If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, cozy cocoa moments, or sunny escapes, this list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. is your holiday bucket list.
These spots deliver seasonal spirit in full, 100% of the time.
Keep reading for the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S.
New York City, New York
Christmas in New York feels like holiday movie material (because it is).
New York City tops every list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S.
The Rockefeller Center tree glows above the ice rink while holiday window displays turn Fifth Avenue into a sparkling runway.
Shop Bryant Park’s Winter Village, shop at Union Square’s market, and catch the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.
How to get there:
- Book your flight to NYC before the end of October to lock in better deals and avoid last-minute price hikes.
- Choose a departure on Christmas Day or early in the week before the holiday rush for some of the lowest fares.
Where to stay:
- The Plaza Hotel (Luxury): Iconic NYC and featured in Home Alone 2, The Plaza transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with a massive Christmas tree and Fifth Avenue holiday displays steps away.
- Bryant Park Hotel (Mid-Range): Overlooking Bryant Park’s Winter Village, with stunning views of the ice rink and trees, plus easy access to Midtown’s best holiday attractions.
- The Jane Hotel (Budget): A historic, affordable stay in the West Village with cozy cabin-style rooms and quick subway access to all of Manhattan’s top Christmas sights. I LOVE the Jane as a budget option in NYC!
Read
Where to go Wine Tasting in New York
The Everything Guide to Times Square
Branson, Missouri
Branson belongs on any list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. for its over-the-top holiday celebrations.
Called America’s Christmas Tree City, Branson lights up with millions of bulbs, themed shows, and parades.
The Silver Dollar City (Branson’s #1 attraction) has five million lights, Broadway-style performances, and nightly tree lightings.
Drive the Branson Trail of Lights or enjoy the Adoration Parade.
With cozy cabins, live country music, and family attractions everywhere you look, Branson is a wholesome Christmas experience straight from a holiday movie.
How to get there:
- Book by early October and look for mid-week departures.
- Fly into Branson (BKG) for the closest access, or consider Springfield‑Branson National Airport (SGF), 50 miles away, if you find way cheaper fares.
Where to stay:
- Chateau on the Lake Resort (Luxury): Overlooks Table Rock Lake and hosts a yearly Christmas tree lighting, seasonal brunches, and holiday events, minutes from Silver Dollar City.
- Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel (Mid-Range): Centrally located by Branson Landing with easy access to shopping, dining, and the downtown Christmas parade, plus rooms overlooking the lake.
- Best Western Center Pointe Center Pointe Inn (Budget): Affordable stay near and a short drive to Branson’s top holiday light tours, PLUS indoor and outdoor pools.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. if you love snow, skiing, and upscale vibes.
The mountain town transforms into a winter postcard with decorated chalets and après-ski lounges.
Spend mornings on the slopes, afternoons strolling through twinkling downtown streets, and evenings by the fire with mulled wine.
Check out the 12 Days of Aspen celebration, which has concerts, ice skating, and fireworks over the peaks.
How to get there:
- Flying directly into Aspen (ASE) puts you in town within minutes. Flying into Denver (DEN) usually saves you $$$, but adds a 3.5–4 hour drive to Aspen.
Where to Stay:
- The Little Nell (Luxury): Aspen’s only ski-in/ski-out five-star hotel with direct access to Aspen Mountain, luxury dining, and events.
- Hotel Jerome (Mid-Range): A historic downtown landmark featuring elegant holiday décor, cozy fireside lounges, and easy access to Aspen’s shops.
- St. Moritz Lodge & Condominiums (Budget): One of Aspen’s most affordable options, offering hostel-style rooms and condos just a short walk from downtown.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S., which is much more budget-friendly compared to Aspen.
Ride the Polar Express train through snowy canyons, shop historic Main Avenue, and sip cocoa by the Animas River.
