Amazing Places To Visit In Usa For Christmas
Last Updated on November 2, 2022 by Nicole Hunter
December is a magical time of year in many places in the United States. Christmas festivities are in full swing and you can feel the joy and excitement that this brings. There are beautiful Christmas lights, lively Christmas markets, decorated Christmas trees, and of course, decadent Xmas treats tempting you almost everywhere you go. Some of us live in hot sunny climates and daydream about snowy winter wonderlands filled with sleigh rides, visits to Santa workshops and hot chocolate. While others live in these winter wonderlands and cant wait to discover Christmas delights on beaches, by hotel pools, and while walking in t-shirts and shorts along city streets or country paths. If you are not sure what you want, you have come to the right place. Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA for Christmas.
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Mount Rainier National Park Washington
From Michele of Adventures Abound
Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.
Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round.
Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety ofgreat day hikes just outside of Seattle.
To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.
Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?
Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife.
For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.
Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.
Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.
Mexico Citythe Best Place To Travel Alone In The World
Mexico City might just be my favourite place in the world, period. It is one of the best places in the world to travel to AND also the best place in the world to travel to alone. It is the perfect combination of exhilarating and reflective and has bomb-ass tacos to boot.
If you go seeking some company, Mexico City answers with an epic Couchsurfing scene and amazing hostels. And youre never really alone in this great city. There are too many markets, curious locals, and sneaky mescal bars for that!
Backpacking Mexico is a whirlwind. One minute its lazing about on a sunny Yucatan beach and the next its driving past unmarked graves.
Mexico City is a microcosm of the country. The streets are awash with colour and passion in true Latino style. But if you go looking, there will be some heartbreaking history amongst its alleyways.
Mexico City stands in the shadow of the great Aztec Empires capital. There are hundreds of years of history and the ghosts of Empires past to keep you company in your solo wanderings too.
While youre here, be sure to check out the National Museum. The stories of the last ten thousand years are displayed here and that is certainly something to reflect on.
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Where To Travel In 2022
‘Tis the season to start dreaming of all the trips we want to take next year.
And just like that, another extraordinary year nears its end. In between wrapping up the rest of 2021 with subdued holiday gatherings and quiet champagne toasts at home, the mind inevitably wanders. To what could be in 2022. To the trips we may finally get to check off that bucket list, whether it’s to see the Scottish countryside from a sumptuous train fit for a royal, or to soak in the same ochre-hued New Mexico landscape that so captivated Georgia O’Keeffe for many years. Or to old haunts we just can’t wait to visit again with a fresh perspective and peace of mind. Or to the fabulous new hotels ready to welcome us with superb hospitality and plush digs. These are still uncertain times, but we can dreamand tentatively planfor the future. Below, 17 of the best destinations to put on the travel list for 2022.
READ REVIEWSFour Seasons Resort Lanai
READ REVIEWSSensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort
READ REVIEWSFour Seasons Napa Valley
READ REVIEWSBishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection
READ REVIEWSThe Xara Palace
READ REVIEWSThe Fife Arms
READ REVIEWSCharleston Place, a Belmond Hotel
READ REVIEWSRosewood Villa Magna
Another great option? The European-inspired Bellagio Hotel and Casino, which offers fine dining options such as Le Cirque and the Mayfair Supper Club, and of course is situated near some of the best luxury shopping the world has to offer.
READ REVIEWS Bellagio Hotel & Casino
Lake Tahoe California And Nevada
This is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is also one of the largest and deepest lakes in North America. Lake Tahoe is one of the most visited destinations in the United States, drawing millions of tourists each year who come to explore this incredible place.
The lake itself has an elevation of 6223 feet above sea level at its deepest point and covers an area of 144 square miles .
Lake Tahoe itself is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and enjoying the incredible views. Meanwhile, the area around it is renowned for its outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and fishing.
There are many different places to stay around Lake Tahoe, from camping in the wilderness to luxurious resorts. So, no matter what your budget or preferences are, you will be able to find somewhere to stay that suits you.
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Other Options For Christmas Holidays
Many places in America start preparing for the Christmas holidays with Christmas lights, setting up Xmas trees, and opening Christmas markets in mid to late November. This is an ideal time to travel to enjoy these events without crowds and to take advantage of lower costs from travelling in low season. If you are interested, please take a look at my article 20 Best Places To Visit In USA In November.
