Best Vacations In Us In December – The best Christmas vacations in the US include cool-weather small towns, big cities with beaches and sunshine, and exciting destinations lined up throughout the holiday season.
I’ve worked with a group of my fellow bloggers to put together a diverse list of options for those looking to gift something new this Christmas. Some of these destinations are more accessible than others. But they all deserve to be on your list of ideas for this holiday season and to follow.
Best Vacations In Us In December
From the Christmas holiday towns of Leavenworth, Washington and Santa Claus, Indiana to the famous holiday markets in big cities like Chicago and Boston, let’s take a look at popular holiday destinations in America.
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Chicago is a magical place any time of year, but it’s especially enchanting at Christmas. The city is decked out for the holidays, making it perfect for a fun getaway.
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival begins the weekend before Thanksgiving. Costumed characters, bands and celebrities parade down Michigan Avenue, and the Famous District also offers discounted shopping opportunities to pick up gifts for loved ones.
Speaking of gifts, don’t miss a visit to Macy’s State Street. In the past, Marshall Field’s visit to the Walnut Room has been a generational tradition.
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The Christkindlmarkt is like a quick trip to Nuremberg. Vendors come from all over the world to sell their handmade goods, and you can’t leave without trying traditional German cuisine.
In Millennium Park, next to the festive outdoor ice rink, the city’s Christmas tree shines brightly. The Lincoln Park Zoo is also lit up. With millions of lights, ZooLights is one of Chicago’s most popular Christmas traditions.
Another favorite is the Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier. This carnival-like event transforms the Festival Hall into a winter wonderland. These are some of the best things to do in Chicago in the winter.
All of this, along with incredible dining and hotel options for a variety of budgets, make Chicago one of the best vacation destinations.
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There’s nothing like New York during the holidays; It is truly one of the best Christmas holidays in the United States. The city embodies the joy of the season on every street corner.
For New York’s most famous seasonal attraction, head to Rockefeller Center to enjoy the popular Christmas tree and ice rink.
Across the street at Saks Fifth Avenue, you can see storefronts light up every 10 minutes in time to the music. Afterwards, stroll down Fifth Avenue and admire the holiday window displays.
If you want to stay close to the area, check out The Peninsula Hotel. It is located just off Fifth Avenue and is prized for its incredible Christmas displays.
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You can also experience some unique Christmas events on a New York City holiday tour. Take a trip to see the Christmas light display in Brooklyn or visit the site of the iconic holiday movie. There are also Christmas-themed river cruises.
Want to do some Christmas shopping? There are many holiday markets in urban areas. Consider taking the Staten Island Ferry and walking the High Line.
Bryant Park, Columbus Circle, Union Square and Oculus have amazing markets with artisan shops that are great for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.
In your mind’s eye, you can imagine walking around with intricate and colorful decorations and happily tossing beads into the crowd.
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Unfortunately, it’s not Carnival yet, but the small heritage houses are still decorated to the nines. Christmas time is a colorful celebration like Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
One of the highlights is the bonfire on the dam across the Mississippi River, which lights the way for Papa Noel (Santa Claus) to deliver presents on Christmas Eve.
In the run-up to Christmas, you may want to check out the annual large-scale light show and sound installation offered during LUNA Fête in the CBD or Central Business District. It is no less magical.
Head to Jackson Square from St. Petersburg with a stroll through the French Quarter. Louise enjoys singing old songs. Candles and song sheets are distributed for community participation.
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Look for Revellon dishes, usually served after midnight mass, recreated with New Orleans duck and andouille gumbo or shrimp remoulade and pecan pie.
You won’t find a bad meal in this city. As always, “laissez les bons temps rouler” and enjoy Louisiana’s most famous city during the holidays.
The best Christmas vacation in the United States is Boston, Massachusetts! Located on the east coast, this beautiful city is full of fun activities, especially in December.
Most winters, there are several pop-up ice rinks throughout the city. They are great fun for the whole family and really help keep the Christmas spirit going.
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There are many different locations, but the best place to skate is the new pop-up rink on the 401 near Fenway Park.
The court is right next to Time Out Market, which is a huge food hall filled with some amazing restaurants and cafes. Honestly, this is one of the best places to eat in Boston.
The popular Quincy Market near the Granary Burying Ground is also lit up for Christmas. Honestly, this is the best Christmas area in the whole city in December.
At the beginning of the month a giant tree is erected and everyone comes and listens to live music. It’s one of the best days of the year in Boston!
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Additionally, all the trees around this area are wrapped in bright Christmas lights, making it even more festive.
Finally, if you’re visiting in the winter, you have to check out Boston’s fun Christmas decoration shops. It will make you feel like you are in a winter wonderland! Be sure to pick up Boston jewelry as a souvenir for your trip.
The first thing that comes to your mind when you come to Washington are monuments, museums and landmarks.
But did you know that the holidays mean great trees, beautiful decorations, classic and unique holiday offerings, and seasonal food and drink?
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Visiting DC during the holiday season is almost a Charles Dickens attraction. Many decorated trees, unusual decorations and many events related to the city make the history and architecture come alive.
One of the great things about visiting DC during the holiday season is that it’s not a huge city, so you can enjoy all you want during the long weekend.
While the National Christmas Tree garners national television attention, the tree at the Library of Congress will take your breath away.
Not far from the Library of Congress is the US Botanic Garden, which this year hosts the beloved annual holiday train show, featuring famous DC landmarks and buildings made entirely of plant materials.
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Union Station is a quick scooter or Capitol Bikeshare ride from the US Botanic Garden, and there are three large crowns outside the building – trust me, it’s worth the stop.
Looking for other vacation activities in Washington? In the evening, you can fill your time with a DIY walking tour of the city.
Visit all the lavishly decorated locations, including CityCenter, Old Ebbitt Grill’s Oversized Nutcracker and the Downtown Holiday Market.
All this walking leads to an appetite at the local flagship restaurant, Astro Donuts (for its famous seasonal creations), followed by tiki food and festive drinks at Santa’s Sippin’ Surf Shack pop-up in Nusantara.
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DC is one of the best Christmas vacations for families. While you’re in town for the holidays, check out some of Washington DC’s under-the-radar museums and some driving tours of the District of Columbia.
Philadelphia is one of the best vacation spots in America. During the Christmas season, the streets of downtown Philadelphia are lined with decorations and lights.
Philly’s famous Love Park hosts a Christmas market in December. The park is a perfect photo spot all year round, but nothing beats the Christmas season.
Across from Love Park is Philadelphia City Hall’s Dilworth Plaza, home to a winter skating rink and other vendors. The beautiful Philadelphia Christmas tree is located on the City Hall lawn, where you can enjoy hot chocolate from the surrounding food and drink stands.
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There’s even more Philly Christmas fun at Macy’s Market Street. Sure, it’s busy with holiday shoppers, but the third floor is home to the Massey Dickens Christmas Village.
Travelers of all ages will enjoy walking through scenes from Christmas Carols portrayed by lively animated characters. See the daily light show and visit Santa who takes over Macy’s every year.
If you have a
