Looking for the best Christmas vacations in the US? We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the most magical, festive places you can visit in the US this year for an unforgettable holiday.
12 Best Christmas Vacations in the US
While many locations in America transform for the holidays, some towns and cities go the extra mile. Those are the ones we’ve highlighted below. In no particular order, these are the best Christmas towns in the US!
New York City, New York
Best for: City lovers
When to visit: Mid-November to early January
Experiencing Christmas in the city that never sleeps is a trip you’ll never forget.
New York often tops the list of the best places to spend Christmas in the US because of its famously magical, bustling atmosphere. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the ice skating rink in Central Park, New York transforms into one big holiday wonderland that draws visitors from all over the world.
Top attractions:
- Attending Broadway holiday shows
- Holiday shopping on Fifth Avenue
- Ice skating in Central Park
Leavenworth, Washington
Best for: European small-town charm
When to visit: Late November to late December
If you want the European Christmas market vibe in the US, Leavenworth, Washington, delivers it beautifully. This Bavarian-inspired village is picturesque and cozy for families. Snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, and German holiday treats in the markets give it a unique vibe for a Christmas vacation in the US.
Top attractions:
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Visiting the Leavenworth Christmas Market
- Skiing and snowboarding
Aspen, Colorado
Best for: Luxury skiers
When to visit: December
Skiing in the legendary Aspen is one of the best ways to spend Christmas in the US if you love the outdoors. Expect fresh, fluffy snowfall, glamorous chalets, and world-class ski resorts. It’s very popular during Christmas and New Year’s, so book early!
Top attractions:
- Winter hiking and snowshoeing
- Apres-ski activities like cozy fireside drinks and live entertainment
- Skiing or snowboarding at Aspen’s world-class resorts
Williamsburg, Virginia
Best for: History buffs
When to visit: Mid-November to early January
The colonial buildings and 18th-century-style decor in Williamsburg, Virginia, will take you back in time this Christmas. From festive music and carolers to stunning architecture – it’s a peek into American history and a chance to celebrate Christmas like it’s 1799.
Top attractions:
- Visiting Colonial Williamsburg for 18th-century Christmas festivities
- Attending Christmas performances and carolers
- Shopping at the Williamsburg Christmas Market
Charleston, South Carolina
Best for: Southern charm
When to visit: Mid-November to December
If you want slightly warmer weather this Christmas, Charleston is a charming destination. The holiday lights give the historic architecture a festive glow, and you’ll love experiencing Southern hospitality during the winter months.
Top attractions:
- Taking a holiday carriage ride through the city
- Exploring the historic downtown area decorated for the holidays
- Touring the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park
Chicago, Illinois
Best for: Christmas shopping
When to visit: Mid-December to early January
The Windy City becomes snowy and festive during the holiday season. You’ll love the vibrant lights and expansive shopping opportunities, including the iconic German Christmas Market. There are also great festive theater performances and family-friendly events.
Top attractions:
- Ice skating at Millennium Park
- Visiting the German Christmas market (Christkindlmarket)
- Holiday shopping on the Magnificent Mile
North Pole, Alaska
Best for: Adventure seekers
When to visit: December
The North Pole, Alaska, is the perfect Christmas destination in the US. Here, you’ll find Santa’s House, real reindeer, and gorgeous Christmas decorations. It’s extremely cold, so you’ll need to prepare appropriately. But if you dress warmly, this is an incredible festive adventure.
If you’re lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights!
Top attractions:
- Meeting Santa
- Reindeer viewing and winter wildlife excursions
- Watching the Northern Lights
Branson, Missouri
Best for: Live family entertainment
When to visit: December to early January
The live performances during Christmas in Branson, Missouri, make it a fun place for the whole family. Silver Dollar City theme park hosts a light show, ice skating, and many other events. If you want a family-friendly Christmas vacation, Branson is a top choice.
Top attractions:
- Visiting Silver Dollar City’s Christmas Festival
- Enjoying live holiday music performances
- Exploring the town’s museums and shows
Park City, Utah
Best for: Thrill seekers
When to visit: Mid-December to early January
A trip to Park City, Utah, is one of the best Christmas vacations in the US if you want to try winter sports. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and ice skating are all popular here. The ski-town vibes are friendly and cozy, making for a unique, thrilling Christmas getaway.
Top attractions:
- Skiing and snowboarding at the Park City Mountain Resort
- Ice skating and snowshoeing
- Apres-ski activities at local bars and restaurants
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Best for: Art lovers
When to visit: Mid to late December
Santa Fe is a unique place to visit during December. While you might not get the same snowy vistas as other Christmas towns, the city comes alive with lights, and local artists transform the area. The annual Las Posadas procession is the town’s centerpiece nativity event, honoring Santa Fe’s Hispanic history.
Top attractions:
- Shopping for Native American arts and crafts
- Viewing the Las Posadas procession and local holiday traditions
- Enjoying the vibrant arts scene and gallery exhibitions
San Antonio, Texas
Best for: Warm-weather travelers
When to visit: Late November to early January
If you dislike the cold, San Antonio is a great alternative. You can visit a number of local Christmas markets, and the San Antonio River Walk features Luminaries (traditional Mexican Christmas lanterns) that create a magical holiday experience like no other.
Top attractions:
- Strolling along the River Walk with holiday lights
- Attending the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias
- Exploring the city’s vibrant local Christmas markets
Macon, Georgia
Best for: A quieter Christmas
When to visit: Mid-November to December
Macon offers a Christmassy holiday without the crowds if you’re after some peace and quiet this year. The light shows and beautifully decorated homes give it a whimsical charm that is hard to find in larger towns and cities.
Top attractions:
- Visiting museums and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
- Strolling through historic neighborhoods decorated for the holidays
- Touring the magical Christmas light displays
How to plan your Christmas Vacation in the US
Now that we’ve highlighted the best Christmas towns in the US, here’s how to make the most of your festive getaway:
Choose your location(s)
Pick the destination that’s most attractive and feasible for you. For example, flights to New York are frequent and convenient, while a trip to the North Pole might require more extensive planning.
If you want to visit more than one place, consider how you’ll travel between cities. The US is huge so you may have to take long coaches, trains, or flights to get from one place to another.
Make a realistic budget
Your Christmas vacation budget should include:
- Accommodation
- Flights and ground transportation
- Souvenirs and gifts
- Activities
- Live performances
You can use Google, first-hand blogs, Reddit, and Facebook groups to get an idea of average prices. We also suggest booking your tickets for activities in advance to save time and money.
Tip: Overestimate your budget to cover any surprise expenses.
Find centrally located accommodation
When visiting somewhere new at Christmastime, staying close to the city center is more relaxing. This will give you better access to the festive activities downtown.
If you’re staying further out, keep in mind that some of these towns aren’t great for public transportation. The freezing temperatures in some places can also be bad for walking, especially if you have young children. With that in mind, consider pre-booking a private transfer with a reliable company like Welcome Pickups. That way, you don’t have to worry about public transport and can focus on enjoying your holiday.
Plan your Christmassy itinerary
With so much to explore, it’s worth researching the events and activities on offer. To make the most of your Christmas vacation in the US, focus on what you and your loved ones value most. If you love to hit the slopes, ensure you reserve your spot at a top ski resort early. Likewise, if shopping is a priority, ensure you know the opening times and busy periods for the local malls and Christmas markets.
We also suggest booking any live performances beforehand since the demand is high. That could include festive theater shows, light displays, cultural events, tours, and art exhibitions.