You can also try:
- Leadville: While there’s snow and winter scenery (and cute older buildings!), It’s not as high-cost as some big ski resorts, making it easier on the budget. P.S. My favorite place to eat in the whole state is the Silver Dollar Saloon in Leadville, don’t skip it!
- Breckenridge: Amazing hikes, 10/10 breweries, and super cute town.
- Glenwood Springs is good for a family winter vacation because it’s a cute, classic Colorado town that isn’t ultra pricey.
- Salida: is a lesser-known gem for winter travel. It’s got that mountain-town charm, snow is possible, but it doesn’t feel overrun.
How to get there:
- For the best prices, book in early fall and compare flying into Durango (DRO) versus larger airports like Denver (DEN) or Albuquerque (ABQ).
- Flying into Denver is usually cheaper, and Durango is a 6 hour drive away, while Albuquerque is a 3.5-hour drive.
Read: Northern Colorado Road Trip
Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu belongs on any list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. thanks to its perfect weather and local traditions.
Waikiki Beach sparkles with Christmas lights and surfboards covered in garlands. You can also watch the Honolulu City Lights Parade or visit Pearl Harbor.
Mega wave surfing competitions:
On the island of Oahu during December the famed Vans Pipe Masters takes place at the Banzai Pipeline (Ehukai Beach Park) where surfers battle massive barrels often ranging from 16 to 45 feet or more.
How to get there:
- For the best prices to Oahu (HNL), start tracking 3–6 months out and consider flying on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.
- Check flights to the West Coast: LAX, SFO, OAK, SJC, SAN, SEA, PDX. Then book a separate hop to Honolulu.
- Look for overnight flights, compare cash vs. miles, and stack airline card credits to offset prices.
Where to stay:
- The Royal Hawaiian (Luxury): Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this beachfront resort in Waikiki offers historic elegance, holiday décor, and direct access to festive Christmas events by the ocean.
- The Laylow, Autograph Collection (Mid-Range): A stylish boutique hotel in Waikiki with a laid-back Hawaiian vibe, modern rooms, poolside events, and easy access to holiday shopping and seasonal beachfront fun.
- Queen Kapiolani Hotel (Budget): Just one block from Waikiki Beach, which offers affordable pricing, easy access to the shoreline, and Christmas sunsets.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. for charm and Southern warmth.
The historic district glows with lanterns and wreaths, and carriage rides roll past grand antebellum homes.
Hit the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park or tour decorated plantations like Middleton Place.
How to get there:
- Track prices 2–3 months out, set Google Flights alerts, and aim for Tue–Wed travel or Christmas Day.
- Compare airports CHS with SAV (2 hrs), MYR (2 hrs), CAE (2 hrs), or CLT (3 hrs).
Where to stay:
- The Charleston Place (Luxury): 5-star hotel in the historic district with grand holiday décor, nightly “snow” in the lobby, and direct access to King Street shopping.
- The Restoration Hotel (Mid-Range): Cute stay in downtown Charleston, walkable to the Christmas lights and festivities.
- Fulton Lane Inn (Budget): Affordable, centrally-located hotel near Charleston City Market with free breakfast.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem is known as “Christmas City,” and it’s packed with lights and good stuff.
The Christkindlmarkt features handmade crafts, carolers, and hot cider, while the historic Moravian buildings shimmer with candlelight.
The whole town feels timeless and peaceful, perfect for anyone who wants a cozy, storybook Northeastern Christmas.
How to get there:
- Set price alerts 2–3 months out, aim for Tue–Wed or Christmas Day, and book early to avoid peak surges.
- Fly into Lehigh Valley (ABE) or get better prices in Philadelphia (PHL, 1 hr) or Newark (EWR, 1.5 hrs).
Where to stay:
- Historic Hotel Bethlehem (Luxury): Elegantly located in downtown Bethlehem, this upscale hotel features timeless décor, holiday-themed dinners, and immediate access to Christmas markets and displays.
