The United States is a great place to spend the Christmas season.
This is the time of year when even the smallest of towns go all out, transforming themselves into winter wonderlands with festive decorations, holiday activities, and, in some places, snowy landscapes.
Here is a list of some of the best Christmas towns in the United States where you can celebrate the holiday season.
From Bavarian-style villages to towns with a year-round festive focus, to classic New England streets, this list has something for everyone looking to either be dazzled or snuggle up someplace cozy.
10 Best Christmas Towns in the USA
1. Leavenworth, Washington
Tucked away in the mountains is the small town of Leavenworth. It looks like it’s straight out of a Christmas story book. The entire town is designed in Bavarian style and is a Christmas wonderland in the winter.
You can walk through the Christkindlmarkt and the Village of Lights and enjoy all the lights. It’s best at the start of December when there’s snow as that really gives it that magical touch.
2. North Pole, Alaska
Yes, there is actually a town called North Pole! Home to a Christmas-inspired theme all year long, it’s a winter playground for those looking to get into the holiday spirit.
You can’t miss Santa Claus House, aglow with lights and ice statues. It’s definitely a lot of fun but make sure to come during the height of winter and bundle-up warm enough!
3. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, is one unique town around Christmastime. It is also home to the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.
The classic decorations and small-town holiday spirit make it feel like you are in a Hallmark Christmas film. The best time to go is during their Christmas markets, as the entire town will be lit up and festive.
4. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is just so quintessentially “New England Christmas.” During Wassail Weekend, horse-drawn carriages fill the streets and there’s snow blanketing the ground.
It’s small and snug and a wonderful place to experience Christmas. Go in early December for Wassail Weekend and enjoy the sense of nostalgia and tradition all weekend long.
5. McAdenville, North Carolina (a.k.a. “Christmas Town USA”)
McAdenville is absolutely covered in lights — half a million of them, to be exact. The whole town gets involved in the festivities, which is why it’s officially known as “Christmas Town USA.” And all that light comes at no cost to you.
6. Solvang, California
Solvang mixes Danish heritage with sunny California weather for a surprising result. During the town’s Julefest celebrations, European holiday magic comes to the Pacific.
It’s unlike anything else you’ll ever experience, complete with holiday markets and stunning displays. The best time to go is from late November to early December for Julefest, when the town is all decked out in its holiday finest.
7. Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado is the most magical place to celebrate Christmas. Imagine boarding the renowned Polar Express Train and riding through snow-covered mountains — it’s like stepping into a Christmas card.
The downtown area is gorgeous as the historic buildings twinkle with lights while the sound of Christmas carols rings out. Come in December for the full experience, but book your train tickets early! They go quick!
8. Park City, Utah
Ultimate winter destination for Christmas: Park City, Utah. This ski town becomes a Christmas village: houses covered in snow, lights everywhere, and Santa actually riding the Town Lift.
Visit during the holiday season to combine days on the slopes with nights spent in this winter wonderland.
9. Helen, Georgia
Helen, Georgia in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a picturesque little Alpine-ish village and makes for a great festive getaway. The whole town is decorated with a German flair, and the Christkindlmarkt is charming.
Shop the market for unique Christmas gifts and tasty holiday goodies. Come in December when the town is done up and there are holiday activities for everyone!
10. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (“Christmas City USA”)
Welcome to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, better known as “Christmas City USA”. This oldest Moravian town in America possesses an enviable long and festive historical streak.
Stroll the Christmas markets around town, and be sure to experience the one-of-a-kind Live Advent Calendar that will get you in the holiday spirit (and is bound to bring you some Christmas cheer at anytime during the entire month of December)!
Be sure to plan your visit during the holidays, when they are in full swing, because there really is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit!
Tips for Visiting Christmas Towns in the USA
Visiting a Christmas town is a fun way to get in the festive mood. Just remember to book your accommodation well in advance as it’s a popular time and things book up fast!
Make sure you bring the appropriate clothing too so you’re prepared for your snowy or sunny destination and can look the part!
Don’t skip the local parades, markets, and tree lighting, as that’s the whole point! You can also pair the experience with other attractions or a visit to a ski resort. If you can, try to visit via train.
It’s a charmingly festive way to get there and just adds to the vacation.
FAQ
1. What makes a town a “Christmas town”?
Christmas towns are towns that embrace all things festive from decorations to events to just cheer. Think: holiday markets, lights, events, and celebrations that will get anyone in the Christmas spirit.
2. When is the best time to visit a Christmas town in the USA?
The best time to go is usually late November to December when the decorations are out and holiday celebrations are happening. The earlier you go in December the better before things get busier.
3. Is it easy to visit multiple Christmas towns on one trip?
Do you need to visit attractions that are close enough to each other (or close to another city) at the same time? Some towns are just down the road or an easy driving distance from each other or from a larger city. And it’s not hard to see two or three in a day.
4. Are there free activities in these Christmas towns?
Most Christmas villages have plenty of free stuff to do and see —think light displays, parades, and open markets.
Conclusion
The Christmas towns in the USA are a special breed of place. They all have their own unique charm, combining bright lights, fun events, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.
No matter which town you decide to visit, you’ll be treated to a winter wonderland celebration that you’ll always remember!