As the holiday season approaches, cities across the United States are gearing up to showcase their unique Christmas festivities. There’s no shortage of holiday cheer, from twinkling lights to festive markets. However, with inflation looming over holiday budgets, finding affordable yet magical destinations is more important than ever. Here are the top 10 cities in the U.S. for a memorable Christmas this year.
1. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh radiates holiday magic with enchanting traditions. The city’s highlights include performances of A Musical Christmas Carol and the breathtaking Phipps Holiday Magic Winter Flower Show and Light Garden.
Families can visit Santa’s house at Heinz Hall Courtyard, where children can choose to meet either a Black or White Santa. For holiday shopping, the People’s Gas Holiday Market and Handmade Arcade offer distinctive gifts and festive treats.
2. Atlanta, Georgia
Known as the best city for Christmas, Atlanta transforms into a festive paradise each holiday season. The city’s markets, including the Indie Craft Experience Holiday Shopping Spectacular and Atlantic Station Makers Market, offer unique gifts for every shopper.
Visitors can ice skate under sparkling lights at Centennial Olympic Park or enjoy the Atlanta Ballet’s iconic performance of The Nutcracker. For a hands-on experience, Sweet Auburn Curb Market’s biscuit-making classes are a delicious addition to the holiday spirit.
3. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s festive charm includes holiday markets, gingerbread villages, and winter beer festivals. Despite its reputation for high costs, the city offers many discounted and free attractions during the season.
The Winter Festival & Crafts Fair at Phinney Center and the Gingerbread Village at Sheraton Grand are must-visit spots for holiday enthusiasts.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s holiday traditions include the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a dazzling parade that ushers in the Christmas spirit. Ice skating at Millennium Park and exploring boutique shops for gifts are quintessential activities.
Dining at the historic Walnut Room inside Macy’s on State Street is the perfect way to conclude a festive day in the Windy City.
5. Orlando, Florida
Orlando, renowned for its theme parks, becomes a winter wonderland each December. From dazzling light displays to a 30-foot golden Christmas tree, the city’s holiday attractions are second to none.
While Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are major draws, visitors can also enjoy free or budget-friendly events such as festive parades and community light displays. Orlando’s Tree Lighting Celebration kicks off the season in style.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas embraces the holiday season with vibrant festivities and over-the-top decorations. Boasting the most gift shops, toy stores, and hobby shops per capita, the city is a shopper’s paradise.
Popular attractions include the Ice Skating Rink at The Cosmopolitan and Enchant at the Ballpark. Visitors are encouraged to book dining reservations early, as venues fill up quickly during the holidays.
7. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s holiday charm includes iconic cable cars adorned with wreaths and glittering lights. Union Square serves as the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations, with festive displays, ice skating, and historic department stores.
Visitors can also enjoy unique traditions, such as sugar castles at the Westin St. Francis and the citywide SantaCon event. Be prepared for occasional rain and chilly weather during your visit.
8. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis lights up the holiday season with twinkling displays and pop-up bars serving creative cocktails. Kiener Plaza’s Winterfest offers ice skating, s’more stations, and igloos beneath 100,000 lights.
The city also boasts unique performances, such as Million Dollar Quartet Christmas, a rock-and-roll holiday show. Even Santa gets in on the fun, trading his sleigh for a riverboat cruise.
9. Miami, Florida
Miami adds a tropical twist to Christmas with palm trees decked in holiday lights and events like NightGarden’s spectacular displays. Families can enjoy unique experiences, from holiday markets to concerts.
Though Santa’s Enchanted Forest is temporarily closed, the city promises new surprises for visitors seeking festive fun.
10. Birmingham, Alabama
Dubbed the “Magic City,” Birmingham shines bright during the holidays. Highlights include the Walk Through Nativity at Briarwood Presbyterian Church and drive-through light displays like Lights of Noel.
For a nostalgic experience, the Alabama Theatre’s Holiday Film Series and Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop are beloved local traditions.
Whether you prefer skating under the stars, sipping holiday cocktails, or finding one-of-a-kind gifts, these cities offer something for everyone. This Christmas, make your celebrations unforgettable by exploring one of these festive destinations.
