The United States is a vast and diverse country, offering a wide range of exciting destinations to visit during the Christmas season. From the snow-covered streets of New York City to the sunny beaches of California, there's a city that's perfect for everyone's holiday preferences. In this article, we'll explore the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas, highlighting their unique attractions, events, and festivities that make them stand out during this special time of year.
Key Points
- New York City offers iconic Christmas landmarks like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink
- Orlando's theme parks, such as Disney World and Universal Studios, provide a festive and fun atmosphere for all ages
- San Francisco's Union Square Christmas tree and ice skating rink are surrounded by shopping and dining options
- Chicago's Christkindlmarket and Millennium Park ice skating rink offer a traditional German-inspired holiday experience
- Asheville, North Carolina, features a charming downtown area with decorations, lights, and a Christmas market
New York City: A Classic Christmas Destination
New York City is one of the most iconic Christmas destinations in the world. The city’s streets are filled with festive lights, decorations, and holiday markets, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Visitors can ice skate at Rockefeller Center, see the famous Christmas tree, or take a stroll through Central Park to enjoy the winter scenery. The city’s department stores, such as Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, also offer stunning window displays and festive decorations.
Orlando: A Fun-Filled Christmas Getaway
Orlando is a top destination for families during the Christmas season. The city’s theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, offer a range of festive events and attractions, including parades, fireworks, and special holiday shows. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s many shopping and dining options, including the Orlando International Premium Outlets and the Disney Springs area.
San Francisco: A West Coast Christmas Celebration
San Francisco is a great destination for those looking for a more laid-back Christmas experience. The city’s Union Square is home to a large Christmas tree and ice skating rink, surrounded by shopping and dining options. Visitors can also take a stroll through the nearby Pier 39, which features festive lights and decorations, or explore the city’s many neighborhoods, such as Fisherman’s Wharf and Haight-Ashbury, which offer a unique and eclectic holiday atmosphere.
Chicago: A Traditional German-Inspired Christmas
Chicago is a great destination for those looking for a traditional German-inspired Christmas experience. The city’s Christkindlmarket, located in Daley Plaza, features German-style food, drinks, and shopping, as well as festive music and entertainment. Visitors can also ice skate at the Millennium Park ice skating rink, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. The city’s many neighborhoods, such as Lincoln Park and Wicker Park, also offer a range of festive events and attractions, including holiday markets and decorations.
| City | Top Christmas Attraction |
|---|---|
| New York City | Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink |
| Orlando | Walt Disney World's Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party |
| San Francisco | Union Square Christmas tree and ice skating rink |
| Chicago | Christkindlmarket and Millennium Park ice skating rink |
| Asheville, North Carolina | Downtown Asheville Christmas market and decorations |
Asheville, North Carolina: A Charming Christmas Getaway
Asheville, North Carolina, is a charming destination for those looking for a more laid-back and intimate Christmas experience. The city’s downtown area is filled with festive decorations, lights, and a Christmas market, featuring local crafts, food, and drinks. Visitors can also explore the nearby Biltmore Estate, which offers a range of holiday events and attractions, including a festive candlelight tour and a holiday wine and food festival.
Other Top Christmas Destinations in the USA
In addition to the cities mentioned above, there are many other top Christmas destinations in the USA. Some other notable mentions include:
- Boston, Massachusetts: Known for its historic Faneuil Hall and festive holiday market
- Washington, D.C.: Features a range of festive events and attractions, including the National Christmas Tree and the Smithsonian’s Holiday Festival
- New Orleans, Louisiana: Offers a unique and festive holiday experience, with its famous French Quarter and Bourbon Street
- Denver, Colorado: Features a range of outdoor activities, including skiing and snowboarding, as well as festive events and attractions, such as the Denver Christkindl Market
What are the best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas?
+The best cities to visit in the USA for Christmas include New York City, Orlando, San Francisco, Chicago, and Asheville, North Carolina. Each city offers a unique and festive holiday experience, with a range of events, attractions, and activities to enjoy.
What are the top Christmas attractions in each city?
+The top Christmas attractions in each city include the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink in New York City, Walt Disney World's Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party in Orlando, the Union Square Christmas tree and ice skating rink in San Francisco, the Christkindlmarket and Millennium Park ice skating rink in Chicago, and the downtown Asheville Christmas market and decorations in Asheville, North Carolina.
What are the best things to do during the Christmas season in the USA?
+The best things to do during the Christmas season in the USA include visiting iconic Christmas landmarks, such as the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice skating rink, attending festive events and attractions, such as Walt Disney World's Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, and exploring the unique character and atmosphere of each city, including their festive decorations, lights, and holiday markets.
In conclusion, the USA offers a wide range of exciting destinations to visit during the Christmas season, each with its own unique character and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a classic, traditional experience or a more modern and festive celebration, there’s a city on this list that’s sure to meet your needs. So why not start planning your Christmas trip today and experience the magic of the holiday season in one of these amazing cities?