For those of you who are looking for a little more adventure with more cost savings, consider visiting Europe. Here are 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe For Christmas.
If you are looking for a warm winter getaway in the United States, you have a lot to choose from! Here are 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway.
Alternatively, if all you dream about is spending your Christmas holidays under blankets of snow in a charming small town or exploring the best snowy winter activities that ski resorts or other destinations have to offer, then take a look at 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands To Visit In The USA.
If you are simply looking for the best Christmas parades in the United States, then check out 15 Best Places To Watch Christmas Parades In USA.
Reed Flute Caves China
TDway / Shutterstock
Chinas Reed Flute Caves are among the nations best places to travel.
The cave system runs for about 240 meters and it has been open for public viewing for more than a thousand years!
As such, its rich in history, intrigue, and fascination.
In modern times, pillars and other cave formations are highlighted by the installation and use of bright colorful lights, which fill the caves with exquisite beauty.
Its the perfect meshing of worlds between the old and the new, and its sure to be a trip you wont forget!
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What Is The Best Vacation Spot In The United States
The largest city in America, New York City, is our top pick for the best vacation destination in the United States due to its variety of entertainment, history, tourist attractions, and culture. As one of the top tourist destinations in the world, New York City is simply a city that is sure to please any type of traveler.
Theme Park And Water Park Vacations
One of the most time-tested family vacation ideas, a theme park vacation is a surefire way to delight everyone in your family. Walt Disney World began celebrating its 50th anniversary with major renovations, new rides, and epic celebrations in 2021, and the party continues into 2022 as well.
At EPCOT, look for the new Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster Journey of Water, a water ride based on the animated film Moana a totally reimagined Spaceship Earth and the new Remys Ratatouille Adventure. At Universal Studios, the new Jurassic World Velocicoaster continues to thrill families as it heads into its second year.
For a Disney vacation, book a stay at one of the Disney World Resort hotels in Orlando for Extra Magic Hours to get in ahead of the crowds. Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge is a perennial favorite with kids, while Disneys Coronado Springs Resort is also extremely family-friendly and comes with a more modest price tag. For a trip centered around the Universal Studios theme parks, families love the affordability, location, and retro-chic vibe of Universals Cabana Bay Beach Resort, one of the many Universal Studios Florida hotels.
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Bali For An Idyllic Holiday
Bali, as they say isnt a destination but a state of mind, and a pretty great one indeed. Bali, an island in Indonesia is one of the best December destinations in the world and if you are wondering about when to visit, then December is a great month to head to this paradise. The luxurious beach resorts and romantic villas make it an ideal honeymoon destination. An island to both relax and have an adventure, Bali is a complete package in itself, and one of the top countries to visit in December.
Places to visit in Bali: Ubud, Kuta, Nusa Dua
Things to shop: Bali batik, coffee and chocolates, wood figures and handicrafts, woven bags
Weather in December: The best time to go to Bali is in December are the weather is amazing
How to reach: Bali has regular flights from various cities in India.
Wyoming Rockies The Rockies Are So Good Theyre The Best Place To Visit In The Usa Like Six Times Over
The Rockies stretch over about 6 different states, so you shouldnt be surprised to hear that these mountains look and feel different in each one. Some people love the Colorado Rockies others swear by the mountains in Montana because, admittedly, Glacier is pretty fuckin rad.
My favorite part of the Rockies though? Wyoming.
First and foremost, two of the best national parks in the USA are located here Yellowstoneand the Grand Tetons. Both are among the top places that every American should see before they die as their scenery has become iconic. Theyre best discovered by foot and with a guide, unless youre an experienced hiker.
What is more representative of the beauty of America than the Grand Prismatic Spring or the Tetons craggy peaks?
The best part of the Wyoming Rockies, better than the Tetons even, is the Wind River Range. This lesser-known area is home to some of the best hikes in the USA, like the stupendous Titcomb Basin. The best part though youre relatively free of the crowds! Id take the Winds over the rest, any day.
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Usa Bucket List: 68 Best Places To Visit In The Us
Home » USA Travel Inspiration » USA Bucket List: 68 Best Places to Visit in the US
Working on your USA bucket list? Well, then youll love this list with the most mind-blowing places to visit in the United States!
Bustling cities, quaint towns, spectacular national parks, lively beaches, and out-of-this-world islands. America is a great country with incredible people and sightsthats a fact.
