Experience the magic of the holiday season in these top U.S. Christmas destinations, with festive lights and parades! Discover hotels, dining, and fun activities!
1. Aspen, Colorado
For a cozy, snow-covered Christmas, Aspen is the perfect escape. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this ski town offers luxurious lodging, festive events, and plenty of winter activities.
What to Do:
- Hit the slopes for world-class skiing and snowboarding.
- Take a sleigh ride through the snowy wilderness.
- Attend the “12 Days of Aspen” festival, featuring concerts, holiday markets, and fireworks.
Where to Stay:
- Limelight Hotel Aspen – A luxury hotel with a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere.
- St Moritz Lodge and Condominiums – At the foot of Shadow Mountain, the hotel is 9 blocks from Aspen Ski Mountain.
Where to Eat:
- Element 47: Gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients.
- Matsuhisa Aspen: Fine Japanese cuisine in the heart of Aspen.
2. Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-inspired town transforms into a Christmas village, complete with snow-capped mountains and streets lined with twinkling lights.
Activities:
- Attend the Christmas Lighting Festival, where the entire town lights up at dusk.
- Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow.
- Enjoy sledding or snowshoeing in the surrounding areas.
Where to Stay:
- Blue Elk Inn: A charming hotel with a festive, alpine-inspired vibe.
- Adventurer’s escape at Icicle Village: Known for its mountain view.
Where to Eat:
- Andreas Keller Restaurant: Traditional German food with live music.
- Visconti’s Italian Restaurant: Cozy and perfect for a hearty winter meal.
3. Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for warm weather and festive fun, Orlando is a perfect destination. The theme parks go all out for Christmas, making it a magical experience for families.
Activities:
- Attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney World.
- Experience the Grinchmas celebration at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- Explore the Christmas displays and holiday lights at Leu Gardens.
Where to Stay:
- Conrad Orlando: Gorgeous holiday decorations and luxury amenities.
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando: A luxurious option with holiday-themed events and activities.
Where to Eat:
- Be Our Guest: Enjoy a holiday-themed dining experience at Magic Kingdom.
- The Boathouse at Disney Springs: A waterside restaurant with festive holiday décor
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe offers a unique blend of Native American, Mexican, and Spanish traditions, making Christmas here unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
Activities:
- Experience the Farolito Walk on Christmas Eve, with thousands of lanterns lighting the way through the historic district.
- Explore Canyon Road’s festive art galleries.
- Visit the Santa Fe Plaza, beautifully decorated for the season.
Where to Stay:
- Inn of the Five Graces: Luxurious and full of Santa Fe charm.
- La Fonda on the Plaza: Historic and perfectly located for holiday events.
Where to Eat:
5. Park City, Utah
Park City is a perfect destination for a snowy Christmas. With its world-class skiing and charming downtown area, this mountain town offers plenty of holiday spirit.
Activities:
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Park City Mountain Resort.
- Attend the Torchlight Parade on Christmas Eve.
- Shop along Historic Main Street, decked out in twinkling lights.
Where to Stay:
- The St. Regis Deer Valley: A luxurious, ski-in, ski-out resort with festive events and décor.
- Stein Eriksen Lodge: A cozy mountain lodge with holiday charm.
Where to Eat:
- Riverhorse on Main: Fine dining with a festive holiday atmosphere.
- High West Distillery & Saloon: Enjoy locally distilled spirits in a cozy, festive setting.
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy retreat or a warm-weather Christmas, these top U.S. destinations offer something for every type of holiday traveler. From luxurious hotels to festive events, these cities are sure to make your Christmas vacation unforgettable!
Still Travels 
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