Christmas in the USA is a magical time filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and joyful celebrations. We’ve explored some of the best places to spend the holiday season across the country. From charming small towns to bustling cities, there are countless destinations that offer unique Christmas experiences.
As we travel through the USA, we’ve found that each place has its own special way of celebrating. Some towns go all out with parades and light displays, while others focus on cozy traditions and local charm. We’ve seen everything from Santa on horseback in Texas to winter wonderlands in Alaska.
We’re excited to share our top picks for Christmas destinations in the USA. These places offer a mix of holiday cheer, beautiful scenery, and fun activities for all ages. After exploring each spot, we’ll suggest a great hotel where you can stay and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Why the USA Shines During the Christmas Season
The United States turns up a notch every December. Towns and cities across the country go all out with festive decorations and lights. Many places host special events like tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and parades.
America’s diverse cultures bring unique Christmas traditions to different regions. In the Southwest, you might see luminarias lining walkways. New England towns often have charming historic decorations. Big cities dazzle with elaborate window displays and giant Christmas trees.
The giving spirit comes alive during the season. Toy drives, food donations, and volunteer events bring communities together. Many Americans open their homes to friends and family for warm holiday gatherings.
Christmas music fills the air in stores, on the radio, and at live performances. You can find holiday concerts, plays, and shows in most areas. Some cities even have outdoor ice skating rinks for a magical winter experience.
Iconic Christmas Destinations in the USA
1. New York City, New York
Why we love it: New York City is a magical place during Christmas. The city sparkles with lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
What to do there: Visit the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and go ice skating in Central Park. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. Stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the stunning window displays at department stores.
Where to stay: The Plaza Hotel offers a luxurious stay right next to Central Park. It’s perfect for experiencing the city’s holiday magic.
2. Aspen, Colorado
Why we love it: Aspen turns into a snowy paradise during Christmas. The mountain town offers a mix of outdoor activities and cozy indoor experiences.
What to do there: Hit the slopes for world-class skiing and snowboarding. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape. Enjoy the annual 12 Days of Aspen event with free ice skating, caroling, and cookie decorating.
Where to stay: The Little Nell is a ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain. It provides easy access to both the slopes and the town’s festive activities.
3. Chicago, Illinois
Why we love it: Chicago embraces the holiday spirit with enthusiasm. The city offers a blend of traditional and modern Christmas experiences.
What to do there: Visit the Christkindlmarket, a German-style Christmas market in Daley Plaza. See the giant Christmas tree at Millennium Park and go ice skating at the nearby rink. Take a stroll down the Magnificent Mile to see the festive lights.
Where to stay: The Peninsula Chicago is located right on the Magnificent Mile. It offers luxurious rooms and a prime location for holiday activities.
4. San Francisco, California
Why we love it: San Francisco might not have snow, but it makes up for it with unique Christmas traditions and beautiful decorations.
What to do there: See the giant Christmas tree and outdoor ice rink at Union Square. Visit the Dickens Christmas Fair for a Victorian-era holiday experience. Take a cruise on the bay to see the city’s skyline lit up for the holidays.
Where to stay: The Fairmont San Francisco is one of the best hotels in SF with stunning views of the city and bay. It’s known for its elaborate gingerbread house display during the holidays.
5. Las Vegas, Nevada
Why we love it: Las Vegas goes all out for Christmas, with each casino trying to outdo the others in holiday decorations and events.
What to do there: See the Bellagio Conservatory’s holiday display. Watch the outdoor light show at the Fremont Street Experience. Visit Santa at the Bass Pro Shops Winter Wonderland at the Silverton Casino.
Where to stay: The Bellagio offers a central location on the Strip and some of the best Christmas decorations in the city.
6. Orlando, Florida
Why we love it: Orlando brings Christmas magic to life with its theme parks and attractions. It’s a great place for families to celebrate the holidays, especially if you are looking for a warm place in January.
What to do there: Visit Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney World. See the Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios. Enjoy the ICE! attraction at Gaylord Palms Resort, featuring ice sculptures and slides.
Where to stay: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a luxurious stay with easy access to all of Disney World’s holiday festivities.
7. Branson, Missouri
Why we love it: Branson is known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason. The town goes all out with its holiday decorations and events.
What to do there: Visit Silver Dollar City for its An Old Time Christmas festival. Take a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway’s Polar Express Train Ride. See the Branson’s Gift of Lights drive-through light display.
Where to stay: Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa offers beautiful views of Table Rock Lake and easy access to Branson’s attractions.
8. Durango, Colorado
Why we love it: Durango offers a charming small-town Christmas experience with a stunning mountain backdrop.
What to do there: Take a ride on the Polar Express Train Ride at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Go skiing or snowboarding at Purgatory Resort. Enjoy the Noel Night celebration with carolers and holiday shopping.
Where to stay: The Strater Hotel is a historic hotel in downtown Durango. It’s decorated beautifully for Christmas and close to many holiday events.
9. Williamsburg, Virginia
Why we love it: Williamsburg offers a unique blend of colonial and modern Christmas traditions.
What to do there: Visit Colonial Williamsburg to see how Christmas was celebrated in the 18th century. Enjoy the Christmas Town event at Busch Gardens with its millions of lights. See the Grand Illumination fireworks display.