While there are many popular places to travel in the US, there are a bunch of beautiful places equally impressive, but that doesnt get as much of the bulk of the attention.
Well, thats about to change. Weve put together a list of the best places to visit in the USA in most states. How does that sound?
It was pretty challenging to keep a list of 68 places because the country is dotted with must-visit spots.
Still, these are of the best places to travel in the US, and we genuinely hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed writing it.
Also, we hope this article will sparkle your wanderlust and that youll add many of these places to your USA bucket list.
Where To Go: North Adams Massachusetts
Chosen By:Melissa Klurmantravel expert and contributor at Readers Digest, The Points Guy and Travel Awaits.
Why: I fell in love with this art-infused town in the Berkshires when I first visited MASS MoCA, says Klurman. This contemporary arts center is home to both visual and performing arts and sports massive installations in the roomy former Sprague Electric Company Plant . With 28 buildings spread over 16 acres, theres an enormous amount to see and experienceand eat, too. On the premises are food trucks, an ice cream and coffee shop and a craft brewery. And after a long pandemic hiatus, 2022 brings the return of the live summer shows that the museum complex is known for, says Klurman. First up: Memorial Days Solid Sound Festival headlined by Wilco, featuring multiple stages and several days of live music.
The best spot to stay in North Adams is Porches Inn, a series of mill worker houses transformed into a boutique hotel bed and breakfast. Each room is cozy and uniqueand yes, there are plenty of porches where you can sit and rock, plus theres a nicely landscaped pool out back, says Klurman. New for 2022, Porchess owners have transformed an old Main Street hotel into the hip and affordable Hotel Downstreet, just around the corner from the arts center. Its scheduled to open its doors in April.
The skyline of Jackson, Mississippi.
Courtesy of Visit Jackson
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Places To Go For New Years Eve: Lake Champlain
Tucked up right against the Canadian border, Lake Champlain is an affordable New Year’s destination perfect for nature lovers and people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are plenty of winter activities to keep you entertained during the day popular options include ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and visiting the frozen Ausable Chasm. During the evening, ring in the new year by relaxing with your friends and family in a beautiful rental chalet or by visiting one of the area’s hotels to enjoy dinner and a midnight champagne toast.
Places To Go For New Years Eve: Nashville
With more than 180 recording studios spread throughout the city, Nashville is best known for its incredible music scene. Live music performances can be found somewhere in the city every day of the year, but the events held on New Year’s Eve are really something special. If you’re on a budget, the good news is that one of the best parties here is free to attend held in Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, the New Year’s event put on by the city typically features live music performances by some of the biggest names in country music.
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Places To Go For New Years Eve: Portland Or
Portland has a laidback and welcoming atmosphere that most visitors find irresistible, and it offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities all year long. The temperatures can get quite chilly during the winter, so bundle up and go tubing or ice skating or visit Pioneer Courthouse Square to admire the lights. When the evening comes around, hop aboard a ferry to participate in a dance party on one of the area’s two rivers, or take a more traditional approach and attend one of the celebrations that take place in the city’s many bars, nightclubs, and breweries.
Where To Go: Santa Ynez Valley California
Chosen By: A self-described California girl making her way around the world, Mia Herman is a writer, traveler, eater, drinker and part-time flight attendant. Follow along on her journey at @travelwithmia or travelwithmia.com.
Why: Made famous by the movie Sideways, the Santa Ynez Valley is the buzzing wine region for 2022. Its best known for the Danish-themed village of Solvang, but there are also plenty of other small towns connected by rural roads, sprawling farms and vineyardsall just two hours north of Los Angeles. The Santa Ynez Valley feels like classic California wine country, but with a more laid-back, approachable vibe, says Herman. Its less crowded than the other wine regions and still feels like an undiscovered secret, making it the perfect go-to for new wine enthusiasts and devoted wine lovers alike.
Besides the wine, the food here is spectacular. Many chefs moved to the area in recent years, and this influx of diverse artistry coupled with the chef-inspired local agriculture allows the Santa Ynez Valley to rival any metropolitan city, says Herman, who calls the smoked brisket sammie at Industrial Eats in Buellton a dont miss. Other essential stops: Casa Dumetz Wines, Babis Beer Emporium and SAMA in Los Alamos, which is worth the trip in and of itself.
The new Sensei Porcupine Creek in Palm Springs.
Tanveer Badal Photography / TANV
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