Christmas in the United States is a magical time of year, with countless cities and towns transforming into festive winter wonderlands. From iconic holiday traditions to enchanting light displays and snowy retreats, the country offers a variety of destinations that capture the Christmas spirit. Whether you prefer bustling cities, charming small towns, or scenic natural settings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA, perfect for those looking to celebrate in style. Each destination offers unique experiences, from Christmas markets to snowy landscapes, making it easy to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
New York City, New York
It’s hard to think about Christmas without imagining the magic of New York City. The Big Apple is famous for its iconic Christmas attractions, including the towering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and its ice-skating rink, which are must-see spots for anyone visiting the city during the holiday season. The extravagant window displays along Fifth Avenue and the festive spirit in Times Square add to the city’s holiday charm. Don’t miss the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the legendary Rockettes, a holiday tradition dating back to the 1930s.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular
- Ice-skating at Central Park
- Window displays on Fifth Avenue
Why Visit: NYC is an iconic Christmas destination where the festive spirit is on full display, and you can experience one-of-a-kind holiday traditions.
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Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is another fantastic destination for Christmas enthusiasts. The city boasts stunning holiday lights, festive markets, and a bustling downtown area that comes alive during the holiday season. Millennium Park features a large Christmas tree and an ice skating rink with the city skyline as a backdrop. Christkindlmarket, Chicago’s version of a traditional German Christmas market, is a must-visit for those who enjoy holiday shopping, delicious treats, and handcrafted goods.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Millennium Park Christmas tree
- Christkindlmarket
- Ice-skating at Maggie Daley Park
- Zoo lights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Why Visit: Chicago offers a mix of classic holiday charm and modern festivities, making it a great destination for families and couples alike.
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Aspen, Colorado
For a white Christmas, Aspen is the perfect winter escape. Known for its world-class skiing and luxury accommodations, Aspen is a picturesque mountain town that offers more than just winter sports. The town is decorated with twinkling lights, and you can enjoy sleigh rides, cozy fires, and hot cocoa in this idyllic winter wonderland. 12 Days of Aspen is a popular event, featuring holiday festivities such as concerts, outdoor movies, and special Christmas events.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- 12 Days of Aspen
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Sleigh rides
- Cozy lodges with fireplaces
Why Visit: Aspen is a dream destination for those who want a luxurious, snowy Christmas with plenty of outdoor activities and relaxation.
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Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking to escape the cold but still want to immerse yourself in Christmas magic, Orlando is the perfect choice. Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other theme parks, Orlando offers a magical holiday experience with parades, Christmas-themed shows, and decorations throughout the parks. Disney’s Magic Kingdom transforms into a holiday wonderland with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal is decked out for the season.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
- Universal’s Holiday Parade
Why Visit: Orlando is ideal for families with children, offering a warm-weather Christmas with all the fun and excitement of the world’s top theme parks.
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Leavenworth, Washington
For those looking for a quaint and cozy Christmas town, Leavenworth is a hidden gem in the state of Washington. This Bavarian-style village transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season, with charming streets lined with lights and festive decorations. The town’s Christmas Lighting Festival is the main attraction, where visitors can enjoy carolers, holiday performances, and visits from Santa. Leavenworth also has horse-drawn carriage rides, perfect for capturing that nostalgic Christmas feeling.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Christmas Lighting Festival
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Nutcracker Museum
- Festive Bavarian village atmosphere
Why Visit: Leavenworth offers a unique, small-town Christmas experience with European flair, perfect for a relaxing and picturesque holiday.
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Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Places to Visit During Christmas in USA (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania)
Known as “Christmas City,” Bethlehem lives up to its name during the holiday season. This charming town is steeped in holiday tradition, from its famous Bethlehem Christmas Market to its beautiful holiday lights. Bethlehem is also known for its Christkindlmarkt, a festive market with handcrafted gifts, live music, and delicious food. The town’s historical background adds a rich cultural dimension to your visit, making it feel like you’ve stepped back in time for a traditional Christmas.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Christkindlmarkt
- Bethlehem Christmas Market
- Live advent calendar
- Holiday lights walking tours
Why Visit: Bethlehem provides an authentic Christmas experience with a rich historical and cultural backdrop, perfect for history lovers and those who appreciate traditional holiday festivities.
