas in Asheville is not completely out of the question, it is certainly not guaranteed.

Although it’s one of the larger towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains (population approximately 92,000), Asheville does not have its own international airport.

You can fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which is located about 120 miles to the southeast. But several major airlinesoffer direct flights into Asheville Regional Airport from major US cities like Atlanta, Boston , Chicago, Denver, Houston, and NYC. 

Brett and Mary say, “If you love those competitive cooking shows, you won’t want to miss the 29th Annual National Gingerbread Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn (one of our favorite Asheville hotels). This is a 12-day Xmas event featuring some of the most elaborately decorated Gingerbread Houses you’ve ever seen.”

Naples, Florida

By Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide

If you’re dreaming of something other than a white Christmas this year, a tropical holiday can be just as magical, and a wonderful break from the freezing cold! Hop a flight to southwest Florida and head to the Paradise Coast of Naples where Christmas is every bit as festive as the north.

Holiday parades along the southern Gulf Coast are anything but typical. Santa usually arrives on a party boat decked out in holiday lights and rocking Christmas tunes. The annual Christmas boat parades herald the start of the holiday season, and there are several you can attend throughout December. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony also kicks off the holidays the first week of December. During a two-day celebration, there is a long table on 5th Avenue, a skating rink, and a stunning live Nativity scene. The magical scene reappears throughout Christmas week as well.

Throughout the holidays, shops in the downtown create unique displays and artificial snow machines add a bit of traditional Christmas. But the real reason that Naples is one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas is that all this holiday cheer can be enjoyed along with a trip to the amazing beaches for which the city is known. And while the water might be a bit chilly for locals, the mid-60s temps (F) will suit most visitors just fine!

Average high temperatures hover pleasantly in the mid-70’s (F), although they can be in the 80s or drop down to the 50s at night. You can expect very little rain.

Getting to Naples is easy. Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, then drive or Uber the 30 minutes to Naples.

Lori says, “The Inn On Fifth is in the center of downtown Naples and one of the best luxury stays in Naples. For the best value, we highly recommend Bellasera Resort.”

Branson, Missouri

By Elizabeth of the Fearless Foreignor

Branson, Missouri is one of the best destinations in the United States during the Christmas season. It has a lot of holiday special events, shows, and activities that don’t take place the rest of the year.

Branson is known for their high quality theater productions. During the holiday season almost all of the shows turn into a seasonal spectacular with Xmas songs, holiday story lines, and festive backdrops. 

The theme park, Silver Dollar City, should also be on your list of places to visit. The whole park is decked out in millions of lights. The Christmas in Midtown light spectacular is a highlight of the park, as well as the nightly holiday parade, Christmas sing along train, and Christmas shows. 

In December, the average high temperature is 48°F and average low temperature is 33°F. Branson has had as much as 8.4 inches of snow but, it rarely snows that much. Usually it is only an inch or two and melts quickly during the day.

Accordingly, don’t expect Branson to be a winter wonderland, but on the plus side, the temperatures won’t be so low that you can’t be outside enjoying all the holiday festivities! 

Many people who visit Branson drive. However, there are several small airports around Branson for those who prefer to fly.

The closest, just 20 minutes south of downtown Branson, is the Branson Airport (BKG). Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), both about 4 hours away, are the closest international airports. 

However you reach Branson, Branson at Christmas time is the perfect place to visit during the Christmas season!

Elizabeth says, “The Camden Hotel and Conference center is only minutes away from many of the shows and attractions in Branson. In addition to good prices and clean rooms, it offers delicious free desserts every night! 

Las Vegas, Nevada

By Roxanna of Gypsy With A Day Job

If you are looking for the best American Christmas vacations, Las Vegas is a perfect choice. The city has everything for a holiday break: warm activities, cold activities, shopping venues, bright decorations and cheerful events. Even if you are not a big Vegas fan, during the holidays it will warm your heart. If it is your first trip to Las Vegas, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Start your trip with a walk on the strip to get into the spirit. Every resort spruces up its already lavish decor with seasonal tributes. You’ll find trees of every size (including palm trees) with bulbs and baubles, and festive events at every turn. In particular, take a detour and explore the Wynn, Palazzo, Bellagio, and Aria resorts!  

Once you’re fully in the mood, finish your Xmas shopping. You are spoiled for choices. For high end, try The Shops at Crystals, The Forum Shops, or the Grand Canal Shops. For main-stream options try Fashion Show, and for bargains, Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is the best choice.

If shopping exhausts your cheer, the normal Las Vegas attractions are available, and outdoor adventures abound in the surrounding area. 

Consider getting back to nature and doing some hiking at the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, only 30-40 minutes drive away.

However, if what you really want is more extravagant Christmas events, drive the Las Vegas Motor Speedway light show, walk the Christmas cactus garden at Ethel M. Chocolate Factory, or ride the Holiday Express at Springs Resort. 

If searching for insider tips and tricks on where to stay, how to save money, and the best things to do, please check out  50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors .

For those looking for  21st birthday  inspiration, Las Vegas is also a fantastic destination to celebrate this milestone.

To get to Las Vegas, fly into the McCarran International Airport. The Vegas strip is only 20 minutes away by Uber or Lyft. Avoid taxis as they charge a premium for airport pick up.

In December, you will find the average high temperatures around 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a jacket though, as it cools to the low 40s at night. There will be very little rain and no snow.

Roxanna says, “We recommend staying at the Venetian, or sister resort, the Palazzo. The lavish opulence is appropriate for the city, as is the impeccable staff and luxe resort offerings. More importantly, every room is a comfortable suite with clear sitting, dining and sleeping areas.”

Leavenworth, Washington

By Karee of Our Woven Journey

Leavenworth, Washington is a small, Bavarian-themed city nestled just east of the Cascade Mountains in the United States. Its charm draws nearly one million visitors a year, with many of them coming to experience Christmas in the village.

Much of the ambiance is due to the half-million Christmas lights that decorate the city. Over 20,000 people come each weekend to see the lighting ceremonies that happen every Saturday and Sunday during the first three weekends of December.

Since Leavenworth is small, you’ll be able to walk to most of the shops and boutiques that line the streets. Be sure to start at the Nutcracker Museum and the Hat Shop as they are both very popular!

If there is snow on the ground when you visit, plan to take sleigh rides through the beautiful, evergreen forest. There are several places that offer rides and reservations are needed, so plan for this attraction.

Is feeding a real-life reindeer on your bucket list? You can make it happen at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm! You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time since this is also a very popular thing to do.

Leavenworth is worth visiting any time of year, but for those wanting to experience the magic of Christmas, Leavenworth is one of the best American small towns to visit for Xmas.

The average high temperature for December is 34°F.   The snow season starts in October and lasts through March, with December getting 17 inches of snow on average!!! You’ll want to be sure to dress properly for this winter wonderland! 

If you’re planning a  trip to Seattle , Leavenworth is a great day trip to add to your agenda. It’s only about a two-hour drive, although you could easily spend more than one day there.

Sea-Tac International is the main airport for those flying from out of state.

Karee recommends the Bavarian Lodge. Located across from the Village center, it offers luxurious accommodations with incredible views of the Village and surrounding mountains. It also includes complimentary full breakfast buffet, heated outdoor pool, and two hot tubs.

Baltimore, Maryland

By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Baltimore’s nickname is “Charm City” but during Christmas, it becomes “Jolly Charming City”. It is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the Christmas season.

Hampden is a tight-knit Baltimore neighborhood that is famous for its “Miracle on 34th Street!” Now in its 73rd year, this outdoor holiday exhibit causes traffic jams and happy smiles.

Parents dress their dogs as well as kids in reindeer antlers and Christmas sweaters. As cars crawl down 34th Street, passengers see traditional Baltimore rowhouses and porches transformed into twinkling holiday homes. More information on the 2021 Miracle on 34th Street program can be found at  Christmas Street.com .

Hampden has also hosted the Mayor’s Christmas Parade in the past. In some years, there have been 25,000 people along the 2.5 mile route. The performers included 160 marching units, bands, floats, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles, the Mummers of Philadelphia, Miss Yuletide and Miss Yuletide Jr. Santa Claus flew in for the festivities.

Don’t miss the Baltimore Parade of lighted Boats at historic Fells Point. Also, check out The Farmers Market which offers an array of wreaths and Christmas gifts.

If you can spare an extra day, take the MARC train to Washington DC’s Union Station and check out the Capitol Christmas tree . It is in walking distance!

Average high temperatures in Baltimore in December is 47 °F with 2.9 inches and 2.2 inches of snow.

Fly into Baltimore International Airport for a quick 12-mile drive to the neighborhood of Hampden.

Terri says, “If money is no object, book your stay at the Four Seasons waterfront luxury hotel.” Its location is amazing and offers beautiful rooms.

Oahu, Hawaii

By Noel Morata of This Hawaii Life

Christmas in Oahu is special and different on the island than the mainland. You get all the fun decorations, colorful displays, Christmas fairs and special events but with a more tropical vibe, colors and gusto. 

In December, you can experience:

• a fun Christmas parade;
• Xmas lights and decorations at all the major venues and shopping centers;
• a decorated night boat parade;
• Christmas fares and holiday markets;
• firework displays at the Hilton resort; and
• orgeous store decorations.

However, all of these Christmas attractions have Hawaiian and tropical flare to wow you. Hot tropical flowers, birds, palm trees, and local imagery are included in traditional Christmas themes and colors to create a unique look, making it one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Beyond the Christmas cheer, you can also enjoy some of the best things to do in Oahu no matter the time of year, such as hiking Diamond Head, visiting Pearl Harbor , and exploring downtown Honolulu.

The weather in Oahu is perfect and ranges from the mid 70s to mid 80s with low humidity, wonderful breezy weather and blue skies.

Visitors to the island fly into Honolulu International airport and most visitors stay around the tourist districts of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. It’s approximately 25 minutes by taxi or ride share.

Noel says, “There are many options to stay around Waikiki from boutique to luxury brands. However, the iconic place to have a real Oahu experience with beautiful decorations for the holidays would be to stay at The Royal Hawaiian fronting Waikiki Beach”

Washington, DC

By Maggie of Pink Caddy Travelogue

Christmas in Washington, DC  is unlike any other place in the US! The nation’s capital goes all out for the holiday season, and it celebrates in a way only DC can.

Like decking out the White House. Yes, THE White House. During Christmas time, visitors can tour the Presidential residence and see the annual White House gingerbread cake, the dozens of differently decorated Christmas trees, and an 18 th -century nativity scene. Regardless of your political affiliation, a tour of the White House at Christmas is an amazing experience.

However, make sure you book your tour reservations through your Congressman’s office 3 months in advance. It is very popular and will sell out.

Another can’t miss experience is seeing the National Christmas tree and its surrounding 56 mini trees (one for each state and territory). The annual lighting has been a DC Christmas tradition since 1923 when President Calvin Coolidge lit the first tree. The Capitol also has its own decorated tree located just below the east steps.

Other must-dos include attending a performance of Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral and visiting the special Christmas exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden (they recreate DC landmarks using just plants!)

If you’re traveling with kids , definitely check out “Enchant DC” (the world’s largest light maze, hosted at Nationals Park), and Zoolights at the Smithsonian Zoo.

The best airport is Ronald Regan National Airport (it is international, despite the name). It’s right across the river from downtown DC. The driving time is 15 minutes, or you can take the metro directly from the airport.

The temperature in December can vary greatly. It can be in the 20s or in the 70s, but the average is in the 40s-50s. You can expect around 2.8 inches of rain and 2.5 inches of snowfall in December.

Maggie says, “The Willard is one of the most historic hotels in DC and is right next to the White House. It’s luxury, but you’ll be able to say you spent the night in the same place as every important world leader and diplomat who visits DC.”

Vail, Colorado

By Daniela of Fox In The Forest

As one of the most  beautiful places in Colorado , Vail is one of the best places to visit in the USA for the Christmas season if you want a winter wonderland. With plenty of skiing adventures, European-inspired villages, and a whole lot of alpine goodness, spending Xmas in Vail should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Vail is a premier ski destination during the winter months and it is packed with fantastic ski resorts. However, if you want to explore beyond the slopes, there are plenty of Christmas-inspired activities to keep you entertained during your visit.

For a day spent in the mountains, a sleigh ride with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is a must, as well as a gondola ride to the top to get a first-hand view of the beauty of Vail Valley.

To get you into the holiday spirit, you should visit the Kris Kringle Market, an outdoor holiday market that will have you feeling as though you’ve landed in Europe. Closer to Christmas Eve, the annual Winterfest is an amazing event, with illuminated ice sculptures and Christmas lights that light up the entire town!

Temperatures in Vail in December range from 24°F to 43°F. In December, you can expect almost 3 inches of snow.

Vail is serviced by two airports: The closest one is Eagle Regional Airport (around a 40-minute drive) as well as Denver International Airport, which is around 120 miles east of Vail (around a two hour drive).

New Orleans, Louisianna

Ashlee Fechino of  The Happiness Function

New Orleans, Louisiana, has an exciting Christmas season. When most people think of New Orleans, they usually think of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) in spring. However, it is one of the best cities to visit in the USA in December. Reasons being – New Orleans has some of fantastic lights and food to experience!

Many restaurants offer French food menus in honor of Réveillon celebrations which only happen during the month of December. Additionally, there are incredible Xmas light displays at hotels such as The Roosevelt Hotel, Hotel Monteleone, and The Bourbon Orleans.

During the month of December, NOLA typically has mild weather for folks wanting to escape the cold, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the town. However, be sure to pack some layers for the evening. You don’t want to miss walking around Bourbon Street (a.k.a. the French Quarter) and catching some live music on Frenchman Street!

If you are looking for a little more adventure in New Orleans and the weather is on the warmer side, don’t miss taking a swamp boat tour or visiting the historic Oak Alley Plantation. There are multiple tour companies to accommodate transportation to and from hotels on different days of the week or rent a car and do it yourself . They are both easy to reach from the French Quarter in New Orleans.

Did you know that you could hold your own Christmas parade in New Orleans, or hire a company that can put one together for you? All you have to do is get a permit from the city and you will get a police escort for free! For these and other amazing money-saving, safety, food and accommodation tips, please see  40 Best Travel Tips For New Orleans For First Time Travelers .

In December, temperatures average 65 degrees Fahrenheit with lows in the mid-40s. You can expect around 4.4 inches of rain.

The French Quarter is a quick 30-minute taxi ride from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Ashlee says, “Plan to stay at the historic Hotel Monteleone. Hotel Monteleone is famous for its Carousel Bar along with an impressive Christmas light display. Be sure to eat at Criollo inside – the turtle soup is a must! Hotel Monteleone is one block from Bourbon Street.”

Alexandria, Virginia

By Brianna of The Casual Travelist

Alexandria, Virginia is a beautiful historic town located just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. While there are tons of  things to do in Alexandria  any time of year, it is one of the best Christmas vacations to take in the United States at Christmas time.

During the first weeks of December, this all American Colonial town celebrates the holidays with a Scottish flair. While you’re wandering the brick paved streets exploring the 18th century buildings, you’re as likely to hear a Scottish brogue as a southern drawl. Each year Alexandria  celebrates its Scottish heritage with the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. Here, Scottish clans parade through town dressed in their finest tartans while bagpipes herald the arrival of Santa Claus.

After welcoming Santa in Scottish style, head over to the Carlyle House to see re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment set up camp to show how Christmas was celebrated in the Eighteenth century.

You can fly into any of Washington DC’s airports but Ronald Regan National Airport is the closest at only 5 miles away.

While weather can be variable, December temperatures average 45 o F during the day and 35 o F at night. You can expect 2.8 inches of rain and 2.2 inches of snow.

Brianna says, “The Alexandrian Hotel is in the heart of old town Alexandria and a great place to base your visit”

Seattle, Washington

By Adria Saracino of The Emerald Palate

Seattle might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but the city has a ton of holiday spirit. Plus, there are less tourists and snowy destinations only an hour away (Leavenworth is two!), so winter is the perfect time to visit one of the best Christmas destinations in the United States.

No matter the weather, there are a ton of Christmas activities in Seattle . For example, there are typically more than 50 holiday craft fairs around the greater Seattle area. The Pacific Northwest has a huge DIY culture, so handmade gifts are easy to come by.

Experiences more your thing? Check out one of the dozens of holiday shows in the city. Head to the classic Nutcracker Ballet or check out the reimagined hip hop and burlesque versions. Another option is to head to Winterfest where they transform the area underneath the Space Needle into a winter wonderland with events, shows, and craft markets.

It’s not Christmas without dazzling decorations, and Seattle has a ton. You can head to Zoo Lights to see fun light installations among the animals. Or you can go to a drive through neighborhood exhibit at the Lights of Christmas Festival or Dazzle .

You can experience Christmas in Seattle by flying into Sea-Tac International Airport and then driving 30 minutes to the city.

Winter temperatures are usually in the high 30s to 40s with around 3.3 inches of rain. However, if you’re lucky to visit during a winter storm you are in for a treat.

The city is extremely hilly and the local government is against using salt because it damages the road and is bad for the environment. So even with what east coasters might think of as a light dusting, the city shuts down for an unofficial snow day. And if it really snows like it has for at least a few days the past few years, you can expect to find people cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the streets!

Adria says, “Everywhere you turn there will be Christmas festivities in Seattle, but if you want to stay in the middle of it all, get a hotel in downtown Seattle. One great option is the swank Fairmont Olympic Hotel with its Festival of Trees that transforms the lobby into a winter forest.

Another option is the more affordable Sheraton Grand, which hosts a huge Gingerbread Village installation in its lobby popular with kids.

Orlando, Florida

Christine of Live Love Run Travel

When looking for the best place to visit in the USA for Christmastime, make sure to put Orlando, Florida, on your list. There are plenty of things to do in Orlando at Christmas , from the theme park holiday events to local events unlike those you’ll see anywhere else.

The theme parks are a popular Xmas destination, but you can also enjoy touring the hotels at Disney without paying for theme park entry. For example, check out the massive Christmas Tree and the huge gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian.

Gaylord Palms also goes over the top at Christmas with their famous ICE! display and other Christmas shows and activities, including some that are free. The theme changes each year, but there are things for all ages to enjoy.

Light Up UCF is another fun and family-friendly place to enjoy at Christmas. With light shows, free movies, and ice skating, it’s a great spot to enjoy for both kids and adults.

Christmas in Orlando is a special time even without the cold and the snow – in fact, that may be the best part of visiting Orlando at Christmas!

To get to Orlando, fly into Orlando International Airport. From there, you can be in downtown Orlando, at the theme parks, or in many of the areas holding Christmas events in about 30 minutes.

Winter in Orlando is one of the best seasons to visit. No hurricanes and humidity (or less humidity at least), and cooler days. You can actually enjoy your time outdoors and not have to deal with the daily thunderstorms found in summertime.

Temperatures range greatly with average temperatures in the mid-70s. Some days can be in the 30s or 40s and others can still get into the upper 80s. There is around 2 inches of rain in December.

It’s a great place to escape the frigid temperatures up north.

For great rates for accommodation in Orlando, please take a look at the interactive map below.

Frankenmuth, Michigan

By Kris of My Michigan Travel

Frankenmuth, Michigan  is a small town known for its German heritage and adorable Bavarian-inspired architecture. Michigan’s “Little Bavaria” is fantastic year round, but it is one of the best places for Christmas spirit in the USA in December.

One of its top attractions is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which claims to be the world’s largest Christmas store. Inside, you’ll find a dizzying array of more holiday decorations and accessories than you could imagine. The store is always popular, but it’s absolutely bustling during the lead up to the holidays. You can shop for ornaments, trees, lights, and more, or take photos with one of the many larger-than-life displays.

Frankenmuth also hosts a traditional Christkindlmarkt during November and December. It features outdoor shopping booths like you’d find throughout Germany and the rest of Europe. You can stroll along the booths selling handmade gifts, décor, and food items. Grab a hot cocoa to sip for warmth! The only thing missing is the gluhwein (hot spiced wine).

Once you’re done, you can fill up on Frankenmuth’s famous family-style chicken dinners. Two competing restaurants – Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn – serve warm, hearty food like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, buttered noodles, cranberry sauce, and more. You can wash it down with Hofbrauhaus beer straight from Munich if you’d like.

The closest international airport is Detroit-Metro. Frankenmuth is about an hour and a half north unless you hit rush hour traffic.

Average temperature in December is 32 o F. You can expect around 4.2 inches of snow. that rarely stays on the ground for long.

Kris says, “There are numerous hotels to choose from, but the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Zehnder’s Splash Village are the most fun.

Bavarian Inn is located across the famous wooden bridge and features multiple pools, waterslides, an arcade, and an indoor mini golf course.

Zehnder’s, located right next door to Bronner’s, has a whole indoor water park in case you’re missing sunny summer days.”

Los Angeles, California

By Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Los Angeles is one of the best cities in the USA to visit for Christmas.

