10 Best Places to Spend Christmas in the U.S.

Searching for top Christmas getaway spots this year? From snow-covered villages that feel like they’re straight out of a holiday movie to tropical destinations where you can celebrate on the beach, this expert-curated list features the top Christmas getaways for 2025. Each destination was selected based on seasonal atmosphere, festive events, cultural charm, and traveler feedback to ensure a magical and memorable holiday experience.

1. Leavenworth, Washington

Tucked into the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transforms into a snow-globe-worthy village every December, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in the U.S. Designed to mirror a Bavarian alpine town, its half-timbered buildings, snowy peaks, and glowing Christmas lights create a picture-perfect holiday scene.

During the season, the town hosts the famous Village of Lights festival, illuminating downtown with over 500,000 twinkling lights. Carolers roam the streets, chestnuts roast on open fires, and horse-drawn sleighs whisk visitors through the snow-dusted valley. For families, the Nutcracker Museum and Santa meet-and-greets offer classic Christmas magic.

2. New York City, New York

Christmas in New York City is timeless. The massive Rockefeller Center tree, holiday window displays, and skating rinks bring festive magic to every corner. From the Radio City Christmas Spectacular to carriage rides in Central Park, the city delivers holiday cheer on a grand scale.

Markets at Bryant Park and Union Square, plus light shows at Saks and Hudson Yards, make it a top pick for those seeking a classic city Christmas.

3. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Nicknamed “Christmas City USA,” Bethlehem offers old-world charm with festive authenticity. Its Christkindlmarkt features handmade gifts, live music, and glowing holiday decor rooted in Moravian tradition.

Candlelit strolls, charming historic inns, and the nation’s oldest bookstore lend a nostalgic charm, turning this quaint town into a standout destination for a heartfelt Christmas escape.

4. Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a Christmas with rich culture and warm Southwestern charm, Santa Fe delivers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. The glow of paper lanterns dances off adobe walls as the comforting smell of burning piñon fills the winter night.

The highlight is the Canyon Road Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve, a peaceful stroll through galleries and historic streets lined with candles, carolers, and bonfires. Native American dances, festive markets, and traditional foods like biscochitos add local flavor.

5. Park City, Utah

If your ideal Christmas includes snow-covered streets, ski slopes, and cozy mountain charm, Park City is one of the best places in the U.S. to celebrate the holiday. The town sparkles with lights, and Main Street feels like a snow globe come to life.

The signature Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Park City Mountain is a must-see, where skiers glide down the slopes holding torches against the night sky. Holiday concerts, sleigh rides, and high-end lodges round out the festive vibe.

6. Chicago, Illinois

With festive markets, lakefront lights, and snowy skylines, Chicago brings big-city cheer with a classic Midwestern touch. It’s one of the best places to spend Christmas in the U.S. for travelers who want tradition, culture, and winter magic in one.

The city’s beloved Christkindlmarket brings German holiday spirit downtown, while Millennium Park hosts ice skating beneath the city’s iconic skyline. The Magnificent Mile lights up with over one million bulbs, and holiday trains, indoor gardens, and museum displays keep the season bright, even when it’s freezing.

7. Williamsburg, Virginia

For a Christmas steeped in colonial charm and American history, Williamsburg offers a truly immersive holiday experience. It's one of the best places in the U.S. to celebrate Christmas if you’re drawn to tradition and storytelling.

Colonial Williamsburg lights up with candlelit reenactments, fife-and-drum parades, and handcrafted 18th-century decorations. Visitors can stroll cobblestone streets, watch historic trades in action, and enjoy the Grand Illumination, a spectacular fireworks and lighting show.

8. Aspen, Colorado

For a luxurious and snow-filled holiday escape, Aspen delivers Christmas at its most magical. This Rocky Mountain town offers pristine slopes, five-star lodges, and festive streets lined with lights, making it one of the best U.S. destinations for a white Christmas.

Beyond skiing, Aspen hosts 12 Days of Aspen, a celebration filled with concerts, kids’ activities, and visits from Santa. Chic boutiques, cozy après-ski lounges, and elegant holiday dinners add to the upscale experience.

9. Savannah, Georgia

If you prefer a milder Christmas with historic charm, Savannah offers a warm and elegant holiday season. The city’s oak trees draped in Spanish moss take on a festive glow with lights and garlands, creating a storybook Southern setting.

Visitors can tour candlelit mansions, enjoy riverfront boat parades, and join holiday trolley rides through the historic district. The Plant Riverside District comes alive for the holidays with festive waterfront markets, spirited live music, and seasonal celebrations that capture the charm of Christmas by the river.

10. Branson, Missouri

Known for its over-the-top holiday spirit, Branson transforms into a Christmas wonderland that families love. With millions of lights, live shows, and festive attractions, it’s easily one of the best Christmas vacation spots in the U.S. for entertainment lovers.

The highlight is Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas,” where 6.5 million twinkling lights, a massive Christmas tree, and dazzling Broadway-style holiday shows create a magical winter wonderland. The entire town joins in with drive-through light displays, Christmas parades, and faith-based performances.