New York joins Washington, Chicago, Asheville, Orlando and more as the top destinations in US for Christmas 2025-Ultimate Travel Guide You Need To Know!

Published on December 12, 2025

Christmas travel across the United States is rapidly gearing up as millions prepare for holiday journeys, festive celebrations, and winter experiences. Official sources from the U.S. government and tourism bodies have released up‑to‑date tips, safety guidance, and destination highlights to help travellers plan unforgettable Christmas holidays. With a renewed focus on safety, advanced planning, and cultural experiences, this season’s travel outlook blends tradition with practical guidance based on government‑recommended travel resources.

Here are some more places in the USA where Christmas is celebrated in grand style, offering unique experiences and festive charm:

Washington DC, Washington

In the heart of the nation’s capital, the National Christmas Tree lighting stands as a signature holiday event that draws visitors from across the country. Organised through partnerships with the National Park Service and foundations supporting national parks, this annual celebration takes place at President’s Park and features thousands of lights and decorative displays. The festive tradition reflects decades of national celebration and offers travelers a unique cultural draw during the Christmas season.

Visitors to Washington DC can also explore seasonal exhibitions such as holiday conservatory displays, cultural performances, and family‑friendly attractions at venues designed to celebrate winter festive spirits directly within the capital. Here are some of the top things you can do in Washington DC:

1. Visit the National Christmas Tree

The National Christmas Tree, located in President’s Park near the White House, is a must-see attraction. Each year, the tree is beautifully decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, surrounded by smaller trees representing each state. The Tree Lighting Ceremony in early December is a major event that attracts visitors from across the nation.

2. Ice Skate at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Skating in the heart of Washington D.C. at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden offers a picturesque holiday experience. The outdoor rink is surrounded by beautiful sculptures and festive lights, creating a magical winter atmosphere. It’s a popular activity for locals and tourists alike during the holiday season.

3. Explore the Holiday Lights at ZooLights

The Smithsonian National Zoo hosts its annual ZooLights event, where the zoo is transformed into a glowing winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights. The event also features seasonal music, hot chocolate, and animal-themed light displays, creating a festive experience for families.

4. Take a Stroll Through the U.S. Botanic Garden’s Holiday Display

The U.S. Botanic Garden offers a stunning Holiday Display during the Christmas season. Visitors can explore the conservatory, which is filled with beautiful holiday-themed plant displays and miniature replicas of D.C. landmarks made entirely of plant materials. It’s a peaceful and beautiful way to celebrate the season indoors.

5. Visit the White House Holiday Decorations

The White House opens its doors for special holiday tours, showcasing the presidential residence’s grand decorations, including Christmas trees, wreaths, and gingerbread houses. While public tours are limited, you can still admire the outside decorations, which are beautifully illuminated at night.

New York City, New York

• Famous Attractions: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, ice skating at Bryant Park, holiday windows along Fifth Avenue, and the Christmas markets at Union Square.
• What to Expect: New York City is synonymous with Christmas magic. With its iconic tree lighting, elaborate store window displays, and bustling holiday markets, it’s a must-see for festive travelers.

Here’s a list of top things to do in NYC during the Christmas season:

1. Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most famous holiday landmarks in the world. Its massive, beautifully lit tree, towering at over 75 feet, is a must-see. Don’t forget to ice skate at the famous rink beneath the tree for a true NYC Christmas experience.

2. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, featuring the world-famous Rockettes, is a beloved annual tradition. The show is full of festive music, dancing, and holiday cheer, making it a perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

3. Explore the Holiday Windows and Light Displays

The department store windows on Fifth Avenue are transformed into magical holiday displays. Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and other retailers create elaborate windows that tell enchanting Christmas stories. The lights and displays in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, are also a must-see for their stunning holiday decor.

4. Stroll Through Central Park

Central Park looks like a winter wonderland during Christmas. Whether covered in snow or adorned with festive lights, it’s the perfect place for a winter stroll. You can also enjoy ice skating at Wollman Rink, a classic NYC activity.

5. Attend the Christmas Eve Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, located on Fifth Avenue, holds a beautiful Christmas Eve Mass that is open to the public. The stunning Gothic architecture and the Christmas service create a serene and spiritual experience.

6. Visit the Christmas Markets

New York City hosts several Christmas markets, including the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. These markets offer unique gifts, handmade crafts, seasonal food, and warm drinks, perfect for holiday shopping and enjoying festive treats.

Asheville, North Carolina

• Famous Attractions: Biltmore Estate Christmas celebrations, the National Gingerbread House Competition, and the Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum.
• What to Expect: Asheville offers a cozy, mountain-town feel, with the grand Biltmore Estate transforming into a Christmas wonderland each year. The city also boasts festive events like gingerbread house displays and winter lights.

Here are some of the best things to do in Asheville during the Christmas season:

1. Explore the Biltmore Estate Christmas Celebration

The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately owned home, hosts one of the most spectacular Christmas celebrations in the country. Visitors can walk through elaborately decorated rooms featuring elegant holiday décor, towering Christmas trees, and festive floral displays. The estate’s gardens and grounds are illuminated with twinkling lights at night, creating a breathtaking winter scene. Additionally, special candlelight tours and holiday dining options enrich the experience.

