‘Tis the season for twinkling lights, festive music, and towns looking like something straight out of a movie. And what better way to celebrate the holidays than by visiting one of these five best Christmas towns in America?
From charming main streets decked out with the magical glow and chestnuts roasting on the fire to cozy bed and breakfasts where you can snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate, these towns will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.
So, let’s look to see where your Winter Wonderland getaway awaits.
North Pole, Alaska
Have you ever dreamed of visiting the North Pole? If so, your dream can come true!
Welcome to North Pole, Alaska!
This magical town is the perfect place to experience the true meaning of Christmas. Imagine waking up in a cozy cabin in the Alaskan wilderness, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and twinkling Christmas lights. You step outside and take a deep breath of fresh, crisp air, and you can almost hear Santa’s sleigh bells in the distance.
While visiting this fun Alaskan town, you can meet Santa Claus and his reindeer at his workshop in the heart of the North Pole. Along with writing him a letter at the North Pole Post Office, where he is sure to write back!
And, of course, a trip to the North Pole would only be complete with enjoying all sorts of winter activities. Go snowmobiling through the snowy forest, dog sledding across the frozen lake, visit a hot spring in the middle of the snowy woods, or ice skating on a frozen pond. If you’re up to it, you can even snowshoe to the North Pole Post Office! There is something for everyone for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The North Pole is a truly magical place, and it’s the perfect place to spend the holidays. Are you ready to experience the true North Pole?
Santa Claus, Indiana
Step into the magical town of Santa Claus, Indiana! This charming town is named after jolly old St. Nick himself and celebrates Christmas year-round! During December, the city comes alive with festive decorations, light shows, and family-friendly activities, perfect for families of all ages.
Take the family on a Christmas journey to the Land of Lights during the holiday season. The Santa Claus Land of Lights is a 1.2-mile drive through North America’s largest holiday light show that tells the Christmas story in lights and storyboards. You’ll see everything from Santa’s workshop to the North Pole and even get to meet Santa himself!
Can’t make it during the holiday season but want to celebrate the Christmas spirit? Head to Santa Claus, Indiana, from the end of May to October and enjoy a family fun-filled day at Holiday World theme park and Splashin’ Safari! This Christmas-inspired theme park will keep Christmas alive throughout the summer, with the anticipation of Christmas on the horizon.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a Bavarian-style town that transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. The streets are lined in this mountain town with bustling shops and restaurants selling Christmas gifts and treats, spreading cheer to everyone who visits.
Whether you take a sleigh ride through the snow-covered streets and experience the magic of Christmas in Leavenworth or visit the Nutcracker Museum to see over 500 nutcrackers on display, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
From Late November to December 24th, explore and experience the Village of Lights in Christmastown in the heart of downtown Leavenworth. This city puts on a show with live entertainment, Christmas caroling, meet-and-greets with Santa himself, and the town’s famous bratwurst and strudel!
If you’re looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, Leavenworth is the perfect place!
Bardstown, Kentucky
Step into a winter wonderland in Bardstown! This charming town, known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” is a great place to celebrate Christmas. During the holiday season, Bardstown is decorated with twinkling lights and festive displays throughout the historic village. There are also plenty of events and activities to enjoy, perfect for all ages!
One of the best things to do to celebrate Christmas ‘Round Bardstown is by kicking the season off with a tree-lighting ceremony with a sing-a-long, Christmas parades, shopping in the town square, and visiting Santa Claus himself! Additionally, visitors can visit My Old Kentucky Home, which opens its doors to candlelight tours followed by delicious refreshments and a bourbon cake!
If you’re looking for a more boozy Christmas experience, jump on the Bourbon Trail and visit one of the many distilleries located in Bardstown. Many distilleries get in the Christmas spirit by offering special tours and tastings during the holidays, including the “Making Spirits Bright” tour.
So, no matter how you spend your time, explore Bardstown this Christmas and experience the magic of the holidays!
Solvang, California
Step into a winter wonderland at Solvang, California, where the streets are lined with twinkling lights and festive decorations. TIME Magazine has recognized this Danish-inspired town as the top US Christmas Town to visit, and it’s easy to see why. From the enchanted parades to the magical glow of lights lining the city streets, Solvang will undoubtedly put you in the holiday spirit.
During the holiday season, Solvang hosts a variety of festive events and activities, including:
- Solvang Julefest (November 24th, 2023 to January 5th, 2024): This month-long celebration is the perfect way to experience the magic of Christmas in Solvang. There are festive events and activities, from the Christmas tree lighting ceremony to the Julefest Parade.
- Candlelight Walking Tour: This unique tour takes you through the streets of Solvang as it transcends you into a winter wonderland. You’ll see the town’s many Christmas lights and decorations, and you’ll even learn about Solvang’s history.
- Visit Santa’s Village: This charming village is located in the heart of Solvang and is the perfect place to meet Santa Claus and spread the holiday cheer.
In addition to these fun events surrounding the season, here are a few additional things to do during the Christmas season in Solvang.
Julefest is a truly magical experience that you won’t soon forget. Plan a Christmas getaway to experience the magic of Solvang.
Christmas is a magical time of the year, and there’s no better way to experience it than in one of America’s many Christmas towns. No matter which town you choose to visit, not only will you be blown away by the holiday decorations, but they each offer a variety of activities and events to keep you entertained all season long!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Holiday getaway!