During the winter season, there are lots of enjoyable things to do. Do not miss the Descanso Gardens: Enchanted Forest of Lights. This 150-acre botanical garden puts on a huge walk-through light show every Xmas season. Another recommendation is to visit Universal Studios . The park is totally decked out in Christmas decorations and there are fun Christmas-themed snacks. 

For music lovers, a Christmas concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall makes for a fun evening. The LA Philharmonic normally puts on several Christmas sing-along concerts throughout December. 

The Christmas season in Los Angeles is fun. It is a warm escape but still feels like Christmas because there are massive amounts of decorations everywhere. There are entertaining events all across the city which makes for a unique winter escape.

To get to Los Angeles, you will want to fly into Los Angeles International Airport. This airport is located in Western Los Angeles and it will take about 30 minutes (without traffic) to get to various places across Los Angeles. 

During the winter months, the average weather is in the high 60s, which makes it the perfect escape for people who do not like the cold.

Francesca says, “To be in the best location, stay in Downtown Los Angeles. The Westin Bonaventure or the Millenium Biltmore are two great hotel choices.”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Paulina of On The Road

Milwaukee is a wonderful city for a Xmas destination. Top things and places to enjoy in December include Christkindlmarket which is less crowded than other Christmas markets. It hosts small wooden huts filled with treasures. You can also eat some yummy Christmas delicacies. Another one is the German Christmas Market, popular for all things German. This includes beer, food, BBQ, and mulled wine.

Do not miss “the Ward” on the first Friday of December, which is one of the most famous neighborhoods of Milwaukee. It has exciting fireworks, live reindeer, and Santa. The Holiday Lights Festival is also fantastic for its variety of shows. 

Wisconsin shines in lights and becomes the happiest during this time of the year. The Christmas markets make it special and bright. That is why Milwaukee is one of the best places to visit in the USA during Christmas.

Milwaukee is easily reached by air. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown. If you are keen for a road trip, you can drive from Chicago, which would take about a day.

Weather 

The temperature of Milwaukee in December can range from 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit to -37.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wisconsin sees the highest snowfall during the months of December (around 3.6 inches), January and March. Therefore, pack heavy clothing for outdoor activities. 

Paulina says, “For an affordable stay, you can stay in downtown Milwaukee at County Clare Inn.

Sedona, Arizona

By Jenifer of The Evolista

During Xmas, Sedona is a fantastic holiday escape.

It hosts the festival of lights at Tlaquepaque where they have 6,000 luminarias that adorn the courtyards and walkways. Cheerful holiday displays dress up windows of galleries and restaurants, while live music and a visit from Santa add to the fun. In fact, there are multiple holiday events held in Downtown Sedona all month long.

No matter what time of year you visit, Sedona is well known for 2 things – some of the most amazing hikes and the presence of an energy vortex.

Discover both the healing energy and the best views on Sedona Vortex hikes . Devil’s Bridge is another terrific hike to a natural bridge that’s sure to be a hit for your holiday card photo. The best part is that these hikes are easy enough for most everyone and you get spectacular red rock vistas.

After flying into Phoenix airport, a 2 hour drive will get you to one of the best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.

Christmas in Sedona is festive and fun with average highs in the mid 50s, perfect for some of the prettiest hiking in the USA. While less than 4 days of rain is expected during the month, you might get lucky with a temporary sprinkling of snow on the gorgeous red rock landscape. 

Jenifer says, “Enchantment Resort is a luxurious resort with a spa that’s perfectly located at Boynton Canyon, one of the prettiest spots in town. In addition to their beautiful accommodations, they host multiple activities like guided hikes and mountain bike rides.”

Denver, Colorado

By Michelle of Moyer Memoirs

Denver is one of the best places to visit in the USA during the holiday season because it holds many festive events. There are light displays up and down the 16 th  Street Mall in downtown Denver, including the Mile High Tree. This 110-foot-tall immersive art display lights up with the holiday music. It is lovely to see and hear while strolling around the walk-thru exhibit.

Near the 16 th  Street Mall, the Christkindle Market is a holiday tradition for small businesses that sell hand-crafted artistic gifts and holiday treats. It is reminiscent of German Christmas markets with little wooden huts showcasing their wares, complete with live entertainment and authentic Bavarian pretzels and Glühwein.

Denver has many sites that are open year-round to enjoy even in the cold winter weather, including some great hikes. The Red Rock Amphitheatre should definitely be on your  Denver itinerary . It is only a short drive from downtown and offers beautiful trails in the crisp air of the holiday season.

To get here, the Denver International Airport (DIA) is 25 miles from the heart of downtown. 

December is normally the coldest month of the year with an average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 23°F.  Although it is chilly, it is very dry and the sky will most likely be clear, blue, and sunny. 

Unlike the snowy mountains around the city, it doesn’t snow much in the city of Denver. Typically, snow falls are a few days during December with barely an inch of accumulation.

Michelle says, “If you are staying in downtown Denver, the Curtis Hotel is a uniquely themed boutique hotel.  It has a different theme for each of its 13 guest room floors. The lobby is also themed and very entertaining.  It is a great location for walking around the 16 th  Street Mall and downtown Denver.”

Chicago, Illnois

By Dymphe of Dymabroad

One of the best places for Christmas getaways in the United States is Chicago as there are lots of special things going on in the city.

For example, you can visit the Christkindlmarket. This is a very popular annual Christmas market taking place at Daley Plaza. You can shop for unique handcrafted Xmas gifts and eat delicious Christmas treats.

Besides that, going holiday shopping along the Magnificent Mile during this time is lovely. One of the best places is the shopping mall “Water Tower Place” which has lots of holiday decorations. To be immersed in lights, head over to Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden where you can walk along beautifully lit up trails.

Beyond the Christmas celebrations, Chicago has many amazing attractions to experience . Two of the best museums are the The Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, both on Lake Michigan and near Millennium Park.

The Art Institute is one of the largest museums in North America and houses an impressive collection of impressionist art from some of the greatest artists of all time, such as Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh. You can get lost in the Field Museum’s amazing exhibits, including exploring Egyptian pyramids.

At Skydeck at Willis Tower, you have incredible panoramic views of the city. In Millennium Park, you can see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Also, during December, Millennium Park displays a huge Christmas tree and it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago .

To get to Chicago, you can fly into O’Hare International Airport. From the airport, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to Downtown Chicago.

When visiting the city in December, you can expect an average temperature of 37°F and about 1.5 inches of rain and 2 inches of snowfall.

I have been to Chicago over twenty times. On my most recent trip, I stayed at the Fairfield Inn And Suites Chicago Downtown River North. I was very pleasantly surprised by the amazing location, comfortable beds and the excellent value.

Lake Placid, New York

By Michael and Nicole of Affordable Family Travel

Lake Placid is a wonderful place to spend Christmas. Lake Placid provides the perfect Christmas atmosphere with its snow-covered mountains, a visit with Santa, and snuggling up by a warm fire at one of the lovely lodges in the village.

Enjoy the Lake Placid Village Holiday Stroll and pick up some last-minute gifts at any of the many great shops in the village. Head over to Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY only 20 minutes away where you can meet Santa and his reindeer. The Park offers rides, shows, and of course, Christmas treats.

Lake Placid was home to 2 Winter Olympics so winter is a great time to see the village in all of its glory.

The average temperature in Lake Placid, NY in December is 31 degrees Fahrenheit and they receive an average of 11 inches of snow during the month.

Michael and Nicole say, “Mirror Lake Inn is a quaint hotel with lake view rooms and a large fireplace in its common area. They have a spa and the town’s only 4 Diamond Restaurant. If you are looking for a  budget Lake Placid trip , Hampton Inn is located across the street from the lake with outdoor fire pits and an indoor pool.”

If you are looking for a Christmas destination in the United States, you have lots from which to choose. Whether you prefer a city or small town experience with or without lots of snow, or you wish to enjoy a tropical Christmas escape with gorgeous beaches and plenty of yuletide cheer, you will be thrilled with your choices in America.

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23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

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The 20 best places to go for Christmas

From classic festive getaways to Scrooge-friendly destinations to escape, these are the world’s greatest places to spend Christmas

Photograph: Shutterstock

The most magical time of the year has a habit of transforming destinations around the world: cities get decked out in dazzling decorations, streets teem with local traditions and squares are taken over by pop-up festive markets.

That said, some destinations are great to visit at Christmas for precisely the opposite reason: because you might not even realise it’s Christmas at all. Who hasn’t sometimes wanted to hibernate in the sun until the madness is over? 

And so, when considering the best destinations to visit at Christmas, we haven’t just included places with quirky traditions or an unmissable festive atmosphere - there's plenty of Scrooge-appropriate destinations on here too. Dive into our festive travel list below and you’re guaranteed to find somewhere great to spend the season. 

RECOMMENDED: 💝The best Christmas markets to visit in Europe and worldwide ❄️ The best places to travel in December 🎄The 50 best Christmas movies of all time 🎊The 65 best Christmas songs of all time

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places to go for Christmas

1.  new york city, usa.

Best for:  shopaholics 

From the dreamy romance of ice skating at the Rockefeller to Broadway’s dazzling festive shows, there are plenty of reasons why the Big Apple has such a rep at Christmastime. NYC is a classic festive choice and, with its selection of department stores, markets and bazaars, there remains nowhere quite like it when it comes to shopping, either.

Read more: The best Christmas things to do in NYC

2.  Lapland, Finland

Best for: wannabe Santa elves 

There are few destinations as legendarily Christmassy as Rovaniemi, which, as the capital of Lapland, is also the official hometown of Santa Claus. But Rovaniemi isn’t all about Santa. Once you’re done exploring Santa Claus Village and getting reindeer rides about town, be sure to sweat out your worries with a festive sauna – a Finnish Christmas tradition.

3.  Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: Christmas markets

Sure, each city centre twinkles with lights and exudes wafts of mulled wine throughout December, but few do it as well as Edinburgh. East Princes Street Gardens dazzles every year with a whole host of market stalls, festive food and fairground rides, plus plenty of whisky stands for a warming Christmassy bev. Sticking around for New Year's? The city's Hogmanay celebrations are a world-renowned way to launch 2024. 

4.  New Orleans, USA

Best for: an unconventional Christmas

New Orleans is packed full of alternative Christmas traditions, from its bonfires on the banks of the Mississippi and charmingly redecorated streetcars to its lively carol concerts and glam AF hotel lobby decorations. With daytime temperatures hitting about 17C, it’s also that bit warmer than much of the rest of the continental US at this time of year.

5.  Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: the lads!

No, not those kinds of lads. We’re talking about the ‘Yule Lads’, 13 folkloric dudes who traditionally leave gifts in boots for Iceland ’s well-behaved kids. Christmastime is also just a rather lovely time to visit Reykjavik, with the city boasting markets and ice-skating – as well as, thanks to its extra-long nights, great opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights .

6.  London, UK

Best for: traditional romantics 

Festive cheer sweeps through London sometime in early November and doesn’t let up. By the time the end of December comes around, Christmas vibes hit a fever pitch: the already-very-romantic UK capital finds itself lined by fir trees, twinkling with Christmas lights and sound-tracked by jangly festive tunes. Aye, it’s exactly as magical as it sounds.

Read more: The best Christmas lights in London

7.  Nuremburg, Germany

Best for:  Weihnachtsmarkt fanatics

Germany ’s Weihnachtsmarkts (traditional Christmas markets) are famous the world over – and Nuremburg’s is one of the country’s oldest, biggest and best. Notes of gingerbread and mulled wine waft through a mini city of wooden stalls teeming with candy canes, scrummy lebkuchen and handmade decorations.

8.  Sydney, Australia

Best for: Christmas dinner on the barbie

Looking for somewhere that goes full-throttle for Chrimbo but isn’t so, erm, wintry ? Australia ’s likely your best bet. Sydney has all the festive lights, trees and even ice skating of a typical Christmas-celebrating city, but with toasty average temperature highs of 25C. Don’t knock an Xmas dinner cooked on a beachside barbeque until you’ve tried it.

9.  Bruges, Belgium

Best for: chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate

Turkey, mince pies, and pannetone are all the festive foods that might spring to mind at first, but it wouldn't be Christmas without chocolate. And where's the best place to go for that? Well, it has to be Bruges - from the divinely rich hot chocolates on offer at the market to the traditional Yule log, this little city has bags of Christmassy confection to fill those stockings, or to gorg on under the twinkly lights. 

10.  Tokyo, Japan

Best for: the culturally disconnected 

With no public holiday and everything open as usual, Japan doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – but that’s also its charm. The country is nicely disconnected from the rest of the world’s Xmas mania but still has tonnes of festive stuff to see and do, from Tokyo’s gorgeous winter illuminations to the annual Japanese tradition of getting KFC on Christmas day.

11.  Caracas, Venezuela

Best for: religious roller-skaters

Think you’ve got a neat ride when it comes to heading down to church (if that’s your jam, anyway) during the Christmas period? Check out the locals in Caracas. From December 16-24 before 8am, roads are closed in the Venezuelan capital so that churchgoers can roller-skate to mass. It’s also common for rollerbladers to dress up in Santa gear... does it get much cooler than that?

12.  Marrakech, Morocco

Best for: festive escapees 

Christmas isn’t celebrated by the vast majority of people in Marrakech, making it perfect for escaping conventional festive vibes. The Moroccan city also isn’t anywhere near as hot in December as it is in the summertime (hitting highs of 20C without dipping too low at night), so exploring its medina, souks, mosques and riads is even more pleasant.

13.  Greenland

Best for: adventurous eaters

The festive period in Greenland is best known for its food: specifically mattak (essentially a strip of whale skin) and kiviak (a kind of fermented seabird). Both are a delicacy to natives, but they’re likely a bit more, er, stomach-testing to the rest of us.

14.  Phuket, Thailand

Best for: clubbers and beachside chillers

Sure, if you really want to, you can have a perfectly Christmassy time in Phuket. The island has plenty of carol concerts and festive dinners if you so want them. However, it’s an ideal place to get away from all the usual festivities, too. As a largely Buddhist country, Thailand doesn’t really celebrate Christmas – leaving you free to chill out at a beachside bar or go clubbing as if it’s any normal day of the year.

15.  Prague, Czech Republic

Best for: aesthetes

With its awesome gothic churches and winding baroque streets, Prague is one of Europe’s most dazzlingly pretty cities at any time of the year. But at Christmastime? Well, the Czech capital somehow gets even prettier. The key attractions here are the markets, which take over the likes of Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square with local specialities such as medovina (honey wine), rybí polévka (traditional fish soup) and perníčky (spicy gingerbread).

16.  Vienna, Austria

Best for: total festive immersion

Whether you’re watching Krampuses (a sort of nightmarish Austrian anti-Santa) roam the streets, munching on toffee apples at one of the city’s many Christmas markets or simply soaking in the very, very pretty street decorations, we challenge you not to get totally swept up in Vienna’s all-encompassing Chrimbo vibes.

17.  Cape Town, South Africa

Best for: sun bunnies

The beauty of the southern hemisphere in December is that the climate is precisely the opposite of the chilly north. With its long days of uninterrupted sunshine and temperatures in the high 30Cs, Cape Town offers a totally different Chrimbo vibe. Festive picnic atop Table Mountain or in the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, anyone?

18.  Singapore

Best for: light display fanatics

With main thoroughfare Orchard Road hosting a celebration on Xmas Eve complete with countdown and fireworks, Christmas in Singapore has a unique New Year’s Eve feel about it. Most legendary, however, are the city’s light displays. From the Christmas Wonderland in the Gardens by the Bay to the light shows at Vivocity, Singapore sure knows how to put on a mesmerising electrical show.  

19.  Guatemala City, Guatemala

Best for: demon banishers

There’s something very purifying about burning stuff – and Guatemalans know that so well that they’ve made a tradition out of it. Every year on December 7, Guatemala celebrates the ‘Día del Diablo’ (or ‘Day of the Devil’), kicking off the Christmas period by burning an effigy of the devil. The act is intended to symbolise the cleansing of bad spirits.

20.  Colmar, France

Best for: Christmas dreamers

Even in the height of summer, Colmar, a thirteenth-century town in the eastern French region of Alsace, looks rather a lot like it’s made out of gingerbread. Add a dusting of snow, some tasteful Christmas lights and a characterful festive market? You’ve got one of the world’s most picture-perfect Xmas destinations.

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The best Christmas holiday destinations for 2023

By Laura Chubb , Anya Meyerowitz and Emma Love

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

After years of Christmas travel being put on pause, 2022 saw avid travellers embrace the festive escape once more. Christmas holiday destinations are a contentious issues among large families, however. An amble around Europe's famous Christmas markets is on most people's bucket lists, but then there's the practicalities of finding a cosy bolthole in a new city – to tree, or not to tree? Winter sun spots like Australia and South Africa were out of bounds in recent years due to strict Covid entry requirements, but families are free to reunite on whichever side of the globe they wish – and doing so in droves. With plenty of options back on the agenda, we've listed the best holiday destinations for Christmas in 2023. To stay closer to home, see our pick of the best UK Airbnbs to book for Christmas .

Why? For ultimate beach bliss. Clear water laps against the sandy shores, palm trees sway, and the chill of the UK seems so far away. There’s also something for everyone; larger resorts and villas for families on the larger Thai islands , boutique and big-name hotels on some of the smaller ones, and hostels at every turn for a cost-effective, island-hopping festive experience. Every type of traveller is catered to somewhere, and the beaches are undeniably divine, making it ideal for intergenerational escapes.

Insider tip: Christmas in Thailand is delightful, but New Year’s Eve is another spectacle altogether. Stay on Koh Samui and head to the beaches for raucous parties and kaleidoscopic firework displays, or head to one of the many beach clubs and high-end hotels for a more civilised affair. Alternatively, a two-stop trip could be the bucket list adventure to beat them all. You’ll likely need to pass through Bangkok to reach the islands, so consider sticking around on the return leg to experience the celebrations in one of Asia’s largest metropolises, watching the colourful explosions illuminate the Chao Phraya River.

Where to stay: Splash out on a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui for the most indulgent festive escape, and you’ll barely need to lift a finger. It’s a large resort, but it doesn’t feel that way, thanks to clever landscaping and guest rooms hidden among the towering trees and wild flora. Connor Sturges

Gran Canaria

Why? For (almost) guaranteed short-haul sun. The average temperature can hover around 20C on December afternoons, perfect for long sunny lunches along the harbour and walks along the coast – take a tip if you dare.

Insider tip: Hire a car to experience all Gran Canaria has to offer. December isn’t quite sunbathing season, but it’s ideal for exploring the charming towns, historic churches, markets and natural wonders dotted across the island.

Where to stay: Gran Canaria is an ideal Christmas holiday destination for families with broods in tow, but the island is no longer the reserve of those needing all-inclusive convenience. Adults-only Hotel Veintiuno is set in an 18th-century colonial house and offers cosy rooms, a rooftop swimming pool and a location ideal for exploring the capital Las Palmas. Connor Sturges

The Cotswolds

Why? To experience a quintessentially English Christmas. Chocolate box villages dusted in snow, cosy evenings by pub fires, and the chime of churchbells ricocheting off period properties.

Insider tip: The Cotswolds has some of the cutest Christmas markets around. Broadway’s market is the perfect place to enjoy gooey raclette, a glass of mulled wine and a last-minute spot of shopping from craft stalls.

Where to stay: Cotswolds cottages don’t come cheap at Christmas, but make it a family affair, and it’ll be one to remember. Check out our guide to the best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds for some inspiration, or look to Luxury Cotswold Rentals for gargantuan homes designed to fit all the family… and some. Connor Sturges

Bruges, Belgium

Why: The fairy-tale Christmas scene – snowy, gabled houses and twinkly cobblestone streets – doesn’t get much more quintessential than in Belgium’s prettiest city. The medieval centre is known for its Gothic architecture, and the squares are strung with fairy lights and dotted with market stalls selling crafts and waffles wrapped in paper. Blow away the cobwebs on Christmas morning with a bracing walk alongside the icy canals, followed by a stint in one of the cosy pubs.

Insider tip: Belgian chocolatiers are famous for good reason – and Christmas is a great time to sample the wares of as many different stores as possible. We particularly like Spegelaere, a family-run chocolate shop just outside the city centre. Sarah James

Where to stay: Embrace the romance of the town with a B&B stay. The canal-side Bonifacius was famously used by Ralph Fiennes, Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson as a green room during the filming of In Bruges . An immaculate breakfast here is served in the intimate Gothic Room. If you can brave the cold, wander up the winding staircase to the roof terrace where you'll find exceptional views over the Church of Our Lady and 13th-century belfry.

New York City, USA

Why : Sure, everyone knows Christmas in New York is special – but do they know it’s romantic, too? From ice-skating under the Rockefeller Center tree, to riding the gorgeously restored, vintage Jane’s Carousel on the East River-front, and strolling hand-in-hand across a twinkly Brooklyn Bridge, this is movie-grade amour .

Insider tip : Cuddle up on a Christmassy date at Williamsburg ’s Nitehawk Cinema . Even better, you can order food and cocktails right to your seat.

