Best Small Towns to Visit for Christmas
While some families cherish quiet holidays at home, others crave the enchantment of a town that transforms completely for the season. If your hometown’s holiday decorations consist of a few half-hearted string lights, it might be time to venture somewhere that takes Christmas seriously.
Across America, charming small towns pull out all the stops each December, creating winter wonderlands that rival the North Pole itself. Picture this: historic Main Streets blanketed in twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriage rides, bustling Christmas markets, and parades so festive they’ll have even the Grinchiest family member humming carols. These aren’t just towns with decorations; they’re destinations where Christmas becomes an immersive experience.
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Best Christmas Towns to Visit This Year
1. St. Augustine, Florida
Unlike most Christmas towns on this list, St. Augustine offers plenty of sunshine and mild winter weather. You won’t need to pack layers of clothing if you’re planning on visiting this colorful Christmas town.
St. Augustine has plenty of holiday cheer, complete with an annual Nights of Lights Festival. Blocks of the Historic District are draped with sparkling Christmas lights and all the holiday cheer your inner child desires.
Best of all? The festival is free, so you won’t need to book tickets in advance. If you don’t want to walk, take a horse-drawn carriage, a train ride, or go on a boat tour to see the show from the water.
Where to stay in St. Augustine
It doesn’t get any cuter than the Anastasia Grand #3, located within walking distance of the Night of Lights. This fully renovated 1920s luxury apartment has stunning decor. Lucky for you, it is within walking distance to the historic downtown area as well as the beach.
The property offers complimentary bikes to explore Anastasia Blvd and you can check out the local eateries, a craft brewery, and live music venues.
2. Solvang, California
Looking for a “Christmassy” town that goes all out for the holidays? Then visit the tiny village of Solvang. The streets are lined with authentic Danish architecture. Think thatched roofs, picturesque windmills, twinkling Christmas lights, candlelight tours, and the charming Julefest parade.
Solvang is so magical, it feels festive all year long. Enjoy the northern European cuisine, and make sure to join in on a city-wide hunt where people will be keeping an eye for the elusive Solvang Nisse, which are elf-like Danish creatures. Find as many as you can and you’ll win incredible holiday prizes.
Where to stay in Solvang
Get blown away by this luxurious farmhouse-style retreat. The Anavo Farm’s Chic Sheep Retreat is nestled in the heart of wine country, in the peaceful and quiet village of Ballard. Wake up and have breakfast while you listen to sheep, roosters, and horses, roaming free in acres of green land.
The hosts allow guests to feed the sheep so if your kids are major animal lovers, they might never want to go home!
3. Blue Ridge, Georgia
The highlight of Blue Ridge’s Christmas celebration is the beloved Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Santa Express, where families can enjoy a magical train journey through the picturesque Chattahoochee National Forest. Kids will be delighted to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus aboard the vintage train while sipping hot cocoa and singing Christmas carols.
Downtown Blue Ridge comes alive with twinkling lights, festive window displays, and unique boutiques perfect for holiday shopping. Don’t miss the annual Christmas parade and the lighting ceremony of the town’s Christmas tree. The charming downtown area also features local artisan shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants where you can warm up with Southern comfort food after a day of exploring.
Where to stay in Blue Ridge
The Toccoa Lodge is a stunning, spacious retreat set on 7 acres of private land, boasting 1,200 feet of serene riverfront along the Toccoa River. Relax in the expansive hot tub, unwind on multiple patio decks, or try your hand at fishing for trophy trout along the river’s edge—all while soaking in the picturesque views.
Located just minutes from downtown Blue Ridge yet feeling worlds away, The Toccoa Lodge combines upscale amenities with breathtaking scenery, creating an experience you’ll want to return to again and again!
4. Park City, Utah
Park City is the ultimate winter wonderland. Surrounded by mountains and pine trees, this picturesque oasis looks like a picture-perfect Christmas postcard.
Aside from the outdoor Christmas lights and holiday markets you’ve come to expect, you’re in for a real treat during the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade, where snowboarders and skiers lead Santa to town by coming down the mountain with their torches.
Where to stay in Park City
Grab the whole family and hide from the world in The Luxe Chalet at Old Town. This massive 3-bedroom 3.5-bath home is steps away from the slopes at Park City Mountain Resort and the dining and shopping on Historic Main Street.
Nearby bus stops will take you to Deer Valley, Park City, or Canyons Ski Resorts. After a day at the slopes, come back and play games with the family, watch a movie, or spend some time in the Jacuzzi.
Looking for other places to ski this winter? Don’t miss these best ski resorts to visit for Christmas!
5. Duluth, Minnesota
A Christmas village set up right in front of the fabulous Glensheen mansion is just one of the things that await you in Duluth. But the real reason why thousands of tourists come to this Christmassy city is to experience the Bentleyville “Tour of Lights,” a walk-through, colorful tour of lights on the shores of Lake Superior that’s decorated with over 4 million lights. You truly have to see it to believe it. And it’s free!