2. Visit the National Gingerbread House Competition

Every year, the National Gingerbread House Competition takes place in Asheville, attracting talented bakers from around the world. The historic Grove Park Inn hosts this event, where stunning and intricate gingerbread creations—often several feet tall—are displayed for public viewing. It’s a whimsical and family‑friendly attraction that adds a creative twist to holiday traditions.

3. Wander Through Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum’s Winter Lights display offers a dazzling evening attraction. The gardens are transformed with thousands of lights, illuminated sculptures, and themed installations that loop through miles of pathways. Visitors can walk or drive through the display, enjoying music, festive décor, and seasonal treats along the route.

4. Stroll Downtown Asheville’s Holiday Streetlights

Downtown Asheville embraces the season with charming streetlights and holiday décor that illuminate the city’s vibrant arts district. Local shops feature holiday window displays, and the atmosphere buzzes with live music, seasonal treats, and festive energy. It’s a great way to explore local boutiques, craft stores, and cozy cafes while soaking in holiday cheer.

5. Attend Holiday Events and Concerts

Asheville’s holiday calendar is filled with special performances and concerts throughout December. The Asheville Symphony, Appalachian ensembles, and local theatre groups often present seasonal shows ranging from classic carols to Christmas orchestral performances. These events provide cultural and musical enjoyment for visitors of all ages.

Chicago, Illinois

• Famous Attractions: Christkindlmarket (German Christmas market), ice skating at Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
• What to Expect: Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is one of the largest and most beloved German-style Christmas markets in the country. The city’s towering skyline provides the perfect backdrop for its holiday celebrations.Here’s a detailed list of the best things to do in Chicago during Christmas:

1. Visit the Christkindlmarket

Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is one of the most beloved German‑style Christmas markets in the United States. Held in Daley Plaza (and sometimes additional locations), this festive market features handcrafted ornaments, traditional foods like bratwurst and pretzels, warm mulled wine (Glühwein), artisanal gifts, and live music. It’s perfect for holiday shopping and soaking in European‑inspired yuletide charm.

2. Ice Skate at Millennium Park

The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With the city skyline as a backdrop and the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) nearby, ice skating here is a quintessential Chicago winter experience. Skate rentals are available on site.

3. See the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Each November, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling parade and lighting ceremony along Michigan Avenue. Over one million lights illuminate the trees lining the street, and this event officially ushers in Chicago’s Christmas festivities with entertainment, fireworks, and seasonal spirit.

4. Explore Lincoln Park ZooLights

Lincoln Park ZooLights is a family‑friendly holiday light show that turns the zoo into a vibrant winter landscape after dark. Millions of LED lights illuminate animal sculptures, pathways and trees, and there are seasonal treats, music, and photo opportunities throughout the zoo — all free of charge.

5. Holiday Windows & Festive Shopping

Chicago’s major department stores — including Macy’s on State Street, Water Tower Place, and shops along the Magnificent Mile — decorate their windows with elaborate holiday displays. Strolling past these sparkly scenes is a classic festive activity.

6. Attend a Seasonal Performance

Chicago’s performing arts scene offers unforgettable holiday shows such as:

• The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker — A Chicago holiday tradition with beautiful choreography and music.
• Holiday concerts by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or local choirs.
  These performances capture the spirit of Christmas with music and dance.

Orlando, Florida

• Famous Attractions: Walt Disney World’s Christmas celebrations, Universal Orlando’s holiday events, and SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.
• What to Expect: Orlando offers a magical experience for families, with all the major theme parks transforming into holiday wonderlands. The Disney Christmas celebrations, Universal’s holiday festivities, and SeaWorld’s holiday parades are highlights.

Here’s a list of things to do in Orlando during Christmas:

1. Visit Walt Disney World’s Christmas Celebrations

Walt Disney World is one of the best places in Orlando to celebrate Christmas. The Magic Kingdom is transformed into a winter wonderland with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, where guests can enjoy a special parade, fireworks, holiday-themed snacks, and a snow‑falling street. Other Disney parks, like Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, also offer festive events, such as special performances, holiday decorations, and themed rides.

2. Enjoy the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando’s Holidays at Universal Studios brings Christmas cheer to the theme park with Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure, featuring live performances, the Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular, and festive decorations. Universal Studios hosts Macy’s Holiday Parade, featuring giant balloons, festive floats, and appearances by beloved holiday characters. Don’t forget the Christmas decorations throughout the park, which add to the festive ambiance.

3. Ice Skate at the RDV Sportsplex

The RDV Sportsplex Ice Den offers a classic holiday experience with indoor ice skating, making it one of the only places in Orlando where you can enjoy skating. The rink is open to both beginners and experienced skaters and is beautifully decorated for the holidays. It’s perfect for families looking for a fun, wintery activity.

4. Explore the Christmas Lights at Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens becomes a holiday wonderland with a stunning display of Christmas lights. The gardens are adorned with thousands of lights that create a magical atmosphere. It’s a peaceful and beautiful way to experience the holiday season surrounded by nature.

5. See the Christmas Lights at Disney Springs

Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney) is home to spectacular holiday decorations and lights. You can enjoy a stroll through the outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, which features themed Christmas trees, holiday performances, and festive decor. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some last-minute Christmas shopping.

These destinations are sure to make your Christmas experience in the US truly special. Each location offers something unique, from historical charm to snow-filled adventures, ensuring you find the perfect place to celebrate the season.