Most families celebrate Christmas in their traditional ways: a nice Christmas Eve dinner, waking up to presents under the tree, and sharing fun times with the family. But what if you decided to change it up this year?
More and more families are choosing to spend their holiday on the road. Whether you want to get away from the cooking and cleaning, or have a great reason to holiday away from home, here are the best USA family holiday destinations for this Christmas.
New York City, New York
If it isn’t already, spending your Christmas in New York City should be at the top of your bucket list.
The city that never sleeps is much different covered in snow. Your first stop should be at Rockefeller Center to see the giant Christmas tree – one of the largest you’re bound to experience. Check out the angels playing trumpets and the famous ice rink while you’re there.
Don’t forget to get some shopping done. Some of the best shopping in the world, you’ll discover high-end stores on Fifth Avenue with top brands that you will be hard-pressed to find in other parts of the country. And no trip to the big apple is complete without catching a Radio City Christmas Spectacular!
Santa Claus, Indiana
If you’ve got little ones, this is the place for you. Known as “America’s Christmas Hometown,” this place is all about the holiday.
Visit the candy castle in town, see the Santa Claus museum and village, and attend a Christmas parade. Visit with Santa himself – and be sure to visit Santa’s Land of Lights before you leave town.
Colorado – The Whole State
We couldn’t pick just one place, since there are so many perfect places to visit during Christmas in Colorado. Instead of picking one, rent a car and go on a road trip to all the cities below!
Denver: Need to get some snow sports this holiday? This is the place for you. Chalk-full of skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and more, there’s also plenty of Christmas spirit to go around. Visit the Christkindl and Holiday Markets, and don’t miss the Downtown Denver Grand Illumination.
Breckenridge: Watch (or participate in) the running of the Santas Don’t miss the lighting of the town tree! Free events are the highlight of this town – from the Ullr Fest (fit for Vikings big and small), to the Snow Sculpture Championships, your family won’t be bored.
Telluride: Don’t miss Noel Night, Holiday Prelude, Olde Fashioned Christmas at Schmid Ranch, or the Ice Skating Party – all exciting, fun activities perfect for getting the kids in the holiday spirit.
Aspen: Looking for a quiet getaway with the family? Aspen is where you’ll want to head. Bring the gifts and bunker down in a cozy cabin complete with a fire to roast chestnuts over. The 12 Days of Aspen are ones you won’t want to miss!
St. Augustine, Florida
Snow isn’t your cup of tea? Head on down to sunny (but possibly chilly) Florida. St. Augustine has plenty of historical sites to visit and experience normally, but there is non-stop fun during Christmas time.
This historic town lights up during their annual Night of Lights where 3 million lights cover all buildings and structures, making this warm winter wonderland magical.
Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-themed town is a unique destination for Christmas lovers of all kinds. Traditional Bavarian music concerts and parades can be found weekly, as well as streams of Christmas lights and sledding for the kids. Though it may be far away for some, this unique spot is a hidden gem among unknown Christmas treasures.
Annapolis, Maryland
The state capital of Maryland is a patriotic, historic Christmas destination that attracts thousands of families each year.
Be sure to catch Lights on the Bay, farmers markets, chocolate festivals, parades, and holiday concerts. The cold, but not frigid, climate will be just right for sipping hot cocoa under twinkling lights.
Break away from tradition and make a new tradition with your family this year. Celebrate Christmas at an amazing city or town; from bustling crowds to quaint villages, there is sure to be a place for everyone to love.