Where to stay: For the full New York at Christmas movie magic experience, nothing can beat The Plaza . A stay here is particularly magical for children, where little ones can call on the service of a family 'ambassador' and goodies on offer include a closet full of dressing-up gear, children's terrycloth bathrobes and a $100 gift card for nearby toy store FAO Schwartz. See our pick of the best hotels in New York for more.

Barbados, Caribbean

Why? The Caribbean has always been a favourite destination for cruise-fans over the festive period, with its honey-hued beaches and cerulean waters, and Barbados is arguably its star attraction. The festive season is the island’s sweet spot, where it is at its most relaxed until mid-December and still enjoying balmy temperatures, however the hotel prices often drop and the UK fashion set has yet to jet in for New Year’s Eve. It’s hard to picture a Christmas spent among the coconut palms and rolling surf, doused in sunscreen, rather than curled up in a jumper, but we’re certain you’ll soon get used to it… 

Insider tip: If you can’t bear to miss out on your Christmas Cake fix, tuck into the Bajan version (known as a ‘Great Cake’), made with local rum. Really get the flavour of things by booking a day trip to the Mount Gay rum distillery – we defy you not to be singing carols at the top of your voice by the end of it. 

Where to stay: Swap the supersized resorts for Cobblers Cove , a 40 bedroom bolthole that's dressed delightfully – think millennial- pink accents and candy-cane-striped pool umbrellas – like a tropical country club. For more recommendations, see our edit of the best hotels in Barbados . 

Why: Forget the 12 days of Christmas – the festive season in Iceland lasts a full 26. In fact, most Icelandic traditions at this time of year are bigger and more elaborate than those in the UK – including the 13 Santa Clauses who bring presents to children across the country. The chances of seeing the Northern Lights in December are also pretty good, and experiencing a white Christmas here is all but a given. In the capital Reykjavík , the frozen central pond of Tjörnin is a brilliant spot for ice skating on Christmas Day, while the big celebration is on Christmas Eve, with a supper of smoked lamb and langoustine.

Insider tip: If you stay until New Year’s Eve , you can catch the city’s unique fireworks display – locals purchase their own and the sky is lit up with countless mini displays when midnight strikes.

Where to stay: Reykjavik Edition has a standout location plus a rooftop terrace for viewing the northern lights. Another option is Kvosin Downtown Hotel , a charismatic boutique property with fantastic apartment suites. See our pick of the best Iceland hotels for more. 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Why : This Middle Eastern playground can make every generation feel like a kid again – whether that’s riding the slides of its water parks, sledding down a ski slope in a shopping mall, or jumping around on its giant trampoline park, Bounce . And while Christmas isn’t a national holiday here, bling-bling Dubai can’t resist this twinkly time of year: the malls and hotels are all a-sparkle with lights and enormous trees. Add to that the weather (highs of 26˚C in December), plentiful beaches, and all-ages fun (such as ogling a giant dancing fountain or speeding up the world’s tallest building), and it’s not such an out-there idea.\

Insider tip : Don’t miss the surreal experience of shopping centre Souk Madinat Jumeirah at Christmas, when there’s a German market, a snowball zone, and Santa riding a gondola-sleigh around the mall’s canals.

Where to stay: All of the major players are here but for a change of pace, try the newly opened 25hours Hotel One Central , where 30-something hipsters and creatives move between the co-working spaces, pottery and podcast studios, and mixed-gender saunas. The rooms and suites here are equally un-Dubai, with hammocks, sheik-sized beds, and private bar areas with room for a DJ.

Finnish Lapland

Why : It's been a while since we've had a bit of child-like magic at Christmas. Lapland needn’t just be for kids either: throw over Santa and snowmen for cosy nights in glass igloos, and romantic husky-sled rides through forests glittering with frost. Head up to Ylläs and you can even get steamy in a sauna gondola: a cable car converted into a sauna, which takes guests on a 20-minute ride. An outdoor Jacuzzi session and traditional sauna are included in the (admittedly steep) price. Note that a typical Lappish Christmas dinner often involves reindeer, which seems like a truth only suitable for an adult.

Insider tip : If you’re looking to work off all that Christmas food, Ylläs National Park opens up its snowshoe tracks to fatbikers, so you can pedal your way around this wintry wonderland and work up a real sweat.

Where to stay: In one of the glass igloos at Apukka Resort near Rovaniemi, perfect for cosying up to watch the Northern Lights from bed. All igloos have sofa beds so they're great options for families, while self-catering apartments are also available.  

Cape Town, South Africa

Why: For a blast of winter sun with a sprinkling of festive spirit, all without the jet lag. In December , the top draw in Cape Town is usually carols by candlelight at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Children will also love the holiday activities at the V&A Waterfront, from magic shows on the croquet lawn, to puppet shows and face painting at the aquarium. If you're organised, book in to one of the best restaurants in Cape Town for an extra special Christmas or Boxing Day lunch. City centre restaurant FYN recently made it onto The World's 50 Best Restaurants list. 

Insider tip: The most obvious place to spend Christmas Day is at the beach – whether you fancy surfing at Llandudno or people-watching at Camps Bay. For a change of pace, book a table on the terrace at Grande Provence, a stellar wine estate in Franschhoek.

Where to stay: For the best poolside scene in the city, check in to Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel . The Wes-Anderson -style pink palace has clear views of Table Mountain from its main terrace, making it one of the best spots for a sundowner in Cape Town.

The Bahamas

Why: Boxing Day can sometimes feel a little flat – especially if you’ve over-indulged with too many helpings of trifle at Christmas lunch – but not in the Bahamas where the annual Junkanoo Parade brings a carnival party vibe to the streets. The biggest event takes place in Nassau where the sound of drums, horns and cow bells fill the air and musicians and dancers dressed in elaborate bejewelled costumes shimmy their way through the town. Afterwards, pick up a conch salad (try Dino’s, by Compass Point) and head to the beach.

Insider tip: For those wanting a quieter escape hop on the ferry to Eleuthera, known for its coral-pink sand and clusters of cays, and nab one of the chic safari-style tents at The Other Side.

Where to stay: If you're travelling with little ones, SLS Baha Mar is perfectly set up for families, most notably for their poolside cabanas, kitted out with couches, a mini fridge, a flat-screen TV, and waiter service. For couples, check in to the all-inclusive, adults-only Warwick Paradise Island .

St Moritz, Switzerland

Why: What better way to kick off Christmas Day than with an exhilarating family toboggan run from Preda to Bergun? This glitzy Alpine ski resort comes up trumps with plenty of festive sporty fun on offer from ice skating (there are two rinks, at the Kulm Country Club and Lake St Moritz ) to snowshoe hikes and even snowkiting on the Bernina Pass. Those who prefer to slow the pace can wrap up warm for a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride or tap into centuries-old spa traditions – the Kulm Hotel has a heated open-air pool that looks out onto a winter wonderland.

Insider tip: After a morning spent swooshing down the slopes, refuel at an Alpine hut with panoramic mountain views, such as El Paradiso Mountain Club or the legendary Alpina Hutte. See our St Moritz insider tips for more. 

Where to stay: The obvious options are Badrutt’s Palace and the Kulm Hotel but for something cosier, book one of the seven rooms at the art-loving Villa Flor in nearby Zuoz. 

St Lucia, Caribbean

Why : Caribbean islands don’t come more romantic than St Lucia , with its dreamy views of the Pitons, incredible beaches and chocolate plantations (meaning you can expect chocolate-covered spa treatments, and couples’ chocolate-making classes). Thanks to a strong Catholic culture, Christmas is a big deal here, too: St Lucian twists include its traditional, deep-red sorrel drink (made with cinnamon, cloves and ginger), and black Christmas pudding (soaked in red wine). While roast turkey remains on the menu, expect sweet potatoes and plantains in place of parsnips and sprouts.

Insider tip : The island ’s most interesting restaurant for a romantic meal is undoubtedly The Rabot Hotel , at Hotel Chocolat’s cocoa-plantation-set boutique residence. Along with head-on views of Petit Piton, you’ll eat a cacao-infused menu, featuring dishes such as tuna-dorado tartare with cacao nibs and cacao beer pork tenderloin.

Where to stay: The Rabot Hotel was also voted the best hotel in the Caribbean in our Reader's Choice Awards. 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Why: Mexico goes big on Christmas – elaborate nativity scenes, street processions, plazas decked with fairy lights, festive piñatas – so it’s ideal for a taste of tradition with a side of sunshine. Forgo the rowdy Caribbean coast for the more laid-back Pacific side, where family-friendly town Puerto Vallarta excels at ‘something for everyone’: snorkelling trips around the Marietas Islands’ ‘Hidden Beach’; a sunset boat ride to Las Caletas cove for a traditional dance show; wandering around botanical gardens and eating at torch-lit waterfront restaurants.

Insider tip: The Malecón is Puerto Vallarta’s seafront promenade, the centre of community activity and a riot at Christmas, with craft markets, street-food vendors, palm trees hung with stockings and Santa-hat-wearing sand men.

Where to stay: At handmade hotel Verana , where 10 casas are embedded in the jungle with spellbinding views of the ocean. Families will love One&Only Mandarina where you can opt to stay in oversized treehouses or ocean-facing villas, and the fantastical kids’ club was designed by Academy Award-winning art director Brigitte Broch, whose wonderland sets have been seen in Moulin Rouge! and Romeo + Juliet .

Why : A tropical Christmas in Hawaii still feels festive. On Oahu, Honolulu City Hall is festooned with lights, and has a heavily decorated 50ft-tree out front; on Maui, Santa rocks up at Wailea Beach on Christmas Eve via outrigger canoe. Any one of these preternaturally gorgeous islands will appeal across the generations, with their mix of white-sand beaches, watersports, and family-friendly hijinks.

Insider tip : On Oahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center hosts a Christmas marketplace; on certain days, real snow is brought in for making snowmen. Check out Hukilau Marketplace for updates.

Where to stay: At Four Seasons Resort Hualãlai , fresh off a multiyear, multimillion-dollar renovation that saw a refresh of every guest room, the expansion of its family-friendly villa offerings, a sleek new pool and several updates to its world-class golf course. 

Whistler, Canada

Why : Dreaming of a white Christmas? It doesn’t get much merrier than North America ’s favourite ski resort, where snow is guaranteed, as are festively freezing temperatures. As well as a heap of family entertainment (the weekly Fire & Ice show sees skiers jumping through fiery hoops), there’s everything from ice skating to snowmobiling for the kids, and the slopes stay open on Christmas Day. Large, luxurious chalets are plentiful around Whistler Village: many with gorgeous views of Blackcomb Peak, patio heaters for outdoor evenings, and games rooms to keep all ages entertained.

Insider tip : Canadians are more likely to feast on pumpkin pie than Christmas pud on 25 December. Save the hassle of making your own and pick one up at local favourite Peaked Pies – it’s actually an Aussie bakery, but Whistler’s hungry skiers love it.

Where to stay: If it's your first time, opt to stay amongst the action of Whistler Village at Sundial , a boutique hotel with a rooftop hot tub, or nearby at Four Seasons Resort Whistler.

Bali, Indonesia

Why: You don’t have to look hard for the romance in Bali . Horseback rides on the beach? Check. Gripping each other tightly on a scooter, zipping past 50-shades-of-green rice fields? But, of course. Glamping in the jungle, with your own private saltwater pool? Well hello, Capella Ubud. And then, when you’re hankering for a festive fix, there’s the Canggu Xmas Bazaar: a unique blend of traditional wooden Balinese architecture, festive crafts and Indonesian street food. Kitschy, yes – but it’s Christmas, after all.

Insider tip: Top off Christmas Day with a fireworks display: locals love setting them off once darkness falls, and if you head to the beach in Canggu you’ll catch one of Bali’s more fabulous sunsets, too.

Where to stay: For a private stay, takeover one of these villas in Bali . In Ubud, we like the look of Sharma Springs , a six-storey bamboo villa that sleeps up to ten (a fifth bedroom is located in a separate guest house) and has its own private pool and yoga pavilion.

Salvador, Brazil

Why: Rio de Janeiro might be the kingpin Brazilian party capital on New Year’s Eve but for festive cheer, head north to the Bahia city of Salvador . With a fusion of African and Brazilian culture, this place crackles with energy all year round – but cranks it up several notches at Christmas. The pastel-hued houses of the UNESCO historic quarter make a colourful backdrop for impromptu marching band parades where the drummers dress up as Santa, and live music and dancing in the squares.

Insider tip: From here, it’s a two-hour (often choppy) boat trip to Morro de Sao Paulo, on the tip of Ilha de Tinharé. There are five numerically-named beaches: first beach is crowded and for watersports, by the time you reach fifth, you’re likely to have the sand to yourself.

Where to stay: The grand Hotel Fasano Salvador stands tall in a carefully restored 1930s building – once the former headquarters of the A Tarde newspaper – and has spectacular city views from its rooftop pool.

Berlin, Germany

Why : If you’re looking to combine Yuletide cheer with a breathless party scene, you won’t go far wrong with Berlin . The Germans practically invented Christmas (we have them to thank for embellishments including decorated trees, baubles and tinsel), and they’re the undisputed world champions of the Christmas market (find a toboggan run and ice rink at Potsdamer Platz; Alexanderplatz packs a Ferris wheel and Christmas ‘pyramid’ with more than 5,000 lights). The city’s club scene hardly closes down as December comes to a close, however; on the contrary, it often ramps up, making it one of the best Christmas holiday destinations for those looking to party before spilling out into the snow.

Insider tip : Clubbing stints require planning: wear sturdy shoes and at least one T-shirt change. Dresses and heels aren’t simply impractical – they usually induce the bouncers to turn you away.

Where to stay: If you're here for the nightlife, Orania.Berlin — a luxury hotel in the edgy Kreuzberg district – is surrounded by some of the city’s best clubs. Radisson Collection Hotel , with its two-storey-high freestanding cylindrical aquarium, is an ideal option for families.

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Why : Morocco isn’t exactly big on Christmas, though you’ll still find traces of it in big-city malls and hotels, and there are Catholic churches throughout the country (thanks to historic Spanish and French influences). Make a beeline for the remote Atlas Mountains just outside Marrakech . 

Insider tip : If you’re set on scaling Mount Toubkal, be aware that this time of year requires serious skills, crampons and ice axes. Alternatively, stay below the snow line with treks through Ouirgane National Park and Azzaden Valley, which are excellent in their own right, but also have great views of Toubkal.

Where to stay: Handily, some smart retreats have sprung up in this rugged region, so you can go off-grid in style. Berber Lodge – village-like and set inside an olive grove – is low-key, glam and gorgeous.

Kilimanjardo, Tanzania

Why: Christmas is one of the busiest times of year to climb the Roof of Africa . So, if you’re travelling solo, but fancy meeting new people, this is a great way to tap in to some group spirit while also ticking off a life goal – pack your Santa hat for commemorative pictures at the top. As Christianity is a major religion in Tanzania , the holiday is very much celebrated: though it’s more low-key than the West’s commercial circus, you’ll see enough trees and baubles to feel suitably full of good cheer. Forget the turkey, though: Tanzanian families tend to go all out and buy a goat or a cow for the big dinner.

Where to stay: It’s practically mandatory that you follow up the Kili trek with a restorative break in Zanzibar. The village-style Zuri hotel has 56 standalone bungalows set amid dense bush and spice gardens, with Indian Ocean waves rolling just beyond your window.

Val d'Isere, France

Why : This St-Tropez -on-snow is the party ski resort, and a Christmas card-worthy delight this time of year, too. Here in the powder-swept Alps , there’s no shortage of festive markets, steaming vin chaud , or decadent Christmas menus paired with Champagne . On Christmas Day, ski lifts are open as usual and Dick’s Tea Bar , the party place-to-be, brings the après with resident DJs. 

Insider tip : Luxury travel specialist Scott Dunn tells us you can’t beat L’Atelier d’Edmond for a decadent Christmas dinner. This double- Michelin-starred stunner typically rustles up a tasting menu that forgoes turkey for the more refined flavours of Arctic char and deer.

Where to stay: Val has been outdoing itself with ultra-luxe chalets lately: seven-room Chalet Husky has a climbing wall, infinity waterfall and space for rifle shooting and archery; at Arctic Townhouse , you’ll find a sauna, indoor hot tub and screening room. For more, see our where to stay in Val d'Isere guide. 

Dude ranch, Colorado

Why : For a solo Christmas with just the right mix of adventure and home comforts, playing cowboy (or cowgirl) at a dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains could be ideal. You’ll spend your days getting active in that crisp mountain air – riding horses, learning to shoot and lasso – and evenings sharing hearty home-cooked meals, swapping stories around a campfire or square-dancing at the local saloon. Colorado’s little mountain towns come alive with holiday lights and festivities this time of year, and the region is stuffed with dude ranches offering seasonal packages, which typically include a snowy horseback ride and family-style feast on Christmas Day.

Where to stay: Dude ranches come in all styles and sizes, so do your research on the vibe. Sundance Trail Guest Ranch , for example, is small and low-key, with a real focus on a homestay-style experience, while C Lazy U Ranch is more like a hotel and goes all-out with sleigh rides and Santa PAs.

Volunteering in Cusco, Peru

Why : Christmas is a time for giving, so if you feel like doling out some good cheer, try a festive break with International Volunteer HQ . You could even combine it with a pilgrimage – in Cusco, for example, IVHQ volunteers wrap presents and prep Christmas decorations for underprivileged local children; why not independently tack on the Inca Trail trek to nearby Machu Picchu , too?

Insider tip : Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is a brilliant spot for Christmas Eve, with its market and incense-filled churches. Stick around to see the whole city explode with fireworks at midnight.

Himalayan Trekking, Nepal

Why : Sometimes, in order to escape Christmas, you need to escape the world entirely. Even in Kathmandu, a colourful clash of Hindu temples and Buddhist prayer flags, Christmas Day is a recognised holiday – with Santa hats, decorated trees and glittering lights to match. There’s never been a better time, then, to leapfrog the masses and head for the Roof of the World on an Annapurna trek. Though it can get cold up in the Himalayas this time of year, the trails are blissfully quiet. Even better, a proper trek should take at least a week, so if you head off on Christmas Eve, it’s all about New Year by the time you’re back – when Santa will be safely absent 'til next winter.

Insider tip : December’s daytime temperatures and clear skies make ideal hiking weather, but come nightfall, the mercury will usually dip below freezing. Be sure to bring a down sleeping bag and plenty of layers.

Cartagena, Colombia

Why: ‘Partying’ in Colombia might once have been synonymous with cocaine, but if there’s one place that really shows how the country has changed, it’s Caribbean seaside city Cartagena : no longer a best-kept secret, but a bona fide tourism big-hitter. Crowds come for the buzz of the picturesque Old Town, livelier than ever at Christmas: where festivities spill into cobblestoned streets, public squares shimmer with over-the-top trees and giant baubles and the colonial mansions’ famous flower-filled balconies are strung with lights.

Insider tip: Formerly sketchy, now shabby-chic Getsemani isn’t just Cartagena’s hippest neighbourhood (with interactive pop-up dining and factories-turned-pizza-restaurants), it’s the best damn nightlife spot in the city, too. Bazurto Social Club is the place for sultry salsa dancing with locals, or touristy Café Havana – all retro 1930s style, Panama hats and lethal mojitos – pops five nights a week until 4am.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena , a former 17th-century monastery located a short walk from the beach. 

Sydney, Australia

Why : This is where probably the world’s most famous Christmas Day beach party is held. On 25 December, Santa-hat-wearing crowds descend on Bondi ’s beloved crescent for barbecues and frolics. Lifeguards even plant a fir tree in the sand and, in the absence of snow, many folk build festive sandmen. However, anyone planning a rowdy booze-fest will be disappointed: the entire beach is an alcohol-free zone. Christmas just not Christmas without grog? Nearby, The Bavarian Bondi Beach will be a beery riot, and even does a Christmas roast .

Insider tip : For a less crowded experience, try Balmoral Beach, where the Bathers’ Pavilion usually puts on both a booze-included buffet and a three-course lunch. The restaurant’s wall of glass patio doors, which look out to sea, just might seal the deal.

Where to stay: Park Hyatt Sydney , beloved for its location tucked beneath the Harbour Bridge and it mosaic rooftop pool that is one of the city's great spots. 

Salzburg, Austria

Why? Incidentally, just voted one of the top 20 best cities to visit in the world in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2021 , Salzburg really turns on the charm over the festive period. Decked out in its finest baroque regalia and surrounded by the Alps’ lofty peaks – smothered in snow – a December spent among the clock towers and chocolate box architecture of the Old Town begs a knitted jumper, rosy cheeks and a constant sense of occasion. The Salzburg Christmas Market on Cathedral Square conjures the sort of romantic, fairytale scene that might be plucked from a cheesy rom-com, and there’s no finer way to escape the cold than to take your seat for a Mozart concert in the composer’s own birthplace. 

Insider tip: In Austria , warming up chilly fingers over a hot chocolate is an unmitigated delight, and one that the city takes very, very seriously. You’ll have no trouble finding somewhere to stop, but for an extra special treat, head for Mozart’s favourite café, Café Tomaselli. 

