Best Places to Travel for Christmas in the US
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Or maybe a festive holiday escape with warm weather? Explore 28 of the most magical Christmas destinations across the US, from twinkling Christmas towns like McAdenville, North Carolina, to the vibrant Christkindlmarket in Chicago. Discover unique traditions, thrilling activities like dog sledding in Breckenridge, and dazzling light displays in Macon. Unwrap the perfect holiday experience – start planning your Christmas adventure today!
Important information
- The US offers a wide variety of Christmas destinations, from traditional markets to adventurous escapes.
- Experience German traditions at Chicago’s Christkindlmarket or visit the Christmas Village in Bethlehem, PA.
- See the National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC, go dogsledding in Breckenridge, CO, or meet Santa in North Pole, AK.
- Enjoy unique celebrations like a Danish Christmas in Solvang, CA, or the dazzling lights of McAdenville, NC (Christmas Town USA).
- Find warm-weather festivities in San Diego, CA, or a quiet holiday by the sea in Ogunquit, ME.
Exploring Top Christmas Destinations in the US
Dreaming of a magical Christmas escape? Look no further than the US, a treasure trove of festive destinations. From coast to coast, discover unique local traditions and vibrant cultures. We’ve curated 28 top spots guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable holiday experience.
Must-See Christmas Festivities and Attractions
Experience the magic of Christmas in Chicago at the Christkindlmarket, brimming with unique gifts and festive treats. Alternatively, embrace the charm of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania’s Christmas Village. Don’t miss the magnificent National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC.
- Chicago, Illinois: Christkindlmarket.
- Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Christmas Village.
- Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree.
For an adventurous Christmas, try dogsledding in Breckenridge, Colorado, or be mesmerized by a million twinkling lights in Macon, Georgia. You might even encounter Santa himself in North Pole, Alaska.
- Breckenridge, Colorado: Dogsledding.
- Macon, Georgia: A million twinkling lights.
- North Pole, Alaska: Visit Santa.
McAdenville, North Carolina transforms into Christmas Town USA, while Leavenworth, Washington offers stunning illuminations. For a tranquil holiday escape, consider Ogunquit, Maine.
- McAdenville, North Carolina: Christmas Town USA.
- Leavenworth, Washington: Stunning illuminations.
- Ogunquit, Maine: Tranquil holiday.
Experience a unique Danish-style Christmas in Solvang, California, or enjoy captivating holiday shows in Park City, Utah.
- Solvang, California: Danish-style Christmas.
- Park City, Utah: Captivating holiday shows.
Iconic Christmas Destinations and Activities
Looking for a touch of Christmas magic? Explore these enchanting destinations:
- Chicago, Illinois: Immerse yourself in the festive cheer of the Christkindlmarket.
- Macon, Georgia: Witness the city twinkle with a million enchanting lights.
- Breckenridge, Colorado: Embark on an exhilarating dogsledding adventure.
- Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Explore the unique charm of Christmas City Village.
- Washington, D.C.: Admire the majestic National Christmas Tree.
- North Pole, Alaska: Meet Santa Claus himself at the Santa Claus House.
- McAdenville, North Carolina: Experience the transformation into Christmas Town USA.
- Leavenworth, Washington: Be captivated by breathtaking illuminations.
- Ogunquit, Maine: Enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating Christmas retreat.
- Solvang, California: Celebrate a Danish-style Christmas.
Park City, Utah: Delight in festive shows and embrace the holiday spirit.
Chicago: Experience the Christkindlmarket
Experience the magic of Chicago’s Christkindlmarket, a festive celebration of German tradition. Discover unique handcrafted treasures and savor delicious food and warm drinks, embracing the holiday spirit.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Discover the Christmas City Village
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known as “Christmas City,” is home to the German-inspired Christmas City Village. It’s famous for its festive decorations and holiday events, attracting many visitors looking to experience the Christmas spirit.
Washington, DC: Visit the National Christmas Tree
A magnificent evergreen graces the Ellipse, just south of the White House, each year. This National Christmas Tree is the centerpiece of the Pathway of Peace.
The Pathway of Peace is lined with 56 smaller, individually decorated trees. These represent each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia, their ornaments showcasing the nation’s diverse beauty.
Breckenridge, CO: Enjoy Dogsledding Tours
Experience the thrill of dogsledding in Breckenridge, Colorado’s breathtaking winter landscapes. This unique adventure offers a thrilling ride through snowy trails, perfectly embodying the town’s festive Christmas spirit for an unforgettable experience.
Macon, Georgia: Marvel at a Million Holiday Lights
During the holidays, Macon, Georgia transforms into a radiant spectacle. Downtown twinkles with over a million lights, creating a truly captivating Christmas display.
North Pole, Alaska: Meet Santa at the Santa Claus House
Experience the magic of the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska, and enjoy a special visit with Santa himself.
McAdenville, North Carolina: Explore Christmas Town USA
Each Christmas, McAdenville, North Carolina, transforms into a radiant spectacle known as Christmas Town USA. Twinkling lights and festive decorations adorn every corner, creating a truly magical experience that captivates crowds of visitors.