Where to stay: The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday events.
10. Park City, Utah
Why we love it: Park City combines world-class skiing with charming holiday traditions.
What to do there: Go skiing or snowboarding at Park City Mountain Resort. Take a sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. Enjoy the annual Electric Parade on Main Street.
Where to stay: Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley offers luxury accommodations with ski-in/ski-out access.
11. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Why we love it: Lake Tahoe offers a beautiful winter wonderland setting for Christmas celebrations.
What to do there: Go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many resorts. Take a scenic cruise on the lake to see the snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the Heavenly Holidays celebration with ice skating and live music.
Where to stay: The Landing Resort & Spa offers luxurious rooms with lake views and easy access to skiing and holiday events.
12. Anchorage, Alaska
Why we love it: Anchorage offers a true winter Christmas experience with a chance to see the Northern Lights.
What to do there: Visit the Alaska Zoo for its Zoo Lights display. Go dog sledding or cross-country skiing. Try to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Where to stay: The Hotel Captain Cook offers comfortable rooms in downtown Anchorage with views of the Cook Inlet or Chugach Mountains.
13. Leavenworth, Washington
Why we love it: This Bavarian-style village transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a truly unique and immersive holiday experience.
What to do there: Attend the Christmas Lighting Festival, where the entire town is illuminated with over half a million lights. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape. Visit the Nutcracker Museum and enjoy traditional German foods and drinks.
Where to stay: The Bavarian Lodge offers cozy accommodations with mountain views, within walking distance of the town’s main attractions, perfectly complementing Leavenworth’s festive atmosphere.
14. New Orleans, Louisiana
Why we love it: New Orleans offers a unique blend of holiday cheer and Southern charm, with its distinctive jazz-infused celebrations and historic French Quarter decorations.
What to do there: Enjoy the Celebration in the Oaks light display in City Park. Take a holiday home tour in the Garden District. Experience Reveillon dinners, a local Christmas tradition. Listen to caroling in Jackson Square or attend a Christmas concert at St. Louis Cathedral.
Where to stay: The Hotel Monteleone, a historic landmark in the French Quarter, offers luxurious accommodations and festive decorations, including a lobby display that captures the city’s holiday spirit.
15. St. Petersburg, Florida
Why we love it: St. Petersburg offers a warm, tropical Christmas experience with palm trees, beaches, and unique holiday events that blend Florida charm with festive cheer. It is one of the best warm winter destinations in December!
What to do there: Visit the Enchant Christmas light maze and market at Tropicana Field. Enjoy the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade in the bay. Explore the winter wonderland at the Sundial St. Pete, complete with “snow” flurries. Take a stroll through the Florida Botanical Gardens Holiday Lights event.
Where to stay: The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club offers luxury accommodations with waterfront views and festive holiday decorations, perfectly situated for exploring the city’s Christmas attractions.
Navigating USA Travel During the Holiday Season
Christmas travel in the USA can be busy but rewarding. Planning ahead and staying flexible will help you enjoy your holiday trip.
Best Booking Practices
Book flights and hotels early for the best deals. Prices often spike in December. We suggest looking 2-3 months ahead for flights. For hotels, book even earlier if possible.
Be flexible with dates. Flying on Christmas Day is often cheaper. Consider nearby airports too. They may have better prices or more options.
Sign up for airline and hotel loyalty programs. You might score upgrades or perks during busy times.
Use price tracking tools to watch for deals. Set alerts and be ready to book when prices drop.
Weather Considerations
Pack for cold in most of the country. Bring layers, a warm coat, gloves, and a hat. Snow is likely in northern states.
The South and Southwest are milder. You might only need a light jacket in places like Florida or Arizona.
Check weather forecasts often. Winter storms can cause travel delays. Have a backup plan just in case.
Consider travel insurance. It can help if bad weather ruins your plans.
Bring snow chains if you’re driving in mountain areas. Some roads require them.
Local Transportation Tips
Research public transit options before you go. Many cities have special holiday schedules. Ride-sharing services may have higher prices during peak times. Plan for this in your budget.
If renting a car, book early. Prices go up and options get limited close to Christmas However, in big cities, parking can be tough. Look for hotels with parking included or nearby garages.
Some towns offer free holiday shuttles to popular spots. Check local visitor websites for info.
Walking is often the best way to see holiday lights and decorations, so bring comfy shoes.
Remember that traveling during Christmas can be expensive in general, so make sure you are getting the best exchange rate for US dollars if you are coming from abroad!
Final Thoughts
The USA offers many amazing Christmas destinations. From small towns to big cities, there’s something for everyone. We’ve explored festive spots across the country with unique holiday charm.
Some places shine with dazzling light displays. Others transport you to a winter wonderland. Many feature special events and markets that bring holiday cheer.
Cozy inns, bustling shops, and seasonal treats add to the magic. Whether you want snow or sun, tradition or something new, you’ll find it here.
Pick a spot that matches your ideal Christmas vibe. Plan ahead for the best experience. Many popular destinations book up fast during the holidays!
Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! The money will help run this site! Thank you!
