My Top 10 American Christmas Towns

Rebecca James on 07 December 2020
These places are literally the definition of a Merry Christmas!

As Christmas draws near, I find myself watching cheesy Hallmark movies and just wishing I could transport myself into the festive little towns! I am hoping I am not alone; I have put together a list of my favourite American towns to visit during the festive season. So, grab a Hot Chocolate, put your feet up and transport yourself into a Festive Wonderland.

1. Vail, Colorado

Vail is famous for its powdered slopes, cobblestone streets, and cozy lodges. At Christmastime, you can soak in the lights strewn all over town, take in the mountain views, and visit the Kris Kringle Market for a few holiday gifts. It is the perfect snow-covered Winter Wonderland.

2. North Pole, Alaska

Can it really get more festive than visiting a snow-covered North Pole? This small town in Alaska shares the name of Old St. Nick's home and certainly lives up to it. They have even got a Christmas in Ice event that showcases ice sculpture artists from around the world.

3. Leavenworth, Washington

Enter a winter wonderland by visiting the gorgeous Bavarian mountain village of Leavenworth, Washington. This small town is on our shortlist for a special trip in 2021. It is just like stepping into the most beautiful Christmas Movie. In addition to the stunning views that you could easily mistake for Europe, the town also hosts lighting ceremonies, sleigh rides, and even has its very own reindeer farm. What more could you need!

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Next up is the second place on our shortlist, New England already holds a special place in our hearts and Woodstock does not disappoint. Imagine strolling down the idyllic main street, taking a wagon tour to see historic covered bridges, and visiting the Billings Farm for some fun Victorian era-inspired festivities. To top it all off, you have world class skiing and some of Americas most beautiful scenery.

5. Helen, Georgia

Tourists flock to this Bavarian-like town every December to feel like they are right in a German Christmas village. I mean you could go to Germany but that would not fit into my list and it won’t have Target?! Visit Chistkindlmarkt, a traditional Christmas market, attend a lively Christmas parade, and have breakfast with Santa so your kids can tell the man in red what is on their lists. It really is a Christmas Dream.

6. Natchitoches, Louisana

This small Louisiana town transforms into a Christmas destination each year with its Festival of Lights celebration. The banks of the Cane River are decorated with over 100 light displays and 300,000 individual lights that honor both the holiday and the town's Creole heritage. There are also carriage rides, home tours, and parades throughout the holiday season. This little town could easily be twinned with the Christmas Inn I posted a few days ago for the ultimate Christmas break.

7. Newport, Rhode Island

While the cobblestone streets and quaint New England buildings are enough to get you into the holiday spirit, Newport is a great Christmas destination because of its historic mansions that are decked out for the season. Driving round American houses is a secret highlight of my holidays and these massive Gilded Age homes do not disappoint. Imagine gorgeous trees, lights, and the most elaborate decorations. They are available to tour during November and December.

8. Durango, Colorado

You can never go wrong spending Christmas in a ski town. Durango, Colorado offers several ideal ski spots, but it will also deliver lots of holiday cheer. You can hop aboard the Polar Express or take a ride on the Cascade Canyon Train that brings you to cut down your own Christmas tree.

9. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Usually people flock to Nantucket in the summer, but it's actually a great place to visit in Winter too. We had the most wonderful trip one year in November, the town was quaint and delightful, easily one of the highlights of our trip. Each year, the island community hosts a Christmas stroll along Main Street. You can enjoy mulled wine, carollers, and shop for gifts. Take in the hundreds of decorated Christmas trees that line the downtown streets. This could easily be incorporated into a roadtrip as we did.

10. Santa Claus, Indiana

I simply had to finish with this one! Named after old St. Nicholas himself, there is no better place to spend the holidays than Santa Claus, Indiana. Each December, the town holds the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration that's full of festive events, lots of food, and great holiday shopping. You can also head over to the Santa Claus Museum & Village, and drive through the Santa's Land of Lights holiday light show.