- Wind Creek Bethlehem (Mid-Range): A centrally located resort near SteelStacks, it offers modern rooms, on-site dining and entertainment, and easy walking access to downtown.
- The View Inn & Suites (Budget): One of the most affordable stays in the area, this hotel provides basic but clean accommodations within a short drive of downtown Bethlehem.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is the best place to visit for Christmas in the U.S. for its mix of music, culture, and New Orleans-ishness.
Stroll through the French Quarter lit with garlands, see the Celebration in the Oaks at City Park, and enjoy jazz brunches that keep spirits high.
The Creole Réveillon dinners are a holiday tradition worth booking early.
With streetcar rides, riverfront lights, and soulful energy, New Orleans does Christmas in a totally unique way.
How to get there:
- Set alerts 2–3 months out and target Tue–Wed flights into MSY; early December in New Orleans usually has very affordable hotels and airfare.
- Avoid spikes around the Sugar Bowl, Saints games, and New Year’s Eve.
Where to stay:
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans (Luxury): Located on Canal Street with over-the-top holiday decorations, a full spa, and easy walkability to Christmas events in the French Quarter.
- Hotel Monteleone (Mid-Range): A historic French Quarter landmark featuring the iconic Carousel Bar, comfy rooms, and close access to festive parades.
- Le Richelieu Hotel (Budget): A historic hotel in the French Quarter with charm, a saltwater pool, and more affordable rates. Read my unbiased review of Le Richelieu.
Read:
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches shines thanks to its famous Christmas Festival of Lights, a six-week celebration that fills the town with pure magic.
I repeat: This festival lasts 6 weeks.
Over 300,000 twinkling lights and 100 dazzling set pieces reflect across Cane River Lake, turning Louisiana’s oldest city into a glowing wonderland.
Expect parades, fireworks, carriage rides, and local food vendors serving Creole yummys. The festival blends small-town charm, Southern hospitality, and a deep sense of tradition, truly a 10/10.
How to get there:
- Set fares now and book by mid-October for the best deal; Shreveport (SHV) is your best bet, an hour away from Natchitoches.
Where to stay:
- Château Saint Denis Hotel (Luxury): In the heart of the historic district, expect upscale rooms and access to the riverfront and parade route during the Festival of Lights.
- Church Street Inn (Mid-Range): A charming downtown stay with renovated historic architecture, just steps from Front Street.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Natchitoches (Budget): An affordable stay on the edge of town with free breakfast and an easy drive into the main Christmas Festival areas.
Read: Best U.S. National Parks to Visit in the Winter
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. for its big-city energy wrapped in winter wonder.
The Christkindlmarket brings European charm with pretzels, ornaments, and mulled wine. Walk the Magnificent Mile under glowing trees, and ice skate at Millennium Park.
How to get there:
- Set alerts 2–3 months out and target Tue–Wed flights; early–mid December often has cheap flights to Chicago because winter cold reduces demand before the holiday week.
Where to stay:
- The Langham (Luxury): Five-star hotel on the Chicago River offering special holiday events and direct access to the Loop’s winter attractions.
- The Gwen (Mid-range): Stylish Art Deco hotel across from the Magnificent Mile holiday lights, perfect for Christmas shopping.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown/Magnificent Mile (Budget): Affordable rooms in the heart of downtown with free breakfast and walking distance to the Christkindlmarket and ice rink at Millennium Park.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is secretly one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. if you love history and holiday cheer.
Dilworth Park transforms into a winter village with skating, lights, and pop-up shops, super cute.
Visit Love Park for the Christmas Village inspired by Germany’s markets, or take a tour of Independence Hall lit up for the season.
Philly is an underrated Christmas treasure.
Note: I’m biased because I LOVE Philly.
How to get there:
- Set price alerts 2–3 months out, aim for Tue–Wed flights, and look at early–mid December when colder weather can lower demand before the holiday rush.
- You won’t have a problem finding affordable flights to Philly in December.
