The Christmas holidays are a time for creating lasting memories with family and friends. For many, that translates to a festive getaway filled with twinkling lights, Christmas cheer, and unique experiences.
If you are dreaming of a white Christmas spent soaking up the holiday spirit, the USA has plenty of them. We have researched various online forums and travel data to create a list of 12 Christmas towns in America that you should visit during Christmas.
Leavenworth, Washington
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transforms into a Bavarian wonderland during the holidays. Think strolling carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and over a million twinkling lights that adorn the shops and buildings.
While traveling through Leavenworth, you can check out the 500-year-old nutcrackers at the Nutcracker Museum. If you visit this Christmas town with kids, you can also book a sleigh ride for the whole family.
Santa Claus, Indiana
When the town is named Santa Claus, it has got to be a bustling one during Christmas. If you visit Santa Claus, Indiana, during the Christmas holidays, remember to visit Santa Claus Land, which has themed rides and attractions.
You can mail your letters to the North Pole at the Santa Claus post office or take a picture with the iconic 22-foot Santa statue. There are candy castles, live reindeer exhibitions, and a traditional chestnut roasting that helps you make the most out of the festive spirit.
Stowe, Vermont
For a quintessential New England Christmas experience, head to Stowe, Vermont. Mountains covered in snow and trees lit up with kids parading with lanterns on the streets make for some incredible festivity viewing in Stowe.
Charming villages lined with festive decorations and cozy cabins with crackling fireplaces add to the charm. You can even experience a live Santra stroll that helps out local businesses during Christmas.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Having a backdrop as stunning as the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge dazzles in its Christmas displays. Running from November to January, the Dollywood Smoky Mountain Christmas festival is an especially popular show with its millions of lights, live shows, and festive productions.
You can also take a scenic ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for breathtaking panoramic views of the town, celebrating the Christmas cheer.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride beckons for a luxurious Christmas escape with breathtaking scenery. This charming mountain town sees the Christmas spirit come to life every season, as it boasts world-class skiing, snowmobiling adventures, and upscale accommodations.
When you stroll through the festively decorated streets, breathe in the festive feeling and enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, among other activities. The city’s Victorian-era downtown buildings bring a mystique flavor to the Christmas charm.
Solvang, California
A Californian town inspired by Danish culture makes for a unique Christmas experience. Known for its Danish heritage, the beautiful city of Solvang transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and traditional Danish treats.
Enjoy a taste of Europe as you listen to the music and make a trip to the local wineries and bakeries. You can also participate in the Solvang Julefest Parade, which is a part of the month-long holiday celebrations in Solvang.
North Pole, Alaska
In many ways, North Pole, Alaska, celebrates Christmas all year round. However, festivities take center stage during the holiday season, as the town embraces its festive namesake with street lights shaped like candy canes, a Santa Claus House, and a reindeer farm.
Take scenic train rides along the city and experience dog sledding adventures and the breathtaking Alaskan winter landscapes.
Durango, Colorado
Not only is Durango an excellent destination for skiing, but it also offers the magical Polar Express train ride. This two-hour adventure makes you experience the North Pole in all its glory.
You can relive the Christmas story as the train winds through snowy landscapes, complete with hot chocolate and visits from Santa and his elves. Durango also boasts charming Victorian architecture, festive decorations, and opportunities for winter sports.
McAdenville, North Carolina
Nicknamed “Christmas Town USA,” McAdenville explodes with festive cheer during the Christmas holidays. Hundreds of evergreen trees are decorated with countless twinkling lights. It creates a true American Christmas spectacle that is bound to dazzle even the ones who are not easily impressed.
As you walk around the town, you will also get to experience horse-drawn carriage rides, among other holiday events.
St. Augustine, Florida
Both literally and figuratively, St. Augustine promises a white Christmas. The white sandy beaches of the coastal city let you escape the winter chill and enjoy a warm Christmas. This historic city boasts Spanish colonial architecture and festive decorations.
Boat tours along the illuminated Matanzas Bay, or even walks along the charming shops and restaurants and participating in a traditional Spanish Christmas party will help you explore the natural charm of this beach town.
Park City, Utah
Combine a winter wonderland escape with festive cheer in Park City, Utah. This world-renowned ski resort town offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities alongside charming Christmas markets, festive light displays, and holiday events. After a day out enjoying the festive spirit, do not forget to try the après-ski with hot cocoa by a fireplace.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Yet another Bavarian-themed town, Frankenmuth, is sure to leave you mesmerized with its scenic beauty during the Christmas season. This charming town boasts the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, with over five million ornaments and festive decorations. Enjoy strolling through the German Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt, as you sip hot spiced wine and indulge in traditional German treats.
