Christmas magic happens when you trade ordinary celebrations for extraordinary destinations. It is where holiday lights sparkle against mountain peaks or historic streets decorated for the season.
From snow-covered mountain towns where skiing and hot cocoa become daily traditions to mild coastal cities where you stroll historic districts without freezing: America’s best Christmas destinations offer something for every family’s vision of the perfect holiday.
These handpicked destinations showcase the most festive cities and towns in the USA. It’s where Christmas spirit fills the air from Thanksgiving through New Year’s..
Best Christmas Getaway Destinations
Whether you’re seeking guaranteed snow for white Christmas dreams or warm weather escapes from winter cold, these locations feature vacation rentals ready to host your holiday celebration.
- Asheville, NC – Best for Blue Ridge Mountain holiday magic
- Breckenridge, CO – Perfect for snow-covered Christmas town vibes
- Nashville, TN – Great for music and festive city celebrations
- Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Best for alpine winter wonderland escapes
- Smoky Mountains, TN – Perfect for scenic mountain Christmas charm
- Coastal Charleston, SC – Great for mild winter Southern hospitality
- Austin, TX – Best for eclectic holiday markets and live music
- Park City, UT – Perfect for Olympic town skiing holidays
- Big Bear, CA – Great for Southern California mountain snow
- Hudson Valley, NY – Best for New England countryside charm
- Palm Springs, CA – Perfect for desert sunshine Christmas escapes
- Scottsdale, AZ – Great for warm-weather golf and hiking
- Sedona, AZ – Best for peaceful red rock holiday retreats
Asheville, NC
The Blue Ridge Mountains create the perfect backdrop for Christmas celebrations, where historic downtown streets glow with thousands of holiday lights.
The Biltmore Estate transforms into a winter wonderland with dozens of Christmas trees, elaborate decorations throughout its 250 rooms, and Candlelight Christmas Evenings featuring live music and dimmed romantic lighting.
Downtown Asheville’s independent shops sell handcrafted gifts from regional artists while local breweries serve seasonal beers perfect for après-hiking celebrations.
Grove Arcade’s holiday market brings local artisans together, selling unique gifts you won’t find at any mall. The Blue Ridge Parkway stays open for scenic winter drives when snow dusts the mountains, creating postcard views at every overlook.
Christmas concerts at the Diana Wortham Theatre and holiday productions at local venues keep the entertainment calendar full throughout December.
Asheville cabin rentals put you close to both downtown festivities and mountain peace. Properties range from romantic two-person retreats with hot tubs overlooking misty valleys to large family cabins sleeping 10+ guests with game rooms and spacious decks.
Many rentals feature fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens for holiday cooking, and proximity to hiking trails when families need outdoor time between celebrations.
Book your Asheville Christmas escape: Asheville Vacation Rentals
Breckenridge, CO
This historic mining town transforms into a real-life snow globe every December, where over 250,000 LED lights illuminate Main Street starting the first weekend of the month.
The Race of the Santas kicks off the season with hundreds of people dressed as Santa running down Main Street in one of Colorado’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Ullr Fest in mid-December honors the Norse god of snow with parades, the world’s longest shot-ski attempt, and a massive bonfire burning last year’s Christmas trees.
World-class skiing across five peaks satisfies everyone from first-timers to experts, while the Victorian downtown maintains that authentic small-town feel where shop owners greet you by name after just one visit.
Horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered valleys, dog sledding adventures, and ice skating under twinkling lights create those Christmas moments families remember forever. New Year’s Eve also brings a torchlight parade down the mountain that caps off the holiday season spectacularly.
Breckenridge vacation rentals range from ski-in/ski-out condos steps from lifts to spacious mountain homes with hot tubs and views of the Ten Mile Range.
Properties sleep anywhere from 4 to 20+ guests, making them perfect for family reunions or friend group celebrations.
Many rentals also include heated garage parking, boot dryers, and fully stocked kitchens that make extended stays comfortable.
Book your Breckenridge Christmas getaway: Breckenridge Vacation Rentals
Nashville, TN
Music City’s Christmas celebrations blend Southern hospitality with world-class entertainment, where honky-tonks deck their bars with lights and tinsel.
The Gaylord Opryland Resort’s ICE! exhibit features over 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures in a winter wonderland kept at 9 degrees.
Downtown’s Honky Tonk Christmas brings live music to every corner while the Grand Ole Opry hosts special holiday shows featuring country music legends and rising stars.
The Nashville Christmas Parade down Broadway showcases marching bands, elaborate floats, and performances that draw thousands to the streets.