Where to stay:
- The Rittenhouse Hotel (Luxury): Five-star stay on Rittenhouse Square with holiday decorations, afternoon tea by the fireplace, and easy access to Philadelphia’s Christmas Village and ice rink.
- Notary Hotel (Mid-Range): Historic downtown hotel near City Hall offering modern rooms and walkable to Dilworth Park’s light show, markets, and skating.
- Alexander Inn (Budget): Affordable boutique hotel in Center City with free breakfast and a short walk to shopping, dining, and holiday attractions.
Read:
8 Best Hotels in Downtown Philly
Miami, Florida
Miami shines bright as one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. when you’d rather trade snow for the beach.
Palm trees glow with lights, and South Beach hosts festive boat parades. Head to Bayfront Park for Christmas on the Bay, explore Lincoln Road’s holiday markets, or relax at rooftop bars overlooking the ocean.
Miami proves Christmas can be just as fun in flip-flops.
How to get there:
- Book at least 2–3 months ahead, watch for deals in early December. Compare MIA with Fort Lauderdale (FLL), 40 minutes north.
- Flying into Fort Lauderdale often saves money, especially on budget airlines. Its Spirit’s home base, so they nearly always have good deals.
Where to stay:
- Fontainebleau Miami Beach (Luxury): Iconic oceanfront resort with lavish holiday décor and multiple pools.
- The Betsy Hotel (Mid-Range): Boutique South Beach hotel on Ocean Drive featuring festive rooftop events, beachfront access, and walking distance to holiday markets.
- Freehand Miami (Budget): Affordable stay in a restored Art Deco building with a lively courtyard, pool, and quick access to South Beach.
Read:
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs deserves a spot on the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. list for its warm weather and mid-century sparkle.
The Festival of Lights Parade fills the desert with color, while resorts host poolside holiday parties; you can also take a tram up Mount San Jacinto for snow views!
How to get there:
- Start tracking fares 3–4 months out, set weekday departure alerts, and aim for early December when ski-resort demand drops and flights into PSP often dip. Compare PSP with LAX, ONT, and BUR.
- Usually, I find that booking into a major LA airport and taking a short drive to Palm Springs is cheaper.
Where to stay:
- Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs (Luxury): Downtown high-rise with a rooftop pool and mountain views steps from Palm Canyon Drive, perfect for walking to the Festival of Lights Parade.
- Palm Mountain Resort & Spa (Mid-Range): Centrally located just off Palm Canyon Drive with easy access to shops, restaurants, and December festivities, plus a heated pool for cool desert nights.
- Best Western Plus Las Brisas (Budget): Value pick one block from Palm Canyon Drive with free breakfast and parking, great for affordable access to downtown lights and the parade route.
Solvang, California
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a real-life Christmas village, Solvang is calling your name. During Julefest, from November 28, 2025, through January 4, 2026, this Danish-style town turns into one of the Most Magical Christmas Towns in the World.
You’ll love wandering under twinkling lights, tasting Danish pastries, sipping local wine, and exploring festive shops filled. Enjoy parades, live music, and cozy celebrations all season long.
Don’t miss the Tree Lighting Weekend (December 5–7) for extra sparkle.
Other California Christmas ideas:
- Los Olivos: A wine-country village near Solvang that goes all-in with wreaths, tasting rooms, and cozy holiday charm.
- Julian: A cozy mountain town near San Diego known for apple pie, vintage shops, and light-covered storefronts that feel straight out of a snow globe.
- Bass Lake: Quiet lakeside cabins, forest trails, and festive lights near Yosemite without the big crowds.
- Big Bear Lake: A snowy alpine retreat with skiing, tubing, and a charming downtown decked out for the holidays.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: Its fairytale cottages and twinkling tree-lined streets make for a romantic Christmas escape.
- Ferndale: A Victorian village on the North Coast with one of California’s tallest living Christmas trees and a nostalgic holiday parade.
