10 Best Christmas Holiday Destinations in the USA That Outshine Santa’s Workshop
Remember those childhood winters when the holidays felt larger than life? The lights seemed brighter, the snow deeper, and every corner held a bit of magic where carolers songs echo in the distance.
That feeling doesn’t have to stay in the past. These are some of the best Christmas Holiday Destinations in the USA that have bottled up the spirit of your favorite festive memories and went above and beyond to create scenes you imagine from a Hallmark movie.
1. Greenville, South Carolina
The holidays transform Greenville into a lively wonderland with its Winter Wonderland at Ice on Main in the heart of downtown. The sidewalks are lined with beautifully decorated trees; everyone you meet is friendly and filled with Christmas cheer.
Check out the Rockefeller Center ice skating replica and the local gingerbread exhibit. You can satisfy your sweet tooth without some Grinch-inspired popcorn at Poppington’s.
2. New York City, New York
New York City at Christmas feels like the center of the holiday universe. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a must-see, surrounded by ice skaters gliding under twinkling lights. Window displays at Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue turn shopping into a magical experience.
If you’ve never seen the Radio City Rockettes in person, the Christmas show is one of the best. I also finally caught a showing of The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center with my mom.
Afterward, you can cozy up at a fireplace bar or head to Dyker Heights for fantastic light displays.
3. Solvang, California
Solvang is one of the most unique places to celebrate in the US, as it comes with a Danish-inspired twist.
Julefest, an annual month-long celebration, includes events like the traditional tree lighting and parades. The town’s windmills and European-style streets look even more enchanting when decked out for the season.
Walk down Copenhagen Drive to see the wooden shoe shop and the artfully decorated storefronts. Alisal Road also has beautifully decorated shops, and a light show set to music in Solvang Park.
4. McAdenville, North Carolina: Christmas Town USA
For 11 months out of the year, MacAdenville, North Carolina, a small town just west of Charlotte, goes by its usual name. But come December, it transforms into Christmas Town, USA.
McAdenville earns its nickname with a dazzling display of holiday lights seen across nearly every home and tree. The annual tradition, stretching back decades, attracts visitors from across the country.
A walk around the lake showcases a colorful 75-foot fountain surrounded by red, white, and green Christmas trees. Families will appreciate the free admission to the event.
5. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago shines during the holidays with its impressive displays and iconic events. The Christkindlmarket, a German-style holiday market, sells unique gifts and delicious seasonal treats like mulled wine and roasted nuts.
Go ice skating at the Millenium Park rink and grab a selfie with the Millenium Park Christmas tree. Then, take a tour of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and see the 50 trees decorated to celebrate Christmas around the world.
Lincoln Park ZooLights is a fun way to see the animals AND more than 2.5 million lights.
6. Vail, Colorado
Vail feels like a postcard-perfect European holiday destination with its snow-covered streets and festive events. Skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes during the day, while evenings offer cozy fire pits and live music.
Warm up after a day on the slopes with a steaming mug of Haute Chocolate from the Four Seasons, the most decadent hot chocolate you’ve ever had.
The Vail Lantern Walk is a magical event where visitors carry glowing lanterns through town. Don’t miss Vail Apres, a celebration of the winter holidays where you’ll find a silent disco, visits with Santa and his reindeer, ice skating shows, sleigh rides, and a Christmas market.
7. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital celebrates the holidays with grandeur and tradition. The National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse near the White House draws crowds with its beauty and nightly performances.
The monuments and the National Zoo, with more than 500,000 lights and lanterns, are all lit up for the season. Union Station, with a giant tree and holiday model train displays, is another must-see.
The Downtown Holiday Market is in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and there is a Christkindlemarket at the Heurich House Museum.
8. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Christmas and chocolate, what could be better? Hershey lives up to its sweet reputation with Hersheypark Christmas Candylane during the holidays. Hershey Gardens has a Christmas tree showcase you won’t want to miss, with each tree decorated by a local artist.
The Hershey Sweet Lights display should also be on your itinerary, with more than 2 miles of wooded trails to drive down featuring more than 600 animated and illuminated displays.
9. Andalusia, Alabama
Andalusia, a small town in Alabama, hosts the ultimate Christmas celebration known as Christmas in Candyland. Besides thousands of twinkling Christmas lights and themed decorated cottages sponsored by local businesses, you’ll also find an ice skating rink and snow tubing, yes, snow tubing in Alabama!
The Christmas in Candyland parade brings festive energy with floats, music, and plenty of cheer. Visitors can enjoy the nightly tree-lighting ceremony, which kicks off a host of local events.
10. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll is the island’s hallmark event, where Santa arrives by boat to greet the crowd. Cobblestone streets lined with decorated storefronts create a charming holiday setting.
You won’t want to miss the Christmas Stroll marketplace, carolers decked out in Victorian clothing, and a talking Christmas tree. Carolers and live music performances add a festive touch to the downtown area.
Allison Manning
Allison Manning is the creative mind behind Simply Stunning Content. With more than 20 years of writing experience under her belt, she is a master of creating captivating content that connects with audiences of all types. When she’s not working on new content you can find her cooking, reading, or listening to a very eclectic library of music.
When she’s not working, she prioritizes her family above everything else. Whether it’s spending quality time with her loving husband, three amazing kids, or her faithful dog, family is where she finds her joy and inspiration. She strives to make every piece of content she creates simply stunning.
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