Where to stay: For a spectacular view, we love the look of the large sun terrance at this penthouse apartment on Airbnb , located at the foot of Gaisberg and a 10-minute bus or car ride from  Salzburg city centre. 

25 Best Christmas Vacations in the USA

Whether your idea of the perfect holiday getaway is to be surrounded by snowy mountains, twinkling city lights, or sandy beaches, one thing is for sure: there are plenty of unforgettable options for Christmas vacations in the USA that fit your travel style!

In fact, there are many wonderful places to visit in December that choosing just one can be overwhelming (trust me, we’ve learned that the hard way).

Determined to take a festive getaway this December but aren’t sure where you want to go?

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to create this bucket list of the best Christmas vacations in the USA, from classic white Christmas destinations to beach getaways that will have you pulling out your bathing suit and abandoning your heavy coat at home.

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, there’s a US Christmas getaway here for you!

Table of Contents

Coolest Cities for Christmas Vacations in the US

Charming small-town christmas getaways in the usa, nature-focused christmas trips in the united states, best us destinations for christmas at the beach.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Washington D.C.

From Lara of Both Feet on the Road

If you are looking for the best USA Christmas trips, a visit to the National Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. has to be added to your bucket list!

For nearly 100 years, the lighting of The National Christmas Tree near the White House has been a tradition.

With famous singers, the enormous tree, and spectacular lighting ceremonies are a must for all Christmas lovers in Washington D.C.

However, even if you’re not there at the opening lighting ceremony, you can admire the gigantic Christmas tree from mid-December until the beginning of January.

The National Christmas Tree is surrounded by handmade Christmas ornaments representing all U.S. states and territories, and every night there are different musical performances around the tree.

The lights or on between 4:30 P.M. and10:00 P.M., so make sure you also visit in the evening for the best experience.

Besides ticking “visiting the National Christmas Tree” off your bucket list, there are a number of other great festive things to do in Washington D.C. around Christmas.

Including visiting one of the many Christmas markets, the festive lights at the National Zoo, the Georgetown GLOW, the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree, the Union Station tree, the Library of Congress Tree, The City Center Tree, or the Botanic Garden Tree.

All of these and more feature beautiful festive decorations to help you get in the holiday spirit!

Where to Stay in Washington DC

• CitizenM Capitol : Another stunning example of CitizenM hotels is this location in Washington DC Capitol. Expect all the style and comfort these hotels are known for.
• Riggs Washington DC : Located in the former home of Riggs National Bank this iconic building is now home to a classic and beautiful hotel. Rooms are huge and comfortable and offer views of Penn Quarter.

Chicago, Illinois

From Diana of Travels in Poland

Chicago is a beautiful place to visit for Christmas in the United States. 

As a city that tends to be quite cold in the winter, the chances of snowfall or cold weather are pretty much guaranteed. 

The city itself goes all out in creating a festive atmosphere for its residents as well as out-of-town visitors.

Chicago has an official tree lighting ceremony at Millenium Park every year. Typically the tree lighting is accompanied by musical performances. 

Millennium Park is also a short walk away from the German Christkindlmarket at the Daley Plaza which mirrors Christmas markets in Germany. 

There are dozens of booths, representing different parts of Germany in food and artisan items.

Chicago also has ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo as well as the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. 

The latter has about one million lights adorning Michigan Avenue and creates an illuminated atmosphere during the Christmas season.

Not too far away is the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier where visitors can experience a festive and decorated pier with numerous holiday attractions geared towards kids and families. 

The Museum of Science and industry also hosts an exhibition where trees are decorated to showcase the way other countries and cultures celebrate the holidays. 

Regardless of what one may choose to do, being in Chicago during Christmas is magical and an experience unlike anywhere else.

Where to Stay in Chicago, Illinois

• CitizenM: Stylish, colorful, trendy, and ultimate comfort. This hotel on the Chicago Loop is the perfect spot for your winter in Chicago.
• Hotel Felix: Located in River North this modern hotel is a great choice for your trip. Rooms are earthy and comfortable, and you are a short distance from Chicago Theatre, perfect for getting home easily after an evening show.

New York, New York

From Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

New York City does Christmas better than any other city in the world. 

The fabulous decorations, holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and special events all over the city are worth the trip: if NYC can’t put you in the holiday spirit nothing will!

When it comes to decorations, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is the most famous, but you should also check out the holiday windows at the big department stores like Saks, Macy’s, and Bergdorf. 

If you want to venture outside Manhattan, the residents of the Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn go all out with decorating their homes!

If you are looking to buy gifts, check out the Bryant Park Holiday Market.  You will find lots of boutique shops, delicious food, and even ice skating. 

Speaking of ice skating, there are several rinks in Manhattan.  The Rockefeller Center rink will generally be the most crowded, but you can also go to the one in Central Park.

One of the most popular Christmas traditions in NYC is the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. The dancing and special effects are inspiring. 

Another special event is the Holiday Train Show at the NY Botanical Gardens. You can see miniature versions of many iconic landmarks. 

This is just the tip of the iceberg, there is so much to see in New York during the holiday season . 

Where to Stay in New York

• The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
• The Renwick: Offering stylish residential style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Oklahoma City might not be the first place you think of for a Christmas getaway, but there are a lot of special winter activities that take place here during the holiday season.

If you love theater and ballet, your first stop should be the Civic Center Music Hall to see the Oklahoma City Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker.

This show tends to sell out early, so make sure to buy your tickets in advance.

If you’re after beautiful Christmas lights, head to “Downtown in December” which is one of Oklahoma City’s most popular festivals .

This event also includes an outdoor ice skating rink, snow tubing, and free rides on the water taxi in the Bricktown Canal, as well as one-off parties like the tree lighting ceremony and Mistletoe Market. 

You can also see great Christmas Lights in Nichols Hills. If it’s a White Christmas, add a drive around Lake Hefner.

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll love attending a game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena to see the Oklahoma City Thunder.

OKC’s NBA team is often selected to play on Christmas Day, but even if they aren’t at home on Christmas you can typically see a game in the days before or after Christmas.

If you’re in town on New Year’s Eve, you can head down to Bricktown’s Opening Night Festival, the most popular New Year’s Eve party in the state.

Boston, Massachusetts

New England’s largest city is absolutely beautiful year-round, but during the holiday season, Back Bay sparkles a little brighter (with seemingly endless rows of Christmas lights), the already-stately brick homes of Beacon Hill are given a festive facelift, and Christmas trees dot the city.

You’ll definitely want to pack your warmest clothes and heaviest coat to explore Boston in winter, but the city’s incredible beauty shines bright in December, making Boston one of the best Christmas vacations in the United States.

While you’re there, be sure to go ice skating in City Hall Plaza, check out the Boston Pops holiday show, and, if you’re into the classics, the Boston Opera House’s gorgeous Nutcracker performance.

It’s hard to say where the best Christmas light displays are in the city–there are simply too many impressive neighborhoods to count–but the Boston Common, Fanueil Hall, Quincy Market, the North End, and of course, Back Bay and Beacon Hill as mentioned above, all deserve a wander.

And, of course, many of the classic things to do in Boston , from exploring the Freedom Trail to museum-hopping, are still a delight (if a bit chilly) in December.

Where to Stay in Boston

• Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
• Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for crisp afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

From Derek of Robe-Trotting

Philadelphia is a wonderful city break to turn into a festive USA Christmas trip.

During the holiday season, Philadelphia comes alive with decorations and lights on every street. A Christmas Market springs up in LOVE Park, a wonderful photo spot all year long, as well as on City Hall’s Dilworth Plaza.

There’s a gorgeous Christmas tree in the City Hall courtyard and an ice-skating rink and hot chocolate stand on the plaza.

Another great destination is the ice-skating rink and Christmas vendors around Penn’s Landing. It’s larger and often less crowded than the City Hall festivities.

Another great stop for Christmas fun in Philly is the Macy’s Department Store on Market Street. Inside you’ll find the normal holiday shopping, but on the third floor is Dicken’s Christmas Village.

It’s a self-guided tour of animatronic scenes from Charles Dicken’s classic, A Christmas Carol. There is also a light show and, of course, Santa Claus himself to entertain the whole family.

If you have more time in the city, explore festivities with some  day trips from Philadelphia .

About 30 minutes outside of the city you can visit Longwood Gardens for its seasonal Christmas displays.

Longwood Gardens is a massive botanical gardens complex that celebrates the art of horticulture.

For the Christmas season, they dazzle with lights, poinsettias, and even festive performances.

If you drive about two hours west, you can visit the Sweet Holiday Celebration at Hershey Park.

The beautiful amusement park reopens for Christmas with rides and a beautiful light display.

Whether you’re downtown or just outside of the city, Philadelphia is a festive place to visit for the Christmas season.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

• Morris House Hotel : Located right by Washington Square and a short walk from Independence Hall, Morris House Hotel is both a National Historic Landmark dating to the 18th century and a popular boutique hotel!
• Home2Suites By Hilton : The Home2Suites concept of combining the appeal of a hotel and an Airbnb into one property was excellent (our spacious room had a kitchenette), and the customer service is great.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

One of my favorite Christmas trips in the US is exploring the largest city in Wisconsin: Milwaukee!

Already throughout the year, Milwaukee has plenty of things to offer to its visitors.

From spectacular museums such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley Davidson Museum and great restaurants….there is something to do in Milwaukee for every type of traveler.

During the holiday season the entire city lightens up and it’s just the perfect setting for long walks. 

Some of the  best things to do in Milwaukee during winter include taking a brewery tour, going Christmas shopping in Mayfair Mall, and visiting Milwaukee Winter Farmer’s Market. 

The mission of the Milwaukee Winter Farmers Market is to connect neighborhoods to fresh, local food – from farm to market to table.

The Milwaukee Winter Farmers Market brings together about 50 weekly vendors in the Mitchell Park Domes. The best thing is that you can taste some homemade dishes, too!

If you want to learn more about Milwaukee’s brewing tradition, you might consider doing a brewery tour of some of the best ones.

Milwaukee’s most famous breweries include (but aren’t limited to!), Pabst Brewing Company, Miller Brewing Company, or Sprecher Brewing Company.

It’s a must on any trip to Milwaukee, at Christmas, or any other time of year.

Where to Stay in Milwaukee

• The Plaza Hotel : If you’re looking for a memorable place to stay, this is a great choice for your stay in Milwaukee. The Plaza is conveniently located midway between Lake Michigan and the Downtown Riverwalk, so it’s within walking distance of many of Milwaukee’s top attractions. The rooms also have full-sized kitchens to give you more dining options during your vacation.
• The Pfister Hotel: For stunning old world charm and a Victorian art collection on site this is the hotel to book. The entrance way is spectacular and the charming martini bar on the 23rd floor is historic. Many rooms also have views of Lake Michigan.

Los Angeles

From Jodie of Ala Jode

Combining beaches, city life, and fun for the whole family, Los Angeles is a great place to enjoy a Christmas holiday getaway.

The weather in southern California in December is mild and sunny, making it a great time of year to visit, and LA boasts some of the best weather in the state.

Despite the sunny weather, your trip to LA won’t be lacking any festive spirit.

The city knows how to do Christmas in style (what else would you expect from the home of Hollywood?), and puts on a real show. 

As well as the Christmas spectaculars put on by local theme parks, LA has a number of Christmassy events to enjoy.

Little ones will love riding the Holiday Light Festival Train in Griffith Park, while all ages can enjoy the Christmas lights that stretch from Beverly Hills to West Hollywood.  

For foodies, you can also enjoy one of the many Christmas Eve menus available around the city.

If you’re traveling to Los Angeles as a group, the annual Christmas pub crawl is a must!

It’s completely free to join and will take you to some of the best restaurants and bars along Long Beach – just make sure you bring your ID (and your Santa costume!).

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

• Hotel Erwin: With views over the Pacific Ocean and Venice Beach Boardwalk, you will be hard pushed to find a hotel with more iconic views. Rooms are stylish and comfortable and most have balconies to take in the views. You can also lounge in the rooftop bar for a dreamy LA afternoon.
• Palihotel Melrose: For something a little more city based this beautiful hotel in Hollywood spares no expense in charming details, homey comforts and stunning decor. The location is also excellent in the heart of the Melrose Shopping District.

Detroit, Michigan

From Chelsea of The Portable Wife

Detroit may not be at the top of everyone’s travel bucket list, but it’s a truly magical city to visit at Christmastime.

Between the vibrant downtown events, enchanting historic village, and a high chance of snow, you won’t regret a Christmas trip to the Motor City.

Downtown Detroit has undergone a large-scale revitalization in the past decade, with the Campus Martius area getting a major makeover.

This award-winning urban park transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with open-air ice skating, artisan craft stalls, and a towering Christmas tree.

The surrounding streets are also lined with twinkling lights and illuminated branches, making a simple evening stroll into a festive experience.

Just outside the city center lies Greenfield Village, the famous living history museum depicting how Americans have lived and worked since the late 1700s.

While nearly two million tourists come here every year to see historical places like Henry Ford’s home and the Wright Brothers’ bicycle shop, the Holiday Nights event draws in the Christmas crowd.

Every weekend in December, Greenfield Village dials the holiday magic up to 11.

Visitors can step back in time as they ride in decorated Model T cars, pass by carolers dressed in historical outfits, and skate beneath the stars.

All of the historic buildings are decked out in garland and lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts wafts through the air.

It’s one of the closest places you can get to a European winter break   without leaving the country!

San Antonio, Texas

From Ketki of Dotted Globe

San Antonio , located in southern Texas, is famous for its rich history and Spanish colonial heritage.

It is home to many Spanish frontier missions including the famous Alamo, the beautifully landscaped Riverwalk, and many famous museums.

The city has amazing markets including the Farmer’s Market in Pearl District and the Historic Market Square which has a variety of Hispanic goods.

San Antonio is also a great destination for a family vacation, featuring much-loved spots like Six Flags: Fiesta Texas and the San Antonio Zoo.

While San Antonio is a year-round destination, it is especially lovely to visit San Antonio in winter , when the Riverwalk trees and bridges are decorated with a million lights.

There is nothing more romantic than taking a stroll along the Riverwalk during this wonderful time of the year.

The Riverwalk restaurants have music and great Mexican food while the neon-lit riverboats add to the ambiance.

Christmas magic is present all over the city and even the horse carriages near the Alamo are decorated with fairy lights.   

Don’t miss the many holiday lights at the UNESCO-listed San Antonio Missions or 18th-century San Fernando Church, either.

Leavenworth, Washington

From Marissa of Postcards to Seattle

When you’re looking for a getaway around the holidays, head right to Washington State’s small town of Leavenworth.

Located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, you’ll feel like you’ve gone to Germany with the Bavarian theme here.

All the storefronts have a European feel to them, and you’ll be delighted to find multiple sausage stands and beer gardens.

Christmas is the best time to visit Leavenworth , as the entire town is decorated in lights.

You can find traditional German music and Christmas carols playing with musicians dressed in Lederhosen during the weekends.

Mulled wine and spiced nuts are also sold this time of year for a special treat that makes you feel like you’re visiting traditional German Christmas markets.

Kids will love sledding down the hill in the middle of town during the day.

You can also visit the Gingerbread Factory and the Nutcracker Museum to take home a few souvenirs.

Speaking of nutcrackers, the whole family can go on a nutcracker hunt during this time of year to find a list of nutcrackers hiding around the museum.

You won’t want to miss out on visiting Leavenworth in the winter .

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

From Darcy of Plan, Ready, Go

Christmas is a great time to visit Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia.

Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum, and they pull out all the stops at Christmas.

Not only is the entire historic center of the town beautifully decorated for the holidays, but there are also many special Christmas events to choose from to fill out your Colonial Williamsburg itinerary .

Colonial Williamsburg Christmas events include the Grand Illumination held on the first Sunday of each December in addition to a host of special concerts, historical re-enactments, dramatic presentations, special guided tours, and more.

Many of the special events are free though there are some that require the purchase of additional tickets.

Detailed information about each event is always available on the Colonial Williamsburg website , or you can stop by the Visitor’s Center for a complete schedule of each day’s events and activities.  

Although the hours are limited, the historic center of the town is open on Christmas Day.

There are a wide variety of special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meal options hosted at the Colonial Williamsburg resorts and historic taverns such as the Christmas Day brunch buffet at the Williamsburg Lodge.

Helen, Georgia

Situated in Georgia’s idyllic Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen, Georgia offers a taste of Bavaria in the heart of the American South!

Featuring Alpine architecture and an outsized list of things to do ranging from browsing the boutiques and shops along Main Street to hiking along the Chattahoochee River, Helen makes for a quirky, charming, and unforgettable Christmas holiday destination.

It has even been used as a filming location in a few Lifetime Christmas movies (and likely in more to come)!

Dreaming of visiting German Christmas markets but not able to make it across the pond this year?

Head to Helen, where 2 weekends feature a traditional German Christmas market, perfect for doing your shopping and eating plenty of treats.

And, while the weather will be cold enough that it will feel like Christmas, you won’t need more than a warm coat to comfortably visit outdoor attractions like Anna Ruby Falls.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

From Tori of Tori-Leigh.com

A little over an hour away from both New York City and Philadelphia , Bethlehem sits in Pennsylvania’s gorgeous Lehigh Valley.

Affectionately known as Christmas City, Bethlehem is an absolute must for anyone looking for a Christmas-inspired trip in America.

Take a day trip or spend the weekend and enjoy Christmas markets, holiday shopping, festive treats, drinks, decor, and more.

There is no shortage of magic and festivities when visiting Bethlehem, Pennsylvania during the Christmas holiday season.

Though small, downtown Bethlehem truly captures the magic of Christmas.

Visitors can peruse Christmas City Village, an outdoor market with handmade goods and European-inspired fare.

Stroll the city’s cobblestone streets or take a narrated carriage ride through the historic city, tree displays, and twinkling lights.

Don’t skip the iconic Moravian Bookstore, the oldest continually operated bookstore in the country.

Pay a visit to (or even spend the night at) Historic Hotel Bethlehem , which displays over 35,000 lights and decorations during the holidays.

A short way from downtown, tourists and locals alike flock to Christkindlmarkt, a German-inspired Christmas market set behind the famous Bethlehem SteelStacks.

Listen to live Christmas music, enjoy demonstrations such as glass-blowing, or finish up holiday shopping.

Look no further than Bethlehem, PA, America’s very own Christmas City, for a charming holiday getaway.

Asheville, North Carolina

From Stephanie of Explore More Clean Less

Asheville, North Carolina is a quiet, quirky city with stunning mountain views and wonderful Christmas events!

Weather is typically mild and snow is rare, making it a nice escape from northern winds.

The city’s main tourist attraction, the Biltmore Estate , goes all out with a replica gingerbread house and more than 55 decorated trees throughout the house and grounds.

There are special tickets for candlelight tours with live choral singers but visiting during the day is special too!

The North Carolina Arboretum puts up a huge winter lights display that makes for a lovely night (but buy tickets early!) drinking hot cocoa.

Strolling through the garden is extra special when it’s decorated with over half a million twinkling lights in different, creative displays.

Kids will love the festive model train and free crafts to make while watching the animatronic winter animal show!

Downtown Asheville puts up lots of lights while musicians play holiday music on the street, perfect for dinner and a stroll before you check out the famous National Gingerbread House Competition at the historic Omni Grove Park Inn !

Browse the content entries from young kids up through professional adults after you grab some cookies from the life-size gingerbread house concession stand.

The mild weather won’t keep you from hiking to see waterfalls or mountain views, so be sure to pack a hat and make time to take an  easy hike around Asheville  before you head home.

Or, if you want to see if you get lucky and are able to see some snow, consider extending your trip and heading up to one of North Carolina’s mountain towns that sits at a higher altitude.

The Rocky Mountains, Colorado

From Meg of Fox in the Forrest

When it comes to beautiful mountain scenery, it doesn’t get much better than the Colorado Rockies.

Of course, you can find world-class skiing and snowboarding at one of Colorado’s many ski resort towns.

However, there are lots of other activities to enjoy when you need a break from the slopes.

Enjoy one of the many beautiful Colorado winter hikes , take a dip in a famous hot spring, visit one of the state’s 4 national parks, or take a snowmobiling tour.

There are lots of different mountain towns that make the perfect place to spend Christmas in Colorado.

For those that like an upscale feel, check out Vail or Aspen.

There’s plenty of family-friendly fun to be had at Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Keystone Resort, and Steamboat Springs.

Those that want plenty of options simply must base themselves out of Frisco or Dillion where you can access Loveland Ski Area, Arapaho Basin, Keystone, Breckenridge, and more.

There’s no wrong answer when it comes to spending Christmas in Colorado.

With so many different places to choose from, you’ll find plenty of winter-filled adventures that are suitable for almost any budget.

If you love having a white Christmas and you’re looking for an iconic mountain landscape, look no further than the Colorado Rockies.

Yosemite National Park, California

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If you’re looking for a natural winter wonderland, Yosemite National Park is an absolutely magical place to visit during Christmas time.

Most people think of Yosemite as a summer destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to take in the awe-inspiring views of giant granite walls and hike the best trails in Yosemite .

