There’s no place like home for holidays, but for a lot of Americans and international travelers, winter is the time to get away from all the daily rigors of life. For adventurers who are willing to miss out on the traditional ‘home for holidays’ scene, there are many Christmas getaways in the U.S. From snowy valleys and balmy beaches to urban wonderlands and adventure spots, the U.S. has an array of winter destinations. Whether you are looking to escape the cold weather or looking for a small town with high Christmas spirit, here’s some inspiration for you. Here are 14 must-visit Christmas vacation spots in the U.S.
North Pole, Alaska
In the North Pole, Christmas comes alive after the annual North Pole Christmas Ice Contest. A 15-minutes’ drive south of Fairbanks, the North Pole with all its decorations and activities, keeps the Christmas spirit alive all year-round. A drive down the streets of Santa Clause Lane, Mistletoe Lane and Kris Kringle will make you fall in love with this winter wonderland.
Andalusia, Alabama
Looking for snow in the South? Look no further than Andalusia. You can witness Andalusia’s historic courthouse transforming into a winter wonderland during the month of December. The weather is going to be warm, but you don’t have to miss out on all the fun and frolic. You can enjoy the spectacular snow show and explore the Candyland village while sipping on a hot latte in the afternoon.
Mount Washington Valley
Want to try some adventure this winter season? Then, Mount Washington is the place to be. At its center is the North Conway, one of the best ski towns in the U.S. There are 13 ski resorts here. This place is also a great option for people who love canopy tours, snowshoeing and zip lining.
Grand Canyon
How about celebrating Christmas in a cabin perched next to the canyon rim? Hike down the magnificent canyon and take a day trip to The Wave. Catch a Cirque Show in Las Vegas and watch the dolphins play. Enjoy your Christmas dinner at a grand restaurant near the historic El Tovar Lodge.
Cocoa Beach
Perfectly placed near the east of Orlando, Cocoa Beach has access to rocket launches, golf courses, the world’s largest community-built zoo, and many other happening beaches. This place is popular for its annual Surfing Santa event. If you are here for Christmas, do not miss this show where you can witness more than 300 Santas entertaining around 4,000 people.
Solvang
A 17-minute drive from Santa Barbara, Solang is a Danish-style community with countless charming streets and great architecture. The town hosts Julefest in the month of December marking the beginning of Christmas celebrations here. Guests can listen to live holiday music and take part in the Santa Sprint, while they holiday at Solvang.
San Diego
In San Diego, December is one of the sunniest months in the year. But, that doesn’t mean that the place lacks any of the Christmas fun. From balloon parades and ice-skating adventures to shopping and watching the Santa surf, you’ll have a lot to do in San Diego during this season.
Colorado Spring
Anybody will fall in love with the unique holiday cheer in Colorado Springs. From magical snow-capped peaks and mountain zoos to an array of holiday resorts and Santa express trains, this place has it all. The city is also home to North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Track Santa program. On Christmas Eve, NORAD tracks Santa Claus as he leaves the North Pole, entertaining children around the world. Colorado is definitely one of the most popular Christmas getaways in the U.S.
Bardstown
Bardstown is a historic little town popularly known as the Most Beautiful Small Town in America. You can enjoy the mansion tours, holiday-themed plays by the hometown drama troupe and join the gang of roaming carolers during Christmas here.
Myrtle Beach
If you take your Christmas shopping seriously, head to Myrtle Beach. Its great weather and a host of festive activities make this beach paradise one of the best Christmas destinations in the U.S. Vacationers can also take advantage of the Christmas deals from the shops along the Grand Strand or witness the South’s grandest Christmas show at the Alabama Theatre.
Paso Robles, CA
In the weeks leading up to the holidays, Paso Robles comes alive and offers an array of activities and events to help you get into the holiday spirit. You can shop for handmade artisan goods in the Holiday Craft Bazaar or watch the Holiday lighting ceremony of Downtown Paso Robles.
Gettysburg, PA
Gettysburg is a year-round destination with a wide range of events and attractions throughout the holiday season. The beginning of Christmas celebrations is marked with the annual Gettysburg Christmas Parade. The celebrations will continue for 4 weeks with open houses, holiday displays, concerts, and great decorations throughout the town till New Year.
Kauai
Palm trees are sure to outnumber Christmas trees in this sea paradise, but for people who like to lounge on the sand or surf on the waves, this place is the ideal Christmas getaway. But that doesn’t mean Kauai is short on Christmas festivities. One can attend the Kauai Festival of Lights at the Historic County Building in Lihue or take part in the 20th Annual Waimea Lighted Christmas Parade. For people who want to stay away from all the festivities, the quaint beaches have sufficient resorts.
New York
New York city is gorgeous throughout the year, but it is especially beautiful during the Christmas holidays. Manhattan is the most popular place for Christmas shopping as you can find a lot of unique gifts there. The metropolis boasts of many traditions, such as Christmas-themed windows and giant decorated pine trees. Live performances abound during this time and people flock in for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular show.
It’s always magical to explore new places for the most wonderful time of the year. Plan a trip right away to one of these destinations to celebrate a merry Christmas! Book your hotels via Reservations.com today.
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