Leavenworth Joins New York, Crested Butte, Kennebunkport, and More as the Best Christmas Towns to Visit in the US This Holiday Season

Published on December 15, 2025

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by visiting some of the best Christmas towns across the USA? From snow-covered mountain resorts to quaint coastal gems, the U.S. offers a variety of charming destinations that transform into magical winter wonderlands. Whether you’re seeking festive traditions, Christmas markets, or cozy accommodations, these towns will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Leavenworth, Washington: A Bavarian Holiday Escape

Leavenworth, Washington, often regarded as one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S., is the epitome of a festive, fairy-tale village. Its Bavarian-style architecture, stunning mountain backdrop, and over half a million Christmas lights create an enchanting atmosphere. With holiday events like the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm visit, a Winter Wonderland market, and carolers filling the streets, it’s no wonder this town is a favorite for holiday travelers.

What to Do:

• Holiday Lights Display: Wander through the sparkling streets, which are lit up by over half a million lights.
• Christmas Markets: Experience the Leavenworth Christkindlmarkt, a European-inspired Christmas market.
• Live Carolers and Performances: Join the festive cheer by listening to live performances and carolers across town.

Where to Stay: Posthotel, located in the heart of downtown, offers a luxury experience with its alpine wellness traditions and comfortable accommodations that perfectly complement the festive vibe.

Crested Butte, Colorado: A Winter Sports Wonderland

For those who enjoy the thrill of winter sports, Crested Butte, Colorado, combines picturesque mountain views with holiday cheer. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is famous for its ski slopes, Nordic skiing trails, and dog sledding adventures. During the holiday season, the town becomes even more festive with holiday lights adorning the historic buildings and unique events like the Santa Ski Day where hundreds of skiers and snowboarders dress up as Santa.

What to Do:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy world-class skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort.
• Santa Ski Day: Join the annual tradition of skiing down the mountain in Santa suits.
• Dog Sledding and Ice Fishing: For a different winter experience, try dog sledding or enjoy ice fishing in the surrounding wilderness.

Where to Stay: The Eleven Experience in Crested Butte offers two luxurious lodges – Sopris House and Scarp Ridge Lodge – each with Old West design elements and upscale amenities perfect for a cozy holiday retreat.

New York City: The Big Apple’s Classic Christmas Charm

New York City is synonymous with Christmas magic. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the elaborate window displays along Fifth Avenue, the city offers a holiday experience like no other. Visitors can ice skate at Bryant Park, shop at the famous Christmas markets, and even catch a Broadway show for the perfect holiday experience.

What to Do:

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Witness the world-famous Christmas tree lighting ceremony and take a photo beneath the tree.
• Ice Skating at Bryant Park: Glide across the ice at one of the city’s most picturesque outdoor rinks.
• Holiday Shopping: Don’t miss the famous department store window displays and holiday markets, especially along Fifth Avenue.

Where to Stay: For an unforgettable experience, stay at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, where you can enjoy holiday-themed cocktails and a cozy atmosphere right in the heart of the city.

Kennebunkport, Maine: A Coastal Christmas Classic

Nestled on the picturesque coast of Maine, Kennebunkport is a quintessential New England town that comes alive with holiday spirit. The town’s famous Christmas Prelude event spans 11 days and is filled with festive activities such as lobster trap tree lightings, hat parades, and visits from Santa. With its charming streets, historic inns, and cozy shops, Kennebunkport is the perfect destination for those seeking a cozy, coastal holiday experience.

What to Do:

• Christmas Prelude: Experience 11 days of festive events, including lobster trap tree lightings and parades.
• Holiday Shopping: Explore charming boutiques in the historic downtown area.
• Winter Wildlife Watching: Head out for a wintery coastal walk or take part in bird watching during the off-season.

Where to Stay: The White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection, offers a quintessential East Coast experience with its crackling fireplaces and cozy rooms perfect for a winter getaway.

Bucks County, Pennsylvania: A Historic Holiday Getaway

Bucks County, Pennsylvania, with its scenic countryside and charming historic towns, transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. Highlights of the region include visits to Peddler’s Village, a historic village with over 65 specialty shops, and the Bucks County Playhouse, where you can enjoy festive performances. The area’s historic train rides and gingerbread house displays provide fun activities for the entire family.

What to Do:

• Peddler’s Village: Visit this charming village to shop, dine, and see festive holiday decorations.
• Train Rides in Yardley: Take a historic train ride through the holiday landscape.
• Gingerbread House Displays: Admire the gingerbread house competition and displays.

Where to Stay: The Golden Plough Inn, located in the heart of Peddler’s Village, offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the area’s holiday festivities.

Helen, Georgia: A European-Inspired Christmas Town

Helen, Georgia, might not be in Europe, but it sure looks the part. This Bavarian-style village, nestled in the northeast corner of the state, becomes a true winter wonderland each Christmas. Helen’s streets are lined with twinkling lights, and there’s plenty of festive cheer to go around, from Christmas markets to parades. Helen’s wineries also offer a charming, rustic touch to your holiday experience.

What to Do:

• Bavarian Christmas Village: Explore the Bavarian-inspired shops, adorned with festive decorations.
• Wineries: Visit local wineries to toast the season with holiday-themed wines.
• Parades and Markets: Don’t miss the local Christmas parade or the Christmas markets for unique gifts.

Where to Stay: Dahlonega Inn, located about 40 minutes southwest, offers cozy bed-and-breakfast accommodations in a colonial inn that dates back to 1846.

Santa Fe, New Mexico: A Southwestern Christmas Delight

Santa Fe adds its own flair to the holiday season with its Southwestern traditions. The Canyon Road Farolito Walk, a beloved Christmas Eve tradition, is a must-see as thousands of lanterns light the path through this historic adobe neighborhood. Santa Fe’s markets are filled with handcrafted goods, while the sound of traditional New Mexican music fills the air.

What to Do:

• Canyon Road Farolito Walk: Stroll through the lantern-lit streets filled with holiday spirit.
• Winter Spanish Market: Visit the annual market for handmade arts and crafts.
• Traditional New Mexican Holiday Feasts: Enjoy authentic local food and celebrate the season with loved ones.

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado offers a festive atmosphere with piñon-wood fireplaces and stunning holiday displays.

A Magical Christmas Awaits Across the U.S.

These towns are just a few examples of the festive gems across the United States that offer unparalleled holiday experiences. From the lights of Leavenworth to the festive markets in New York and the snowy landscapes of Crested Butte, there’s no shortage of destinations that capture the magic of Christmas. Plan your next holiday getaway today and immerse yourself in the festive cheer of these iconic Christmas towns.