Leavenworth, Washington: Admire the Beautiful Christmas Lights
Leavenworth, Washington, transforms into a charming Bavarian Christmas village each year during the Christmas Lighting Festival. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the town, creating a festive atmosphere. Visitors enjoy cheerful caroling and admire the elaborate decorations, and unique artisan booths offer a chance to discover one-of-a-kind gifts.
Ogunquit, Maine: Savor a Peaceful Holiday Experience
Experience a serene Christmas by the sea in Ogunquit, Maine, where festive celebrations add to the tranquil holiday atmosphere.
Solvang, California: Enjoy a Danish-Style Holiday Celebration
Experience a unique Danish Christmas celebration in Solvang, California.
Park City, Utah: Sing Along to Festive Shows
Park City, Utah, ignites the holiday season with joyous sing-alongs, brightening the atmosphere and filling everyone with festive cheer.
Discovering Hidden Gems for Christmas Travel
Looking for a classic, charming holiday experience? Small towns offer an abundance of festive cheer. Woodstock, Vermont, epitomizes New England charm with its twinkling town square and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Durango, Colorado, offers a magical Polar Express train ride, perfect for families. Nevada City, California transforms into a Victorian wonderland, complete with costumed carolers strolling past unique shops. These towns offer cozy, authentic Christmas experiences you won’t soon forget.Prefer a warmer Christmas? Consider these unique destinations. San Diego hosts December Nights, featuring international food and entertainment. St. Augustine, Florida, dazzles with its Nights of Lights, illuminating the historic district with millions of twinkling bulbs. These destinations offer festive cheer alongside pleasant weather, making for a memorable holiday experience.
Charming Small Towns with Big Holiday Spirit
Looking for a festive getaway? Explore these enchanting Christmas towns:
- Woodstock, Vermont: experience the charm of Wassail Weekend.
- McAdenville, North Carolina: witness the dazzling transformation into Christmas Town USA.
- Leavenworth, Washington: indulge in Bavarian cheer.
- Nevada City, California: relive Victorian traditions.
- Durango, Colorado: embark on a magical Polar Express railway adventure.
- Natchitoches, Louisiana: be mesmerized by the sparkle of the Festival of Lights.
- Asheville, North Carolina: at the Grove Park Inn, admire edible artistry at the National Gingerbread House Competition.
Warm Weather Destinations for a Unique Christmas
San Diego offers a unique Christmas experience, blending sunny beaches with festive cheer.
Honolulu provides a distinctive Hawaiian holiday, complete with surfing Santas and tropical festivities.
For a relaxed Christmas escape, Key West beckons with warm weather and unique celebrations.
Embracing the Holiday Spirit in the US
Seeking family fun? Visit enchanting Christmas towns like Leavenworth, Washington, and McAdenville, North Carolina, for magical experiences.
Looking for unique traditions? Experience San Diego’s dazzling Festival of Lights or savor New Orleans’ time-honored Reveillon dinners.
Prefer urban delights? Ice skate at Rockefeller Center in New York City or admire the twinkling lights along San Antonio’s River Walk.
Enjoy charming Christmas markets? Don’t miss Chicago’s renowned Christkindlmarket or the festive atmosphere of Asheville, North Carolina.
Winter Wonderlands and Festive Markets
Experience the magic of winter wonderlands and festive markets. Charming stalls overflow with unique gifts and seasonal treats. Enjoy live music and embrace the enchanting holiday atmosphere as you explore. Everywhere you look, elaborate decorations sparkle, and the festive food and drinks are a delight. Many markets offer special events, from ice skating to carol singing, adding to the celebratory spirit. These markets offer a distinctive way to experience the holidays.
Family-Friendly Activities and Events
Ice skating, dazzling lights, and festive markets create a magical holiday atmosphere. Families embrace cherished traditions by gathering for carols, parades, and enchanting tree-lighting ceremonies.
Decorating gingerbread houses and visiting Santa are experiences that build lasting memories. Holiday shows and Christmas concerts add to the festive cheer.
Attending a religious service offers a moment of reflection during the holidays. Many venues host unique workshops, crafting sessions, and captivating storytelling events to enrich holiday experiences.
Enchanting Christmas Towns to Visit
Looking for a unique Christmas getaway? Explore these enchanting destinations:
For a Traditional Christmas:
- Experience the German-inspired Christkindlmarket in Chicago, illinois.
- Explore the charming Christmas City Village in Bethlehem, pennsylvania.
- Witness the grandeur of the National Christmas Tree in Washington, d.c.
For a Unique Christmas:
- Visit the Santa Claus House in North Pole, alaska.
- Experience the magic of Christmas Town USA in McAdenville, north carolina.
- Enjoy the Danish traditions of Solvang, california.
For an Adventurous Christmas:
- Go dogsledding in Breckenridge, colorado.
For a Festive Christmas:
- See the dazzling light display in Macon, georgia.
- Enjoy festive shows in Park City, utah.
- Admire the breathtaking lights of Leavenworth, washington.
For a Quiet Christmas:
- Seek a peaceful celebration in Ogunquit, maine.
