The Most Festive Christmas Destinations to Visit in the USA
Thursday 5th December 2024
Let’s be real – the US has some seriously awesome Christmas spots that are worth checking out. From small mountain towns with epic holiday vibes to big cities that go all out with decorations and festive cheer, there’s something magical happening everywhere during the holiday season. If you’re looking to soak up some serious Christmas spirit and create some amazing memories, we’ve got the ultimate lineup of destinations that’ll make your holiday travel totally worth it.
1. Orlando, Florida
Orlando might be known for its theme parks, but during the holidays, the city transforms into a seriously magical Christmas destination. Walt Disney World’s “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” is an absolute must-visit, with special parades, holiday fireworks, and festive entertainment that brings the magic to life. Over at Universal Studios, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter gets a spectacular holiday makeover, complete with seasonal decorations and special winter experiences. ICON Park lights up with millions of twinkling lights during their Christmas celebration, creating a dazzling display that’s perfect for family photos. For those looking for a more traditional holiday experience, the charming Winter Park area offers a classic Christmas feel with its decorated streets, seasonal markets, and festive events that capture the true spirit of the season. And let’s not forget about the incredible light displays at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, where holiday shows, festive treats, and spectacular light displays create an unforgettable winter wonderland right in the heart of sunny Florida.
Highlights: Marvel at the twinkling lights of Lake Eola Park’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. For something unique, visit ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort, a spectacular winter attraction with ice sculptures, slides, and a holiday-themed show.
2. Miami, Florida
Miami might not scream “traditional Christmas,” but the city brings its own unique tropical twist to the holiday season. While you won’t find snow, you’ll discover a vibrant celebration that blends Miami’s energetic culture with festive cheer. Neighborhoods like Coral Gables transform with elaborate light displays and holiday decorations, creating a sparkling scene that feels magical in its own right. Bayside Marketplace hosts spectacular holiday events, complete with festive music and decorated boats that cruise through the marina. The city’s Latin American influences shine through in holiday celebrations, with traditions like Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) bringing families together for incredible feasts and lively gatherings. Art Deco districts like Miami Beach get decked out in twinkling lights, offering picture-perfect holiday backdrops that blend glamour with seasonal spirit. For those wanting a more traditional experience, places like Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden put on incredible holiday light shows that turn the lush tropical landscape into a spectacular Christmas wonderland. From outdoor concerts to beach-side celebrations, Miami proves you don’t need snow to create unforgettable holiday memories.
Highlights: Dazzling displays at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s NightGarden, enjoy seasonal treats at the Holiday Village at Bayfront Park, or check out the immersive light experience at Zoo Miami’s Zoo Lights.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas might be known for its non-stop energy and casino lights, but during the holiday season, the city takes festivity to a whole new level. The Strip transforms into a dazzling Christmas spectacle, with massive hotel displays that make regular holiday decorations look amateur. The Bellagio Conservatory becomes a jaw-dropping winter wonderland, featuring massive holiday displays that change every year, with intricate designs and thousands of flowers and plants arranged into festive scenes. The Fremont Street Experience goes all out with holiday light shows that turn the entire street into a synchronized Christmas celebration, complete with music and millions of lights. For those seeking a bit of traditional holiday magic, the nearby Red Rock Canyon offers a stunning snow-capped backdrop that feels worlds away from the city’s neon lights. Hotels like the Venetian and Wynn create elaborate Christmas displays that rival theme parks, with massive Christmas trees, elaborate window decorations, and immersive holiday experiences. Ice skating rinks pop up across the city, giving visitors a chance to enjoy a winter activity in the middle of the desert. From spectacular shows at venues like the Bellagio to themed holiday buffets and festive cocktails, Las Vegas proves it knows how to celebrate Christmas with its signature over-the-top style.
Highlights: Visit the Bellagio Conservatory for a jaw-dropping seasonal display, explore the enchanting Glittering Lights at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, or head to The LINQ Promenade for festive fun and a snowy adventure. Las Vegas offers a holiday experience like no other.
4. Houston, Texas
Houston might surprise you with its big-hearted holiday spirit, proving that Texas knows how to do Christmas right. The city transforms during the holiday season, with attractions like the Houston Zoo’s “ZooLights” offering an incredible evening experience where over two million lights create a magical wonderland for families. Discovery Green in downtown Houston becomes a holiday hotspot, featuring an ice skating rink, festive markets, and special seasonal events that bring the community together. Space Center Houston gets into the holiday spirit with unique space-themed Christmas displays and special seasonal programming that combines science and celebration. The Nutcracker Market and various cultural festivals showcase Houston’s diverse holiday traditions, from Mexican Las Posadas celebrations to classic Christmas events. River Oaks District puts on an impressive light display that turns the upscale neighborhood into a twinkling Christmas paradise, while local neighborhoods compete for the most elaborate holiday decorations. Museums like the Museum of Fine Arts Houston offer special holiday exhibits and events, giving visitors a chance to enjoy culture with a festive twist. From outdoor light displays to indoor celebrations, Houston proves that everything’s bigger – and more festive – in Texas.
Highlights: Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo, where millions of lights transform the grounds into a winter wonderland. Don’t miss Discovery Green’s Ice Rink, perfect for family fun, or the spectacular Holiday Lights in The Woodlands.
5. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale offers a uniquely tropical take on the holiday season that blends beach vibes with festive cheer. Las Olas Boulevard becomes a sparkling holiday destination, with elaborate decorations and festive window displays that capture the spirit of Christmas in a distinctly Floridian style. The city’s famous Winterfest Boat Parade transforms the canals into a spectacular floating holiday celebration, with decorated boats creating a one-of-a-kind light show that’s become a beloved local tradition. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park hosts special holiday events that let visitors enjoy the natural beauty of South Florida with a festive twist. Downtown Fort Lauderdale and the Riverwalk area light up with holiday decorations, creating picture-perfect scenes that blend urban charm with seasonal spirit. Local neighborhoods go all out with elaborate light displays, and beach-side communities prove you don’t need snow to create magical Christmas moments. From outdoor holiday markets to special seasonal performances at local venues, Fort Lauderdale offers a Christmas experience that’s warm in every sense of the word – combining the city’s laid-back atmosphere with genuine holiday excitement.
Highlights: the annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, a dazzling display of decorated boats on the water. Stroll through Las Olas Boulevard to enjoy holiday lights, live music, and festive dining experiences.