However, a little-known secret about Yosemite is that it becomes uniquely breathtaking in the wintertime.

Seeing the iconic monoliths of Half Dome and El Cap dusted with snow is a very special experience.

Also, winter in Yosemite features fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, as everyone gets into the holiday spirit.

If you visit Yosemite for Christmas, you’ll have lots of fun winter adventure options to choose from, from snowshoeing to ice skating to skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area.

Plus, the Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and Big Trees Lodge all celebrate the season with Christmas festivities and grand holiday dinners.

Grab your winter gear and head to Yosemite National Park for a magical and merry Christmas experience you’ll never forget!

Whitefish, Montana

From Jenn and Ed of Coleman Concierge

Everybody dreams of a classic White Christmas in the US.

It brings back memories of a simpler time when people still carol in the streets, and miracles wait around every corner.

That spirit of Christmas past is alive and well in Whitefish, Montana.

The Whitefish Christmas season officially begins on the first Friday in December with the Whitefish Christmas Stroll.

Carolers are singing, bells are ringing, and chestnuts are roasting on open fires.

What’s more, snow is already falling on the slopes of Big Mountain, which are visible from the decorated streets of the quaint, historic downtown.

It’s a white Christmas, “just like the ones you used to know”.

The freshly fallen Christmas snow is perfect for Whitefish’s primary winter passion, skiing.

Big Mountain is perhaps the best place to learn to ski in America.

Besides having the perfect skiing snow from the moist Pacific air hitting the Rocky Mountains, Big Mountain also has an incredible learn-to-ski package where you get two half-days of skiing, including lessons and rentals for under $100.

There are many   things to do in Whitefish for every season , but Christmas is special. 

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

From Sarah of Lets Grow Cook

The Wyoming town of Jackson is a simply awesome place to spend Christmas.  

Not only do you have 3 ski areas on your doorstep (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort, and Grand Targhee Resort), but the scenery, in general, is quite simply stunning.

To the north of the town are the jagged peaks of the Grand Teton National Park, and Yellowstone National Park is also close by.  

At Christmas, Jackson’s town square, quite normally adorned with shed elk antlers has them lit up for the festive season.  

Those elk antlers have been shed by elks overwintering at the nearby National Elk Refuge, which makes a magical place to take a horse-drawn sleigh ride to see these magnificent creatures up close.   

Even Santa makes an appearance in the town square every day from December 15 th  until Christmas Eve when he becomes otherwise occupied!

Before Santa leaves, though, he does begin his journey by rappelling out of the Jackson Hole aerial tramway at 4:30 P.M. on Christmas Eve – another great reason to spend Christmas in Jackson!

The downhill skiing and snow sports here are simply beyond compare, but if it’s a more gentle exercise you want, then taking a snowshoe tour through the National Park with the Park Rangers is a simply superb experience and an unforgettable addition to a Christmas holiday vacation!

Colorado Springs, Colorado

From Oksana and Max of Drink Tea & Travel

If you want to combine holiday cheer with outdoor adventures, Colorado Springs is a great destination, where you’ll find a city alive with holiday spirit.

The outdoor skating rink is a big hit and people come from miles around to attend the annual Festival of Lights .

If you happen to miss the Festival of Lights, you’ll still have a chance to check out some beautiful displays at the Cheyenne Zoo or the Broadmoor Hotel. 

Just outside the city is Pikes Peak, one of the highest mountains in the area and a great place to explore year-round.

However, Pikes Peak’s Cog Train takes on another dimension during the holiday season.

If you chose the Santa Train you’ll be accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their elves for the ride. It’s a great activity for the little ones.

The Garden of the Gods is another famous Colorado Springs attraction.

It is a great place to go for a hike if you would rather bliss out in nature for a few hours.

However, don’t miss stopping by the Garden of the Gods Trading Post during the Christmas season.

It has become an iconic holiday shopping destination for the area and a must-see when visiting Colorado Springs in December!

Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

From Anna of My Travel Scrapbook

Monument Valley might seem like an odd place to go for Christmas cheer in the USA!

Monument Valley is known for its iconic desert landscape of orange buttes where cowboys roam.

Yet for a few months of the year, Monument Valley is sometimes covered in a light layer of snow.

What an unusual place to celebrate Christmas cheer by seeing such an iconic US sight in the snow!

Monument Valley is located in Navajo Nation which straddles Utah and Arizona, and is prominently featured on many American Southwest road trip itineraries !

There are many things to do and see in Monument Valley. You can visit famous movie spots such as Forrest Gump point and John Wayne point, eat local Navajo dishes, hike around the beautiful mesas and discover Navajo petroglyphs.

In winter, you will want to bundle up on the   hikes in Monument Valley  as it can get quite cold up on the plateau!

To warm up after your Christmas visit to Monument Valley consider staying at the Desert Rose Resort in nearby Bluff, Utah.

They have an amazing pool meaning you can enjoy the winter landscape from the warmth of the swimming pool!

As it is low season, you will also avoid the summer crowds and have an amazing time at Monument Valley in winter!

Key West, Florida

From Pauline of Beeloved City

Key West is particularly famous for being the most southern point in the continental USA.

Part of the Florida Keys , it’s one of the best places to go for the perfect Christmas vacation. 

With an average temperature of 67°F, December is one of the best times of the year to go to Key West and Florida in general.

The weather is dry and warm, making it the perfect sunny escape in the United States! 

Key West is surrounded by coral reefs. It’s the ideal place to go on a diving or snorkeling trip.

If you want to explore the mangroves and maybe see some manatees, another option is to go paddleboarding or kayaking!

After that, you can head to the Southernmost Point Buoy, it’s a very nice photo spot! 

Key West is also home to The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum which was the official residence of the famous author.

If you are looking for shops and bars, bustling Duval Street will be the place for you!

There is live music everywhere, it’s a very nice place to relax and enjoy a drink. 

In the evening, head to Mallory Square for the sunset celebration. You will get to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!

Galveston, Texas

From Patricia of Travel Fam Live

Galveston can be a great escape around the holidays, Christmas in particular.

This barrier island is located about 50 miles from Houston and it’ll offer an array of activities in a warm environment perfect for enjoying a laid-back Christmas on the beach in the United States.

With the festivities starting at the beginning of November, there is always something to see or do around the Island.

Founded in the early 1800s, Galveston has so much history and historical sites that would enhance anyone’s Christmas.

Around Thanksgiving weekend, all the City’s Christmas trees are lighted and Galveston becomes a magical place.

And the best part is that if you are lucky, you might be able to enjoy the beach even in December. 

The East End Victorian Homes Tour takes place at Christmas and is a tour of some of the luxurious homes built by the first European settlers to come to Galveston (check the calendar for this year’s date and time).  

Dickens on the Strand is a well-known festival organized by the Galveston Historical Foundation that brings you back to the Charles Dickens era.

There is a parade, costume contest and a ball to celebrate the event, complete with attendees dressed in Victorian fashion as they stroll up and down the Stand.

Dickens on the Strand has been happening for almost 50 years on the first weekend of December.

Other Galveston holiday events include the Moody Gardens Festival of Lights, A Lone Star Christmas, Ice Land at Moody Gardens, and many others. 

Plus, most of the typical things to do in Galveston are still doable in December, too!

Oahu, Hawaii

From Anne of Travellers Archive

Spending a couple of days in Oahu, Hawai’i , will quickly let you fall in love with the island, its vibe, and its uniqueness.

The best thing to do on Oahu is to leave Honolulu behind and head up North along the North Shore, which is one of the most famous surf areas in the world.

It’s not only the place where surfing was actually born but also an area where huge waves roll in and international pro surfers would quickly take their board for a ride in their “living room”.

The best way to experience the North Shore is by car during a very easy and chilled day trip. 

From here follow the Kamehameha Highway and make your way up to the old surfing village of Haleiwa, where you’ll find little shops and an amazing lunch spot – Haleiwa’s Joe.

Once filled up with fresh fish burgers follow up North and enjoy the constant views of the coastal landscape with amazing surf spots passing by, such as Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, and Banzai Pipeline.

Usually, when the swell is up, you can simply stop on the side of the road and join hundreds of other visitors watching the pros take their waves.

This will quickly turn into an unforgettable Christmas experience.

Destin, Florida

From Disha of Disha Discovers

Some people enjoy staying home for Christmas. Others like to get away and have a vacation.

If you fall into the latter category, Destin, Florida is a great place to escape for a warm USA Christmas on the beach.

Destin truly feels like one of those picturesque towns you see in a Hallmark Christmas movie.

While others are dealing with cold weather, you’ll be hanging out on the beach in a t-shirt and a light jacket.

If you’re worried about not having a white Christmas, don’t worry too much. The gorgeous white sand on the beaches is just as white as snow.

Also, Destin offers several Christmas activities throughout the month of December with everything from tree lightings to parades.

Aside from Christmas activities, there are plenty of other great things to do in Destin.

The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is filled with restaurants and shops. It’s fun to walk around and sample fresh seafood from all of the eateries.

Another memorable thing to do in Destin is to take a sunset dolphin cruise. It’s a magical experience, especially at sunset.

The best part about spending Christmas in Destin is that there won’t be very many tourists around.

By then, peak season has died down and you can enjoy everything Destin has to offer without tons of people around.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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51 Best Places to Visit During Christmas in The USA

By: Author Claire Allard

Posted on Published: November 3, 2022  - Last updated: May 30, 2023

The best time to travel is during the festive weeks of December.

And the USA is the perfect place to go.

There are many places to celebrate Christmas, whether you want a white one or a sunny holiday. 

They range from romantic vacation spots for couples to fun, family-friendly destinations for kids.

Every destination makes your vacation feel extra merry and bright.

All the stores hang their decors, trees are perfectly trimmed, and parks even turn into makeshift ice skating rinks. 

As a seasoned writer, I travel to the USA yearly to visit Christmas destinations.

And I know how overwhelming it can get during the holidays.

So, I’ve curated a list of places to visit during these times.

I’ve also ranked them based on family-friendliness, festive atmosphere, attractions, affordability, accessibility, and accommodation options. 

Now, the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA are in the palm of your hand with this list.

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Best Places To Visit During Christmas In The USA Compared

People can’t get enough of the beautiful places in the USA. Here’s a quick guide to the ones you should visit during Christmas: 

Editor’s Choice

The Sherry Netherland

If you want a view of New York City, stay at The Sherry Netherland. 

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Festive Atmosphere: 5/5
• Attractions: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge

Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge is ideal for a quiet and relaxing Christmas.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Festive Atmosphere: 4/5
• Attractions: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach is a luxurious beach resort perfect for a sunny Christmas.

• Accommodation Options: 4/5

Here are the top 51 Christmas destinations in the USA.

1. The Sherry Netherland (Editor’s Choice)

781 5th Ave New York, NY 10022 (212) 355-2800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• High-quality amenities
• Convenient location
• Limited activities on-site

It’s a historic hotel built in 1927.

It’s one of the top boutique hotels in the city to stay at if you’re traveling with kids.

The upscale lodging and the five-star service make the holidays extra special in New York.

The Sherry Netherland is in the middle of everything, so going around the city will be easy.

Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue shopping are both nearby.

Visit the Rockefeller Center with your family during Christmas. 

A giant Christmas Tree will be lit from 5 AM to 12 AM.

On Christmas Day, the lights are on for 24 hours.

2. Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge

2929 Green Mountain Dr Branson, MO 65616 (417) 348-3100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Comfortable accommodations
• Activities for families on-site
• Difficult to locate

There are many family-friendly amenities available in the resort’s villas.

All the rooms are clean, and the amenities are always up-to-date.

So, spend some time relaxing by the indoor and outdoor pools after a full day in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

And visit the activity area with your family to play a few sports. 

Teens even have a den, and a playroom is allotted for young children.

Hang out by the campfire and make s’mores with your family.

For sure, that’ll be an experience they’ll never forget.

3.  Montage Laguna Beach

30801 Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (866-271-6953 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Ocean facing pool
• Exclusive access to a wide selection of amenities
• Lack of security

It’s the ideal place to soak up the sun.

Its best features include an ocean-facing pool and a sun terrace.

All rooms even have a deep marble soaking tub.

And three restaurants are already available on-site.

There’s no need to travel elsewhere during the holidays once you stay here. 

On the premises, you’ll find poolside cabanas, boutique shops, and art galleries.

Plus, you can enjoy the holiday season with their seasonal vacation packages and events.

Wake up early and watch as the sun rises by the beach.

Christmas means you’ll witness the gorgeous sunrise and sunset skies.

4. Enzian Inn

590 US Hwy 2 Leavenworth, WA 98826 (800) 223-8511 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enzian Inn is an excellent alternative to Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge and Montage Laguna Beach.

You’ll be transported to the Alps during the holidays when you’re just in Washington.

At Enzian Inn, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent mountains, rich green forests, and fresh, clear skies.

There’s an indoor and outdoor pool available on-site.

Other amenities include ping-pong tables, a racquetball or basketball court, and a complimentary round of golf.

Moreover, it’s just a 5-minute walk from the city center of Leavenworth.

Play mini golf with your kids at Enzian Inn.

There’s an 18-hole mini golf course available on the premises.

5. Newport Beach, California

Newport Beach, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Planning on spending the holidays in California but don’t know where to go for Christmas vacation?

Then, put Newport Beach at the top of your list of best places to visit at Christmas.

Every December, the city beckons travelers with its famed Christmas Boat Parade.

Drop by the bay, and witness a parade of boats embellished with Christmas decor.

And it lifts everyone’s spirits with awe-inspiring fireworks and other fun-filled activities.

After catching the parade, explore Balboa Island and be mesmerized by its finely decorated houses.

Shopaholics will find their bliss at Fashion Island.

Here, visitors may explore more than 150 boutiques, restaurants, and beauty spas.

Of course, you can snag a variety of Christmas gifts at this shopping haven.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Balboa Bay Resort

6. Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, MT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas?

Why not spend your holidays in this cozy mountain town in Montana?

With cheery decorations and tons of snow, the Christmas spirit is so alive in Whitefish.

The town’s holiday celebrations start early too, with the popular Whitefish Christmas Stroll kicking off on December’s first Friday.

White Mountain Resort is the best place to celebrate Christmas in this quaint town.

The resort, on Christmas Eve, hosts a torchlight parade filled with merry activities.

It includes Santa Claus meet and greets and loads of sparkling torchlights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort

7. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, IL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Chicago surely knows how to celebrate the holidays, featuring a lineup of exciting events.

The Christmas season in Windy City starts before Thanksgiving day with a light festival showcasing musical performances and parades.

And every venue and restaurant in this city has something on its sleeve to enchant its guests.

On top of it all, it’s packed with Christmas attractions, including Millennium Park’s ice skating rink and Navy Pier’s Wonderfest.

Pack a pair of gloves, sweaters, and warm jackets for this Christmas getaway since the city is rather cold and gets a ton of snow.

And, while in Chicago, stroll Michigan Avenue at night and be captivated by the street performers and lighted garlands.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago

8. Park City, Utah

Park City, UT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s no shortage of enjoyable and lighthearted family-oriented activities in Park City in December.

Stroll down the city’s historic streets, and you’ll catch a multitude of lively events and wonderful Christmas lights.

Even better, the city offers world-class skiing and scores of snow.

Perfect for all types of winter family vacations .

Plan a visit to Park City Resort on your trip to this mountain.

The resort offers a variety of entertaining holiday-themed surprises and activities daily from mid-December to early January.

Our favorite Yuletide activities from the resort include fireworks and the torchlight parade.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Park City Peaks

Related: Best Ski Resorts in Utah

Related: Best Ski Resorts for Families

9. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, WI Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Don’t let the chilly weather stop you from visiting this Midwestern city in December.

With European-style markets and holiday festivities, Milwaukee is a hotspot for Christmas and winter fun.

Bring warm layers for your trip to Milwaukee in December.

I suggest that you pack fleece layers, comfy, waterproof shoes, a thick winter coat, a windbreaker, and thermal undergarments.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Pfister Hotel

Related: Best Midwest Ski Resorts

10. Key West, Florida

Key West, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Want to try something different for this Christmas season?

Forget winter wonderlands.

Spend your holiday season in Key West, where the daytime temperatures average around 76 degrees in December.

You can spend your Christmas break in Key West, diving, snorkeling, and swimming in its crystal clear waters.

Surprisingly, you’ll still feel the Yuletide spirit in Key West, with bright lights and decorated palm trees.

You’ve got to experience the Lighted Boat Parade.

Held annually at Schooner Wharf Bar and Galley, it’s a jovial event with magnificent boats and kid-approved festivities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

11. Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, VA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s a lot to love about Williamsburg.

For decades, this city has been known for its historic representations, excellent attention to detail, and ability to make things fun.

And the holiday festivities are no different.

In December, the city becomes a holiday paradise with its Christmas reenactments, parades, and special performances.

The city overflows with holiday concerts too, at this joyous time of the year.

Be captivated by festive fireworks, heart-warming shows, and world-class ice skaters at Busch Gardens Christmas Town.

You can wander around this area and relish the sights of more than 10 million lights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection

Related: Dining in Williamsburg

12. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, WA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Leavenworth is an attractive destination at any time of the year.

But this mountain town becomes so picture-perfect and magical at Christmas that you’ll feel like you’re in a snow globe.

With its Bavarian-style buildings, snow, and holiday lights, it looks like the North Pole or a Christmas movie set.

And it’s the epitome of a white Christmas with its sleigh rides, a reindeer farm, and a nutcracker museum.

Love holiday lights?

Experience one of the town’s lighting ceremonies every Sunday and Saturday in the first three weeks of December.

You can also listen to the choir singing carols and enjoy a cup of hot gluhwein while watching the sparkling lights come alive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: PostHotel Leavenworth

13. Washington DC

Washington DC, Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s more to the nation’s capital than its iconic museums and monuments.

In winter, the city lures families and travelers with its mind-blowing performances and over-the-top decorations.

Not to mention, it displays a slew of majestic holiday trees, including the National Christmas Tree.

Take a short trip to Mount Vernon, and tour George Washington’s estate by candlelight.

Led by costumed guides, this tour lets you discover how Christmas was celebrated in the 18th century.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Riggs Washington DC

14. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City, OK Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

OKC’s Downtown in December is an astonishing series of Yuletide attractions and events in the heart of the city.

Entertaining and exciting, this series draws visitors with its parties, shopping, performing arts, snow tubing, and twinkling lights.

There’s also a merry holiday run and complimentary water taxi excursions.

And the best part is most events are free for everyone.

Take a short 40-minute drive to Shannon Springs Park and be mesmerized by its breath-snatching light displays.

In this 43-acre park, you may view more than three million lights, see the 170-foot Christmas tree, and walk across a gorgeous lighted bridge.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Oklahoma City Hotel

15. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, HI Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

December is the start of Oahu’s bustling peak tourist season.

Still, it’s one of the best places to travel during Christmas, especially for those seeking a sunny Yuletide escape.

Along with its warm weather and fantastic whale-watching opportunities, it also has numerous festive Christmas activities.

You can fill your Christmas vacation days in Oahu experiencing lively events, like the Honolulu City Lights and Waikiki Holiday Lights Trolley tour.

If you’re staying in Oahu until New Year, check out Hilton Resort ’s free and spectacular fireworks displays.

Also, book your accommodations months before your vacation to ensure availability.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel

16. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson, WY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jackson Hole is awe-inspiring and exciting throughout the year.

But we love it more in December when the city is awash with Christmas decorations and celebrations.

The historic Town Square is bright and merry at this time of the year, with its twinkling lights.

And, there’s a festive diversion for everybody in winter in Jackson Hole, like Santa Claus sightings and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

For adventure seekers, the town is a premier destination for snowboarding, skiing, and other wintry experiences.

With wind chills and consistent snow, you must pack some winter essentials for your trip to Jackson Hole.

Pack gloves, a waterproof ski jacket, warm base layers, and sturdy boots with first-rate grip for icy terrain and streets.

Sunscreen is also essential to ward off sunburns sneaking up even during cloudy days.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The White Buffalo Club

17. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, MA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Boston has everything you need to make your Christmas vacation unforgettable.

You can experience its lovely winter markets, catch the holiday shows, and marvel at the snowy landscapes.

Visitors and residents have access to numerous activities, including ice skiing or skating at City Hall Plaza and Holiday Cruises.

A favorite holiday spot in Boston is Quincy Market, praised for its live music and massive trees garnished with Yuletide lights.

Since it’s rather cold in Boston in December, you should bring gloves, durable boots, coats, and sweaters on your holiday getaway.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Newbury Boston

18. San Antonio, Texas

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Everything is big in Texas, and San Antonio’s holiday festivities and events are no exception.

The holiday-themed events and Christmas-inspired dishes during this season are enormous in San Antonio.

And, Instagram-loving travelers will have a swell time walking the River Walk bridges decorated with a thousand twinkling lights.

With its rich Spanish influences, the city also offers one-of-a-kind holiday events.

You’ll never run out of things to do in San Antonio with kids during Christmas.

