Christmas is a magical time of the year wherever you spend it, but there are some places that are just a little more magical than others. These four US destinations ooze Christmas cheer and make the perfect Christmas getaway destinations.
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1. Park City, Utah
This charming village is nestled in between mountains, creating the perfect wintry backdrop for your Christmas getaway. It might be the snowy landscape or the numerous Christmas events, but Park City is a popular place to celebrate the festive season.
Things not to be missed
- Take a ride on the North Pole Express
During the holiday season, Park City runs a North Pole Express service on the Heber Valley Railroad so everyone can experience the magic of Christmas. Passengers will be treated to live entertainment, hot cocoa, and even a present from Santa himself!
- Attend the tree lighting ceremony
The perfect start to the festive season, the annual tree lighting ceremony will get you in the holiday spirit. There’s live music, market stalls, and fireworks to make the night truly special.
- Snowfest at Park City Mountain
Snowfest runs for two weeks over Christmas and New Year’s at Park City Mountain. There are different events every day and you just might get to meet Santa!
- Park City Holiday Spectacular Sing-a-long
A family favorite, the Park City Holiday Spectacular Sing-a-long brings people of all ages together to sing their favorite Christmas tunes. The show features many local performers – come prepared to sing your favorite Christmas carols!
2. Beaufort, South Carolina
The town of Beaufort oozes southern charm and makes for a great getaway at any time of the year, but it certainly comes alive at Christmas. With decorated streets, holiday festivals, and a range of festive events, there is certainly no lack of festive cheer in this town.
Things not to be missed
- Annual Night on the Town Holiday Celebration
Beaufort kicks off the holiday season in style. The streets of Downtown Beaufort are closed to traffic so everyone can come out and watch the tree lighting ceremony. There’s live entertainment, a visit from Santa and the shops stay open late.
- Annual Christmas Parade
Every year, Beaufort hosts a Christmas parade to celebrate the festive season. There are costumes, floats and marching bands – if you’re in town, you won’t want to miss this!
- Crystal Coast Christmas Flotilla
Each year, the Beaufort River is lit up by boats that have been decorated in colored lights. People line the riverbanks, keeping warm with hot chocolates as they cheer for the different boats. Vessels of all types are encouraged including yachts, kayaks, and commercial boats, and are judged on creativity.
- Gingerbread 5k
Another annual event, the Gingerbread 5k is a fun run for people of all ages. Participants wear Christmas-themed costumes as they make their way around Old Village.
3. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is known for its stunning coastal views and impressive mansions, but during the holiday season the town becomes so much more than that. In fact, Newport takes the holiday season very seriously with a month full of Christmas celebrations.
Things not to be missed
- Christmas at the Newport Mansions
The Gilded Age mansions are breathtaking to see at any time of the year, but decked out in Christmas decorations is really something else. Head to the three mansions (The Breakers, The Elms, and Marble House) to see towering Christmas trees and intricate ornaments carefully placed throughout the buildings.
- Bowen’s Wharf Holiday Block Party
Kick off the festive season with live music, good vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer. The Bowen’s Wharf party is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit and there will be plenty of bargains at local stores.
- Dickens Christmas Dinner Theatre Train
Experience ‘A Christmas Carol’ in a completely different way as it comes to life on this theatre train. The Dickens classic is told through an interactive experience, creating fun for the whole family.
- See the Nutcracker
Newport offers its own version of the Christmas classic, the Nutcracker. A Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff is presented by Island Moving Company and is sure to impress.
4. New York, New York
An obvious choice, yes, but a deserving one nonetheless. Visiting New York at Christmastime is nothing short of magical. There are lights and decorations in every direction that you look and the whole city is buzzing with Christmas cheer. Plus there’s the ice skating, the Christmas markets, and the Rockefeller Tree. If you’ve never visited the city during the holiday season, you should!
Things not to be missed
- Christmas market at Colombus Circle
The Christmas markets are definitely worth exploring, none more so than the charming one at Columbus Circle. Grab a cup of mulled cider and work your way through the stalls – you’ll probably be able to tick a few gifts off your list! If you happen to make more than a few purchases, you can store your items at a luggage storage facility in NYC and pick them up when you are ready to head back to your hotel.
- The Rockefeller Tree
The area will be packed with people, but you can’t go to New York at Christmas time and not see the Rockefeller Tree. Maybe you can even time your visit to see the lighting ceremony!
- Ice skating at Central Park
There’s something so joyful about ice skating in the city. Check out the famous rink at Central Park, or if the lines are too long head to Bryant Park.
- See the Rockettes at Radio City Hall
The iconic Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular will definitely get you in the mood for Christmas. Founded way back in 1932, it is simply a New York institution.
Make your Christmas extra special this year by taking a Christmas getaway to one of these incredible US locations.