Have you ever wanted to take your family on a magical Christmas getaway but felt overwhelmed by all the options?
Between juggling school break schedules, holiday shopping, and family traditions, planning a festive trip can seem like too much.
But visiting a Christmas town is the perfect way to soak in the holiday spirit, create lasting memories, and let someone else handle the seasonal magic for a bit!
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best Christmas towns in the US for families, featuring enchanting lights, fun activities, and seasonal traditions that will wow kids and adults alike.
1. Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is like stepping into a snow globe with its Bavarian-inspired village and festive atmosphere.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- The entire town is covered in dazzling lights and Christmas decorations.
- Enjoy sledding, horse-drawn carriage rides, and an outdoor ice rink.
- Kids will love meeting Santa at the Christmas Lighting Festival.
Pro Tip: Arrive early on festival weekends to find parking and grab a spot for the lighting ceremony.
2. North Pole, Alaska
Yes, there’s an actual town called North Pole, and it’s as magical as it sounds.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Santa Claus House, where kids can meet Santa and see his reindeer.
- Candy cane-themed streetlights and festive town decor.
- Opportunity to see the northern lights for an unforgettable family memory.
Pro Tip: Dress warmly—temperatures can get extremely cold, but the magic is worth it!
3. McAdenville, North Carolina (Christmas Town USA)
This small town lives up to its nickname with an incredible display of holiday cheer.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Over 500,000 lights illuminate the town, making it a spectacular sight.
- Free drive-through light displays are perfect for families with little ones.
- A charming small-town vibe that feels cozy and welcoming.
Pro Tip: Visit on weeknights to avoid heavy crowds during the Christmas season.
4. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Known as “Christmas City,” Bethlehem is rich in holiday traditions and charm.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Christkindlmarkt, a German-style Christmas market with crafts, food, and live music.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic district.
- Festive decorations and family-friendly events throughout the town.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets for Christkindlmarkt early—it’s a popular event!
5. Frankenmuth, Michigan
This Bavarian-inspired town offers year-round Christmas spirit, but it shines brightest during the holidays.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.
- Festive horse-drawn carriage rides and holiday lights.
- Unique German-style dining experiences the whole family will enjoy.
Pro Tip: Plan extra time for Bronner’s—it’s massive, and your kids will love exploring.
6. Orlando, Florida
If snow isn’t your thing, Orlando offers warm-weather holiday magic with plenty of festive cheer.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Disney World is a can’t-miss experience.
- Universal Orlando’s holiday celebrations include a Grinchmas show kids will love.
- ICON Park and Leu Gardens often feature festive lights and events.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of holiday packages that bundle park tickets with festive extras.
7. Woodstock, Vermont
This classic New England town is a picturesque winter wonderland during the holidays.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Wassail Weekend features horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, and a holiday parade.
- Quaint shops and cafes decked out in holiday decor.
- Easy access to sledding and other snowy activities nearby.
Pro Tip: Book lodging early—this charming town fills up quickly during the holidays.
8. Grapevine, Texas (The Christmas Capital of Texas)
Grapevine is packed with holiday activities, making it a top destination for Christmas-loving families.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- The North Pole Express train ride features hot cocoa, Christmas carols, and Santa.
- Hundreds of events, including the Parade of Lights and live performances.
- Millions of lights and festive decorations across the town.
Pro Tip: Reserve tickets for the North Pole Express as soon as they go on sale—it’s wildly popular.
9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah offers a unique southern twist on Christmas celebrations with mild weather and historic charm.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- Holiday lights tours through the city’s historic district.
- Savannah Holly Days feature family-friendly events like ice skating and tree lighting.
- Festive riverboat cruises with seasonal music and treats.
Pro Tip: Take a walking tour to experience the city’s decorated squares up close.
10. New York City, New York
No one does Christmas quite like New York City, where the holidays come alive with iconic decorations and endless family activities.
Why It’s Great for Families:
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating rink are must-sees.
- The Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes is a family favorite.
- Explore holiday markets like Bryant Park’s Winter Village or shop window displays on Fifth Avenue.
Pro Tip: Visit in early December or weekdays to avoid the heaviest crowds.
The best Christmas towns in the US for families offer a little something for everyone, from snowy mountain villages to warm southern charm. Whether you’re exploring the magical streets of Leavenworth, shopping for treasures in Bethlehem, or soaking in the holiday magic of New York City, these towns are sure to make your family’s holiday season unforgettable.