Our favorites include the lively holiday train, Seaworld San Antonio, and the festive San Antonio Zoo.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk

19. North Pole, Alaska

North Pole, AK Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s every child’s dream to visit the North Pole and see the legendary Santa Claus.

And you can make that dream a reality with a visit to this quaint and charming Alaskan town.

Once there, you may see the “Santa Clause House” to fulfill your kiddo’s dream.

Afterward, visit Santa Claus Lane, where you can admire the world’s biggest Santa statue and marvel at live reindeer.

Add a dose of adventure to your holiday escape by driving to the nearby Chena Lake Recreation Area.

It offers an assortment of outdoor activities, including ice fishing, skiing, snow-machining, skiing, and snow-machining.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel North Pole

20. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, CO Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In the mood for a wintry outdoor adventure but not sure where to travel for Christmas?

Here’s a piece of advice for you: head to Aspen.

With an acclaimed apres-ski scene and 76 runs, this mountain town is a paradise for skiers and adventure junkies.

Moreover, it’s home to a ton of luxury resorts with luxe spas and cozy fireplaces, making it a solid pick for relaxation-seekers.

Head to its downtown area, and experience the 12 Days of Aspen event.

It’s a lively 12-day annual event featuring cookie decorating competitions, caroling, and free Santa Claus meet and greets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Gant

Related: Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Families

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, LA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

A mecca for entertainment, the Crescent City is known for its energetic and frenzied Mardi Gras.

But, guess what?

New Orleans also knows how to put on an animated and fun holiday celebration.

The city impresses holiday vacationers with its bonfires and flashy light displays.

Furthermore, the city’s signature historic homes, like the Old Ursuline Convent, are decked out in holiday decorations.

Stay near the French Quarter to get easy access to Saint Louis Cathedral’s Christmas concerts.

When in NOLA, stroll the downtown streets and be fascinated by the carolers singing classic holiday medleys.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Maison de la Luz

22. Taos, New Mexico

Taos, NM Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Searching for unique places to spend Christmas?

Trust me, you’ll have a blast exploring this New Mexico ski town in December.

Taos offers an extraordinary spin on Christmas traditions each year, with unique events blending Native and Christianity beliefs.

A highlight here in December is the “Yuletide in Taos”, an annual celebration with festive events, bonfires, and holiday markets.

On Christmas Day, visit the plaza and witness a ceremonial, ancient Native American dance that honors winter.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Monte Sagrado Resort & Spa

23. Branson, Missouri

Branson, MO Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re on the hunt for magical, family-friendly Christmas places to visit, head to Branson.

Every holiday season, this Ozark Mountain destination turns into a winter wonderland.

With a holiday vacation in Branson, you’ll be amazed by its drive-through light displays, ice skating rinks, and more than 1,000 Christmas trees.

You can’t leave Branson without experiencing the award-winning Silver Dollar City Old Time Christmas.

It’s a colorful annual festival with a magical setting that includes 40-holiday productions, a light parade, and over six million twinkling lights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations

24. Jackson, New Hampshire

Jackson, NH Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Resting in the White Mountains, this town has the recipe for a Hallmark-like holiday vacation.

Not only does it boast a cozy winter setting, but it also has enchanting light displays and family-friendly festivities.

The Christmas Farm Inn celebrates the holiday season year-round.

But, in December, the inn goes up a notch with tours featuring luscious chocolates and sleigh rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Christmas Farm Inn and Spa

Related: Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

25. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, OH Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Holiday vacation goers usually come to Cleveland to tour the famed “A Christmas Story” house, which is now a museum.

For big-time fans of the movie, you can spend the night at this museum.

But, “the Forest City” has a lot to offer other than this Christmas-themed attraction.

For a fun day with the family, check out the Christmas activities and festive blooms at the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Experience the city’s Winterfest, and lay eyes on the bright holiday lights throughout Downtown Cleveland.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

26. Andalusia, Alabama

Andalusia, AL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The ultimate Christmas town in Alabama tantalizes families with its ultra-festive Yuletide event: Candyland.

Held throughout December, this winter wonderland offers ice skating, snow tubing, train rides, and play cottages for children.

Santa Claus and other holiday characters will make an appearance near Springdale House on weekends.

For entertainment, go to the Springdale stage, and watch live carols and concerts.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Andalusia, an IHG Hotel

27. Santa Claus, Indiana

Santa Claus, IN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The name says it all.

The most Christmassy town in Indiana welcomes families with an assortment of events for its three-weekend Yuletide celebration.

Known as “America’s Christmas Hometown”, the city comes to life with its drive-through lights exhibit and fireworks displays.

You can’t leave this city without visiting the Santa Claus Museum and Village.

Through its exhibits, this attraction will teach you about the history of this charming town.

And it even lets kiddos write a letter to Santa Claus.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn

28. Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport, ME Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kennebunkport is one of the most spellbinding places to visit near you at Christmas.

Even though it’s well-known for its coastal beauty, this town becomes a holiday hot spot in December.

Holiday visitors may enjoy the Christmas Prelude celebration, an extravagant holiday event that fills the town with the Christmas spirit.

The event includes everything, from Christmas tree lighting to home tours and holiday markets.

Take the Prelude Trolley Ride with the whole family.

For a small fee, this ride will give you a memorable experience and lets you enjoy tasty homemade cookies and hot chocolate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kennebunkport Inn

Related: Best Restaurants in Kennebunkport

29. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, VT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No list of best Christmas vacations in the USA is complete without Stowe.

For years, this four-season destination has been drawing holiday vacationers with its mountain views and slopes.

In addition, this town offers an extensive list of holiday activities, including live Yuletide music, a bazaar, and wagon rides.

In early December, the Spruce Peak Performing Center hosts heart-warming “A Christmas Carol” shows.

The center puts a modern spin on this timeless classic with Latin rhythms and dancing gravediggers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Trapp Family Lodge

Related: Best Vermont Ski Resorts for Families

30. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, AZ Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Although it seems an unusual choice, Vegas is one of America’s best cities to visit at Christmas for families.

Every casino and resort in Sin City offers fabulous Yuletide events, including Mandalay Bay ’s scuba diving.

The entire Vegas Strip also glitters with dazzling decorations and lights at this time of the year.

You don’t need to pack a thick winter jacket on your Christmas vacation to Las Vegas.

Nevertheless, we recommend bringing a light sweater to beat the city’s cold December evenings.

Also, bring light and comfortable clothes, as it’s a little warm during the day, with temperatures reaching 70 degrees.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mandalay Bay

31. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, TN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Think Nashville is just for country, rock n’ roll, and folk music enthusiasts?

Visit Nashville in December, and you’ll uncover a dynamic holiday-loving city full of Christmas activities.

From Christmas villages to irresistible holiday lights, the city offers a plethora of incredible diversions in December.

The Gaylord Opryland is large enough to be a town and has tons of lights to light up a city.

And it’s packed with activities to appease everyone, including ice bumper cars, ice tubing, and ice skating, so it’s one of our favorite places to visit for Christmas.

For moms, spend time exploring over nine acres of entertainment, shopping, dining, spas, and indoor gardens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

32. Bowling Green, Kentucky

Bowling Green, KY Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Who says you can’t have an Arctic-like experience in the heart of Kentucky?

With a pit stop at Bowling Green’s Reindeer Farm, you’ll have a taste of the Arctic without spending a fortune on flights.

As you visit this farm, you’ll have ample opportunities to write a letter to Santa, drink cocoa, watch Xmas movies, and feed reindeer.

Of course, the city has a host of other entertaining Christmassy spots, such as The Club at Olde Stone and Twinkle at the Track.

We can’t get enough of the SoKY Market Ice Rink.

It’s an affordable and kid-approved ice skating rink where you can skate with holiday characters like the Grinch and Santa Claus.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Bowling Green

33. Fayetteville, Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fayetteville has three features that guarantee a rocking holiday vacation: scores of exquisite lights, fabulous shopping, and yummy food.

Plus, its town square has the perfect backdrop for a Hallmark holiday movie in Arkansas.

Couples seeking a romantic experience may take a helicopter tour above the lights or ride a horse-drawn carriage.

Families, meanwhile, may reconnect at the square as they search for Santa’s lost reindeer.

After a day of sightseeing in Fayetteville, make your way to Sassy’s and fill your grumbling stomach with their barbecue.

Suited for families, their barbecue goodies are budget-friendly, juicy, and hearty.

For those in need of caffeine, Onyx Coffee Lab is your best bet.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Fayetteville

34. Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, CT Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Everyone knows Mystic is one of Connecticut’s favorite summer towns.

But did you know that it’s an appealing holiday destination as well?

Well, who doesn’t love to spend the Christmas season by the sea?

And this alluring seaside town comes to life in December when it’s garnished with festive decorations.

Held annually, the town’s illuminated boat parade is a can’t-miss event and looks like a scene from a Christmas movie.

Likewise, the shops and stalls in Olde Mistick Village burst with charm and seasonal cheer in December.

Stroll along Olde Mistick Village’s walkway, and feast your eyes on more than 5,000 whimsical lights.

And you can accompany this unique experience by listening to the live bands and enjoying hot beverages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic

35. New Castle, Delaware

New Castle, DE Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Escape the crowds in big cities, and spend a cozy, soothing, and satisfying holiday vacation in New Castle.

Though underrated, this town is filled with holiday charm, thanks to the historical society’s undying efforts to preserve colonial traditions.

Every year, the town hosts Spirit of Christmas, an enticing event with plenty of opportunities for Yuletide old-fashioned fun.

You can enjoy the tree lighting ceremonies, caroling, and historic house tours.

And most of these diversions are open for everyone for free.

Mid-December is the most exciting time to visit the town.

At this time of the year, the town’s streets are full of costumed characters walking around entertaining out-of-towners.

There are exciting events during these times as well, including the annual Fezziwig’s Ball.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Castle

36. Wyoming, Iowa

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Despite its small population and size, Wyoming still deserves a spot on our roundup of the top holiday destinations in America.

Iowa’s bewitching Christmas City is famous for its dramatic canopy of Yuletide lights spanning four blocks along its Main Street.

As a bonus, there are about 38 lighted holiday trees tied to several light poles lining the streets.

Hit the road, and drive for about 50 minutes to Cedar Rapids.

The second-largest city in Iowa has more restaurants and accommodation options than Wyoming.

There are also cheerful Christmas events in this city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cobblestone Inn & Suites – Monticello

37. Baldwin City, Kansas

Baldwin City, KS Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Families will have countless sweet memories after a holiday trip to Baldwin City.

Besides its dazzling lights and decor, the city also is home to the Snowglobe Express.

Billing itself as the world’s merriest train, this 12-mile ride takes you to Snowglobe from the Baldwin City Train Depot.

Upon arrival, you may check out Santa’s fabulous herd of Reindeer.

Moms and dads can join the quirky and fun sweater run in early December.

Smorseville, a life-size Christmas village, is worth a visit too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lawrence, KS

38. Detroit, Michigan

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All roads in Michigan lead to Detroit during the joyful season.

Midtown Detroit, every December, opens up the doors to its cultural institutions for anyone who wants a free peek.

Even better, the city offers family craft activities, holiday shopping, horse-drawn carriage rides, and carolers.

And best of all, the city showcases performances from over 200 area dance, theater, and music groups.

So if you’re interested in winter getaways in Michigan , Detroit is the place to be.

The Detroit Metropolitan Airport gets extremely busy during the Christmas season.

To steer clear of crowds, fly to the nearby Bishop International Airport in Flint.

We also recommend downloading a travel-related app that lets you track flight details in real-time on an Android or iPhone.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: MGM Grand Detroit

39. Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, MI Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Natchez isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind when you think of the best places to spend Christmas in the USA.

After all, it’s a picturesque town famous for its eye-catching antebellum mansions and historic attractions.

But, amazingly, Natchez knows how to celebrate the Yuletide season in a big way with its convivial events and activities.

After Thanksgiving Day, the city begins its holiday festivity with its month-long event featuring kiddie rides, food trucks, and choral music.

The event also includes glittering lights and a gigantic Christmas tree on the city’s Main Street.

Take a self-guided tour of the filming locations of “Every Time a Bell Rings”, a popular Christmas motion picture filmed in the city.

While there, check out The Towers Mansion, which offers one-of-a-kind Christmas exhibits.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magnolia Bluffs Hotel, BW Premier Collection

40. Minden, Nebraska

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Nebraska’s Christmas City is the state’s twinkliest town in winter.

With magical celebrations and holiday decorations, Minden will make your holidays for Christmas bright and merry.

From the day after Thanksgiving to Christmas, the city is busy hosting fun, family-friendly activities, like a craft fair, art shows, and ice skating.

Look for bake sales and concerts at schools and churches for more intimate local experiences.

Also, experience the downtown square’s acclaimed pageant in December.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Kearney, an IHG Hotel

41. Garrison, North Dakota

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Nicknamed “the Christmas Capital of North Dakota”, this town takes the “A Christmas Carol” story to a new level.

From Thanksgiving to early December, the town is loaded with themed attractions inspired by this classic book every weekend.

They call this festivity the Dicken Village Festival, and it has been hosted by the town for over 20 years.

The festival features tree decorating contests, craft shows, carriage rides, vendors, and special items.

Join the town’s renowned fruitcake-throwing competition.

It’s fun and open for everyone in separate divisions and age groups.

There are prizes, so begin practicing your toss.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Extended Stay Americas Suites – Minot

42. Providence, Rhode Island

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For some holiday cheer in Rhode Island, enjoy a holiday trip to Providence.

You can indulge in the timeless New England Christmas traditions and sophisticated shopping, culinary, and arts scene.

There are also neighborhood Yuletide markets and theaters that provide festive shows in Providence.

Stay at a traditional bed-and-breakfast on your holiday trip to Providence.

These options are cheaper than brand-backed hotels and are charming since they occupy late 19th-century mansions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Providence

Related: Best Ski Resorts in New England

43. Pierre, South Dakota

Pierre, SD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

There’s no better place to spend the holidays in South Dakota than its state capital.

Thanks to its friendly business owners and residents, the state capital lights up each year with its colorful bulbs and outstanding displays.

And the city hosts a series of festivities to commemorate the holidays, including the Pierre Parade of Lights and special shopping events.

Visit the city’s Capitol building anytime from late November to early January.

There’s an enchanting Christmas tree and about 100 stunning decorated trees within the vicinity.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: My Place Hotel-Fort Pierre, SD

44. Shepherdstown, West Virginia

Shepherdstown, WV Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Christmas in Shepherdstown begins after Thanksgiving with Santa’s arrival and a flashy parade.

Then, the fun continues until Christmas day with its horse-drawn carriage rides, nativity scenes, and roasted chestnuts.

On top of it all, the town exudes a Hallmark-movie-worthy atmosphere.

The mountain town provides childcare for parents who want to shop at local shops.

So, take advantage of this service, and shop for gifts for the little ones without them getting a sneak peek.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Clarion Inn Conference Center Harpers Ferry

45. Ashland, Oregon

Ashland, OR Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ashland loves to celebrate the holiday season in a big and spectacular way.

In fact, the city shifts gears and gets into the festive spirit as early as November.

Expect a range of Christmas-themed events and attractions during this season.

Our favorite Yuletide events in Ashland include the Festival of Light and Santa’s Parade.

If you’re searching for a cheap place to eat with the family, look no further than Creekside Pizza and El Tapatio.

It’s a laid-back pizzeria with mouth-watering build-your-own pizza, rotating brews, and a pool table.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Winchester Inn

46. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May, NJ Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The country’s first summer resort turns into a winter wonderland in December.

The town’s exquisite Victorian homes are decorated splendidly, and guests may tour these spots by candlelight.

And the town has trolley rides for those who want to see the town’s holiday outdoor displays.

Spend time exploring the pedestrian-only Washington Street Mall.

With its strolling carolers, greenery, and splendid lights, it’s a fantastic spot for people-watching.

Santa Claus sightings are common at this promenade too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hotel Cape May

47. Boise, Idaho

Boise, ID Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Even with its cold temperatures, December is an exciting time to spend a getaway in Boise.

Ideal for families, Boise is packed with fun Christmassy activities at this time of year.

You can admire breathtaking holiday lights, go ice skating, and even cut down a Christmas tree in Boise National Forest.

Amp up your Instagram game by experiencing the Scentsy Commons Christmas Lights display.

Stretching over 43 miles, this attraction has more than 400 trees beautifully decorated with holiday lights.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Grove Hotel

48. Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth, MN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Endless merry events, ales, and trails make Duluth one of America’s best Christmas destinations.

For those traveling with kids, the city has a nice holiday activity list, including Lake Superior train rides and skating rinks.

Sturdy winter boots are a must for December visitors in Duluth.

These boots will keep your feet dry and protect them from the bitter cold, slush, and salt.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Pier B Resort

49. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, MD Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Europe on your December trip to Baltimore.

As you wander around Baltimore, you’ll spot lively decorations, sparkling lights, and markets offering a taste of Europe.

Additionally, the city boasts an array of holiday events suited for the entire family, including the Meadowlark Botanical Garden Winter Walk of Lights.

Our favorite wintertime market in Baltimore is the Christmas Village.

Inspired by German markets, this spot has dozens of local craftsmen and local artists selling captivating items, like jewelry.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

50. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, AZ Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Don’t let its desert setting fool you.

In December, the Christmas spirit permeates this city with ice skating, cookie decorating, snowy scenes, and magical light displays.

Furthermore, the city’s leading hotels offer Christmas-themed events throughout the season, including breakfast with Santa at The Phoenician .

For a memorable vacation, see the magical Zoolights.

The Phoenix Zoo, every year, puts a tantalizing exhibit of Christmas lights transforming the animal displays into a winter wonderland.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale

51. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Atlanta is, no doubt, one of the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA.

From glistening lights to open-air ice skating rinks, the city dazzles with a multitude of holiday attractions and events.

Moreover, flights and accommodations are easy on the wallet in December since it’s the off-season.

Traveling with kids?

Don’t forget to check out the Winter Wonderland event at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

It’s an educational, family-friendly experience featuring trees and exhibits highlighting holiday traditions around the world.

The displays are available from mid-November to early January.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

For the ideal Christmas vacation, you must consider a few factors.

These include your family’s preferences and your budget.

If you crave the hustle and bustle of a city adorned with festive lights, The Sherry Netherland is the spot for you.

Its convenient location allows guests to visit nearby landmarks like Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and the Rockefeller Center.

The only drawback is there are limited activities to do on-site. 

For those looking for a quieter holiday, the comfortable lodgings and family-friendly activities at Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge make it an enticing place.

It features an activity area where guests can play shuffleboard and basketball.

And there are also specific areas for teens and kids to hang out. 

But, the destination itself is hard to locate. 

For a sunny Christmas, go to Montage Laguna Beach. 

It’s like a mini paradise with several amenities available to guests.

You can swim on the beach or just chill by the poolside cabanas. 

Unfortunately, security is lacking in the premises. 

Enzian Inn is an excellent alternative to these resorts. 

Holidays surrounded by magnificent mountains pair well with hot chocolate with the family. 

Since it’s a popular destination, some facilities need updating.

How I Picked The Destinations

I am an experienced travel writer and a parent.

Christmas vacations are always memorable, so I travel to the USA yearly to rate its must-visit holiday destinations.

Additionally, I interview locals and fellow parents traveling.

I also consult review sites and include the information shared by other travelers in my research. 

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family-Friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendliness of each destination. Are there activities and attractions for kids of all ages? Are there entertainment options for the whole family? Is it convenient for families with young children? I consider these factors when rating family-friendliness. 
• Festive Atmosphere: I use this to assess every location’s festive atmosphere. Are the decorations colorful, grand, and whimsical? Is there a parade and other holiday-related events? Is there a Santa meet and greet for the kids? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the festive atmosphere. 
• Attractions: This is used to assess the quality of attractions. Are there Christmas-themed events for the whole family? Does the location have amusement parks, museums, or historical sites? These are the factors I consider when rating attractions. 
• Affordability: I use this criterion to assess the affordability of each destination. Are the hotel rates budget-friendly during the Christmas season? Are there affordable dining options? Are there attractions or events that you can check out for free? I consider these factors when evaluating affordability. 
• Accessibility: I use this to rate accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there free parking spaces near popular areas? Does it have an efficient public transport system? I ask myself these questions when assessing accessibility. 
• Accommodation Options: I use this to evaluate the available accommodation options. Are there hotels, vacation rentals, or bed and breakfasts near popular locations? Are there rooms with kitchen facilities? Are there hotels with pools? I use these factors to rate this criterion. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best places to visit in the usa during the holidays.

The Sherry Netherland, Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge, and Montage Laguna Beach are the best places to visit during the holidays.

Where Is The Most Magical Place To Spend Christmas In The USA?

The most magical place to spend Christmas is The Sherry Netherland in New York. 

Each of these destinations offers a unique Christmas experience for the family.

During our stay, we swam in Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge’s indoor and outdoor pool.

The kids also got to stay at the teenagers’ den and the kids’ playroom.

And then, at night, we sat by the campfire and made some s’more.

Christmas was different at Montage Laguna Beach.

