Best Places To Visit On Christmas Near Me

The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of giving. As Christmas approaches, many people look for the perfect places to celebrate and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking a winter wonderland, a cozy retreat, or a vibrant city experience, there are countless destinations to explore. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit on Christmas near you.

1. Winter Wonderland Destinations

Aspen, Colorado

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Aspen is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, offering slopes for all skill levels.
• Festive Atmosphere: The town is beautifully decorated with lights and holiday decorations, creating a charming and festive ambiance.
• Winter Activities: Enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides through the snowy landscapes.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is a picturesque destination for a white Christmas.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, or take a peaceful hike in the snow-covered forests.
• Holiday Events: Participate in local Christmas markets and festive events happening around the lake.

Quebec City, Canada

• Old-World Charm: Experience the European feel of Old Quebec, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
• Christmas Markets: Explore the German-inspired Christmas markets, offering unique gifts and delicious treats.
• Winter Carnival: Visit during the Quebec Winter Carnival for parades, ice sculptures, and traditional music.

2. Cozy Retreats

Asheville, North Carolina

• Biltmore Estate: Tour the grand Biltmore Estate, beautifully decorated for the holidays with thousands of lights and ornaments.
• Craft Breweries: Warm up with a visit to one of Asheville’s many craft breweries, offering seasonal brews.
• Artisanal Shops: Explore local shops and galleries for unique, handcrafted gifts.

Woodstock, Vermont

• Quaint Village: Woodstock offers a quintessential New England Christmas experience with its charming village and covered bridges.
• Wassail Weekend: Join in the Wassail Weekend festivities, featuring parades, concerts, and holiday feasts.
• Cozy Inns: Stay in a cozy inn or bed and breakfast, complete with roaring fireplaces and homemade breakfasts.

Leavenworth, Washington

• Bavarian Village: Discover the Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
• Christmas Lighting Festival: Attend the Christmas Lighting Festival, where the entire village is illuminated in a dazzling display.
• Winter Sports: Enjoy skiing, sledding, and tubing in the nearby mountains.

3. Vibrant City Experiences

New York City, New York

• Rockefeller Center: Marvel at the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center.
• Holiday Windows: Stroll along Fifth Avenue to see the elaborate holiday window displays in department stores.
• Broadway Shows: Catch a holiday-themed Broadway show or the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

Chicago, Illinois

• Christkindlmarket: Visit the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza for a taste of German holiday traditions.
• Magnificent Mile: Shop along the Magnificent Mile, beautifully lit with holiday lights and decorations.
• Millennium Park: Ice skate at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink with the stunning Chicago skyline as your backdrop.

London, England

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: Experience the festive attractions, ice skating, and Christmas markets in Hyde Park.
• Oxford Street Lights: Admire the dazzling Christmas lights along Oxford Street and Regent Street.
• Historic Pubs: Warm up in one of London’s historic pubs, offering cozy atmospheres and seasonal ales.

4. Unique Christmas Experiences

Santa Claus Village, Finland

• Meet Santa Claus: Visit the official hometown of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, located in the Arctic Circle.
• Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Take a magical reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests.
• Northern Lights: Witness the breathtaking Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Yule Lads: Learn about Iceland’s unique Christmas tradition of the Yule Lads, mischievous characters who visit children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas.
• Geothermal Pools: Relax in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon or other geothermal pools.
• Christmas Markets: Explore the Christmas markets in Reykjavik, offering local crafts and delicacies.

Nuremberg, Germany

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: Experience one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world.
• Traditional Treats: Savor traditional German treats like gingerbread, bratwurst, and mulled wine.
• Historic Setting: Enjoy the market’s historic setting in the medieval Old Town of Nuremberg.

5. Family-Friendly Destinations

Orlando, Florida

• Walt Disney World: Celebrate the holidays at Walt Disney World, with festive parades, decorations, and special events.
• Universal Studios: Experience the magic of Christmas at Universal Studios, featuring themed attractions and shows.
• SeaWorld Orlando: Enjoy holiday-themed shows and attractions at SeaWorld, including a winter wonderland with real snow.

Lapland, Finland

• Santa’s Workshop: Visit Santa’s Workshop and meet the elves in this enchanting winter wonderland.
• Husky Sledding: Go on a thrilling husky sledding adventure through the snowy landscapes.
• Snow Villages: Explore snow villages with ice sculptures and igloos.

Copenhagen, Denmark

• Tivoli Gardens: Experience the enchanting Christmas market and festive decorations at Tivoli Gardens.
• Nyhavn Christmas Market: Stroll along the picturesque Nyhavn harbor, lined with colorful houses and a charming Christmas market.
• Danish Traditions: Discover Danish Christmas traditions, including the celebration of “hygge” with cozy gatherings and delicious food.

Conclusion

Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy escape, a cozy retreat, or a vibrant city celebration, there are countless destinations to explore during the Christmas season. From the enchanting streets of Quebec City to the festive lights of New York City, each place offers its own unique charm and holiday spirit. So pack your bags, embrace the magic of the season, and create unforgettable memories at these best places to visit on Christmas near you.