Christmas markets pop up around the city selling local crafts, hot chocolate, and Southern treats like bourbon balls and pralines.
The Bluebird Cafe hosts intimate acoustic Christmas shows while larger venues feature full-production holiday concerts that showcase Nashville’s musical talent.
Nashville vacation rentals put you within walking distance of downtown’s festivities while providing quiet retreats after long days of exploring.
Properties range from modern condos in The Gulch to spacious homes in East Nashville’s artsy neighborhoods.
And many rentals feature rooftop decks with city views, full kitchens, and multiple bedrooms, perfect for groups wanting space to spread out.
Book your Nashville Christmas adventure: Nashville Vacation Rentals
Lake Tahoe, CA
North America’s largest alpine lake creates scenery that takes your breath away, even when you’ve seen photos a hundred times.
Multiple villages around the lake host tree lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and Christmas concerts throughout December.
Heavenly’s gondola lifts you to observation decks where views stretch across the entire basin, creating those “wow” moments that justify the ticket price even without skiing.
South Shore brings casino entertainment and Heavenly Village’s ice skating rink, while North Shore maintains quieter vibes in towns like Tahoe City and Truckee.
Snowshoeing through forest trails, sledding down resort hills, and warming up in lakefront restaurants with hot toddies fill days between skiing sessions.
The region’s Mediterranean-like climate means more sunshine than typical ski destinations, making even cold days feel pleasant for outdoor activities.
Lake Tahoe cabin rentals accommodate groups from intimate couples to extended families needing 8+ bedrooms.
Lakefront properties offer private beach access and boat docks (for summer visits) while mountain homes provide ski access and hot tubs with forest views.
Many rentals feature gourmet kitchens, multiple living areas, and outdoor fire pits perfect for s’mores under starry skies.
Book your Lake Tahoe Christmas vacation: Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals
Smoky Mountains, TN
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a stunning backdrop for Christmas celebrations, where Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge go all-out with millions of lights illuminating every surface.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas brings the theme park alive with incredible light displays, holiday shows, and seasonal treats that create magical evenings for all ages.
The Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights takes you through town viewing elaborate decorations from heated trolleys.
Pigeon Forge’s Winterfest extends the celebration through February with light displays that transform the parkway into a glowing wonderland.
Christmas parades, holiday concerts, and special performances at dinner theaters keep entertainment options plentiful throughout the season.
The mild winter weather means hiking trails stay accessible most days, allowing you to explore waterfalls and mountain vistas without summer’s crowds.
Smoky Mountains cabin rentals range from romantic two-person hideaways to massive lodges sleeping 20+ guests with game rooms, movie theaters, and multiple hot tubs.
Properties in Wears Valley offer peaceful seclusion, while Gatlinburg locations put you within walking distance of downtown festivities.
Many cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing mountain views, stone fireplaces, and fully equipped kitchens.
Book your Smoky Mountains Christmas retreat: Smoky Mountains Vacation Rentals
Coastal Charleston, SC
Charleston’s historic district transforms for Christmas, where gas lamps and magnolia wreaths create that classic Southern holiday atmosphere.
The Festival of Lights at James Island County Park features over 2 million lights creating 650+ displays you drive through while Christmas music plays on your car radio.
Marion Square hosts the Holiday Market of Charleston, where local artisans sell handcrafted gifts, specialty foods, and holiday decorations unique to the Lowcountry.
Historic home tours showcase how Charleston’s elite celebrated Christmas in centuries past with elaborate decorations, carolers in period costumes, and hot cider served in centuries-old mansions.
The mild winter weather means you stroll the historic district comfortably, shopping King Street boutiques and dining at award-winning restaurants without freezing.
Christmas boat parades light up Charleston Harbor while horse-drawn carriage tours through decorated streets create romantic evening activities.
Coastal Charleston vacation rentals include historic downtown properties within walking distance of festivities and beach houses on nearby islands for those wanting coastal views.
Properties range from Rainbow Row cottages to large estates sleeping extended families. Many rentals feature Southern porches perfect for morning coffee, updated kitchens, and access to Charleston’s famous beaches just minutes away.
Book your Charleston Christmas escape: Coastal Charleston Vacation Rentals
Austin, TX
This eclectic city celebrates Christmas with its unique, weird-and-wonderful style where traditional meets unconventional.
The Trail of Lights in Zilker Park features over 2 million lights, local food vendors, and live music performances, creating a free holiday experience beloved by locals and visitors.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar showcases work from over 175 artists selling handmade gifts in an old airplane hangar transformed into a festive marketplace.
