10 of the Most Christmas-y Places to Go in the US
The holiday season in the United States is a time when cities and towns transform into winter wonderlands adorned with twinkling lights and elaborate decorations. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, here are 10 of the most Christmas-y destinations in the United States to make your season merry and bright:
1. New York City, New York: A Christmas Extravaganza Start with the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, made famous in many movies, but notably, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Follow that with strolling along Fifth Avenue to check out the elaborate window displays, Saks is amazing! Get tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and see the world famous Rockettes. Ice skate at Bryant Park or take a stroll through Central Park for a truly festive experience.
2. Asheville, North Carolina: A Mountain Christmas Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a charming and cozy Christmas experience. The Biltmore Estate is adorned with lights, and the historic Biltmore Village transforms into a storybook setting for you to wander the quaint cobblestone streets. Experience the holiday events and artisan markets.
3. Leavenworth, Washington: Bavarian Christmas Charm This village in the Washington Cascade Mountains transforms into a Bavarian-inspired Christmas wonderland. Half-timbered buildings are draped in lights, and the snowy backdrop adds to the charm. Enjoy sleigh rides, carolers, Santa photos, crafts, and an authentic holiday experience.
4. Branson, Missouri: Ozark Mountain Christmas Branson becomes a festive haven in the Ozarks during the holiday season. The Branson Old Time Christmas features a lights and parades, and the city's theaters host special live Christmas shows. Don't miss the drive-through light displays and the festive Silver Dollar City theme park.
5. Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Hospitality for the Holidays Charleston combines its historic charm with holiday cheer during Christmas. The historic district is adorned with lights, and the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park is a must-see with millions of twinkling lights and Santa visits available.
6. Santa Claus, Indiana: Christmas All Year Round Embrace the holiday spirit year-round in Santa Claus, Indiana. Roast chestnuts over an open fire at Santa's Candy Castle, and make sure to visit the Santa Claus Museum. It's a destination where it's Christmas every day!
7. Taos, New Mexico: Luminarias and Farolitos Experience a unique Christmas celebration at Yuletide in Taos with its enchanting luminarias and farolitos lighting up the adobe buildings. Torchlight Parades and Fireworks are showcased throughout November and December. The Taos Pueblo's Christmas Eve procession is a centuries-old tradition that adds a cultural touch to the holiday festivities.
8. Park City, Utah: Ski Resort Christmas For a winter wonderland with a touch of luxury, visit Park City during the holidays. The snow-covered streets, holiday markets, and the Deer Valley Resort's torchlight parade create a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of the majestic Wasatch Mountains. Not only can you ski, but you can dogsled, ice skate, sleigh ride and more!
9. Natchitoches, Louisiana: Festival of Lights Louisiana's oldest city, Natchitoches, hosts one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country. The Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights features a dazzling light display along the Cane River, fireworks, and a festive holiday spirit. Enjoy live music, kids activities and more!
10. Annapolis, Maryland: Colonial Christmas Charm Annapolis, with its colonial architecture, offers a Christmas experience steeped in history. The Lights on the Bay drive through light show is sure to please. Enjoy the Midnight Madness shopping event with musical performances to entertain as you show, the Annual Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade with more than 30 decorated yachts, and the festively decorated streets of the Historic District.
These 10 Christmas-y destinations in the United States offer a range of differing holiday experiences, from snowy mountain retreats to charming coastal celebrations. Whichever destination you choose, you're sure to find the magic of the season in every corner of the country. Happy Travels!
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