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Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the heart of country music, offers a unique and musical twist on Christmas. Gaylord Opryland Resort is famous for its incredible holiday lights display and Christmas events, including ICE!, an interactive ice sculpture exhibit. Visitors can also enjoy Christmas concerts, including special performances at the Grand Opera. Nashville’s vibrant holiday spirit, combined with its lively music scene, makes it an exciting place to celebrate the holidays.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Gaylord Opryland Resort’s Christmas lights
- ICE! exhibit
- Grand Ole Opry Christmas concerts
- Holiday shopping in downtown Nashville
Why Visit: Nashville is perfect for those looking for a Christmas celebration filled with live music and Southern hospitality.
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Williamsburg, Virginia
For a historical Christmas experience, Williamsburg is a top destination. Known for its colonial history, Williamsburg offers a unique blend of traditional holiday celebrations and historical reenactments. Colonial Williamsburg lights up with festive decorations, and visitors can take part in candlelight tours and holiday-themed events. Busch Gardens Christmas Town is another popular attraction, featuring millions of lights, festive shows, and seasonal food.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Colonial Williamsburg Christmas celebrations
- Busch Gardens Christmas Town
- Holiday candlelight tours
- Traditional holiday markets
Why Visit: Williamsburg offers a historical and educational Christmas experience with plenty of festive fun for the whole family.
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Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is known for its distinctive cultural mix and artistic flair, and during Christmas, it transforms into a festive destination with unique Southwestern holiday traditions. Canyon Road Farolito Walk is a magical Christmas Eve tradition where thousands of farolitos (paper lanterns) line the streets. Visitors can enjoy holiday art shows, markets, and performances that showcase the area’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Canyon Road Farolito Walk
- Holiday art markets
- Santa Fe Plaza Christmas lights
- Native American dances and performances
Why Visit: Santa Fe offers a distinctive cultural Christmas experience with beautiful art, unique traditions, and a magical desert setting.
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Christmas Village at Bayou Bend in Houston
— Your Favorite Places In Houston (@YPHoustonTX) December 19, 2022
Discover an immersive Christmas experience at Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. A dazzling bridge brings you into a winter wonderland featuring thousands featuring thousands of lights
6003 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007 pic.twitter.com/E9rax0zPiC
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a vibrant city that offers plenty of festive activities during the holiday season. Union Square is the center of the city’s Christmas celebrations, featuring an impressive Christmas tree, ice-skating rink, and holiday shopping. Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 are also beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and displays. Visitors can take a holiday cruise along the San Francisco Bay or explore the city’s famous neighborhoods decked out in Christmas cheer.
Location:
Top Attractions:
- Union Square Christmas tree
- Ice-skating at Embarcadero Center
- Holiday lights at Pier 39
- Christmas cruises on the Bay
Why Visit: San Francisco offers a festive and bustling Christmas experience with a wide range of holiday activities set against the city’s iconic landmarks.
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FAQs
1. What are the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas?
Some of the best cities to visit during Christmas in the USA include New York City, Chicago, Orlando, and San Francisco.
2. Where can I experience a white Christmas in the USA?
Aspen, Colorado, and Leavenworth, Washington, are perfect destinations for a snowy, white Christmas.
3. Which US theme parks are best for Christmas celebrations?
Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando offer magical Christmas experiences with parades, shows, and festive decorations.
4. What small towns in the USA are known for Christmas festivities?
Leavenworth, Washington, and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, are charming small towns known for their Christmas festivals and holiday spirit.
5. Is there a warm destination in the USA for Christmas?
Yes, Orlando, Florida, is a great warm-weather destination for Christmas with plenty of holiday festivities in its theme parks.