- Paso Robles: Known for Sensorio’s Field of Light and holiday wine tastings in the vineyards.
- Cambria: Home to the Cambria Christmas Market, a German-style event with tunnels of lights, crafts, and hot cider.
How to get there:
- Book 3–4 months ahead; fly into SBA (Santa Barbara, 35 min drive) or LAX (2 hour drive), since the small Santa Ynez airport is tiny (pricy).
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe glows with thousands of farolitos (paper lanterns) and luminarias lighting up adobe rooftops and winding streets.
The Canyon Road Walk on Christmas Eve is a must, with carolers, hot cider, and glowing art galleries welcoming visitors.
Local markets overflow with handmade ornaments, chili wreaths, and turquoise everything.
How to get there:
- Expect to find cheaper fares to Santa Fe (SAF), as round-trip deals have dipped under $250.
- I recommend flying into Albuquerque (ABQ), taking the 1-hour drive to Santa Fe.
Where to stay:
- La Fonda (Luxury): Historic hotel on Santa Fe Plaza with Southwestern architecture, festive farolito displays, and near the Canyon Road Christmas Eve Walk.
- The Governor’s Inn (Mid-Range): Central downtown stay offering complimentary breakfast, cozy décor with kiva fireplaces, and easy walking distance to holiday markets and museums.
- Pinon Court (Budget): Affordable option near the Plaza with free breakfast and on-site parking.
Read:
Guide to Canyon Road in Santa Fe
Virginia City, Nevada
Virginia City deserves a spot among the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. for its Old West charm mixed with holiday cheer.
The town’s Christmas on the Comstock festival runs all December, filling the streets with Victorian carolers, parades, and light displays sparkling against the historic wooden boardwalks.
Shop for handmade gifts in 19th-century saloons, ride the V&T Railroad’s Candy Cane Express, and sip hot cider.
How to get there:
- Set alerts 2–3 months out, target Tue–Wed flights, and look at early December.
- Fly into Reno (RNO) for the closest access, or compare cheaper fares into Sacramento (SMF) and drive about 2.5–3 hours to Virginia City.
Where to stay:
- Sugarloaf Mountain Motel (Luxury): Restored 19th-century property on C Street with historic charm and easy access to Christmas on the Comstock festivities.
- Silverland Inn & Suites (Mid-Range): Centrally located near downtown attractions; walkable to parades and holiday events.
- Virginia City Inn (Budget): Affordable lodging close to C Street featuring themed rooms, free parking, and close to local shops and Christmas celebrations.
Stowe, Vermont
Close your eyes and think “Christmas.”
That’s Stowe, Vermont.
Stowe earns its spot as one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S. with its cozy lodges and postcard-perfect scenery.
Go skiing, take a sleigh ride through pine forests, or browse local craft markets. Stowe’s downtown village glows with lights, and inns have fireside dinners with festive menus.
Stowe is a top pick for a traditional white Christmas.
How to get there:
- Set alerts 2–3 months ahead, aim for weekday flights in early December.
- Fly into Burlington (BTV) 40 minutes from Stowe or into Albany (ALB) or Boston (BOS).
Where to stay:
- The Lodge at Spruce Peak (Luxury): Gorgeous slopeside resort offering ski-in/ski-out access, ziplining, seasonal events, and mountain views near downtown Stowe.
- Green Mountain Inn (Mid-Range): Historic hotel in the heart of Stowe Village with cozy fireplaces, on-site dining, close to local shops, and Christmas festivities.
- Commodores Inn (Budget): Affordable family-friendly option near Main Street with free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a short drive to Stowe’s holiday lights and markets.
Prescott, Arizona
Prescott easily earns its reputation as one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S.
Officially designated “Arizona’s Christmas City” in 1989, Prescott delivers holiday charm straight out of a snow globe. The town’s lighting ceremony and dazzling displays run from late November through mid-January, filling Courthouse Plaza.
