Here are the Christmas destinations in the USA, chosen for American travellers. These destinations go all out for the holidays with lights, markets and festive traditions.
Christmas destinations in the USA
1. New York City
New York City packs world-famous museums, Broadway theatres, iconic skyline views and food from every corner of the globe into five boroughs. It rewards first-timers and repeat visitors alike, as long as you plan around neighbourhoods rather than trying to see everything at once. Read our New York City travel guide.
- Best time: April to June and September to early December
- Getting there: About 4 hours from Boston by train or car; 3 hours from Washington, DC on Amtrak Acela
- Don’t miss: Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- Mid-range hotels: $260–450 a night
2. Chicago
Chicago is a city of bold architecture, a sparkling lakefront, world-class museums and deep-dish pizza, with neighbourhoods full of blues clubs and restaurants. Read our Chicago travel guide.
- Best time: May to October
- Getting there: About 1.5 hours to Milwaukee; 5 hours to Detroit
- Don’t miss: Chicago Architecture Center river cruise, Millennium Park and Cloud Gate and Art Institute of Chicago
- Mid-range hotels: $180–300 a night
3. Charleston
Charleston is a beautifully preserved Southern city of cobblestone streets, pastel houses, plantations and some of the best food in the country. Read our Charleston travel guide.
- Best time: March to May and September to November
- Getting there: About 2 hours to Savannah
- Don’t miss: Rainbow Row, The Battery and Fort Sumter National Monument
- Mid-range hotels: $260–450 a night
4. Savannah
Savannah is a romantic Southern city of 22 leafy squares, Spanish moss, historic houses and a relaxed riverfront. Read our Savannah travel guide.
- Best time: March to May and October to November
- Getting there: About 2 hours to Charleston
- Don’t miss: Historic squares, Forsyth Park and River Street
- Mid-range hotels: $180–300 a night
For the luxury traveller
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Partner links: these go to our sister review sites, which may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
5. Santa Fe
Santa Fe, founded in 1610, is the oldest state capital in the US, known for adobe architecture, art galleries and New Mexican cuisine. Read our Santa Fe travel guide.
- Best time: September to October; December for festive luminarias
- Getting there: About 1 hour from Albuquerque
- Don’t miss: Santa Fe Plaza, Canyon Road and Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Mid-range hotels: $180–300 a night
6. Boston
Boston is a walkable city of colonial history, top universities, seafood and sports, and a gateway to New England’s coast and autumn colours. Read our Boston travel guide.
- Best time: May to October; late September to October for foliage
- Getting there: About 4 hours to New York; 1.5 hours to Cape Cod
- Don’t miss: Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market and Fenway Park
- Mid-range hotels: $260–450 a night
7. Leavenworth, Washington
A Bavarian-style village with lights.
8. Woodstock, Vermont
Classic New England Christmas.
9. St. Augustine, Florida
Nights of Lights.
10. Solvang, California
Danish village.
Holiday tips
Book early, as December weekends sell out.
How to choose
Start with when you can travel and how you like to spend your days. Some destinations on this list shine in summer, others in shoulder season; some suit active travellers, others are made for slow days and good food. Pick one or two that match your style rather than trying to see everything, and read the linked guides for timing, costs and where to stay.
How we chose
We picked destinations that consistently impress first-time and returning visitors, balanced famous names with lesser-known gems, and considered access, value, seasonality and the quality of the experience on the ground. Prices, opening dates and reservation rules change, so confirm the details before booking.
Planning tips for your trip
- ID for flights: Domestic flights require a REAL ID-compliant licence or another accepted ID such as a passport. See our guide to REAL ID and TSA rules.
- Money: Sales tax is added at the register and varies by state and city; tipping 18–20% at sit-down restaurants is expected.
- Insurance: Your health plan may have limited out-of-network cover in another state, and trip-cancellation cover is worth having for expensive bookings, especially in hurricane season.
- Driving: Most visitors drive; rental cars are widely available, and a US licence is all you need. Gas prices vary widely by state; California and Hawaii are usually the most expensive.
- Saving money: our budget vacation and cheapest places to travel guides have dozens of practical ideas.
What a trip costs
Typical spending per person per day, excluding flights:
| Travel style | Per person per day | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $120–$180 | motel or hostel, casual meals, self-drive or transit |
| Mid-range | $250–$400 | good hotel, sit-down meals, some tours |
| Luxury | $600–$1,200 | resort or boutique hotel, fine dining, private tours |
Prices rise in peak season and on holiday weekends, and fall sharply in the shoulder seasons.
Travelling responsibly
Follow Leave No Trace principles: stay on marked trails, pack out everything you bring in, and never feed wildlife. Support locally owned restaurants, guides and shops, and visit popular places early or late to spread out the crowds. In busy parks, use shuttles where they exist to cut traffic and parking pressure.
Safety basics
Carry water and layers on outdoor outings, check weather and road conditions before long drives, and tell someone your plans in remote areas, where mobile coverage can be patchy. In cities, use normal precautions with valuables at night. The emergency number is 911.
Travel in style
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A refined weekender is perfect for two-night escapes. - Premium gifts for travellers Opulique
Gifts for the traveller in your life.
Partner links: these go to our sister review sites, which may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best choice on this list?
It depends on your travel style, but New York City is a standout for most travellers.
When should I go?
Winter, from December to March.
How many days do I need?
Plan at least two to three days per destination.
Are these good for families?
Most are; check each guide for family tips.
How much should I budget?
Mid-range travellers typically spend $250–$400 per person per day.
Plan the rest of your trip
- New York City Travel Guide: Neighbourhoods, Top Sights and Tips
- Chicago Travel Guide: Architecture, Food and Neighbourhoods
- Charleston Travel Guide: History, Food and Beaches
- Savannah Travel Guide: Squares, Food and Day Trips
- How to Plan a Budget Vacation in the USA: 25 Money-Saving Tips