The holiday season sparks a unique desire to explore festive destinations that capture the magic of Christmas.
Whether it’s snowy mountain towns, bustling cities with dazzling lights, or cozy villages known for their holiday charm, the perfect Christmas trip can create unforgettable memories.
Choosing the right spot depends on what kind of holiday experience you want—be it warm beaches, traditional Christmas markets, or winter sports.
Travel experts and enthusiasts alike recommend planning early to secure the best deals and ensure smooth travel during this busy season.
From iconic cities with world-famous holiday markets to small towns that transform into Christmas wonderlands, there’s a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.
For those dreaming of a festive getaway in 2025, these top Christmas trips offer inspiration for an enchanting holiday escape.
1. Christmas in Chicago
Experience Chicago’s festive spirit with its dazzling holiday lights and events. Begin at Millennium Park, where the 50-foot Christmas tree and outdoor skating rink set the season’s tone.
Explore the Christkindlmarket for authentic German crafts and cuisine. Don’t miss the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, featuring parades and celebrity appearances.
Visit Macy’s on State Street for classic holiday shopping and the Walnut Room tradition. Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights offers millions of sparkling lights, while Navy Pier hosts the carnival-style Winter Wonderfest.
2. Christmas in Las Vegas
Las Vegas offers a unique Christmas experience featuring iconic global landmarks like NYC, Paris, and Egypt. Visitors can enjoy the Bellagio fountain show set to Christmas tunes and the 65-foot tree at the Venetian.
Ice skating on real ice at the Cosmopolitan with snow showers and s’mores adds festive charm. The Bellagio Conservatory’s holiday display and the Glittering Lights drive-thru show amplify the season’s magic.
Resorts compete with extravagant decorations, while Ethel M’s cactus garden glows with festive lights, making Vegas a top holiday destination.
3. Christmas in Miami
Experience Christmas in Miami with warm, sunny weather and unique holiday celebrations. Enjoy people-watching at South Beach, shopping on Lincoln Road, and savoring Haitian and Cuban cuisine.
Attend seasonal events like Light Up The Night at CityPlace Doral and Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights. Discover Santa in pastel pink outfits and tropical-themed decorations, including palm trees wrapped in white lights. Miami offers a festive escape with island flair local culture during the holidays.
4. Christmas in New York
Experience the magic of Christmas in New York City with iconic attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink.
Stroll along Fifth Avenue to admire festive window displays and visit the Bryant Park Winter Village for unique shopping and treats.
Don’t miss the free Saks Fifth Avenue light show and the dazzling Dyker Heights neighborhood holiday tour.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular and The Nutcracker ballet offer unforgettable seasonal entertainment. NYC transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland, perfect for joyful festive trips.
5. Christmas in Vermont, New England
Experience a quintessential New England Christmas in Vermont, where snowy landscapes and cozy cabins set the perfect holiday scene.
Visitors can stay in Burlington, enjoying its 50-foot Christmas tree, festive galleries, and brightly lit shops. Woodstock and Manchester offer charming holiday festivals and seasonal events.
For a rustic retreat, book a cabin near Lake Champlain with family, surrounded by snow-dusted woods.
Vermont also features unique attractions like Bennington’s moose statues and the Ben & Jerry’s factory tour with its famous Flavor Graveyard. The chance of a white Christmas here is high, making it an unforgettable holiday destination.
6. Christmas in Portland
Portland shines during Christmas with its festive markets, dazzling light displays, and cozy urban charm. Visitors can explore the Portland Saturday Market for unique handcrafted gifts and holiday treats.
The ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo feature millions of sparkling lights and themed scenes perfect for families. Strolling through the Pearl District offers stylish boutiques adorned with seasonal décor.
Food lovers enjoy pop-up holiday food carts and craft breweries releasing festive brews. Portland’s blend of creative spirit and holiday cheer makes it an ideal Christmas getaway.
7. Christmas in Washington DC
Celebrate Christmas in Washington DC by exploring the National Christmas Tree near the White House, brilliantly lit with over 10,000 handmade ornaments unique to each year’s state gift.
Experience the Capitol Christmas Tree lighting on the West Lawn with musical performances and magical nighttime views.
Visit the US Botanic Gardens for a free holiday light show featuring large fir trees and pastel-colored lights.
Indulge in seasonal treats at Astro Doughnuts and enjoy festive pop-ups like Santa’s Sippin Surf Shack for holiday drinks and tiki flavors. Washington DC offers a charming, family-friendly holiday experience steeped in American tradition.
8. Christmas in Toronto
Toronto offers a festive Christmas experience with its historic Christmas Parade showcasing floats and Santa Claus.
Visitors can admire the tallest Christmas tree in North America at the Eaton Centre or explore upscale boutiques in Yorkville.
The St. Lawrence Market adds a historic charm for holiday shopping. This city blends tradition and modern holiday spirit, perfect for immersive Christmas trips filled with unique shopping and lively events.
9. Christmas in Mexico City
Experience Christmas in Mexico City with posadas, lively street markets, and stunning nativity scenes. Visitors enjoy traditional foods like tamales and ponche, a warm fruit punch.
The Zócalo transforms into a festive hub with dazzling lights and ice skating. Cultural events spotlight folkloric music and dance, creating an authentic holiday atmosphere.
Explore historic neighborhoods adorned with colorful decorations and join midnight Mass for a memorable festive celebration.
10. Christmas in Ometepe, Nicaragua
Experience Christmas on Ometepe Island, where volcanic landscapes meet lush greenery for a serene holiday escape. Travelers can enjoy traditional Nicaraguan festivities, local markets filled with handmade crafts parades.
Choose cozy guesthouses near the beaches or jungle trails for authentic stays. Explore petroglyphs and waterfalls by day, then gather for community dinners featuring seasonal dishes like nacatamales.
Booking early secures the best rates and ensures participation in unique island celebrations that blend nature and culture beautifully.
11. Christmas in Medellin, Colombia
Discover Medellin’s Christmas spirit with its stunning holiday lights and lively street festivals. Explore Comuna 13’s urban art and music scene, reflecting the city’s resilience.
Take cable cars over hillside neighborhoods built by those fleeing past conflicts for breathtaking views. Savor local cuisine and tropical fruits like coconut lemonade.
Immerse in a warm cultural experience rich in history and festive cheer while enjoying budget-friendly travel options across Colombia.
12. Christmas in Santiago, Chile
Experience Christmas in Santiago with its warm summer weather and festivities. Visitors can explore Plaza de Armas adorned with lights, enjoy traditional Chilean holiday foods like pan de Pascua, and visit festive markets featuring local crafts.
Outdoor concerts and fireworks add to the celebration. It’s ideal to book accommodations early and consider guided tours to navigate holiday events smoothly, ensuring a memorable and culturally rich Christmas getaway in this lively South American city.
Alicia Richards