Sixth Street bars deck themselves out with lights and decorations while maintaining that live music scene Austin’s famous for year-round.
The Armadillo Christmas Bazaar brings hundreds of artists together, selling everything from jewelry to sculptures, making gift shopping feel like an art gallery visit.
Food trucks serve everything from traditional tamales to fusion creations, while craft breweries offer seasonal beers perfect for Texas’s mild December weather.
Austin vacation rentals put you close to downtown festivities while providing modern amenities and the space families need.
Properties range from trendy East Austin bungalows to spacious South Congress homes with pools and outdoor entertaining areas.
Many rentals feature open floor plans, chef-worthy kitchens, and proximity to hiking trails when you need nature time between holiday activities.
Book your Austin Christmas adventure: Austin Vacation Rentals
Christmas Destinations Worth Exploring
Park City, UT
The 2002 Winter Olympics put this mountain town, Park City, on the global map, where two major ski resorts and historic Main Street create the perfect Christmas combination.
The town’s Victorian-era buildings, decorated with lights, maintain an authentic Old West character while Olympic Park offers bobsled rides and tours of facilities where athletes trained.
Big Bear, CA
Big Bear is Southern California’s closest reliable snow destination that sits just two hours from Los Angeles. This is where two ski resorts and a charming village create mountain Christmas magic.
The Christmas Boat Parade lights up the lake with decorated vessels while village shops and restaurants cater to weekend warriors escaping coastal cities.
Hudson Valley, NY
Rolling mountains and historic towns create New England charm where white-steepled churches frame snow-covered hills here at Hudson Valley.
Christmas markets, holiday train rides through Victorian-decorated Jim Thorpe, and farm-to-table restaurants serving seasonal menus showcase the region’s character throughout December.
Palm Springs, CA
The desert sunshine of Palm Springs provides warm-weather Christmas escapes where mid-century modern architecture and mountain views create that California cool vibe.
While it won’t snow, the sunny 70-degree days mean hiking, golfing, and poolside lounging replace traditional winter activities.
Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale is a desert destination offers golf, hiking, and outdoor adventures without freezing temperatures, where luxury resorts and spas create upscale holiday experiences.
The mild weather means you can explore Sonoran Desert trails, visit art galleries, and dine on patios throughout December.
Sedona, AZ
Red rock formations dusted with occasional snow create stunning contrasts here at Sedona. It is where spiritual energy and natural beauty attract visitors seeking peaceful holiday retreats.
The artsy town hosts holiday markets, while hiking trails through Oak Creek Canyon provide outdoor adventures without the bitter cold.
Explore More Christmas Experiences
Planning the perfect Christmas vacation requires understanding each destination’s unique offerings and finding accommodations that match your family’s needs.
Best Christmas Vacation Spots in USA
Discover detailed guides to America’s top Christmas vacation spots featuring insider tips on holiday events, local traditions, and the best vacation rentals for experiencing each location’s festive magic. From mountain ski towns to coastal cities, find the places and properties that put you in the heart of Christmas celebrations.
Best Christmas Towns in USA
Small towns often deliver the most authentic Christmas experiences where entire communities participate in tree lightings, parades, and holiday markets.
Explore our guides to America’s most festive towns featuring places and vacation homes that let you live like a local during the season’s most wonderful time.
Best Christmas Markets in USA
Holiday markets bring communities together, selling handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and local specialties you won’t find at any mall.
Our guides highlight America’s best Christmas markets with nearby vacation rentals that make shopping, eating, and celebrating stress-free and memorable.
Stay with AvantStay for the Best Christmas Memory
Vacation rentals transform holiday travel from stressful hotel stays into cozy gatherings where families cook traditional meals, exchange gifts by crackling fireplaces, and create memories that outlast any store-bought present.
By staying at a vacation home, it provides the space, privacy, and authentic local experience that hotels simply can’t match during the season when togetherness matters most.
Twinkling lights reflecting off fresh snow, families gathered around fireplaces exchanging gifts, and the smell of cookies baking in vacation rental kitchens.
These moments don’t happen scrolling through phones at home during another ordinary December, stuck in the same routine you follow every year.
From snow-covered mountain towns to mild coastal cities, these destinations are where your family creates holiday traditions worth repeating for years to come.
Ready to book your Christmas escape? Browse AvantStay’s holiday-ready vacation rentals across America’s most festive destinations and start planning the Christmas your family will remember forever.
These properties book quickly during the holiday season, so reserve your spot now before the best homes disappear. Book now!
