Table of Contents
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by visiting some of the most festive destinations in the United States. Whether you dream of the glitz and glamour of a big city, a cozy small-town Christmas straight out of a Hallmark movie, or a Bavarian-style holiday village, there’s a place for every Yuletide style. Let’s explore ten incredible destinations across the USA where you can truly experience the magic of Christmas.
1. New York City, NY: The Ultimate Christmas Extravaganza
If there’s one city that knows how to do Christmas on a grand scale, it’s New York City. The Big Apple transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a mix of iconic landmarks and festive activities.
Highlights:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: The centerpiece of NYC’s holiday celebrations, this massive tree is decorated with over 50,000 LED lights and crowned with a stunning Swarovski star designed by Daniel Libeskind.
- Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at the Rockefeller rink or Bryant Park’s Winter Village, which also features 180 holiday-themed shops and food kiosks.
- Dyker Heights Decorations: Head to Brooklyn to see homes decked out in jaw-dropping displays of lights, inflatable Santas, and holiday scenes.
- Holiday Train Show at NYBG: The New York Botanical Garden’s enchanting train show features intricate miniature trains chugging through replicas of NYC landmarks, accompanied by the glowing spectacle of NYBG GLOW.
New York City during Christmas offers a magical experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
2. Burlington, VT: A Holiday Wonderland in New England
Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Burlington exudes charm and coziness during the holiday season. Its small-town vibe, paired with festive decorations, creates a picture-perfect Christmas setting.
Highlights:
- Church Street Marketplace: This pedestrian street comes alive with colorful lights, festive window displays, and live carolers.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: At the heart of the marketplace, a grand Christmas tree sparkles with thousands of lights.
- Hanukkah Celebrations: A nine-foot menorah is lit on the first night of Hanukkah, bringing the community together.
- Santa Visits: Kids can meet Santa and share their holiday wishes while enjoying the holiday cheer in the city.
Burlington’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a top destination for a classic holiday experience.
3. Asheville, NC: Gilded Age Christmas Splendor
Asheville is home to the famous Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion that turns into a holiday dream during Christmas.
Highlights:
- Biltmore Estate: This French Renaissance-style mansion boasts 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces, and extravagant holiday decorations. The 35-foot Christmas tree in the banquet hall is a must-see.
- Holiday Lights: Stroll through the estate’s gardens illuminated with festive lights.
- Hallmark Movie Magic: The estate was featured in the Hallmark movie A Biltmore Christmas, adding to its holiday allure.
Asheville combines historical grandeur with modern holiday charm, offering something unique for visitors.
4. Natchitoches, LA: The Festival Capital of Louisiana
Known as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches takes holiday celebrations to another level with its six-week Christmas Festival.
Highlights:
- Festival of Lights: Thousands of lights illuminate the downtown district and Cane River Lake.
- Historic Home Tours: Explore beautifully decorated historic homes with holiday themes.
- Live Music and Fireworks: Enjoy live performances and spectacular fireworks displays every Saturday night.
- Christmas Gala: Northwestern State University hosts a holiday gala, adding to the festive spirit.
Natchitoches offers a blend of tradition, culture, and holiday cheer that’s hard to beat.
5. Branson, MO: The Family-Friendly Christmas Capital
Branson is known for its over-the-top holiday celebrations, making it a go-to destination for families.
Highlights:
- Silver Dollar City: This theme park’s ‘An Old Time Christmas’ features an eight-story Christmas tree, live nativity scenes, and performances of A Christmas Carol.
- Drive-Through Light Displays: Multiple locations offer dazzling light shows.
- Polar Express Train Ride: Experience a magical train journey inspired by the beloved story.
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede: Enjoy a holiday-themed dinner show with impressive horsemanship and a live nativity.
Branson’s festive energy makes it a perfect destination for creating lasting holiday memories.
6. North Pole, AK: The Ultimate Christmas Destination
If you’re looking for the most authentic Christmas experience, North Pole, Alaska, is the place to be.
Highlights:
- Santa Claus House: A year-round attraction where visitors can meet the “real” Santa, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy holiday treats.
- Antler Academy: Visit Santa’s reindeer and learn about these magical creatures.
- 42-Foot Santa Statue: Snap a picture with this giant Santa, a symbol of the town’s holiday spirit.
North Pole, Alaska, is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit, no matter the time of year.
7. Leavenworth, WA: A Bavarian-Style Christmas Village
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style town that turns into a Christmas village during the holidays.
Highlights:
- Christmas Lighting Festival: The entire town is adorned with festive lights, creating a magical ambiance.
- Amtrak Empire Builder: Skip the snowy roads and take this scenic train ride to Leavenworth.
- Gingerbread Exhibits: Marvel at intricately designed gingerbread creations.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy carolers, holiday plays, and visits with Santa.
Leavenworth offers a unique blend of European charm and American holiday traditions.
8. Duluth, MN: A Winter Wonderland on Lake Superior
Duluth offers a mix of traditional and modern holiday celebrations, making it an ideal destination for Christmas lovers.
Highlights:
- Bentleyville Tour of Lights: The largest holiday light display in the U.S. features millions of lights and festive music.
- Christmas Tree Train: Ride the North Shore Scenic Railroad to pick out your perfect tree.
- Holiday Performances: Catch The Nutcracker: A Duluth Tale or enjoy a humorous twist with A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol.
- Pepperkakebyen: Explore this massive gingerbread village at the Nordic Center.
Duluth’s festive events and snowy backdrop create a quintessential Christmas experience.
9. Myrtle Beach, SC: A Coastal Christmas
Myrtle Beach may be known for its sandy shores, but during the holidays, it transforms into a glowing wonderland.
Highlights:
- Nights of a Thousand Candles: Brookgreen Gardens lights up with thousands of candles and millions of twinkling lights.
- Live Music: Local artists perform holiday classics, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Artisan Exhibitions: Browse handmade holiday crafts and artwork.
Myrtle Beach offers a unique mix of coastal charm and holiday cheer.
10. Franklin, TN: A Dickensian Holiday Celebration
Step back in time to the Victorian era with Franklin’s annual Dickens of a Christmas Festival.
Highlights:
- Character Strolls: Meet Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and other beloved Dickens characters as they roam the streets.
- KidZone: Families can enjoy crafts, games, and holiday treats.
- Whiskey Lounge: Adults can warm up with festive drinks.
- Live Performances: Watch actors bring scenes from A Christmas Carol to life.
Franklin’s blend of history and holiday festivities makes it a truly unique destination.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Holiday Vibe
Whether you prefer the bright lights of New York City, the historical charm of Franklin, or the snowy Bavarian vibes of Leavenworth, there’s a Christmas destination for everyone in the USA. Each location offers unique traditions, breathtaking displays, and activities that capture the magic of the holiday season. So, pack your bags, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit this Christmas!
