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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Christmas holds a special place in the hearts of all Americans. As December arrives, people are busy putting down Halloween decorations and replacing them with Christmas ornaments.
However, this holiday season is not all about decorating our homes. Beyond that, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to strengthen your relationships with family and significant others by taking a vacation together to new and exciting destinations.
So, if you’re looking for some of the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA, here are several recommended destinations from Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, and Travel + Leisure. Get ready for a magical festivity this year!
1. Aspen, Colorado
Perhaps you’re after a holiday destination with a mountain backdrop; look no further than Aspen, Colorado. This small town charms visitors with the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Book one of the Sky Residences at W Aspen to enjoy unparalleled mountainscapes from a bird's-eye view.
A leisurely stroll along Cooper Avenue will lead you to a variety of enjoyable activities, including cookie exchanges and s'mores roasting.
2. New York City, New York
Every year and season, there’s basically no “bad” time to visit New York City. The so-called Big Apple is even more enchanting as snow covers the whole city.
You don’t want to miss the Christmas tree of the Rockefeller Center, as it’s one of the city’s most popular attractions during the holiday season. This year’s Christmas tree is from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and features a whopping amount of over 50,000 multicolored LED lights, enough to emit winter illuminations.
3. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Perhaps you’re looking forward to catching all the holiday spirits; a visit to the town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania is a must, especially the Winter Light Spectacular. Held at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, this event invites you to admire the dazzling installations of over a million lights as you explore the whole zoo.
4. Denver, Colorado
Denver promises you a magical Christmas with tons of exciting things it has. While you can enjoy winter illuminations at the Denver Zoo Lights, spare some time for ice skating or shopping downtown.
Speaking of shopping, the Denver Christkindlmarket, a German-style holiday market, returns this season with an array of local and European craft and food vendors. Don’t forget to stop by the Mile High Tree, which is somehow only 110 feet tall despite its name, at the 16th Street Mall.
5. Branson, Missouri
The city of Branson, Missouri, suddenly transforms into a Christmas wonderland as winter approaches. This place promises the ultimate holiday experience with its Silver Dollar City theme park, a Polar Express train ride, and other amazing activities.
In case you love Christmas trees so much, embark on a tour of more than 100 of Branson’s most striking Christmas trees.
6. Ogunquit, Maine
Outside winter, the town of Ogunquit in Maine serves as the ideal gateway for a coastal escape. However, despite the air turning colder, Ogunquit remains popular, especially for its laid-back atmosphere and lower prices.
Intrigued to celebrate the holiday season by the shore? Engage in the Christmas by the Sea festival, where you can join the bonfire on the beach or visit Santa.
7. Natchitoches, Los Angeles
Natchitoches in Los Angeles guarantees an unparalleled Christmas experience. The city is home to the renowned six-week Natchitoches Christmas Festival. Can be found throughout the downtown district and along Cane River Lake, the festival captivates visitors with its parade, live music, fireworks, and, of course, the sets of holiday lights.
8. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is synonymous with Christmas festivities. The city is perfect for holiday shopping and feasting your eyes with winter displays. The Biltmore Estate is technically the best place to enjoy the latter since you’ll be greeted by 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 lights.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
While Las Vegas is known for its casinos, check out the city as December comes. Las Vegas is easily among the best places to visit during Christmas in the USA, as it offers thrilling rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and showcases a massive 42-foot Christmas tree at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Don’t call it a night in Las Vegas before catching the iconic fountain display at the Fountains of Bellagio. Be prepared to get bewitched by the magical dance of water, accompanied by the enchanting melody of "Santa Baby" in the background.
10. Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s Walt Disney World is a must-visit, especially during Christmas. The theme park celebrates the holiday season with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, where you can enjoy a Christmas-themed fireworks show.
Then, head to Universal Orlando to immerse yourself in the dreamier-than-ever The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Down for more Christmassy spirits? How about a trip to some Christmas towns around the globe? Our article on the best Christmas towns in the world can be your guide.
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