We’ve never had a sunny Christmas.

We spent our days tanning by the beach and simply having fun under the sun.

It’s something we want to experience again.

Similarly, our stay at Enzian Inn was also unique.

We loved how we were surrounded by nature.

So, we spent our entire vacation using the resort’s facilities.

Playing basketball with the kids is my favorite memory.

Still, going to The Sherry Netherland on Christmas day tops the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA.

The twinkling lights adorned every corner, and the palpable holiday spirit brought the city to life.

It boasted classic luxury that made our stay warm and inviting. 

Just steps away from Central Park and Times Square, the hotel was a perfect base to immerse ourselves in the city’s holiday cheer.

Plus, visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was the cherry on top, making our holiday experience truly unforgettable.

41 Magical Places to Visit During Christmastime

There's plenty of holiday cheer to go around at these spots in America, including NYC and Christmas Town USA.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

There's no better way to capture the magic of the holidays than to see it right before your eyes. Sure, you're able to take in some of it in your hometown thanks to your neighbors' festive decorations and local tree lighting ceremonies, but if you want to see what Christmas cheer America really has to offer, head out of town for a bit and visit one of these top Christmas places.

From magical New York City to Santa Claus, Indiana, any of these spots would make the perfect December getaway . All that's left to do is buy your tickets or fill up the car, and start packing. Just don't forget to bing the presents!

If you're looking for more vacation ideas, check out our 2024 Family Travel Awards .

Woodstock, Vermont

Looking for that quintessential New England holiday charm? You'll feel like you stepped into a Hallmark Christmas card in the historic charming town of Woodstock, which annually hosts an iconic holiday celebration called Wassail Weekend (think carriage rides, twinkling lights, decorated homes and more!).

Solvang, California

If you want to feel like you've traveled to Europe without leaving the country, you'll love the charm of this small city in California and the festive Danish-style holiday celebration they host every year called Julefest .

New York City, New York

Is there anything more iconic than Christmastime in New York? You'll of course want to take in the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Plaza (where you can also ice skate!), before marveling at the gorgeous Christmas window store displays along Fifth Avenue. Don't forget to catch The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular show!

RELATED: Fun and Festive Things to Do on Christmas Day in NYC

Vail, Colorado

For the ultimate winter getaway, head to the ski town of Vail, Colorado. You can spend the perfect snowy Christmas season at the ski slopes before strolling the idyllic winter wonderland of Vail Village. There, you can visit the Kris Kringle Market and witness the big tree lighting ceremony.

Seneca Falls, New York

If your favorite Christmas movie is It's A Wonderful Life, you need to visit Seneca Falls — the town believed to have been the real-life inspiration for the film’s fictional town of Bedford Falls. Each December, Seneca Falls holds a festival to celebrate the Christmas classic , complete with a movie screening, a meet-and-greet event with the cast, a parade and more.

Stockbridge, Massachussets

This Massachusetts town was once depicted in a 1967 Norman Rockwell painting (titled "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas") — and now, every holiday season, Stockbridge recreates the art, complete with vintage cars lined up on Main Street. Plus, the annual celebration also includes historic property tours, a holiday concert and more.

North Pole, Alaska

Every kid has dreamt of visiting Santa Claus at the North Pole — and as it turns out, you actually can! This quaint Alaskan town is home to the “Santa Claus House,” where you can also stroll down Santa Claus Lane, see live reindeer, and marvel at the world’s largest Santa statue. What could be a better way to celebrate Christmas?

Hershey, Pennsylvania

What better way is there to celebrate Christmas than with tons of chocolate? The whole family will love spending the holidays at Hersheypark ' s Christmas Candylane , where you can enjoy holiday rides, visit Santa (and his reindeer!) and take in more than 5 million lights decorating the fun-filled chocolate theme park.

Oahu, Hawaii

Forget winter wonderlands — if you’d rather go somewhere warm and sunny this year, a tropical Hawaiian Christmas is exactly what you might need. You’ll find plenty of holiday cheer (without the cold!) in the island of Oahu, especially aboard the Waikiki Holiday Lights Trolley tour and the annual Honolulu City Lights event.

McAdenville, North Carolina

McAdenville is known as " Christmas Town USA " — which, of course, makes it the perfect holiday season destination. Every winter, the small town transforms into a twinkling wonderland adorned with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

Aspen, Colorado

This beautiful ski resort town is a well-known haven for ski bunnies and travel enthusiasts, but it also holds plenty of Christmas activities during the holiday season, including an annual tree lighting, a fun-packed "12 Days of Aspen" event and holiday shows (like The Nutcracker ) at the Opera House.

New Orleans, Louisiana

You may first think of Mardi Gras when you think of New Orleans, but the Crescent City also pulls out all the stops during the holidays, too. After enjoying the city's dazzling light displays and bonfires, be sure to check out Celebration in the Oaks , which is said to be one of the most spectacular holiday lights festival in the country.

Taos, New Mexico

For those seeking a one-of-a-kind holiday experience, a must-go location is Taos, which offers a unique New Mexican spin on holiday traditions every year. The ski town celebrates the season with its annual Yuletide in Taos , which features holiday markets, bonfires and other ultra-festive events.

Branson, Missouri

There are light displays galore, as well as the massive event called An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City . But perhaps our favorite Branson holiday activity is hopping on the Polar Express, where you and your kids can witness the Chris Van Allsburg classic come to life.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston may be a great destination spot any time of the year, but it's especially magical (and still warm!) around the holidays, when the city goes all out on the Christmas festivities. This year, you can enjoy the Holiday Festival of Lights from your car before strolling down the streets to shop, eat and marvel at the city's historic mansions decked out for the holidays.

Jackson, New Hampshire

Around the holidays, there's no more apropos destination spot than the Christmas Farm Inn & Spa . After enjoying skiing and plenty of other outdoor activities, be sure to hop aboard a sleigh ride for the festive Jingle Bell Chocolate Tour , where you can taste test handmade chocolate while enjoying the sights.

Chicago, Illinois

There's nothing like winter in The Windy City, which celebrates the holidays with much cheer. From the Christkindltmarket to ice skating at Maggie Daley Park and a Christmas tree exhibition , there are plenty of holiday activities to enjoy. BOOK NOW

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth likens itself to a "swirling snow globe," and you'll definitely see why when you browse through photos of the Leavenworth Village of Lights . The Bavarian-style town has an annual tradition of hanging up beautiful Christmas lights downtown, and you'll be able to take it all in this year (though there won't be a big reveal at an official lighting festival as usual).

Cleveland, Ohio

You might recognize this home from the beloved Christmas movie A Christmas Story . Ralphie's iconic house has been restored as a museum , and now you can go inside and even stay the night . And yes, leg lamps are available for purchase (but remember, they're very fragile ).

RELATED: Here's Where 'A Christmas Story' Was Filmed 37 Years Ago

Andalusia, Alabama

Head down south this December for Andalusia's Candyland , the town's ultra-festive holiday event held throughout the month. Admission is free of charge, but includes a small $4 fee for horse-drawn carriage rides. You can also enjoy the Snow Show, take photos with Santa, hop on the holiday train and more!

Hannah Jeon is an Associate Commerce Editor at Prevention, where she covers expert-driven commerce content for all things health, beauty, and wellness. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Good Housekeeping, she earned her bachelor’s degree in creative writing and psychology from Johns Hopkins University. When she’s not on the hunt for all the best products online, you can often find her trying out new food spots in New York City or clicking away behind a camera.

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Head here for holiday cheer.

Seeking someplace where snow will almost be a guarantee? Book tickets to Park City, Utah or Leavenworth, Washington. More in the mood for a warm-weather holiday? Head to Delray Beach, Florida, which lights a 100-foot tall tree each year, or go with the small-town charm of Solvang, California, where Julefest takes place all December long. And we’d be remiss not to mention the year-round Christmas towns of Santa Claus, Indiana and North Pole, Alaska, which find ways to honor the holiday 365 days a year.

Ready to make all your Hallmark Christmas town dreams come true? Then alert the in-laws, bundle up the kids, and hit the road. These magical American Christmas towns are ready to embrace you with open arms, opportunities for new Christmas traditions , and, of course, a warm cup of hot chocolate or two. Happy Holidays, y'all!

Middleburg, VA

Settle in for an old-fashioned Christmas in the heart of Virginia’s horse and hunt country, where you can cheer on a parade of loyal hounds as they ride through the streets, sip on small-batch hard ciders at Mt. Defiance , and shop for old-world holiday decor, including Wilhelm Schweizer pewter ornaments, and Wendt & Kühn windup music boxes, at year-round holiday shop The Christmas Sleigh .

Gruene, Texas

A two-steppin' Texas Christmas awaits in this cotton town-turned-thriving historic district located within the community of New Braunfels. Pose for pics with Cowboy Kringle, Gruene's distinctive wrangler spin on Father Christmas, take in the annual Pony Express Ride, a beloved holiday tradition that sees a horseback cavalcade carry a message of yuletide cheer from the state governor straight through town, then head to Gruene Hall , Texas’s oldest continuously running dance hall, for a calendar jam-packed with holiday shows.

Plan Your Trip

Woodstock, VT

In the heart of the Green Mountains, a Christmas card-worthy village and its surrounding hamlets shine with New England charm. Go cross-country skiing, visit covered bridges, and bundle up for horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered pastures at Billings Farm & Museum .

Plan your Trip

Stockbridge, MA

Stockbridge might look just like a Norman Rockwell painting—and that's because it is! Each year, the town re-creates the 1967 Rockwell painting, "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas (Home for Christmas)" during their annual festival . Old-fashioned cars line the main street to re-create the painting, and the public can tour historic homes decorated for the holidays.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Park City, UT

Why not escape to a literal winter wonderland for Christmas? Park City is a breathtaking place nestled in the mountains. There are tons of Christmas events throughout December such as holiday markets , sleigh rides , and a Christmas Eve torchlight parade , where skiers and snowboarders come down the mountain carrying torches to lead Santa into town.

Franklin, TN

Step back in time at the annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in historic downtown Franklin. The festival, which is in its 35th year, brings characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist to life throughout its weekend-long festivities. Roam the Victorian Village and try Victorian-era Christmas treats like sugar plums while listening to carolers. Stop for a chat with Jacob Marley or Ebenezer Scrooge before visiting Father Christmas.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Essex at Christmastime. Ride the North Pole Express , then keep things locomotive-themed at the annual Holiday Train Show , or do some Christmas shopping at the holiday village where you can also catch a stunning light show. Have dinner or even stay at the historic Griswold Inn for the perfect New England holiday.

Cape Cod, MA

Looking for boatloads of Christmas cheer with a New England twist? Head to Cape Cod ! There are few things more picturesque than lighthouses decked to their nines in Christmas garlands, wreaths, and lights. What's more, the quaint seaside destination hosts dozens of craft fairs, parades, theater productions, and even a Train to Christmas Town .

Ann Arbor, MI

There's so much to love about a Christmas in Ann Arbor, from the dozens of holiday events offered (think: free outdoor markets, German food fairs, lantern parades, s'mores roasting, and live music, just to name a few). The annual "Sing Along with Santa" event, presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra , is a can't-miss spectacle. It's just what is sounds like: A carol sing-along featuring Santa himself, plus plenty of cookies and cider.

North Pole, AK

Bet you never thought you could make a trip to the North Pole ! This town may not be the real thing, but it's got the name—and it boasts year-round Christmas spirit. There's also a "Santa Claus house" with live reindeer, a mayor who goes by the name of Santa, and candy cane street lamps. How's that for a winter wonderland?

New York, NY

It may not be a tiny town, but it's still got all the charm—and it'd be impossible to make a list of the best Christmas towns in America without including the Big Apple ! There's simply no place quite like New York City at Christmastime. With its countless attractions, skating rinks, and shopping opportunities galore, it's an obvious choice for at least one of your family's Christmas trips.

Bethlehem, PA

Spend Christmas in Bethlehem without shelling out a fortune on airfare or traveling back in time! This Pennsylvania town boasts horse-drawn carriage rides and a "Christmas City Stroll" that'll have your entire family smiling and laughing.

Greenville, SC

Want to feel like you're walking around on the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie? Then you'll want to head to Greenville, South Carolina, where the sidewalks twinkle with lights as Santa’s electric sleigh drives by with an elf in tow. There's even a miniature outdoor skating rink on Main Street, a "Festival of Trees" competition, tree lighting ceremonies, and more. It's downright magical!

Solvang, CA

Take a trip to gorgeous wine country this holiday season and visit Solvang , located in the Santa Ynez Valley . The town hosts Julefest , which lasts all December long. Guests can go on go on a Holiday Lights Tour, take part in the Santa Sprint, listen to live holiday music, and much more.

Andalusia, AL

It doesn't get too cold in Andalusia , but that doesn't stop the town from turning into a winter wonderland. Every weekend in December, residents flock to Candyland, a kid-friendly event where children of all ages can ice-skate, visit the different holiday cottages, and meet Santa. The best part? Admission is free!

Bardstown, KY

This Kentucky town kicks off the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving—that's November 23 this year—with the Light Up Bardstown celebration . Kids will have a blast at the Fun Christmas Corner, where they can enjoy sweet treats and face painting. Everyone in the family will love the annual Christmas tree lighting and an appearance by Santa Claus himself.

Leavenworth, WA

On any day of the year, this Bavarian village gives off an Alpine holiday air. But during snowy December, visitors are met with 21 miles of lights along the homes and fences, and can also anticipate handbell concerts, a lively Christkindlmarkt, harp music, and a weekly festival with carolers, Gluhwein, and sledding gathered 'round the town's tree.

Branson, MO

Each year, this Missouri city hosts the Ozark Mountain Christmas festival, a month-long extravaganza with festive music, light shows, and plenty of parades. You can even hop aboard the Branson Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride and feel like you're in a scene from the classic movie. Don't forget the hot chocolate!

Asheville, NC

Not surprisingly, much of Asheville's holiday focus is on Biltmore , the historic Vanderbilt mansion, which dresses up lavishly with ribbons, garlands, and sparking lights. Elsewhere in this active mountain town, locals gather to watch Santa rappel down Chimney Rock as a warm-up exercise for his upcoming Christmas Eve activities . The well-established arts scene in town makes shopping for unique gifts easy at craft shows and studio visits in the River Arts District.

Frankenmuth, MI

Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth's European heritage is on full display during the Christmas season. Some of the town's charming holiday highlights include a traditional Christkindlmarkt, a holiday home tour hosted by the Frankenmuth Women's Club, whimsical light displays, and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store.

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15 magical places to visit during christmas holidays 2022.

Bucket list group travel brings to you list of places to visit during Christmas holidays 2022, and some of them you can book with our group too during Christmas Holidays 2022 or any other time you like.

Christmas isn’t just a celebration, it’s an experience that brings the world under a beautifully decorated tree. Some celebrate festivals at home, while others like to explore different destinations around the world. There are many wonderful Christmas holidays 2022 destinations in the world where you can wonderfully celebrate Christmas. Bucket List Group Travel experts have done the right research on the best Christmas destinations to understand your priorities. Get to know the best places in the world to celebrate Christmas beautifully.

Visit Lapland, Finland during Christmas Holidays 2022

If you want to see Santa Claus everywhere during this beautiful time of year, Finland’s Arctic Circle tops the places to visit during Christmas. A cheerful man in a red and white robe is the city’s most respected inhabitant. You can follow him into the reindeer-dotted forest and watch his elves prepare the toys. The city creates a magical world and if you like to celebrate a white Christmas, this is the perfect place to do so. As one of the best Christmas destinations, Lapland has a wonderful ‘Santa Claus Park’. is there and you can enjoy it.

Vatican, Italy

The beautiful Vatican City is charming all year round, but here in December is truly magical. With extra beats selling freshly baked clichés on every corner, the city is brimming with a great scene. The Vatican City on Christmas Eve attracts large crowds of pilgrims, and a midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica guarantees them an unforgettable day. To make your Christmas Eve extra special, visit cities ranked among the top Christmas destinations in the world.

Bondi Beach, Australia

Australia’s Bondi Beach is known for offering snow and fairy lights that are the complete opposite of the northern hemisphere’s Christmas formula. This place is one of the best places to celebrate and enjoy Christmas with sand, sun and waves. This beach attracts many backpackers who want to leave their homes and enjoy the best of Christmas celebrations. Bands and DJs create the perfect festive atmosphere here. So if you want to try something different this Christmas with the same Christmas tree and fairy lights, visit this place.

Munich, Germany is one of the best places to visit during christmas

Munich is one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations in the world. Winter in Munich means a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree on Marienplatz above 20 Christmas markets. Another great thing to enjoy here is the mulled wine and gingerbread served on the trams through the Old Town. Enjoy live holiday music on the balcony of the Town Hall during your visit to Munich. I enjoy being here.

Prague, Czech Republic

A beautiful city in the Czech Republic – Prague looks beautiful during the Christmas holidays. He is one of the most picturesque Christmas destinations in the world. Take in views of the city’s Baroque and Gothic architecture as you stroll along Mala Strana’s historic Nerudova Street. Catch an opera or ballet at the State Opera or the National Theatre. Also visit the Christmas markets on Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Christmas here is fun.

Dublin, Ireland

There are many opportunities to enjoy Christmas on the streets of Dublin. Over 12 days, the Docklands Christmas Market features pantomimes, Christmas lights and seasonal cheers. The streets of these cities are beautifully lit up. Children can visit the elven workshop. Enjoy Merry Christmas at this place.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is known for chocolate, mountains, snow and cobbled streets. At Christmas the place becomes a breathtaking destination. The city’s markets are crowded and you can enjoy guided Christmas walks and the singing of the Christmas tree. With great enthusiasm for celebrating Christmas, the city invites visitors to enjoy life’s special Christmas Eve. So where are you going for Christmas holidays 2022?

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the best places in the world to enjoy the Christmas holidays. With the scent of mulled wine, sparkling Christmas decorations in imperial buildings and three open-air Christmas markets, you’ll enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas treat. Travelers can explore and purchase a selection of handicrafts and decorations. You can also enjoy delicious finger food with spiced mulled wine. A Christmas holiday in Vienna will be a lot of fun.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s liveliest and most affordable capital city and the perfect place to celebrate Christmas holidays 2022. It’s a destination that’s small but cozy, people-paced, and easy-to-navigate pre-Christmas activities. The city’s Tivoli Gardens gets a new look every year, and this year it’s decorated with half a million lights and thousands of Christmas trees. Makes a gorgeous centerpiece for the festive season.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, the German capital, is one of the best places to visit during Christmas, where you can enjoy classic Christmas concerts and many other moments. About 50 Christmas markets are held in various locations each year. All markets offer high-quality handicrafts as well as historic rides such as swing carousels for children and fans of vintage cars. As well as candles and consumption, Christmas Eve also hosts many museums and cultural events.

Christmas in London is just plain fun, with glittering Christmas lights and ice skating at traditional markets and Christmas shows. Explore the spectacular Christmas lights of Oxford Street twinkling above the world-famous shopping district, and Christmas concerts across London. Christmas shopping in London is where you’ll find some of the city’s best Christmas goodies, cool fashion boutiques and beautiful bookstores. To meet Santa, you can visit ZSL London Zoo, WWT London Wetland Centre, Rainforest Cafe and Royal Albert Hall.

Tallinn, Estonia

The Estonian capital is known for its wonderful Christmas atmosphere. The town is strewn with snow, and when it gets dark, lanterns light up and decorate the cobbled streets. The world’s first Christmas tree was erected here in 1441 and the legendary tree still occupies a prominent position on Town Hall Square today. The tree is surrounded by small huts selling handicrafts, snow sculptures, Estonian food and drink, and a small zoo. Christmas holidays in Tallinn are a lot of fun.

Scotland, Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a historically cosmopolitan and cultural city and ranks among the top Christmas holidays 2022 destinations in the world.From the normally flat Lothian landscape to a series of extinct volcanoes and rock formations It enjoys a wonderfully impressive setting with towering cliffs. Christmas in Edinburgh is celebrated in style so you can make the most of your holiday.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is home to many themed Christmas villages that transform the city into an incredible fairytale, full of holiday attractions and gastronomic delights. Different villages offer visitors different things to experience and enjoy. Offering a wide range of concerts and cultural events of all kinds, the city’s Christmas program is popular with many travelers looking to spend the Christmas holidays with their families. So where are you going for Christmas this year? You can book international flights here.

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These Are The Most Welcoming Countries For American Tourists

7 most beautiful alpine lakes to hike in colorado, this cute city is the most dangerous place in california.

It’s almost that time of the year when the bells jingle and the streets are decorated beautifully for Christmas celebrations. Christmas is one of the happiest times of the year. During this period, people have the opportunity to spend time with families, enjoy seasonal treats, and listen to beautiful carol songs. But while most parts of the world celebrate this holiday, there are places where the celebration is taken to a whole new level and celebrated with passion. With many of these destinations featuring massive Christmas markets and a wide range of winter activities, they promise the best Christmas experience one can have anywhere in the world.