Where to stay in Duluth
Stay in the magnificent condo in the same building as the Blacklist Brewing Co. and tap room. It has stunning views of Lake Superior and Canal Park. Duluth’s Lake Walk is directly behind the building, and a pedestrian bridge connects you to the park. Walk to nearby restaurants, or go for a hike along beautiful Lake Superior.
Check out some of these other places to celebrate Christmas in the Midwest!
6. Leavenworth, Washington
Visit this mountain town known for its Bavarian-style architecture that will make you feel like you’re in Europe. Experience the usual lighting ceremonies and sleigh rides you’ve come to expect from a Christmas town.
In Leavenworth, you’ll also get to visit a reindeer farm where you can take a photo with Santa and pet a few friendly reindeer. You also get some complimentary cocoa and cookies too, so double score! If you are planning a trip, don’t miss this Leavenworth Christmas guide!
Where to stay in Leavenworth
Make the German holiday experience complete with a stay at Bavarian Lodge. Styled with Bavarian-inspired decor, mountain or village views are featured in each guest room. The property’s central location makes for easy access to local shops and restaurants.
7. Bernville, Pennsylvania
Bernville’s population of under 1,000 may be small, but one family sure knows how to celebrate the holidays, and they want you to join in on the fun.
What started out as Christmas decorations for the Koziar family back in 1948 has turned into the Koziar’s Christmas Village, one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania. And as a visitor, you’ll get to enjoy the various displays of holiday lights throughout the 8-acre property.
Where to stay in Bernville
There are several hotels to choose from in Reading, which is about 15 minutes from Bernville by car.
8. Franklin, Tennessee
Take a trip to Franklin, Tennessee this holiday season and enjoy Dickens of a Christmas, a fabulous two-day event that recreates the time of Charles Dickens. You’ll be able to see tons of people dressed as characters from various Charles Dickens stories, as well as dancers and musicians. As long as you’re here, you might as well take advantage of the carriage rides and the Victorian Christmas Village.
Where to stay in Franklin
The Harpeth Hotel is a luxury boutique property in the heart of Franklin. There are standard rooms as well as suites, and the property is pet-friendly. Amenities include a restaurant, coffee bar, fitness center, and occasional live music. This is the perfect spot for celebrating the holidays in Franklin!
9. Helen, Georgia
Transform your Christmas into an Alpine adventure in Helen, a charming Bavarian-themed village in the North Georgia mountains. The entire town looks like it was straight out of a Hallmark movie, with its timber buildings, cobblestone streets, and festive decorations.
During the holiday season, Helen hosts the Christmas Parade and Lighting where the town square comes alive with carolers, and holiday cheer. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride or warm up with hot cocoa while browsing the unique Christmas shops along Main Street.
Where to stay in Helen
Fairfield By Marriott Inn & Suites Cornelia offers comfortable rooms and free breakfast. It’s the perfect basecamp for families exploring Helen’s Christmas festivities.
10. Woodstock, Vermont
Experience a classic New England Christmas in Woodstock, where historic covered bridges, colonial architecture, and snow-dusted mountains create a storybook setting. This Vermont town is home to the famous Wassail Weekend, a beloved tradition featuring caroling, sleigh rides, and holiday markets.
The Billings Farm & Museum hosts special holiday programs where kids can meet farm animals, learn about Victorian Christmas traditions, and even meet Santa. Don’t miss the stunning Christmas lights on the village green and a chance to warm up with maple hot chocolate.
Where to stay in Woodstock
The Woodstock Inn & Resort is a historic property offering elegant rooms, an indoor pool, and a world-class spa. Located right on the village green, you’ll be steps away from all the holiday festivities.
11. Fredericksburg, Texas
Celebrate Christmas in Texas with a twist in Fredericksburg, a charming Hill Country town known for its German heritage and small-town hospitality. The Fredericksburg Christmas Pyramid stands 26 feet tall in Marktplatz. Inspired by traditional German holiday pyramids, its holiday scenes delight visitors.
Take a stroll on Main Street and discover over 100 specialty shops, bakeries, and wine tasting rooms all decked out for the holidays. The town’s Christmas Nights of Lights features millions of lights throughout downtown, and you can enjoy live Christmas concerts, holiday markets, and authentic German cuisine at local restaurants.
Where to stay in Fredericksburg
Book a stay at one of Fredericksburg’s many charming bed and breakfasts on Main Street, where you’ll be within walking distance of all the action. Many properties feature historic architecture, cozy fireplaces, and Hill Country hospitality that will make your Christmas extra special.
Don’t miss these other places in the US to celebrate Christmas!