There’s also a Holiday Light Parade, festive carriage rides, and the lively Whiskey Row Boot Drop on New Year’s Eve.
Set in Arizona’s high country, Prescott often sees real snowfall, giving its historic downtown a cozy winter wonderland vibe.
How to get there:
- Set flight alerts 2–3 months out and favor Tues or Weds travel for the best deals.
- Fly into Prescott (PRC) for the closest access or into Phoenix (PHX) and drive 1.5-hours.
- Phoenix will almost always be cheaper.
Where to stay:
- Hassayampa Inn (Luxury): Historic Spanish-Colonial landmark on Gurley Street in downtown Prescott with grand holiday decorations connected to Courthouse Plaza.
- Hilton Garden Inn Prescott Downtown (Mid-Range): Modern downtown hotel steps from Whiskey Row offering easy walking access to Prescott’s Arizona’s Christmas City events.
- Hotel St. Michael (Budget): Affordable boutique stay on Whiskey Row blending historic character and value.
Park City, Utah
Park City is high on my list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S., thanks to its lively ski culture and cheerful Main Street.
The Snowfest celebration runs all December with parades, concerts, and Santa sightings on the slopes. Ski by day, enjoy cozy après-ski drinks by night, and take a scenic ride on the Town Lift covered in twinkle lights.
How to get there:
- Book 2–3 months out, target Tue–Thurs flights, and aim for early December, before holiday pricing.
- Fly into Salt Lake City (SLC), 45 minutes from Park City.
Where to stay:
- Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley (Luxury): Prestigious ski-in/ski-out resort near Park City Village.
- Treasure Mountain Inn (Mid-Range): Located at the top of Main Street in Park City Village, this locally run inn offers easy walkability to shops, restaurants, and December events.
- Hyatt Place Park City (Budget): Centrally located near Park City Mountain Resort, has a ski shuttle, hot tub, and outdoor pool!
Oxford, Mississippi
Known for its Holly Jolly Holidays festival, Oxford is a charming college town that transforms into a Christmas tale come to life.
Look out for tiny gnome villages around the historic Square.
The Peppermint Trail is a super unique event where visitors follow a red-and-white candied trail through local shops for peppermint-flavored treats, themed drinks etc.
With twinkling lights, cozy bookstores, and live music echoing through the streets, Oxford brings a creative, small-town magic to the holiday season.
How to get there:
- Set alerts 2–3 months ahead, aim for Tue–Thurs flights in early December; avoid Ole Miss graduation.
- Fly into Memphis (MEM) for the most options and lowest prices, then drive about 75 minutes to Oxford.
Where to stay:
- The Oliver Hotel (Luxury): Boutique hotel overlooking Oxford’s historic Square.
- Graduate by Hilton (Mid-Range): Downtown stay right on the Square with two restaurants. A short walk to Christmas Village events and seasonal music performances.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oxford (Budget): Affordable option near downtown with free breakfast and easy access to Oxford’s Peppermint Trail.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth might be the most magical pick on any list of the best places to visit for Christmas in the U.S.
The Bavarian-style village lights up with over half a million bulbs and nightly carolers. Sip glühwein at the Christmas market and visit a reindeer farm (like, with real reindeer).
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Leavenworth feels straight out of a European fairy tale.
How to get there:
- Fly into Seattle (SEA) and drive 2.5 hours via US-2; check road conditions in winter.
Where to stay:
- Posthotel Leavenworth (Luxury): Upscale, adults-focused spa resort along the river in downtown Leavenworth within easy reach of the town’s lights and Bavarian village décor.
- Hotel Leavenworth (Mid-Range): Boutique hotel located on Front Street in the heart of downtown.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Leavenworth (Budget): Comfortable and affordable hotel near the downtown core with free breakfast and easy access to the illuminated main street.
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Which of these places in the U.S will you visit for Christmas? Comment below and LMK!
Read:
Best Places to Visit in December on a Budget