10 Vienna, Austria

Christmas in Vienna begins as early as Mid-November, and it begins with the extravagant decoration and lighting of the streets. When all that combines with the chills and scenery of winter, this city transforms into a winter wonderland. Throughout the Christmas season in Vienna, one can expect streets filled with the pleasant aroma of delicious treats and lots of events to watch. Do yourself a favor in Vienna by grabbing a mug of hot chocolate and proceeding to browse through the Christmas market stalls in the city’s several Christmas markets. Be sure not to miss out on the Vienna Christmas Market, which is considered the largest of its kind in the world . For more Christmas adventures, attend an advent concert, walk through Rathausplatz, or go Ice skating in front of the city hall.

Related: Explore These Festive Christmas Markets In Historic Vienna

9 Salzburg, Austria

The sights of the streets of Salzburg during Christmas are enough to put anyone in the holiday spirit. With bubbling Christmas markets, dazzling Christmas decorations, and a wide range of winter activities, Salzburg is one of the best places to be for Christmas. Being the birthplace of Mozart, this city is a great place to enjoy music. Visitors to this city should keep an ear out for the melodies of “the Sound of Music” and some of Mozart’s epic songs while sampling the delicious Christmas treats in the city’s spectacular Christmas markets. Residenzplatz - the main square is the best place to get this experience, and while walking through the square, one can also use the opportunity to explore the Panorama museum and the Salzburg cathedral.

8 Lapland, Finland

Christmas in Lapland is magical and full of cheer. The streets here are covered in heavy snow, and the city is also popular for being the home of Santa Claus . People spend their Christmas holiday in Lapland by pursuing the Northern Lights, engaging in reindeer sleigh rides, skiing, and visiting Rovaniemi - the home of Santa Claus.

7 Nuremberg, Germany

The main place to enjoy the joy of Christmas in Nuremberg is the Nuremberg Christmas Market which is considered one of the oldest in the world. Here, one will be presented with hundreds of stalls offering a wide variety of Christmas treats. While walking through the massive market and sampling the various dishes, also take note of the sweet smell of mulled wine and gingerbread and also take in the views of the sparkling Christmas decorations and the colorful lights that overwhelm the place.

6 San Fernando, The Philippines

The Philippines may not have snow, but it is an amazing Christmas destination for many reasons. With the Christmas celebration here lasting for more than four months, Christmas in the Philippines is the longest in the world . Christmas decorations in San Fernando and other parts of the country begin as early as September and goes on throughout October, November, and December. The celebration even enters the first week of January. Throughout the Christmas celebration in San Fernando, there will be lots of Christmas performances and events across the country. People in this city during the Christmas celebration period often come across dancing traffic officers and streets decorated with beautiful Christmas colors and trees. There are even Christmas carols held as early as September 1.

5 Montreal, Canada

Christmas in Montreal, Canada, comes with plenty of events, activities, and seasonal treats. Visitors can start by shopping for gifts at Nutcracker Market before proceeding to walk through Jacques Cartier Square, where there will be lots of performances, food, and drinks. Some exciting events worth attending in Montreal during the Christmas season include - Santa Claus Parade and the Candlelit Walk. The Christmas fireworks at Old Montreal are also an amazing event worth experiencing.

4 Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is often considered one of the most romantic cities in the world . Perhaps this is why Christmas here is so romantic and full of cheer. Christmas in the Czech comes with beautiful scenery that’s characterized by lots of snow, beautiful decorations, and warm, bright lights. In the Czech, there are many things to do during the Christmas season aside from going through the markets and sampling delicious treats. One can also check the views from the Old Town Tower, go ice skating, and attend the numerous musical shows held during the Christmas season.

3 Strasbourg, France

One spectacular highlight of the Christmas season in Strasbourg is ushering in the opening of some of the world’s most magical Christmas markets. But that’s not all that has made this city to now be known as the Christmas capital of the world . Strasbourg also comes with gigantic Christmas trees, glittering Christmas decorations, and plenty of seasonal treats. The mix of German and French cultures in this city also makes the experience here more exciting as there will be a wide variety of food. While browsing through the markets around the city is the most popular thing to do here, visitors can also fill up their time here by visiting the museums and galleries or going ice skating at Place Kleber.

Related: These Are France's 10 Most Enchanting Christmas Markets For 2022

2 Copenhagen, Denmark

Christmas is a beautiful time to be in the happy city of Copenhagen. During this period, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland as the roofs get covered in snow. With shorter days and longer, darker nights, the lights are always kept in Copenhagen, especially during the Christmas season. Visitors here during Christmas will be met with sparkling decorations and colorful lights all over the streets. Christmas in Copenhagen also comes with amazing Christmas markets and a wide range of winter activities.

1 Bethlehem, West Bank

Bethlehem is particularly popular during Christmas because it is the birthplace of Jesus. This makes Christmas here particularly significant. Christmas in Bethlehem comes with a lot of events and street decorations. Bethlehem’s center square and Manger square are two popular places where one can go in Bethlehem to witness the amazing Christmas performances and see the massive Christmas tree. The Church of Nativity is also a place one must visit during Christmas, especially as it is considered the exact spot where Jesus was born thousands of years ago.

The Best Places to Travel for Christmas

Tempted to skip town for the holidays? Here are a few places we recommend.

Maui, Hawaii

The best way to show your support for Maui after the devastating Lahaina wildfires? Go! But do it mindfully. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea will help with that. On December 4, it's unveiling a stunning floral art installation, entitled "Red Hawaiian Christmas." The artist, Noah Harders, who was born and raised in Waikapū, paid homage to the land by using traditional Hawaiian elements, like weaving coconut palm fronds and palm leaves found on Maui's west side, plus incorporating locally grown anthuriums, as well as plays on raffia skirts and lauhala belts as nods to hula. While there will be plenty of festive programming to choose from, the highlight will be the Love for Lahaina Grand Tasting, which will bring together chefs from Lahaina who lost their restaurants in the fires—all proceeds will go to recovery efforts.

New York, New York

Yes it's crowded, yes it's touristy, but there is no denying the charms of NYC during the holidays. From the Rockefeller tree (pro tip: go on a weekday morning for a far calmer experience) to the many, many must-see things happening around town— The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet, the Rockettes at Radio City, the holiday train show at the New York Botanical Garden—you're guaranteed to get the full NYC Christmas experience. Plus a side of Swiss coziness if you stay at the Mark , where Jean-Georges is transforming a corner of the property into the Mark Chalet, complete with wood panels, gingham details, and fondue on the menu.

Read Reviews The Mark

Savannah, Georgia

Just to take meandering strolls to admire Savannah's beautiful stately homes swathed in festive decor would be enough to fill out a holiday in town, but it helps too that this charming city is full of fantastic restaurants and layered with centuries of history. The Perry Lane Hotel will get you in the Christmas spirit with its over-the-top decorations and plenty of festive experiences for kids and adults alike. Think holiday-themed cocktails, seasonal dining menus, reindeer greets on the roof, gift-stuffed stockings delivered by elves, and a story time with Mrs. Claus.

Read Reviews Perry Lane Hotel

Lake Como, Italy

You will be pampered and spoiled like an Italian aristocrat at Villa d'Este , which is staying open for Christmas this year, something Lake Como's grandest dame establishment has done only a handful of times in its history. The sumptuous decorations strewn over every inch of the palazzo will probably have you begging them to make this an annual tradition. So will all the indulgences on the list of festive pursuits, like caviar tastings; a brand new Chocolate Room filled with cakes, cookies, and Villa d'Este's own artisanal panettone; and a Christmas menus with delicacies like risotto with langoustine, eggs in cocotte with Alba truffle, and Campidoglio goose leg confit with foie gras and chestnuts.

Read Reviews Villa d'Este

The Ozarks, Missouri

The picturesque region that sprawls across four states (Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and a sliver of Kansas) will provide tons of Christmas entertainment—especially for the kids—courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge . The 4,600-acre wilderness resort in Ridgedale, MO, will be a true playground of festive pursuits. On the extensive list of activities: gingerbread bake-offs, visits from Santa, baking workshops with Mrs. Claus, storytime with elves, an ugly sweater party hosted by the Grinch complete with green pancakes and green hot chocolate, and a guided golf cart tour through the Lost Canyon Cave, which will be illuminated with 4 million lights.

Read Reviews Big Cedar Lodge

There's really no better time than the end of the year to take that bucket list trip to the farthest ends of the earth. At the St. Regis Bora Bora , you'll still have plenty of Christmas cheer—with a Polynesian twist. A champagne sabering celebration on December 23 kicks off two weeks of themed programming, which includes a visit from Santa, multicourse feasts, al fresco movie nights, and fireworks, plus cultural activities like flower crown weaving and shell jewelry classes and an introducton to Va'a, a form of traditional Polynesian canoeing.

Read Reviews St. Regis Bora Bora

Park City, Utah

You're pretty much guaranteed to have a white Christmas in Park City, the perfect snowy haven for skiing and, more importantly, everything après. Auberge Resorts' Lodge at Blue Sky is a 3,500-acre winter wonderland where there is something festive for everyone in the family. Santa scavenger hunts, gingerbread house-making competitions, cookie decorating, and a cocoa bar for the kids; wine tastings, charcuterie board workshops, cacao rituals, and meditative hikes for the adults; with horse-drawn sleigh rides and Christmas movie nights to please all ages.

Read Reviews The Lodge at Blue Sky

Leave the kids at home for this one. The Caribbean's swankiest island gets even more so at Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf , which has a $12,000 package for the holiday season that'll get you two nights in a deluxe bungalow suite stocked with cookies, eggnog, champagne and even a Christmas tree, a sunset cruise, and Biologique Recherche couple's treatments, all topped off with a romantic New Year's Eve dinner.

Read Reviews Hotel Le Barrière Le Carl Gustaf

Munich, Germany

Germany's Christmas markets are legendary and you really can't go wrong with any of the ones that spring up around the country come December. Munich is on the top of our list for the city's Bavarian history and architecture, the fabulous location of its main market in Marienplatz, and the new Rosewood , the first international luxury property to open in Munich since 2007, which also happens to be perfectly situated in the heart of the city.

Read Reviews Rosewood Munich

Péréz Zeledón, Costa Rica

Good food, good vibes, reconnecting with nature and giving back? We can't think of a better way to spend the last few weeks of 2023. At the all-inclusive Hacienda AltaGracia , Christmas comes with a side of wellness. Sound baths, chakra meditations, moon ceremonies, astrology forecasts, and crystal workshops are on the menu, as are festive things like an introduction to rompope (a Latin version of eggnog), a traditional horse parade known as El Tope, and a Christmas Eve dinner with honey-glazed turkey, crispy pork belly with pineapple chili relish, and a chocolate and vanilla yule log. There's opportunity to do good, too: sign up for the high canopy tree net experience, not only for stunning sunset views but because 15% of proceeds will be donated to Baby2Baby. You can also help deliver parcels of food and necessities to the local girls orphanage on Christmas Day.

Read Reviews Hacienda AltaGracia

Umbria, Italy

What would Gwyneth Paltrow do? If you consider yourself someone who ponders this question often, we suggest putting the Italian countryside on the list. It's where you'll find Reschio, a stunning estate sprinkled with private villas that GP calls one of her favorite places on earth. Two years ago, the Borza family, second-generation owners of the 3,750-acre pile , added a 36-suite hotel, the Hotel Castello di Reschio . If you want a cozy holiday, this is where you'll want to be—a Christmas Eve bonfire picnic, mass in the family chapel, country walks and board games, and plenty of cocktails by the fireplace to be had in between, are just some of what to expect.

Read Reviews Hotel Castello di Reschio

Ascot, England

Ascot may be most famous for the annual horse race so beloved by the royal family, but it has its wintertime charms too, especially at the grand Coworth Park . The Dorchester Collection property is everything you would envision in an English countryside estate, with tons of fireplaces, cozy nooks, and stunning Christmas decorations. Special on-site holiday activities include a champagne afternoon tea accompanied by festive singing, a screening of the King's televised Christmas Day address, card-making workshops, and many a multi-course feast. Plus, the 22-suite property is less than an hour from London should you want to add a day of culture and shopping to the itinerary.

Read Reviews Coworth Park

London, England

London famously goes all out for its Christmas decorations, meaning you certainly won't be wanting for festive spirit in the UK capital. Not to mention the shopping! Take care of all your last minute gift needs at classics like Harrod's and Fortnum & Mason before retreating to the luxurious confines of Claridge's , a London grande dame that also happens to have some of the best holiday decorations in town—this year Louis Vuitton is designing its famous Christmas tree.

Read Reviews Claridge's

Loire Valley, France

The majestic châteaux and Old World landmarks of France's Loire Valley spare no expense with their Christmas decorations and holiday events . Each is done up in a different theme—Château de Villandry will have a winter garden with ornamental cabbage and leeks and boxwood lace, for example, while Château de Chenonceau will overflow with flowers and Château d'Aizy-le-Rideau with a profusion of sweets. As for where to stay, opt for a historic château of your own with the 80-acre Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé , which was originally built in 1764 for Baron Jacques Pineau de Viennay, a close confidant of King Louis XV, and now has just 17 rooms, each exquisitely decorated with de Gournay and Pierre Frey wallpaper, plus three centuries' worth of art and antiques.

Read Reviews Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé

Asheville, North Carolina

You can still get the European château experience without leaving the country at Asheville, home of Biltmore, the jaw-droppingly grand estate—at 178,926 square feet it's the largest private home in America—owned by the Vanderbilt family. The over-the-top Christmas decorations here are reason enough to visit, but there is also a fun dining and arts scene to explore in Asheville proper too. As for where to stay, the sprawling grounds of Biltmore has a selection of accommodations—we recommend the standalone cottages so you can really get a feel for the Gilded Age life.

Kennebunk, Maine

Quintessentially cozy New England charm can be found all along the Eastern seaboard, though this enclave of Maine does it particularly well thanks to the White Barn Inn , an institution for more than 150 years. For Christmas the Auberge resort is going all in on holiday indulgence: think cookies and eggnog by the fire, cocktail classes using locally foraged botanicals, an appearance by Santa at afternoon tea, a Christmas Eve feast, an invigorating beach hike to work it off the next morning, followed by another feast on Christmas Day.

Read Reviews White Barn Inn

Zermatt, Switzerland

Switzerland has a postcard-perfect ski resort for every type of traveler, from jetsetters in search of a scene (St. Moritz) to die-hard monarchists who follow the Windsors' every move (Klosters). Traveling with the kids? Put Zermatt on the list. Not only does this charming—and car-free—village have a sprawling state-of-the-art network of trails for every level of skier, it's also home to one of the country's greatest landmarks: the Matterhorn. And thanks to the recent launch of a ski lift that connects to Italy's Aosta Valley just beyond the mountain, you can literally ski in two countries in a single afternoon. As for where to stay, we like the Hotel Monte Rosa , a 41-room Victorian jewel box of a property full of history and old world touches.

Read Reviews Hotel Monte Rosa

Danube River

The Christmas markets that spring up in various towns of Central Europe (Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria) are legendary—and thanks to Uniworld, they can all be enjoyed in one wonderful cruise down the Danube River. The company's 8-day Danube Holiday Markets trip includes stops in Passau, Salzburg, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. In addition to the many, many shopping excursions (do yourself a favor and bring a spare suitcase), there will also be spiced wine tastings, concert outings, a cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wachau Valley, and museum visits.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena ticks off many boxes for a wonderful Christmastime holiday: it has a rich history, highly Instagrammable architecture, vibrant nightlife, and loads of charm. Plus, it's a short flight from the East Coast and the weather will be perfect. Stay long enough for New Year's Eve, when the streets of Old Town turn into one giant exuberant festival. When you're ready to call it a night, retreat into the elegant confines of the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara , which has all the requisite creature comforts of a modern hotel, along with unique details (confessionals, water wells, arched walkways) that hark back to its former life as a 17th century convent.

Read Reviews Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

County Mayo, Ireland

The incredible Christmas decor alone is reason enough to spend the holidays at Ashford Castle , the 800-year-old property that was once the home of the Guinness family. Along with seasonal treats like mulled wine, minced pies, festive afternoon tea, and carol singing, there is a plethora of resort activities to sign up for, whether it's falconry, boat trips, clay shooting, archery, or horseback riding, to name just a few. The best part? Ending your day in one of Ashford Castle's 83 rooms, all individually decorated in sumptuous fabrics and furnishings, beautiful antiques, and thoughtful modern luxuries.

Read Reviews Ashford Castle

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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The Best Places to Visit for Christmas In 2022 and 2023

So here it is, our 2021 Merry Christmas time! Though the Christmas’s of last year, this year, and the next few years may look odd and uncertain, it’s still a favourite time of year for so many, and especially for lots of travellers. Whether you love a chilly, winter wonderland, or you’re looking to celebrate Christmas summertime style, some of the best places to visit for Christmas in the coming years are probably already on your bucket list.  

From the winter sun of destinations like the Caribbean, Mauritius, Hawaii, and Fiji to the snowy caps of Norway, Alaska, Canada, Iceland and more, Christmas time is one of the most popular times of year for some fantastic holidays.   

With the Christmas traveller’s excitement also come many awesome deals from some great travel businesses, plus unique new packages for the holiday season. Because of the hype that Christmas insights in travellers and the travel industry alike, we highly recommend that if you want to go on holiday for Christmas in 2022 or 2023, you find your great holiday now.  

Booking in advance hasn’t only become a great advantage in 2021, but travellers also need to keep in mind that it’s not just the rest of the British travellers you’re competing with to book up a holiday, but Christmas travellers around the world.   

Of course, before you can book a great holiday for next Christmas, you need to decide which great destination to go to! With such a great array of spots, here are a few ideas of some of the best places to visit for Christmas next year (we also recommend that you keep an eye on the  Foreign Travel Advice  page throughout the booking process to keep up to date on your destination policies).   

Christmas in the Winter Sun

If you’re thinking of escaping the British chill for some winter sunshine next Christmas, there are some fabulous destinations all around the world that are perfect for catching the winter sun.   

A lot of these are lovely island paradise destinations, from Hawaii in the US to Seychelles in East Africa and The Canary Islands in Europe. No matter what corner of the world you want to visit, there’s some winter sun waiting for you.   

Hawaii is a delightful place to visit at Christmas time, with so much character exuded from each individual island’s life, lovely creatures to see, relaxing beaches to visit, and a peaceful atmosphere that isn’t too busy when you want to get out with the family.   

The Canary Islands are also fantastic, bringing you the spirit of Spain and their own flavours at a good price and with no-nonsense booking. If you want an easy to book holiday with lots of activities to explore and some excellent accommodation, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Palma are fantastic islands to visit for your Christmas holiday.   

If you’re looking for some accessible holidays to experience a mix of fascinating cultures around Christmas time, there are also great places in the Middle East such as Egypt, or you can find a wonderful blend of cultures in Morrocco with all the accessibility of hotels, markets, and towns for a great mixed family holiday.   

We could go on for hours listing some of the wonderful destinations that you could book up around Christmas time, with the plentiful sunny spots you can find, and some fantastic travel businesses will already be setting up some great packages for these lovely spots.   

A Classic Winter Wonderland Christmas

If you’re a big fan of the classic winter wonderland, white Christmas atmosphere, then some of the best places to visit for Christmas next year have to be in the Scandinavian countries. From Iceland to Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Sweden, and other northern snowy places like Canada and Alaska.   

If you’re looking to sink into the Christmas traditions and celebrations of other cultures, Scandinavia is the Christmas holiday for you. In Iceland specifically, there are Christmas markets aplenty, snow to spare, and magic in the air. From the Northern Lights to the Blue Lagoon, Iceland is a magical stop on your Christmas Journey any year, with or without family travelling with you (if you’d like to find out some of the top reasons to visit Iceland any time of year, check out our article).  

The Northern Lights are also a magical phenomenon shared among a few of these destinations, so if you’re into a more familiar culture then Canada or Alaska may be the spots for you. Both plentiful in the snow department, providing cities and rural, peaceful spots alike. Canada especially provides some fantastic Christmas celebrations in the cities and festivities galore.   

And of course, we can’t forget about the homes to the home of Santa Claus himself, with Finland, Sweden, and Norway all surrounding the fantastic Lapland. If you want snow, reindeer, Santa, and natural splendour, there’s nowhere else but Lapland to go. Wrap yourself up in Christmas, and curl up by the fire, though, because snow in Lapland is practically infinite.   

Christmas isn’t just a day anymore, this is one of the most beloved times of the year for travellers and non-travellers alike, and wherever you choose to celebrate, planning your Christmas is exciting. Whether you want to escape the cold or bathe in it, it’s never too early to book up some great Christmas trips for the coming years, whatever they may bring.   

So, if you’re excited to book some cosy Christmas holidays, don’t forget to get in contact with a travel business registered with PTS and offering 100% financial protection through trust. Or, if you’d like assistance choosing one of our merry members to book with, you can contact PTS directly at 0207 190 9988 .  

And if you’d like to learn more about your consumer protection with PTS or how the Package Travel Regulations protect your holiday booking, check out our pages.  

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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